After winning the race once on the track at Spa, the International Court of Appeal will assess whether a stewards' ruling stripping him of the win should be reversed.
Not for the first time in Formula One's recent tarnished history has such an unsatisfactory conclusion to an event been deployed.
But 48 hours after Hamilton was demoted from first to third on the back of a retrospective 25-second drive-through penalty, McLaren have decided to pursue an appeal.
The trouble is, no-one is exactly sure if there is a case to answer as Article 152 of the FIA's International Sporting Code states a drive-through penalty is 'not susceptible to appeal'.
McLaren will contend there are exceptional circumstances in this instance, and if they convince the ICA of such a fact, they will then seek to overturn the stewards' decision.
This latest affair centres around an incident at the end of lap 42 of what was a thrilling 44-lap race as the stewards deemed Hamilton 'cut a corner and gained an advantage'.
After attempting to pass Kimi Raikkonen around the outside on entry to the final chicane, Hamilton was forced to cut the corner.
Returning to the Spa track along the pit straight, the 23-year-old temporarily held the lead before correctly handing it back.
Timing sheets indicate Raikkonen crossed the start-finish line 0.6 seconds ahead of Hamilton, with further data showing the latter was also six kilometres per hour slower at that point.
Hamilton then filed behind Raikkonen, before legitimately passing Ferrari's reigning world champion again on the run down to the first corner La Source hairpin.
In wet conditions, the lead then changed hands twice more on the penultimate lap prior to Raikkonen spinning into a wall, handing Hamilton a win that was taken away by the stewards two hours later.
Describing the incident, Hamilton said: "In the closing stages of the race I was catching Kimi consistently, lap by lap, and with three laps remaining I got close enough to attempt to overtake him on the entry to the last chicane.
"I managed to get slightly ahead of him in the braking area for the first apex of the chicane.
"He fought back approaching the second apex, but, in doing so, he left no room for me on the inside line.
"The only way for me to avoid a collision was therefore to cut inside the second apex.
"I came out of the second apex in front of Kimi and so I momentarily lifted-off on the straight, to ensure Kimi got back in front.
"The team also came on the radio and instructed me to allow Kimi to re-pass, which I had already done. As a result, Kimi crossed the start-finish line ahead of me, and 6.7kmh quicker than me.
"After allowing Kimi to completely re-pass, I crossed from the left side of the track to the right side of the track, passing behind Kimi in the process.
"I then attacked Kimi on the inside of the first corner and successfully outbraked him."
If McLaren successfully argue their right to appeal, their case to reverse the result will then be strengthened by the apparent claim of race director Charlie Whiting.
McLaren F1 CEO Martin Whitmarsh said: "From the pit wall, we asked Race Control to confirm they were comfortable Lewis had allowed Kimi to re-pass.
"They confirmed twice that they believed the position had been given back in a manner that was 'okay'.
"If Race Control had instead expressed any concern regarding Lewis's actions at that time, we would have instructed Lewis to allow Kimi to re-pass for a second time."
The decision of the stewards - Nicholas Deschaux, Surinder Thatti and Yves Bacquelaine - has since caused uproar.
It has prompted leading figures such as three-times champions Niki Lauda and Sir Jackie Stewart to berate their verdict.
It has also fed the long-held theory that the world governing body, the FIA, are pro-Ferrari and anti-McLaren.
That has since been strenuously denied by one of the stewards, Kenyan Thatti, who said: "There was no conspiracy against anybody, McLaren included.
"We acted professionally and within the FIA rules."
But Formula One fans are up in arms, with even an internet petition available to sign that up until 5pm on Tuesday had attracted 23,000 signatures in just 36 hours, with the aim to present it to the FIA.
Contrast that with a petition calling for the removal of Mike Ashley and Dennis Wise from Newcastle United that has so far only attracted just over 5,000 signatures.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
McLaren set out on road to court
The team have confirmed they had lodged notice to appeal the 25-second penalty, which resulted in Hamilton's finishing place being downgraded from first to third by race stewards.
Now the case will be put before the International Court of Appeal.
Amazingly, though, confusion reigns over whether or not the FIA even have a case to answer due to Article 152 of the governing body's International Sporting Code which states a drive-through penalty is 'not susceptible to appeal'.
McLaren will contend there are exceptional circumstances in this instance, and if they convince the ICA of such a fact, they will then seek to overturn the stewards' decision.
This latest affair centres around an incident at the end of lap 42 where the stewards deemed Hamilton 'cut a corner and gained an advantage'.
After attempting to pass Kimi Raikkonen around the outside on entry to the final chicane, Hamilton was forced to cut the corner.
Returning to the Spa track along the pit straight, the 23-year-old temporarily held the lead before correctly handing it back.
Timing sheets indicate Raikkonen crossed the start-finish line 0.6 seconds ahead of Hamilton, with further data showing the latter was also six kilometres per hour slower at that point.
Hamilton then filed behind Raikkonen, before legitimately passing Ferrari's reigning world champion again on the run down to the first corner La Source hairpin.
In wet conditions, the lead then changed hands twice more on the penultimate lap prior to Raikkonen spinning into a wall, handing Hamilton a win that was taken away just two hours later.
Describing the incident, Hamilton said: "In the closing stages of the race I was catching Kimi consistently, lap by lap, and with three laps remaining I got close enough to attempt to overtake him on the entry to the last chicane.
"I managed to get slightly ahead of him in the braking area for the first apex of the chicane.
"He fought back approaching the second apex, but, in doing so, he left no room for me on the inside line.
"The only way for me to avoid a collision was therefore to cut inside the second apex.
"I came out of the second apex in front of Kimi and so I momentarily lifted-off on the straight, to ensure Kimi got back in front."
McLaren F1 CEO Martin Whitmarsh said: "From the pit wall, we asked Race Control to confirm they were comfortable Lewis had allowed Kimi to re-pass.
"They confirmed twice that they believed the position had been given back in a manner that was 'okay'.
"If Race Control had instead expressed any concern regarding Lewis' actions at that time, we would have instructed Lewis to allow Kimi to re-pass for a second time."
Now the case will be put before the International Court of Appeal.
Amazingly, though, confusion reigns over whether or not the FIA even have a case to answer due to Article 152 of the governing body's International Sporting Code which states a drive-through penalty is 'not susceptible to appeal'.
McLaren will contend there are exceptional circumstances in this instance, and if they convince the ICA of such a fact, they will then seek to overturn the stewards' decision.
This latest affair centres around an incident at the end of lap 42 where the stewards deemed Hamilton 'cut a corner and gained an advantage'.
After attempting to pass Kimi Raikkonen around the outside on entry to the final chicane, Hamilton was forced to cut the corner.
Returning to the Spa track along the pit straight, the 23-year-old temporarily held the lead before correctly handing it back.
Timing sheets indicate Raikkonen crossed the start-finish line 0.6 seconds ahead of Hamilton, with further data showing the latter was also six kilometres per hour slower at that point.
Hamilton then filed behind Raikkonen, before legitimately passing Ferrari's reigning world champion again on the run down to the first corner La Source hairpin.
In wet conditions, the lead then changed hands twice more on the penultimate lap prior to Raikkonen spinning into a wall, handing Hamilton a win that was taken away just two hours later.
Describing the incident, Hamilton said: "In the closing stages of the race I was catching Kimi consistently, lap by lap, and with three laps remaining I got close enough to attempt to overtake him on the entry to the last chicane.
"I managed to get slightly ahead of him in the braking area for the first apex of the chicane.
"He fought back approaching the second apex, but, in doing so, he left no room for me on the inside line.
"The only way for me to avoid a collision was therefore to cut inside the second apex.
"I came out of the second apex in front of Kimi and so I momentarily lifted-off on the straight, to ensure Kimi got back in front."
McLaren F1 CEO Martin Whitmarsh said: "From the pit wall, we asked Race Control to confirm they were comfortable Lewis had allowed Kimi to re-pass.
"They confirmed twice that they believed the position had been given back in a manner that was 'okay'.
"If Race Control had instead expressed any concern regarding Lewis' actions at that time, we would have instructed Lewis to allow Kimi to re-pass for a second time."
Ganguly dropped from Irani Cup
The others he was hinting at were Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and V V S Laxman whose combined failure along with Ganguly's, cost India the Test series in Lanka.
Another former skipper Ajit Wadekar, however, feels that all the four vastly experienced senior batsmen, including the Bengal stalwart, should be in the team to take on the mighty Australians in the four-Test series commencing next month.
"The journey to re-build the team has started. This (omission of Ganguly) may be the way the selectors are planning for the future. Also this will keep others (seniors) on their toes. It's some sort of a signal to them," Borde told PTI from Pune.
The incident is reminiscent of India's landmark series in Pakistan in 1978.
Three decades ago India embarked on a historic tour to resume cricket rivalry between the two countries for the first time since 1961, relying mainly on the spin trio of Erapalli Prasanna, Bhagwat Chandrasekhar and captain Bishen Singh Bedi to take wickets.
But all of them came a cropper and India lost the rubber.
The Pakistan batsmen, led by Zaheer Abbas who scored 583 runs averaging a phenomenal 194 per innings, made mincemeat of the spin trio's offerings. Heads rolled after the tour with Prasanna, who picked up only two wickets in two Tests at over 125 runs per victim, never played another Test.
Chandra and Bedi played in the following two series at home against Alvin Kallicharran's the West Indies and the 1979 series in England - before leaving the scene.
Wadekar though does not see India's tour of Sri Lanka as the beginning of the end for the 'Fab Four' batsmen and feels their presence in the Indian team is essential when the mighty Aussies come calling, aiming for back-to-back Test series victories.
"We had not prepared well for Lanka whose preparation, on the other hand, for the series was very good. But the experience of the seniors, including that of Ganguly, for the Test series against Australia will be vital. May be he (Ganguly) has been dropped because of his fielding," Wadekar said.
Both Borde and Wadekar were firm in their opinion that there was no replacement in sight as yet for skipper Anil Kumble who, at 37, is in the twilight of his career and also had a forgettable tour of Lanka. Kumble grabbed eight wickets while giving away 50 runs per victim.
"The Lankans put up a very good show against Kumble but on Indian wickets he and Harbhajan Singh are important to take wickets if the medium pacers don't take wickets against the Australians," Borde said.
Borde said that Kumble's likely successors Piyush Chawla and Amit Mishra were not yet ready for taking over the mantle from the Karnataka stalwart.
"They are not ready to replace Kumble. They need to perform more consistently by doing well in one-dayers. Kumble is a very good thinker and when the time comes I'm sure he will leave on his own," the former middle order batting mainstay said.
Wadekar also felt that Chawla and Mishra were "too raw" and that Kumble was still going "great guns".
"I don't think the youngsters are ready to take charge. They have not yet been groomed for it," he explained.
Another former skipper Ajit Wadekar, however, feels that all the four vastly experienced senior batsmen, including the Bengal stalwart, should be in the team to take on the mighty Australians in the four-Test series commencing next month.
"The journey to re-build the team has started. This (omission of Ganguly) may be the way the selectors are planning for the future. Also this will keep others (seniors) on their toes. It's some sort of a signal to them," Borde told PTI from Pune.
The incident is reminiscent of India's landmark series in Pakistan in 1978.
Three decades ago India embarked on a historic tour to resume cricket rivalry between the two countries for the first time since 1961, relying mainly on the spin trio of Erapalli Prasanna, Bhagwat Chandrasekhar and captain Bishen Singh Bedi to take wickets.
But all of them came a cropper and India lost the rubber.
The Pakistan batsmen, led by Zaheer Abbas who scored 583 runs averaging a phenomenal 194 per innings, made mincemeat of the spin trio's offerings. Heads rolled after the tour with Prasanna, who picked up only two wickets in two Tests at over 125 runs per victim, never played another Test.
Chandra and Bedi played in the following two series at home against Alvin Kallicharran's the West Indies and the 1979 series in England - before leaving the scene.
Wadekar though does not see India's tour of Sri Lanka as the beginning of the end for the 'Fab Four' batsmen and feels their presence in the Indian team is essential when the mighty Aussies come calling, aiming for back-to-back Test series victories.
"We had not prepared well for Lanka whose preparation, on the other hand, for the series was very good. But the experience of the seniors, including that of Ganguly, for the Test series against Australia will be vital. May be he (Ganguly) has been dropped because of his fielding," Wadekar said.
Both Borde and Wadekar were firm in their opinion that there was no replacement in sight as yet for skipper Anil Kumble who, at 37, is in the twilight of his career and also had a forgettable tour of Lanka. Kumble grabbed eight wickets while giving away 50 runs per victim.
"The Lankans put up a very good show against Kumble but on Indian wickets he and Harbhajan Singh are important to take wickets if the medium pacers don't take wickets against the Australians," Borde said.
Borde said that Kumble's likely successors Piyush Chawla and Amit Mishra were not yet ready for taking over the mantle from the Karnataka stalwart.
"They are not ready to replace Kumble. They need to perform more consistently by doing well in one-dayers. Kumble is a very good thinker and when the time comes I'm sure he will leave on his own," the former middle order batting mainstay said.
Wadekar also felt that Chawla and Mishra were "too raw" and that Kumble was still going "great guns".
"I don't think the youngsters are ready to take charge. They have not yet been groomed for it," he explained.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
IPL doors open for Roy....
Andrew Symonds, who is considering his options after being left out of Australia's squad for the Bangladesh ODIs on disciplinary grounds, is free to re-join the Deccan Chargers in 2009, according to the IPL team's new CEO, Tim Wright.
"The Deccan Chargers will - as will any IPL team - want Andrew Symonds in from the very first ball of the competition to the very last ball,'' Wright told AAP. "He will strengthen any Indian Premier League team by his presence.''
Wright said it was important Symonds "was enjoying his cricket", whether while playing for the Australian team or for Deccan, adding that he would "absolutely not" try and encourage him to end his international career.
"From an entirely personal point of view, I'd like to see Symonds help Deccan win the IPL and I'd like to see him star in an Ashes series against England in 2009," Wright said.
Wright stressed that the IPL was not looking to go one-up on Tests and ODIs. "The IPL doesn't stand alone. It's part of the world game, run through the auspices of the BCCI, which is part of the ICC. All of our players play within the structure of cricket, if they choose to."
Earlier this year, Symonds became the IPL's second-most expensive player when he was bought by Deccan for a three-year deal worth US$1.35 million annually. Symonds, though, only played four games for them before flying out to join the Australian team for their tour of the West Indies. He was one of the few bright spots in an otherwise poor campaign for Deccan, which eventually finished last, scoring 161 runs at 80.50 including a century against the Rajasthan Royals.
"The Deccan Chargers will - as will any IPL team - want Andrew Symonds in from the very first ball of the competition to the very last ball,'' Wright told AAP. "He will strengthen any Indian Premier League team by his presence.''
Wright said it was important Symonds "was enjoying his cricket", whether while playing for the Australian team or for Deccan, adding that he would "absolutely not" try and encourage him to end his international career.
"From an entirely personal point of view, I'd like to see Symonds help Deccan win the IPL and I'd like to see him star in an Ashes series against England in 2009," Wright said.
Wright stressed that the IPL was not looking to go one-up on Tests and ODIs. "The IPL doesn't stand alone. It's part of the world game, run through the auspices of the BCCI, which is part of the ICC. All of our players play within the structure of cricket, if they choose to."
Earlier this year, Symonds became the IPL's second-most expensive player when he was bought by Deccan for a three-year deal worth US$1.35 million annually. Symonds, though, only played four games for them before flying out to join the Australian team for their tour of the West Indies. He was one of the few bright spots in an otherwise poor campaign for Deccan, which eventually finished last, scoring 161 runs at 80.50 including a century against the Rajasthan Royals.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Wenger chasing new faces
The Arsenal boss openly admits he would like to add another midfielder to his squad, which lost the likes of Alexander Hleb, Mathieu Flamini and experienced Brazilian Gilberto this summer.
Although Samir Nasri - who has already scored twice in three appearances - arrived from Marseille for US$24 million, there have been calls for Wenger to add more established stars to his depth of youthful talent.
Arsenal director Danny Fiszman maintains Wenger has money to spend - and that the board would back their manager if he wanted to splash US$60 million on one player.
The likes of Liverpool's Xabi Alonso, England international Gareth Barry and also £8million-rated Swiss playmaker Gokhan Inler have all been linked with a move to Emirates Stadium, while Wenger on Friday insisted there was "no interest at all" in Feyenoord's Jonathan de Guzman.
Wenger, who landed Lassana Diarra on deadline day 12 months ago, said: "Last year it was at midnight - and we are ready to stay up all night this time if it is needed.
"We have still a long time to go.
"For a while they all talk the talk and nothing happens, then in the last four or five days every half-an-hour there is a headline saying someone has signed somewhere.
"When you have experience of transfer dealings, you know that as long as something is not signed you know it can change very quickly so you can look very silly, so you don't want to come out and announce it."
Wenger added: "We are out to look, if we find the right players we will do it, one or two.
"However, I believe it's more interesting for us to focus on our strengths and quality rather than looking outside. I know it makes headlines, but it doesn't make you win games."
Wenger again rejected the suggestions he needed to bring in a big name with a hefty fee, as title rivals Chelsea have done more than once this summer.
"I buy the players I feel strengthen the squad, after that I consider the price," he said.
"I do the job I think it has to be done, considering the resources of the club and considering our ambition, and the players we have.
"I know the media and supporters sometimes too are happy with big numbers, but for me what is most important is big quality. Sometimes both are linked, but not always."
Arsenal shrugged off any talk of a crisis when they thrashed Steve McClaren's FC Twente side at Emirates Stadium in midweek to book their place in the Champions League group stages once again.
The Gunners reward was a couple of potentially tricky away journeys to Dynamo Kiev and Fenerbahce, while Porto also await in Group G.
Wenger said: "There will be some long, difficult trips - but we want to cope with it and of course come out of it.
"It gives you an edge in the Premier League if you qualify early, then you are not under stress to give absolutely everything in one important game later in the group."
Arsenal will aim to get their domestic challenge back up and running after defeat at Fulham when Newcastle come to Emirates Stadium for tomorrow afternoon's early evening kick-off.
The Toon Army have been galvanised by the return to form of their England striker Michael Owen, who has netted in both of his appearances so far - including an extra-time winner in the Carling Cup at Coventry.
Wenger is a big fan of the former Liverpool and Real Madrid frontman.
"When I arrived in England, Owen was a young boy, very promising, and he looked absolutely fantastic because he was very quick, sharp and intelligent in front of goal," said the Arsenal manager.
"He is not just a goalscorer, he can make assists, has good link play, makes runs. Owen gets where he needs to be as he reads the game."
Arsenal have no fresh injury worries and Wenger is likely to rotate his squad - which could mean a return to the starting line-up for Togo striker Emmanuel Adebayor, who was relegated to the bench against Twente.
Although Samir Nasri - who has already scored twice in three appearances - arrived from Marseille for US$24 million, there have been calls for Wenger to add more established stars to his depth of youthful talent.
Arsenal director Danny Fiszman maintains Wenger has money to spend - and that the board would back their manager if he wanted to splash US$60 million on one player.
The likes of Liverpool's Xabi Alonso, England international Gareth Barry and also £8million-rated Swiss playmaker Gokhan Inler have all been linked with a move to Emirates Stadium, while Wenger on Friday insisted there was "no interest at all" in Feyenoord's Jonathan de Guzman.
Wenger, who landed Lassana Diarra on deadline day 12 months ago, said: "Last year it was at midnight - and we are ready to stay up all night this time if it is needed.
"We have still a long time to go.
"For a while they all talk the talk and nothing happens, then in the last four or five days every half-an-hour there is a headline saying someone has signed somewhere.
"When you have experience of transfer dealings, you know that as long as something is not signed you know it can change very quickly so you can look very silly, so you don't want to come out and announce it."
Wenger added: "We are out to look, if we find the right players we will do it, one or two.
"However, I believe it's more interesting for us to focus on our strengths and quality rather than looking outside. I know it makes headlines, but it doesn't make you win games."
Wenger again rejected the suggestions he needed to bring in a big name with a hefty fee, as title rivals Chelsea have done more than once this summer.
"I buy the players I feel strengthen the squad, after that I consider the price," he said.
"I do the job I think it has to be done, considering the resources of the club and considering our ambition, and the players we have.
"I know the media and supporters sometimes too are happy with big numbers, but for me what is most important is big quality. Sometimes both are linked, but not always."
Arsenal shrugged off any talk of a crisis when they thrashed Steve McClaren's FC Twente side at Emirates Stadium in midweek to book their place in the Champions League group stages once again.
The Gunners reward was a couple of potentially tricky away journeys to Dynamo Kiev and Fenerbahce, while Porto also await in Group G.
Wenger said: "There will be some long, difficult trips - but we want to cope with it and of course come out of it.
"It gives you an edge in the Premier League if you qualify early, then you are not under stress to give absolutely everything in one important game later in the group."
Arsenal will aim to get their domestic challenge back up and running after defeat at Fulham when Newcastle come to Emirates Stadium for tomorrow afternoon's early evening kick-off.
The Toon Army have been galvanised by the return to form of their England striker Michael Owen, who has netted in both of his appearances so far - including an extra-time winner in the Carling Cup at Coventry.
Wenger is a big fan of the former Liverpool and Real Madrid frontman.
"When I arrived in England, Owen was a young boy, very promising, and he looked absolutely fantastic because he was very quick, sharp and intelligent in front of goal," said the Arsenal manager.
"He is not just a goalscorer, he can make assists, has good link play, makes runs. Owen gets where he needs to be as he reads the game."
Arsenal have no fresh injury worries and Wenger is likely to rotate his squad - which could mean a return to the starting line-up for Togo striker Emmanuel Adebayor, who was relegated to the bench against Twente.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Lewis wary of Ferrari threat
Having dominated the British and German grands prix, Hamilton headed to the Hungaroring full of confidence and in the lead of the Drivers' Championship.
However, the McLaren driver was quickly brought down by Ferrari's Felipe Massa, who pulled off an aggressive overtaking move to take the lead of the race.
The Brazilian was on course for the victory, which would have handed him the lead in the Drivers' standings, before an engine failure three laps from the checkered flag put an end to his charge.
Massa's retirement proved to be Hamilton's blessing as it allowed the McLaren man to extend his lead in the Championship to five points ahead of Kimi Raikkonen.
But with seven races still to be run Hamilton says McLaren need to heed the warning issued by Ferrari in Hungary and up the pace if they hope to win this year's titles.
"In a way, the result in Hungary was a very important lesson for the team: it showed us in no uncertain terms that we cannot afford to be complacent and need to work hard throughout the summer break to make sure we can hit back strongly in Valencia," Hamilton told his website.
"You can never underestimate a team like Ferrari, and we know they'll be pushing just as hard as us to gain an advantage for the remainder of the year.
"Who knows, if we'd had an easier race in Hungary, maybe it would have come back and bitten us later in the season, so I feel confident that we won't be taking anything for granted.
"I know that everybody in Woking, Stuttgart and Brixworth will be working flat-out to make sure we can be strong in all the remaining races."
However, the McLaren driver was quickly brought down by Ferrari's Felipe Massa, who pulled off an aggressive overtaking move to take the lead of the race.
The Brazilian was on course for the victory, which would have handed him the lead in the Drivers' standings, before an engine failure three laps from the checkered flag put an end to his charge.
Massa's retirement proved to be Hamilton's blessing as it allowed the McLaren man to extend his lead in the Championship to five points ahead of Kimi Raikkonen.
But with seven races still to be run Hamilton says McLaren need to heed the warning issued by Ferrari in Hungary and up the pace if they hope to win this year's titles.
"In a way, the result in Hungary was a very important lesson for the team: it showed us in no uncertain terms that we cannot afford to be complacent and need to work hard throughout the summer break to make sure we can hit back strongly in Valencia," Hamilton told his website.
"You can never underestimate a team like Ferrari, and we know they'll be pushing just as hard as us to gain an advantage for the remainder of the year.
"Who knows, if we'd had an easier race in Hungary, maybe it would have come back and bitten us later in the season, so I feel confident that we won't be taking anything for granted.
"I know that everybody in Woking, Stuttgart and Brixworth will be working flat-out to make sure we can be strong in all the remaining races."
Monday, August 11, 2008
'We did not play quality cricket' - Kumble
After surrendering the series to a clinical Sri Lankan outfit, India have to face up to and deal with the sour truth that they only won one session of this game. Left to rummage through the remains of yet another overseas series squandered after a memorable comeback, Anil Kumble, India's captain, had few positives to pick out.
"We missed out on a good opportunity to beat Sri Lanka," Kumble said. "We did really well in Galle to come back and we did not capitalise on the winning of the toss here. You cannot lose five wickets in the first 40 overs of a Test. That happened to us quite regularly in this series which is something we need to think about."
With a hundred more runs in the first innings the outcome of this match could have been different. However, India's famed middle order failed again - twice. Chaminda Vaas again went wicketless and Muttiah Muralitharan was nowhere near his best, but Dammika Prasad and Ajantha Mendis bowled with guile and accuracy to rock the boat. That spelt the death knell for India, Kumar Sangakkara's match-winning hundred boarded up the coffin, and Ajantha Mendis and Murali returned to hammer in the nails.
"For a new batter to go straightway and face two spinners it is never easy," Kumble said. "People who got starts, if they had converted it would have been a different story. I do not want to give excuses. Overall we did not play quality cricket to win the series."
India's inconsistency ultimately proved pivotal. In Galle, India were 167 for 0 and lost four wickets in a post rain-interval passage; a similar story unfolded in the second innings. At the PSS Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir, India's success stories with the bat, threw it away in the second innings when the demand was solidity.
This was also arguably the worst series for India's famed middle order. Sachin Tendulkar looked a shadow of himself in scratching 95 runs at 15.83 and Sourav Ganguly, who batted so brilliantly against South Africa at Ahmedabad and Kanpur in his last series, was a phantom in Sri Lanka, making 96 runs. Rahul Dravid's tentativeness at the crease this series has betrayed a tinge of insecurity, and VVS Laxman managed just two fifties, out five times to Mendis.
"It is not just one or two players [who we should blame]," Kumble said. "It is important that everyone contributes. I do not think there was enough contribution throughout the series from the middle order consistently. Even the lower order did not contribute consistently except one game here. That is obviously something that let us down."
Harbhajan Singh and Ishant Sharma turned in match-winning performances in Galle but otherwise there was little to speak of in the bowling department. Except for Harbhajan, who took 16 wickets, no bowler averaged less than 30. Kumble, India's highest wicket-taker ever, had a series to forget. His eight wickets at 50.00 was his worst three-match series since India played Pakistan in 2006. "I take responsibility," he said, before quickly opting to take the clichéd route, "but the bowlers put their hearts in."
The saving grace of defeat is that it invariably brings lessons. As Kumble pointed out, India have a month-and-a-half to think about what needs to be done before a four-Test series against Australia. "That's still a lot of time for us to think and reflect on what went wrong," Kumble said. India's time starts now..
"We missed out on a good opportunity to beat Sri Lanka," Kumble said. "We did really well in Galle to come back and we did not capitalise on the winning of the toss here. You cannot lose five wickets in the first 40 overs of a Test. That happened to us quite regularly in this series which is something we need to think about."
With a hundred more runs in the first innings the outcome of this match could have been different. However, India's famed middle order failed again - twice. Chaminda Vaas again went wicketless and Muttiah Muralitharan was nowhere near his best, but Dammika Prasad and Ajantha Mendis bowled with guile and accuracy to rock the boat. That spelt the death knell for India, Kumar Sangakkara's match-winning hundred boarded up the coffin, and Ajantha Mendis and Murali returned to hammer in the nails.
"For a new batter to go straightway and face two spinners it is never easy," Kumble said. "People who got starts, if they had converted it would have been a different story. I do not want to give excuses. Overall we did not play quality cricket to win the series."
India's inconsistency ultimately proved pivotal. In Galle, India were 167 for 0 and lost four wickets in a post rain-interval passage; a similar story unfolded in the second innings. At the PSS Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir, India's success stories with the bat, threw it away in the second innings when the demand was solidity.
This was also arguably the worst series for India's famed middle order. Sachin Tendulkar looked a shadow of himself in scratching 95 runs at 15.83 and Sourav Ganguly, who batted so brilliantly against South Africa at Ahmedabad and Kanpur in his last series, was a phantom in Sri Lanka, making 96 runs. Rahul Dravid's tentativeness at the crease this series has betrayed a tinge of insecurity, and VVS Laxman managed just two fifties, out five times to Mendis.
"It is not just one or two players [who we should blame]," Kumble said. "It is important that everyone contributes. I do not think there was enough contribution throughout the series from the middle order consistently. Even the lower order did not contribute consistently except one game here. That is obviously something that let us down."
Harbhajan Singh and Ishant Sharma turned in match-winning performances in Galle but otherwise there was little to speak of in the bowling department. Except for Harbhajan, who took 16 wickets, no bowler averaged less than 30. Kumble, India's highest wicket-taker ever, had a series to forget. His eight wickets at 50.00 was his worst three-match series since India played Pakistan in 2006. "I take responsibility," he said, before quickly opting to take the clichéd route, "but the bowlers put their hearts in."
The saving grace of defeat is that it invariably brings lessons. As Kumble pointed out, India have a month-and-a-half to think about what needs to be done before a four-Test series against Australia. "That's still a lot of time for us to think and reflect on what went wrong," Kumble said. India's time starts now..
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Kovalainen maiden win...
Just three days after being handed a new contract with McLaren for the 2009 season, Kovalainen underlined his potential with a lucky, but deserved success in Hungary, becoming the 100th F1 winner.
However, given Raikkonen's renowned love of vodka and reputation for partying, Kovalainen may yet regret asking his fellow Finn for a suggestion on how to mark his maiden success.
"I will take him out!" replied Raikkonen with a grin.
Kovalainen, though, would appear to prefer a quieter celebration as he said: "I haven't been to my real home in north Finland for a long time, so I think I will go there at the end of the week.
"I will celebrate the day with my people in Suomussalmi village where I'm from.
"I've a little karting race organised on Saturday which has become a tradition for the last five or six years, but now it will be a very special event having won this race.
"It will be nice to go and see my people there, my family, but then it will be back to business, although I will even try to get something out of the break."
Formula One may head into its summer holiday, but Kovalainen knows behind the scenes there will be no let up as all at McLaren will be determined to build on three successive wins.
"I'll spend a bit of time in Woking talking to the engineers and preparing for the next race [European Grand Prix, Valencia]," added Kovalainen.
"This win doesn't turn my world completely upside down, even if there was a two-month break now.
"I'm happy about it, but this is just part of the goal I set myself because now the next goal is to repeat this, and then after that to do it again.
"We just need to keep up our concentration all the time."
Fortune played a part, but then after the rotten luck Kovalainen has endured on occasions this season, the 26-year-old was overdue a rub of the green.
Running third behind Ferrari's Felipe Massa and team-mate Lewis Hamilton, the latter first suffered a sidewall puncture to the left-front tyre of his McLaren on lap 41.
Then just three laps from home, Ferrari suffered an engine failure for the first time since the Japanese Grand Prix of 2006, denying Massa the win.
A respectful Kovalainen added: "Of course I feel a little sorry for Felipe, and even for Lewis, because they both drove a great race.
"But I know how they feel because I've had similar moments myself this year, quite a few times
"After Saturday I've been in a position to fight for the victory, but something has always gone wrong, something hasn't functioned perfectly.
"So to stand on the top step of the podium and to hear the Finnish anthem playing for me was fantastic. It was a great moment.
"It is something I have been targeting for many, many years now."
Timo Glock took a surprise second in his Toyota ahead of Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso in his Renault, with Hamilton fifth.
The 23-year-old now has a five-point lead over Raikkonen and eight on Massa, with Robert Kubica 23 points down after he could only manage a lowly eighth in his BMW Sauber.
However, given Raikkonen's renowned love of vodka and reputation for partying, Kovalainen may yet regret asking his fellow Finn for a suggestion on how to mark his maiden success.
"I will take him out!" replied Raikkonen with a grin.
Kovalainen, though, would appear to prefer a quieter celebration as he said: "I haven't been to my real home in north Finland for a long time, so I think I will go there at the end of the week.
"I will celebrate the day with my people in Suomussalmi village where I'm from.
"I've a little karting race organised on Saturday which has become a tradition for the last five or six years, but now it will be a very special event having won this race.
"It will be nice to go and see my people there, my family, but then it will be back to business, although I will even try to get something out of the break."
Formula One may head into its summer holiday, but Kovalainen knows behind the scenes there will be no let up as all at McLaren will be determined to build on three successive wins.
"I'll spend a bit of time in Woking talking to the engineers and preparing for the next race [European Grand Prix, Valencia]," added Kovalainen.
"This win doesn't turn my world completely upside down, even if there was a two-month break now.
"I'm happy about it, but this is just part of the goal I set myself because now the next goal is to repeat this, and then after that to do it again.
"We just need to keep up our concentration all the time."
Fortune played a part, but then after the rotten luck Kovalainen has endured on occasions this season, the 26-year-old was overdue a rub of the green.
Running third behind Ferrari's Felipe Massa and team-mate Lewis Hamilton, the latter first suffered a sidewall puncture to the left-front tyre of his McLaren on lap 41.
Then just three laps from home, Ferrari suffered an engine failure for the first time since the Japanese Grand Prix of 2006, denying Massa the win.
A respectful Kovalainen added: "Of course I feel a little sorry for Felipe, and even for Lewis, because they both drove a great race.
"But I know how they feel because I've had similar moments myself this year, quite a few times
"After Saturday I've been in a position to fight for the victory, but something has always gone wrong, something hasn't functioned perfectly.
"So to stand on the top step of the podium and to hear the Finnish anthem playing for me was fantastic. It was a great moment.
"It is something I have been targeting for many, many years now."
Timo Glock took a surprise second in his Toyota ahead of Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso in his Renault, with Hamilton fifth.
The 23-year-old now has a five-point lead over Raikkonen and eight on Massa, with Robert Kubica 23 points down after he could only manage a lowly eighth in his BMW Sauber.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Vaughan steps down as captain..
Michael Vaughan has resigned as England captain following the series defeat against South Africa, which was sealed by the five-wicket loss at Edgbaston on Saturday.
The decision was announced during a hastily arranged press conference at Loughborough even though yesterday evening Vaughan said he "would let the dust" settle on the defeat.
Paul Collingwood has also stood down as one-day captain, meaning that England will announce a new captain for both forms of the game on Monday. The frontrunner is Kevin Pietersen, who is a fixture in both teams. Collingwood is currently serving a four-match suspension for a slow over-rate.
An emotional Vaughan said he felt the time was right to go and will take some time out of the game and won't play in the final Test at The Oval, though he remains available for selection for future England contests.
"It's the hardest decision I've ever had to make, but also the easiest," said Vaughan. "I put my heart and soul into the job but if I kept on going my career could have come to an abrupt end. I think this decision will prolong my career.
"I thought it might be time to go in New Zealand, where my body was working well but my mind was not working well. I will always cherish the support I've had, but this is a weight off my shoulders.
"I had every ambition to lead the England team to the next Ashes Series but as England captain I feel I've run out of steam," he added. "I believe that the best thing for the team is to embark on a new direction under a new captain.
"I also believe the best thing for me is to try and get back to being best batsmen I can be. I'll still have all the experience and knowledge to pass on and I hope to be a valuable player for both my county and the England team
"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all the fans who have always been so supportive and have provided a huge inspiration to me as captain. A captain is only as good as his teams and I've been fortunate enough to captain some terrific players and great blokes."
It brings an end to Vaughan's 51-match run as captain, four games short of becoming England's long-serving leader, although his 26 victories makes him, statistically, the most successful captain.
"He's led from the front and always led with integrity and honesty. He's been the best possible ambassador for the England cricket team," said managing director Hugh Morris.
However, the pressure on Vaughan has been growing in recent months despite back-to-back series victories against New Zealand. The series loss to South Africa is England's third in five series, dating back to the 1-0 reversal against India last summer. They then lost by the same margin in Sri Lanka before losing the first Test against New Zealand in Hamilton. Vaughan led a shake-up of the team by dropping Matthew Hoggard and Steve Harmison and England hit back to take the series, but the performances were not convincing.
Adding to the stress on Vaughan has been his own lack of runs. He has made 40 in five innings against South Africa, consistently being troubled by the pace bowlers, and his last ten Test have produced just one century and an average of 22.
He took on the role against South Africa in 2003, following Nasser Hussain's resignation which also came after an Edgbaston Test. His first Test in charge, at Lord's, was a thumping innings defeat, but he subsequently secured victories at Trent Bridge and The Oval as England shared the series.
The defeats in the past two weeks at Headingley and Edgbaston were the first time he has lost back-to-back Tests and a hallmark of his reign as captain was how England could bounce back from defeats. His finest moment was the 2005 Ashes victory, although he was also at the helm for historic away successes against West Indies in 2004 and South Africa in 2005..
source:Cric Info
The decision was announced during a hastily arranged press conference at Loughborough even though yesterday evening Vaughan said he "would let the dust" settle on the defeat.
Paul Collingwood has also stood down as one-day captain, meaning that England will announce a new captain for both forms of the game on Monday. The frontrunner is Kevin Pietersen, who is a fixture in both teams. Collingwood is currently serving a four-match suspension for a slow over-rate.
An emotional Vaughan said he felt the time was right to go and will take some time out of the game and won't play in the final Test at The Oval, though he remains available for selection for future England contests.
"It's the hardest decision I've ever had to make, but also the easiest," said Vaughan. "I put my heart and soul into the job but if I kept on going my career could have come to an abrupt end. I think this decision will prolong my career.
"I thought it might be time to go in New Zealand, where my body was working well but my mind was not working well. I will always cherish the support I've had, but this is a weight off my shoulders.
"I had every ambition to lead the England team to the next Ashes Series but as England captain I feel I've run out of steam," he added. "I believe that the best thing for the team is to embark on a new direction under a new captain.
"I also believe the best thing for me is to try and get back to being best batsmen I can be. I'll still have all the experience and knowledge to pass on and I hope to be a valuable player for both my county and the England team
"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all the fans who have always been so supportive and have provided a huge inspiration to me as captain. A captain is only as good as his teams and I've been fortunate enough to captain some terrific players and great blokes."
It brings an end to Vaughan's 51-match run as captain, four games short of becoming England's long-serving leader, although his 26 victories makes him, statistically, the most successful captain.
"He's led from the front and always led with integrity and honesty. He's been the best possible ambassador for the England cricket team," said managing director Hugh Morris.
However, the pressure on Vaughan has been growing in recent months despite back-to-back series victories against New Zealand. The series loss to South Africa is England's third in five series, dating back to the 1-0 reversal against India last summer. They then lost by the same margin in Sri Lanka before losing the first Test against New Zealand in Hamilton. Vaughan led a shake-up of the team by dropping Matthew Hoggard and Steve Harmison and England hit back to take the series, but the performances were not convincing.
Adding to the stress on Vaughan has been his own lack of runs. He has made 40 in five innings against South Africa, consistently being troubled by the pace bowlers, and his last ten Test have produced just one century and an average of 22.
He took on the role against South Africa in 2003, following Nasser Hussain's resignation which also came after an Edgbaston Test. His first Test in charge, at Lord's, was a thumping innings defeat, but he subsequently secured victories at Trent Bridge and The Oval as England shared the series.
The defeats in the past two weeks at Headingley and Edgbaston were the first time he has lost back-to-back Tests and a hallmark of his reign as captain was how England could bounce back from defeats. His finest moment was the 2005 Ashes victory, although he was also at the helm for historic away successes against West Indies in 2004 and South Africa in 2005..
source:Cric Info
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Champs Trophy still under threat...
Though the ICC has retained Pakistan as the hosts for Champions Trophy in September, Imran Khan and some other former captains have said they think the tournament might be moved in the last hour citing security concerns.
The World Cup winning skipper said he was pessimistic about the chances of Pakistan staging the Champions Trophy because "it is close to impossible to convince countries like Australia and England about the security situation here".
"The security concerns are many and when we have 65 suicide attacks last year so the foreign players are obviously scared of coming to Pakistan," Imran said.
Another former skipper Javed Miandad echoed similar sentiments as Imran. He said he does not know how the tournament can be staged when so many team are talking about the troubled security situation out there.
"I really don't know what to say but the way things are, the way foreign teams are constantly talking about the security, it seems difficult that the tournament would be held in Pakistan," he said.
Miandad said if the Champions Trophy is shifted, the blame should squarely move to the PCB since it has not done enough lobbying to convince other countries about the situation in the country.
"If the government gets involved, it might help the PCB's cause," he said.
Another former player, on conditions of anonymity, said that the ICC decision to have a special task force to inspect last minute arrangements in Pakistan is a facade.
"It is all a ploy to reduce the blow for Pakistan when they finally shift the event away from here to Sri Lanka. If India takes a strong stand then the ICC and the countries not wanting to send their teams to Pakistan might come under pressure," he said..
Now a days cricket is being more like a Independence day or a republic day, looks it needs a lot of security measures....I hope this is not to be continued any more...Let the cricket be held in a peaceful manner...plz do not Involve terrorism into this..
The World Cup winning skipper said he was pessimistic about the chances of Pakistan staging the Champions Trophy because "it is close to impossible to convince countries like Australia and England about the security situation here".
"The security concerns are many and when we have 65 suicide attacks last year so the foreign players are obviously scared of coming to Pakistan," Imran said.
Another former skipper Javed Miandad echoed similar sentiments as Imran. He said he does not know how the tournament can be staged when so many team are talking about the troubled security situation out there.
"I really don't know what to say but the way things are, the way foreign teams are constantly talking about the security, it seems difficult that the tournament would be held in Pakistan," he said.
Miandad said if the Champions Trophy is shifted, the blame should squarely move to the PCB since it has not done enough lobbying to convince other countries about the situation in the country.
"If the government gets involved, it might help the PCB's cause," he said.
Another former player, on conditions of anonymity, said that the ICC decision to have a special task force to inspect last minute arrangements in Pakistan is a facade.
"It is all a ploy to reduce the blow for Pakistan when they finally shift the event away from here to Sri Lanka. If India takes a strong stand then the ICC and the countries not wanting to send their teams to Pakistan might come under pressure," he said..
Now a days cricket is being more like a Independence day or a republic day, looks it needs a lot of security measures....I hope this is not to be continued any more...Let the cricket be held in a peaceful manner...plz do not Involve terrorism into this..
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Force to be reckoned with....
Here is what Mr.Mallya has to say about....
The team has yet to score a point after 10 races this year, and neither Giancarlo Fisichella nor Adrian Sutil has made it into the second session of qualifying.
However, Mallya feels Force India are a work in progress, and they have managed to outshine a number of their rivals who work with bigger budgets.
"Let's look at the hard facts - we've had a 12th-placed finish and a 10th-placed finish," asserted Mallya.
"We've had double finishes and very competitive races - just look at Monaco.
"We've raced with teams whose budgets are twice as much as ours, with manufacturer support, and we've finished ahead of them - you can't take this away from us.
"What I am really pleased about, however, is the progress we have made in the times relative to others. I can honestly say we are the most improved team on the grid.
"Last year we were four seconds off the front and two seconds from the rear of the field, but in the German Grand Prix we were just one second from the top five.
"No other team has found two seconds from last year, so clearly this is a reason to be satisfied."
Ahead of this weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix, the last before F1 heads off on its summer break, Mallya has no regrets about taking up the task of resurrecting his team's fortunes.
It has meant dipping into his vast personal fortune to do so, but he added: "It's been every bit as good, and as frustrating, as I expected it to be.
"I'm very proud of what this small team has achieved, and how we are pulling together to show some good progress and showings that no-one in the field expected us to do.
"On the other hand there have been challenges, as I knew there would be, and disappointments, but the good far outweighs the bad.
"I have no regrets at all about becoming involved in the team, and I am really looking forward to the second part of the year."
The team has yet to score a point after 10 races this year, and neither Giancarlo Fisichella nor Adrian Sutil has made it into the second session of qualifying.
However, Mallya feels Force India are a work in progress, and they have managed to outshine a number of their rivals who work with bigger budgets.
"Let's look at the hard facts - we've had a 12th-placed finish and a 10th-placed finish," asserted Mallya.
"We've had double finishes and very competitive races - just look at Monaco.
"We've raced with teams whose budgets are twice as much as ours, with manufacturer support, and we've finished ahead of them - you can't take this away from us.
"What I am really pleased about, however, is the progress we have made in the times relative to others. I can honestly say we are the most improved team on the grid.
"Last year we were four seconds off the front and two seconds from the rear of the field, but in the German Grand Prix we were just one second from the top five.
"No other team has found two seconds from last year, so clearly this is a reason to be satisfied."
Ahead of this weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix, the last before F1 heads off on its summer break, Mallya has no regrets about taking up the task of resurrecting his team's fortunes.
It has meant dipping into his vast personal fortune to do so, but he added: "It's been every bit as good, and as frustrating, as I expected it to be.
"I'm very proud of what this small team has achieved, and how we are pulling together to show some good progress and showings that no-one in the field expected us to do.
"On the other hand there have been challenges, as I knew there would be, and disappointments, but the good far outweighs the bad.
"I have no regrets at all about becoming involved in the team, and I am really looking forward to the second part of the year."
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
BCCI rejects ECB's rival league offer..
The BCCI has rejected an offer from the ECB to join England's version of the Champions League to be held in Sharjah this October.
It's understood that David Collier, the chief executive of the ECB, invited the Indian board to join the ECB's tournament. However, the BCCI replied on Monday saying that, though it "wished the ECB all the best" with its tournament, "unfortunately, we cannot accept" the invitation.
An ECB spokesperson contacted by Cricinfo said he was not aware of the development.
The BCCI's reply, sent on its behalf by Lalit Modi, the IPL commissioner, suggests its position is final. It wants "to avoid playing ping-pong over email" on this issue, reliable sources told Cricinfo. Modi is also understood to have "clearly informed" the eight IPL franchises that they can participate only in tournaments run and approved by the BCCI.
It would have been "very unusual" for the BCCI to accept the ECB's proposal to join another Champions League, the sources said, considering the Indian board had already announced the dates and venues of its own tournament. Significantly, the ECB's offer says the tournament will be held in Sharjah, which was blacklisted by the Indian government following the allegations of match-fixing. "No Indian team will be going there, at least not with the BCCI's permission", the sources said.
As far as the BCCI is concerned, it will now focus on its Champions League along with Cricket Australia and Cricket South Africa, who are said to be on board. "Already, more teams are lined up for next year, including West Indies, which has confirmed its participation," the sources said.
On Sunday, Collier was quoted by BBC as saying, "I would be bitterly disappointed if all four nations aren't represented by their two top teams. We will be discussing with our counterparts in Australia, South Africa and India to try to iron out the last few items within the rules and regulations."
The BCCI-backed Champions League will be played this year in India from September 29 to October 8 at three venues - Jaipur, New Delhi and Mohali. The final details of tournament will be finalized in Mumbai on Wednesday at a meeting to be attended by officials from the BCCI, Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Cricket Australia (CA).
Modi had told Cricinfo on Sunday that the ECB would not be represented at the meeting and the tournament was also unlikely to include England, which "has been unreasonable" in continuing to object to various rules and regulations.
The BCCI's Champions League originally planned to include the top two Twenty20 domestic teams from India, Australia, South Africa and England. With the ECB's participation in doubt, Modi said a team from Pakistan was confirmed while the last slot may be filled by a team from New Zealand or even Sri Lanka
source:cric info
It's understood that David Collier, the chief executive of the ECB, invited the Indian board to join the ECB's tournament. However, the BCCI replied on Monday saying that, though it "wished the ECB all the best" with its tournament, "unfortunately, we cannot accept" the invitation.
An ECB spokesperson contacted by Cricinfo said he was not aware of the development.
The BCCI's reply, sent on its behalf by Lalit Modi, the IPL commissioner, suggests its position is final. It wants "to avoid playing ping-pong over email" on this issue, reliable sources told Cricinfo. Modi is also understood to have "clearly informed" the eight IPL franchises that they can participate only in tournaments run and approved by the BCCI.
It would have been "very unusual" for the BCCI to accept the ECB's proposal to join another Champions League, the sources said, considering the Indian board had already announced the dates and venues of its own tournament. Significantly, the ECB's offer says the tournament will be held in Sharjah, which was blacklisted by the Indian government following the allegations of match-fixing. "No Indian team will be going there, at least not with the BCCI's permission", the sources said.
As far as the BCCI is concerned, it will now focus on its Champions League along with Cricket Australia and Cricket South Africa, who are said to be on board. "Already, more teams are lined up for next year, including West Indies, which has confirmed its participation," the sources said.
On Sunday, Collier was quoted by BBC as saying, "I would be bitterly disappointed if all four nations aren't represented by their two top teams. We will be discussing with our counterparts in Australia, South Africa and India to try to iron out the last few items within the rules and regulations."
The BCCI-backed Champions League will be played this year in India from September 29 to October 8 at three venues - Jaipur, New Delhi and Mohali. The final details of tournament will be finalized in Mumbai on Wednesday at a meeting to be attended by officials from the BCCI, Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Cricket Australia (CA).
Modi had told Cricinfo on Sunday that the ECB would not be represented at the meeting and the tournament was also unlikely to include England, which "has been unreasonable" in continuing to object to various rules and regulations.
The BCCI's Champions League originally planned to include the top two Twenty20 domestic teams from India, Australia, South Africa and England. With the ECB's participation in doubt, Modi said a team from Pakistan was confirmed while the last slot may be filled by a team from New Zealand or even Sri Lanka
source:cric info
Saturday, July 26, 2008
What's wrong with India....
The Indian cricket team showed a poor performance in the First Sri Lanka, at the SSC grounds...I donno why they made a such a poor start...I think they were lacking in the shot selection as said by The team's coach Kirsten...The referral system made a lot of difference for both the teams where Indians were unlucky with some dismissals...They again proved that the find a bit difficult to read mendis's deliveries..Murali was as usual brilliant with his spell, the both spin partners just dismisses India for less than 150 in the second Innings..For India laxman and gauti showed some resistance..But they were finding it difficult to face Mendis..They have to improve a lot in the second test that starts by this month end.Kumble and kirsten have a long way ahead to face the lankans...They have to improve a lot..Mean while Srilankan Batsman were playing it with an ease there were four centuries..All played well,and my question is why can't India bowl like the Lnkans..It's the same pitch..y the Indian spinners find it difficult to bowl in correct line and length???,the next test is at Galle, which is again a bowling pitch...Adding a extra spinner or a pacer will make things for India I hope...any How Indians have a long way ahead and they have to try and level the series at least....
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Is 300 Too Low???
Yea it's the Target am talking about in the Asia Cup...almost all the matches have seen a target of above 300...and this target has been chased down with an ease...The pitches at pakistan are too flat and batsman friendly and curator has nothing to do for the bowlers it seems...Al most all the bowlers are being Hammered mercilessly I recently saw one of the best bowlers of Pakistan Sohail Tanvir went for 87 runs in his 10 overs...He was almost the hero of the IPL for the Rajastan Royals..At lest for the Champions Trophy Pakistan has to do something with their pitches, i Hope the Champions Trophy is hosted by Pakistan This year....
The Asia Cup.....
India finally after playing some good cricket and very tired in the sense reached the finals of the ongoing Asia cup in Pakistan..They Bet Srilanka by chasing a huge target of 309 in just 46 overs, the top order are really playing on well to maintain their strike rate above 90..It's really god to see Suresh Raina promoted up the order is really playing well and dhoni has to appreciated for his captaining...Having lost just a match with pakistan,india some how gained the momentum against srilanka...Now it's all over India Facing Srilanka tomorrow will be in full flow to win the match...I hope India wins the Asia cup with ease..chak de India.....
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)