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March 31, 2013

Juventus close in on title, Napoli win thriller

Juventus moved a step closer to a second successive Serie A title after winning 2-1 in a pulsating "derby of Italy" at Inter Milan on Saturday, while Edinson Cavani came off the bench to inspire Napoli to a thrilling 5-3 win at Torino.

Bayern crush Hamburg 9-2 to stride towards title

League leaders Bayern Munich demolished Hamburg SV 9-2 with four goals from striker Claudio Pizarro and two from Arjen Robben on Saturday to put one hand on the Bundesliga trophy with seven games to play.

La Liga: Real, Barca draw as Europe takes priority

Barcelona and Real Madrid both drew away against sides battling relegation in La Liga on Saturday as the top two focused their attentions on next week's Champions League quarter-finals.

March 30, 2013

EPL: Own goal helps United move closer to title

A Titus Bramble own goal helped Manchester United edge closer to their 20th league title when they won 1-0 at Sunderland on Saturday to stay 15 points clear of champions Manchester City with only eight Premier League games left to play.

Chiangmai Golf Classic: Bhullar sizzles with 65

Gaganjeet Bhullar made the great charge with a sizzling seven-under 65, the best card of the day, but Thai veteran Prayad Marksaeng fired a majestic six-under-par 66 to open up a commanding five-shot lead over the field at the end of the third day in the inaugural $750,000 Chiangmai Golf Classic in Thailand.

Pistorius set to receive snub from major athletic events

The sporting world is set to snub Oscar Pistorius from major events around the world after a court in South Africa allowed the Olympic and Paralympic star to return to international competition.

German officials welcome cyclist's doping admission

Rider Stefan Schumacher's admission that he had used banned substances was welcomed by the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) and national cycling federation (BDR) on Friday.

March 29, 2013

United SC hold East Bengal
A goalkeeping folly by Gurpreet Singh helped United SC bounce back from behind as they struck twice in three minutes to hold East Bengal 2-2 in their round 22 I-League fixture in Kalyani. England reported to FIFA after Ferdinand racially abused

England have been reported to world governing body FIFA after racist abuse was heard from visiting fans at last week's World Cup qualifier in San Marino.

Newcastle and Wigan assistants fined for clash

Newcastle United assistant manager John Carver and Wigan Athletic first team coach Graham Barrow have been fined 1,000 pounds by the FA following an altercation at halftime in a Premier League match last month.

Mexican weightlifter Soraya Jimenez dies at age 35

Mexican weightlifter Soraya Jimenez, a gold medalist at the Sydney games in 2000, died at age 35 on Thursday from a heart attack, Mexico's Olympic Committee said.

March 28, 2013

NBA: Miami's 27-game win run ends
Miami Heat's 27-game winning streak in the National Basketball Association ended on Wednesday when they were beaten by the Chicago Bulls. Pistorius granted permission to travel abroad

Oscar Pistorius, charged with murdering his girlfriend, was granted permission to travel abroad by a South African judge on Thursday.

March 27, 2013

Saina in race for BWF's Player of the Year Award

Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal has been nominated for the 2012 Female Player of the Year Award of the Badminton World Federation on the back of an impressive performance in the season which had seen her win a bronze medal in London Olympics.

KL squash: Bright start for Pallikal

India's top woman squash player Dipika Pallikal started her campaign in the KL Open tournament on a winning note, beating Lisa Aitken of Scotland in straight sets in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday.

March 26, 2013

One leg handicap won't deter Arunima in Everest climb

Arunima Sinha, who lost her left leg after being thrown off a moving train two years ago, is determined to conquer he world's highest peak -- Mt Everest.

March 25, 2013

Russian tycoon Abramovich not detained in US: Spokesman

A spokesman for Roman Abramovich denied a news report on Monday that the billionaire Russian owner of London's Chelsea soccer club had been arrested in the United States.

Delhi leg of Indian Grand Prix athletics postponed
The third and final leg of the Indian Grand Prix, scheduled to be held on April 13, has been postponed due to clash of dates with the Annual General Body Meeting of the Athletics Federation of India. NBA: Miami, without Wade, wins 26th game in a row

If Dwyane Wade had to pick a game to sit out with a bruised right knee, this was the one.

March 23, 2013

Atwal in second place at Louisiana Open

Arjun Atwal moved into overdrive with a six-under 30 on the second nine to climb to second spot in the Chitimacha Louisiana Open in Broussard, United States.

Jeev lies three behind leader in Malaysia

Jeev Milkha Singh gave himself an outside chance to make a bid for the Maybank Malaysian Open with a fine run of five-under through 11 holes in the third round of the tournament that has now been reduced to 54 holes.

Djokovic wins in Miami, while Azarenka withdraws

Novak Djokovic and Maria Sharapova both survived unscathed but the Sony Open lost two other grand slam champions on Friday when Victoria Azarenka and Juan Martin Del Potro exited the Miami tournament.

March 22, 2013

India-Indonesia Davis Cup tie to be played under lights
In a first of its kind, the three-day Asia Oceania Davis Cup tie between India and Indonesia will be played under lights from April 5 to 7 at the KSLTA Tennis Stadium in Bangalore. Junior weightlifters allege harassment at NIS
A 19-year-old weightlifter has been suspended by the Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWF) for allegedly harassing three junior women weightlifters at the NIS, Patiala. Hodgson cagey on Ferdinand's England future

Roy Hodgson will wait to see if defender Rio Ferdinand has an international future after he withdrew from the squad for the next two World Cup qualifiers, the England manager said.

FIFA fail to agree on age limits

FIFA's executive committee failed on Thursday to agree whether age and mandate limits should be placed on senior officials.

March 21, 2013

Sneijder back as Dutch seek to keep perfect record

Playmaker Wesley Sneijder is relishing being back in the international fold and helping the Netherlands take another step towards World Cup qualification when they host Estonia on Friday.

WC qualifier: Spain face Xavi poser before Finland clash

The main conundrum for Spain coach Vicente del Bosque ahead of Friday's World Cup Group I qualifier at home to minnows Finland is who to deploy in place of Xavi should the injured Barcelona playmaker be ruled out as expected.

France have Georgia, and not Spain, on their mind

France coach Didier Deschamps will ram home the message that his side must focus on beating Georgia on Friday and not think about the looming clash with Spain as their 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign takes a decisive turn.

WC qualifier: Germany break with tradition against Kazakhstan

Whether it was Gerd Mueller, Rudi Voeller or Miroslav Klose, Germany have never had a shortage of gifted strikers but when they take on Kazakhstan in their World Cup qualifier on Friday there could be none in their lineup.

WC qualifiers: Roof row heats up Sweden-Ireland clash

Amid accusations of gamesmanship, Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has called for the stadium roof to be left open for Friday's World Cup qualifier in Sweden.

Platini accuses Blatter of attacking European soccer

Michel Platini has accused FIFA president Sepp Blatter of attacking European soccer while defending UEFA's decision to stage Euro 2020 across the continent and its right to question FIFA's reform process.

March 20, 2013

Golf: Chinese schoolboy youngest to get European Tour card
Twelve-year-old Ye Wocheng became the youngest golfer to qualify for a European Tour event when the Chinese schoolboy survived a late wobble to grab a place at the Volvo China Open on Wednesday.

March 19, 2013

Chechen head Kadyrov labels referee a 'donkey'

Terek Grozny could face stiff penalties from the Russian FA after ChechenRepublic head and club honorary president Ramzan Kadyrov insulted the referee following Sunday's 0-0 draw against Rubin Kazan, calling him a "donkey".

March 17, 2013

Aiken gets three-stroke win at Avantha Masters

South African Thomas Aiken held firm against a spirited challenge by local favourite Gaganjeet Bhullar to win his second European Tour title at the Avantha Masters in New Delhi on Sunday.

Azlan Shah: Rupinder double helps India beat Pakistan
Drag-flicker Rupinder Pal Singh struck twice as India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan 4-2 in a thrilling match and avoided the wooden spoon in the Sultan Azlan Shah hockey tournament Ipoh on Sunday.

March 16, 2013

South African Aiken soars to three-shot lead in India

South African Thomas Aiken carded a blemish-free round of 10-under-par 62 to grab a commanding three-stroke lead after the third round of the Avantha Masters on Saturday.

Indian boxers settle for bronze at Asian Youth C'ship
Four Indian pugilists had to be content with bronze medals after suffering defeats in the penultimate round of the ASBC Asian Confederation Youth Boxing Championship in Subic Bay, Philippines. Azlan Shah: Malaysia hold India in final league encounter
A controversial penalty stroke enabled Malaysia to hold India to a 2-2 draw in the final round-robin match of the Sultan Azlan Shah hockey tournament in Ipoh on Saturday. Saina storms into Swiss Open semis

Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal was on course for her third consecutive Swiss Open title as she stormed into the semi-finals of the Grand Prix Gold tournament after thrashing Tzu Ying Tai of Chinese Taipei in Basel.

March 15, 2013

Taiwanese athlete loses appeal against IOC election ban

A Taiwanese Olympic gold medallist has lost his appeal against a ruling which barred him from taking part in an election for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) athletes' commission last year.

Avantha golf: Chapchai, Liang share halfway lead in India

Chapchai Nirat of Thailand and China's Liang Wenchong both carded second successive rounds of six-under-par to share a two-shot lead after the second round of the Avantha Masters on Friday.

Indo-Pak hockey series called off after govt's objection

The diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan has yet again spilled over to the sporting arena as the Indian government has refused permission for a home-and-away bilateral hockey series between the two countries on security grounds.

Swiss Open: Saina Nehwal through to quarters

India's ace shuttler Saina Nehwal stormed into the quarterfinals of the Swiss Open Grand Prix Gold badminton tournament with a straight game win over of Petya Nedelcheva of Bulgaria in Basel.

FIFA warns Guatemala on reprieve for match-fixers

Guatemala have been warned they could be suspended by FIFA after three internationals, including two of the country's most-capped players, had life bans for match-fixing overturned.

March 14, 2013

Kashyap bows out of Swiss Open

Parupalli Kashyap crashed out of the Swiss Open Grand Prix Gold badminton tournament after losing to Wei Feng Chong of Malaysia in the men's singles pre-quarter-finals in Basel on Thursday.

Injured Dibaba pulls out of London Marathon

Ethiopia's Olympic 10,000 metres champion Tirunesh Dibaba has withdrawn from next month's London Marathon with a shin injury, organisers said on Thursday.

Thailand's Phadungsil on fire at Avantha Masters

Abhijit Chadha shone bright for India with a flawless opening card in his debut European Tour event but it was Thai youngster Chinnarat Phadungsil who stole the thunder from several stalwarts by turning in a sensational 11-under 61 on Day one of the Avantha Masters golf tournament in Greater Noida on Thursday.

IOC fixes date for meeting with IOA, Sports Ministry
The International Olympic Committee has fixed the dates of the joint meeting with the Indian Olympic Association and Sports Ministry in the second week of next month to find a way towards resolving the issues that led to the country's ban from the Olympic family. Pellegrini lauds players for staying focused on football

Malaga coach Manuel Pellegrini praised his players for keeping their focus through a turbulent period for the Qatari-owned club after they eliminated Porto on Wednesday to advance to the Champions League last eight on their debut in the competition.

Saina regains No 2 ranking, Kashyap rises to No 7

London Olympics bronze medalist Saina Nehwal regained second place while Parupalli Kashyap continued his upward progress, earning two places to reach seventh in the latest world badminton rankings, on Thursday.

Glasgow CWG to incorporate best practices of Delhi Games

Organisers of next year's Glasgow Commonwealth Games are introducing some of the "best practices" of the 2010 New Delhi Games, Senator Hugh Segal, Canada's Special envoy for CWG renewal, said.

Swiss Open: Saina, Kashyap reach pre quarterfinals

Ace Indian shuttlers Saina Nehwal and Parupalli Kashyap reached the pre-quarterfinals of the Swiss Open Grand Prix Gold after notching up contrasting victories in the women's and men's singles competitions in Basel.

Indian Wells: Kvitova out, Kirilenko and Sharapova advance

Erratic serving cost Petra Kvitova dearly as the fifth-seeded Czech was knocked out of the BNP Paribas Open by Russian Maria Kirilenko on Wednesday, losing 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 in the quarter-finals.

Dropping wrestling from Olympics unjustified: Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that wrestling should not be excluded from the Olympics, suggesting its ancient roots made it an integral part of the programme.

Seventeen athletes face bans after blood profile changes

Seventeen athletes face doping bans after abnormalities were detected in the International Association of Athletics Federations' (IAAF) biological passports which track changes in their blood profiles.

New Pope suffers for Argentine soccer club San Lorenzo

The new pope, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, is not above the passion his countrymen share for soccer and is an avid a fan of San Lorenzo, one of Argentina's top clubs.

Lobby group urge Armstrong to make full confession

Disgraced U.S. cyclist Lance Armstrong has been personally urged to make a full confession of all his involvement in doping by the founder of the lobby group Change Cycling Now.

March 13, 2013

Solskjaer sees Giggs as future manager at United

Ryan Giggs has the potential to manage Manchester United when Alex Ferguson eventually calls it a day, according to his former team mate Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Former Arsenal boss reckons Wenger has lost his touch

Arsenal's Arsene Wenger has lost his touch in the transfer market and the standard of players at the club has fallen, the club's former manager George Graham said on Tuesday.

March 12, 2013

Suarez would be greatest not to win award: Gerrard

Liverpool's Luis Suarez will be the greatest player not to win one of England's player of the year awards if he is overlooked this season, according to his captain Steven Gerrard.

Benitez abuse affects players, says Chelsea's Mikel

Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel believes fan negativity is affecting the players at the Premier League club.

Palermo sack Gasperini for second time this season

Palermo sacked coach Gian Piero Gasperini for the second time in a season on Monday as owner Maurizio Zamparini desperately battles to avoid the drop.

Reading sack manager McDermott

Reading have sacked manager Brian McDermott after a difficult first season back in the Premier League, the club said on Monday.

Usain Bolt, Jessica Ennis win top Laureus Awards

Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt and British heptathlete Jessica Ennis won the Laureus World Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year Awards on Monday following their success at the 2012 London Olympic Games.

Wrestling part of European Games despite Olympic snub

Wrestling officially became part of the inaugural 2015 European Games on Tuesday despite being axed from the 2020 Olympic Games last month by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Arundhati clears 1st hurdle at Swiss Open qualifiers
India's Arundhati Pantawane made a winning start in the qualifying round of the Women's singles event at the Swiss Open Badminton Championship while compatriot Tanvi Lad made an early exit.

March 11, 2013

Bayern's Ribery ruled out against Arsenal

Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery has been ruled out of their Champions League round of 16 second leg at home to Arsenal on Wednesday after picking up an ankle injury in the league on Saturday, the club said in a statement.

'Action will be taken if Vijender is found guilty'

Union Sports Minister Jitendra Singh, on Monday, said that appropriate action will be taken against Olympic bronze-medallist Vijender Singh only if the boxer is found guilty in the drug scandal that has rocked Indian boxing.

Lahiri climbs to 2nd in Asian Tour Order of Merit

Rising Indian golfer Anirban Lahiri's successful consecutive title triumph at the SAIL-SBI Open on Sunday helped him climb to the second spot in the Asian Tour Order of Merit.

Ronaldo double lifts Real to second in La Liga

Real Madrid followed up Tuesday's Champions League success at Manchester United by climbing above beaten city rivals Atletico into second in La Liga when Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice in a 2-1 win at second-bottom Celta Vigo on Sunday.

Stricker's generosity helps Tiger to victory

Steve Stricker could be forgiven for regretting he helped Tiger Woods with his putting before the WGC-Cadillac Championship, but after losing to him by two shots on Sunday, Stricker said he simply did what golfing buddies do.

Millwall and Blackburn fail to break FA Cup stalemate

Millwall and Blackburn Rovers fought out a goalless stalemate in a scrappy FA Cup quarter-final on Sunday with both the Championship (second tier) sides going into the semi-final draw.

Late Gerrard penalty gives Liverpool win over Spurs

Liverpool ended Tottenham Hotspur's 12-match unbeaten Premier League run when a late Steven Gerrard penalty gave them a 3-2 win at Anfield on Sunday after the visitors led 2-1 with little more than 20 minutes to play.

FA Cup: Chelsea fight back to earn replay with United

Holders Chelsea came from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Manchester United on Sunday and earn a replay of their FA Cup quarter-final, inflicting further pain Alex Ferguson's side who have endured a week to forget.

March 10, 2013

Gurmeet wins bronze in 20km walk in Japan
Olympian Gurmeet Singh on Sunday won a bronze medal but Khushbir Kaur had to be content with a fourth-place finish in the Asian 20km Walking Championship, held at Nomi City, Japan. Azlan Shah Hockey: India go down to South Korea

A defensive lapse towards the end cost India dear as they went down 1-2 against South Korea to suffer their second consecutive defeat in the Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey tournament, in Ipoh on Sunday.

'Don't think Vijender has involvement with drug haul'

Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda on Sunday said he does not think boxer Vijender Singh has any involvement with the drug haul case in Punjab, stressing that law would take its own course.

Messi surpasses goal record from 1930s

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi broke a record from the 1930s on Saturday when he scored for a 17th consecutive La Liga game, a 2-0 victory at home to bottom club Deportivo La Coruna.

Hard to mistake drugs for food supplements: NIS

The National Institute of Sports on Sunday rejected expelled boxer Ram Singh's claim that he and Olympic medallist Vijender Singh had taken drugs mistaking them for "food supplements", saying the NIS has a well laid out system on food supplements for sportspersons.

Rooney will be offered new contract, says Ferguson

Manchester United's England striker Wayne Rooney will be offered a new contract before his deal ends in 2015, the club's manager Alex Ferguson was quoted as saying by British media on Sunday.

Drug haul: Factory of Arjuna awardee's kin searched
A factory belonging to relatives of an Arjuna award winner was on Sunday searched by Punjab police in a village in Fatehgarh Sahib in the wake of recovery of 26 kg haul of heroin with a street value of Rs 130 crore. Defending champ Saina starts as top seed in Swiss Open

After a semifinal finish at the All England Championship, ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal will now look to defend her title at the Swiss Open Grand Prix Gold where she starts as the top seed in the women's singles competition.

NADA unlikely to test Vijender Singh

Olympic bronze-medallist Vijender Singh is unlikely to be tested by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) despite claims by his sparring partner Ram Singh that the star boxer consumed small amounts of heroin.

We mistook drugs for food supplements, says boxer Ram

In a massive blow to star Indian boxer Vijender Singh, his friend Ram Singh has claimed that the Olympic bronze-medallist consumed drugs with him on a few occasions but insisted that the duo mistook the contraband for food supplements.

Drug haul: Boxer Ram Singh expelled from National camp

Indian boxing's image continued to take a massive beating with the Sports Authority of India on Sunday expelling Olympic medallist Vijender Singh's roommate Ram Singh from the national camp here after he confessed to consuming drugs.

March 09, 2013

Egypt's soccer riot sentence sparks widespread violence

An Egyptian court, on Saturday, upheld death sentences against 21 convicts of last year's deadly soccer riot that killed 74 people, and acquitted 28 others, sparking off widespread violence in the deeply polarised country.

FA Cup: Wigan shock Everton to reach first semis

Wigan Athletic scored three times in four wild minutes on Saturday to stun Everton 3-0 at GoodisonPark and reach the semi-finals of the FA Cup for the first time in the club's 81-year history.

Saina's All England dream over as she loses in semi-finals

Star Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal's dream of winning her maiden All England Championship went up in smoke as the Indian suffered a straight-game defeat to World No. 8 Intanon Ratchanok of Thailand in the semifinals of the women's singles competition in Birmingham on Saturday.

Wrestling to hold extraordinary congress in Moscow

The world wrestling federation (FILA) will hold an extraordinary congress in May to elect a new president as the ancient sport battles to maintain its place on the Olympic programme.

Lahiri retains title after play-off at SAIL-SBI Open

India's Anirban Lahiri successfully defended his title at the SAIL-SBI Open following a thrilling play-off victory over compatriot Rashid Khan in New Delhi on Saturday.

Pistorius challenges strict bail conditions in murder case

Lawyers acting for "blade runner" Oscar Pistorius, accused of shooting dead his girlfriend, want his bail conditions relaxed and passports returned so he can travel overseas, South African media reported.

Chandhok named for FIA Drivers' Commission

The FIA World Motor Sport Council on Saturday nominated Indian racer Karun Chandhok to be part of the newly created Drivers' Commission, which will be headed by two-time world champion Emerson Fittipaldi.

Saina enters All-England semi-finals

London Olympics bronze medallist Saina Nehwal advanced to the semi-finals of the All-England Badminton Championships with a hard-fought victory over sixth seeded Chinese Shixian Wang on Friday. The second seeded Indian ace, who got the better of Belaetrix Manuputi of Indonesia in the previous round, won 23-21, 19-21, 21-16 in 30 minutes.

Azlan Shah Hockey: India go down to Australia in opener

A young Indian side put up a spirited fight before going down 3-4 to six-time champions Australia in the opening encounter of the Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey tournament in Ipoh on Saturday.

Balotelli helps 10-man Milan sink Genoa

Mario Balotelli came off the bench to help 10-man AC Milan record a 2-0 victory at Genoa on Friday that tightened their grip on third place in Serie A ahead of Tuesday's Champions League return match with Barcelona.

Drug haul case: Kahlon attempts suicide
One of the key accused in the drug haul case from Zirakpur allegedly attempted suicide, even as Punjab Police maintained that no decision has been taken yet on summoning boxer Vijender Singh after the Olympic medallist's name cropped up.

March 08, 2013

'We have to fix the problems we have in wrestling'
Wrestling will implement a string of immediate changes as the sport seeks to win back its Olympic spot with time fast running out, acting international federation (FILA) president Nenad Lalovic said on Thursday. India welcome IOC move to meet minister to end deadlock

India has welcomed the IOC's invitation to attend a meeting at its headquarters in Switzerland and sees it as a positive step towards its return to the Olympic fold, a top government official told Reuters on Friday.

I am shocked, don't have links with drug dealer: Vijender

In a fresh development, the investigating officers have revealed that the man arrested with heroin did not mention Vijender Singh. The boxer is only being probed because of the car found outside that Zirakpur flat.

Saina romps into All-England quarter-finals

London Olympics bronze medallist Saina Nehwal advanced to the quarter-finals of the All-England Badminton Championships with a straight games victory over Belaetrix Manuputi of Indonesia, in London, on Thursday night. The world No 2 Indian ace won 21-16, 21-11 in 34 minutes to set up a meeting with sixth seeded Chinese Shixian Wang on Saturday.

March 07, 2013

Ousted Pistorius detective quits SA police

The South African detective, pulled off the investigation of athletics star Oscar Pistorius for murder after it emerged he himself faces attempted murder charges, has resigned from the force, police said on Thursday.

Kashyap, Sindhu in All-England pre-quarters

Parupalli Kashyap booked a place in the pre-quarter-finals of the All-England Badminton Championships after a straight games victory over Jen Hao Hsu of Chinese Taipei on Thursday. The world No 9 Indian ace won his first round match 21-17, 21-18 in 43 minutes. He now runs into seventh seed Kenichi Tago of Japan.

IOC calls joint meeting of IOA, sports minister
In a significant move towards resolving the issues that led to India's ban from the Olympic family, the International Olympic Committee has asked the Indian Olympic Association to fix a date, in consultation with the Sports Minister, for a meeting before the end of this month in its headquarters in Lausanne. Apologetic McIlroy promises walk off will not happen again

Facing the media for the first time since his controversial withdrawal at PGA National, McIlroy said it soon dawned on him that he had made the wrong decision.

All England: Saina edges past Sapsiree to enter last 16

Olympic bronze medallist Saina Nehwal on Wednesday made a positive start to her campaign at the All England Championship by notching up a difficult three-game victory over Sapsiree Taerattanachai of Thailand to reach the pre-quarter-finals.

March 06, 2013

Somdev bows out of Indian Wells Masters qualifiers
Somdev Devvarman's bid to enter the main draw of the Indian Wells ATP Masters tournament fell flat as he lost the opening round of the qualifiers in straight sets to Italian 27th seed Matteo Viola. Mourinho, Real march on towards elusive 10th title

Jose Mourinho has been on the ropes at times this season as Real Madrid's La Liga title defence stumbled but the Portuguese coach delivered knockout blows to heavyweight opponents this week that kept the Spanish club's hopes of silverware very much alive.

United midfielder Giggs makes 1,000th appearance

Ryan Giggs made his 1,000th competitive appearance when Manchester United kicked off their Champions League last-16 second leg against Real Madrid at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

NRAI going by govt, IOC rules

National Rifle Association of India president Raninder Singh has made an appeal to not politicise the federation's upcoming elections and said its constitution is not in conflict with the government's sports code and the IOC.

Barcelona to appeal Valdes four-match ban

Barcelona will appeal a four-match ban handed to goalkeeper Victor Valdes after he furiously berated the referee at the end of Saturday's 2-1 defeat at Real Madrid, the La Liga leaders said on Wednesday.

March 05, 2013

McIlroy regrets decision to withdraw from Honda Classic

Rory McIlroy has admitted he was wrong to withdraw from the Honda Classic last week, saying he now regretted his decision to stop playing.

Barca coach Vilanova could be back with club soon

Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova may have finished his cancer treatment in New York and be back with the squad by the end of March, president Sandro Rosell said on Monday.

Man United's Jones ruled out of Real match

Manchester United's Phil Jones will miss the Champions League last 16 second leg at home to Real Madrid after failing to recover from an ankle injury, manager Alex Ferguson said on the eve of Tuesday's match.

Police, fans hurt in trouble after Bosnian game
Nineteen police officers and two supporters were injured in crowd trouble after a Bosnian first division soccer match in Sarajevo on Saturday, police said on Monday.

March 04, 2013

Blake to run at opening Doha Diamond League meeting

Jamaica's 100 metres world champion Yohan Blake is the first high-profile athlete to sign up for the opening Diamond League event in Doha, organisers said on Monday.

Vijay appointed advisor of Delhi's new shooting range
The capital has got a new state-of-the-art 10-meter shooting range, which will have London Olympics silver medallist marksman Vijay Kumar as its advisor. Rankings: Somdev leapfrogs 65 places to 250

Continuing to reclaim lost ground in the ATP rankings, Somdev Devvarman jumped 65 places to 250th to be India's best-placed singles player in the list issued on Monday.

China ropes in Beckham to revive football image

China has named former England captain David Beckham as its first global football ambassador to revive the game's image which has been hit by a match-fixing scandal and an exodus of international stalwarts from the country's premier league.

Saina leads a record Indian field in All England C'ship

Olympic bronze medallist Saina Nehwal will return to Great Britain with a renewed hope of clinching the prestigious All England title but a tough draw awaits her in the women's singles of the Super Series Premier event, which starts with the qualifiers in Birmingham on Tuesday.

South Korea drop Park for World Cup qualifier

Spain-based striker Park Chu-young has been left out of South Korea's 23-man squad for this month's World Cup qualifier against Qatar, the country's football association said on Monday.

Tokyo an inspirational choice for Games, Abe tells IOC

Tokyo would be an inspirational choice to host the 2020 Olympic Games, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told Olympic officials on Monday, with Japan keen to showcase its recovery from a devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami.

Gulbis captures second Delray Beach title

Ernests Gulbis celebrated his second Delray Beach International title after edging French journeyman Edouard Roger-Vasselin 7-6, 6-3 on Sunday.

Second-string Bayern cruise past Hoffenheim

Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich effortlessly cruised to a 1-0 victory at Hoffenheim on Sunday courtesy of a Mario Gomez goal that kept them on course for the title with a 17-point advantage at the top.

Atletico fail to take full advantage of Barca loss

Atletico Madrid squandered a chance to cut the gap to stuttering La Liga leaders Barcelona to nine points when they were held to a 0-0 draw at fourth-placed Malaga on Sunday.

March 03, 2013

Jeev misses cut in South Africa

Five dropped shots in a matter of three holes saw Jeev Milkha Singh plummet from being a contender to missing the cut in the second round of the Tshwane Open at the Copperleaf Golf & Country Estate in Centurion, on Sunday.

Advani eyes corporate lift to continue pro circuit journey

India's top cueist Pankaj Advani seeks corporate help to help him play a second season of the pro circuit in London.

Suhr sets world record in indoor pole vault

Olympic champion Jenn Suhr lit up the US indoor athletics championships on Saturday by leaping 5.02 metres to set a new women's pole vault world record.

March 02, 2013

Wrestling champion goes on hunger strike over games axe

Double Olympic wrestling champion Armen Nazaryan has decided to go on a hunger strike to protest against the sport's possible exclusion from the Games.

Injury-time goal gives India 2-1 win over Taipei
India struck the winner in the injury time through striker Robin Singh as they began their AFC Challenge Cup Qualifiers campaign with a 2-1 victory over Chinese Taipei in Yangon on Saturday. Qatar must hold winter World Cup, says Platini

The 2022 World Cup in Qatar must be held in winter in order to protect players and fans from searing desert heat, European football boss Michel Platini said on Saturday.

QPR's Redknapp rejects team drinking reports

Queens Park Rangers manager Harry Redknapp has rejected allegations that several players from his Premier League bottom side often stayed out until 5 a.m. drinking alcohol at a training camp in Dubai last month.

FIFA praises Lebanon for matchfixing response

FIFA has praised Lebanon for taking action against matchfixing and has requested more details about the sanctions it recently imposed on players and officials, world soccer's governing body has said.

Zurich Chess: Anand beats Kramnik to finish second

World champion Viswanathan Anand capitalised on a blunder by Vladimir Kramnik of Russia to beat him in the final round and finish second in the Zurich Chess Challenge that concluded in Zurich.

Serena 'yelled' at for trying to photograph Woods

Tennis World No. 1 Serena Williams found herself in trouble with security officials at the PGA Tour's Honda Classic on Friday after she tried to photograph Tiger Woods.

Spurs driven by last season's stumble, says Villas-Boas

One year after his axing by Chelsea left a dent in his ego Andre Villas-Boas finds his reputation soaring again as high-flying Tottenham Hotspur prepare to host north London rivals Arsenal in a match of huge significance.

March 01, 2013

Van Persie fit for action after hip injury

Manchester United's top scorer Robin van Persie has shaken off a hip injury and will be fit for Saturday's Premier League game at home to NorwichCity, manager Alex Ferguson said on Friday.

I cannot rest on past laurels, says Chhetri
India skipper Sunil Chhetri, who had struck a hat-trick in the final when India won the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup, stressed on the importance of not resting on past laurels and said he is focussed on leading the team's campaign in the AFC Challenge Cup Qualifiers. Jeev in tied 3rd in Tshwane Open

Jeev Milkha Singh exploded into superb form on the back-nine with four birdies to card a five-under 67 and grab a share of the third spot after the first round of the Tshwane Open in Centurion, South Africa.

Australian Olympic chief deems WADA testing 'ineffective'

The World Anti-Doping Authority's prescribed testing is 'ineffective' at catching drug cheats and should be supplemented by criminal penalties for athletes who refuse to cooperate with investigations, Australia's Olympic chief has said.

Manipur Govt grants Mary Kom land for boxing academy

London Olympics bronze-medallist M C Mary Kom has finally been alloted the plot of land promised to her by the Manipur government to expand her boxing academy.

Wrestling faces tough fight to pin down Olympic spot
As a former chief executive of the United States Olympic Committee, Jim Scherr knows better than most the daunting challenge facing wrestling as the sport tries to avoid being tossed from the Games. French doping agency will do Tour de France testing
The French Anti-Doping Agency (AFLD) has agreed to carry out testing at the Tour de France in June.

February 28, 2013

Rs 8.30 crore for anti-doping in budget
A hike of Rs 214 crore was allocated to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, with Finance Minister P Chidambaram earmarking Rs 1219 crore for it in the 2013-14 budget presented in Parliament on Thursday. In his Budget presented in the Lok Sabha, Chidambaram allocated Rs 1093 crore as plan outlay while Rs 126 crore was set aside for non-plan. NBA: Thunder roll on with massive win over Hornets
Kevin Durant landed a triple double as the Oklahoma City Thunder recorded a 119-74 blowout victory over the outclassed New Orleans Hornets on Wednesday. Anand Pawar reaches German Open pre-quarters
Indian shuttler Anand Pawar notched up a straight-game win over sixth seed Viktor Axelsen to join compatriot Ajay Jayaram in the pre-quarterfinals of the German Open badminton championship in M lheim an der Ruhr, Germany.

February 27, 2013

Sports Minister writes to IOC seeking wrestling review
Sports Minister Jitendra Singh on Wednesday wrote to the International Olympic Committee (IOC), urging the world body's Executive Board to reconsider its decision to remove wrestling from the 2020 Summer Games roster. Was Pistorius' slain girlfriend pregnant?

Oscar Pistorius' slain girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp was pregnant on the night of her killing, according to explosive allegations that came into light in the US.

AIBA denies approving IABF constitution

Threatening the IABF with an extended spell of suspension, the International Boxing Association (AIBA) has rejected the barred body's claim of getting approval for its amended constitution, calling it a "work in progress" for the time being.

AFC probes Lebanon matchfixing report

The Asian Football Confederation are investigating a report of matchfixing in Lebanon, the regional body told Reuters on Wednesday, after the World Cup hopefuls handed out punishments to 22 players for rigging games.

Can't be looking at the draw anymore: Kashyap

Gearing up for the All England Championship, India's top male shuttler P Kashyap said the "challenging" draw does not bother him as he can beat anyone on a given day.

German Open: Jayaram, Anand and Arvind enter 2nd round

Indian shuttlers Ajay Jayaram, Anand Pawar and Arvind Bhat reached the second round of the German Open badminton championship after notching up contrasting victories in their respective men's singles matches at Mulheim an der Ruhr, Germany.

NBA: LeBron scores 40 as Heat topple Kings

LeBron James and Dwyane Wade combined for 79 points as the Miami Heat prevailed 141-129 in a double overtime marathon against the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday.

Henry, Red Bulls hope latest changes finally bring glory

The New York Red Bulls head into this weekend's new Major League Soccer (MLS) season hoping that their latest personnel reshuffle will finally deliver a maiden title after an 18-year wait.

FA Cup: Everton end Oldham run in replay, Wigan next

Everton ended third-tier Oldham Athletic's giantkilling FA Cup run with a 3-1 victory in their fifth round replay on Tuesday to tee up an all Premier League quarter-final against Wigan Athletic.

February 26, 2013

Bolt to run 200 in Paris Diamond League meeting

Six-times Olympic champion Usain Bolt will race over 200 metres at the Paris Golden League meeting on July 6 as part of his buildup for the Moscow world athletics championships in the following month.

NBA: Wizards discover some second half magic as surge continues

With just five wins from their first 33 games there was certainly nothing magical about the Washington Wizards' start to the National Basketball Association (NBA) season.

Somdev breezes past Kunitsyn to enter 2nd round

India's Somdev Devvarman entered the second round of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship beating Russia's Igor Kunitsyn in straight sets, in Dubai.

Laudrup signals intention to stay with Swansea

SwanseaCity coach Michael Laudrup is flattered by Real Madrid fans wanting him to return to the club as their next manager but said on Monday he intends to stay in Wales next season.

West Ham pay tribute to England hero Moore

Bobby Moore's grandchildren led the teams out before West Ham United played Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League at Upton Park on Monday as his former club marked the 20th anniversary of his death.

King's Cup Clasico: Barca seeking all-round improvement

Barcelona need to be more efficient in front of goal and iron out defensive lapses if they are to beat Real Madrid in the King's Cup last four, assistant coach Jordi Roura and midfielder Cesc Fabregas said on Monday.

February 25, 2013

Pistorius faces random bail checks for drugs and alcohol

South African Olympic and Paralympic track star Oscar Pistorius, charged with murdering his girlfriend, faces at least four random tests for drugs and alcohol in coming months to ensure he is complying with bail terms, an official said on Monday.

Alonso, Benzema return for King's Cup 'Classico'

Real Madrid should have midfielder Xabi Alonso and forward Karim Benzema back from minor injuries for Tuesday's King's Cup semi-final second leg at holders Barcelona, coach Jose Mourinho said on Monday.

AIBA approves IABF's amended constitution

After the lifting of suspension on Indian boxers, the barred Indian Amateur Boxing Federation has got another shot in the arm with the world body, AIBA, approving its amended constitution.

CONCACAF supports changes to FIFA presidency terms

CONCACAF, which represents soccer in North and Central America and the Caribbean, has backed a proposal to limit the FIFA presidency to two four-year terms and to impose an age limit of 72 for the president.

NBA: Bryant silences Cuban with 38 points in Lakers' win

Kobe Bryant fired back at Dallas owner Mark Cuban with 38 points as he lifted the Los Angeles Lakers past the Mavericks 103-99 on Sunday.

Mancini not looking at the table for another month

ManchesterCity manager Roberto Mancini understands better than most the cliches about title races not being over until the final minute of the season and is therefore refusing to look at the Premier League table.

Falcao keeps 10-man Atletico perfect at home

Radamel Falcao's penalty ensured 10-man Atletico Madrid preserved their 100 percent home record in La Liga with a 1-0 victory over resurgent Espanyol on Sunday.

Happy Beckham delights PSG in his French debut

Former England captain David Beckham enjoyed a promising French league debut for Paris St Germain, riding warm crowd support in a late cameo during the 2-0 home victory over Olympique Marseille on Sunday.

Match Play Championship: 'Amazing feeling' for Kuchar

Matt Kuchar felt as if he ruled the golfing world on Sunday after landing his first World Golf Championships (WGC) title with a 2&1 victory over Hunter Mahan in the Accenture Match Play Championship final.

Acupuncture can help athletes perform better

Researchers have now reviewed four studies on the effects of acupuncture on an individual before and after an exercise-session. Based on their observations, they suggest the therapy can act as a performance enhancer for athletes.

Shunned by govt Indian fencers arrange for own funds

Left to themselves to find the resources to participate in next month's Asian Junior and Cadet Championships in Thailand, the Indian fencers finally managed to raise funds and will now take part in the event under Fencing Confederation of Asia (FCA) banner.

Japan starts petition site to keep wresting in Olympics
Japan launched an online petition site with the aim of submitting 100,000 signatures to the International Olympic Committee to keep wrestling in the Olympics, reports Kyodo

February 24, 2013

Haryana beat J&K 3-1 in Santosh Trophy
Riding on twin strikes from Vikas, Haryana beat Jammu and Kashmir 3-1 in a Group C match to keep their semi-final hopes alive in the Santhosh Trophy. India thrash Bangladesh in Hockey World League
Danish Mujtaba scored a brace as India came from behind to beat a gritty Bangladesh 5-1 in their final round robin match and qualify for the third round of the Hero Hockey World League at the floodlit Major Dhyan Chand Stadium. Bopanna-Fleming win Open 13 title
Rohan Bopanna won his first title of the season when he combined with Colin Fleming to claim the ATP Open 13 doubles trophy with a straight-sets win over Aisam-ul-haq Qureshi and Jeal-Julien Rojer in Marseille on Sunday. Hockey World League: Indian eves pip Russia 1-0
India defeated Russia by a solitary goal in their final round-robin match to top the standings in the women's competition and progress to the third round of Hero Hockey World League at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi. Dhoni's team wins first race of World Super Bike C'ship

Mahi Racing Team India began their World Supersport Championship campaign with a bang when their lead rider Kenan Sofuoglu of Turkey comfortably won the first race of the season at the Philip Island, Australia on Sunday.

Pistorius's brother faces trial in woman's road death

Oscar Pistorius's elder brother faces trial for killing a woman in a traffic incident five years ago, the family said on Sunday, confirming a report that dominated South African media two days after the "Blade Runner" athlete was bailed for murder.

Myanmar Open: Gangjee opens season with top-10

Indian golfer Rahil Gangjee carded a sedate two-under 70 to open his season with a fine top-10 finish at the Zaykabar Myanmar Open on Sunday.

Dutt livid over IOC's decision to drop wrestling

Yogeshwar Dutt, Indian Olympic grappler and 2012 Olympics bronze medallist, has strongly objected to the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) decision to exclude the sport from the 2020 event.

Kvitova claims 10th tour title with Dubai victory

Former Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova claimed her 10th singles title after defeating Sara Errani 6-2, 1-6, 6-1 in the final of the Dubai Championships on Saturday.

Kenya's Maisei third time lucky in Hong Kong marathon

Julius Maisei learnt his lesson from two failed early breaks to time it just right at the third time of asking and win the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon on Sunday.

Kimetto takes Tokyo record as Kenyans sweep podium

Dennis Kimetto claimed his first marathon victory in only his second race over the distance when the Kenyan won the Tokyo Marathon in a race record time on Sunday.

Nishikori to meet Lopez in Memphis, Erakovic wins title

Japan's Kei Nishikori will meet Spain's Feliciano Lopez in the final of the US National Indoor Tennis Championships after besting Australian Marinko Matosevic in the semi-finals in Memphis on Saturday.

Two major scalps put Day into last four

Jason Day found it nerve-racking at the end but he could not keep the smile off his face after beating the Masters champion and a former US Open winner on Saturday at the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship.

NBA: Clippers rebound with big win over Jazz

The Los Angeles Clippers registered a comprehensive 107-94 win over the Utah Jazz at the StaplesCenter on Saturday to rebound from their thrashing at the hands of San Antonio Spurs on Thursday.

Wrestlers fume as Indian cricketers back squash

Cricket stars like Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag supporting squash's bid for inclusion in the 2020 Olympics has left India's wrestling fraternity distraught.

Anand draws with Caruana in Zurich Challenge opener

World champion Viswanathan Anand played out an easy draw with Fabiano Caruana of Italy in the first round of the Zurich Chess Challenge that got underway in Zurich.

'Pistorius must live with his conscience'

South African Paralympic star Oscar Pistorius will have to live with his conscience after he shot dead his girlfriend on Valentine's Day and said it was a tragic mistake, the victim's father Barry Steenkamp was quoted as saying in the local media.

February 23, 2013

Gangjee in tied fifth in Myanmar Open

A second successive flawless round of 67 brought India's Rahil Gangjee into contention for his first Asian Tour title since 2004, as he moved within three shots of leader, Thailand's Chawalit Plaphol, at the $300,000 Zaykabar Myanmar Open in Yangon on Saturday.

India boxers to participate under AIBA flag

The International Boxing Federation (AIBA) has decided to allow Indian boxers to participate in competitions approved by it under its flag, reversing the world body's earlier decision to bar them in the aftermath of the country's ban by the IOC.

Indian teams make Asian Junior Squash C'ships finals
Indian boys prevailed over Hong Kong 2-1 while the girls team outclassed Malaysia 3-0 to enter the finals of the 16th Asian Junior Squash Championship, in Seoul, South Korea on Saturday. NBA: Jack powers Warriors past weary Spurs

Jarrett Jack came off the bench to score 30 points as the Golden State Warriors rallied past the road-weary San Antonio Spurs for a 107-101 overtime victory on Friday.

Piercy hits another jackpot to stun Donald

Six years after he overcame the odds to earn a $2 million cheque, Scott Piercy landed a different jackpot with a stunning 7&6 victory over Luke Donald at the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship on Friday.

US government sues Armstrong for sponsor money

The United States accused cyclist Lance Armstrong on Friday of defrauding the US Postal Service by taking its sponsorship money at the same time he was doping and using performance-enhancing drugs in violation of cycling rules.

February 22, 2013

AITA: Committee meets, looks at correspondence between 2 parties

The AITA appointed three-member committee to look into players issue had its first meeting on Friday and observed that players-friendly conditions should prevail and for that it would seek help of both the Federation and the government.

NBA: Heat win ninth straight, tighten grip on East

The Miami Heat tightened their grip on the Eastern Conference by routing the Chicago Bulls 86-67 on Thursday.

ATP Open 13: Bopanna-Fleming in semis

Rohan Bopanna and his British partner Colin Fleming fought their way to the semifinals of the ATP Open 13, edging past James Cerretani and Adil Shamasdin, in Marseille.

Corinthians to play behind closed doors after fan's death

Reigning Libertadores Cup champions Corinthians have been ordered to play their upcoming home matches in the tournament behind closed doors, after their fans were accused of killing a young Bolivian supporter with a thrown firework, Brazilian media reported late on Thursday night.

Aussie swimmers admit doping before London Olympics

James Magnussen and his teammates from the Australian men's 4x100m freestyle relay squad have admitted using a sedative banned by their national Olympic committee in a bonding session before the London Games.

Pistorius bail decision expected in court

A judge is likely to decide on Friday whether to grant bail to Oscar Pistorius, with prosecutors arguing he is a cold-blooded killer and his own lawyers that he is far too famous to have any chance of fleeing prosecution.

Match Play C'ship: McIlroy, Woods go out on day of upsets

World No 1 Rory McIlroy and three-times winner Tiger Woods were both sent packing in stunning fashion in the snow-delayed first round of the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship on Thursday.

Gangjee sizzles with 66, five Indians make cut in Myanmar

Nine years after making his Asian Tour debut here in Yangon, Indian golfer Rahil Gangjee on Friday celebrated that memory with a superb six-under 66 that carried him up to tied 14th at the midway stage of the Zaykabar Myanmar Open golf tournament in Yangon, Myanmar.

Errani into Dubai final after winning all-Italian semi

Sara Errani beat doubles partner Roberta Vinci 6-3, 6-3 in a subdued all-Italian semi-final at the Dubai championships on Friday.

Alonso, Benzema out of Real match at Deportivo
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has left midfielder Xabi Alonso and forward Karim Benzema out of his squad for Saturday's La Liga game at bottom side Deportivo La Coruna as they continue their recuperation from minor injuries. Somdev, Yuki may return; Bhupathi, Bopanna unlikely

Top singles players Somdev Devvarman and Yuki Bhambri are likely to return to the Indian Davis Cup team as the national selectors meet to pick the squad for the tie against Indonesia, in New Delhi on Saturday.

Sania-Bethanie in final of Dubai Tennis Championships

Sania Mirza earned a shot at her second title of the season with partner Bethanie Mattek-Sands as they reached the final of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, in Dubai on Friday.

February 21, 2013

Hockey World League: Lacklustre India prevail over Ireland
A lacklustre India had to sweat it out before pipping Ireland 3-2 for their third consecutive win in the men's competition of the Hero Hockey World League at the floodlit Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi. Indian athletes to miss out on two Asian events
Indian athletes are likely to miss out on two important upcoming Asian sporting events as a result of the confusion and power struggle following the Indian Olympic Association's suspension by the IOC. Saina stays at No. 2, Kashyap slips out of top-10
Ace Indian shuttler Parupalli Kashyap slipped out of the top-10 bracket but Olympic bronze medallist Saina Nehwal continued to hold on to her second position in the latest World badminton ranking issued in New Delhi. 'We will try to keep Asian Athletics C'ship in India'
The Athletics Federation of India (AAI) has said that it would try its best to hold the Asian Athletics Championship in another city of the country after the prestigious event, schedule to be held in Chennai, was shunned by the Tamil Nadu government. Chennai won't host Asian Athletics meet over SL protests
The Chennai government is refusing to host the Asian Athletics Championships in July in protest against Sri Lanka for alleged war crimes that targeted Tamil Tiger rebels. Junior fencers can't represent India at Asian event

India's junior fencing team will not be able to participate in the Asian Junior and Cadet Championship scheduled to be held in Thailand under the national flag owing to IOC's ban on India.

Nike halts Pistorius deal to protect brand

Nike froze its contract with "Blade Runner" Oscar Pistorius on Thursday after he was charged with murdering his girlfriend, the latest in a series of scandals to hit athletes sponsored by the sportswear giant.

Ministry issues fresh deadline to Sports Federations
The Sports Ministry has issued a fresh deadline to all National Sports Federations, which have not amended their constitution in accordance with the sports code, to make their position clear by February 28, failing which their government recognition could be "impacted". Pistorius faces new charge over unlicensed ammunition

Paralympic star Oscar Pistorius is set to face a fresh charge of possessing unlicensed ammunition after firearm was recovered from his home by the police during the investigation into the death of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, the Pretoria Magistrate's Court heard.

Lead Pistorius detective dropped from case

The lead detective in 'Blade Runner' Oscar Pistorius' murder investigation was taken off the case on Thursday after it emerged he was facing seven attempted murder charges for opening fire on a minibus full of passengers.

Armstrong ignores USADA deadline to cooperate in probe

The United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) will push ahead with efforts to clean up cycling without help from Lance Armstrong after the disgraced cyclist rejected another deadline to meet anti-doping investigators by Wednesday.

Federer plays big brother to village kids at charity event

The Roger Federer Foundation supports 40 pre-schools in the area and spends over $3 million a year on educational projects in South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Ethiopia and Federer's home country Switzerland. Over 50,000 children benefited from the foundation's efforts in 2012 to improve quality education in pre-schools and primary schools.

Graph: How the soccer match-fixing syndicate works

The multi-billion dollar soccer industry was shaken to its core earlier this month when European police and prosecutors said hundreds of games may have been rigged in a match-fixing syndicate being run from Singapore.

February 20, 2013

Serena pulls out from Dubai with back injury

Serena Williams withdrew from the Dubai Championships because of a lower back injury just minutes before she was due on court for a second round match against Frenchwoman Marion Bartoli on Wednesday.

Advani set to miss Asian Billiards Championship

Faced with a tough choice to decide between two top tournaments due to clash of dates, eight-time World champion Pankaj Advani is all set to skip the Asian Billiards Championship to take part in the World Championship Qualifiers, both scheduled in the first week of April.

Ministry writes to IOC to review decision on wrestling
Describing wrestling's omission from the 2020 Summer Games as against the Olympic tradition, the Sports Ministry asked India's representative in the IOC Randhir Singh to urgently take up the matter with the Executive Board and request the world body to reconsider its decision. Wenger warns 'will be missed' once he leaves Arsenal

Under pressure Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has hinted towards leaving the north London club on Tuesday at the Emirates stadium.

Stosur eases through in Dubai, Azarenka pulls out

Grand Slam winners Samantha Stosur and Petra Kvitova strolled into the second round of the Dubai championships with straight sets wins on Tuesday after Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka withdrew due to a foot injury.

News media relations with Obama hit low ebb over golf weekend

Relations between the White House and the correspondents who cover it, always edgy and adversarial, have hit a low ebb in a dispute over whether the press should have access to the president during his downtime.

AFC, INTERPOL begin seminar to tackle match-fixing

No continent has escaped the 'cancer' of football match-fixing and it is too big a problem for one organisation to tackle alone, AFC acting president Zhang Jilong warned as the regional body and INTERPOL kicked off a two-day seminar on the issue on Wednesday.

Wrestling rolls dice, selects Las Vegas for Worlds

Las Vegas will host the 2015 World wrestling Championship in the first qualifier for what could be wrestling's final appearance as an Olympic sport in the 2016 Rio Games.

FA Cup: Bradford long for happy ending to fairytale run

An excited youngster stocked up on flags for his Wembley trip and the players spoke of fairytales as BradfordCity prepared for the last chapter in a giant-killing run that has lifted the gloom around the club.

Maradona dreams of son playing with Messi, Aguero boys

Diego Maradona dreams of seeing his newborn son Diego Fernando playing for Argentina with the offspring of Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero, he said on Tuesday.

Poignant evening ahead for low-profile Barca coach Roura

Barcelona's Champions League match at AC Milan on Wednesday will be a poignant affair for interim coach Jordi Roura as he returns to the stadium where he suffered an injury that ultimately forced him to end his career.

Tsunami survivor Deborah is a top cyclist now
She was left scurrying for shelter into the forests during the 2004 Tsunami which had devastated the coasts of Andaman and Nicobar Islands but nine years down the line, Deborah has not only reshaped her life but also emerged as the country's top cyclist. Testosterone found in Pistorius bedroom - S.Africa police
South African police found two containers of testosterone and needles in the bedroom of Paralympic track star Oscar Pistorius, a detective testifying at his murder bail hearing said on Wednesday. Witness heard 'non-stop shouting' from Pistorius home

A witness heard "non-stop shouting" in the home of athletics star Oscar Pistorius shortly before his girlfriend was shot dead, the lead detective in the murder investigation said on Wednesday.

Randhir Singh expects global amateur ban to be lifted

Indian International Olympic Committee (IOC) member Randhir Singh is confident the world amateur boxing federation (AIBA) will soon lift its ban on the country's pugilists, the official told Reuters on Wednesday.

February 19, 2013

Text: Pistorius Affidavit at Pretoria bail hearing

Following are the central extracts of the court affidavit of Paralympic star Oscar Pistorius, who is accused of murdering girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp last week.

Had no intention to kill Reeva: Pistorius

South African olympian Oscar Pistorius put on his artificial legs and walked across his bedroom before firing four shots through a locked bathroom door, killing his cowering girlfriend in cold blood, prosecutors said on Tuesday.

I want to clean up boxing mess: Vijender

Beijing Olympic bronze-medallist Vijender Singh said given a chance he would not mind stepping in clean to up the mess that the Indian Amateur Boxing Federation finds itself in following the ban imposed by the International Boxing Association (AIBA).

Pistorius could lose Paralympic medals

Oscar Pistorius could lose his London 2012 Paralympic medals after sporting federations and anti-doping agencies claimed they were monitoring developments in South Africa following reports that banned steroids were found from 'Blade runner's home during the murder investigation of his girlfriend.

Pistorius' slain girlfriend's texts' to hold key

Oscar Pistorius' girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp's text messages to a South African rugby player is set to play a key to investigations into her death as banned steroids reportedly found in the Paralympic star's home.

'Toxic' culture fuelled Aussie swimming flop

Slack management allowed a "culturally toxic" environment to develop in Australia's swimming team at the London Olympics with abuse of alcohol and prescription drugs as well as flouting of curfews and bullying going unchecked, a review said on Tuesday.

Fund crunch may force Pakistan to skip Azlan Shah

Pakistan will not be able to send its national team for Azlan Shah tournament in Malaysia next month and the junior team to Singapore unless the government released the promised funds, Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has said.

Cilic rallies past Dodig in Memphis opener

Marin Cilic struggled early before finding his rhythm as the top seed ground out a 4-6, 6-2, 6-3 victory over friend and Croatian compatriot Ivan Dodig in the first round of the Memphis International on Monday.

Ivanovic reaches Dubai second round, Stephens bows out

Former French Open champion Ana Ivanovic beat Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-3, 7-6 in the first round of the Dubai tennis championships on Monday while US teenager Sloane Stephens was eliminated in three sets to cap a miserable debut trip to the Gulf.

Los Angeles Lakers owner Jerry Buss dies at 80

Jerry Buss, who parlayed a $1,000 real estate investment into ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers, winning 10 National Basketball Association championships and making the team one of the most glamorous in American sports, died on Monday at 80, the team said on its official website.

Ronaldo donates 100k euros to help Afghan landmine victims

Real Madrid's soccer player Cristiano Ronaldo donated 100,000 euros on behalf of UEFA to help rehabilitate Afghans who have lost limbs, mostly landmine victims, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said on Wednesday.

Pistorius back in court for murder bail hearing

"Blade Runner" Oscar Pistorius, the South African double amputee who became one of the biggest names in world athletics, is due in court for a second time on Tuesday to apply for bail after being charged with murdering his girlfriend.

February 18, 2013

Top international stars for Indian Badminton League
Top badminton stars, including two-time All England champion Tine Baun of Denmark and world No.4 Indonesian Sony Dwi Kuncoro will participate in the inaugural edition of the US$ 1 million Indian Badminton League. Lyngkhoi, Babbar to represent India in Asian Marathon
Mumbai Marathon winners, Binning Lyngkhoi and Lalita Babbar, will represent India in the men's and women's section of the 14th Asian Marathon Championship to be held in Hong Kong (China) on February 24. Wilshere says Arsenal must show Chelsea spirit

Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere says his team must take Chelsea's spirit into Tuesday's Champions League, last-16 first-leg clash with Bayern Munich if they are to keep alive their hopes of salvaging something from a mediocre season.

Shiva gets IOC scholarship, Winter Games dream still alive

Left in lurch after denial of government funding, Indian luge competitor Shiva Keshavan has found support from the IOC, which has granted him the Olympic Solidarity Scholarship to compete in the qualifiers for the 2014 Sochi Winter Games.

Anand wins Grenke Classic in a thriller

World champion Viswanathan Anand notched up his first title of the year when he scored an emphatic victory over German Arkadij Naiditsch to lift the Grenke Chess Classic trophy in Baden Baden, Germany.

NBA: Durant leads West over East in All-Star game

Kevin Durant and Blake Griffin provided a potent mix of outside shooting and inside dominance to lift the Western Conference to a 143-138 victory over the Eastern Conference in the NBA All-Star game on Sunday.

CL: Porto's Colombian duo lined up to sink Malaga

In-form Malaga must brace themselves for a barrage of attacking football from Porto's Colombian Jackson Martinez and his returning compatriot James Rodriguez when they meet at the Dragao Stadium for their Champions League last 16 first leg on Tuesday.

Raonic wins third straight San Jose title

Canada's Milos Raonic beat Tommy Haas 6-4, 6-3 on Sunday to win his third straight San Jose Open title and bring the final curtain down on the second oldest men's professional tournament in the United States.

Pistorius cancels race appearances after murder charge

Paralympic star Oscar Pistorius has cancelled all his scheduled track appearances in the next few months to allow him to concentrate on defending himself against a murder charge in his native South Africa, his agent said.

La Liga: Real survive Ramos red, Atletico end away blues

Real Madrid survived an early red card for Sergio Ramos to see off city rivals Rayo Vallecano 2-0 at the Bernabeu on Sunday, matching the wins of La Liga leaders Barcelona and Atletico Madrid over the weekend.

Merrick earns first PGA Tour win in playoff

Local favourite John Merrick won his first PGA Tour title by beating fellow American Charlie Beljan in a sudden-death playoff for the Northern Trust Open at Riviera Country Club on Sunday.

In a first, Obama playing golf with Tiger Woods

President Barack Obama had an intimidating partner for a round of golf on Sunday -- Tiger Woods, the World's No. 2 ranked player, according to a report.

Azarenka topples Serena to win in Doha

Outgoing World No. 1 Victoria Azarenka showed that being second best was not an option for her as she outclassed Serena Williams 7-6, 2-6, 6-3 to win the Qatar Open on Sunday.

February 17, 2013

Pistorius accused of assaulting two women in rock concert

A fuming music fan has accused Oscar Pistorius of assaulting two women at a rock concert after getting drunk, saying the Paralympic and Olympic star pushed her and a friend and then branded them lesbians when they complained.

Police find blood-covered cricket bat at Pistorius's home

South African police have found a bloodied cricket bat at the home of Oscar Pistorius, a local newspaper reported on Sunday.

Lusofonia Games: OC quits after Kalmadi aide named advisor
Tainted Commonwealth Games official, Rajkumar Sacheti has been appointed as 'advisor' for this year's Lusofonia Games by the Goa government, leading to the resignation of the Organising Committee chairman.

February 16, 2013

Sharath in 2nd round of ITTF Kuwait Open Super Series

Ace Indian paddler Sharath Kamal on Saturday advanced to the second round of the ITTF Kuwait Open Super Series table tennis tournament after a 4-2 victory over Hampus Soderlund of Sweden in Kuwait City.

Wrestling: BJP asks govt to intervene for 'national pride'

The BJP on Saturday termed the dropping of wrestling in the 2020 Olympics as an "international conspiracy" and urged the Indian government to intervene in the interest of "national pride".

FA Cup: Blackburn knock out Arsenal

Arsenal suffered a second humiliation in two months against lower league opponents when Blackburn Rovers beat them 1-0 in the fifth round of the FA Cup on Saturday.

Pistorius, girlfriend were planning future

South African athlete Oscar Pistorius was planning a future with girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, who he is accused of shooting in cold blood this week, his uncle said on Saturday.

Farah to make marathon debut in 2014 London race

Britain's double Olympic champion Mo Farah will run the first half of this year's London marathon prior to making his debut over the full distance in the 2014 race.

Nigeria heroes Mikel and Moses can lift Chelsea: Benitez

The return of African Nations Cup heroes John Obi Mikel and Victor Moses will add an extra dimension to Chelsea's squad for the last three months of the season, interim manager Rafael Benitez said.

Wrestling chief resigns following IOC snub

The president of wrestling's world governing body FILA resigned on Saturday less than a week after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) recommended that the sport be dropped from the 2020 Summer Games.

Doping-IOC plans conference on WADA role amid strained ties

The International Olympic Committee is planning a conference on the role of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to improve the drugs in sport watchdog's deteriorating ties with international federations and national Olympic committees.

Bayern open 18-point lead with 2-0 win at Wolfsburg

Runaway leaders Bayern Munich won 2-0 at VfL Wolfsburg on Friday with goals from Mario Mandzukic and Arjen Robben to move a massive 18 points clear at the top of the Bundesliga.

Pistorius under 'suicide watch' in prison

South African Paralympic and Olympic star Oscar Pistorius is under suicide watch in prison after fears emerged that the traumatized sprinter might try to take his own life following charges he premeditatedly killed his model girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp.

Sharapova too good for Stosur in Qatar
Maria Sharapova continued her untroubled progress at the Qatar Open on Friday, brushing aside Australia's Samantha Stosur 6-2, 6-4 to reach the semi-finals. Balotelli helps Milan grab 2-1 win over Parma

A stunning Mario Balotelli free-kick gave AC Milan a 2-1 win over mid-table Parma in Serie A on Friday that put them level with third-placed Lazio and a point ahead of rivals Inter Milan in the race for European places.

Now a basketball player? You must be Usain

Usain Bolt, do not quit your day job. The world's fastest man played in a celebrity basketball game on Friday in the run-up to Sunday's NBA All-Star game and failed to impress the crowd -- or himself -- with his skills.

Federer backs squash for 2020 Games inclusion
As arguably the greatest ever tennis player, Roger Federer is urging Olympic officials to back another racket sport by including squash in the programme for the 2020 Games. Grenke Chess: Anand held by Meier again
World champion Viswanathan Anand was held to a draw by Georg Meier of Germany for the second time in the Grenke Chess classic now underway in Baden-Baden.

February 15, 2013

Advani's dream run ends; loses in quarters

Pankaj Advani lost to world No 2 Judd Trump of England in the last-eight of the BetVictor Welsh Open Pro Snooker Series at Newport, Wales, on Friday.

United to make changes for Reading FA Cup clash

Manchester United will ring the changes for their FA Cup fifth-round clash with Reading on Monday, but manager Alex Ferguson still expects his new-look side to get through against the Premier League strugglers.

Xavi may be back from injury for Milan clash: Roura

Barcelona playmaker Xavi may recover from a hamstring injury in time to feature in Wednesday's Champions League last 16 first leg at Serie A side AC Milan, interim coach Jordi Roura said on Friday.

East German Olympic shot put champion admits doping

Former East German Olympic shot put champion and three-time world record breaker Udo Beyer has admitted doping in a new documentary film about the lives of top athletes in the socialist state.

Pistorius disputes murder charge - agent
South African 'Blade Runner' Oscar Pistorius disputes a murder charge laid against him on Friday "in the strongest possible terms," his agent said in a statement. After HIL, women's league on the cards: Hockey India

The unprecedented success of the inaugural Hockey India League has prompted the national federation (Hockey India) to plan a similar franchise-based event for the women players in future.

Hockey World League: Form of goalkeepers concern Sardar

Both P R Sreejesh and P T Rao did not have the best of outings in the inaugural Hockey India League and national hockey team captain Sardar Singh feels goalkeeping is an area of concern for the hosts ahead of the Hockey World League 2 to be held here from February 18-26.

Pistorius was in an emotional state: Lawyer

Oscar Pistorius' lawyer has claimed the Paralympic star was in an emotional state, but holding up following his arrest in connection with the shooting of his girlfriend at his Pretoria home.

Czech Zahlavova Strycova given six-month doping ban
Czech tennis player Barbora Zahlavova Strycova has been given a six-month ban for a doping offence, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) said on Thursday. NBA: James' record streak ends as Heat overcome Thunder

LeBron James continued his sizzling form with 39 points in the Miami Heat's 110-100 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday but missed a late three-pointer to bring his record scoring streak to an end.

February 14, 2013

Nadal pulls out of Brazil doubles

Former world number one Rafa Nadal withdrew suddenly from the doubles at the Brazil Open on Wednesday because of what organisers said was a desire to preserve his strength for the singles competition.

Paralympian Pistorius accidentally shoots girlfriend

South African paralympic star Oscar Pistorius is being questioned by South African police for shooting dead his girlfriend at his home in Pretoria, domestic media said on Thursday.

Sutil at Force India for seat-fitting ahead of test

Adrian Sutil moved closer to a return to Formula One after the German driver visited the Force India factory for a seat-fitting on Thursday.

Advani rewrites history, enters quarters of Welsh Open

Pankaj Advani continued his dream run in the Welsh Open Pro Snooker Series as the eight-time world champion on Thursday rewrote history by entering the quarter-finals of a major ranking event, defeating Scotland's Graeme Dott 4-1 at Newport, Wales.

Pistorius ads pulled off air by South African TV Channel
South Africa's M-Net cable TV channel is pulling campaign adverts featuring 'Blade Runner' Oscar Pistorius off air with immediate effect, a company official said on Thursday. Pistorius to appear in SA court on Friday

South African Olympic and Paralympic athletics star Oscar Pistorius will appear in court on Friday after being charged with murdering his girlfriend, a spokesman for the National Prosecuting Authority said on Thursday.

February 13, 2013

'Embattled UCI boss McQuaid has IOC support'

International Cycling Federation (UCI) president Pat McQuaid enjoys the support of the International Olympic Committee despite the sport's tarnished image and the UCI's bitter row with the World Anti-Doping Agency, the IOC said.

IOA, WFI hopeful of wrestling staying in Olympics
Describing wrestling's omission from the 2020 Olympics as demoralising, the IOC-recognised IOA and the Wrestling Federation of India hoped that the sport would be brought back on the schedule after reconsideration. Welsh Open: Advani creates history, enters pre-quarters

Pankaj Advani on Wednesday created history by becoming the first Indian cueist ever to reach the pre-quarterfinals of the BetVictor Welsh Open Pro Snooker Series, defeating former world champion, England's Shaun Murphy, 4-3 at Newport, Wales.

NBA: LeBron James sets new shooting mark

LeBron James' red-hot shooting hit record level on Tuesday as he became the first NBA player ever to score 30 points while shooting 60 percent in six straight games.

NBA: Gay drains winning basket as Raptors stun Nuggets

Rudy Gay drained the game-winning shot in the final seconds as the rejuvenated Toronto Raptors withstood a furious fightback from the Denver Nuggets for a 109-108 victory over one of the NBA's hottest teams on Tuesday.

Grenke Chess: Anand to meet Adams after rest day

World Champion Viswanathan Anand will take on Michael Adams of England in the opening round of the second half of Grenke Chess Classic in Baden-Baden, Germany.

Pakistan close to an Olympic ban: IOC

Pakistan could soon join neighbours India as Olympic outcasts with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Tuesday considering suspending the country over what it said was government interference.

February 12, 2013

Russian weightlifter stripped of Athens bronze medal
Russian weightlifter Oleg Perepetchenov was stripped of his 2004 Olympic bronze medal on Tuesday after a retest of his sample from the Athens Games returned positive for banned substance clenbuterol. China produces most raw doping materials: WADA

Virtually all the raw materials used by criminal gangs throughout the world to produce illegal performance-enhancing drugs come from China, World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) director general David Howman said on Tuesday.

NBA: Spurs top Bulls without injured trio

San Antonio Spurs protected their NBA-best record with an impressive 103-89 victory over Chicago Bulls on Monday despite missing three top players through injury.

PSG are more like Real than Barca: Valencia coach

Valencia are expecting a counter-attacking team such as Real Madrid rather than a possession-hungry side like Barcelona when they host Paris St Germain in the Champions League on Tuesday, coach Ernesto Valverde said.

Grenke chess: Anand beats Naiditsch; jumps to 2nd spot
World Champion Viswanathan Anand came up with a sterling effort to beat German Grandmaster Arkadij Naiditsch in the fifth round of Grenke chess Classic in Baden-Baden, Germany. Federer calls for biological passports to detect doping

World No. 2 Roger Federer has called for the introduction of biological passports in tennis similar to those used in cycling to detect possible doping.

Barca's Villa admitted to hospital due to illness

Barcelona forward David Villa has been admitted to hospital due to a bout of renal colic and may be unavailable for Saturday's league game at Granada, the La Liga leaders said on Monday.

Real Madrid thrash United in the financial stakes

Since Real Madrid last played Manchester United, getting a 6-5 aggregate win in the 2002-03 Champions League quarter-finals, the Spanish side have given their English rivals a thorough drubbing in the financial arena.

UCI harden anti-corticoid stance

The International Cycling Union (UCI) has toughened up its anti-doping policy by imposing an eight-day rest on riders following an injection of corticoids, it said on Monday.

Rathore, Sodhi to lead Indian challenge in Shotgun World Cups

Athens Olympics silver medallist Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore and Ronjan Sodhi will spearhead Indian challenge at the ISSF Shotgun World Cups in Mexico and United Arab Emirates in March and April.

Six Aussie rugby league clubs investigated over doping

Anti-doping officials have met with six top-flight Australian rugby league clubs named in a national probe into the use of banned performance-enhancing drugs that has sent shockwaves through the sports-mad country.

IABF agrees to amend its constitution
The suspended Indian Amateur Boxing Federation has incorporated the government guidelines on age and tenure in its amended constitution and has requested the Sports Ministry to re-recognise the body for falling in line. IOC recommends to cut wrestling from 2020 Olympics

Wrestling should be removed from the 2020 Olympic Games, the International Olympic Committee's Executive Board said in a surprise recommendation on Tuesday as it looks to revamp the Games sports programme.

Sports Ministry says, IABF not recognised body

The Sports Ministry on Tuesday refused to attach too much importance to Indian Amateur Boxing Federation's (IABF) request for government's intervention saying it is "not a recognised body".

February 11, 2013

Former Barcelona fitness trainer to teach Indian coaches

The 41-year old Dutchman has worked with some of the best tacticians in the business like Guus Hiddink, Dick Advocaat and Frank Rijkaard, tasting success at both international and club level.

NRAI bars three officials from elections
The National Rifle Association of India barred its three officials, who occupy key positions in the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), from taking part in its elections on April 6, a few days after giving affiliation to Meghalaya and Mizoram. Is boxing federation chairman Chautala on his way out?
Indian Amateur Boxing Federation's (IABF) Chairman, Abhay Singh Chautala, could be on his way out as the IABF has decided to remove the nominated post from its amended constitution sent to AIBA for approval. Jones a doubt for United's Bernabeu trip

Manchester United midfielder Phil Jones is a doubt for the first leg of the Champions League last 16 tie against Real Madrid on Wednesday after injuring his calf against Everton.

Champions League: Haves take on have-nots as PSG meet Valencia

Paris St Germain's trip to Valencia in the Champions League on Tuesday pits the wealthy French team against one of many La Liga clubs struggling to stay competitive after years of financial struggle.

Grenke Chess Classic: Anand slips to draw again

World champion Viswanathan Anand missed out on a winning advantage and played out a draw with Daniel Fridman of Germany in the fourth round of the Grenke Chess Classic in Baden-Baden, Germany.

NBA: Clippers beat Knicks in clash of division leaders

Reserves Jamal Crawford and Eric Bledsoe led a fourth-quarter surge that carried the visiting Los Angeles Clippers to a 102-88 victory over the New York Knicks in a battle of NBA division leaders on Sunday.

Australia names Briton Nathan new athletics chief

Simon Nathan, who helped Britain's athletics team clinch four golds medals at the London Olympics, has been named Australia's high performance director of athletics.

Zeballos surprises Nadal to win Chilean Open

Argentine Horacio Zeballos sprung a major surprise by beating Rafael Nadal 6-7, 7-6, 6-4 to win the Chilean Open on Sunday and clinch the first title of his career.

United praying Ronaldo does not emulate namesake

The Champions League provides a crackerjack of a fixture on Wednesday when Real Madrid hot-shot Cristiano Ronaldo faces Manchester United, the club where he made his name, for the first time.

Sizzling Snedeker wins Pebble Beach title

FedExCup champion Brandt Snedeker finally reaped just reward for his red-hot early form on the PGA Tour this year when he eased to victory by two shots at the Pebble Beach National Pro-Am on Sunday.

February 10, 2013

Advani beats Ebdon to qualify for Welsh Open

Pankaj Advani added another feather to his illustrious cap as the eight-time world champion became only the second Indian cueist to qualify for the main draw of Welsh Open Pro Snooker Series.

PT Usha looking for sponsors for Luka

P T Usha feels "frustrated sometimes" at the lack of corporate interest in athletics and said despite running from pillar to post, she has failed to find a sponsor for her protege Tintu Luka.

Fit-again Sushil eyes return at Asian Championship

After missing the Dave Schultz Cup due to a shoulder injury, star Indian wrestler Sushil Kumar is now eyeing a return at the Asian Wrestling Championships starting from April 18 to 22.

Olympic champion Bolt beaten in season opener

Jamaican Olympic sprint champion Usain Bolt was beaten in his first race of the 2013 season on Saturday, finishing third in a low-key 400 metre event in his hometown of Kingston.

Grenke Chess: Anand draws with Meier
World champion Viswanathan Anand played out his third draw on the trot, forced to sign peace with lowest-ranked Georg Meier of Germany in the third round of the Grenke Chess Classic

February 09, 2013

Salgaocar beat Shillong Lajong in I-League tie
Salgaocar scored a facile 2-0 win over Shillong Lajong to move away from the relegation zone in the 20th round of the I-League played at Duler stadium in Mapusa on Saturday. Kolkata derby ends in goalless draw
Mohun Bagan and East Bengal played out a drab goalless draw in the return leg I-League derby which was watched by just one fourth capacity crowd at Yuba Bharati Krirngan (YBK) in Kolkata on Saturday. Hero to sponsor FIH events in India for next four years
The International Hockey Federation (FIH) signed a major sponsorship deal with two-wheeler giant Hero MotoCorp for all events of the world body to be held in India in the next four years. Deadlock ends as rebels agree to play next Davis Cup tie

The five-week long tennis crisis ended as all the 11 rebel players made themselves available for the tie against Indonesia, a day after All India Tennis Association gave all the assurances with regard to Davis Cup playing conditions in writing.

Plenty of room for Real improvement, says Modric

Luka Modric is still struggling to find his feet at Real Madrid but is sure he will end up winning over sceptical fans in the future, the Croatia midfielder said.

Anand held by Caruana; slips to joint third
World champion Viswanathan Anand slipped to joint third after being held to a draw by second seed Fabiano Caruana of Italy in the second round of the Grenke Chess Classic in Baden-Baden, Germany. Damning drug report fuels anger in Australia

Australian sports administrators responded angrily to a government report saying doping was widespread among professional and amateur athletes and demanded investigators name offenders to protect clean athletes' reputations.

Nadal creates athlete, event management company

Rafa Nadal has set up his own company to manage athletes and organise events with his long-term agent Carlos Costa, the world number five announced on Saturday.

Hockey India League: Waveriders-Rhinos set up summit clash
Delhi Waveriders scored a clinical 3-1 win over Jaypee Punjab Warriors to set up the title clash against Ranchi Rhinos in the inaugural Hockey India League in Ranchi. Bhullar's eight-under leads Punjab Lancers to the top

Gaganjeet Bhullar was in his element as he carded a stunning, error-free eight-under for the 14-hole round to lift his team, Wital See Punjab Lancers, to the top of the table on the second day of the inaugural Pearls Golf Premier League in Aamby Valley.

Hockey India League: Brilliant Rhinos beat Wizards to enter final
Mandeep Singh and Nick Wilson scored twice each to help hosts Ranchi Rhinos beat Uttar Pradesh Wizards 4-2 in a thrilling encounter and enter the summit clash of the inaugural Hockey India league in front of a packed Astroturf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi.

February 08, 2013

AITA communicate all offers in writing to rebel players

In its last ditch effort to break the deadlock, the All India Tennis Association communicated all the offers with regard to playing conditions in writing to the rebel players and also asked for their availability for the upcoming tie against Indonesia.

Russian long jumper Kotova suspended for doping

Russian long jumper Tatyana Kotova has been provisionally suspended after failing a drugs test at the Helsinki 2005 world championships, the Russian anti-doping agency (RUSADA) said on Friday.

Koevermans names probables for AFC Challenge cup

National football coach Wim Koevermans today named 30 probables for the preparatory camp for the AFC Challenge Cup Qualifiers scheduled to be held in Myanmar capital of Yangon from March 2-6 with no major surprises in the list.

Australian betting on football club suspended

Bookmakers suspended betting on an Australian Rules club on Friday due to doping claims, as police warned of significant match-fixing risks due to large Asian betting pools, citing A$40 million in wagers on one local soccer match.

'Doping has become a universal problem'
A massive awareness needed to be created among sportspersons, coaches and even doctors to deal with the menace of doping in sports, said Dr P S M Chandran, president of Indian Federation of Sports Medicine. Grenke Chess Classic: Anand settles for draw

World champion Viswanathan Anand played out a fighting draw with Michael Adams of England in the first round of the Grenke Chess Classic that got underway in Baden-Baden, Germany.

Transfer systems needs changing to close wealth gap, says EC

Football's transfer system needs to be reformed to allow a fairer distribution of wealth in the game, the European Commission said in a report.

Portsmouth face League exit threat over new bidder

Third tier Portsmouth will lose league status if they do not exit administration by the end of the season and if a takeover by the Pompey Supporters' Trust (PST) does not succeed, the Football League said on Thursday.

Ex-PM says Australia's sports image 'torpedoed' by doping report

A damning report into doping in Australian sport has "torpedoed" the country's identity as a nation of fair play and investigators must quickly name the athletes and teams involved, according to former prime minister Kevin Rudd.

Armstrong sued over $12 mn in Tour De France prize money

Disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong on Thursday was sued by a company that paid him about $12 million for three of his seven Tour de France wins that have since been stripped from him for his use of banned drugs.

Lakers' Gasol out at least 6-8 weeks with foot injury

The injury-hit Los Angeles Lakers were dealt another major blow on Thursday with the news that forward Pau Gasol is expected to be sidelined for at least six to eight weeks with a foot injury.

Beckham hopes to emulate Giggs and Scholes in PSG role

David Beckham does not expect to be a regular starter at Paris St Germain but he hopes to adopt the same role as Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes perform at his old club Manchester United, the former England captain said on Thursday.

February 07, 2013

Ranchi Rhinos beat Mumbai Magicians in HIL
Mumbai Magicians ended their campaign on a disappointing note after going down 0-1 to Ranchi Rhinos in the final league game of the Hero Hockey India League at Mumbai Hockey Association Stadium. FIH mulling to introduce club World Cup in India: Negre

After football and cricket, hockey is the latest sport which is set to introduce a world championship of clubs with the International Hockey Federation (FIH) mulling a Club World Cup to be held in India from next year.

UP Wizards end Delhi Waveriders' unbeaten run
It took an inspired performance from the Uttar Pradesh Wizards to finally stop the Delhi Waveriders juggernaut from rolling as they thrashed the home team 4-1 in their final round-robin match of the Hockey India League at the floodlit Major Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi. Balotelli fined by police after airport row: Reports

Mario Balotelli's troubles have followed him back to Italy after media reports on Thursday said the AC Milan striker was fined by police following a row over his parked car at a city airport.

GPL: No ambition of turning pro in future, says Mahela

Sri Lankan cricket legend and owner of Colombo 6's franchise in the Golf Premier League, Mahela Jayawardene has no ambition of turning pro in the future, but would not mind getting a tip or two from established golfers such as Darren Clarke and Angel Cabrera.

Adebayor's dash back set to lift Spurs

Tottenham Hotspur striker Emmanuel Adebayor is racing to get back in time from the African Nations Cup with fellow forward Jermain Defoe ruled out for as long as three weeks for the striker-light club.

Russia's Putin sacks official over Olympic delays
President Vladimir Putin dismissed a senior Russian Olympic Committee official on Thursday because of delays in construction work for the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. Poonia inks 2-year sponsorship deal with Hindustan Zinc

Star discus thrower Krishna Poonia signed a two-year sponsorship deal with Hindustan Zinc Limited on Thursday.

London event drops taxes to lure Bolt for July meet

Olympic sprint champion Usain Bolt and other overseas athletes will be able to compete tax-free in this year's London Diamond League event at the Olympic Stadium after the British finance minister agreed to a "one-off" exemption.

Russia will be ready for 2014 Winter Olympics: Putin

President Vladimir Putin told Olympic chiefs on Wednesday that Russia would have its facilities ready in time to host the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi, despite rising costs and concerns about corruption and humans rights abuses.

Australia report says drug use in sports 'widespread'
The use of performance enhancing drugs is "widespread" among professional and amateur athletes in Australia, a government report which rocked the sports-mad country said on Thursday. Australia to crack down on match fixing in sport

The Australian government promised on Thursday to crack down on match fixing and the growing influence of organised crime on sports after a major investigation found links between doping and crime may have led to manipulated results.

USADA extends deadline for Armstrong to cooperate

The US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) has given disgraced American cyclist Lance Armstrong two more weeks to cooperate fully in an investigation into cycling's darkest episode in return for a possible reduction of his life ban.

'Mary Kom can take part in 2016 Olympics'

Chief Boxing Coach of India G S Sandhu on Thursday said that London Olympic bronze medallist M C Mary Kom still has enough talent to represent the country in at least one more Olympic games.

'India lacks sports medicine experts'
The number of sports medicine experts required to improve the standard of sports is desperately lacking in the country, lamented Indian Federation of Sports Medicine president Dr P S M Chandran.

February 06, 2013

India's special athletes win record medals
India's differently-abled athletes returned with the largest haul of medals in the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games at Pyeong Chang, South Korea. I need to adjust to new rules in 2013: Bindra

Ace Indian shooter Abhinav Bindra said adjusting to the newly introduced rules will remain a priority for him in the 2013 season.

Somdev in 2nd round of Zagreb ATP event

A resilient Somdev Devvarman saved a match point before wearing out German Michael Berrer in the opening round of the ATP Zagreb Indoor event on Wednesday.

Armstrong will not be prosecuted for doping: US official

Disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong's public admission that he took performance-enhancing drugs will not change US prosecutors' decision to spare him of criminal charges, an attorney who oversaw the federal investigation said.

February 05, 2013

Costantini approaches TTFI for second stint
Former Indian table tennis chief coach, Massimo Costantini has expressed interest in taking up the top job with the Table Tennis Federation of India, which has in turn asked the Italian to revert back with his terms and conditions. Adlington retires from competitive swimming

Double Olympic champion swimmer Rebecca Adlington has retired from competition to concentrate on grassroots coaching, the 23-year-old said on Tuesday.

Pallikal wins sixth WSA title in Canada

India's Dipika Pallikal won her sixth Women's Squash Association (WSA) title of her career after outplaying Joey Chan of Hong Kong in straight games in the summit clash of the Meadowood Pharmacy Open in the Canadian city of Winnipeg.

February 04, 2013

NRAI bars Chautala's cronies from IOA polls
The National Rifle Association of India has barred all state association officials, who sided with Abhay Singh Chautala's faction in the last IOA elections, from voting in its April 6 polls on the directive of ISSF and the International Olympic Committee.

February 03, 2013

We had a better chance on faster court: SP Misra
The slow courts were best suited to the players who chose to skip the tie and had V M Ranjeet and Vijayant Malik competed on a fast surface, the hosts would have a better chance of winning the Davis Cup tie against South Korea, the Indian team said in one voice. Indians win 20 medal in Special Olympics Winter Games
Indian athletes have won 20 medals, including six gold, in the ongoing 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games at Pyeong Chang, South Korea. Hockey India League: Waveriders thrash Wizards 3-0
A clinical all-round display helped Delhi Waveriders thrash Uttar Pradesh Wizards 3-0 and maintain their supremacy in the Hero Hockey India League, at the Dhyan Chand Astroturf Stadium in Lucknow. India lose Davis Cup tie after Ranjeet's defeat
A charged up V M Ranjeet put up a spirited fight before losing while Vijayant Malik suffered a tame defeat as India, without its top players, lost the Asia/Oceania Group I Davis Cup tie against South Korea 1-4 in New Delhi on Sunday.

February 02, 2013

Kapur close to win after four-shot lead at Kensville

Shiv Kapur carded a flawless seven-under 65 in the penultimate round to grab a four-shot lead over Andrew McArthur (71) of Scotland at the Gujarat Kensville Challenge in Ahmedabad on Saturday.

Jeev climbs into top-5 at Dubai Classic

Indian golfer Jeev Milkha Singh had a brilliant par-birdie-eagle start as he went on to compile a second successive five-under 67 that catapulted him to tied fourth with one more round to go in the Omega Dubai Desert Classic on Saturday.

Liverpool's Sterling charged with assaulting woman

Liverpool and England winger Raheem Sterling has been charged with assaulting a woman and the case will go to court later this month.

February 01, 2013

Waveriders continue invincible run, beat Rhinos 5-2
Table leaders Delhi Waveriders extended their invincible run in the Hockey India league as they trounced Ranchi Rhinos 5-2 at the Astroturf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi. NRAI, Sports Ministry set for collision course
The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) will be conducting its elections on April 5, but the body could find itself on a collision course with the government, as not all of its provisions are in accordance with the sports code. Koreans enjoy easy day but insist task not over
Smiling ear to ear after grabbing a 2-0 lead in the Davis Cup tie against India, South Korean captain Yong II Yoon said it turned out easier than expected for his team but the task is yet to be finished. Davis Cup: Debutants Ranjeet, Malik suffer defeats
Bereft of its top players, India risk losing the Asia-Oceania Group I tie against Korea as the hosts conceded a 0-2 lead on opening day after debutants V M Ranjeet and Vijayant Malik suffered contrasting defeats in their singles matches in New Delhi on Friday. Golfer Singh withdraws from Phoenix Open

Vijay Singh pulled out of the Phoenix Open on Thursday before the start of the first round, a day after admitting he had used deer antler spray which contains an ingredient banned by the PGA Tour.

I played my best game, insists Ranjeet
He managed to hold serve just once in the entire match but an unfazed V M Ranjeet said he played his best game in what turned out to be a nightmarish Davis Cup debut against South Korea's Min Hyeok Cho in New Delhi on Friday.

January 31, 2013

Brazil stadium fence felled by "avalanche" celebration
Several fans were injured when a fence collapsed during the so-called "avalanche" celebration at a Libertadores Cup match in Brazil. O'Meara calls for ban on Vijay Singh

Twice major winner Mark O'Meara believes former world number one Vijay Singh should be suspended by the PGA Tour after the Fijian admitted to using a spray to treat an injury which contains a banned substance.

Steffensen banned after racial allegations dismissed

Controversial 400 metre runner John Steffensen has been given a six-month suspension by Athletics Australia (AA) for bringing the sport into disrepute after an independent investigation dismissed his claims of racial vilification.

Doping king doc will not be forced to give client names
Spanish doctor Eufemiano Fuentes, on trial for allegedly masterminding a doping ring in cycling, will not be obliged to identify any of the clients whose frozen blood was found in bags seized by police, the judge in the case ruled on Wednesday. IOC plans to cut one sport, add another for 2020 Games
One Olympic sport will learn next month that its Games future is in jeopardy when the International Olympic Committee (IOC) meets to decide the shape of the summer Games from 2020. Singh admits using banned medicine to speed recovery

Former World No 1 golfer Vijay Singh has admitted using deer antler spray, but says he was unaware the extract contained an insulin-like growth factor that is banned by the PGA Tour.

Punjab Warriors too good for Mumbai Magicians
Punjab Warriors completed their domination over Mumbai Magicians in the Hockey India League by scoring their third win against the hosts with a 3-1 margin at the MHA Mahindra Stadium in Mumbai.

January 29, 2013

Delay in trial of cycling dope mastermind
The high-profile and much-delayed trial of a Spanish doctor accused of masterminding a doping ring in cycling got off to an anti-climactic start on Monday when his testimony was postponed until Tuesday. UCI disbands Armstrong independent commission

Cycling's world governing body has disbanding the Independent Commission which investigated the Lance Armstrong doping scandal in favour of a 'truth and reconciliation process', the UCI said on Monday.

Dominant Woods pockets his 75th PGA title at Torrey Pines

Tiger Woods withstood a late bogey, double-bogey, par, bogey wobble in strengthening winds to end a week of dominant golf by clinching his 75th PGA Tour title by four shots at the Farmers Insurance Open on Monday.

January 28, 2013

Jackson, Mandeep Singh score in Rhinos' win
Dabur Mumbai Magicians' chances of making it to the top four of the Hero Hockey India League suffered another blow as they went down 1-2 to Ranchi Rhinos in an away game at the Astroturf Stadium. Issues between IOC, IOA can be resolved soon: Ministry
With hopes of the ban on the Indian Olympic Association being lifted, Sports Minister Jitendera Singh, on Monday, cleared the air, stating that, if needed, he will meet International Olympic Committee officials in Lausanne.

January 27, 2013

AFI removes contentious clause, calls poll on Feb 24
Faced with the threat of de-recognition from the Sports Ministry, the Athletics Federation of India on Sunday removed a contentious clause from its constitution and called for re-election to three top posts next month. Armstrong, USADA squabble over further probe

An attorney for Lance Armstrong said the disgraced cyclist will not meet the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency's (USADA) deadline for him to answer questions under oath, and suggested his client would rather participate in international efforts to 'clear the air'.

Valencia fight back to see off 10-man Deportivo
Valencia ended a miserable week on a high when they came from behind to snatch a 3-2 win at struggling 10-man Deportivo La Coruna that lifted them to fifth in La Liga on Saturday. Juventus frustrated by Borriello, Lazio shocked
A second-half equaliser by Marco Borriello earned struggling Genoa a 1-1 draw at Serie A leaders Juventus on Saturday, denting the champions' hopes of a second successive title. Australian duo win mixed doubles title
Jarmila Gajdosova and Matthew Ebden became the first locals to win a main draw Australian Open title since 2005 when they clinched the mixed doubles on Sunday. Mourinho shuns Madrid-based media as he turns 50

Under-fire Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho again chose not to face the Madrid-based media as he celebrated his 50th birthday on Saturday but told Italian TV he was certain he would win at least one more Champions League title before he retires.

NBA: Okafor sparks big win for Wizards over Bulls
Washington's Emeka Okafor dominated inside as the improving Wizards stunned the Chicago Bulls 86-73 to record their fifth straight home win on Saturday. Anelka joins Juventus on five-month deal
Former Arsenal, Real Madrid and Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka has joined Juventus on a five-month deal from China's Shanghai Shenhua, the Italian club said on Saturday. Tata chess: Anand beats L'Ami; Carlsen takes unbeatable
World champion Viswanathan Anand fought back from an inferior position to beat Erwin L'Ami of Holland to be joint second at the 75th Tata Steel chess tournament with one round to spare at the De Moriaan in Wijk Aan Zee, The Netherlands.

January 26, 2013

Chennai to host Asian Athletics Meet despite IOC ban
Notwithstanding the IOC ban on the country, India will host the prestigious Asian Athletics Championships in Chennai in July as the continental athletics body gave its go-ahead to the event, in Gurgaon on Saturday. Gangjee earns Asian Tour card; Chopra, Rashid miss out
Faced with the prospect of having no International Tour card to play with, Rahil Gangjee turned in a stunning finish with four birdies in last five holes to finish at five-under in the Final Stage of the Asian tour QualifyingSchool and at tied 21st he earned full playing privileges on the Asian Tour for 2013. Sushil disappointed to miss out on Padma Bhushan

Wrestler Sushil Kumar, the only Indian sportsperson to win back-to-back individual Olympic medals, is disappointed to miss out on the Padma Bhushan award though his name had been recommended.

Sania pulls out of Fed Cup due to hip strain

India's campaign at the Fed Cup has suffered a big jolt even before its start as country's top player Sania Mirza has pulled out of the tournament due to a hip strain sustained during the Australian Open.

Kyrgios, Konjuh win junior titles

Australian Nick Kyrgios and Ana Konjuh of Croatia followed in some famous footsteps on Saturday when they were crowned junior champions at the Australian Open.

USADA sets deadline for Armstrong's full cooperation

The United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) has set disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong a February 6 deadline to fully cooperate in the investigation into cycling's darkest episode in return for a possible reduction of his life ban.

January 25, 2013

Manchester United agree fee for exciting forward Zaha

Premier League leaders Manchester United have agreed a fee to buy exciting young forward Wilfried Zaha from second-tier Crystal Palace, the clubs said on Friday.

Errani and Vinci win Australian Open doubles for Italy

Sara Errani and Roberta Vinci wore down local hopes Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua 6-2, 3-6, 6-2 to become the first Italian pair to win the women's doubles at the Australian Open on Friday.

NBA: Anthony fires Knicks to win over Celtics
Carmelo Anthony and Kevin Garnett showed no signs of any lingering bad blood between them as the New York Knicks snapped their 11-game losing streak in Boston with a 89-86 win over the Celtics on Thursday. Former Olympic champion Robles to retire

Dayron Robles, the 2008 Olympic Games 110 metres hurdles champion and former world record holder, will retire from athletics owing to a lack of attention from Cuban sports officials, his coach said on Thursday.

Europeans propose 12-year limit for FIFA president
Future FIFA presidents should serve an initial term of eight years and a maximum of 12 years overall, European football associations suggested on Thursday. Heavyweight clash on cards at Nations Cup
Holders Zambia and Nigeria go head-to-head on Friday in the first heavyweight clash of the African Nations Cup as they seek to break the stalemate in Group C. Korean defender Yun set for QPR move
South Korean defender Yun Suk-young is set to join compatriot Park Ji-sung at English Premier League strugglers Queens Park Rangers, his Korean side Chunnam Dragons said. Agassi shocked, saddened by Armstrong confession

Andre Agassi was shocked and saddened by disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong's confession to using performance-enhancing drugs and the eight-times Grand Slam champion said tighter, more frequent dope testing procedures in tennis would be good for the sport.

Kalmadi to chair Asian Athletics Association meeting
Commonwealth Games scam-tainted Suresh Kalmadi is all set to chair a crucial meeting of the Asian Athletics Association in New Delhi, which will take stock of the continental championships which is scheduled to be held in Chennai in July.

January 24, 2013

Rhinos hand Wizards their first loss in HIL
Late strikes from Nick Wilson (67th min) and Ashley Jackson (69th min) helped Ranchi Rhinos beat Uttar Pradesh Wizards 3-1 in a Hockey India League match at the Astroturf Hockey stadium in Ranchi. United Sikkim hold Mohun Bagan to a goalless draw
Mohun Bagan struggled to get going against minnows United Sikkim FC to settle for a goalless draw in an I-League fixture at home in Kolkata on Thursday. Hazard apologises to ballboy after League Cup red card

Chelsea's Eden Hazard has apologised for kicking a ballboy who was preventing him from retrieving the ball in the League Cup semi-final against Swansea City on Wednesday.

Bolt eyes three gold at World Championships

Triple London Olympic champion Usain Bolt is injury free and eyeing three gold medals at this year's world championships in Moscow in August.

UCI head McQuaid steps down from IOC committee

International Cycling Union (UCI) chief Pat McQuaid has stepped down as member of the International Olympic Committee panel evaluating 2020 Games bids, citing time constraints, the IOC said on Wednesday.

January 23, 2013

Walker Irfan, two other sportsmen join OGQ list
Walker K T Irfan, who surprised everyone with his creditable 10th place finish at the London Games in the 20km walk race, is a new addition to the list of talented sportspersons supported by the Olympic Gold Quest. Oprah's Armstrong interview viewed by 28 million
Some 28 million viewers worldwide watched Oprah Winfrey's two-part interview last week in which cyclist Lance Armstrong finally admitted he had been taking performance-enhancing substances for years, Winfrey's OWN cable TV channel said on Tuesday. Tottenham post 4.3 million pounds loss
Tottenham Hotspur posted a loss of 4.3 million pounds last season mainly because they did not play in the Champions League, the Premier League club said on Tuesday.

January 22, 2013

Spanish govt accused of covering up drug supplier
The Spanish government has been accused of curbing proof linking footballers and tennis stars to a disreputable doctor who will go on trial in Madrid next week and has been described as a 'one-man Wal-Mart' of doping, according to a report in an English daily. Saints defang Everton and defuse fans' revolt
Southampton threw up a defensive wall around both their goal and their new Argentine manager on Monday, repelling a high-flying Everton side as well as a threatened fans' protest at St Mary's. Betting, match-fixing the big threats: Platini

Match-fixing and illegal betting are the biggest threats to the future of soccer, UEFA president Michel Platini said on Monday.

King's Cup: Villa, Cuenca back for Barcelona

Barcelona had positive news on the injury front on Monday when David Villa returned to training and fellow forward Isaac Cuenca was declared fit after more than seven months out with a knee injury.

Eriksson agrees Al Nasr deal, eyes Beckham

Sven-Goran Eriksson will try to convince former England captain David Beckham to join him at Al Nasr after the experienced Swedish coach signed an 18-month contract as a technical advisor of the United Arab Emirates club.

Pochettino makes solid start with Everton draw

Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino began his reign at the struggling Premier League club with an impressive 0-0 draw against fifth-placed Everton on Monday, three days after taking over from the sacked Nigel Adkins.

African Nations Cup: Zambia, Nigeria make stuttering starts

Zambia's chances of emulating Egypt, Ghana and Cameroon as the only nations to retain the African Nations Cup did not look promising when they began their campaign with a stuttering 1-1 draw against Ethiopia on Monday.

Hockey India League: Warriors, Wizards split points
Jaypee Punjab Warriors and Uttar Pradesh Wizards shared two points each after playing a 2-2 draw in the Hero Hockey India League at the Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar on Tuesday. Del Piero-Dempsey to launch motor racing team

Italian World Cup-winning striker Alessandro Del Piero has joined forces with American actor Patrick Dempsey to launch a new motor racing team which the duo hope to enter in the prestigious Le Mans 24-hour endurance race.

January 21, 2013

Tata Steel chess: Anand held by Sokolov, slips to 2nd

World champion Viswanathan Anand slipped to the second position after he was held to an easy draw by tail-ender Ivan Sokolov of Holland in the eighth round of 75th Tata Steel Chess tournament Wijk Aan Zee, The Netherlands.

Ibrahimovic on target again as PSG back on top

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's domination of the French League continued on Sunday when he scored his 19th Ligue 1 goal as Paris St Germain reclaimed top spot with a clinical 1-0 win at Girondins Bordeaux.

Cole staying at Chelsea, says Benitez

Chelsea's old guard demonstrated that they still have plenty to offer the club on Sunday with left back Ashley Cole signing a new contract and Frank Lampard scoring his 195th goal since arriving at Stamford Bridge.

La Liga: Atletico, Real trim gap on leaders Barcelona

Atletico Madrid took full advantage of Barcelona's defeat at Real Sociedad and closed to within eight points of the La Liga leaders when Adrian and Koke struck in a 2-0 win at home to Levante on Sunday.

January 20, 2013

Hockey India League: Warriors too good for Magicians
Punjab Warriors edged out Mumbai Magicians by 4-2 in a fast-paced Hockey India League encounter at the MHA Mahindra Stadium in Mumbai to notch up their first victory in four games. Bhupathi-Petrova enter second round of mixed doubles
Mahesh Bhupathi joined three more compatriots in the mixed doubles second round of the Australian Open after scoring a straight-set win with partner Nadia Petrova in Melbourne. Mumbai Marathon: Lyngkhoi, Babar top among Indians
Binning Lyngkhoi was the best Indian finisher among men while Lalita Babar successfully defended her title in the women's section in the 10th Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon in Mumbai. Ex-USADA boss rejects Armstrong denial over cash offer

Disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong is not telling the truth by denying his representatives offered a six-figure cash donation to the U.S. Anti Doping Agency (USADA), the body's former chief executive Terry Madden said on Saturday.

Kiprop, Kipketer set course records to win Mumbai Marathon

Uganda's Jackson Kiprop won the 10th Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon on Sunday, setting a new course record of 2 hours, 09 minutes, 54 seconds. Running his first marathon, the 26-year-old eclipsed the course record of 2:09:54 seconds, set by Girma Assefa of Ethiopia two years ago.

January 19, 2013

Two Indians in joint lead at Chennai Open chess
Grandmasters M R Lalith Babu and Henrik Teske of Germany played out a hard-fought draw between them to maintain their lead at the end of the seventh round of the 5th Chennai Open International Grandmasters chess tournament in Chennai on Saturday. First-ever golf auction sees Rs 3.83 crores spent
Indian golf has witnessed the dawn of a new era as more than Rs. 3.83 crores (around $700,000) spent in the auction for 24 players as the inaugural Pearl Golf Premier League was in Mumbai on Saturday. Chowrasia fires best round but wife misses him in action

Shiv Chowrasia's wife will be ruing her decision to stay in bed on Saturday morning after missing out on seeing her journeyman husband shoot the best round of the week at the Abu Dhabi Championship.

Cycling has become much cleaner these days: Schleck

Andy Schleck, who was retroactively awarded the 2010 Tour de France win last year, believed Lance Armstrong when the American said he did not dope after his comeback, the Luxembourger said on Saturday.

Malaysia Open Super Series: Tzu Ying Tai shocks Saina

India's ace shuttler Saina Nehwal suffered a shock straight-game defeat at the hands of world number 12 Tzu Ying Tai of Chinese Taipei in the semifinal to crash out of the Malaysia Open Super Series in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday.

Critics question Armstrong's interview answers

While Lance Armstrong's confession that he used performance-enhancing drugs during his cycling career was praised in some quarters, critics say his interview with talk show host Oprah Winfrey left many important questions unanswered.

Fauja Singh, 101, to run in Mumbai Marathon

Fauja Singh, the world's oldest runner at 101 years of age, is participating in the 10th Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon on Sunday in what could be his first and last appearance in the city. Singh, who lives in London, will run the 4.3 km event for senior citizens.

January 18, 2013

AITA defends Davis Cup selection
Taking strong exception to the comments made by its own vice president, the All India Tennis Association said it was "unethical" to label the team selected for Davis Cup tie against Korea as "third rate" and that the young players were being misled. Saina in Malaysian Super Series semis
London Olympics bronze medallist Saina Nehwal survived a scare from lower-ranked Japanese Nozomi Okuhara to advance to the semi-finals of the women's singles in the Malaysian Super Series, in Kuala Lumpur, on Friday. The top seeded Indian lost the second game 14-21, after winning the first 21-11, but with Nozomi retiring early in the third, she cemented a place into the last four. Manchester United's Fletcher out for rest of season

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher has been ruled out for the rest of the season after having surgery to resolve a bowel condition, the Premier League leaders said.

Doping admission could cost Armstrong millions

Lance Armstrong's admission that he used performance-enhancing drugs during his cycling career could hurt his bank balance as much as his reputation, with one company demanding $12 million from him.

Armstrong must now confess under oath: USADA
Lance Armstrong finally confessed his doping sins to talk show host Oprah Winfrey on Thursday but the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) has now challenged the disgraced cyclist to do the same under oath. West Brom's Reid played against Arsenal with broken leg
West Bromwich Albion right back Steven Reid played the second half of their 2-0 defeat at Arsenal in early December with a fractured fibula, manager Steve Clarke said on Thursday. King's Cup: Atletico beat Betis 2-0 to close on semis

Atletico Madrid took a big step towards the King's Cup semi-finals when Radamel Falcao set them on the way to a 2-0 win at home to Real Betis in their last-eight first-leg on Thursday.

Performance enhancing drugs used in sports
Lance Armstrong's confession that he cheated in international cycling races acknowledges that he used a cocktail of performance-enhancing drugs to try to boost red blood cells, improve strength and stamina, and mask his cheating from anti-doping authorities. Lance Armstrong admits to doping

American cyclist Lance Armstrong had admitted to doping in all of his seven Tour de France victories in his first interview since being stripped of the titles.

January 17, 2013

Mumbai Marathon: Moiben not targeting course record

Lowering the course record is not on defending men's champion Laban Moiben mind as he goes into the 10th Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon on Sunday. He is focusing on only retaining the crown in the US $350,000 event.

IOC strips Armstrong of 2000 Olympics time trial bronze

The International Olympic Committee has stripped Lance Armstrong of his bronze medal from the 2000 Sydney Olympics because of his involvement in doping.

Armstrong's admission a 'striking' moment: Tour director

Lance Armstrong's expected admission of doping will be a "striking" moment but the Tour de France will still thrive, the race director said on Thursday.

Tennis row: Rebel players approach Sports ministry
In a desperate attempt to get back to the Indian Davis Cup team, the 11 rebel players have sought intervention of Sports Ministry to resolve the crisis but their effort is unlikely to bear any fruit with the ministry categorically stating that it has "no role to play in selection matters". Malaysia Open: Saina storms into quarter-finals
On a day she regained her world number 2 status, India ace Saina Nehwal produced a dominant performance to cruise into the quarter-finals of the Malaysia Open Super Series with a straight-game victory over Hong Kong's Pui Yin Yip in Kuala Lumpur. TTFI amends its constitution in tune with Sports Code
Following the Sports Ministry's directive asking all National Sports Federations to fall in line with the Sports Code, the Table Tennis Federation of India has amended its constitution by incorporating the provisions with regard to age and tenure. No choice but to suspend boxers, coaches: AIBA
A miffed International Boxing Association said it was left with no choice but to suspend the Indian boxers and coaches from world events given the "lack of progress" in resolving the electoral mess that led to IABF's suspension late last year. Nadal recovery on course, confirms return next month

Rafael Nadal has passed the latest medical tests on his injured knee, the Spanish tennis federation (RFET) said on Wednesday as the world number four confirmed he would return after more than seven months out at the Brazil Open next month.

Tata Steel Chess: Anand to meet Carlsen

Back with a bang, World champion Viswanathan Anand will be up against World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen of Norway in a much-awaited fifth-round clash of the Tata Steel Chess tournament in Wijk Aan Zee, The Netherlands.

Saudi Arabia sack Dutch coach Rijkaard
Saudi Arabia have sacked Frank Rijkaard as coach of the national soccer team after 18 months in charge, the country's football federation has announced. Pound expects no apologies from Armstrong

Lance Armstrong may be ready to admit to doping and say sorry for his actions but his old nemesis, former-World Anti-doping Agency (WADA) chief Dick Pound, does not expect any apologies coming his way.

Rivaldo signs for new Brazilian club at age 40
Former Brazil midfielder and 1999 World Player of the Year Rivaldo announced on Wednesday he had signed to play for Sao Caetano at the age of 40 until the end of the year. King's Cup: Barcelona held to 2-2 draw by 10-man Malaga

Holders Barcelona squandered a chance to all but seal a probable King's Cup semi-final showdown with Real Madrid when they conceded a late goal to draw 2-2 at home to 10-man Malaga in their last-eight first-leg match on Wednesday.

January 16, 2013

Decision to send Pak players back unfortunate: Oltmans
Hockey India's decision to send back Pakistani players due to cross-border conflict has been termed as "unfortunate" by Uttar Pradesh Wizards' Dutch coach Roelant Oltmans, who feels the Hockey India League will certainly lose its sheen with the departure of the visitors. 'Atmosphere not good from security point of view'

The teams and players coming to India for any sporting event in the future will be subjected to proper scrutiny, the Sports Minister Jitendra Singh said on Wednesday as Hockey India League's Pakistani signings headed home due to simmering tension on the Indo-Pak border.

Unhappy WADA not participating in UCI's Armstrong probe
Friction between anti-doping chiefs and the UCI escalated on Tuesday as WADA decided not to partake in an inquiry set up by cycling's governing body to look into allegations of widespread doping, saying it was too focused on Lance Armstrong. Saina cruises at Malaysia Open; Sindhu loses
London Olympics bronze medallist Saina Nehwal sailed into the second round of Malaysia Open after a straight games victory over Singapore's Gu Juan in the women's singles, in Kuala Lumpur, on Wednesday. However, India's rising star PV Sindhu went down fighting to higher-ranked Tine Baun of Denmark in the first round. US football club end Livestrong stadium deal

Major League Soccer's Sporting Kansas City have ended their stadium naming deal with Livestrong, the cancer foundation started by disgraced former cycling champion Lance Armstrong, the team said on Tuesday.

Armstrong scam could end cycling's time at the Olympics

Cycling could be dumped from the Olympic programme if Lance Armstrong implicated the sport's governing body of covering up a widespread doping scheme, International Olympic Committee (IOC) member Dick Pound told Reuters on Tuesday.

January 15, 2013

Gurusaidutt enters main draw of Malaysia Open
RMV Gurusaidutt made it to the main draw of the men's singles at the Malaysia Super Series, after contrasting victories in the first two rounds of the qualifiers in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday. The Indian shuttler first staved off the challenge from Andre Kurniawan Tedjono of Indonesia, winning 21-23, 21-18, 21-14, and then brushed aside Yan Kit Chan of Hong Kong 21-13, 21-9. Pak Hockey Federation says players safe in India
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has said that eight Pakistan players taking part in the Indian Hockey League in India were safe and there was no security concern regarding their participation in the event. McIlroy reckons Nike deal will improve his game

World No 1 golfer Rory McIlroy praised the clubs of his new sponsor Nike on Monday saying he was hitting the ball further than ever after agreeing a multi-year sponsorship deal with the U.S. sportswear firm.

Armstrong admits to doping during Winfrey interview

His fall nearly complete, disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong finally confessed to using performance-enhancing drugs in an interview on Monday with Oprah Winfrey.

January 14, 2013

Anti-Pakistan protests threaten to derail HIL
A new franchise-based Indian hockey league faces the prospect of being forced out of Mumbai after heightened regional political tensions led to protests against Pakistani players competing in the IPL-style event on Sunday. IOC proposes meeting with Malhotra-led IOA
The International Olympic Committee proposed to hold a meeting with Indian Olympic Association and government representatives while maintaining that it would consider lifting of the ban on India only if the IOA holds elections solely under the Olympic Charter. Puerto Rican boxer Orlando Cruz reveals he is gay

Puerto Rican boxer Orlando Cruz has quite suddenly become a hero to many after becoming the first active athlete in a traditional male sport to announce to the world that he is homosexual.

January 12, 2013

Armstrong to admit to doping in Oprah interview

Lance Armstrong plans to admit to doping throughout his career in an interview with Oprah Winfrey next week, the American cyclist's first interview since being stripped of his seven Tour de France titles, USA Today reported on Saturday.

Swiss laboratory denies helping Armstrong

The director of Switzerland's laboratory for doping analysis has denied allegations that he once told disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong how to avoid being detected for EPO.

British man who threw bottle at Bolt found guilty

A mentally ill British man who shouted abuse at Usain Bolt and threw a beer bottle on the track at the start of the men's Olympic 100 metres final was found guilty of a public order offence on Friday.

January 11, 2013

'Hurt' Zeeshan promises to give his best
A 'hurt' Zeeshan Ali said that his credentials as coach were never in doubt and promised to give his best in the upcoming Davis Cup tie against South Korea despite having an inexperienced side at his disposal. Wenger optimistic over Walcott's Arsenal future

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said he was "optimistic" that England international Theo Walcott will commit his long-term future to the London club and sign a new deal.

Aguero's comeback still a week away, says Mancini

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero will miss Sunday's match against Arsenal and faces another week on the sidelines with a hamstring injury, manager Roberto Mancini said on Friday.

Redknapp holds no grudge against Spurs

Queens Park Rangers manager Harry Redknapp said he does not bear a grudge against former club Tottenham Hotspur and will shake chairman Daniel Levy's hand when the two teams meet in the Premier League on Saturday lunchtime kickoff.

Saina beaten in Korea Open quarter-finals
The Indian challenge ended in the Korea Open Super Series Premier badminton tournament after Olympic bronze medallist Saina Nehwal suffered a stunning quarter-final defeat to China's Li Han in Seoul on Friday. The third-seeded Indian ace was beaten 14-21, 21-15, 12-21 in 59 minutes. Qataris refuse to pay Woods $3 million appearance fee

Tiger Woods may guarantee packed galleries but even the oil-rich Qataris cannot afford the former World No 1's appearance fee for the only European Tour event in the Gulf state.

King's Cup: Barca maul Cardoba 5-0 after Villa double

Barcelona's David Villa proved he still has a sharp eye for goal by scoring twice as the holders cruised into the King's Cup quarter-finals by beating second division Cordoba 5-0 at the Nou Camp on Thursday.

January 10, 2013

Gebrselassie named Mumbai Marathon brand ambassador
Two-time Olympic gold medallist Haile Gebrselassie has been named brand ambassador of the US $3,50,000 tenth Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon, on January 20. Revolting players stick to stand, AITA not worried
The All India Tennis Association (AITA) would be forced to select a depleted side to counter South Korea as none of the eight revolting players has made himself available for Davis Cup selection so far. Saina in Korea Open QF; Kashyap, Sindhu lose
Saina Nehwal sailed into the quarter-finals with a straight games victory, but it was curtains for Parupalli Kashyap and P V Sindhu in the second round of the Korea Open Super Series Premier, in Seoul, on Thursday. London Olympics bronze medallist Saina needed 36 minutes to beat Mingtian Fu of Indonesia 21-16, 21-9 in a women's singles match at the SK Handball stadium. Draft of amended IABF constitution ready
The suspended Indian Boxing Federation (IABF) claims to have taken the first step towards regaining recognition from the International Boxing Association by preparing the draft of an amended constitution which would be compliant with the AIBA statute.

January 09, 2013

Korea Open: Saina, Kashyap, Sindhu reach second round

Top Indian shuttlers, including Saina Nehwal, started the new year on a winning note, reaching the second round of the season-opening Korea Open Premier Super Series in Seoul on Wednesday.

Armstrong offered donation to anti-doping agency?

Disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong once offered to donate nearly $250,000 to anti-doping efforts, the head of the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) tells 60 Minutes Sports in an interview to be aired on Wednesday.

Armstrong to break silence on Oprah's TV show

Lance Armstrong will break his silence about his lifetime ban from cycling and the doping charges made against him in a televised interview with Oprah Winfrey next week, the television presenter announced on Tuesday.

January 08, 2013

McIlroy breaks with first sponsor, Nike waits in wings

World number one golfer Rory McIlroy has parted company with his first corporate sponsor ahead of confirmation of a deal that will make him the new face of sportswear giant Nike.

Will try to learn from Sardar, says Pakistan's Rizwan

Pakistan's star forward Mohammad Rizwan Sr. is a big fan of Indian captain Sardar Singh and wants to pick up a few nuances of the game from him when the two play together for the Delhi Waveriders in the upcoming Hockey India League.

Guardiola says to return to coaching next season

Former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has confirmed he plans to return to management next season after a year's sabbatical.

After superb 2012, Saina starts quest for new highs

After a highly successful 2012, Saina Nehwal will look to start the new year on a winning note when she takes the court at the season-opening Korea Super Series Premier badminton tournament at Seoul on Wednesday.

Olympic swimmer Lochte gets US reality TV series

Gold medal-winning Olympic swimmer and party boy Ryan Lochte will get his own reality television series as he trains with one eye on the 2016 Summer Games and another looking for love, US network E! said on Monday.

FA Cup: Everton cruise past Cheltenham

Everton enjoyed trouble-free progress to the FA Cup fourth round with a 5-1 victory at fourth tier Cheltenham Town on Monday.

Suarez goal raises issue of sporting honesty

Never far from controversy during his career, Liverpool striker Luis Suarez's winner in an FA Cup match on Sunday re-ignited the morality debate in sport -- should the honesty card be played in the heat of battle?

Boateng was 'courageous' to walk off: Blatter

FIFA president Sepp Blatter praised AC Milan midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng on Monday for displaying courage when he walked off the pitch last week in protest at racial abuse.

FACTBOX: Ballon d'or winner Lionel Messi

Factbox on Argentina and Barcelona forward Lionel Messi who won the Ballon d'Or for world player of the year for an unprecedented fourth successive time on Monday.

January 07, 2013

First Look: Paes teams up with Navratilova in Mumbai

Ten years after winning their first Grand Slam titles (Australian Open and Wimbledon) together in 2003, Leander Paes and Martina Navratilova met in Mumbai and shared memories on what made them a winning pair on court and great friends off it.

January 06, 2013

Indians ousted from British Junior Open squash
The Indian challenge ended in the British Junior Open squash tournament after Mahesh Manhaonkar and Kush Kumar

January 05, 2013

Brighton end Newcastle's FA Cup hopes again
Premier League Newcastle United's FA Cup hopes floundered on England's south coast for the second year in a row as Championship club Brighton and Hove Albion kicked off third round action with a 2-0 victory on Saturday. Tipsarevic survives Bedene scare, reaches final

Second seed Janko Tipsarevic of Serbia lived dangerously before prevailing over Slovakia's Aljaz Bedene 4-6, 6-2, 6-2 to enter the final of the Aircel ATP Chennai Open Tennis Tournament in Chennai on Saturday.

Chennai Open: With Somdev's exit, Indian challenge ends

The Indian challenge ended at the Chennai Open tournament with Somdev Devvarman and his Ukrainian partner Sergiy Stakhovsky losing their doubles quarterfinal match to Thai brothers Sanchal and Sonchat Ratiwatana in straight sets.

Armstrong may admit to doping: Report

Disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong, who was stripped of his seven Tour de France titles for doping, is weighing whether to admit he used performance-enhancing drugs, The New York Times reported.

January 04, 2013

Ramaala among top-class field for Mumbai Marathon
Defending men's champion Laban Moiben of Kenya, last year's runner-up Raji Assefa of Ethiopia and third-placed John Kyui of Kenya have all confirmed to run in the US $3,50,000 10th Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon, on January 20. Rooney return from knee injury delayed

Wayne Rooney's return for Manchester United after injury has been delayed with manager Alex Ferguson saying the striker may be sidelined for a further two weeks.

Indian hockey team has improved a lot: Oltmans

Legendary Dutch coach Roelant Oltmans feels that although Indian hockey team has improved by "leaps and bounds", it needs to regularly play against powerhouses like Australia, Holland and Germany in order to become a force to reckon with.

UK man on trial for abusing Bolt during Olympics

A British man went on trial on Thursday accused of screaming abuse at Usain Bolt and hurling a beer bottle onto the track as the Olympic men's 100 metres final was starting, a climactic moment of the London Games in August.

January 02, 2013

NBA: Nuggets end Clippers 17-game winning streak
The Nuggets brought the Los Angeles Clippers' franchise record 17-game winning streak to a halt on Tuesday with a 92-78 victory in Denver. Goal difference could be decisive again, says Mancini

Goal difference could again be the deciding factor in the Premier League title race and Manchester City therefore need to score as many as possible in every game, manager Roberto Mancini said on Tuesday.

'No more fun' Serena looks to become oldest World No 1

Serena Williams credited a more subdued lifestyle on Tuesday for the current form which has put her on track to succeed fellow-American Chris Evert as the oldest world one in women's tennis.

Casillas battling to win back place in Real team
Real Madrid goalkeeper and captain Iker Casillas says he is fighting to prove to coach Jose Mourinho that he deserves his place back in the side after the Portuguese controversially dropped him for last month's La Liga match at Malaga.

January 01, 2013

Indian archers mull appeal against ban
Clueless about their future in the wake of Archery Association of India's (AAI) derecognition, the young marksmen hope to make an appeal through their players' association with the season scheduled to commence in a couple of months time.

December 31, 2012

LA Galaxy set to lure Lampard with 4million pound deal

LA Galaxy is set to offer veteran Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard the same wage package as David Beckham had in a desperate bid to lure the England international to America's Major League Soccer (MLS).

Olympic champion Farah detained on terrorist suspicion

British Olympic hero Mo Farah claimed that he was quizzed by United States border officials on suspicion of being a terrorist.

December 30, 2012

United will not sell Nani, says Ferguson

Manchester United winger Nani will not be sold in the January transfer window, manager Alex Ferguson said on Sunday in dismissing media reports that the Portuguese international could leave Old Trafford.

Lampard double inspires Chelsea to 2-1 win at Everton

Frank Lampard underlined his value to Chelsea with a well-taken double that secured a 2-1 comeback win at Everton on Sunday to move the Londoners back up to third place in the Premier League.

Shooting: Vijay, Heena clinch gold medals in nationals

London Olympics silver medalist Vijay Kumar on Sunday clinched the gold medal in the men's rapid fire pistol event at the 56th National Shooting Championship in New Delhi.

Keshavan guns for medal at Winter Olympics

To enter 30s might signal decline in many sports but for veteran luge racer Shiva Keshavan, it is the start of his peak form which, he feels, would make him the first Indian to win a Winter Olympics medal, come 2014.

December 29, 2012

Majeric completes a double with first singles title
Slovenia's Tadeja Majeric presented herself a New Year gift by winning her maiden singles title with a hard-fought win over Turkey's Basak Eraydin in the final of the NECC ITF Women's $25,000 tennis tournament, in Pune.

December 28, 2012

Tejaswini, Mahaveer win gold in shooting nationals
Rajasthan's Mahaveer Singh and Tejaswini Sawant of Maharashtra were among the shooters to have won the gold medals on the 10th day of the 56th National Shooting Championship in New Delhi. Vardhan-Sanam get wildcards for Chennai Open
Indian tennis players, including Vishnu Vardhan and Sanam Singh, have been granted wild card entries into the doubles draw of the Chennai Open, the organisers announced in Chennai. Ricketts in trouble for tweets against coach Armando
Dempo's star foreign striker Rohan Ricketts has been served with a suspension notice for his outburst against coach Armando Colaco on a social networking website. Milanov becomes Bulgaria's youngest footballer of year
Litex Lovech's midfield dynamo Georgi Milanov was voted Bulgaria's Footballer of the Year on Thursday, becoming the youngest player to pick up the prestigious prize. United's Bebe loaned to Portugal's Rio Ave
Manchester United's misfit striker Bebe has moved to Portuguese side Rio Ave on loan in a bid to resurrect his career at home. Sunderland ban fans for standing
Sunderland have taped up seats and stripped several fans of their season tickets for standing during matches as controversy grows over a law that requires many English soccer spectators to sit. Villa key part of Barcelona squad: Iniesta

David Villa is an important member of the Barcelona squad, his club and international team mate Andres Iniesta said on Thursday amid speculation the Spain striker could move in the January transfer window.

December 27, 2012

Justice Ganguly submits report on Bagan controversy
The one-man committee, appointed by the All India Football Federation to look into the legality of Mohun Bagan's actions in their I-League derby against East Bengal early this month, submitted its report today and the AIFF Emergency Committee will take a decision on Saturday. Kashyap reaches career-best ranking after title win
India's ace shuttler Parupalli Kashyap, who recently triumphed in the Syed Modi International India Grand Prix, made a leap of six places to reach a career-best ranking of 14th in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) rankings released on Thursday.

December 26, 2012

LIVE! Chat with Leander Paes on his Bollywood debut

Join the tennis superstar as he connects with Rediff readers from 1.30pm on Thursday, December 26, only on Rediff ZaraBol.

Veteran keeper Friedel extends Tottenham contract
Veteran goalkeeper Brad Friedel has signed a new contract with Tottenham Hotspur through to 2014, the Premier League club said on Wednesday. Liverpool's Sterling commits to England over Jamaica

Liverpool's teenage winger Raheem Sterling has pledged his international future to England, despite still being eligible for his place of birth, Jamaica.

Del Piero dismisses Sydney exit talk

Alessandro Del Piero's uncertain future in Australia could be close to being resolved, with the former Italy striker pledging his support for struggling Sydney FC.

NBA: James leads Heat past Thunder in finals rematch

LeBron James scored 29 points and flirted with a triple-double as the Miami Heat claimed a 103-97 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder in a rematch of last season's NBA finals on a Christmas Day schedule of five games.

December 25, 2012

Rathore wins gold in shooting nationals
Athens Olympics silver-medallist Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore on Tuesday, clinched the double trap gold medal ahead of former world number one Ronjan Sodhi and Mohammad Asab at the 56th Shooting National Championship in New Delhi.

December 24, 2012

Gold for Shreyasi, Sushma as Chandela shocks Ghatkar
Shreyasi Singh and Sushma Singh bagged gold medal in women's double trap and sports pistol events, respectively, while Sushil Ghaley clinched the yellow metal in men's rifle in New Delhi on Monday. The Queen goes 3D for Olympics tribute

The Queen will use her traditional Christmas Day message, filmed in 3D for the first time, to pay tribute to the world's athletes for delivering a "splendid summer of sport" at the London Olympics.

December 23, 2012

I-League: Mumbai FC puncture East Bengal with a 2-1 win

Mumbai Football Club scored their one of the most memorable win in I-League when they beat East Bengal 2-1 in the 12th Round match at the Balewadi Sports Complex Stadium, Pune on Sunday.

Asian Champions Trophy: India humiliate Oman 11-0
A dominant India humiliated minnows Oman 11-0 to register their third consecutive win in the second Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament in Doha on Sunday. Kashyap wins Indian GP title, Sindhu loses in final
Ace Indian shuttler Parupalli Kashyap clinched his maiden Grand Prix title after a thrilling three-set win over Tanongsak Saensomboonsuk of Thailand in the men's singles summit clash in the $120,000 Syed Modi Indian GP Gold tournament. Claudius laid to rest in presence of teammates
Olympians and dignitaries of the state government today bid their final adieus to legendary hockey player Leslie Claudius whose mortal remains were laid to rest at the Lower Circular Road Cemetery in Kolkata. Keshavan wins gold in Asian Championships

India's top luge athlete Shiva Keshavan reclaimed the gold medal for the second time in succession by setting a new Asian record of 49.590 seconds in the Asian Championship in Nagano, Japan.

December 22, 2012

EPL: Barry's late winner helps City overcome Reading

Manchester City needed Gareth Barry's stoppage-time winner to earn a 1-0 win at home to bottom club Reading on Saturday and exert some pressure on Premier League leaders Manchester United.

India GP: Kashyap, Sindhu storm into final
India's star shuttler Parupalli Kashyap and teen sensation PV Sindhu stormed into the final of the men's and women's singles respectively in the $120,000 Syed Modi Indian Grand Prix Gold tournament in Lucknow on Saturday. National Shooting: Gold for Manavjit, Bindra wins silver
Olympian Manavjit Singh Sandhu on Saturday clinched the trap gold medal while unheralded Chain Singh of Army bagged the yellow metal in 10-metre air rifle event ahead of Beijing Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra, at the 56th National Shooting Championship in New Delhi. Arteta penalty seals win for Arsenal at Wigan

A second-half penalty by Mikel Arteta earned Arsenal a 1-0 victory at Wigan Athletic on Saturday to move the Gunners up to third place in the Premier League.

Ferguson scoffs at talk of Scholes retirement

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has dismissed media reports that his long-serving trio of Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs and Rio Ferdinand will leave the Premier League leaders at the end of the season.

Ibrahimovic sets up leaders PSG for easy win
Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored his 18th goal of the season to inspire Ligue 1 leaders Paris St Germain to a comprehensive 3-0 victory at 10-man Stade Brest which lifted them three points clear at the top on Friday. Matri hits late double to salvage win for Juventus

Substitute Alessandro Matri struck twice, including a winner in stoppage time, as Serie A leaders Juventus hit back to win 3-1 at 10-man Cagliari on Friday.

Adrian maintains Atletico's perfect home record
Adrian came off the bench to fire second-placed Atletico Madrid to a 1-0 La Liga home win over Celta Vigo on Friday and secure a ninth victory in nine matches this season at their Calderon stadium. Mancini ready to give Balotelli another chance

Manchester City will give volatile Italian striker Mario Balotelli another chance, manager Roberto Mancini said on Friday.

December 21, 2012

Kashyap, Sindhu advance to semis of Indian GP
India's star shuttler Parupalli Kashyap and teen sensation PV Sindhu stormed into the semi-finals of the men's and women's singles respectively in the US$ 120,000 Syed Modi Indian Grand Prix Gold tournament. Shreyasi wins trap gold in shooting nationals

Shreyasi Singh of Bihar on Friday won the gold medal in the women's trap event as Beijing Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra slipped a place to second in the men's 10-m air rifle competition.

Fed Cup: Sania to spearhead Indian challenge

Sania Mirza will lead the four-member Indian side in the upcoming Asia/Oceania Group I tie of the Fed Cup tennis tournament.

Keshavan qualifies for Asian Championship finals

Indian luge pilot Shiva Keshavan on Friday made a positive start to his title defence at the Asian Championship in Nagano as he qualified for the finals of the event.

Kalmadi, Bhanot to be charged with forgery in CWG scam

A Delhi court has ordered framing of charges against former Commonwealth Games (CWG) organising committee (OC) chairman Suresh Kalmadi and others for forgery, cheating and conspiracy, in a Games-related graft case.

December 20, 2012

Sindhu, Gurusaidutt in quarter-finals
Rising shuttler PV Sindhu breezed into the quarter-finals of the women's singles while the reigning National champion Sayali Gokhale saw her campaign fall apart as Indian shuttlers endured a mixed day in the Syed Modi International India Open Grand Prix Gold in Lucknow on Thursday. Syed Modi: Saina in controversy over first round pullout

Saina Nehwal has kicked up a storm by retiring from a match she was on the verge of winning because of a knee injury.

Aus athlete Steffensen to be probed over racism claim

Controversial 400 metres runner John Steffensen will be investigated for bringing the sport into disrepute after having his claim of racial vilification against Athletics Australia (AA) thrown out by the body on Thursday.

IOC directs Randhir to take legal action against Bhanot
The International Olympic Committee has asked its Indian member Randhir Singh to take all measures, including legal action, against 'illegitimate individuals' claiming to represent the suspended Indian Olympic Association.

December 19, 2012

Pallikal loses in pre-quarters of World Open
India's Dipika Pallikal squandered a one-game lead and went down to Egypt's Raneem El Weleily in the pre-quarter-finals of the women's World Open Squash Championship in the Grand Cayman Islands, in the Caribbean. Pallikal, ranked world No 10 and seeded 13th in the tournament, lost to second seed Weleily 11-7, 9-11, 6-11, 5-11 in 38 minutes at the South Sound squash club on Wednesday. City's Balotelli withdraws appeal, ready to pay club fine

Mario Balotelli has accepted a fine of two weeks' wages from Manchester City after withdrawing his appeal against disciplinary action taken against him by the Premier League champions, the club said on Wednesday.

Pratul Joshi stuns Hidayat; Saina concedes tie
India's Pratul Joshi created a flutter, shocking top seed and former Olympic champion Taufiq Hidayat in the first round of the men's singles in the Syed Modi International India Open Grand Prix Gold badminton in Lucknow on Wednesday. The 18-year-old, a Delhi University student, displayed good touch to beat the Indonesian great 21-17, 21-12 in 30 minutes. NBA: Warriors beat Hornets at home to stay hot
The Golden State Warriors staved off a late fourth-quarter challenge to beat New Orleans Hornets 103-96 for a successful home return on Tuesday. Rangers FC raises 22 million pounds on market return
Scottish soccer club Rangers raised around 22.2 million pounds on its return to the stock market on Wednesday, funds which the club hopes will help to support a recovery after being demoted to the fourth tier in Scotland. Inter beat Verona to advance in Italian Cup
Inter Milan moved into the Italian Cup quarter-finals with a 2-0 victory over second-tier Verona on Tuesday. Bayern advance in German Cup, Schalke slump out

Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery was sent off for slapping an opponent just after halftime but that did not stop his side moving into the German Cup quarter-finals with a 2-0 win at Augsburg on Tuesday.

December 18, 2012

Indian athletes can take part in OCA Games but not officials
The Olympic Council of Asia has barred officials of the suspended IOA from participating in OCA events, but said "as a special case" Indian athletes will be allowed to take part in the OCA Games, including the 2014 Asian Games in Incheon under the IOC flag. Messi to stay at Barcelona until 2018

Barcelona have reached agreement on new contracts with key squad members Lionel Messi, Xavi and Carles Puyol, the La Liga leaders said on Tuesday.

Drogba, Anelka future at Shanghai in doubt

The China careers of former Chelsea strikers Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka are in doubt amid reports of unpaid wages at the end of a tumultuous year at Shanghai Shenhua.

Bin Hammam resigns, FIFA bans him for life

Mohamed Bin Hammam, the former FIFA presidential candidate embroiled in corruption allegations, has resigned from all his positions in football and been given a life ban, FIFA said on Monday.

EPL: Cazorla hat-trick fires Arsenal romp

Spanish playmaker Santi Cazorla scored a hat-trick as Arsenal stylishly dismantled bottom club Reading 5-2 to move up to fifth in the Premier League on Monday.

December 17, 2012

Confident India leave for Asian Champions Trophy
Determined to defend the title, a confident Indian hockey team under Sardar Singh left for Doha to participate in the second edition of the Asian Champions Trophy to be held from December 20-27. Lochte ends with eight medals at short-course C'ship

American swimmer Ryan Lochte ended his world short-course championships on a high in Istanbul on Sunday, when he took gold in the 4x100 metres medley and 100 metres individual medley to take his overall medal tally to eight.

Grosjean overtakes Schumi, Vettel to win Race of Champions

French Formula One driver Romain Grosjean, whose future with the Lotus team is yet to be confirmed, beat Sebastian Vettel and Michael Schumacher on his way to winning the Race of Champions event in Bangkok on Sunday.

Garcia wins, Wiratchant oldest to take home Order of Merit
Spain's Sergio Garcia fired a sparkling 11-under-par 61 to claim the weather-hit Iskandar Johor Open golf tournament on Sunday as Thailand's Thaworn Wiratchant became the oldest winner of the Asian Tour's Order of Merit title. Wiggins named BBC Sports Personality of the Year

Cyclist Bradley Wiggins was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year on Sunday to cap a remarkable 12 months when he became the first Briton to win the Tour de France and followed it up with Olympic gold.

Golf: Asia beat Europe in playoff to clinch Royal Trophy
Asia won the Royal Trophy by the tightest of margins on Sunday, edging Europe in a sudden death playoff to complete a stunning comeback in the team match play competition after the contest had finished level at 8-8.

December 16, 2012

Tottenham beat Swansea to move back into the top four

Belgium international Jan Vertonghen scored a second-half winner to send Tottenham Hotspur back into the top four of the Premier League after a 1-0 home win against a stubborn Swansea City on Sunday.

Lochte breaks own World Record in 200m medley

Ryan Lochte of the United States smashed his own world record to win the 200 metres individual medley at the world short-course championships on Friday and then shocked the crowd by giving his medal to a fan.

Corinthians stun Chelsea to win Club World Cup

Paolo Guerrero snatched a 69th-minute winner as South American champions Corinthians stunned Chelsea to win soccer's Club World Cup on Sunday.

Khan outclasses Molina to register comeback victory

Britain's Amir Khan returned to winning ways after two tough defeats with a comprehensive 10th round stoppage of previously unbeaten American Carlos Molina in a light-welterweight contest on Saturday.

Intense action against IABF if re-election not held soon
The International Boxing Association (AIBA) might be forced to initiate more action against the suspended Indian Federation if its old guard does not take charge soon and calls for a re-election, which is essential to get the provisional ban revoked. Sergio wins Johor Open title; Chowrasia, Kapur 10th
Indian golfers SSP Chowrasia and Shiv Kapur carded 10-under 206 to finish tied 10th at the rain-shortened $ two million Iskandar Johor Open which was won by Spain's Sergio Garcia in Nusajaya, Malaysia on Sunday. IOC instructs international federations to examine India
The International Olympic Committee has asked international sports federations to carefully examine the "complicated" situation in India in the wake of IOA's suspension and take appropriate action to "protect the autonomy of the national federations" in the country. Sardar, Raghunath stars of HIL auctions
India captain Sardar Singh became the highest-paid marquee player at the inaugural Hockey India League auctions as the Delhi franchise bought him for $ 78,000 (Rs 42.49 lakh), while drag-flicker VR Raghunath also grabbed quite a few eyeballs with an intense bidding war for him in New Delhi on Sunday.

December 15, 2012

Indian challenge ends at World Junior TT
The Indian challenge at the Volkswagen 2012 World Junior table tennis championships came to an end when Ayhika Mukerjee and Suthirtha Mukherjee lost their respective pre-quarterfinal matches in Hyderabad on Saturday. Golf: Chopra takes slight lead in Malaysia
Sweden's Daniel Chopra took a one-stroke lead into the final day of the Iskandar Johor Open in Malaysia after the tournament was reduced to 54 holes on Saturday due to several weather disruptions. Golf: Asia comeback strong against Europe in Royal Trophy
Asia stormed back into contention at the Royal Trophy on Saturday by taking three points from the four fourball matches against Europe to close the deficit to just one ahead of the final day singles. Indian eves defeat Malaysia to lift Kabaddi World Cup
India's women Kabaddi team defeated Malaysia to win the one-sided final of the World Cup Kabaddi played in Ludhiana on Saturday. Saina knocked out in semis at World Super Series Finals

Saina Nehwal's hopes of winning her maiden 'World Super Series Finals title this year went up in smoke as she lost her semi-final clash against top seed and current Olympic champion Li Xuerui of China in a three-game encounter.

Lochte betters own world record in 200m medley

Lifetime Achievement honour for Jeev Milkha Singh

Seasoned Indian golfer Jeev Milkha Singh celebrated his 41st birthday in style by winning the Asia Pacific Lifetime Achievement award along with 18-time Major champion Jack Nicklaus and eight-time European Tour Order of Merit winner Colin Montgomerie in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei.

2014 Tour de France to start in Yorkshire
British cycling success this year has been rewarded with the selection of north of England county Yorkshire to host the start of the 2014 Tour de France.

December 14, 2012

Saina in semis of Super Series Finals

Saina Nehwal looks set to cap a remarkable year on a high. The ace Indian shuttler entered the semi-finals of the BWF World Super Series Finals with a fine straight-game win over Juliane Schenk of Germany,in Shenzhen, China, on Friday.

Bastia barred from playing at home after violence
Bastia have been barred from playing at home until further notice after supporters of the top-flight club were involved in a series of violent incidents, the French League (LFP) said on Thursday. NBA: Anthony inspires Knicks to big win over Lakers

Adding more hope to their dream of a long-awaited return to the NBA winner's circle, the New York Knicks enjoyed a role reversal night against the once-mighty Los Angeles Lakers at Madison Square Garden on Thursday.

Xavi close to deal to stay at Barca until retirement

Barcelona midfielder Xavi is close to an agreement on a new contract that will mean he ends his playing career at the La Liga club he joined more than 20 years ago, the Spain international said.

Zaragoza in command after King's Cup win at Levante
Carlos Aranda's 90th-minute goal gave Real Zaragoza a 1-0 win at Levante in a King's Cup last 16 first-leg tie on Thursday while Real Betis were held to a 1-1 draw at second division Las Palmas. Anti-doping on agenda for UCI consultation
Anti-doping will be one of four discussion topics for the International Cycling Union's (UCI) stakeholder consultation to be launched next year, the sport's governing body said on Thursday.

December 13, 2012

Super Series: Saina loses again, semis chances bleak

Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal is virtually out of the semifinals race of the BWF World Super Series Finals after losing her second consecutive women's singles Group B match in the $ 500,000 event in Shenzhen, China on Thursday.

Boxers allowed but officials barred by AIBA from Baku tourney
The International Boxing Association has allowed India's youth pugilists to compete in a tournament in Azerbaijan but has barred the officials from accompanying the boys, insisting that it does not recognize the Secretary General or any other office-bearer of the suspended federation. Former Brazil coach Dunga joins Internacional

Dunga took charge of Porto Alegre club Internacional on Wednesday, his first coaching job since leading Brazil at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Vidic poised for Man United return against Sunderland

Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic has a chance of making his return from injury against Sunderland at Old Trafford on Saturday, manager Alex Ferguson said.

Pressure builds on Pardew as Newcastle entertain City

Alan Pardew was hailed last season as a steady hand on the Newcastle United tiller but finds himself contemplating an impending relegation battle ahead of a clash with wounded champions Manchester City on Saturday.

King's Cup: Messi keeps on scoring as Real lose 2-1

The apparently unstoppable Lionel Messi extended his record goals tally for 2012 to 88 when he scored twice to earn holders Barcelona a 2-0 win at second division Cordoba in their King's Cup last-16 first leg on Wednesday.

Jeev only Indian in Asia vs Europe clash for Royal Trophy

Jeev Milkha Singh will be the lone Indian golfer in the Asian that will take on Europe in the sixth Royal Trophy clash this week.

Court restrains AIFF from taking action against Bagan
A city court restrained the All India Football Federation (AIFF) from preventing Mohun Bagan from participating in the I-League. Sick Norman pulls out of Australian PGA championship

Greg Norman withdrew from his home Australian PGA Championship after only two holes on Thursday due to a bout of food poisoning.

Swansea reach League Cup semifinals

Swansea City booked their place in the semi-finals of the League Cup after an own goal by Seb Hines secured the Premier League club a 1-0 victory over second-tier Middlesbrough on Wednesday.

December 12, 2012

Russian weightlifter told to return 2004 Olympic medal
Oleg Perepechyonov has been asked to return his Olympic bronze medal from the 2004 Athens Games after his samples from eight years ago were retested and showed traces of 'a funny substance', the Russian weightlifter said on Wednesday. King's Cup: Valencia gain upper hand against Osasuna
Valencia moved towards a place in the King's Cup quarter-finals and a possible meeting with Real Madrid when Dani Parejo and substitute Roberto Soldado struck in a 2-0 win at Osasuna in their last 16, first leg on Tuesday. City's Barry charged with insulting match official

Manchester City's Gareth Barry has been charged with abusing a match official by the Football Association (FA) as the fallout from Sunday's Manchester derby continues.

December 11, 2012

Athletics federation told to hold re-elections
The Sports Ministry on Tuesday gave the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) two months to amend its constitution and hold re-elections for the post of president, secretary and treasurer. Mohun Bagan set to face two-year ban
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is all set to ban Mohun Bagan for two years for walking off the pitch after one of their key players got injured during the violence-ridden I-League derby against East Bengal in Kolkata. McIlroy takes home European Writers Trophy

World No 1 Rory McIlroy won the 2012 European Golf Writers Trophy on Monday after a spectacular season during which he landed his second major title and topped the money-list on both sides of the Atlantic.

Armstrong has 21 days to appeal UCI penalties

Lance Armstrong has been notified by the UCI that he has been stripped of all the titles he won after July 1998 and the American has three weeks to appeal, a spokesman for cycling's world governing body said on Monday.

December 10, 2012

Ministry issues notice to Athletic Federation of India
Three days after de-recognising two federations, Sports Ministry issued a notice to the Athletic Federation of India to remove a few contentious clauses from its constitution and hold re-elections for the post of president and secretary. I-League: Beto brace sets up Churchill Brothers victory

Churchill Brothers played true to their reputation to hold off the challenge of youthful Pailan Arrows 3-0 in the 10th round of the I-League at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium on Monday.

India's Olympic embarrassment: What is the road ahead?
Aabhas Sharma gives us the low down on what really went wrong between IOA and IOC. Indian stars to write to IOC to resurrect sports
Former India hockey captain Zafar Iqbal said the country's prominent athletes would write to the International Olympic Committee seeking its help for drawing up a blueprint for resurrecting sports in the country.

December 09, 2012

Manchester derby: United beat City in thriller

Robin van Persie's stoppage-time free kick snatched a 3-2 victory for Manchester United in a pulsating derby at champions Manchester City to send them six points clear at the top of the Premier League on Sunday.

Ozil double earns Real Madrid comeback victory

Mesut Ozil netted a superb double to fire Real Madrid to a 3-2 comeback win at Real Valladolid on Saturday and lift Jose Mourinho's side within two points of second-placed Atletico Madrid in La Liga.

I-League: Kolkata derby abandoned amid high drama
In what was another shameful episode in a city as passionate about sports as Kolkata, the much hyped I-League local derby between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake stadium) was abandoned on Sunday. Several good signs for Indian hockey: Nobbs

Disappointed he might be on missing out on a medal but India's hockey coach Michael Nobbs said there were several good signs for his team during the Champions Trophy in which it finished fourth after losing to Pakistan in the bronze medal playoff in Melbourne on Sunday.

World archery body recognises AAI elections
The Archery Association of India (AAI) has got a shot in the arm after the World Archery Federation (FITA) extended recognition to its elections and extended full support to it. Senior masters Sydney gale to win Australian Open

Peter Senior drew on all his experience from 34 years as a professional golfer to master galeforce winds and win the Australian Open by a shot on Sunday, 23 years after he first held aloft the Stonehaven Cup.

December 08, 2012

European Games approved after EOC vote
The European Olympic Committee (EOC) voted on Saturday to launch a new European Games multi-sport competition with the first event taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan in 2015. Lahiri tied seventh; Chopra second behind Schwartzel
Anirban Lahiri's effort to cap a wonderful year with a good finish stayed on course as he was tied seventh along with some classy company at the Thailand Golf Championships in Chonburi on Saturday. WCup Kabaddi: NADA collects blood samples of 81 players
The teams of National Anti Doping Agency (NADA) collected samples of 81 players of all the teams who are taking part in the ongoing third World Cup Kabaddi. AIBA directs Indian Boxing Federation to hold re-election
Thrown into disarray by a provisional suspension, the Indian Boxing Federation has been offered a glimmer of hope by its parent body AIBA, which has asked it to hold a re-election and amend its constitution to get the ban revoked. EOC mulling new European Olympics competition
Senior officials are looking to launch a new European Olympics competition, European Olympic Committee (EOC) president Patrick Hickey said on Friday. Qatar Open squash: Ghosal advances to Round 2; Suchde out
India's Saurav Ghosal advanced to the second round of the Qatar PSA World Squash Championship, beating Abdulla Mohd Al Tamimi in straight games in Doha on Saturday. Suspension of IOA punishing to Indian athletes: Bhupathi

Veteran Indian tennis player Mahesh Bhupathi feels the suspension of the Indian Olympic Association by the IOC is a 'culmination of dirty politics'.

December 07, 2012

Ready to quit for future of Indian athletes: Chautala
Abhay Chautala, who was elected president of the Indian Olympic Association, which was subsequently banned by the International Olympic Committee earlier this week, told rediff.com on Friday evening he will 'take a decision whether to move the court or not in due course of time'. AAI slams government, calls de-recognition illegal

The Archery Association of India (AAI) hit out at the Government for de recognizing the body, calling the decision "unconstitutional and arbitrary".

Good day for Shagun as shooter claims 2 medals
India's Shagun Choudhury fired a total of 83 (64+19) to clinch the silver medal in the women's individual trap event and the trap gold went to the hosts in the 2nd Asian Shooting Championship Patiala. Archers will suffer most by AAI suspension: Dola Banerjee
Ace Indian archer Dola Banerjee told Rediff.com that the biggest loss in the derecognition of the boxing and archery associations will be that of players. Government suggests forming of ad-hoc committee to IOC
Amid the controversy over Indian Olympic Association's suspension, government suggested to the International Olympic Committee that an "ad-hoc" committee comprising only eminent sportspersons -- be formed to look after the affairs of the national sports body. Sports ministry derecognises boxing and archery associations
Close on the heels of International Boxing Association provisionally suspending the Indian Federation, the Sports Ministry also suspended recognition to the IABF, citing 'flawed and faulty' elections. Indian boxing federation ready for re-elections
Rattled by the International Boxing Association's (IABF) decision to provisionally suspend the Indian Federation, Chairman Abhay Singh Chautala has said he was willing to step down from his post and the body was ready to hold a re-election to regain AIBA's affiliation. IOA's 'elected office-bearers' have no legitimacy: IOC
The International Olympic Committee has refused to recognise the elections conducted by the suspended Indian Olympic Association, saying the 'so-called' office-bearers have no legitimacy. Chopra in joint lead at Thai Golf Championships

Shrugging off the disappointment of missing a PGA Tour card, Indian-origin Swede golfer Daniel Chopra was sharing the lead but the Indians in fray were struggling when thunderstorm stopped play at the Thailand Golf Championships in Chonburi, Thailand.

Golfer's record-breaking swing: 146 yards with 14ft club!
A golfer in Texas blasted a ball 146 yards with the extra long club, smashing the Guinness world record. UEFA to ban third party ownership of players
European soccer's governing body UEFA wants to prohibit the controversial third-party ownership of players, secretary general Gianni Infantino said on Thursday. IOC to probe Korean player's Olympic gesture
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) will set up a disciplinary commission to look into the case of South Korean footballer Park Jong-woo, who flashed a political sign at the London Olympics to inflame a diplomatic row with Japan. Indian Boxing Federation provisionally suspended by AIBA
In a massive jolt to boxing in India, the International Boxing Association (AIBA) has suspended the IABF alleging 'possible manipulation' in its recent elections but the body has denied the charge, insisting that the process was 'transparent'.

December 06, 2012

Prasad, Sandeep settle for bronze at Youth World boxing
Lalitha Prasad (49kg) and Sandeep Sharma (75kg) had to settle for a bronze medal after losing in the penultimate round of the AIBA Youth World Boxing Championships in Armenia on Thursday. While Prasad was outdone by Bin LV of China, Sandeep went down to Magomed Madyiev of Russia in the semi-finals. Usha, Gopichand in IOA's new advisory panel
The newly-elected executive council of the Indian Olympic Association constituted a three-member advisory panel, on Thursday, which will guide the office-bearers on problems faced by athletes. It also formed a nine-member Athletes' Commission. IOC commission to probe Korean player's Olympic gesture
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) will set up a disciplinary commission to look into the case of South Korean footballer Park Jong-woo, who flashed a political sign at the London Olympics to inflame a diplomatic row with Japan. IOC not ready to move on Armstrong's Olympic medal

Lance Armstrong will hold on to his 2000 Sydney Olympic bronze medal a little longer after the International Olympic Committee said it would wait for the international cycling union to inform him before moving to strip him of it.

Barcelona confirm Messi only has bruised left knee

Barcelona's Lionel Messi has a bruised left knee and is a doubt for the leaders' next match in La Liga this weekend, the club said on Wednesday ending fears that the player had suffered a more serious injury.

'Who is Mourinho?' asks Atletico prez

Atletico Madrid were again put firmly in their place by Real Madrid in the city derby last weekend but they have not lost their sense of humour as the fallout from the game continues to make headlines in Spain.

December 05, 2012

Chautala elected new IOA president
Abhay Singh Chautala took over as the president of the Indian Olympic Association while the tainted Lalit Bhanot became the secretary general after the IOA conducted its controversial elections, on Wednesday, defying the IOC's directive not to go ahead with the polls. West Ham chosen to finalise Olympic Stadium deal

English Premier League soccer club West Ham United have been chosen as the leading bidder to move into the Olympic Stadium but commercial terms must still be negotiated.

3 Indians in semis of Youth World boxing
Lalitha Prasad (49kg), Sandeep Sharma (75kg) and Narender Berwal (+91kg) assured themselves a medal after advancing to the semi-finals of the the AIBA Youth World Championships at Yerevan, Armenia. 'IOA's constitution not aligned with Olympic Charter'
The Indian Government has termed IOA's suspension as "unfortunate" and said the International Olympic Committee's decision to attribute suspension to Government interference in the IOA's election process was "entirely misplaced". IOA go ahead with AGM, election despite IOC suspension
Defying the ban imposed by the International Olympic Committee, the IOA today went ahead with its Annual General Meeting and elections, insisting that it had not done anything wrong. Don't have mandate but will speak to IOC: Sports Minister
A day after India was suspended by the International Olympic Committee, Sports Minister Jitendra Singh said he does not have the mandate or the jurisdiction to interfere in the matter but will still try to engage with the IOC to get the ban reversed.

December 04, 2012

'Bye, bye IOA. Hope to see you soon, clean!'
The sports fraternity expressed outrage over the International Olympic Committee's decision to suspend India for government interference, with some athletes blaming the IOA for the entire fiasco. While some former sportspersons were critical of the way the IOA handled the whole issue, some current athletes bemoaned the fact that their Olympic participation for the country has been jeopardised. IOC ban an opportunity to clean the mess: Randhir
Former IOA secretary general Randhir Singh said that the IOC's decision to ban the Indian Olympic Association gives an "opportunity" to clean the mess, and insisted that the international body is not against the country but against the system. Why the IOC banned the Indian Olympic Association

The ban means an effective end to funding from the IOC to the national Olympic committee (IOA), no Indian officials attending Olympic meetings and Indian athletes banned from competing at the Olympics under their country's flag.

International Olympic Committee suspends IOA
According to Associated Press, the IOC executive board imposed the sanctions on Tuesday after the Indian Olympic Association failed to comply with the world body's directive to hold its elections, scheduled for Wednesday, under the Olympic Charter. Valencia name Valverde as new coach

Valencia have agreed to appoint Ernesto Valverde to replace Mauricio Pellegrino as their new coach until the end of the season, the Spanish club said on Monday.

Ba double leads Newcastle to victory over 10-man Wigan

Demba Ba helped injury-hit Newcastle United end a sequence of four successive English Premier League defeats by grabbing two goals in a 3-0 victory over 10-man Wigan Athletic on Monday.

Hockey India League: Charlesworth appointed coach of Mumbai
Former Australian player and coach Ric Charlesworth was today roped in as coach of the Mumbai franchise for the upcoming Hockey India League starting next year. Arsenal rest six for Olympiakos to avoid fatigue

Arsenal have left six first-team regulars in London ahead of their final Champions League group stage match against Olympiakos Piraeus in a bid to avoid fatigue following the home defeat to Swansea City.

Fourteen Eritrean footballers disappear in Uganda
At least 14 members of the Eritrea soccer squad have disappeared in Uganda while playing in a regional tournament and may eventually claim asylum, Ugandan officials said.

December 03, 2012

IOA officials gear up to meet IOC top brass
Two top Indian Olympic Association officials are preparing to leave for Switzerland for a meeting with International Olympic Committee top brass to plead their case in the wake of the world body's decision to propose IOA's suspension in its Executive Board meeting. NBA: Magic get better of Howard, stun Lakers

The Orlando Magic caught fire in the fourth quarter to stun the Los Angeles Lakers 113-103 and get the better of former player Dwight Howard on Sunday.

McDowell holds off Bradley to win World Challenge

Graeme McDowell continued his love affair with California by winning for the first time in two years when he held off playing partner Keegan Bradley to clinch the World Challenge by three shots on Sunday.

My mother made me think like a champion: Saina

Bright, all smiles and confident, India's ace badminton player Saina Nehwal met a packed house in Delhi at the launch of her first autobiography, Playing to Win.

Bhupathi says 2013 will be his last year on tour

India's doubles tennis ace Mahesh Bhupathi on Sunday said 2013 will be his last year on tour as he has retirement in mind.

Serie A: Napoli and Inter keep pace with leaders Juve
Napoli kept in touch with Serie A leaders Juventus with a 5-1 thumping of bottom club Pescara on Sunday while Inter Milan scraped a 1-0 win over Palermo.

December 02, 2012

FA Cup: Chelsea drawn away to Southampton in third round

Holders Chelsea will face Premier League opposition in the third round of the FA Cup after Sunday's draw gave them a tricky start to their defence away to Southampton.

Jeev finishes 17th at JT Cup in Tokyo
Jeev Milkha Singh carded his best of the week, three-under 67, but still ended 17th at the Golf Nippon Series JT Cup at the Tokyo Yomiuri Golf Club in Tokyo on Sunday. Kenyans dominate Pune International Marathon
Luka Kipkemoi Chelimo of Kenya won the gruelling 42.195 kilometres men's race in the 27th edition of Pune International Marathon which ended at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Sunday. Sandeep enters AIBA Youth World Boxing last 16
Sandeep Sharma advanced to the pre-quarter finals of the 75 kg division after defeating Joongwon Kim of Korea on a mixed day for the Indians in the AIBA Youth World Boxing Championships in Yerevan, Armenia. PGA Tour Qualifying: Atwal plummets to 109th, Chopra 69th

Arjun Atwal suffered a dramatic fall over the last three holes, dropping four shots in that span to plummet to tied 109th after the fourth round of Final Stage of the PGA Tour Qualifying School, in La Quinta, California.

Pornanong wins Indian Open, Aditi finishes in top-10

Thailand's Pornanong Phatlum presented herself an early birthday present by winning the Hero Women's Indian Open for a record third time while 14-year-old amateur Aditi Ashok was the best placed Indian with a tied eighth-place finish, in Gurgaon on Sunday.

December 01, 2012

Dipika Pallikal becomes first Indian to break into top 10

Squash ace Dipika Pallikal on Saturday became the first Indian to break into the top 10 of the world rankings.

India faces Olympic ban with Bhanot set for IOA role
Tainted former Commonwealth Games official Lalit Bhanot was left as the only candidate in a controversial election for the post of secretary-general of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) which is likely to earn the country an Olympic ban. Beckham wants Champions League swansong

David Beckham has targeted one final fling in the European Champions League before hanging up his boots once he leaves Los Angeles after five-and-a-half years.

Champions Trophy hockey: India start campaign with win

India made a bright start to their campaign at the Champions Trophy hockey tournament with a come-from-behind 3-1 win over England in Pool A at the State Hockey Centre in Melbourne on Saturday.

AC Milan fight back to beat 10-man Catania

AC Milan recovered from a goal down to win 3-1 at 10-man Catania thanks to a second-half double from Stephan El Shaarawy and a strike by Kevin-Prince Boateng who was sent off near the end of a lively Serie A clash on Friday.

Mourinho to face disgruntled Real Madrid fans alone
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho will confront the home fans who whistled him at their midweek King's Cup match by walking out alone onto the Bernabeu pitch 40 minutes before Saturday's La Liga match with Atletico Madrid. Beckham helping Galaxy in Kaka bid

David Beckham has been helping LA Galaxy in their bid to sign Brazilian playmaker Kaka from Real Madrid as his replacement, the Major League Soccer club's owner said.

Flintoff survives knock down to win debut fight

Former England cricketer Andrew Flintoff beat American Richard Dawson on points after surviving a knockdown in his first professional fight at the MEN Arena in Manchester on Friday.

November 30, 2012

Gurusaidutt, Srikanth in semis of Macau Open
Indian shuttlers R M V Gurusaidutt and K Srikanth notched contrasting victories to enter the semi-finals of the Macau Open Grand Prix Gold on Friday. Seeded 12th, Gurusaidutt sailed past Yan Kit Chan of Hong Kong, winning 21-11, 21-14 in 34 minutes at the Macau Forum, thereby taking their head-to-head record to two-all. Olympic scandal prompts badminton rule revamp
The Badminton World Federation announced changes to Olympic doubles rules following a match-throwing scandal at the London Games, but said it would take no further action against coaches. IOC controversy will be resolved soon: Chautala
With the sword of suspension by the International Olympic Committee over its head, the Indian Olympic Association officials met Sports Minister Jitendra Singh on Friday in a bid to resolve the election dispute. A nine-member panel, which included president-designate Abhay Singh Chautala met the minister and urged the government to find a solution to the problem as soon as possible. Bhanot elected IOA secretary-general; Chautala president
Lalit Bhanot, who was jailed for 11 months for his alleged role in the Commonwealth Games corruption case, was elected secretary-general of the Indian Olympic Association on Friday. With no opponent in the fray, after Randhir Singh and others withdrew their candidature, Abhay Singh Chautala will take over as president. Flintoff feared mum more than punches

Andrew Flintoff has admitted he was terrified when he took up boxing in case his mother hit the roof.

Celtics' point guard Rondo suspended for two games

Boston Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo was suspended for two games for fighting with Nets forward Kris Humphries in Wednesday's 95-83 Brooklyn victory, the National Basketball Association said.

Brazil coach Scolari in hot water over banking jibe

Luiz Felipe Scolari ran into his first controversy only hours after taking over as Brazil coach on Thursday by saying that players who could not handle pressure should "work for the Banco do Brasil".

Wondolowski named MLS's Most Valuable Player

San Jose Earthquakes striker Chris Wondolowski was voted Major League Soccer's Most Valuable Player for the 2012 season, the league said on Thursday.

Don't quit yet, Beckham urges Donovan

David Beckham will end his Major League Soccer playing career on Saturday but has urged LA Galaxy team mate Landon Donovan not to do the same.

November 29, 2012

India can still avoid suspension: Randhir Singh

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) can still avoid an Olympic suspension by calling off its controversial December 5 election, its secretary general Randhir Singh told Reuters on Thursday.

King's Cup: Villa passes 300 goals as Barca progress

David Villa took his career goals tally to 301 when he netted twice as holders Barcelona eliminated third-tier Alaves 6-1 on aggregate to qualify for the last 16 of the King's Cup on Wednesday.

November 28, 2012

Randhir slams Malhotra, Chautala for IOA mess
In the wake of the International Olympic Committee's threat to ban India from the Olympic movement, IOC member Randhir Singh, who withdrew from the race for the post of Indian Olympic Association president, accused acting president V K Malhotra of creating a mess that would ultimately bring shame to the nation. IOC warns of proposing IOA suspension
The International Olympic Committee made it clear on Wednesday that it will propose suspension of the Indian Olympic Association at its Executive Board Meeting early next month if the upcoming elections are held under the government's Sports Code. Barca's Pique in an intimate moment with Shakira

First Look: FC Barcelona defender Gerrard Pique and his pop star girlfriend Shakira are expecting their first baby.

Pacers take down Lakers with final second basket
Indiana guard George Hill came up with last second heroics usually reserved for Kobe Bryant as the Pacers outgunned the Los Angeles Lakers 79-77 in a scrappy contest in Los Angeles on Tuesday. Pallikal in second round of Hong Kong Open
Dipika Pallikal registered a come from behind victory over local challenger Liu Tsz Ling to enter the second round of the Cathay Pacific Sun Hung Kai Financial Hong Kong Open. Messi's pursuit of Mueller record on hold

Former Germany and Bayern Munich striker Gerd Mueller's record of 85 goals in a calendar year will stand for a little longer after Barcelona decided to rest Lionel Messi for a midweek outing in the King's Cup against lowly Alaves.

Chelsea 'regret' handling of Clattenburg case

Chelsea have expressed regret over their handling of allegations against referee Mark Clattenburg after a Premier League match last month, the club said on Tuesday.

Zico quits as Iraq coach in middle of qualifying campaign
Zico quit as coach of the Iraqi national team on Tuesday after little more than a year in the post, saying the country's soccer association had failed to fulfill the terms of his contract. Lazio ease to win over Udinese amid racist chants

Lazio's Alvaro Gonzalez, Mirolsav Klose and Hernanes secured a 3-0 victory over Udinese in Serie A on Tuesday at the Stadio Olimpico where the home fans sang racist chants aimed at rivals Roma who share the stadium.

Elated Woods back at venue that sparked his 2012 season

Twelve months after ending a two-year victory drought at the tournament he hosts, Tiger Woods is excited about his prospects for 2013 as he prepares to defend his World Challenge title this week.

November 27, 2012

Squash under the IOC microscope in Hong Kong
Frustrated by two failed bids to get squash into the Olympics, world number one Nicol David and her fellow players have embarked on a campaign to raise the sport's global profile in an attempt to win over IOC chiefs in Hong Kong this week. Tainted cyclist wins award for book on doping

Disgraced cyclist Tyler Hamilton said he was 'proud of writing it but not proud of what's in it' after his book The Secret Race won the prestigious William Hill sports book of the year award on Monday.

November 26, 2012

Sarjubala, Pinki enter quarters of boxing nationals
Reigning Youth World and National champion Sarjubala Devi and Asian Championship bronze medallist Pinki Jangra sailed into the quarterfinals of the 13th Senior Women's National Boxing Championship in their respective weight categories in Guwahati on Monday. Mourinho's Real seek refuge in King's Cup
Spain's oft-maligned King's Cup takes on added significance for Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid after a weekend which saw the champions slip 11 points behind the La Liga leaders Barcelona. Tytler, Gehlot withdraw from IOA elections
A day after Randhir Singh withdrew his candidature for the post of Indian Olympic Association president, several of his supporters on Monday pulled out of contests for various positions ahead of the elections to be held on December 5. Infighting making IOA a laughing stock: Tytler
Indian Olympic Association vice-President Jagdish Tytler lambasted the infighting that has marred the build-up to the December 5 IOA elections, saying that constant bickering has made the body a laughing stock for the entire country. Indian Olympians receive momentos from London Mayor
The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson personally delivered a memento of London's thrilling Olympic and Paralympic Games to India's six medal winning athletes on Monday.

November 25, 2012

Sarjubala makes strong start at women nationals
Reigning national and youth World Champion Sarjubala Devi powered her way to the second round of the senior women's national boxing championship after inflicting a crushing 29-7 defeat on Neetu on the opening day of the tournament, in Guwahati, on Sunday. McIlroy repels Rose's record charge to win in Dubai

World No. 1 Rory McIlroy picked up $2.33 million worth of desert treasure after repelling a record-breaking charge from Ryder Cup teammate Justin Rose to win the DP World Tour Championship on Sunday.

Randhir withdraws, Chautala to become IOA chief
The controversy-marred Indian Olympic Association elections took a dramatic twist on Sunday with Randhir Singh withdrawing his nomination for the post of President, clearing the decks for Abhay Singh Chautala to take charge of the high-profile post.

November 24, 2012

Bolt named IAAF World Athlete of the Year

Jamaican Usain Bolt beat United States hurdler Aries Merritt and Kenyan runner David Rudisha to clinch the IAAF World Athlete of the Year award for the fourth time.

US boxer Hector 'Macho' Camacho dies

Former US boxing champ Hector 'Macho' Camacho, who was shot in the face this week, died on Saturday after being removed from life support, Rio Piedras Medical Director Ernesto Torres told reporters. He was 50.

Mary Kom will not participate in boxing Nationals this year

Olympic bronze-medallist M C Mary Kom will skip this year's national women's boxing championships as she wants some new names to take centre stage in the domestic arena.

Dubai golf: Jeev dedicates course record to ailing mum

Jeev Milkha Singh dedicated a sparkling eight-under-par 64 to his ailing 76-year-old mother back home in India after equalling the course record in the DP World Tour Championship third round on Saturday.

November 23, 2012

IOC warns IOA of ban if Sport code is followed in polls

In a new twist to controversial elections of the IOA, the International Olympic Committee warned of a possible ban on the national sports body if government regulations are followed in its poll on December 5.

We lose on penalties because I can't take one: Mourinho
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho cannot understand why his sides consistently fail to deliver in penalty shootouts after revealing it took extraordinary circumstances for him to shake off his bad luck in his only final shootout win in 2008. Ten Tottenham fans injured in Rome attack

Ten supporters of English soccer club Tottenham Hotspur were injured, one of them seriously, during an attack in Rome in the early hours of Thursday ahead of a Europa League match against Serie A side Lazio, police said.

November 22, 2012

Govt gives first instalment of Olympics grant to IOA
Out of approved assistance of Rs 1.07 crore, the first instalment of Rs.83.19 lakh, representing 75 per cent of the approved grant, has been released to the IOA. Former world No 1 Wang Lin sends Saina packing
Olympic bronze medallist Saina Nehwal crashed out of the Hong Kong Super Series after losing to former world No 1 Wang Lin of China in the second round on Thursday. The third-seeded Indian failed to match Wang, currently ranked No 61, with her smashes and went down 19-21, 15-21 in 37 minutes. Swimming Australia chief resigns in wake of Olympic flop
An enquiry into Australia's worst Olympic performance for 20 years, where their swimmers failed to win an individual title and ended up with just relay gold, six silver and three bronze medals, is scheduled to get underway next week. Drogba asks FIFA for special loan deal

Ivory Coast striker Didier Drogba has asked FIFA for special permission to leave China's Shanghai Shenhua on loan before the January transfer window, Chinese media reported on Thursday.

Guardiola won't decide on future until early 2013

Former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola, linked in the media with the Chelsea job after the sacking of Roberto Di Matteo, will not make any decision on his future until early next year, his agent said.

November 21, 2012

Ghosal, Chinappa crowned Maharashtra champions

Top seeds Saurav Ghosal and Joshana Chinappa lived up to reputation and emerged supreme in the 37th Bombay Gymkhana Maharashtra State Open Senior Squash Championships on Wednesday.

Govt steps in to resolve dispute over Sports Code
The government on Wednesday stepped in to sort out the dispute surrounding implementation of the Sports Code in the upcoming Indian Olympic Association elections by seeking a meeting with the International Olympic Committee. IOA elections rescheduled for December 5
The high-profile elections of the Indian Olympic Association will now be held on December 5, ten days after its earlier scheduled date of November 25 following the resignation of Election Commission chairman S Y Quraishi. Chelsea discard Di Matteo after Juventus defeat

Chelsea have parted company with manager Roberto Di Matteo just six months after the Italian led the London club to a first Champions League title.

NBA: D'Antoni at the helm as Lakers beat Nets
Lakers coach Mike D'Antoni took charge from the sideline for the first time on Tuesday as Los Angeles leaned heavily on their defense to earn a gritty 95-90 win over the Brooklyn Nets. Kashyap, Saina enter second round of Hong Kong Open
Parupalli Kashyap showed nerves of steel to shock world No 10 Jan Jorgensen of Denmark in an edge-of-the-seat men's singles match to advance to the second round at the Hong Kong Super Series on Wednesday. The Indian ace, who reached the quarter-finals at the London Olympics, prevailed 24-22, 20-22, 22-20 in 68 minutes, at the Hong Kong Coliseum in Kowloon.

November 20, 2012

Ghosal, Suchde set up title showdown

Top seed Joshna Chinappa and second seed Urwashi Joshi also registered comfortable wins to enter the women's final, in the 37th Bombay Gymkhana Maharashtra State Open Senior Squash Championship on Tuesday.

FIFA to hear case over South Korea Olympic protest
The case of the South Korean soccer player who inflamed a diplomatic row with Japan by waving a political placard at the London Olympic soccer tournament will be heard again by FIFA's disciplinary committee on Tuesday. NBA: Nuggets put brakes on Grizzlies' sizzling streak
Denver snapped the Memphis Grizzles' eight-game winning streak with a 97-92 victory over the NBA's hottest team on Monday.

November 19, 2012

5 NSF heads write to IOC, says Randhir violated Charter

Top officials of five National Sports Federations on Monday claimed Randhir Singh has violated the Olympic Charter by approaching the government to seek clarification on his candidature for the president's post of the upcoming polls of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).

Kunal Kapoor to turn professional racer

Taking his passion for racing to the next level, actor Kunal Kapoor has decided to pursue his hobby as a professional sport.

Shevchenko turns down offer to become Ukraine coach

Former Ukraine striker Andriy Shevchenko has turned down an offer to manage the national team, he said on Monday.

BFI appoints Scott Flemming as head coach
The Basketball Federation of India (BFI) announced the appointment of Scott Flemming as the head coach of Indian senior men's national basketball team.

November 18, 2012

India finish fifth in World Team Squash
India capped off their impressive run in the WSF Women's World Team Squash Championship with a best-ever fifth place finish, defeating Ireland 2-1 in the classification match at the La Parnasse Arena in Nimes, France.

November 17, 2012

IOA election in jeopardy after Quraishi resigns
The much-anticipated Indian Olympic Association (IOA) election took a dramatic twist on Saturday with the chairman of the election committee S Y Quraishi resigning from the post. Second fatality in two days in Macau GP
The Macau Grand Prix suffered a second fatal accident in two days on Friday when a Hong Kong-based touring car driver died in a crash during qualifying on the street circuit, organisers said. Aussies not giving up on Beckham

Australia soccer chief David Gallop was not surprised David Beckham's management denied he had any interest in playing in the A-League but said that did not mean there was no possibility of it happening.

Woods visits did nothing for Aussie golf, says Thomson

Tiger Woods's taxpayer-funded visits Down Under did nothing to help Australia's ailing golf tour, which is stuck in a losing battle for relevance unless it does more to embrace Asia, according to five-times British Open champion Peter Thomson.

November 16, 2012

Kashyap bows out of China Open
The Indian lost his quarter-final match to local favourite Zhengming Wang in straight games at the US$ 350,000 China Open Super Series Premier badminton event, in Shanghai, on Friday. Saina retains third place in world rankings
London Olympics bronze medallist Saina Nehwal retained third place in the latest world badminton rankings, announced on Friday. Sports Code unacceptable for IOA polls: IOC
The International Olympic Committee has rejected the decision to hold the upcoming elections of Indian Olympic Association under Sports Code of the government and made it clear that the polls will have to be held "exclusively" under the Olympic Charter and the IOA constitution. We're planning to open sports schools: Singh
Sports Minister Jitendra Singh said the Ministry is planning to open sports schools, sports universities and 30 centres of excellence across the country to ensure better facilities for the sportspersons. Neymar's shocking spot kick branded 'worst penalty ever'

Brazil striker Neymar stepped up to take a penalty against Colombia in a friendly game on Wednesday night in the US that could have won the match for them, but the highly-rated forward made a mess of it when he fired his shot way over the bar, way over most of the stands at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium, and towards the seats near the top tier.

Beckham linked with move to Australia

David Beckham could be set to move to the A-League after Football Federation Australia (FFA) said on Friday they had been approached by the former England captain's management.

McIlroy set to miss cut in Hong Kong

World No. 1 and defending champion Rory McIlroy was set to miss the cut at the Hong Kong Open on Friday after suffering a nightmare with his putter.

Evra says Man United would always remain superior to City

Manchester United defender Patrice Evra has claimed they would always stay superior to bitter rivals Manchester City despite Roberto Mancini's men winning the Premier League last season on a dramatic final day.

Tottenham's Dembele out of Arsenal derby

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Mousa Dembele has been ruled out of Saturday's north London derby against Arsenal with a hip injury.

Police driving me to suicide, says Pinki Pramanik
Asian Games gold medal winner Pinki Pramanik, who was charged of rape and cheating after medical reports confirmed that 'she' was actually a 'man', has claimed that the police is driving her to commit suicide. MLS: Henry nominated for MVP award

Former France and Arsenal striker Thierry Henry is one of three players nominated for Major League Soccer's Most Valuable Player award, the league said.

Keep jeering me, Liverpool's Suarez tells opposing fans
Liverpool talisman Luis Suarez is happy for opposition supporters to jeer him as it only serves to motivate him more, the Uruguayan said on Thursday.

November 15, 2012

Kashyap in quarter-finals of China Open
London Olympics quarter-finalist Parupalli Kashyap showed nerves of steel to beat seventh seeded Vietnamese Tien Minh Nguyen 12-21, 22-20, 21-14 to reach the last eight of the China Super Series in Shanghai on Thursday. Hong Kong Open: Randhawa tied 17th

Indian golfer Jyoti Randhawa opened strongly with a two-under 68 to be placed at tied 17th after the first round of UBS Hong Kong Open at the Hong Kong Golf club on Thursday.

Tired McIlroy makes poor start in Hong Kong

Tiredness caught up with Rory McIlroy on Thursday and the world golf number one could shoot only a three-over-par 73 on the opening day of the Hong Kong Open.

Pele undergoing physiotherapy after hip surgery
A Brazilian hospital says Pele is undergoing physiotherapy following surgery on his right hip. Livestrong cancer charity drops Armstrong name from title

The Lance Armstrong Foundation has formally dropped the name of the disgraced cyclist from its title, the organization said on Wednesday, marking the latest move by the cancer charity to distance itself following the biggest doping scandal in the sport's history.

November 14, 2012

Kashyap wins, Sindhu loses at China Open
Young P V Sindhu went down after a gallant fight in the opening round, but London Olympics quarter-finalist Parupalli Kashyap kept Indian hopes afloat with a straight-games win to reach the second round of the China Open, in Shanghai, on Wednesday. Rashid Khan stays ahead, Lohan fires bogey-free 65
Delhi golfer Rashid Khan held on to his lead in round two of the PGTI Players Championship after carding a sedate one-under-71 at the Aamby Valley Golf Course on Wednesday. India in last 8 of women's World team squash
India created history on Wednesday, booking a maiden quarter-final berth at the WSF Women's World Team Squash Championship after an upset 2-1 victory over eighth seeds The Netherlands, at Nimes, France. Bryant says excited about new Lakers coach D'antoni

Stunned though he was that Phil Jackson has not returned as Los Angeles Lakers head coach, All-Star guard Kobe Bryant said on Tuesday he was excited about the prospect of playing under new appointee Mike D'Antoni.

India enter pre-quarters of World Team Squash C'ship
India sent Argentina crashing out of the WSF Women's World Team Squash Championship to set up an intriguing pre-quarter final clash against The Netherlands in Nimes, France. UCI set to open doping hotline

Cycling's governing body is considering opening a hotline for riders wishing to discuss doping-related issues, International Cycling Union (UCI) president Pat McQuaid has said.

Jeev pulls out of Hong Kong Open
Jeev Milkha Singh, who withdrew after the first round of the Singapore Open, has also pulled out of the Hong Kong Open to let his injured right-hand finger heal comepletely ahead of the big events coming up. Police drop probe into complaint against Clattenburg

London's Metropolitan Police have dropped an investigation into a complaint made against referee Mark Clattenburg for alleged inappropriate language towards a Chelsea player last month.

November 13, 2012

World Team Squash: India stun Ireland
India caused the first major upset in the WSF Women's World Team Squash Championship when they beat higher-ranked Ireland in a dramatic tie which went down to the wire in Nimes, France.

November 12, 2012

Shevchenko invited to be Ukraine national coach

Retired Ukraine striker Andriy Shevchenko has been asked to coach the national team seeking to qualify for the 2014 World Cup finals in Brazil, the Ukraine soccer federation said on Monday.

Medical reports confirm Pinki Parmanik is male
A medical report was submitted by the police in a court in Barasat, West Bengal, on Monday, after investigations confirmed Asian Games gold medal winner Pinki Pramanik to be a male.

November 11, 2012

Svitolina bags her maiden WTA title
Eighteen-year-old Elina Svitolina of Ukraine denied veteran Kimiko Date-Krumm a date with history when she overpowered the Japanese 6-2, 6-3 to lift the Indian Open, her maiden WTA title. Manassero clinches Singapore Open after playoff

Italian teenager Matteo Manassero displayed all the nerve and experience of a seasoned veteran to edge out Louis Oosthuizen on the third hole of a playoff and claim a thrilling Singapore Open victory on Sunday.

McIlroy emulates Donald with dual money list win

Rory McIlroy followed in the footsteps of Ryder Cup team mate Luke Donald when he became the second player to win the money list titles in both Europe and the United States on Sunday.

Indian Oil wins Beighton Cup hockey
Favourites Indian Oil retained the Beighton Cup hockey title, outplaying Punjab National Bank (PNB) 5-2 in the title clash in Kolkata on Sunday. Singapore Open: Chowrasia at tied 17th, Kapur slips
SSP Chowrasia carded a disappointing one-under 70 in the final round but was the best-placed Indian at tied 17th in the Barclays Singapore Open golf tournament in Singapore on Sunday. Dhanraj Pillay against foreign coaches

Former captain Dhanraj Pillay is not interested in talking about Indian hockey anymore after India's forgettable London Olympics performance and also questioned the rationale behind appointing foreign coaches.

Klitschko beats Wach on points to retain titles
World heavyweight champion Vladimir Klitschko was made to go the distance against Polish challenger Mariusz Wach but earned a unanimous points decision on Saturday to retain his four title belts.

November 10, 2012

Sharath stuns Patrick in Polish Open
Ace Indian paddler Achanta Sharath Kamal stunned world No 31 Patrick Baum of Germany in a gruelling seven-setter to enter the pre-quarterfinals of the IITF World Tour Polish Open at Poznan. IPL-style badminton league in 2013, $1mn prize money

In the lines of the hugely popular Indian Premier League cricket Twenty20 tournament, the Badminton Association of India on Saturday launched a franchise-based Indian Badminton League (IBL), which will see the top Indian players play along with the best players from around the world next year.

Kapur lies 7th as five Indians make cut; McIlroy survives

Shiv Kapur led a bunch of five Indians into the money rounds even as six others fell by the wayside at the Singapore Open on Saturday.

TN govt allots Rs 22.05 cr towards sports infrastructure
With a view to encourage youngsters to take up sports, the Tamil Nadu government has alloted Rs 25.05 crore to improve basic infrastructure facilities in rural areas of the state. 3 bronze for India's Chanu at Asian Jr Weightlifting
Saikhom Mirabai Chanu clinched three bronze medals for India on the opening day of the 19th Junior Women Asian Weightlifting Championships in Yangon, Myanmar. NBA: LA Lakers fire coach Brown after dismal start
Los Angeles Lakers coach Mike Brown has been fired after a 1-4 start to the season, the 16-time National Basketball Association (NBA) champions said on Friday.

November 09, 2012

Wiggins leaves hospital, coach Sutton in crash

Bradley Wiggins was released from hospital on Thursday following his bike crash as British Cycling announced that Shane Sutton, the team's head coach, had also been knocked off his bike.

Chowrasia, Lahiri improve on rain-hit Day 2 in Singapore

Indian golfers SSP Chowrasia and Anirban Lahiri completed their opening round and improved their positions before rain left them stranded midway through the second round at the Barclay's Singapore Open on Friday.

Rahul wins three gold in Asian Youth lifting
Ragala Venkat Rahul won three gold medals to help India increase their medals tally to seven on the second day of the 14th Asian Youth (boys & girls') Weightlifting Championships at Yangon, Myanmar, on Friday. Competing in the 77 kg category, Rahul secured the yellow metal in snatch, clean and jerk and overall with a total lift of 280 kg. Tvesa scores start-to-finish win at Usha DGC Open
Tvesa Malik completed a fine start-to-finish victory, despite dropping a double bogey and a bogey in the last three holes, at the Usha Delhi Golf Club Ladies Open, at the Delhi Golf Club. It also brought Tvesa her maiden title this season. Malhotra re-elected Archery Association head
Vijay Kumar Malhotra was re-elected as President of the Archery Association of India after comprehensively beating Assam unit vice-president BVP Rao in controversy-marred elections, which took place after three postponements. Stosur hopes to put lean year behind her

Samantha Stosur hopes to banish her home court demons on the way to more Grand Slam glory after failing to add to her major trophies in 2012, the Australian said on Friday.

Algeria replaces India in World Series of Boxing
India's loss has turned out to be Africa's gain in the World Series of Boxing as Algeria Desert Hawks have replaced Mumbai Fighters in the semi-professional league's second season starting later this month. Europa League: Inter, Leverkusen reach last 32

Inter Milan and Bayer Leverkusen cruised into the Europa League knockout stage with emphatic wins on Thursday but holders Atletico Madrid and former winners Liverpool suffered surprise defeats.

Gerrard set to win 100th England cap
Steven Gerrard is set to become the sixth England player to win 100 caps after being named in Roy Hodgson's squad to play Sweden in a friendly in Stockholm next Wednesday.

November 08, 2012

Vietnam's Hanoi to host 2019 Asian Games
The Vietnamese capital, which hosted the 2003 Southeast Asian Games and the 2009 Asian Indoor Games, beat Indonesia's Surabaya for the right to stage the 18th edition of the event after Dubai pulled out at the last minute. Finger injury forces Jeev to pull out of Singapore Open
Former champion, Jeev Milkha Singh pulled out of the Barclays Singapore Open after further injuring his finger during the Pro-Am. BAI, SAI will take a call on Prajakta matter: Gopichand
National coach Pullela Gopichand refused to comment on the controversy over Prajakta Sawant who had accused him of "mental harassment" in her petition to the Bombay High Court which has allowed the shuttler to attend the ongoing training camp at his badminton academy in Hyderabad. Indian sport is moving in right direction: Gopichand

Sports in India has started moving in the right direction and the impact of the six medals the country won at the London Olympics will be huge, said national badminton coach Pullela Gopichand in Mumbai on Thursday.

I-League: Salgaocar confident of victory over Churchill

Salgaocar Sports Club would like to continue their winning streak when they take on upbeat Churchill Brothers Sports Club in the I-League clash at Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on Friday.

Wiggins sustains minor injuries in van collision

Tour de France and Olympic time trial champion Bradley Wiggins will spend the night in hospital with minor rib injuries after a collision with a van near his home in Lancashire, northern England on Wednesday.

Coe formally elected BOA chairman
Sebastian Coe, chief organiser for the 2012 London Games, was formally elected as chairman of the British Olympic Association (BOA).

November 07, 2012

Why Randhir Singh is contesting IOA elections

Indian Olympic Association secretary-general Randhir Singh, who is contesting for the post of president, said he reconsidered his earlier decision of not contesting the elections after persuasion from senior administrators and eminent sportspersons for the sake of Indian sport.

Team Sky say anti-doping policy will pay off in long term
Cycling's Team Sky could suffer in the short term from losing staff because of its anti-doping stance but that it is a price worth paying, team head Dave Brailsford said on Tuesday. Sushil to train young wrestlers at Railway Academy

London Games silver medallist Sushil Kumar is hoping to produce more Olympic medal winners at the newly-inaugurated Indian Railway Wrestling Academy.

Former Armstrong teammate admits positive test
South African cyclist David George, a former teammate of Lance Armstrong, has tested positive for the banned drug EPO (Erythropoietin), he said on Tuesday.

November 06, 2012

Banned athletes to appeal NADA decision
The 11 athletes, including Asian Games bronze medallist wrestler Mausam Khatri, who were handed two-year bans by a NADA panel for flunking dope tests, are planning to appeal the decision. CL: Spartak without key strikers for Benfica clash
Spartak Moscow will be without leading strikers Emmanuel Emenike and Welliton for Wednesday's Champions League Group G match at Benfica, the Russian club said on Tuesday. No reason to ban long putters, says Scott

Adam Scott shot down a putter rule change suggestion by Tiger Woods on Tuesday and told golf's governing bodies to focus on more pressing issues as the Australian leapt to the defence of controversial long putters.

CL: Artists Bayern in sparkling form as Lille await

Bayern Munich are brimming with confidence ahead of Wednesday's Champions League Group F clash at home to France's Lille with president Uli Hoeness labelling their current form as "football art".

Asian Kabaddi: India walk out in protest, Pakistan wins
Pakistan clinched the Asian Kabaddi Championship title after arch-rivals India walked out of the field in protest against the referee's decision to penalize their coach. A fan arrested over alleged racist gesture at Chelsea
A man has been arrested over an allegation that a racist gesture was made to a player during last week's Capital One Cup match between Chelsea and Manchester United, London's Metropolitan police said on Monday. Manchester United to honour manager Ferguson

Manchester United will commemorate manager Alex Ferguson's 26th year in charge of the team by unveiling a statue of the Scot this month, the Premier League leaders said in a statement.

November 05, 2012

India's Prarthana goes down fighting in first round
India's Prarthana Thombare came tantalisingly close to registering an upset victory in her debut match on the WTA tour before losing 3-6, 6-2, 6-4 against Chang Liu of China in the opening round of Indian Open Challenger tournament in Pune. Fourteen-yr-old Chinese golfer earns ticket to US Masters

Guan Tianlang is poised to become the youngest golfer to play at the US Masters after the Chinese 14-year-old won the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship in Thailand on Sunday.

November 03, 2012

Ask Hockey India about Olympic flopshow: Nobbs

India's hockey coach Michael Nobbs refused to dwell on the team's London Olympics flopshow, saying that all queries on the matter should be directed to Hockey India, not him.

Liverpool will strengthen in January, says Rodgers

Liverpool will have funds to strengthen their squad in January after the last transfer window left it thin on the ground, manager Brendan Rodgers said on Friday.

WADA won't appeal against Armstrong ruling

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has announced it will not appeal against the decision to ban American cyclist Lance Armstrong for life and strip him of his seven Tour de France titles.

Messi's girlfriend gives birth to son Thiago

World Player of the Year Lionel Messi has become a father for the first time following the birth of his son Thiago on Friday.

November 02, 2012

40 Indian athletes in IAAF list of dope offenders
India has nothing to boast of in terms of achievements at world stage in athletics, but the country has topped in the number offenders caught for doping under IAAF rules. Bhullar fires 68 to set up weekend move at HSBC Champions

Gaganjeet Bhullar added to his growing reputation with a four-under par 68 that saw him jump from overnight 46th to tied 27th at the midway stage of the US $7 million WGC-HSBC Champions in Dongguan, China, on Friday. The 24-year-old Bhullar is three-under 141 for 36 holes and a good showing over the weekend will boost his ranking further.

Klinsmann open to discussion over Donovan's future

United States national team coach Juergen Klinsmann says he will meet with all-time leading goalscorer Landon Donovan after the forward said he was unsure about his future in the game.

Tiger blames fatigue for missing WGC event

Tiger Woods said fatigue was the reason he skipped this week's World Golf Championship event in China.

November 01, 2012

McCarthy takes over as Ipswich boss
Former Ireland and Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Mick McCarthy has been named boss of English Championship (second division) side Ipswich Town, the club said on Thursday. IOC to investigate Armstrong's Olympic medal

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) will investigate Lance Armstrong's 2000 Olympics bronze medal after the American was stripped of his seven Tour de France titles in the biggest doping scandal to hit the sport.

Bin Hammam loses appeal against latest ban

Former FIFA presidential candidate Mohamed Bin Hammam has lost his appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against his latest ban from football, soccer's governing body said.

Britain seeks clarity on Serbian brawl charges

The British government is investigating the full details of criminal charges laid by Serbian police against two England Under-21 soccer players after this month's Euro 2013 playoff ended in a mass brawl.

Chastened Lakers hope 'time' will be the healer

The Los Angeles Lakers had very little time to lick their wounds after stunningly losing their regular-season opener to the Dallas Mavericks but, almost to a man, they said that time was their most precious commodity.

NYC marathon will proceed as planned: Bloomberg

The New York City Marathon, one of the premier US distance-running events, will take place as planned on Sunday, Mayor Michael Bloomberg said on Wednesday night, as the city struggles to recover from heavy flooding caused by massive storm Sandy.

October 31, 2012

NBA: Weakened Mavericks stun Lakers

The heavily anticipated new era of Los Angeles Lakers basketball began with a whimper as their much vaunted team bristling with All-Stars were beaten 99-91 by an under-strength Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday.

Thorpe talks sexuality, beating depression in new book

Australian swimming great Ian Thorpe has hit out at the innuendo surrounding his sexuality that has followed him for much of his career, and said the most frustrating thing was the implication that he would lie about it.

October 30, 2012

Danish badminton great Gade hangs his racquet

Peter Gade has brought down the curtain on his prolific career happy in the knowledge Danish badminton is in the hands of several promising young compatriots.

Cycling team's director quits after doping revelation
Team Sky sports director Steven de Jongh has quit after three years following his admission that he took a banned substance earlier in his career, the British team said on Monday.

October 29, 2012

McIlroy edges Woods to claim China exhibition victory

Rory McIlroy staked an early lead before holding on to win by a stroke in his "Duel at Jinsha Lake" 18-hole exhibition event against Tiger Woods on Monday.

Ferrer wins Valencia Open for sixth title of year
World No 5 David Ferrer beat unseeded Ukrainian Alexandr Dolgopolov 6-1 3-6 6-4 to win the Valencia Open for the third time on Sunday, claiming his sixth ATP World Tour title this year. Pankaj Advani wins his seventh World billiards crown

Ace Indian cueist Pankaj Advani proved his class once again as he notched up his seventh World Billiards Championship title after comprehensively beating defending champion and seasoned Englishman Mike Russell in the final in Leeds.

October 28, 2012

Chinappa wins Penang Open squash title
India's top squash player Joshna Chinappa claimed the IJM Land Penang Open after defeating top seed and local favourite Siti Munirah Jusoh in straight games in Penang on Sunday. Saina Nehwal loses in French Open final

Olympics Bronze medallist shuttler Saina Nehwal failed to clinch back-to-back title as she suffered a shock straight-game defeat to Japanese Minatsu Mitani in the summit clash of the French Open Super Series in Paris on Sunday.

Everton, Liverpool share spoils in Merseyside derby

Everton battled back from two goals down to draw 2-2 at home to Liverpool in the first Merseyside derby of the season at Goodison Park on Sunday.

I-League: EB look to maintain winning momentum

East Bengal will aim to continue their winning form while appearing in their first home match of the I-League, against Pune FC, at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium, on Monday.

Yates quits cycling, no link with Armstrong say Team Sky
Team Sky sports director Sean Yates is retiring from cycling but there is no link between his decision and the team's zero-tolerance anti-doping charter, the British outfit said on Sunday. Rupesh wins World Billiards point frame title
Rupesh Shah became only the fifth Indian cueist to lift the world title twice after he beat Australia's Matthew Bolton 6-2 in the final of the World Billiards in the point frame format in Leeds. Coe reveals Olympic fears that kept him awake at night

London Olympics organising committee chairman Sebastian Coe had sleepless nights worrying about possible terrorist attacks during this year's Games, according to his autobiography to be published next month.

October 27, 2012

Lippi leads Guangzhou to Chinese Super League title
World Cup-winning coach Marcello Lippi added the Chinese Super League title to his long list of honours after a late goal by Gao Lin meant Guangzhou Evergrande became the first side to retain the title. I-League: Easy win for Churchill Brothers

Churchill Brothers Sports Club continued with their winning run in the I-League as they coasted to a 3-1 win over Mumbai FC, at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, Goa on Saturday.

I-League: Sporting desperate for their first win
After a great start to their I-League campaign, Shillong Lajong will host Sporting Clube de Goa in a third round match at JN Sports Complex, in Shillong, on Sunday. Chong Wei invites fans to wedding via Facebook

Anyone who wants to attend the wedding of Malaysian badminton player Lee Chong Wei could be one of 10 lucky fans winning invitations by posting on his Facebook page.

Bundesliga: Son continues to shine for Hamburg
Hamburg SV's South Korea forward Son Heung-min scored an early goal to set them on the way to a 2-0 win at lowly Augsburg with his fifth Bundesliga strike of the season on Friday. Steely Saina storms into French Open final

London Olympics bronze medallist Saina Nehwal stamped her authority to storm into the final of the French Super Series outclassing German Juliane Schenk in straight sets in the women's badminton singles in Paris.

October 26, 2012

No Tour de France winner from 1999-2005: UCI

No one will replace Lance Armstrong as winner of the Tour de France from 1999-2005 after the American was stripped of the titles for doping, the International Cycling Union (UCI) said on Friday.

First look: India Grand Prix trophy unveiled

The Indian Grand Prix trophy was unveiled at Buddh International Circuit on Friday.

Three-times Tour winner LeMond urges McQuaid to resign
Three-times Tour de France winner Greg LeMond has called on International Cycling Union (UCI) President Pat McQuaid to quit in the wake of the Lance Armstrong doping scandal.

October 25, 2012

Saina reaches world number 3 after Denmark win

Riding on her maiden Denmark Open title triumph, India's ace shuttler Saina Nehwal gained a position to climb up to third spot in the latest World badminton ranking announced on Thursday.

Saina enters quarter-finals of French Open
London Olympics bronze medallist shuttler, Saina Nehwal notched up a comfortable straight-game victory over Thailand's Sapsiree Taerattanachai at the French Open Super Series in Paris on Thursday and stayed on course for her second successive title after Denmark Open triumph last week. Lakers to rest Bryant ahead of season start

The Los Angeles Lakers have shut down Kobe Bryant for the remainder of the preseason in a bid to get the ailing All Star guard fit for next week's regular season opener, the team said.

English Players' Union backs tougher racism sanctions

The English Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) issued a six-point action plan to help deal with racism on Wednesday following a series of high profile developments in the fallout from the John Terry-Anton Ferdinand case.

Some Champions League groups are a joke: Mourinho

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho described some of the Champions League groups as a "joke" after watching his side lose 2-1 at fellow heavyweights Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday.

Maradona celebrates 52nd b-day in Kannur, enthralls fans

Argentine soccer legend Diego Maradona jived to Latin numbers, and mesmerised hundreds of fans with his football skills in Kerala's Kannur city on Wednesday.

October 24, 2012

Vishnu crashes out; Jeevan in quarters
Davis Cupper Vishnu Vardhan crashed out of the men's singles pre-quarterfinals of the $15,000 CCI-ITF men's Futures Tennis tournament in Mumbai on Wednesday. Saina enters 2nd round of French Open Super Series
Fresh from her maiden Denmark Open title triumph, India ace Saina Nehwal started her French Open Super Series campaign in style, registering a hard-fought win over China's Li Han in women's singles event in Paris. Indian shuttlers in for a bonanza in IBL
Indian shuttlers lower down the ranks, who get pittance as prize money, are in for a bonanza when they take part as members of one of the franchisee outfits at the proposed Indian Badminton League.

October 23, 2012

London Olympics under budget despite high running costs

Recognised as one of the best Olympics ever, London 2012 came with a hefty price tag for the British taxpayer despite government figures on Tuesday showing a 377 million pounds saving on the budget for the sporting spectacle.

Armstrong deletes Tour wins reference in Twitter profile

A day after he was banned from cycling for life and stripped of his seven Tour de France titles, Lance Armstrong took the first step towards accepting the sanctions by deleting reference to his Tour wins on his Twitter biography.

SAG: Ex-LTTE men make SL's shooting probables list
Sri Lanka has included three ex-LTTE marksmen as members of the national rifle shooters' pool for the South Asian Games to be held in New Delhi next year. USADA asserts, banning Armstrong just the start

The United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) has called for a full and independent investigation into doping in cycling in the wake of the Lance Armstrong scandal.

Armstrong's victims vindicated following USADA reports

The damning facts published this month by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), proving that cyclist Lance Armstrong was the ring leader of the most sophisticated doping scandal in the history of sports, has vindicated those who suffered at the hands of the American.

October 22, 2012

Prasad strikes gold at Finnish boxing tourney

L P Prasad (49 kg) clinched the only gold for India at the 33rd International Tammer Youth Boxing Tournament, beating England's Jack Bateson in the final, in Tampere, Finland. The 17-year-old put up a sterling performance to emerge victorious and bag his first international medal.

Armstrong banned for life, loses Tour de France titles

Lance Armstrong has been stripped of his seven Tour de France titles and banned for life after the International Cycling Union said on Monday it had ratified the United States Anti-Doping Agency's sanctions. The decision was announced at a UCI news conference.

Evans says never discussed doping with Armstrong doctor

Australia's 2011 Tour De France winner Cadel Evans has admitted meeting the Italian doctor at the heart of the Lance Armstrong scandal more than a decade ago but said they never discussed doping.

October 21, 2012

World Billiards: Advani, Sethi continue great form

Seven-time World champion Pankaj Advani, veteran Geet Sethi and Dhruv Sitwala continued their unbeaten run in the Time Format after outplaying their rivals in the World Billiards Championships in Leeds on Sunday.

Indian Open: Thailand's Wiratchant wins; Kapur 4th

Shiv Kapur was the best-placed Indian golfer at fourth after carding a blemish-free five-under 66 but it was Thai veteran Thaworn Wiratchant (66) who walked away with the top honours after clinching a thrilling play-off at the Hero Indian Open in Bangalore on Sunday.

Boxer's assured of silver at Finnish boxing tourney
Indian youth boxers Dheeraj Singh (52kg) and L P Prasad (49kg) were assured of at least silver medals after they entered the finals of the 33rd International Tammer Tournament in Tampere, Finland. AFC U-19: Indian women beat Bangladesh in qualifiers
Indian women's team began their AFC U-19 Championship qualifiers round one campaign on a winning note as they defeated Bangladesh 1-0 in their opening match at Melaka in Malaysia on Sunday. Alankamony clinches her second WISPA title
Asian junior gold medallist Anaka Alankamony claimed her second title and first one abroad in the women's professional squash tour when she stunned top seed Kylie Lindsay of New Zealand in the final of the Ipswich Open in Queensland on Sunday. Pedrosa weathers storm to claim Malaysia victory

Dani Pedrosa put on a wet-weather master class to capture a rain-shortened Malaysian Grand Prix on Sunday and keep the pressure on MotoGP championship leader Jorge Lorenzo after notching a fifth victory in six races.

Armstrong's fate looms as USADA decision out on Monday

The Lance Armstrong doping scandal reaches a decisive day on Monday when cycling's governing body announces whether it has ratified the US Anti-Doping Agency's sanctions but whatever happens the affair is set to run and run.

Arjun Atwal drops to third at McGladrey Classic

After dropping just one bogey in 36 holes, Arjun Atwal gave away no less than three in the third round to slip to tied third position from top at the McGladrey Classic golf tournament in St Simons Island, USA.

Indonesia Open golf: Smriti falters, ends tied eighth

Four dropped shots on the last four holes saw Smriti Mehra drop from tied second to tied eighth at the end of the $200,000 Enjoy Jakarta Ladies Indonesia Open.

Contador says focus on future after Armstrong gate

Cycling should try to put the Lance Armstrong doping case behind it, Spain's double Tour de France winner Alberto Contador, who returned from a two-year doping ban in August, said on Saturday.

October 20, 2012

Stosur beats Ivanovic to meet Wozniacki in final

Top seed Samantha Stosur reached her first final in eight months with a comeback 2-6, 6-3, 6-2 win over fourth-seeded Serbian Ana Ivanovic in the Kremlin Cup semi-finals on Saturday.

World billiards: Pankaj, Geet off to winning start

Seven-time world champion Pankaj Advani and veteran Geet Sethi along with Dhruv Sitwala secured comfortable victories over their respective rivals on the opening day of the World Billiards Championships in Leeds.

EPL: Mata doubles earns Chelsea victory at Spurs

Two goals by Juan Mata helped leaders Chelsea to a 4-2 victory in a captivating London derby at Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday as they maintained their unbeaten start to the Premier League season.

Saina enters Denmark Open semis

Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal set up a semifinal clash against old nemesis and World No. 1 Yihan Wang of China after easing past local hope Tine Baun in straight games at the Denmark Open badminton tournament in Odense, Denmark.

Record lap puts Lorenzo on pole in Malaysia

Jorge Lorenzo's record-shattering late burst put the MotoGP championship leader on pole position for Sunday's Malaysian Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit.

Atwal grabs lead at Sea Island

India's Arjun Atwal carded eight birdies and a lone bogey to rocket into a one-shot lead over Davis Love III and Jim Furyk after Friday's second round of the McGladrey Classic at Sea Island in Georgia.

October 19, 2012

Macau Open: Joshna Chinappa in semis, Dipika bows out
India's Joshna Chinappa kept the tri-colour fluttering by progressing into the semi-finals of the women's singles, even as compatriot Dipika Pallikal bowed out of the USD 25,000 Macau Open squash tournament on Friday. Ramsay takes three-shot lead at Hero Indian Open

Richie Ramsay of Scotland birdied four of his closing five holes as he raced into a three-shot lead at the halfway stage of the Hero Indian Open on Friday. The overnight co-leader fired a second successive five-under-par 66 for 10-under-par 132 at the Karnataka Golf Association course, in Bangalore.

Rabobank ends sponsorship of professional cycling

Dutch lender Rabobank said it will end its sponsorship of men's and women's professional cycling teams at the end of this year as the repercussions of the Lance Armstrong doping scandal continued to reverberate around the world.

Hudson says Torres can succeed Osgood

Former Chelsea playmaker Alan Hudson has waited almost 40 years for a new Peter Osgood and now he believes Fernando Torres can finally fill the boots of the 'King of Stamford Bridge'.

Shooter Vijay Kumar named 'Services Best Sportsman'

London Olympics silver medalist shooter Vijay Kumar was honoured with the 'Services Best Sportsman' award for 2012 at the Army Headquarters in New Delhi on Friday.

India's Smriti Mehra takes lead at Indonesia Ladies Open

Indian golfer Smriti Mehra charged to the top of the leaderboard on the opening day of the $200,000 Enjoy Jakarta Ladies Indonesia Open inJakarta after carding a three-under 69.

With tour in sight, cyclist Cavendish leaves Team Sky

Sprint ace Mark Cavendish is leaving Team Sky in order to fulfil his Tour de France ambitions after spending this year's race serving as a domestique for race winner Bradley Wiggins, the British team said on Thursday.

Cycling Australia official quits after doping admission
The vice president of Cycling Australia Stephen Hodge has resigned after admitting to doping during his professional career as the repercussions of the Lance Armstrong scandal continued to reverberate around the world on Friday.

October 18, 2012

Sania-Nuria bow out of Kremlin Cup
Sania Mirza could not end the season on a high as she and her partner Nuria Llagostera Vives were sent packing from the WTA Kremlin Cup by the American pair of Raquel Kops-Jones and Abigail Spears, in Moscow. Morrison, Ramsay share lead at Hero Indian Open
Englishman James Morrison and Richie Ramsay of Scotland got off to spirited starts at the Hero Indian Open to share the opening round lead on five-under-par 66 on Thursday. Saina storms into quarter-finals of Denmark Open

Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal continued her rampaging comeback and notched up a straight games victory over Minatsu Mitani of Japan to advance to the quarter-finals of the Denmark Super Series.

Terry will not appeal against racist abuse ban

Chelsea's John Terry will not appeal against his four-match ban and 220,000-pound fine for racially insulting Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand, the player said in a statement on Thursday.

Call for UCI chief to act on Armstrong affair or quit

International Cycling Union chief Pat McQuaid must immediately make clear the governing body's position on the Lance Armstrong doping affair or resign to prevent the collapse of world cycling, a commercial partner of the sport said on Thursday.

Vijay Kumar signs deal with sports marketing firm Percept

London Olympic Games silver medal-winning pistol shooter Vijay Kumar has been signed up by sports marketing firm, 'Percept', which will manage the Army marksman's brand image and endorsements.

Neymar shrugs off jet lag to score stunning goal

Santos striker Neymar, playing only one day after scoring twice for Brazil against Japan in Poland, shrugged off jet leg to score a stunning into the penalty area, cut inside another defender and fired a low shot into the corner of the goal to put his side 2-0 ahead.

Denmark Open: Sourabh upsets Peter Gade, enters 2nd rd
Rising Indian shuttler Sourabh Varma stunned world number eight and home favourite Peter Gade in straight games to enter the second round of the Denmark Open badminton tournament in Odense, Denmark. Sky team members issued with ultimatum
Members of the British cycling team Sky will be sacked unless they sign a document saying they have never doped, the team said. US lacks quality of defence for World Cup qualifiers

The United States advanced to the final round of qualifying for the 2014 World Cup finals with coach Juergen Klinsmann having discovered several new faces to add to his expanding list of options.

State of the Lance Armstrong Foundation's finances

Lance Armstrong stepped down on Wednesday as chairman of the Austin, Texas-based Livestrong cancer charity he founded in 1997.

October 17, 2012

Saina breezes in second round of Denmark Open
Returning to the court after a two month break, Saina Nehwal made a rampaging start to her campaign at the Denmark Open, reaching the second round with a comfortable straight-game victory over Yeon Ju Bae of Korea in Odense. Indian franchise set for pullout from WSB
Indian boxing is all set to get a massive jolt as the country's franchise in the World Series of Boxing (WSB) is preparing to pull out from the upcoming season due to paucity of funds and administrative hassles. AAI election: Rao braces up to take on Malhotra
With the much-awaited elections to the Archery Association of India (AAI) drawing closer, the national convenor of Clean Sports India B V P Rao, who will be challenging incumbent president V K Malhotra, has raised several issues to ensure that the elections are free and fair. Indian Olympic Association to set poll process rolling
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) will set the ball rolling for its election next month with the apex sports body expected to announce the details of the poll process in its Special General Body Meeting in New Delhi. Armstrong steps down from charity Livestrong

Lance Armstrong has stepped down as chairman of the charity he founded, Livestrong, after US anti-doping officials issued a scathing report detailing his use of performance-enhancing drugs.

Coe set to head British Olympic Association

London Olympics organising chief Sebastian Coe is set to take over as the chairman of the British Olympic Association (BOA) after his only opponent for the job pulled out on Tuesday.

Cyclist sacked after doping admission to USADA

American rider Levi Leipheimer has been sacked by the Quick-Step Cycling Team after admitting he took banned substances as part of the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) investigation into doping in the sport.

Ferrari denies involvement in Armstrong's doping scheme
Italian doctor Michele Ferrari denied on Tuesday accusations from the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) that he masterminded a doping programme for American cyclist Lance Armstrong.

October 16, 2012

Patchy India go down 0-2 to Singapore
India failed to maintain their recent impressive form as they went down 0-2 to Singapore in their international football friendly match in Singapore on Tuesday. IOC ponders Armstrong 2000 Games medal options

Lance Armstrong should come clean with a full doping confession, while the International Olympic Committee (IOC) will look into ways of taking away the former Tour de France champion's 2000 Games medal, IOC vice president Thomas Bach said on Tuesday.

Jaspal Rana appointed junior pistol coach

Multiple Asian Games gold medallist, Jaspal Rana, has been appointed chief coach for junior pistol shooters by the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI).

AFC apologises for 'racist' nickname against UAE team
Asian soccer's governing body the AFC has apologised for referring to the United Arab Emirates national side as the 'Sand Monkeys' in an article on their official website. 'Armstrong had motorcyclist deliver EPO in 1999'

Lance Armstrong paid for a motorcyclist to deliver the banned bloodbooster EPO to him during the 1999 Tour de France, former teammate Tyler Hamilton said in a BBC radio documentary broadcast on Monday.

October 15, 2012

Lampard, Bertrand ruled out of Poland WC qualifier

Midfielder Frank Lampard and defender Ryan Bertrand have been ruled out of England's 2014 World Cup qualifier against Poland in Warsaw through injury, the FA said in a statement on Sunday.

October 14, 2012

Hong Kong crowned Asian sevens champions

Hong Kong were crowned Asian sevens champions for the first time in its history after they defeated arch-rivals Japan 28-7 in a pulsating final at the Asian Sevens Series' Mumbai Sevens on Sunday.

Zidane eyes France job as he joins coaching programme

Zinedine Zidane is taking the first steps towards possibly managing the French national team in the future by joining coaching programme at the French Football National Institute (INF).

Chandhok's team JRM Racing grab season's best result
Karun Chandhok's team JRM Racing achieved its best result of the season by finishing second in the privateers' class and fifth overall the Six Hours of Fuji on Sunday. Bhullar wins Macau Open, Kapur fifth

Gaganjeet Bhullar survived an early back nine slump to bring home a solid three-under 68 on the final day and clinch the Venetian Macau Open title, his second title in less than a month, in Macau on Sunday.

Armstrong could take lie test over doping

Lance Armstrong may take a lie detector test to clear his name from doping allegations, his lawyer said on Sunday, even though he did not expect the result would change the public's opinion of the American cyclist.

Biographer exposes Armstrong's 'drug bus' in new book

Disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong had ruled his team with an iron grip, according to his own biographers, who exposes the lies, doping and bullying behind the sport in a new book.

MotoGP: Pedrosa stays in the hunt with Japan win

Honda's Dani Pedrosa kept his slim MotoGP title hopes alive by beating fellow Spaniard Jorge Lorenzo to win the Japanese Grand Prix for the second year in a row on Sunday.

Walcott ruled out of England's trip to Poland

England forward Theo Walcott has been ruled out of their World Cup qualifier in Poland on Tuesday with a chest injury, the FA said.

October 13, 2012

Smeltz gives NZ important World Cup win over Tahiti
Shane Smeltz moved into outright second as New Zealand's highest scorer as the All Whites completed a comfortable 2-0 victory over Tahiti in their Oceania World Cup qualifying clash in Papeete on Friday. Shamim Khan wins BILT Open golf in playoff
Shamim Khan clinched the BILT Open title on Saturday after edging Rashid Khan in an enthralling play-off at the Delhi Golf course. Kalmadi reveals he will not contest IOA elections
Under pressure to quit, tainted Indian Olympic Association President Suresh Kalmadi on Saturday said that he will not seek re-nomination in the IOA's upcoming elections and hinted at retiring from sports administration. Australian White admits to doping within Armstrong team
Australian Matt White has stepped down as Orica-GreenEDGE sports director on Saturday after admitting to doping while riding with Lance Armstrong's US Postal cycling team. No rider should inherit Lance titles: Tour director

The seven Tour de France titles stripped from American cyclist Lance Armstrong should not be awarded to any other rider because the sport at that time was tainted by doping, race director Christian Prudhomme said on Friday.

October 12, 2012

Bhullar stays in lead at Macau Open
After a blistering 63 in the opening round, Gaganjeet Bhullar added a more modest three-under 68 to move to 11-under 131 after the second round of the US $750,000 Venetian Macau Open on Friday. He held a three-shot lead over Thai newcomer Thitiphun Chuayprakong. I-League: Dempo drub Sporting Clube de Goa

Dempo Sports Club scored a comfortable 5-0 victory over Sporting Clube de Goa in the second round match of the I-League at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Friday.

Shanghai Masters: Hesh-Bopanna, Paes-Stepanek in semis
Mahesh Bhupathi and Rohan Bopanna may meet Leander Paes and Radek Stepanek in the summit clash of the Shanghai Masters after reaching the semifinals of the elite ATP tournament on Friday. Milan director plays down talk of Berlusconi exit

Silvio Berlusconi remains committed to his AC Milan soccer team, one of the club's directors said, playing down speculation that the former Italian prime minister was ready to sell up.

Rose edges Westwood to win Turkish jackpot

Justin Rose is $1.5 million richer after defeating fellow Englishman Lee Westwood by one stroke to win the inaugural World Golf Final in Turkey on Friday.

Borini injury adds to Liverpool's striking woes

Liverpool may have to make do with one recognised striker until the January transfer window after learning that Fabio Borini had fractured his foot training with Italy's under 21 side.

Tyson refused New Zealand visa again
Former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson has been refused a visa to visit New Zealand as part of a series of motivational speeches for the second time, the country's government said on Friday. Ex-Dutch international Davids joins Barnet

After a glittering career spent at European giants Barcelona, Juventus and AC Milan, former Dutch international Edgar Davids has dropped to the basement of English soccer to join fourth tier side Barnet.

Cycling Australia calls for criminalising doping in sport
Governments should look at criminalising doping in sports and increasing the resources of anti-doping agencies to include investigative functions in the wake of the Lance Armstrong revelations, the president of Cycling Australia has said. Malaysian athletics official banned for dope connection
Malaysian athletics official Karim Ibrahim has been hit with a six-year ban after he was found guilty of being involved in two doping cases, local media reported on Friday. Unfazed Armstrong chalking out plans for 2013

Unrepentant and seemingly unconcerned, Lance Armstrong was going about his business as usual on Thursday as the cycling world was left reeling by the revelations about his alleged role as a doping ringleader.

US soccer club to continue with Livestrong stadium name
US soccer team Sporting Kansas City plan to retain their Livestrong stadium name despite its link to doping-tainted cyclist Lance Armstrong, chief executive Robb Heineman said on Thursday. IOC not yet contemplating action against Armstrong

Lance Armstrong will keep his 2000 Sydney Games bronze medal for now despite being accused of cheating his way to the top in cycling, the International Olympic Committee saying it is still too early to take action.

October 11, 2012

Advani opts for World billiards after clash in dates

Faced with a tough choice between two top tournaments, the dates of which clash, India's ace cueist Pankaj Advani has decided to take part in the World Billiards Championship and skip the International Snooker Championship, both starting later this month.

USADA statement on doping conspiracy

Lance Armstrong and his team ran the most sophisticated doping programme in sport according to the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USDA) which released its report on the case against the US Postal cycling team on Wednesday.

What former teammates said against Armstrong

What former team mates of Lance Armstrong told the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) during their investigation into doping in cycling.

England's Lampard ruled out of San Marino match

England midfielder Frank Lampard has been ruled out the 2014 World Cup qualifier against San Marino with a knee injury, the Football Association said on Thursday.

Former Armstrong teammate admits to doping
Canadian cyclist Michael Barry, a former teammate of Lance Armstrong's, said on Wednesday he was pressured to take performance-enhancing drugs for the U.S. Postal Service Team.

October 10, 2012

Vijender to debut in 81kg category at 2013 World C'ship

The London Olympics disappointment behind him, Indian boxing star Vijender Singh is all set to pack a heavier punch from next year when he goes up a division to light heavyweight (81kg) for the World Championships.

Cyclist Lance Armstrong cheated: USADA report

'Tyson gets Australia visa for speaking event'

Former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson has been granted a visa to enter Australia for a series of motivational talks next month, organisers said on Wednesday.

October 09, 2012

Cole free for England after apology to FA boss

Chelsea defender Ashley Cole has apologised to English Football Association chairman David Bernstein for a Twitter insult he aimed at the FA last week and is free to play for England against San Marino on Friday.

Donovan back for US, Altidore axed

Landon Donovan, the US national team's all-time leading goal scorer, was named in the 24-man squad on Monday for the next CONCACAF region World Cup qualifiers after shaking off a knee injury.

McIlroy cool on Woods rivalry ahead of Turkey showdown

World No. 1 Rory McIlroy has played down talk of rivalry between himself and 14-time Major winner Tiger Woods at this week's inaugural eight-man World Golf Final in Turkey.

Bolt eyes 'three-peat' at 2016 Rio Olympics

Olympic sprint champion Usain Bolt has set his sights on defending his three titles at the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro rather than switching to another event, the six-time gold medallist said.

October 08, 2012

CSI urges IOC to ensure Kalmadi's ouster
Clean Sports India on Monday welcomed International Olympic Committee's direction to the IOA to suspend the tainted trio of Suresh Kalmadi, Lalit Bhanot and V K Verma with immediate effect and asked the IOC to ensure that the national body implements the decision.

October 06, 2012

Bhullar makes cut, but slips to tied 44th
Gaganjeet Bhullar, the lone Indian at the CJ Invitational Hosted by KJ Choi, who had to play four remaining holes from the second round this morning slipped down after 16 holes in the third round as play was suspended due to darkness on Saturday. 'Suspend Kalmadi, Verma, Bhanot from IOA'
In a major blow to the aspirations of Suresh Kalmadi, V K Verma and Lalit Bhanot ahead of the elections, the Ethics Commission of the International Olympic Committee has recomended that the tainted trio be suspended from all their functions within the IOA with immediate effect. Phelps produces stroke of genius at Dunhill pro-am

Olympic great Michael Phelps is known for the excellence of his swimming strokes but will now gain recognition for his putting stroke after sinking a 150-foot effort at the Dunhill Links pro-am.

Dane Agger signs new long-term deal at Liverpool
Denmark defender Daniel Agger has agreed a new long-term contract with Liverpool. Murray's Tokyo loss provides perspective

Andy Murray's shock semi-final defeat to Milos Raonic at the Japan Open on Saturday raised the same questions many thought had been answered by his Olympic gold medal and last month's US Open triumph.

October 05, 2012

I-League: Defending champs Dempo to take on Churchill

Defending champions Dempo will be looking to garner full points when they take on Churchill Brothers in the opening match of the I-League at the Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, Goa on Saturday.

Jeev lies sixth at the Canon Open in Japan
Indian golfer Jeev Milkha Singh stayed in contention for the title after carding a bogey-free two-under 70 in the second round to lie tied sixth at the Canon Open 2012 on the Japan Tour in Yokohama on Friday. Ennis named European athlete of the year

Olympic heptathlon champion Jessica Ennis has been named the women's European athlete of 2012, European Athletics said in a statement on Thursday.

October 03, 2012

Two Jamaican athletes face discipline for doping
Two Jamaican athletes, including 4x400 metres relay pool member Dominique Blake, are facing disciplinary action after testing positive for doping. Former World No. 1 Ochoa makes comeback in France

Former World No. 1 Lorena Ochoa is coming out of retirement to play in this week's Ladies French Open as a favour to her sponsors.

New Zealand bans former boxing champ Mike Tyson

New Zealand revoked an entry visa for former heavyweight boxing champion and convicted rapist Mike Tyson on Wednesday after a charity going to benefit from his visit dropped its support.

October 02, 2012

Women's boxing to debut at Glasgow Commonwealth Games

Following a hugely popular debut at the London Olympics in August, women's boxing has been included in the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, the sports organisers said.

October 01, 2012

Indian judokas win 2 silver, 3 bronze in Asian Ch'ship
Indian judokas bagged two silver and three bronze in the Asian Youth and Junior Championships held in Chinese Taipei. Hockey Nats: It's AI vs Karnataka; Haryana vs Punjab
Defending champions Haryana will face Punjab while hosts Karnataka will lock horns with Air India in the semi-finals of the second Hockey India Senior Men's National Championship in Bangalore. Pedrosa seals easy win in Aragon
Honda's Dani Pedrosa cruised to victory at the Aragon Grand Prix ahead of championship leader Jorge Lorenzo of Yamaha on Sunday to trim the gap to his Spanish compatriot to 33 points with four races left. Love stunned by US Ryder Cup collapse

United States Ryder Cup captain Davis Love III was left stunned as Europe stormed back from a 10-6 deficit to steal the golden trophy from under American noses at Medinah Country Club on Sunday.

East Bengal beat Dempo 3-2 to lift Federation Cup

East Bengal came back from behind and scored twice in the extra time to beat Dempo 3-2 for their eighth Federation Cup triumph at the floodlit Kanchenjunga Stadium in Siliguri on Sunday night.

September 30, 2012

Delhi Half Marathon: Kipyego, Wude win
Kenya's Edwin Kipyego survived stiff competition from fellow athletes before claiming the men's title, while Ethiopia's Yimer Wude emerged victorious in the women's elite category as around 32,000 Delhiites braved hot and humid conditions to run at the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon, in New Delhi on Sunday. Ryder Cup: US stretch lead to 10-6 at Medinah

Though Tiger Woods lost for a third time this week, the United States tightened their grip on the 39th Ryder Cup by taking a commanding 10-6 lead over holders Europe at Medinah Country Club on Saturday.

Imperious Juventus sweep poor Roma aside

Juventus scored three goals in the opening 19 minutes to destroy AS Roma 4-1 and move three points clear in Serie A on Saturday.

September 29, 2012

Sr Nat hockey: Karnataka, Jharkhand enter quarters
Hosts Karnataka and Jharkhand entered into the quarter-finals of second Hockey India Senior Men National Championship with emphatic victories in their respective last league matches in Bangalore on Saturday. Hooda announces cash award for wrestlers Geeta, Babita
Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda has announced cash award of Rs three lakh each for Geeta Phogat and Babita Phogat for winning bronze medals in the ongoing Women's World Wrestling Championship at Edmonton, Canada. Yuki bows out of China Open qualifiers
Young India Davis Cupper Yuki Bhambri stumbled at the first step of the ATP China Open qualifiers, losing in straight sets to Donald Young, in Beijing. India open campaign with 3-0 win over Wales
Indian eves launched their campaign in the Champions Challenge hockey tournament with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Wales in a Group-A match in Dublin on Saturday. Ryder Cup: US sizzle in sunshine to lead Europe 5-3

The United States, led by Phil Mickelson and Keegan Bradley, snatched a 5-3 lead over Europe on a gripping first day of the 39th Ryder Cup on Friday.

Hodgson knighted in Finland for services to football
England's globetrotting coach Roy Hodgson has been knighted in Finland for helping the minnows put their name on the football map. Chelsea win at Arsenal to continue strong start
Premier League leaders Chelsea beat London rivals Arsenal 2-1 with goals from Spaniards Fernando Torres and Juan Mata on Saturday to maintain their unbeaten start to the season while handing Arsenal their first defeat. Fed Cup: East Bengal wary against sublime Dempo

A depleted East Bengal defence would brighten the prospects of Dempo who are in sublime form as the top two teams of the last I-League square off in the 34th Federation Cup final at the Kanchenjungha Stadium in Siliguri on Sunday.

Petroleum clinch men's and women's badminton title
Defending champions Petroleum on Saturday extended their record run at the Inter State Badminton Championship, winning the men's and women's title for the 14th time at the Sher-e-Kashmir Indoor Complex in Srinagar on Saturday. Taiwan Masters: Bhullar rises to fifth

Indian golfer Gaganjeet Bhullar turned in the second-best card of the day -- a four-under 68 -- to make a sharp upward move to tied fifth after the third round of the Mercuries Taiwan Masters in on Saturday.

Wrestling: Geeta clinches 2nd bronze at World C'ships

In a historic first for Indian women's wrestling, the country notched up a second medal at the ongoing World Championships after Geeta Kumari (55kg) added another bronze to the one clinched by her sister Babita in Edmonton, Canada.

September 28, 2012

Dipika loses to Duncalf in US squash meet
Dipika Pallikal was beaten by world No 4 Jenny Duncalf of England in straight games in the first round of the Carol Weymuller Open Gold 50 squash tournament at the Heights Casino squash courts in Brooklyn, New York, on Thursday night. The world No 15-ranked Indian lost 9-11, 6-11, 6-11. Babita notches up bronze in World Championships
Babita Kumari (51kg) became only the second Indian woman wrestler to grab a medal at the World Championships when she clinched a bronze at the event in Edmonton, Canada. Ryder Cup: US have slight edge over Europe

After three days of practice in sunny weather, the 39th Ryder Cup finally gets underway on Friday at Medinah Country Club with hosts the United States appearing to hold a wafer-thin advantage over holders Europe.

September 27, 2012

Chess Masters: Anand held by leader Caruana

World Champion Viswanathan Anand could not break the ice for the third day running and drew with Fabiano Caruana of Italy in the third round of fifth Final Chess Masters in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Report on Armstrong ban to be submitted by Oct 15

A much-awaited report on Lance Armstrong's lifetime ban should be sent to cycling's world governing body no later than October 15, a spokesman for the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) said on Wednesday.

September 26, 2012

Weymuller Open: Dipika a win away from making main draw
India's ace woman squash player Dipika Pallikal thrashed Maria Toor Pakay of Pakistan in straight sets to storm into the final round of the qualifiers at the WSA Carol Weymuller Open Gold 50 event in New York. In-form Errani sends Bartoli packing in Tokyo

Italy's Sara Errani ended the French resistance at the Pan Pacific Open, rallying to defeat ninth seed Marion Bartoli 3-6, 6-2, 6-2 to reach the last eight of the WTA premier five event on Wednesday.

Platini determined to introduce Winter World Cup
UEFA president Michel Platini is determined to stage the World Cup during the European winter for the first time at the 2022 tournament in Qatar, the Frenchman told the London Evening Standard. Manchester City, Everton suffer League Cup exits

Premier League champions Manchester City and in-form Everton were both sent packing from the League Cup on Tuesday, their respective managers paying the price for making wholesale changes to their starting line-ups for the third round ties.

Woods accepts responsibility for US Ryder Cup woes

Tiger Woods may be the greatest golfer of his generation but at the Ryder Cup he has been Joe Average and on Tuesday accepted responsibility for the dismal US showing for the past 15 years.

United's Vidic ruled out for two months

Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic will be out of action for two months after undergoing knee surgery, the Premier League club said on Tuesday.

September 25, 2012

Club World Cup: Chelsea face Monterrey or Asian Champs
European champions Chelsea will face either Monterrey of Mexico or the winners of the Asian Champions League in the semi-finals of the Club World Cup following draw for the tournament. FA reject Terry claim of forcing his retirement

The English Football Association (FA) have rejected Chelsea defender John Terry's claims that an investigation into his alleged racial abuse of an opponent during a Premier League match last year had forced him to retire from England duty.

La Liga: Real Madrid labour to 2-0 win at lowly Rayo

Stuttering Spanish champions Real Madrid returned to winning ways in La Liga but were well short of their scintillating best in a laboured 2-0 victory at lowly city rivals Rayo Vallecano on Monday.

September 24, 2012

Ronjan wins silver at ISSF World Cup finals
Leaving behind the London Olympics disappointment, India's ace double trap shooter Ronjan Sodhi won a silver medal at the ISSF World Cup in Slovania. Haryana mountaineer Sauda scales Mount Elbrus
After scaling Mount Everest and Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, Mamta Sauda has added another feather to her cap having successfully climbed Europe's tallest peak Mount Elbrus recently. IOA threaten to move court over age, tenure rules
The Indian Olympic Association has termed the government's directive to adhere to age and tenure guidelines in its upcoming elections as 'illegal' and 'unconstitutional' and said that it could even move the Supreme Court if the case in Delhi High Court goes against it. USADA to send Armstrong file to UCI for ratifying ban

The United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) will send Lance Armstrong's file to the cycling world governing body this week to get the American rider's life ban ratified, its chief Travis Tygart told French daily L'Equipe on Monday.

Marseille win to record best start in 50 years

Olympique Marseille became the first Ligue 1 club in more than fifty years to win their first six league games when they beat Evian Thonon Gaillard 1-0 on Sunday.

Serie A: Milan lose again with two players sent off
AC Milan's season slumped to a new low on Sunday as they had two players sent off and lost 2-1 at Udinese while the bizarre postponement of the Cagliari-AS Roma match further damaged Serie A's fading credibility.

September 23, 2012

Abhishek Matoria is elected IBF President
In a change of guard at the Indian Boxing Federation, Rajasthan BJP MLA Abhishek Matoria was elected President of the body on Sunday. Kapur finishes tied 4th at Asia-Pacific Open

Indian golfer Shiv Kapur picked up the biggest cheque of the year after finishing tied fourth with a superb four-under 67 in the final round of the Asia-Pacific Panasonic Open in Hyogo, Japan on Sunday.

Deepika clinches silver at archery World Cup

India's top archer Deepika Kumari came tantalisingly close to winning the World Cup final before she went down to Olympic double gold medallist Bo Bae Ki to settle for a silver in the recurve women's individual event at Hibiya Park in Tokyo on Sunday.

September 22, 2012

Gangjee crashes out of Golf Classic in Texas
Rahil Gangjee had a nightmarish second round of six-over 78 and crashed out at the midway stage of the WNB Golf Classic on the Web.com Tour, formerly the Nationwide. Sharmila misses cut despite fine finish
Sharmila Nicollet's valiant effort in the closing stages went in vain as she missed the cut by one shot after the second round of the Tenerife Open de Espana Femenino at Golf Las Americas in Tenerife. Kapur rallies on back to stay in contention in Japan
Shiv Kapur staged a tremendous fight back on the back nine, where he hit an eagle, to card a sub-par round for the third day running and stay in contention for a good finish at the Asia-Pacific Panasonic Open, in Hyogo on Saturday. Federation Cup: Salgaocar defeats United Sikkim 3-0

Defending champions Salgaocar notched their second successive win, blanking United Sikkim 3-0 to brighten their semi-final chances in the 34th Federation Cup on Saturday.

September 21, 2012

'Had to go for new Davis Cup team as seniors were ageing'

Non-playing captain Shiv Prakash Misra on the new Davis Cup team, the ban and future of Indian tennis.

Sharmila opens with a steady round of 72 in Tenerife

Sharmila Nicollet turned in a strong finish with two birdies in her last three holes to register an even par 72 in the opening round of the Tenerife Open de Espana Femenino at Golf Las Americas in Tenerife, Spain.

Gangjee in danger of missing cut at WNB Golf Classic
India's Rahil Gangjee witnessed a rough start in the WNB Golf Classic on the Web.com Tour, formerly the Nationwide, as he opened with a three-over 75 that put him way back on the leaderboard. Mexico to bid to stage third World Cup finals in 2026
Mexico will bid to host the 2026 World Cup, the country's soccer chief Justino Compean said on Thursday. Tiger lands first blow in East Lake 'duel' with Rory

Tiger Woods delivered the best possible response to suggestions earlier this week that he is intimidated by Rory McIlroy as he outscored the World No. 1 by three shots in the Tour Championship first round on Thursday.

Europa League: Liverpool win eight-goal match

Liverpool twice squandered the lead, trailed 3-2 and then scored three times in the last 25 minutes to win 5-3 at Young Boys in an enthralling but blunder-prone Europa League tie on Thursday.

September 20, 2012

Indian challenge ends as Sindhu, Jayaram exit Japan Open
The Indian challenge ended at the Japan Super Series following the defeats of shuttlers P V Sindhu and Ajay Jayaram in the women's and men's singles pre-quarter-finals respectively, in Tokyo, on Thursday. Sindhu breaks into world top 20
Rising Indian shuttler P V Sindhu has broken into the world's top 20 in the latest badminton rankings following her giant-killing exploits at last week's China Masters. Jeev, Shiv open strongly at Asia-Pacific Open
Indian golfer Jeev Milkha Singh continued his strong comeback from injury with a fine four-under 67 to be tied 11th after the opening round of the Asia-Pacific Panasonic Open in Hyogo, Japan, on Thursday. Also shooting a fine opening round of 67 was Shiv Kapur.

September 19, 2012

Lifter Chandrika wins bronze at Youth Championships
Chandrika Tarafdar on Wednesday became the first Indian to win a medal in Youth World Weightlifting Championships after she bagged two bronze in the girls' 44kg category. Korean athlete accuses coach of abuse
An investigation has been launched after a South Korean athlete with cerebral palsy accused his coach of abusing him at the London Paralympic Games earlier this month. Saina signs up 40-crore deal with Rhiti Sports

India's badminton queen Saina Nehwal has signed up a 40-crore deal with Rhiti Sports Management company, making her the country's highest paid sportsperson outside cricket.

Jayaram, Sindhu reach second round in Japan Open
Ajay Jayaram and P V Sindhu advanced to the second round of the men's and women's singles competition respectively after notching up contrasting victories in the Japan Super Series in Tokyo in New Delhi.

September 18, 2012

Bayern's Robben still doubtful, Ribery fit

Bayern Munich winger Arjen Robben is doubtful for their Champions League Group F encounter against Valencia on Wednesday but team mate Franck Ribery is set to play.

Manchester City's Silva signs new five-year deal
World Cup and twice European Championship winner David Silva has signed a new five-year contract with Premier League champions Manchester City, the club said. Ba double earns Newcastle draw at Everton

Newcastle United striker Demba Ba struck in the last minute to salvage a 2-2 draw with Everton in a pulsating Premier League match at Goodison Park on Monday.

Phelps, Felix win top US Olympic athlete awards
Michael Phelps and Allyson Felix were named as the United States Olympic Committee's (USOC) best athletes for 2011-12 on Monday for their gold-medal performances at the London Olympics.

September 17, 2012

QPR's Johnson to miss most of season with knee injury
Queens Park Rangers striker Andy Johnson will miss the majority of the Premier League season after damaging a cruciate ligament in his knee against Chelsea, the club said on Monday. Bhullar wins third Asian Tour title at Taipei

Indian golfer Gaganjeet Bhullar ended a 32-month winless streak to clinch his third Asian Tour title at the weather-hit Yeangder Tournament Players Championship after carding a steady three-under 69 in the final round in Taipei on Monday.

Lajong FC signs on Nigerian Ebi Sukore
Strengthening the team ahead of the I-League, North Eastern football team Shillong Lajong FC has signed another Nigerian footballer Ebi Sukore, who last played for Mumbai FC, club officials said in Shillong on Monday.

September 16, 2012

Mourinho attacks Real players again after defeat

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho again criticised the attitude of a large part of his squad after the champions fell 1-0 at Sevilla, to slip eight points adrift of leaders Barcelona on Saturday.

Martinez survives knockdown, beats Chavez

Argentina's Sergio Martinez survived a torrid final round to defeat Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and claim the WBC middleweight title in Las Vegas on Saturday.

Milan booed off after shock home defeat by Atalanta

AC Milan were booed off the pitch after suffering a shock 1-0 home defeat by Atalanta in Serie A on Saturday following a second-half Luca Cigarini strike that stunned the San Siro.

Bayern edge past Mainz, Dortmund beat Leverkusen

Bayern Munich retained their two-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga with a nervous 3-1 victory against Mainz 05 on Saturday as champions Borussia Dortmund kept up the chase with a 3-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen.

September 15, 2012

Mampi upsets Anjali in 10m air rifle
Young shooting sensation Mampi Das pulled off a big upset as she beat experienced Anjali Bhagwat to win the gold medal in the 10m air rifle event of the ongoing SEED Gun for Glory Shooting Championship in Pune on Saturday. India raises bar, targets 25 medals in 2020 Olympics
After the country's best-ever haul of six medals at the just-concluded London Olympics, the Government has set the goal much higher and the target for the 2020 Games is 25 medals. Italian Open: Shiv Kapur shoots 69, tied 14th
Indian golfer Shiv Kapur played out yet a steady second round of three-under 69 that kept him in touch with the leaders at the BMW Italian Open in Torino. Fighter Sindhu bows out of China Masters
Rising Indian shuttler P V Sindhu's giant-killing spree came to a halt after she went down fighting to World No. 9 Jiang Yanjiao in the women's singles semifinals of the Li Ning China Masters Super Series badminton tournament in Changzhou on Saturday.

September 14, 2012

Sindhu shocks London Olympics gold medallist Xuerui

Rising Indian shuttler P V Sindhu continued her giant-killing run in the Li Ning China Masters Super Series, shocking London Olympics gold medallist Li Xuerui of China, to storm into the women's singles semi-finals on Friday.

Hatton to return to ring in November
Ricky Hatton will return to the boxing ring in November after the former World welterweight and light-welterweight champion confirmed he was coming out of retirement on Friday. Shiv Kapur 10th in Italian Open
Indian golfer Shiv Kapur struck four birdies in a row to register a five-under 67 and grab the joint 10th spot after the opening round of the BMW Italian Open in Torino. Bhullar second at Yeangder golf as rain stops play
Indian golfers Gaganjeet Bhullar and Anirban Lahiri, who were lying inside top-five after the first round, were unable to start play in the second round due to the inclement weather that halted the proceedings at the Yeangder Tournament Players Championship in Taipei on Friday. Ranchi franchise becomes third team in Hockey League
The joint venture of Patel-Uniexcel Group has taken up the Ranchi franchise in the much-hyped Hockey India League, making it the third of the six teams which will compete in the event starting in January next year. Football: India woman's team advance to SAFF C'ship final
Sasmita Mallick found the net four times as India mauled Afghanistan 11-0 to storm into the Women's South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship in Colombo on Friday. Pacquiao, Marque set for December 8 bout

Filipino southpaw Manny Pacquiao is expected to return to the ring on December 8 for a fourth fight against long-time rival Juan Manuel Marquez of Mexico, according to several media reports.

'Beacon of liberty' Ali honoured for civil rights work

Heavyweight boxing legend Muhammad Ali was honoured on Thursday for his humanitarian efforts and civil rights work at an awards ceremony in Philadelphia.

September 13, 2012

Golden double for Loganathan at National athletics
Suriya Loganathan achieved a golden double, winning the 5,000 metres, at the 52nd National Open Athletics Championships in Chennai on Thursday. The Tamil Nadu lass, who had earlier got the better of Asian Games gold medallist Preeja Sreedharan in the 10,000 metres, held off a strong challenge from Railways' O P Jaisha and LIC's Monika Athare to emerge triumphant. 'Good guy' Tyson wants to dance to musicals

Former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson, once notorious for his bad boy antics, has a new goal: he'd like to dance and act in musicals.

Sindhu shocks world No 14; Gurusaidutt beats Kashyap
India's rising woman shuttler P V Sindhu rallied to shock eighth seeded Porntip Buranaprasertsuk of Thailand, while RMV Gurusaidutt defeated fancied fellow-Indian Parupalli Kashyap to enter the men's singles quarter-finals in the Li Ning China Masters badminton tournament, in Changzhou, on Thursday.

September 12, 2012

Tendulkar calls up Paralympic silver medallist Girisha

London 2012 Paralympics Games silver-medallist Girisha Hosanagara Nagarajegowda said the batting maestro told him to perform even better in future and win as many medals as possible.

Kashyap, Jayaram in second round of China Masters
London Olympics quarter-finalist P Kashyap eked out a hard-fought victory over Chinese qualifier Huan Gao to enter the second round, on a reasonably good day for the Indian shuttlers, at the Li Ning China Masters badminton tournament in Changzhou, on Wednesday. The eighth-seeded Kashyap, a Commonwealth Games bronze-medallist, staved off a stiff challenge from Gao to prevail 21-13, 14-21, 21-19 in 78 minutes.

September 11, 2012

Praneeth loses in qualification round of China Masters
Indian shuttler Sai Praneeth failed to make it to the main draw of the Li Ning China Masters. He went down fighting to Huan Gao of China in the qualification round of the men's singles at Changzhou on Tuesday. Huan will take on London Olympics quarter-finalist and Commonwealth Games bronze-medallist P Kashyap of India on Wednesday. Secretary-General commends India's medal winner

Paralympic Games is a shining example of courage and determination and athletes who competed in the London 2012 edition Games are an inspiration to the world, Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma has said.

SAFF Championship: India toy with listless Bhutan
Having already booked their place in the semifinals, a relaxed Indian women's team simply toyed with an out of sorts Bhutan, thrashing them 11-0 in their last group engagement of the SAFF Championship on Colombo on Tuesday.

September 10, 2012

Kashyap leads Indian challenge at China Masters
London Olympics quarter-finalist and Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Parupalli Kashyap will spearhead a depleted Indian challenge at the Li Ning China Masters, starting in Changzhou on Tuesday. The 25-year-old Kashyap, currently ranked world No 19, is seeded eighth in the tournament and pitted against a yet-to-be-decided qualifier. Villa boost for Spain as favourites begin defence

Favourites Spain start the defence of their world title away to Georgia on Tuesday when coach Vicente del Bosque will have another chance to test the form of record marksman David Villa, recently returned from eight months out with a broken leg.

Contador bounces back to claim Vuelta

A month after completing a two-year ban for doping, Alberto Contador showed that he was still a force to be reckoned with as he won his second Vuelta a Espana title on Sunday.

September 08, 2012

Paralympics: O'Hanlon gives thanks for disability
Evan O'Hanlon cannot turn door handles or pick up coins with his left hand and struggles for stability in his left ankle, yet he can hurtle around the bend of an athletics track. Bhullar finishes second at Worldwide Selangor Masters
Gaganjeet Bhullar made a valiant charge on the final day, but eventually finished second behind Thailand's Thaworn Wiratchant who maintained his overnight lead to capture his 14th Asian tour title at the Worldwide Selangor Masters in Selangor, Malaysia on Saturday. Merritt sets hurdles world record, Bolt, Blake win

Olympic champion Aries Merritt of the United States broke the world record in the 110 metres hurdles while Jamaicans Usain Bolt and Yohan Blake won their sprints in the final Diamond League meet of the season on Friday.

September 07, 2012

Maken issues show cause notice to Paralympic Committee
Cracking the whip on the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) after receiving complaints from the participants at the London Paralympics, Sports Minister Ajay Maken issued a show cause notice to the sports body and sought a reply within 15 days. Button, Hamilton put Twitter gaffe behind them
Lewis Hamilton felt no need to seek out Jenson Button to apologise for his Belgian GP Twitter gaffe on Thursday and said he had learned from the experience, would not be repeating the error and had moved on. Indian Paralympics team felicitated by High Commissioner

The 33-member Indian team which participated in the ongoing Paralympic Games was felicitated by the country's High Commissioner to the UK -- Dr Jaimini Bhagwati -- at the India House in London.

Pistorius gracious after 100m defeat to Peacock

There was more disappointment at the Paralympics for South Africa's Oscar Pistorius after he was left trailing in the wake of Britain's Jonnie Peacock in the men's 100m final on Thursday.

Hingis nominated for Hall of Fame

Swiss former World No. 1 Martina Hingis, a winner of five Grand Slam singles titles, has been nominated for induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

'Competing against Blake every time would be boring'

Olympic 100m and 200m champion Usain Bolt does not mind sharing the limelight with his Jamaican rival Yohan Blake but thinks competing against him all the time would be boring.

Coaches support 'improving' Europa League
Europe's top club coaches gave their support on Thursday to the much-maligned Europa League.

September 06, 2012

NRAI plans to appoint three Indian chief coaches
The NRAI has proposed to appoint specialised chief coaches for pistol, rifle and shotgun disciplines instead of one national coach to help the shooters achieve better results. Mary urges fellow athletes to strive for medal at Rio

M C Mary Mom, who won a bronze medal at the London Olympics, has urged those sportspersons, who could not make a finish at the 2012 Games, to keep striving hard to win a medal at the Rio Games.

Lack of sponsor upsets Kashyap

He might be the first Indian male shuttle to reach the quarter-finals of the Olympic Games, but Parupalli Kashyap is still struggling to get a sponsor after his earlier contract ended about a year back.

Disgraced Korean shuttlers have domestic bans lifted
Four South Korean badminton players sent home in disgrace from the London Olympics for deliberately throwing matches have had their six-month domestic bans lifted by the Korean Olympic Committee. 'Arsenal can't compete with big clubs in transfer window'
Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood has admitted they can't compete with big spending clubs like Manchester City and Chelsea in the transfer market.

September 05, 2012

Suspension ends but Bin Hammam investigation goes on
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) are continuing their investigation into sidelined president Mohamed Bin Hammam despite his provisional suspension ending on Tuesday. Brazil below Greece, Croatia and England in FIFA rankings
Brazil stayed outside the top ten of FIFA's highly questioned ranking system on Wednesday, with England, Denmark and Greece all ahead of the five-times world champions. England striker Carroll ruled out for up to six weeks

West Ham's on-loan striker Andy Carroll has been ruled out for up to six weeks with a hamstring injury, delivering a setback to the Premier League new boys as well as the England team.

Messi aims to extend love affair with Argentina fans

Lionel Messi's Argentina put the love of their fans to a new test in a World Cup qualifier against Paraguay on Friday after the thrill of their captain's nine goals in five games.

Former United striker Owen joins Stoke City
Former Manchester United striker Michal Owen has joined Stoke City on a one-year contract, the Premier League club said on Tuesday. Fans criticise Berbatov for snubbing national team

Fulham striker Dimitar Berbatov has been heavily criticised in his homeland after he snubbed the Bulgarian national team for a second time in 28 months.

September 04, 2012

Pistorius to be let off for controversial outburst

Oscar Pistorius will face no disciplinary action over his outburst following defeat in the men's 200 metres final, Paralympic organisers said on Tuesday.

Girisha bags first Paralympic medal for India

Girisha Hosanagara Nagarajegowda gave India its first medal at the Paralympic Games after bagging a silver in the Men's High Jump F42 event in London.

McIlroy wins Deutsche Bank title by one shot

World No. 1 Rory McIlroy clinched his fifth PGA Tour title, and second in three starts, with a one-shot victory over South Africa's Louis Oosthuizen at the Deutsche Bank Championship on Monday.

September 03, 2012

Lance Armstrong: Living strong

Lance Armstrong's brand seems to be growing and expanding despite all the controversy surrounding the American cyclist, writes Desh Gaurav Chopra Sekhri.

September 02, 2012

India are Nehru cup champions
India won the Nehru Cup final at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, in New Delhi on Sunday. Ramsay wins European Masters to claim second tour title
Richie Ramsay of Scotland eased to a four-shot victory in the European Masters to claim his second tour title on Sunday. Paralympic athlete alleges lack of escorts

Controversy broke out in the Indian Paralympic team in London with an athlete alleging lack of escorts to look after them even as the officials sought to make light of it.

Friedel still the number one for Villas-Boas

Brad Friedel will remain Tottenham Hotspur's first-choice goalkeeper despite the arrival of French international Hugo Lloris on transfer deadline day, manager Andre Villas-Boas said on Saturday.

I am injury-free and ready for action, Essien says
New Real Madrid signing Michael Essien is confident he has put a series of serious injuries behind him and is ready to fight for a place in the La Liga side after completing a loan move from Chelsea on Friday. City striker Balotelli needs minor eye surgery

Manchester City and Italy striker Mario Balotelli needs surgery on a minor eye condition, first team coach David Platt said.

Injured Carroll out of England World Cup squad

Striker Andy Carroll withdrew from England's squad for this month's World Cup qualifiers against Moldova and Ukraine after injuring his hamstring on his West Ham United debut on Saturday.

Geale steals Sturm's thunder to add WBA title
Australia's Daniel Geale added Felix Sturm's WBA middleweight Super title to his IBF crown with a shock split decision win in the German's backyard on Saturday. Barca's Vilanova dispels doubts over Fabregas form

Cesc Fabregas's second season back at Barcelona will be an improvement on his first, coach Tito Vilanova predicted on Saturday following the former Arsenal captain's indifferent start to the 2012-13 campaign.

Pistorius smashes 200m world record in London opener

South Africa's Oscar Pistorius began his London Paralympic campaign in scintillating fashion as he smashed the 200 metres T44 world record in his heat on Saturday.

August 31, 2012

Cyclist to release book on Armstrong's trysts with dope

Less than two weeks after Lance Armstrong was handed a lifetime ban by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), fellow American cyclist Tyler Hamilton will describe their alleged drug cheating together in a book.

August 30, 2012

Maken proposes marks to students for fitness
Unveiling the exposure draft on National Physical Fitness Programme (NPFP), which is at a discussion stage, Sports Minister Ajay Maken said in order to ensure fitness among all school children, a system needs to be put in place that would assess and ascertain a child's physical fitness from class V onwards. Kashyap says Saina inspires him on court

Parupalli Kashyap, who became the first Indian shuttler to reach the quarter-finals of the Olympics Games, has said he draws inspiration from London Games bronze medallist Saina Nehwal. Kashyap, who received the Arjuna Award in a glittering ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi on Wednesday, also said he is aiming to break into the top-15 of world badminton ranking by the end of this year.

August 29, 2012

Barca to lodge 2nd appeal against Vilanova dismissal

Barcelona will lodge a second appeal against the dismissal of coach Tito Vilanova in Sunday's 2-1 win at Osasuna after the Spanish soccer federation (RFEF) rejected an initial effort and suspended the coach for two games on Wednesday.

Preview: Super Cup comes full circle with last match

Chelsea's relationship with the European Super Cup comes full circle on Friday when the winners of the first final at the picturesque Stade Louis II face Atletico Madrid in the last one to be staged there.

Indo-Pak hockey Tests to start from 2013 onwards
The Hockey India is all set to the start the once popular Indo-Pak hockey test series from next year. Wrestler Sushil rues missing gold at London Games

Disappointed at not winning gold for India at the recently concluded London Olympics, wrestler Sushil Kumar said if he had attacked the Japanese opponent first then he could have easily defeated him in the final.

Hockey India curbs coach Nobbs's powers
The Hockey India on Wednesday decided to curtail the power of the chief national coach Michael Nobbs by appointing a high performance manager to whom the Australian will be reporting from the coming season.

August 27, 2012

Speed king Usian Bolt to become action hero?

Usain Bolt, who defended three titles at the 2012 Olympics, is now being lined up to conquer Hollywood.

Sushil Kumar, Yogeshwar Dutt honoured
Olympic heroes, wrestlers Sushil Kumar and Yogeshwar Dutt were honoured with cash prizes at a function in Chennai for their medal winning feats at the London Games. US Open: Will FedEx be dispatched?

The US Open begins on Monday. With Nadal out, the big battle this time is between Federer, Djokovic and Murray. A Seshan rates the chances of the tennis giants.

August 26, 2012

Double Olympic champion Farah wins again in Birmingham

With a wicker replica of Farah in his celebratory 'Mobot' pose overlooking the track, the London Games 10,000 and 5,000 metres champion kicked and pulled away from the field on the home straight, sending the stadium wild, to win in eight minutes 27.24 seconds.

Snooker: Advani enters quarter-finals
Pankaj Advani continued his winning streak on the Professional Snooker Circuit, beating England's Mark King 4-3 in the fourth round of qualifiers for the European Tour-2 Paul Hunter Classic.

August 25, 2012

Jeev to miss European Masters with injury

Indian golfer Jeev Milkha Singh has pulled out of the Omega European Masters and the KLM Open, the following week, on account of a bruise on the trigger finger of his right hand.

Advani beats former world No 1 Higgins

India's ace cueist Pankaj Advani stamped his authority on the Professional Snooker Circuit, defeating former world number one John Higgins of Scotland 4-1 on day two of the European Tour-2 Paul Hunter Classic.

Armstrong teammate Landis admits defrauding supporters

Former professional cyclist Floyd Landis, who implicated teammate Lance Armstrong in a doping scheme, agreed to a plea deal in federal court in San Diego on Friday, admitting he defrauded supporters out of nearly $500,000 by claiming that he himself had not doped, prosecutors said.

Former team boss laments Armstrong's no-fight decision

Lance Armstrong's decision not to fight doping charges was disappointing for the rider and for cycling in general, according to his former team manager John Bruyneel, who also faces charges brought by the United States Anti-doping Agency (USADA).

August 24, 2012

Armstrong stripped of Tour de France titles

The build-up to the Lance Armstrong drama has possibly seen its last as the United States anti-doping agency (USADA) has stripped Armstrong of his seven Tour de France titles and issued a lifetime ban from cycling, the BBC reported on Friday.

Yashvir, Fernandez among six coaches for Dronacharya
Eight leading coaches of the country, including London Olympic Games bronze medallist wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt's mentor Yashvir Singh, were officially named for the prestigious Dronacharya award. India @ the London Games: Chat with Viren Rasquinha

Join in discuss with OGQ CEO Viren Rasquinha what went right, and wrong, for India at the just-concluded Games.

Bolt wins 200, Blake sets personal best

Olympic champion Usain Bolt ran 19.58 seconds for victory in the 200 metres at the Lausanne Diamond League meeting on Thursday while Yohan Blake equalled the third fastest time ever to win the 100 in 9.69.

Lance Armstrong gives up fight against USADA charges

Lance Armstrong said on Thursday he would no longer fight doping accusations by the U.S. Anti-Doping agency, a move that appears to put his seven Tour de France titles at risk.

August 23, 2012

Sharath leads PSPB in men's final
Achanta Sharatha Kamal scored a crushing straight game win over CRSB's Eric Fernandez to help PSPB enter the men's final of the All India Inter Institutional Table Tennis Championships, in Kolkata on Thursday. Olympic golden boy Uchimura spooked by 'stalker'

Japan's Olympic gymnastics champion Kohei Uchimura has experienced the darker side of celebrity after complaining of a schoolgirl "stalker", local media reported on Thursday.

Hooda takes a jibe at Vijender at a function

It was a felicitation function meant to honour him but Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda created quite a flutter by taking a jibe at star boxer Vijender Singh's "under-performance" at last month's Olympics in London.

We are going to improve with every game: Koevermans

India's football coach Wim Koevermans was proud of his team's overall performance in the Nehru Cup opener against Syria but said the water-logged turf at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium had a bearing on the match in New Delhi.

Aguero could be back for Manchester City next month

Striker Sergio Aguero could be back for Premier League champions Manchester City in mid September after suffering a knee injury on the opening day of the season against Southampton on Sunday.

Vilanova calm ahead of first 'El Clasico' storm

Barcelona's new coach Tito Vilanova has one of the toughest acts to follow in replacing Pep Guardiola although he is not showing any sign of nerves ahead of his first showdown with Real Madrid.

August 22, 2012

AIFF celebrates Ptalinum Jubilee, honours greats
The AIFF has honoured living members of the 1962 Asian Games gold medal winning squad during its Platinum Jubilee function in New Delhi, which also saw the unveiling of technical director Rob Baan's master plan. Arsenal player arrested for dangerous driving

Arsenal defender Andre Santos was arrested after it was claimed the Brazilian had driven his car at speeds of up to 130mph (209kph) in a bid to escape from police, British media reported on Tuesday.

Olympic bronze is great motivation for me: Saina

Basking in the glory of a bronze medal at the London Olympics, ace shuttler Saina Nehwal says it was very tough for her to win the medal in a sport dominated by the Chinese.

Weightlifting coach Harnam angry at Dronacharya snub
Weightlifting coach Harnam Singh is furious that he has been ignored for this year's Dronacharya Award despite his wards winning gold medals in the Commonwealth Games and said that he was more deserving than those selected for the coveted honour. Gladbach, Basel stunned in Champions League playoffs
Borussia Moenchengladbach's hopes of qualifying for the Champions League for the first time were hit by a 3-1 home defeat by Dynamo Kiev in the first leg of their playoff tie. Kitajima ponders future after London Olympics flop

Japanese swimmer Kosuke Kitajima is in no rush to make a decision on his future after the four-times Olympic champion failed to deliver at the London Games, local media reported on Wednesday.

August 21, 2012

We must play against top teams regularly: Sandeep

Ace drag-flicker Sandeep Singh said that the Indian hockey team should play against top teams in the world regularly and prepare longer with the same set of players to avoid a London Olympics-like debacle in future.

Yashvir, Fernandez among six coaches named for Dronacharya
Six top coaches of the country, including London Olympic Games bronze medallist wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt's mentor Yashvir Singh, were recommended for the prestigious Dronacharya Award. You need to adjust according to the situation: Koevermans
It's a new beginning for Indian football under National Coach Wim Koevermans. As he takes his wards into the Nehru Cup, Koevermans spoke about the technical ability of his boys, the practice sessions, the participating teams and much more. We need to understand what the coach wants: Chhetri
On the eve of India's opener against Syria in the Nehru Cup, Indian National Team coach Wim Koevermans and captain Sunil Chhetri beamed with confidence and shrugged of any kind of pressure that tends to build on defending champions.

August 20, 2012

Garcia snaps PGA Tour drought, qualifies for Ryder Cup
Sergio Garcia snapped a four-year PGA Tour title drought with victory at the rain-delayed Wyndham Championship in North Carolina on Monday that secured the Spaniard a spot on the European Ryder Cup team. Barcelona complete signing of Song from Arsenal
Cameroon midfielder Alex Song has completed his move from Premier League side Arsenal to Barcelona after signing a deal worth 19 million euros, both clubs said on Monday. Chhetri to lead India in Nehru Cup football tournament
Star striker Sunil Chhetri was named captain of the Indian team for the Nehru Cup international football tournament starting at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium from Wednesday. Haryana police to honour London Olympians from state
Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda will honour Olympics bronze medal winner Yogeshwar Dutt and all other athletes who participated in London Games in an awards function to be organised by Haryana Police in Chandigarh on August 23. Sardar, Sandeep to play in Euro Hockey League

India's star hockey player Sardar Singh and drag-flicker Sandeep Singh are set to play in the prestigious Euro Hockey League (EHL) for Dutch side Laren this year, subject to permission from Hockey India and their employer Haryana Police.

My award can raise the profile of cue sport: Aditya

India's No. 1 snooker player Aditya Mehta, who has been chosen for the prestigious Arjuna award, has said that this recognition would help raise the profile of his sport in the country.

Man City's Aguero calms fears over knee injury

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has calmed fears over the extent of the knee injury he sustained in the champions' opening 3-2 Premier League win at home to Southampton on Sunday.

Pedrosa wins Indianapolis MotoGP
Dani Pedrosa claimed his second victory of the season as the Spaniard won the Indianapolis MotoGP in emphatic fashion on Sunday. I did not get any invite from ministry: Shastri
Former India cricket captain Rav Shastri rejected criticism for not attending the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awards committee meeting, saying that he was never informed by the Sports Ministry about it.

August 19, 2012

Sachin Tendulkar gifts BMW car to shuttler Saina
Saina Nehwal received a brand new BMW car for winning a bronze medal at the London Olympics from none other than batting legend Sachin Tendulkar, who said that the world is yet to see the best of the star shuttler. Shooting coach Thomas resigns after 19 years at helm

Long-serving national shooting coach Sunny Thomas has offered his resignation to the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) after 19 years at the helm during which India won four Olympic medals in the sport.

Khel Ratna for Vijay, Yogeshwar; 25 to get Arjuna awards

Olympic medallists Vijay Kumar and Yogeshwar Dutt will be jointly conferred the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award -- the country's highest sporting honour -- while an unprecedented 25 sportspersons will be bestowed upon the Arjuna awards this year.

August 18, 2012

Vijay, Yogeshwar to get Khel Ratna
Olympic heroes, shooter Vijay Kumar and wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt were jointly recommended for the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award, the country's highest sporting honour.

August 17, 2012

Nehru Stadium to host first two I-League round ties
The Sports Authority of Goa (SAG) has agreed to keep the renovation of the Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on hold until after the first two rounds of the I League 2012-13 are played in October. Cadet wrestlers denied chance of participation in Worlds
Days after India won two medals in wrestling at the London Olympics, the country's next batch of promising grapplers were robbed of an opportunity to compete in the World Cadet Championship to be held in Baku, Ajerbaijan as they were denied visa. Good start for Gangjee, placed 10th
Rahil Ganglee shot a flawless three-under 68 and was placed 10th at the end of the first round of the Midwest Classic on Webcom tour, formerly called Nationwide. IOA Committee to decide who should run hockey in India
Under the directive of the International Hockey Federation, the Indian Olympic Association has set up a three-member committee to decide on who should run the game in the country out of the two warring bodies -- Hockey India and Indian Hockey Federation. Call for sports medicine centre for better results
Hailing the performance of Indian sportspersons at the recently-conduclued London Olympics, former Olympians called for the setting up of a Sports Medicine Centre (SMC) as well as appointment of mental trainers to achieve excellence in the next Games. Spurs priced out of Moutinho deal, says Villas-Boas
Tottenham Hotspur have dropped their interest in signing Porto's Joao Moutinho because the Portugal midfielder is too expensive, the Premier League club's new manager Andre Villas-Boas said. Van Persie completes move to Manchester United
Dutch international striker Robin Van Persie completed his move from Arsenal to Manchester United on Friday after signing a four-year deal. Dipika creates history, enters Aus Squash Open semis

Dipika Pallikal became the first Indian to enter the semifinals of a Gold Series event when she recorded a straight sets win over Amanda Sobhy in the Australian Squash Open in Canberra.

August 16, 2012

Jamaica to use Usain Bolt to woo tourists

Jamaica expects the electrifying Olympic wins of the world's fastest sprinter Usain Bolt will enhance its image and help in wooing more foreign tourists to the picturesque Caribbean country.

Olazabal appoints three Ryder Cup vice-captains
European Ryder Cup captain Jose Maria Olazabal has named experienced players Thomas Bjorn, Darren Clarke and Paul McGinley as three of his four vice-captains for next month's title defence against the United States. Titans duel for La Liga and 'world hegemony'

Records promise to tumble again in the 2012-13 La Liga season as world powerhouses Real Madrid and Barcelona resume their duel for supremacy, threatening to cast Spain's other 18 clubs even further adrift.

Another felicitation for Mary, men boxers share dais

Medals eluded them but not the spotlight as the Indian men's boxing team shared the dais with London Olympics bronze-winning woman pugilist M C Mary Kom at a felicitation function organised by sponsors Monnet Group in New Delhi on Thursday.

Wisconsin shooting: Atwal to raise awareness
Saddened by the shooting inside a Gurudwara in the United States a couple of weeks ago, Indian golfer Arjun Atwal is planning to raise awareness about Sikhs by distributing saffron ribbons during next week's Wyndham Championships -- a tournament he won two years ago.

August 15, 2012

'I got a tough draw, otherwise gold was certain'

Olympics bronze medal-winning Indian Wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt feels if not for a tough draw he could have returned home with a gold medal from the just-concluded London Games.

Bolt refuses to run in UK until tax laws changed

Sprint legend Usain Bolt has stated that he will not be returning to race in the UK until the country changes its tax laws.

August 14, 2012

Life time free air tickets to medal winners
Budget airlines SpiceJet announced that it would provide free air tickets for life to all Indian medal winners at the just-concluded London Olympics. Former world heavyweight champion Dokes dies

Former world heavyweight champion Michael Dokes, 54, has died after losing a battle with liver cancer, the World Boxing Association said on its website (www.wbanews.com).

Manchester United is largest sports IPO
Manchester United Ltd, which raised $233.2 million on Thursday night, is the largest initial public offering on record for a sports team or club, according to Thomson Reuters data. Injured Liu Xiang wants to compete again

Former Olympic champion Liu Xiang wants to return to competition after crashing out of the 110 metres hurdles heats at the London Games last week with an Achilles tendon injury, Chinese state news agency Xinhua reported on Tuesday.

London Olympics most watched in US TV history
NBC's TV coverage of the London Olympics was the most-watched television event in US history, attracting some 219.4 million viewers, the network said on Monday.

August 13, 2012

Games security stayed in shadows, kept focus on sport

From ordinary police on the beat to the shadows of Britain's security establishment, the sighs of relief are almost audible.

Manchester City complete Rodwell signing
Manchester City have completed the signing of midfielder Jack Rodwell from Everton on a five-year contract, the Premier League champions said on Sunday. McIlroy cruises to victory at PGA championship

Rory McIlroy underlined his superstar credentials as he repelled an early onslaught by Britain's Ian Poulter before cruising to his second major title by a record eight shots at the PGA Championship on Sunday.

Shot putter Ostapchuk stripped of gold medal for doping
Olympic women's shot put champion Nadzeya Ostapchuk has been stripped of the gold medal she won at the London Games a week ago after testing positive for a banned anabolic steroid. Public, private sectors must encourage future Olympians

T Thomas writes that the governments -- central and states -- should, along with the Private sector, work towards supporting and grooming young sporting talent in an effort to increase medals tally at the 2016 Games in Rio.

August 12, 2012

Tendulkar congratulates Sushil after silver medal-win
India's legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar made a phone call to wrestler Sushil Kumar immediately after he won the silver medal at the London Olympics. 'Congratulations on winning the silver medal. You have made the country proud,' Tendulkar told him over the phone. I am sure Sushil will win gold in the next Olympics: Satpal

Famous Indian wrestler Satpal Singh says Sushil Kumar's silver medal win at the London Olympics is the best day in his life.

'Proud of my husband going a step higher'

Sushil Kumar's wife Savi is delighted that he continued his medal-winning run at the Games and etched his name in history as the greatest Indian Olympian.

Uganda's Kiprotich wins men's marathon

Stephen Kiprotich held off the Kenyan duo of Abel Kirui and Wilson Kipsang to win the men's marathon on Sunday.

Sushil Kumar settles for silver

Star wrestler Sushil Kumar created history on Sunday, scripting his name as India's best-ever individual Olympian by winning a silver medal at the London Olympics. The Indian grappler put up a superb show to reach the final, but was outclassed by Japan's Tatsuhiro Yonemitsu 3-1 in the gold medal bout of the 66kg class.

Ram Singh Yadav finishes 78th in marathon
Ram Singh Yadav, India's lone entrant in men's marathon, failed to replicate the feat through which he qualified for the Olympic Games on the winding streets of London as he finished a distant 78th from 105 starters on Sunday. Cameron appoints Coe as Games legacy ambassador
London 2012 chairman Seb Coe will serve as Prime Minister David Cameron's Olympic legacy ambassador after the Games finish on Sunday, the British government said. Sahaj Grover becomes Grandmaster
Former under-10 world champion Sahaj Grover completed the formalities to become a Grandmaster defeating Jorge Cori of Peru in the ninth round of the World Junior Chess Championship in Athens, Greece. Our hockey is dead, says Claudius

A veteran of four consecutive Olympics, legendary Leslie Claudius, bemoaned the disastrous display of the Indian hockey team in the London Olympics where it touched its nadir and finished last, and said the national game is "dead".

Sushil scripts history, storms into final

India's star grappler Sushil Kumar stormed into the final of men's 66kg freestyle category in the London Olympics, defeating Akzhurek Tanatarov of Kazakhstan on Sunday.

'Dream come true to win an Olympic medal'

Yogeshwar Dutt provided a late boost to India's medal collection at the 30th Olympic Games by claiming a memorable bronze in the men's freestyle 60 kg category, thus becoming the second Indian to achieve the feat in the country's Olympics history.

August 11, 2012

Australia beat Britain to win men's hockey bronze
Australia's beat Britain 3-1 to win the men's hockey bronze on Saturday, their sixth consecutive Olympic medal, having dominated the second half against the hosts. South Korea beats Japan 2-0 to get Olympic bronze

South Korea's football players won Olympic bronze medals Friday, but many admitted they were also celebrating an even greater prize: the chance to skip military service.

IOC investigates South Korean flag incident
The IOC has told South Korean officials to bar a football player from collecting his bronze medal after he displayed a flag with a political message at the third-place match against Japan. Rana finishes 36th in 50km race
India's Basanta Bahadur Rana finished 36th in the men's 50 km race walk of the Olympic Games with a national record timing of 3 hrs 56 minutes and 48 seconds. Italian player goes on hunger strike in fix protest
Soccer player Emanuele Pesoli has chained himself to the gates of the Italian football federation headquarters in Rome and gone on hunger strike in protest at being banned for three years in a match-fixing scandal.

August 10, 2012

Grapplers Amit, Narsingh shown the exit

India's male freestyle wrestlers started their Olympics campaign on a disappointing note, as both young Amit Kumar and Narsingh Pancham Yadav crashed out of their respective categories in contrasting fashion, at the ExCel centre in London, on Friday.

IOC formally strips Tyler Hamilton of Athens gold

Just days before the eight-year deadline expires, the IOC formally stripped American cyclist Tyler Hamilton of his 2004 gold for doping Friday and awarded the medal to a Russian rider who now becomes a three-time Olympic champion.

Indian tennis stars advance in Montreal
Sania Mirza and her American partner Bethanie Mattek-Sands registered a straight-set victory over Julia Goerges of Germany and Czech Republic's Kveta Peschke 7-6(1) 6-3 to enter the second round of the Rogers Cup in Montreal. Hockey team aim to avert bottom finish

Their reputation in tatters, Indian hockey team would look to salvage at least one victory from their disastrous Olympic Games campaign that has pushed them into a playoff to avert the bottom place finish in the 12-team competition.

Manipur to award Rs. 50 lakh to Mary Kom

Manipur government would award Rs 50 lakh to boxer Mary Kom who won a bronze medal in the London Olympics.

Veteran Olympians reunite after 64 years!

Olympians from China and Britain have been reunited in London -- 64 years after they competed against each other at basketball in the 1948 Olympic Games.

Luka's season-best not enough to make 800m final
India's middle-distance runner Tintu Luka produced her season's best timing of 1:59.69secs in the women's 800m semi-finals but it was hardly enough to give her berth in the final of the event at the London Olympics on Friday. India's schedule at the Games - August 10
Two Indian athletes will be in action at the 2012 Olympics on Friday. Check out their schedule. I'm not unhappy with the performance, says wrestler Geeta

India's lone woman wrestler Geeta Phogat's campaign in the Olympic Games came to an end when she was trounced by the formidable Tetyana Lazareva of Ukraine in the women's freestyle 55 kg repechage round at the ExCel stadium in London.

August 09, 2012

Saina regains fourth place in world ranking

Ace shuttler Saina Nehwal, who earned India its first badminton medal at the Olympics winning a bronze at London Games, on Thursday regained her fourth position in women's world rankings released.

Britain's Adams wins women's boxing flyweight gold
Flyweight Nicola Adams of Britain has won the first Olympic gold medal in women's boxing, stunning world champion Ren Cancan of China in a 16-7 victory Thursday. Olympians reunite in London after 64 years

Olympians from China and Britain have been reunited in London -- 64 years after they competed against each other at basketball in the 1948 Olympic Games.

IOC to strip Hamilton of Athens gold: source

The IOC is set to formally strip American cyclist Tyler Hamilton of his gold from the 2004 Athens Games and reassign the medals after his admission of doping, according to an Olympic official familiar with the case.

Jamaica crash out in 4x400m relay
Jamaica's bid for the men's 4x400 metre relay gold was cut short by injury on Thursday when Jermaine Gonzales pulled up in qualifying, while South Africa went through on appeal after their race ended in a collision with Kenya. Grappler Geeta makes exit after losing repechage round

Geeta Phogat bowed out of the London Olympics after being blanked 3-0 by Tetyana Lazareva of Ukraine in the repechage round two bout, in the 55kg freestyle category, at the ExCel Arena on Thursday.

Sushil determined to give his best

The spotlight is on wrestler Sushil Kumar to fetch India a medal in the London Olympics as he now remains the main hope for the country, and the 2008 Beijing Games hero says he is determined to give his best.

Pistorius back in Olympics after relay appeal

Nothing has ever come easy for Oscar Pistorius. And certainly not the first Olympic final for the double amputee runner.

Sandhu to take decision on retirement later
India's boxing coach Gurbux Singh Sandhu is contemplating retirement but will consult the Federation officials before taking a final decision. I want to be part of hockey administration: Dhanraj
Putting the blame squarely on the long-standing power struggle between Hockey India and Indian Hockey Federation for the steep decline of the national game, former captain Dhanraj Pillay expressed his desire to join the administration of the sport. India's lone woman high jumper crashes out
India's Sahana Kumari got knocked out of the women's high jump at the Olympic Games after clearing 1.80m and finishing at joint 15th in the Group B of the qualifying competition on Thursday. Manipuris shower big praise on 'courageous' Mary

She might have had to settle for a bronze medal after losing in the Olympics semi-finals but woman boxer M C Mary Kom (51kg) has won accolades from her fellow Manipuris for her grit and determination.

New Zealand Olympic venue evacuated following BBQ fire
A gas barbecue caught fire and exploded on Wednesday night at New Zealand's Olympic hospitality centre, forcing the evacuation of some 300 people. India's schedule at the Games - August 9
Indian athletes will be in action in various disciplines at the 2012 Olympics on Monday. Check out their schedule. Devendro goes down fighting to Ireland's Barnes

L Devendro Singh put up a gallant fight against Ireland's Paddy Barnes but lost the light-flyweight (49 kg) quarter-final bout 18-23, at the London Olympics, on Wednesday night. With Devendro's defeat, India's campaign in the boxing competition at the Games ended.

August 08, 2012

Spain beat France in ill-tempered basketball clash
Spain broke open a fierce defensive battle in the final minute to beat France 66-59 and reach the semi-finals of the Olympic men's basketball tournament in a bad-tempered contest that threatened to turn into a brawl. China sweep all four Olympic table tennis golds

completed a sweep of all four golds in table tennis at the London Olympics with a 3-0 victory over South Korea in the men's team final on Wednesday.

Eaton leads decathlon after three events

Ashton Eaton is more concerned with getting a medal than breaking his world mark. The American is ahead of the pack after the opening three events of the Olympic decathlon Wednesday, amassing an 105-point lead over World champion Trey Hardee.

Boxer Mary Kom loses in semi-finals, bags bronze
Britain's Nicola Adams won the semifinals bout of the women's flyweight boxing competition on Wednesday. Records shatter, champions fall in weightlifting

The Olympic weightlifting competition ended with the crowning of a new super heavyweight champion and a frightening fall for the old one. Iran's Behdad Salimikordasiabi won the last of 15 gold medals awarded in record-smashing barbell battles in London to remain unbeaten since 2009 in the sport's heaviest weight class.

Wrestlers to provide late sparks to India's campaign
Indian grapplers will join the Olympic action from tomorrow hoping to provide the late sparks to the contingent's campaign which has so far not really lived upto expectation with the flop show of many of the serious medal contenders. Tintu Luka qualifies for 800m semifinals

India's Tintu Luka qualified for the women's 800m semifinals in the Olympic Games after finishing third in one of the heats on Wednesday.

SAI to offer officer's grade jobs to all Olympians
The Sports Ministry has offered all Olympians of the country officer's grade jobs in the Sports Authority of India a couple of days after champion marksman, Subedar Vijay Kumar, threatened to quit the Army for being denied promotion. 'Sport should be made a part of school curriculum'

London Olympic bronze medallist Gagan Narang on Wednesday said that sports should be made a part of school curriculum and asked others states to take a leaf out of Maharashtra and Haryana's books as far as promoting sport was concerned.

London medallists Kumar, Narang to cash awards from NRAI

The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has announced cash awards of Rs 20 lakh to London Olympics silver medallist Vijay Kumar and Rs 15 lakh to bronze winner Gagan Narang for bringing laurels to the country in the mega event.

India's schedule at the Games - August 8
Indian athletes will be in action in various disciplines at the 2012 Olympics on Monday. Check out their schedule. Vikas Gowda finishes eighth in discus throw
India's Vikas Gowda finished eighth in the men's discus throw at the London Olympics after a below-par effort on Tuesday night. The United States-based athlete hurled the 2kg disc to a distance of 64.79m in his first attempt, well below his personal best of 66.28m which he recorded in the run-up to the Games. Mexico beats Japan to reach Olympic football final

Oribe Peralta scored with a swerving long-range strike and then set up another goal with a backheel to help Mexico to a 3-1 victory over Japan on Tuesday and secure a spot in the final of the men's Olympic football competition.

China beat Japan for women's team TT gold
China moved one step away from a second successive clean sweep of Olympic table tennis golds when their women marched to a 3-0 victory over a young Japanese team at the London Games on Tuesday. Hoy sets British record with 6th Olympic gold

Chris Hoy set a British record with his sixth Olympic gold medal Tuesday, defending his keirin title to finish off a dominating track cycling program for the home nation.

Italian Olympian Schwazer admits to using EPO
Italian race walker Alex Schwazer says he obtained the performance-enhancing drug EPO on his own and used it because he felt pressure to win a second straight 50-kilometer walk gold medal at the Olympics. Steiner hit by barbell in failed lift

Defending Olympic weightlifting champion Matthias Steiner of Germany was hit in the neck by the barbell Tuesday in the men's super heavyweight competition.

August 07, 2012

We haven't appealed to CAS: Indian contingent
The Indian contingent said it had not lodged a formal protest with the Court of Arbitration for Sports over boxer Vikas Krishan's ouster from the Olympics 69kg bout though it had an earlier stated that it had a sent an appeal letter to the world sports' top tribunal. Indian archers need psychologist: Talukdar
International archer Jayanta Talukdar on Tuesday rued the dismal performance of the country's archery team in the ongoing London Olympics and said it urgently needed a psychologist and a physio-therapist to enhance its confidence level and mental science. Bolt does it easy in 200m heat

Usain Bolt began his bid to complete an unprecedented Olympic sprint double-double when the Jamaican breezed through his opening 200 metres heat with the minimum of fuss on Tuesday.

Triple jumper Renjith exits after fouling all attempts

Renjith Maheshwary crashed out of the men's triple jump competition at the London Olympics after fouling all three attempts in the qualification round on Tuesday.

Seven Cameroon athletes go missing
Seven Cameroon athletes have disappeared while in Britain for the London Olympics, the Ministry of Sports and Physical Education said on Monday evening. Nehru Cup: India aims high, Chhetri among probables
Star striker Sunil Chhetri has been named aomng the Indian probables for the forthcoming Nehru Cup which will kick off at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium from August 22 in New Delhi. Basketball: Durant leads fired-up US over Argentina

The US men's basketball team pulled away in the second half of a bad-tempered game against Argentina and claimed a 126-97 victory on Monday to claim a top seeding in the Olympic tournament's quarter-finals.

Fans give super Saina grand reception on return

Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal returned to a rousing reception on Tuesday after winning a historic bronze medal at the Olympic Games in London.

Grenada declares holiday for 1st Olympic medal

The island of Grenada has erupted in celebration over the small Caribbean nation's first-ever Olympic medal.

11 slain Israelis remembered at Munich memorial

11 slain Israelis remembered at Munich memorial, 'Shame on you IOC, because you have forgotten 11 members of the Olympic family,' she said in a voice laden with passion.

'Our shooters are capable of beating the world's best'

In an exclusive interview with Harish Kotian in London, Thomas discusses what Indian shooters' success means to him and why he is quitting despite his wards consistently winning medals at the international stage.

Beijing bronze medallist Vijender bites the dust

India's star pugilist Vijender Singh bowed out of the London Games on Monday night after losing 13-17 to Uzbekistan's Abbos Atoev in the quarter-finals of the middleweight category, at the Excel Arena.

India's schedule at the Games - August 7
Indian athletes will be in action in various disciplines at the 2012 Olympics on Monday. Check out their schedule.

August 06, 2012

Algerian runner Makhloufi thrown out for not trying

Algerian middle-distance runner Taoufik Makhloufi has been excluded from the London Olympics for not trying in an 800-metre heat.

Olympics over for shooters Narang, Rajput, Manavjit
Indian shooters ended their Olympic campaign on a dismal note as medal contender Gagan Narang and Sanjeev Rajput crashed out of men's 50m rifle 3 positions event in the qualifying stage, while Manavjit Singh Sandhu also failed enter the final in the men's trap on Monday. AAI supremo Mukherjee to resign?
The Archery Association of India (AAI) secretary general Paresh Nath Mukherjee is planning to resign from his position taking moral responsibility of disastrous performance of archers at the London Olympics. US judoka tests positive for marijuana, expelled
American judo fighter Nick Delpopolo was expelled from the Olympics on Monday after testing positive for marijuana he said he ate accidentally before arriving in London. Delpopolo is the first of the 10,500 Games' athletes to fail an in-competition doping test. Vikas Gowda makes the cut for discus throw final

India's Vikas Gowda became only the seventh Indian to qualify for the finals of a track and field event at the Olympic Games when he hurled the disc to 65.20 metres for automatic qualification.

India's schedule at the Games - August 6
Indian athletes will be in action in various disciplines at the 2012 Olympics on Monday. Check out their schedule. Bolt wins Olympic 100m in 9.63s, Blake second

Usain Bolt of Jamaica won his second straight Olympic gold medal in the men's 100 metres on Sunday, crossing the line in an Olympic record 9.63 seconds. Bolt joined Carl Lewis as only the second man to go back-to-back in track's biggest race.

August 05, 2012

Britain's Ben Ainslie is most successful Olympic sailor

Britain's Ben Ainslie became the most successful Olympic sailor on Sunday, winning gold in the single-handed Finn class to claim a record-breaking fifth consecutive medal.

Lin outwits Lee again to win badminton gold

China's Lin Dan overhauled Lee Chong Wei in the final of the Olympic men's badminton singles on Sunday to become the first man to defend the title and break Malaysian hearts once again. Lee charged out of the blocks to raise Malaysian hopes of a first ever Olympic gold medal but Lin dug deep for a 15-21, 21-10, 21-19 victory in a 79-minute classic, denying his long-time rival in their second successive Games final.

Manavjit misfires, placed 25th in trap qualifiers
Indian shooter Manavjit Singh Sandhu fared dismally and finished 25th out of 34 competitors on Day 1 of the qualification round of the men's trap event at the Olympic Games and has extremely slim chances of making it to Monday's finals. At the end of three rounds, Manavjit -- in his third Olympics -- totalled 70 points out of a possible 75, with rounds of 24, 24 and 22, at the Royal Artillery Barracks. Indian hockey team's misery at the Games continues

India crashed to their fourth successive defeat in the men's Olympic hockey competition, thrashed 4-1 by South Korea on Sunday. India is the only team among 12 competing at these Games without a point from five matches.

Poonia satisfied with seventh-place finish

Discus thrower Krishna Poonia is satisfied with her seventh place finish at the London Games and aims to do better in the next Olympics in Brazil.

Archers have no excuses to offer, says coach Limba Ram
Struggling to explain the much-hyped archers' flop-show at the Olympic Games, coaches Limba Ram and Ravi Shankar today said they have no excuses to offer for the below-par performance. India approach CAS after Vikas Krishnan appeal rejected
India took a strong exception to their protest being rejected to overturn the controversial ouster of 69kg boxing medal hope Vikas Krishan from the Olympics by approaching the Court of Arbritration of Sports on Saturday. Boxer Manoj says judges 'cheated' after loss

India's Manoj Kumar bowed out of the Olympic Games in controversial manner after he went down to Great Britain's George Stalker in men's light welterweight (64) kg category.

Poonia 7th in discus throw, Perkovic wins gold

India's Krishna Poonia finished seventh in the women's discus throw at the London Olympics after a below-par performance on Saturday. The Commonwealth Games gold medallist's best effort was a clearance of 63.62 metres, well below her personal best of 64.76m, also a national record.

Phelps collects 18th gold medal in final race

Michael Phelps won the 18th gold of a mind-boggling career in the 4x100 metre medley relay on Saturday, retires with twice as many golds as any other Olympian.

India's schedule at the Games - August 5
Indian athletes will be in action in various disciplines at the 2012 Olympics on Sunday. Check out their schedule.

August 04, 2012

Irfan finishes creditable 10th in 20km walk
India's K T Irfan finished a creditable 10th in the men's 20km walk, setting a new national record in the process, at the London Olympics, on Saturday. He clocked 1:20.21s in a field of 56 walkers, bettering the old national record of 1:20.35s, which stood in the name of Gurmeet Singh. India's protest on Vikas ouster rejected

India's bid to overturn the controversial ouster of 69kg boxing medal hope Vikas Krishan from the Olympics went in vain when the world governing body for the game rejected their appeal.

Devendro beats Beijing Games silver medalist to enter QF

Laishram Devendro Singh proved too good for 2008 Beijing Games silver medallist Serdamba Purevdorj of Mongolia to storm into the quarter-finals of the men's light-fly (49kg) category at the London Olympics' boxing competition on Saturday. The pocket-sized dynamo from Manipur won 16-11 and put himself a win away from a bronze medal.

Team bars Kim Collins from Olympic 100m heats

Former 100-metre World champion Kim Collins was disciplined by the St. Kitts and Nevis team and dropped from the event at the London Olympics on Saturday. St. Kitts and Nevis team spokesman Lester Hanley told The Associated Press that Collins would not run in his heat after breaking team discipline rules by leaving the athletes' village.

Saina Nehwal wins bronze after Wang retires hurt
Saina Nehwal of India has won the Olympic bronze medal after Wang Xin of China retired with a left knee injury in the second game of their playoff on Saturday. Sudha finishes 13th in 3000m steeplechase heats

India's Sudha Singh crashed out of the London Olympics after failing to qualify for the final of the women's 3000m steeplechase. She finished a lowly 13th among 15 runners in the first heat on Saturday.

Shooter Shagun exits after finishing 20 among 22
Shooter Shagun Chowdhary's campaign at the London Olympics ended on a disappointing note as she failed to qualify for the final of the women's trap event after finishing 20th, on Saturday. Italian shooter Rossi sets record in trap qualifying
Italy's Jessica Rossi has set world and Olympic records in qualifying for the women's trap shooting competition at the London Games, making all 75 of her shots over three rounds. IOC announces 2 more Olympic doping cases
The IOC says a Russian cyclist and Colombian track and field athlete have failed Olympic drug tests. Rowers Sandeep, Manjeet finish second last
India's campaign in the rowing event of the London Olympics came to a dismal end with the duo of Sandeep Kumar and Manjeet Singh finishing second last in the Men's Double sculls event at the Eton Dorney Rowing centre on Saturday. India to appeal against boxer Vikas's overturned decision

India will appeal against the International Boxing Association's (AIBA) decision to overturn a result that cost welterweight boxer Vikas Krishan a quarter-final spot at the London Olympics, chef de mission P K M Raja said on Saturday.

India to decide over boxer Vikas's ouster after meeting

Stunned by Vikas Krishan's ouster from the Olympic Games following a reversal of decision by the International Boxing Association, Indian Chef-de-Mission P K Muralidharan Raja has said the country's contingent will not take AIBA's decision lying down even though it has "limited options" in the matter.

Boxer Vikas Krishan crashes out after AIBA overturns win
The 20-year-old had won 13-11 over Errol Spence in a thrilling contest last night but following an appeal by his rival's team management, the AIBA awarded the bout 15-13 to the American. India's schedule at the Games - August 4
Indian athletes will be in action in various disciplines at the 2012 Olympics on Friday. Check out their schedule. Vikas Krishan moves into quarterfinals

India's top boxer Vikas Krishnan moved into the quarterfinals of the men's welter weight (69 kg) category of the Olympic Games by prevailing over Errol Spence of USA at the Excel Arena late on Friday night.

Dibaba defends Olympic 10,000 title in London

Tirunesh Dibaba of Ethiopia pulled away with 600 meters to go and won the 10,000 meters at the London Games on Friday to defend her Olympic title.

Moroccan runner tests positive for doping
Moroccan 1,500 meters runner Amine Laalou has not run in his heat at the London Olympics, and was reported to have tested positive for doping. Poonia qualifies for discus throw final

Krishna Poonia qualified for the women's discus throw final at the London Olympics with an impressive effort in the qualification round on Friday, Day 1 of the track and field events.

Murray sets up final against Federer

The 30-year-old Swiss, who added a 17th Grand Slam title to his collection last month on the same Centre Court, survived a record-breaking scrap to win 3-6, 7-6, 19-17 in the longest men's three-set match played in the professional era.

August 03, 2012

Lee to face nemesis Lin for men's badminton gold

Malaysia's Lee Chong Wei set up a chance for redemption and a re-match with Beijing Games nemesis Lin Dan at the London Olympics badminton tournament on Friday. Top seed Lee crushed third-seeded Chinese Chen Long 20-13, 20-14 while reigning champion Lin, who thrashed Lee for the gold medal in an emotional victory at his home Games, beat South Korea's Lee Hyun-il 21-12, 21-10 in the second semi-final.

Chetri says Indian team not learning from mistakes
Indian hockey captain Bharat Chetri says the team is not learning from its mistakes and it is becoming a serious problem after three straight defeats in the Olympic Games. Rower Swarn 16th in single sculls
Indian rower Swarn Singh Virk ended his London Olympics campaign in 16th place after finishing fourth in a minor placings race in the men's single sculls event. Ullalmath last in 1500m freestyle
The 20-year-old from Bangalore, who qualified for the Olympics under FINA's strange "universality" clause while four of the country's more fancied swimmers failed to make it to the Games, ended up at the rear in the seven-man heat number one, and his effort of 16:31.14 secs was the worst timing among the 31 swimmers who participated in the events' four heats. Congratulate Vijay Kumar on his Olympic silver

Indian shooter Vijay Kumar won the silver medal in the 25m Rapid Fire pistol event at the London Olympics on Friday.

Shooter Karmakar misses 50m rifle prone bronze narrowly

Joydeep Karmakar narrowly missed out on a bronze medal in the 50m rifle prone event after setting an Olympic record in the qualifying stage at the London Olympics

Om Prakash, Mayookha disappoint

India's athletics campaign began on a disappointing note, with shot putter Om Prakash Karhana and triple jumper Mayookha Johny failing to advance to the final round after finishing 19th and 22nd, respectively in the qualifiers at the London Olympics on Friday.

Om Prakash out of shot put final at Games

India's athletics campaign at the Olympic Games got off to a poor start with Om Prakash Singh failing to make the shot put final, finishing a disappointing 19th in the qualification round with a below-par performance on Friday.

Opening ceremony march past crasher regrets her action

Madhura Nagendra, the woman who gatecrashed into the Indian Olympic contingent's march past at the opening ceremony of the London Olympics, today regretted the incident, saying 'it was an error of judgement' on her part.

Chinese media blame IOC, BWF for badminton scam
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Badminton World Federation must shoulder some responsibility for the match-throwing scandal at the 2012 Games, Chinese state media said on Friday. Vijender scores narrow win to enter quarter-finals

The 26-year-old Vijender, bronze medallist at the Beijing Olympics, scraped past Terrell Gausha of the US with a 16-15 verdict.

August 02, 2012

India's schedule at the Games - August 3
Indian athletes will be in action in various disciplines at the 2012 Olympics on Friday. Check out their time schedule Lee Chong Wei too strong for Kashyap

Parupalli Kashyap played his heart out before going down fighting to world No 2 Lee Chong Wei in a gruelling quarter-final of the men's singles badminton event at the London Olympics on Thursday.

Boxing body expels referee from London Olympics
An Olympic boxing referee from Turkmenistan has been expelled from the London Games over his handling of a bout in which the result was overturned on appeal. Boxing's governing body, known as AIBA, says referee Ishanguly Meretnyyazov 'is on his way back home'. Jai Bhagwan no match for Kazakh boxer

India's fortunes continued to tumbled at the London Olympics as boxer Jai Bhagwan went down to Gani Zhailauov of Kazakhstan in the men's lightweight 60-kg event at the ExCel South Arena 2, on Thursday. Zhailauov, bronze medallist at the World Championships last year, proved too superior for the Indian boxer, registering a convincing 16-8 victory.

Olympics: Australian rower detained by police
Australia's disappointing London Games took another bad turn on Thursday when team officials revealed a rower had been detained by police for allegedly causing damage to a storefront in an alcohol-related incident. Sodhi fails to make double trap final

India's medal hope in shooting Ronjan Sodhi failed to qualify for the finals of the men's double trap event at the Olympics on Thursday. The former world No 1 from Ferozepur fired 134 out of 150 to finish a shocking 11th out of 24 competitors In the qualifying rounds and crashed out of the competition.

Disqualified Chinese player Yu quits badminton

Disgraced Chinese Yu Yang has decided to quit badminton while national officials have told their Olympic team leaders and disgraced players to make a public apology for throwing matches at the London Games.

IOC asks federations to probe badminton officials
The IOC is asking the Chinese, South Korean and Indonesian national Olympic committees to investigate the coaches of the badminton players who were disqualified for trying to lose matches. Chinese tell badminton players to apologise
Chinese officials have told their Olympic badminton team leader and disgraced players to make a public apology following the deliberate throwing of matches at the London Games, the Xinhua news agency said on Thursday. 'Hungary' Gyurta takes gold in record time

Hungary's Daniel Gyurta was third-time lucky on Wednesday as he powered to gold in the 200 metres breaststroke, breaking a world record and denying host-nation Britain their first male swimming gold in almost a quarter of a century.

India's schedule at the Games - August 2
Indian athletes will be in action in various disciplines at the 2012 Olympics on Thursday. Check out their time schedule. Saina demolishes Jie Yao to enter quarter-finals

Indian ace Saina Nehwal romped into the quarter-finals of the women's singles after notching a comfortable straight-game victory over Dutch Jie Yao in the London Olympics. The world No 5 Indian tired out the Dutch girl by engaging her in rallies and executing her strokes with perfection to emerge victorious 21-14, 21-16 in 40 minutes at the Wembley Arena.

August 01, 2012

Gopichand accuses Japanese pair of 'wanting to lose'

India coach Pullella Gopichand on Wednesday accused Japanese badminton pair Mizuki Fujii and Reika Kakiiwa of "wanting to lose" their group match after his women's doubles team Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponnappa failed to qualify for the knockout stage in Group B amid allegations of match-throwing, at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Rower Swarn 2nd in minor placings race
Already out of medal contention, Indian rower Swarn Singh Virk finished second in a minor placings race in single sculls while Sandeep Kumar and Manjeet Singh fought to save themselves from ending bottom of the heap in lightweight double sculls in London Olympics on Wednesday. India's badminton protest rejected for lack of evidence

India's appeal against the result of a Group B match between Japan and Chinese Taipei in the Olympics women's doubles badminton competition, which they alleged was not played in the right spirit and resulted in the elimination of the Indian pair, was turned down on Wednesday. Badminton Association Of India president Akhilesh Das Gupta said the formal protest was rejected because of lack of evidence.

Phelps probably not greatest Olympian: Coe
American swimmer Michael Phelps is 'probably not' the greatest Olympic champion of all time, despite winning a record total of 19 medals, London 2012 Games chief Sebastian Coe said on Wednesday. Shooters Rahi, Annu out of 25m pistol event
India's women shooters continue to disappoint as Rahi Sarnobat and Annu Raj Singh failed to qualify for the final round of the women's 25m pistol event after finishing 19th and 30th in the qualification at the London Olympics, on Wednesday. Eight women's badminton players disqualified
Eight women badminton players were disqualified by the sport's federation from the London Games competition, the federation said on Wednesday, after they tried to lose matches in a bid to secure a more favourable draw. 'Paddlers should not have gone for march past'

Indian paddlers were overawed by the enormity of the Olympics, says national coach Bhawani Mukherji, who feels that both Ankita Das and Soumyajit Ghosh should have focussed on their matches rather than wasting crucial time participating in the opening ceremony.

Phelps, Lochte through to 200m IM semis

Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte both safely qualified for the semi-finals of the men's 200 metres individual medley at the London Olympics on Wednesday.

IOC expels Uzbek gymnast after positive B sample
The IOC says a female gymnast from Uzbekistan has been formally expelled from the London Olympics after her backup 'B' sample also came back positive for doping. Deepika's exit ends India's archery campaign at Games

Indian archers' dismal show came to an end at the London Olympics as World No 1 and medal hope Deepika Kumari bowed out of women's individual event after suffering an upset defeat against Amy Oliver of Great Britain in the opening round on Wednesday.

Chinese public, media scuffs at western media

Chinese public and media rallied behind young Chinese swimming sensation Ye Shiwen, accusing the western media of trying to belittle her performances at the London Olympics with unsubstantiated allegation of doping.

Kashyap creates history, reaches quarters

Shuttler Parupalli Kashyap on Wednesday became the first Indian man in history to reach the quarter-finals of the Olympic Games after securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Sri Lanka's Niluka Karunaratne at the Wembley Arena in London.

Eight baddy players charged for throwing matches at Games

The World Badminton Federation charged eight female players with misconduct on Wednesday after four Olympic doubles teams had attempted to 'throw' matches to secure a more favourable draw later in the tournament.

Boxer Manoj Kumar storms into last 16

Indian pugilist Manoj Kumar made it to the last 16 in the men's Light-welter (64kg) division at the London Games, beating Serdar Hudayberdiyev (Turkmenistan) late on Tuesday night. The Haryana boxer won 13-7. He will meet world No 1 and third seed Tom Stalker of Great Britain next.

Phelps sets record with 19th career Olympic medal

Michael Phelps swam into history with his 19th Olympic medal, and this one was a more appropriate color.

India's schedule at the Games - August 1
Indian athletes will be in action in various disciplines at the 2012 Olympics on Wednesday. Check out their time schedule. Jwala-Ashwini fail to enter quarter-finals despite win
Indian women's doubles pair of Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponnappa notched up a comfortable straight-game victory over Lei Yao and Shinta Mulia Sari of Singapore in their last group B match but still failed to enter the quarter-finals of the London Olympics.

July 31, 2012

Deepika India's last hope in archery

Indian challenge in the individual archery recurve section is almost over with all archers save Deepika Kumari have crashed out of their respective events.

Devendro scores quick win in opening round

Devendro Singh got off to a smashing start at the London Games, thrashing Bayron Figueroa Molina of Honduras in his opening bout in the men's light-flyweight 49-kg. The referee was forced to stop the contest in round one.

Indian rowers out of medal reckoning
Indian rowers fell out of the reckoning for a medal in the Olympics with Swarn Singh Virk finishing fourth in the quarter-final round of the single sculls competition. Gagan really deserves the medal: Rasquinha

Gagan Narang's bronze at the London Olympics on Monday was India's third in shooting and eighth individual medal overall from the quadrennial extravaganza.

Lifter Ravi Kumar disappoints
India's weightlifting campaign at the London Olympics ended on Tuesday after Katulu Ravi Kumar's below-par performance in the men's 69kg category at the ExCel Arena. Ravi Kumar, who had just recovered in time for the event after a bout of fever, lifted a below par 303kg -- 136kg in snatch and 167kg in clean and jerk -- to finish sixth in the 10-lifter Group B competition. Judoka Garima knocked out of Olympics in under 90 seconds

Indian judoka Garima Chaudhary's Olympic debut lasted merely 81 seconds as she was knocked out by Japanese Yoshie Ueno in the first elimination round of the 63kg category, at the London Games on Tuesday.

Barca will not rush Villa back from injury: Puyol
Barcelona striker David Villa is recovering well from a broken leg but the club will not rush him back into action before he is ready, captain Carles Puyol said. 'Disappointed' Bindra returns home empty-handed

Four years ago, he was the darling of the nation after winning the gold medal in the 10 meters Air Rifle event at the Beijing Games, but on Monday he was a forgotten man after failing to qualifying for the final.

Archers Swuro, Talukdar make their way out of Olympics

Indian archers continued to be off target at the Olympics as Jayanta Talukdar and Chekrovolu Swuro crashed out in the opening round of the men's and women's individual events, respectively at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London on Tuesday.

IOC hints that China's Ye is clean

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) hinted on Tuesday that gold medallist swimmer Ye Shiwen of China had not tested positive for any drugs as the doping controversy triggered by her sensational performances refused to abate.

India eye win over NZ to keep hopes alive in hockey

Their Olympic campaign off to a losing start, erstwhile champions India would be desperate to return to winning ways against an unpredictable New Zealand in their second Group B match of the men's hockey competition on Wednesday.

Sharapova is top paid female athlete

French Open champion Maria Sharapova held her perch atop the list of the world's highest paid women in professional sports for an eighth consecutive year, according to an annual survey released by Forbes on Monday.

Lin Dan reveals he is not driven by Gold medal anymore

Desperation to prove himself in front of his fans drove Lin Dan to his Olympic badminton gold medal at Beijing, but in London the Chinese just hopes to act as a statesman for the game he loves.

UK man held over Twitter jibe against diver
Police say a man has been arrested in connection with Twitter postings directed at British Olympic diver Tom Daley. Kashyap qualifies for knock-out stage in men's singles

Parupalli Kashyap scored a dominating straight games win over Vietnam's Tien Minh Nguyen to progress to the pre-quarter-finals of the men's singles event of the badminton competition at the London Olympics on Tuesday.

Royal Zara helps put Britain in medal contention

Zara Phillips has pulled her royal weight, helping put Britain in medal contention heading into Tuesday's show jumping final of the three-discipline Olympic equestrian eventing competition.

India's protest over boxer Sangwan's loss turned down

India's protest against the controversial opening-round loss of boxer Sumit Sangwan (81kg) on Monday at the London Olympic Games has been rejected by the jury that reviewed his bout against Brazilian Yamaguchi Falcao Florentino.

Saudi woman judoka allowed to compete in hijab at Games

One of Saudi Arabia's two first female Olympians will take part in the judo competition after agreement was reached on an acceptable design for an Islamic headscarf, or hijab, officials said on Monday.

India's schedule at the Games - July 31
Indian athletes will be in action in various disciplines at the 2012 Olympics on Tuesday. Check out their time schedule. Saina cruises, Jwala-Ashwini stun world No 10 pair Tan

India's ace shuttler Saina Nehwal cruised into the knock-out stage of the women's singles competition at the London Olympics after notching a comfortable victory over Belgium's Lianne Tan in a group stage match on Monday. Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponnappa stunned world No 10 Yu Chin Chien and Wen Hsing Cheng of Chinese Taipei 25-23, 16-21, 21-18.

July 30, 2012

Unlucky Sangwan loses after brave fight

Indian pugilist Sumit Sangwan was a bit unlucky to crash out of the London Olympics after a heart-wrenching opening-round loss to Yamaguchi Falcao Florentino of Brazil, in the men's light heavyweight category on Monday.

Swiss Olympic team expels player for racist tweet

Switzerland footballer Michel Morganella has been expelled from the London Olympics for posting a racist message on Twitter.

Tendulkar leads the congratulations for Narang

Sachin Tendulkar congratulated ace shooter Gagan Narang for winning a bronze medal in the men's 10m Air Rifle event and opening India's account in the London Olympic Games.

'Lady luck did not smile on Abhinav today'

Beijing Games gold medallist Abhinav Bindra may have crashed out of the 10m air rifle event at the London Olympics after poor display in the qualifying rounds, but his father, Dr A S Bindra, is not dejected. He said his son fought like a brave sportsman.

Gagan must concentrate on next two events, says father

B S Narang, Gagan's father, says the family expected gold from his son, but the bronze he won is also very good. 'It will certainly boost his morale for the remaining two events.'

The US TT team at the Olympics has an Indian connection

The excitement was palpable at the India Community Centre's (ICC) recent 4th annual fundraiser after three of its table tennis players -- Ariel Hsing, Lily Zhang and Timothy Wang -- were chosen to represent the United States at the London 2012 Olympics. The Indian Community Centre in California has coached all three players representing the US in table tennis at the Games.

Archer Bombayla bows out in pre-quarters

The disappointing show by Indian archers continued as Laishram Bombayla Devi bowed out in the pre-quarterfinals of the women's individual recurve event losing 2-6 to Mexico's Roman Aida at the Lord's at the London Olympics on Monday.

Gagan Narang wins 10m Air Rifle bronze, Bindra fails

Gagan Narang brings glory to India as he wins the first medal for the country at the London Olympics. Narang won the bronze medal in the 10 metres Air Rifle in London on Monday.

Phelps 5th-fastest in 200m butterfly qualifier

Michael Phelps opened defense of his Olympic title in the 200-meter butterfly with the fifth-fastest qualifying time in the preliminaries on Monday.

Swimmer Alshammar to skip 100m freestyle with injury
Swedish swimmer Therese Alshammar has decided to skip the 100-meter freestyle at the Olympics because of a pinched nerve in her neck, although she may still swim the 50. Spain faces FIFA action after Olympic elimination

Spain faces FIFA disciplinary action after a bad-tempered elimination from the London Olympics football tournament.

Bindra crashes out, Narang keeps India's hopes alive

Beijing Games gold medallist Abhinav Bindra crashed out of the 10m Air Rifle event at the London Olympics with a dismal display in the qualifying rounds, but compatriot Gagan Narang kept alive India's hopes by advancing to the medal round in London on Monday.

London 2012 Olympic flame relocated

The Olympic cauldron has been extinguished and the flame transferred to a lantern as it is relocated to a different part of the Olympic Stadium, Locog has confirmed.

US basketball team unhappy with refs after win over France

The shrill of whistles came fast and furious. For a stretch in the first half, it seemed the US Olympic men's basketball team was having more trouble with the referees than with France.

Invisible flame is burning issue of London Games

The Olympic flame is nowhere to be seen. The enduring image of the Summer and Winter Games, lit Friday night at the climax of the opening ceremony, is out of sight from the throngs of fans who hoped to catch an inspiring glimpse or take the photo of a lifetime.

Michelle Obama lifted by US wrestler

US First Lady Michelle Obama was carried by her nation's Olympic wrestler Elena Pirozhkova during a meet and greet with Team USA Olympic athletes competing in the 2012 Summer Olympic Games.

London police lose security keys of Wembley stadium
London police lost a set of keys at an Olympic venue last week -- but security was not compromised by the incident, officials said on Sunday. Chinese swimmer hits out at nation's training regimes

Chinese swimmer Lu Ying, fresh from winning a silver medal in the women's 100 metre butterfly, spoke out after the race against the Chinese training system, in a rare display of criticism from one of the country's athletes.

Brazilian boxer accuses judges of biasness towards Brits

Brazilian lightweight Robson Conceicao claimed he was the victim of biased judging after he lost in the first round to Britain's Josh Taylor on Sunday.

Two more athletes caught for doping at Games
Two athletes saw their Olympic hopes cut short on Sunday after being suspended from the London 2012 Games for using banned performance-enhancing drugs, taking the tally of doping offenders after two days of competition to three. US athletes use Twitter to protest ad rules
A group of US athletes protested on Twitter on Sunday over curbs on appearing in commercials during the Olympics in what looked like a concerted challenge to rules designed to protect Games sponsors. Phelps makes splash with 17th medal on day of records

Swimmer Michael Phelps won his 17th Olympic medal to take him closer to the all-time mark, but his US freestyle relay team were upstaged by France as records fell in the pool on Sunday's second day of competition at the London Games.

India's schedule at the Games - July 30
Indian athletes will be in action in various disciplines at the 2012 Olympics on Monday. Check out their time schedule.

July 29, 2012

Radwanska out, Murray wins under roof

Number two seed Agnieszka Radwanska made a shock first round exit from the women's singles on Sunday while fellow Wimbledon runner-up Britain's Andy Murray made light work of his match against Stanislas Wawrinka to advance to the second round.

Superb Neymar steers Brazil through to last eight
Gold medal favourites Brazil became the first team to qualify for the quarter-finals as they came from behind to beat Belarus 3-1 at Old Trafford, thanks to an inspired performance from Neymar, who scored and set up the two other goals. Somdev exits after rain interrupts tennis event
Rain played havoc with the tennis schedule at the Olympic Games, prompting the organisersto postpone many matches, including the men's doubles fixtures involving Indian players Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi. Record-breaking American Rhode wins skeet gold

Shooter Kimberley Rhode etched her name into the annals of great American Olympians on Sunday when she easily won the women's skeet gold medal to become the first U.S. competitor to win individual medals in five consecutive Games.

India's TT campaign ends as Soumyajit loses

Soumyajit Ghosh's Olympic campaign in the table tennis event came to an end after the youngster fought valiantly before going down to Bong Hyok Kim of North Korea in the men's singles second round at ExCel.

Saina kicks-off Olympics campaign on rousing note

India's ace shuttler Saina Nehwal got off to a rousing start at the Olympics. She had things her way against Switzerland's Sabrina Jaquet in the women's singles group stage match in London on Sunday. The world No 5 needed just 22 minutes to get past the 65-ranked Swiss, winning 21-9, 21-4, at the Wembley arena.

Boxers Vijender, Bhagwan storm into pre-quarter-finals

Indian boxing's pin-up boy Vijender Singh and Jai Bhagwan set the ring ablaze with dominating performances on their way to the pre-quarter-finals at the Olympics Games. Beijing Games bronze medallist Vijender Singh (75kg) out-punched Kazakhstan's Danabek Sukhanov 14-10 in the middleweight category late Saturday night, before Bhagwan outclassed Andrique Allisop of Seychelles 18-8 in the lightweight (60kg) at the ExCel arena on Sunday afternoon.

Jwala-Diju suffer second straight defeat

India's mixed doubles pair of Jwala Gutta and V Diju are virtually out of the reckoning at the London Olympics. They suffered yet another straight-games defeat in their second group match in the badminton competition at the Wembley arena on Sunday.

Judo result overturned after angry crowd erupts

A cacophony of boos from the crowd helped force a reviewing jury to take the unprecedented step of overturning the decision of a referee and his two judges in the Olympic judo on Sunday.

IOC suspends Uzbek gymnast Galiulina for doping
A female gymnast from Uzbekistan was provisionally suspended from the London Olympics on Sunday after failing a drug test, the second doping case of the games. Heena Sidhu, Annu Raj bow out of Olympics
Indian shooters continued to misfire at the Olympic Games as Heena Sidhu and Annu Raj Singh bowed out of the women's 10m air pistol event after failing to qualify for the finals in London on Sunday. Vardhan replaces Kohlschreiber in men's singles draw
A lucky Vishnu Vardhan joined Somdev Devvarman in the men's singles event of the tennis competition at the Olympics Games as he replaced injured Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany in the draw on Sunday. India parade crasher at Games opening a cast member: Coe

A woman who gatecrashed India's parade at the Olympic opening ceremony was a member of the cast from the extravaganza but should not have been with the athletes, London 2012 chief Sebastian Coe said on Sunday.

Swaran rows into quarters, lightweight doubles team out
Indian rower Swaran Singh Virk held off a late challenge from his South Korean rival to win the single sculls repechage round and book a berth in the quarter-finals at the London Olympics on Sunday. Heartbroken Radcliffe out of Games

World marathon record holder Paula Radcliffe finally accepted defeat in her battle to be fit to race at the London Olympics, withdrawing from the Games on Sunday because of injury.

Indian women's archery team crashes out of Games
The Indian women's archery team was off target in crunch situations as it lost to Denmark by a point in a see-saw pre-quarterfinal battle at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London on Sunday. Games organisers to investigate empty seats
Olympic organizers are investigating how rows of seats at some venues were left empty on the first full day of competition at the London Games. Lotche overshadows Phelps in pool duel

American swimmer Ryan Lochte made the biggest splash of the London Games so far by obliterating his compatriot Michael Phelps, the greatest swimmer in Olympic history, in the first of their eagerly awaited duels.

Korean swimmer Park wins appeal but loses title

Park Tae-hwan surrendered his Olympic 400 metres freestyle title after a roller-coaster first day in the Olympic pool that started with a shock disqualification and ended with reinstatement and a silver medal.

Vijender off to a winning start at London Olympics
India's star pugilist Vijender Singh got off to a winning start at the London Olympics, scoring a convincing victory over Danabek Suzhanov of Kazakhstan, in the men's middleweight 75-kg category, on Saturday. The Beijing Olympics bronze medallist scored a 14-10 win in his first bout at the ExCel to advance to the Round of 16. Australia win 400 freestyle relay in Olympic record
Australia won gold in the women's 400-metre freestyle relay, setting an Olympic record of 3 minutes, 33.15 seconds on Saturday night. The Netherlands won silver in 3:33.79 while the US slipped to the bronze in 3:34.24. Italy wins first gold ever in team archery
Italy has won the gold medal in men's team archery at the London Olympics, the first ever for the country. The United States took silver and South Korea won the bronze medal in Saturday's competition at Lord's Cricket Ground. Lochte wins 400 IM in a blowout; Phelps 4th

Ryan Lochte turned his much-anticipated duel with Michael Phelps into a blowout, pulling away to win the 400-meter individual medley by more than 3 seconds Saturday night. And even more stunning: Phelps didn't even win a medal.

India's schedule at the Games - July 29
Indian athletes will be in action in various disciplines at the 2012 Olympics on Saturday. Check out their time schedule.

July 28, 2012

China's Wang eases to victory in 48kg lift

China's Wang Mingjuan extended a 10-year unbeaten international record to win gold in the first women's weightlifting event of the London Games, giving the Chinese team a perfect start in their defence of four Olympic titles.

Brazil's Sarah Menezes takes 48kg judo gold
Brazil's Sarah Menezes took gold in the women's 48kg category on Saturday, defeating reigning Olympic champion Romania's Alina Dumitru. Kazakh cyclist Vinokourov wins men's road race

Kazakhstan's Alexandre Vinokourov sprinted to victory in the men's cycling road race on Saturday, crushing British hopes of gold on the first full day of competition at the London Olympic Games.

South Korea's Jin wins 10m pistol gold

Shooter Jin Jong-oh survived a mid-final wobble to claim victory in the men's 10 metre air pistol on Saturday to give South Korea their first gold medal of the London Olympics. Jin finished with a score of 688.2 after his 10 shots in the eight-man final with Italy's Luca Tesconi winning silver with 685.8 and Serbia's Andrija Zlatic taking bronze on 685.2.

Shiv Thapa's Olympic debut over in 1st round
Teenage boxing sensation Shiva Thapa's Olympic debut ended in disappointment. He was spanked by Mexico's Oscar Valdez Fierro in a bantamweight opening round bout at the London Games on Saturday. The 18-year-old Thapa, who was considered a medal hope, was out-punched 9-14 in the much-anticipated bout, as India began their boxing campaign on a losing note at the Excel arena. Vijay Kumar fails to qualify in 10m Air Pistol
Shooter Vijay Kumar had a stuttering start to his Olympic campaign, failing to qualify for the men's 10m Air Pistol final after finishing a lowly 31st, on Saturday. Vijay tallied 570 after a sequence of 94, 95, 94, 97, 97, 93 at the Royal Artillery Barracks, where 44 shooters competed for the top eight places. South Korea files protest over Park's disqualification

South Korea has filed a protest over defending champion Park Tae-hwan's disqualification in the 400-meter freestyle event on the opening day of the Olympic swimming competition.

Soumyajit progresses in TT, Ankita loses
Young Soumyajit Ghosh's maiden appearance at the Olympics was a memorable one as he advanced to the second round of the table tennis event after Ankita Das bowed out on Saturday. Rower Virk 4th in sculls heats, fight in repechage
India's Swarn Singh Virk finished fourth in the heats of the single sculls event of rowing competition at the London Olympics on Saturday. India annoyed over mystery woman at march past

The presence of an unidentified lady beside flagbearer Sushil Kumar in the Indian contingent during the opening ceremony of the Olympics has prompted the country's miffed officials to take up the issue with the Games organisers.

Kiwi men's pair set world best time at Olympics
Eric Murray and Hamish Bond of New Zealand smashed the world best time in the men's pair by nearly six seconds at the Olympic rowing regatta on Saturday. Berdych ousted at Olympics
Sixth-seeded Tomas Berdych lost in straight sets to Steve Darcis of Belgium on Saturday in the first round of Olympic play at Wimbledon. Britain stuns China in men's gymnastics qualifying
Britain's men's gymnastics team kicked off the London Olympics in a big way Saturday, upsetting defending Olympic and World champion China to take the early lead in qualifying. Shock disqualification for former swimming champ Park

World and Olympic 400 metres freestyle champion Park Tae-hwan of South Korea was disqualified on Saturday in the first big shock of the swimming competition at the London Games.

Albanian weightlifter banned from Olympics
The International Olympic Committee has formally excluded Albanian weightlifter Hysen Pulaku from the London Olympics after he failed a doping test. Chinese shooter Yi Siling wins first gold at London Games

Top-ranked Yi Siling of China captured the first gold medal of the London Olympics in the women's 10-meter air rifle at Royal Artillery Barracks on Saturday.

Kashyap wins, Jwala-Diju lose opening match
Indian shuttler Parupalli Kashyap started his Olympic campaign in style, getting the better of Belgium's Yuhan Tan in straight games in a Group D match in London on Saturday. The 25-year-old Hyderabadi took just 38 minutes to see off Tan 21-14, 21-12 at the Wembley Arena. Lochte impresses, Phelps slowest in 400 IM qualifier

Michael Phelps barely qualified in the 400-meter individual medley on the opening day of Olympic swimming, squeaking into the final by seven-hundredths of a second on Saturday.

Irish athlete questioned over betting claims
Ireland's Olympic Council is investigating an allegation that one of its competitors at the London Games previously bet on an opponent to win an event in which they were both competing, a spokesman said on Saturday. Men's archery team knocked out of Olympics

The Indian men's archery team was knocked out of the Olympic Games after losing to Japan in a tense pre-quarterfinal shoot-off at the Lord's Cricket Ground, on Saturday.

Disappointing start for Jwala-Diju in Olympic opener
India's badminton campaign at the London Olympics was off to a disappointing start as the mixed doubles pair of Jwala Gutta and V Diju went down in straight games to Indonesia's Tontowi Ahmad and Liliyana Natsir in their opening group match in London on Saturday. Saina commences Olympic challenge with medal in sight

One of India's brightest medal prospects at the Olympics, in-form badminton star Saina Nehwal will start her campaign on Sunday when she takes on unheralded Swiss Sabrina Jaquet in her opening group match at the Wembley Arena in London.

Young British athletes light Olympic cauldron

Solving the last remaining riddle of the opening ceremony, seven teenagers were given the honour of lighting the Olympic cauldron in the symbolic start to the 2012 London Games.

Queen plays surreal cameo with 007 at opening ceremony

The Queen arrived at the opening ceremony of the Olympics in spectacular style on Friday, greeted by a huge roar from the crowd as she appeared in the stadium to help officially open the London Games.

Embassy denies Sudan runner applied for UK asylum
The Sudanese Embassy on Friday denied that one of its Olympic runners had applied for asylum in the U.K, contradicting previous reports. Jwala unfazed by late change in schedule

Indian badminton doubles ace Jwala Gutta was in for a surprise as last minute changes were made to her playing schedule at the London Olympics on Friday.

July 27, 2012

Israeli minister to protest at opening ceremony
Israel's sports minister will stage a protest during Friday's opening ceremony for the London Olympics to decry the IOC's decision not to hold a moment of silence in honor of the Israeli athletes killed at the 1972 Munich Games. Turkish, Albanian weightlifters fail doping tests
The Olympic weightlifting competition has been hit by three new doping cases on the eve of the games after two Turks and an Albanian tested positive for banned substances. Indian boxers get tricky draw at Olympics
Star Indian boxer Vijender Singh (75kg) was handed out a tricky draw on at the London Olympics Friday. He begins his quest to better his Beijing Games bronze medal-winning feat against Danabek Suzhanov of Kazakhstan in the men's boxing competition, which gets underway on Saturday. Live Chat: Harish Kotian at Olympics opening ceremony

Live chat with Harish Kotian at Olympics opening ceremony.

Deepika disappoints in ranking round at Olympics

Indian women archers started their campaign on a disappointing note as they came up with a ninth place finish at the women's archery team competition in the ranking round held at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London on Friday.

Oops! British minister's blooper with Olympic bell

The British minister in charge of the London Olympics said on Friday he could not promise a tournament without glitches -- and then promptly broke an Olympic bell which flew off its handle and hit his publicist.

Public not allowed to view Olympics archery qualifying
Spectators were angry and confused after being turned away from Olympic archery qualifying Friday in the first major spectator glitch in the Olympic host city. CBI biased against me, claims Bhanot
Opposing framing of charges against him in a Commonwealth Games-related graft case, former Organising Committee secretary general Lalit Bhanot claimed in a Delhi court that the CBI was "biased" against him. Who will light the Olympic flame tonight? Bannister or...

With the finish line fast approaching, Roger Bannister has broken away from the pack and is now the bookmakers' clear front runner to light the Olympic cauldron later Friday.

S Korea's blind archer sets world record, Indians flop

South Korea set the first world records of the London Olympics, both in the men's archery competition, with legally blind Im Dong-hyun breaking the 72-arrow mark with 699 points.

I don't know who will light Olympic flame: IOC chief

Not even IOC President Jacques Rogge knows who will light the cauldron at the opening ceremony of the London Olympics. Rogge says 'I'd love to know" but 'this is one of the best kept secrets.'

India offers government jobs for London medallists
The sports ministry has promised coaching jobs on the government's payroll to all athletes who return with an Olympic medal from London. I believe Olympic ceremony is a success already: Boyle

Danny Boyle, who is directing the Olympic games opening ceremony, is celebrating in advance because he is convinced that the build-up for Friday's big event has helped unite the world during a time of economic turmoil.

India's schedule at the Games on July 27
The schedule of Indian athletes at the London Olympics 2012 on Friday, July 27, 2012. Indian hand in London Olympics
There is an Indian hand in the successful bid and holding of the London Olympics beginning on Friday. 'I hope India will have more women participating'
Having been introduced to shooting at an early age of two, it was no surprise that Shagun Chowdhary was destined for bigger things in the sport. "No worries" as Usain Bolt blocks out bad starts

A laid back Usain Bolt has decided the best way to improve his not-so-perfect start is not to worry about it, the Jamaican world record holder said on Thursday.

'Malleswari's medal and an SRK movie ensured the change'

Karnam Malleswari's medal at Sydney and the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Chak De! India changed the attitude of the people towards women taking up sports as a career, believes badminton ace Aparna Popat.

July 26, 2012

Bhupathi-Bopanna meet Mirnyi-Bury in Olympics opener
The seventh-seeded Indian duo of Mahesh Bhupathi and Rohan Bopanna, whose insistence to play together sparked off a selection storm in the build-up to the Olympics, open their campaign in the Olympic men's doubles against Max Mirnyi and Alexander Bury of Belarus. The event will be held at Wimbledon from July 28. Seasoned pro Leander Paes and his unfancied partner Vishnu Vardhan take on Julien jean Rojer and Robin Haase of the Netherlands. World indoor champ Chondrokoukis out of Olympics

A Greek athlete has failed a doping test, according to an IAAF official, and the father and coach of world indoor high jump champion Dimitris Chondrokoukis says his son has tested positive and withdrawn from the Olympics.

Olympic athlete claims asylum in Britain
Hours ahead of the Olympics, an African athlete has claimed political asylum in Britain. The man, believed to be a middle distance runner in his mid 20s from Africa, was held by the UK Borders Agency on Tuesday night after walking into a police station in Leeds and asking for asylum, The Daily Mail reported. Flag furore "simple human mistake": Rogge
A diplomatic incident when the North Korea Olympic women's football team walked off the field after the South Korea flag had been displayed was a "simple human mistake", International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Jacques Rogge said on Thursday. Capello appointed Russia soccer coach
Fabio Capello signed a contract with the Russian Football Union (RFU) to become Russia's new coach on Thursday. Olympian Yadav likely to be made Dy SP
Commonwealth games gold medalist wrestler Narsing Yadav is likely to be made the deputy superintendent of police (Dy SP) by Maharashtra government in recognition of his achievement. Captain Chetri promises free-flowing hockey from India
India captain Bharat Chetri promises to play free flowing hockey when the eight-time champions step on to the blue turf at the Riverbank arena, in London, against The Netherlands in their opening match of the London Olympics on July 30. First Look: Big B carries Olympic flame in London

Amid cheers from hundreds of fans, Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan carried the Olympic torch at Southwark in London on Thursday, a day before the opening ceremony of the sporting spectacle.

Haryana to give Rs 2.5 crore for Olympics gold
Chief Minister of Haryana Bhupinder Singh Hooda on Thursday announced a cash award of Rs 2.5 crore for the state athletes who will manage to bag the coveted gold medal in any discipline at the London Games. Athletes urged to tweet carefully
Athletes racing to share their views with fans at the London Olympics may think twice before hitting send following the first expulsion of an athlete for a racist Twitter remark. Bhopal victims hold Special Olympics to protest Dow
Survivors of the deadly 1984 Bhopal gas leak are holding a 'Special Olympics' with children suffering birth defects from the tragedy. Chelsea sign Brazilian midfielder Oscar
Chelsea have signed Brazil midfielder Oscar, the English Premier League club said. Woman fencer Zagunis named US flag-bearer

Two-time Olympic champion fencer Mariel Zagunis was selected on Wednesday as the flag-bearer to lead the 529-member US team at Friday's opening ceremony of the London Games.

Cristiane is top scorer as flag faux-pas marks Day 1

Gold-medal favorites United States, Japan and Brazil won their matches on the first day of women's football on Wednesday, but all the talk was about an embarrassing mistake by organizers who displayed the South Korean flag instead of the North Korean one before a game in Glasgow.

Nine athletes handed bans for doping ahead of Games

Nine track and field athletes have been handed lengthy bans for doping violations in a crackdown on the use of prohibited substances in the lead up to the London Olympics, the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) said on Wednesday.

Greek athlete withdrawn for racist tweet

Greek triple jumper Paraskevi Papachristou was withdrawn from the London Olympics on Wednesday after causing an uproar at home for a tweet slammed as racist, the Greek Olympics team said.

July 25, 2012

'Olympics passport scam report to defame Pakistan'
The federal cabinet of Pakistan has decided to take legal action against The Sun for a fabricated report on the Pakistan passport issuing authority, while the National Database Registration Authority (NADRA) officials say it is a ploy to defame the authority that recently beat some British international firms in the bidding process at the international level. Never planned to attend Games opening: Kalmadi
The Delhi high court on Wednesday barred Suresh Kalmadi from attending the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games on July 27. However, the sacked Commonwealth Games Organising Committee chairman claimed he had only sought permission to attend the IAAF Council meeting in London. Kalmadi restrained from attending Games opening
Sacked Commonwealth Games Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi was on Wednesday restrained by the Delhi high court from attending the London Olympics' opening ceremony. The court said his participation in the Games' opening can cause 'embarassment' to the nation. London dope control team told to test Indian athletes
In order to avoid a repeat of the Monika Devi doping scandal-like incident before the Olympics, the National Anti-Doping Agency has tested the urine samples of all Indian athletes except a few who were based abroad for training, its Director General said on Wednesday. 'Secret device' to control London ceremony teams march
The 205 teams marching at the London Olympics opening ceremony will be controlled with a "secret device" to ensure they do not delay the parade, the International Olympic Committee said. Testers nab more than 100 athletes: WADA
More than 100 athletes were caught doping and sanctioned in the months leading up to the London Olympics in a drive to eliminate cheats before they reach the Games, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) said. Coe prepared to run for president of IAAF
London Olympics organising committee chairman Seb Coe has said for the first time that he would like to become president of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) when he steps down from his present job. Beckham to play part in opening ceremony
Former England soccer captain David Beckham will play a cameo role in Friday's Olympic opening ceremony after he was left out of Britain's team for the Games.

July 24, 2012

Government deploys 1,200 more troops to beef up security

The government will deploy the 1,200 troops who were put on stand-by last week to help secure the London Olympics, a minister said on Tuesday as security arrangements were tweaked to make up for a private firm's failure to recruit enough guards.

Dola hopes archers can overcome wind conditions
Dola Banerjee could not make it to her third straight Olympics but the experienced archer has no doubt that the squad picked for the upcoming London Games is the best to represent India and one that can win the country its first-ever medal in the sport at the mega event. Order on plea against Kalmadi's Olympics visit reserved
The Delhi high court reserved its order on a plea to restrain sacked Commonwealth Games Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi from going to London to attend the 2012 Olympics to Wednesday. Olympic committee has over $500 in reserves: IOC

The IOC's financial situation remains solid despite the global economic crisis, with reserves of $558 million and continuing increases in television and sponsorship revenues.

Sports Ministry grants Rs 1.1 lakh to elite athletes
The Sports Ministry released financial assistance of Rs 1018.90 lakh on Monday from its National Sports Development Fund for imparting customised training to elite athletes, who are medal prospects in the London Olympics and other major international events. Indians loving life at Lord's

For most young boys growing up in cricket-crazy India, walking out on the hallowed turf at Lord's is the stuff dreams are made of. Archer Tarundeep Rai is no different.

Asiad medallist Santhi working in brick kiln

Santhi Soundarajan, an Indian athlete whose career in sports ended after a failed gender test, is working as a daily wager at a brick kiln in Tamil Nadu, The Times of India reported on Tuesday.

Iran will compete against Israelis at the Olympics
Iranian athletes will compete against Israelis at the London Olympics, according to the country's chef de mission. Taxi driver dives off Tower Bridge in Olympic protest
A man dived off London's historic Tower Bridge into the River Thames on Monday during a protest by taxi drivers over their exclusion from part of a special Olympic Games road network in the capital.

July 23, 2012

Pak officials suspended after Olympic visa scam
Pakistan today suspended eight officials of the National Database and Registration Authority after a British newspaper reported it had uncovered a visa scam that could allow potential terrorists to sneak into Britain with the country's Olympic team. Not surprised to get Olympic wild card: Somdev

Somdev Devvarman asserted that the shoulder injury which kept him away from competitive tennis for eight months, will not have any impact on how he plays his game when he competes at the London Olympics.

IOC commemorates 1972 Munich Olympics victims
International Olympic Committee president Jacques Rogge paid tribute to the 11 Israeli team members who were killed at the 1972 Munich Games at a ceremony at the Athletes Village in London on Monday. Wrestling: Prayer's profile

Amit is the youngest and one of the first of five wrestlers to book a berth to the London Olympics.

Weightlifting: Player's profile

The Odisha weightlifter is currently World No. 15 following his total lift of 311 kgs at the Asian Championships in April. The bodybuilder-turned-weightlifter came into the limelight in the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi where he bagged three gold. The London Games will serve as a great learning platform for this first timer.

Table Tennis: Player's profile
Soumyajit Ghosh edged out stalwarts like Sharath Kamal and Anthony Amalraj to book a berth to the London Games. Swimming: Player profile

This swimmer from Karnataka was granted an Olympic berth when FINA sprung a surprise by choosing him in the men's 1,500m freestyle under the 'Universality' quota.

Rowing: Player's profile

Swarn Singh Virk secured his spot in the London Olympics by winning his event at the FISA Olympic Continental Qualification Regatta for Asia in Chung Ju in Korea.

Judo: Player profile
Garima is the only Indian judoka to qualify for the London Olympics. Boxing: Player's profile

The youngster from Manipur notched the highest score of the World championship when he over powered his Mexican opponent Velazquez Joselito in the pre-quarter-finals and went on to book a berth to London.

Saina begins Olympic medal quest against Swiss Sabrina

Saina Nehwal will commence her quest for an Olympic medal against unheralded Sabrina Jaquet of Switzerland on July 28. The Indian ace is clubbed in Group E along with Sabrina and Lianne Tan of Belgium.

Badminton: Player's profile

Currently ranked world No. 5. Born in Hisar, Haryana, but grew up in Hyderabad. Playing badminton since she was eight.

Ahtletics: Player's profile

The US-based discus thrower is one of the best medal prospects; he is the first Indian to win a Diamond League medal. Having participated in Beijing four years back, Gowda has experience of the big stage and has trained exceptionally hard.

Archery: Player's profile

With the team finals scheduled on July 28 (men) and 29 (women), ahead of the individuals on August 2 (women) and Aug 3 (men), the archers will look to open the tally for India.

India has no chance of Olympic athletics medal: Anju

India's ace long jumper Anju Bobby George says none of the athletes have come close to an Olympic medal-winning performance this year.

Injured Kluft out of London Games
Former Olympic heptathlon champion Carolina Kluft will miss the London Games after suffering a hamstring injury on Sunday, her coach said. Will our shuttlers declare gold on return from London?
The Badminton Association of India too would hope Saina has gold to declare when she lands at Delhi airport after the Olympics. For that would establish the BAI as a soothsayer of sorts, writes TS Sudhir Pak officials, politicos involved in Olympics visa scam
A major visa scam has been unearthed by a leading UK based tabloid, involving a ring of corrupt Pakistani officials and politicians, which could give potential terrorists the chance to enter Britain with Pakistan's Olympic team. Els says he was inspired by cricketing compatriots

British Open champion Ernie Els said he was inspired by watching South Africa's cricketers turn the screw on England in the first Test before going out to win his fourth major title on Sunday.

Els wins British Open after late Scott collapse

South African Ernie Els won the British Open by one stroke from Adam Scott on Sunday after the Australian suffered an extraordinary late collapse on an incident-packed final day.

July 22, 2012

Wiggins becomes Britain's first Tour de France winner

Bradley Wiggins became the first Briton to win the Tour de France when he claimed the 99th edition of the greatest cycling race on Sunday.

Bolt to star in update to ancient Greek Olympic ode

London Mayor Boris Johnson will read out an Olympic Ode in ancient Greek composed by an Oxford academic to celebrate the athletes and personalities of the London 2012 Games as part of opening ceremonies.

Indian national flag hoisted at Olympic Village
The Indian national flag was hoisted at the Olympic Games Village, in London, on Sunday, in a fun-filled musical ceremony presided by the Village Mayor, in attendance of 35 athletes and delegates. Pakistan female athlete runs for dead friend
Pakistan runner Rabia Ishaq will be motivated by the memory of a dead friend and colleague when she appears as one of her nation's two female athletes at the London Olympics. I will be back for the Open, says Jeev

Jeev Milkha Singh finished his campaign at the 141st Open Championships rather tamely with a three-over 73 that ended with a double bogey on the 18th in Lytham, England, on Sunday.

Ranking has no meaning in the ring: Vikas Krishnan

He is one of India's best bets for an Olympic medal in boxing, but World No 6 Vikas Krishan does not quite like the spotlight on him as he feels it is better to be 'unknown' to lead a normal life.

IOC rules out public commemoration of 1972 Munich killings
The IOC has ruled out marking the 40th anniversary of the Munich massacre at the London Olympics opening ceremony but will visit the airfield where some Israeli team members were killed, it said on Saturday. Mayookha confident of bettering personal best at Olympics

Realistic about her chances in the Olympics, Indian triple-jumper Mayookha said she is targetting a top-six finish in London by improving her personal best effort.

Olympics delegation: Top SAI officials miffed
Miffed at the Government's decision to keep them away from the Olympics, the Sports Authority of India has again requested the Sports Ministry to include the names of SAI officials in the Indian contingent for the London Games. Battle of the sexes over Australian flag bearer role
The choice of Australian flag bearer at Friday's Olympic opening ceremony has turned into a battle of the sexes with the only woman to represent the country at five Games jokingly threatening a sit-down protest if a man again gets the role. South Sudanese runner to race under Olympic flag
A marathon runner born in what is now South Sudan will be allowed to run under the Olympic flag in London, the International Olympic Committee said on Saturday. Manchester United's Smalling out for 10 weeks
Manchester United's England defender Chris Smalling could be sidelined for up to 10 weeks after foot surgery, manager Alex Ferguson said on Saturday. Swimmer Ullalmath realistic of chances at Olympics

Aware that only a miracle will hand him a medal at the Olympics, India's lone participant in swimming, Gagan Ullalmath sees his London Games exposure as a platform to do well in the 2014 Asian Games.

Wiggins seals Tour de France with time trial win

Bradley Wiggins was 120 km away from becoming the first Briton to win the Tour de France after he outclassed the rest of the bunch in the penultimate stage, a 53.5-km time trial to Chartres on Saturday.

Cox stripped of Athens 400m relay gold

American Crystal Cox, who won 4x400m relay gold at the Athens Olympics, was stripped of her medal on Saturday, the International Olympic Committee said.

July 21, 2012

British Open: Hole-in-one icing on the cake for Lahiri

Anirban Lahiri's dream debut run at the 141st Open championships continued unabated as the 25-year-old authored the first ace of the event and then brought home an even par round to stay at par for 54 holes in Royal Lytham (England) on Saturday.

Pankaj Advani out of UK Snooker meet
India's Pankaj Advani crashed out of the UK Players Tour Championship after suffering a 4-0 defeat to England's Michael in Gloucester on Saturday. Archer Deepika certain to win Olympic medal, says mother

The mother of Commonwealth Games gold medal winning archer Deepika Kumari is very confident that her daughter would return home with a medal, of whatever hue, from the London Olympic Games commencing next week.

Anirban Lahiri sinks hole in one in third round
Anirban Lahiri continued his dream debut with a stunning hole-in-one on the ninth hole in the third round of 141st Open Championships at the Royal Lytham and St Annes in England on Saturday. Open should bring back phone ban: Player
Golfing great Gary Player says British Open organisers should ditch their policy of allowing mobile phones on site, which is irritating players and marshals. World C'ships more competitive than Olympics: Mary Kom

It might be the biggest sporting show on earth but women's boxing legend M C Mary Kom feels the Olympics would not be as competitive as the World Championship -- an event in which the Indian has won five gold medals.

Snedeker, Scott to play in shadow of Woods

Brandt Snedeker and Adam Scott continue to bid for a first major win with the shadow of former World No. 1 Tiger Woods looming large ahead of them in the British Open third round on Saturday.

July 20, 2012

Luck plays a major factor in archery, says team manager
Indian archery team manager Paresh Mukherjee has said that though the hype surrounding his team is justified after the archers' recent performances, previous records would be of no value on the day of the competition. Promotions await medal-winning Indian sportspersons
In a morale-booster for sportspersons, players working in central government will get up to three out of turn promotions during their service career for winning medals at various international events including Olympics. 'Mary Kom has technique to win her medals'

Former world champion woman boxer Aruna Mishra said five-time world champion M C Mary Kom, who qualified for the London Olympics, has a fair chance of winning a medal for the country.

Aussie basketball to review travel discrimination
Australia's basketball governing body will review its travel policy after being criticised for flying their men's team to the London Olympics in business class but putting their women's team in economy class. Australia's Hackett denies sleeping pill cost him gold

Retired Australian swimming great Grant Hackett has refuted his former coach's claim that a strong sleeping pill now banned by Australia's Olympic Committee cost him a third consecutive 1,500 metres freestyle gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Games.

British beach volleyball pair face bikini banter

Will you promise you will wear bikinis even if it rains? That was the first question to Britain's women Olympic beach volleyball players at a pre-Games news conference on Thursday, giving a flavour of how the sport is perceived.

UK's G4S defends management fee for venue security

Security firm G4S on Thursday defended a multimillion pound management fee for protecting Britain's Olympic venues after politicians urged it to waive the payment following its failure to provide enough guards.

Gowda, Poonia get personal coaches for Olympics

In the wake of the pressing demands from Indian athletes to include their personal coaches in the Olympic contingent, the Athletics Federation of India has chosen four coaches for the London Games, giving preference to those who has medal chances.

July 19, 2012

Strike threats loom over London Games
Strikes by train drivers and passport officials threaten major disruptions to the London Olympics, prompting the government to warn unions on Thursday that they risked public anger if the industrial action went ahead. Need a bit of luck on the day: Sodhi

He will be more than happy if a little bit of luck goes in his favour, but medal hopeful Ronjan Sodhi made it clear that Indian shooters will have no excuse to offer as far as weather and range conditions are concerned during the Olympic Games.

Wrestler Dahiya not looking beyond London Olympics
Still in disbelief over his qualification to the London Games, youngest member of the Indian wrestling contingent, Amit Kumar Dahiya says he is treating this as his first and last Olympics. Sport Ministry approves 142 member Olympic contingent
The Sports Ministry approved a list of 142-member Indian contingent, submitted by the Indian Olympics Association (IOA), for participation in the 30th Olympics at London on Thursday. Bolt rallies round for Jamaican eventer

Usain Bolt raced to the rescue to help fellow-Jamaican Samantha Albert on the long and tortuous road to the London Olympics. The triple Olympic sprint champion donated and signed three of his designer running shirts.

Britain may call in more troops to police Games

Britain may have to call up yet more soldiers to police the Olympic Games, the government said on Wednesday, after a failed private sector recruitment drive left an embarrassing hole in security and dashed London's dreams of a spotless showcase.

Australian badminton players get food poisoning
Three Australian badminton players were confined to bed on Wednesday after suffering food poisoning while preparing for the London Olympics at their training base in the central English city of Derby.

July 18, 2012

HC seeks Kalmadi's reply to plea on his London visit
The Delhi high court on Wednesday sought a reply from sacked Commonwealth Games Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi on a plea to stop him from going to London for the 2012 Olympics, and asked him not to advance his slated July 26 departure for it. Schleck denies wrongdoing, requests B sample test
Luxembourg rider Frank Schleck has denied any wrongdoing after he was withdrawn from the Tour de France on Tuesday when he returned a positive test for the diuretic Xipamide following Saturday's Stage 13. Impressive Blake lays down marker for Bolt

World 100 metres champion Yohan Blake showed he was in good heart to challenge compatriot Usain Bolt for Olympic sprint dominance in London by clocking 9.85 seconds to win at a meeting in Lucerne on Tuesday.

Indian athletes lose doping case, get two-year ban

Indian athletics' biggest doping scandal involving six top women runners, including three Asian and Commonwealth Games gold medallists, ended with the Switzerland-based Court of Arbitration for Sports handing them an enhanced ban of two years.

Frank Schleck out of race after failed dope test

The Tour de France was rocked on Tuesday when Luxembourg's Frank Schleck, third overall in last year's race, was pulled out of the 2012 edition after failing a dope test for a diuretic.

July 17, 2012

Games organisers withdraw 500,000 football tickets
Half a million tickets for Olympic football matches have been withdrawn and stadium capacities reduced due to a lack of take-up, Games organisers said on Tuesday. 'We can't stop Kalmadi from attending London Olympics'
Suresh Kalmadi might be facing intense pressure from various quarters to cancel his London Olympics trip, but the International Athletics Federation said that it is not going to stop him from attending the IAAF Council meeting in the British capital. Flag-bearer Sushil not thinking of medals at Olympics

Doing an encore in London is not something that Sushil Kumar wants to lose his sleep over, but the Beijing Olympics bronze medallist has promised to put in the hard yards to ensure a podium finish in the upcoming Olympics.

Gowda determined to shine in London despite money crunch

Ace discuss thrower Vikas Gowda says he is neither "distracted" by the scarcity of funds nor intimidated by the higher rankings of his rivals as the recent good results at the international stage have given him the confidence of delivering at the London Olympics.

Olympic flame to visit London palaces and castles

The Olympic torch will share the same security as the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London on its first night in the capital on Friday before embarking on a week-long journey that will take in religious, political and royal landmarks.

First look: Indian archers, lifters at the Games Village

Beijing Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra was the first Indian shooter to enter the London Olympic Games Village along with the 10-member archery squad and a four-member weightlifting squad.

Manchester United lead Forbes' most valuable team list

English soccer club Manchester United retained their title as the world's most valuable sports team, according to an annual top 50 list released by Forbes on Monday that was dominated by National Football League (NFL) franchises.

July 16, 2012

IOC happy with security despite G4S glitch

Safety levels for the London Olympics have not been compromised by a major security contractor's failure to find enough staff, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) said on Monday, less than two weeks before the Games begin.

Confident Deepika not afraid of Olympic 'ghost'

All of 18, she is World No 1 and India's biggest hope for an Olympic medal but Deepika Kumari is far from intimidated by the burden of expectations as she feels the London Games are not some kind of a 'ghost' to be scared of.

Triple jumper Maheshwary aims for top-six finish at Games

His build-up to the Olympics was far from ideal but triple jumper Renjith Maheshwary says that he has left behind the frustrations and is now focussing on at least qualifying for the final round in the London Games if not a podium finish.

Political infighting threatens Pakistan hopes at Olympics
A dispute between the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) and the state-operated Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) could threaten the country's participation in London 2012, the head of the POA said on Sunday. India's Jeev Milkha Singh wins Scottish Open in playoff

Jeev Milkha Singh won the Scottish Open after a playoff with Italy's Francesco Molinari on Sunday while Britain's Marc Warren blew a three-shot lead with four holes to play.

July 15, 2012

Tour de France: Sanchez wins puncture marred 14th stage

Luis Leon Sanchez broke away on his own to clinch the fourth Tour de France victory of his career in the 191.5-km 14th stage on Sunday.

ONGC announces Rs 25 lakh for Olympic gold medallists
The ONGC announced a cash bonanza for players who will win medals at the London Olympics with gold medal winners to get Rs 25 lakh while silver and bronze medallist will get Rs 15 and Rs 10 lakh respectively. Briton Khan knocked out in fourth round by Garcia

American Danny Garcia knocked out Britain's Amir Khan in the fourth round to add the WBA light-welterweight crown to his WBC super-lightweight title in Las Vegas on Saturday.

Haye defeats Chisora in British heavyweight grudge match

Former world heavyweight champion David Haye knocked fellow Briton Dereck Chisora to the canvas twice in the fifth round to win their grudge match in pouring rain at Upton Park in east London on Saturday.

Coach allays injury doubts over China's Liu

Liu Xiang's pullout from the final of the 110 metres hurdles at the London Grand Prix on Friday was just a precautionary measure and the back problem that forced the withdrawal does not pose any threat to his Olympic campaign, his coach said.

Lorenzo cruises to Italian MotoGP win
Yamaha's Jorge Lorenzo easily won the Italian MotoGP on Sunday, stretching his advantage at the top of the riders' championship with an assured performance. 'No games security threat despite guards fiasco'

London's Olympic Games is not threatened by a major security contractor's failure to find enough staff, ministers and the head of the city's organising committee said on Sunday, seeking to quell a political storm ahead of athletes' arrival.

Sushil to be India's flag-bearer at Olympics

Ending days of speculation, the Indian Olympic Association on Sunday announced that wrestler Sushil Kumar, a bronze medallist at the Beijing Games, will be the flag bearer of the Indian contingent at the upcoming London Olympics.

India's lone judoka Garima confident of good show
Going by statistics, it will be very difficult for India's lone judoka Garima Chaudhary to even end up with a top-five finish leave alone a medal at the London Olympics. Tension between MEA, Sports Ministry over Chinese visa denial
Chinese visa denial to an Arunachal Pradesh youth delegate has created a friction between the Ministry of External Affairs and the Sports Ministry. 'Doping menace more rampant among junior athletes'
Doping is more rampant among junior athletes than top ranked ones and the National Anti-Doping Agency should "tighten the screws" to curb the menace, Athletics Federation of India president Adille J Sumariwalla said on Sunday. India go down 1-3 to Great Britain in Tri-Nation hockey
India squandered an early lead before going down 1-3 to Great Britain in the inaugural match of the Tri-Nation invitational tournament, their final warm-up event ahead of the Olympic Games in Santander, Spain.

July 14, 2012

Won't react to corrupt person's allegation: Maken

Sports Minister Ajay Maken has declined to comment on Suresh Kalmadi's accusation of carrying out a vilification campaign against him, saying that he would not like to respond to a person who has been chargesheeted by the CBI.

High jumper Vlasic ruled out of Olympics

Former high jump world champion Blanka Vlasic will not compete in the London Olympics due to injury problems, the Croatian said on her website on Saturday.

Kalmadi not a member of IOA delegation: IOA
Indian Olympic Association sought to steer clear of the controversy over tainted Suresh Kalmadi attending the London Olympic Games, saying that he was not a member of IOA delegation. Miffed Kalmadi demands Maken's resignation

Faced with mounting pressure to drop his Olympic trip to London, a defiant Suresh Kalmadi has hit back at Ajay Maken, accusing the Sports Minister of carrying out a vilification campaign against him and called for his resignation.

London Diamond athletics: Gay sprints to 100m victory

Tyson Gay got a taste of the tough conditions the world's best sprinters may face at the Olympics next month while winning the 100 metres in 10.03 seconds at the London Diamond League meeting on Friday.

'Indian paddlers not among favourites in Olympics'
India's foreign table tennis coach Leszek Kucharski feels Olympic-bound paddlers Soumyajit Ghosh and Ankita Das can spring a few surprises but they are not among the favourites to win a medal in the London Games. G4S security boss sorry for Games guards fiasco

The head of private security firm G4S said on Saturday his firm only realised just over a week ago it would not be able to supply enough venue guards for this month's London Olympics, as he publicly apologised for the embarrassing failure.

Athletics coach supports Kalmadi's trip to Olympics

Suresh Kalmadi's planned trip to the London Olympics might have triggered a furore but national athletics coach Bahadur Singh feels the tainted administrator's presence would 'encourage' the athletes.

July 13, 2012

'Don't facilitate Kalmadi's visit to London'
In a bid to prevent Suresh Kalmadi from attending the London Olympics, the Sports Ministry shot off a letter to IOA, requesting the sports body not to facilitate the tainted administrator's visit to UK on "ethical grounds". Tour de France: Composed Millar claims fourth win
Briton David Millar showed composure to claim his fourth Tour de France stage win when he prevailed in the 12th stage, a 226-km ride from St Jean de Maurienne on Friday. Mariano appointed Churchill Brothers' head coach
Mariano Dias has signed for Churchill Brothers as head coach for the upcoming season in place of Carlos Pareira. Champions League flop proves costly for Manchester Utd
Manchester United's early exit from the Champions League last season cost the English club almost 17 million euros in payments from UEFA compared with the previous year, figures released on Friday showed. CSI upset with court's decision to let Kalmadi visit London
Clean Sports India (CSI), a movement for corruption-free sports in the country, on Friday, expressed disappointment at Delhi court's decision to allow sacked CWG Organising Committee chief Suresh Kalmadi, accused in a Games-related graft case, to go to the London Olympics. Maken says Kalmadi should not go to Olympics
Sports Minister Ajay Maken on Friday said though sacked CWG Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi, accused in a Games-related graft case, has been allowed by a Delhi Court to go to London for the upcoming Olympic Games, he should voluntarily desist from going to the mega event. Court allows Kalmadi to visit London for Olympics
Sacked Commonwealth Games Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi, accused in a Games-related graft case, was on Friday allowed by a Delhi court to go to London for the 2012 Olympics. Olympics put British spy agencies under pressure
Preparations for the London Olympics have put Britain's intelligence agencies under significant pressure, as the country stages its largest ever peacetime security operation, British lawmakers said on Thursday.

July 12, 2012

'No question of Olympic security being compromised'

Britain's interior minister had to answer questions in parliament on Thursday after admitting that she was putting extra troops on standby for Olympic security, just two weeks before the London Games begin, because a private contractor might not meet its commitments.

Kalmadi moves court to attend London Olympics

Sacked CWG Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi, accused in a games-related graft case, sought a Delhi court's permission to attend the 2012 Olympics in London.

Cash bonanza awaits medal-winning boxers at Olympics

A cash bonanza awaits Indian boxers if they notch up medals at the London Olympics.

Paddler Ghosh readying himself for Olympic challenge
Soumyajit Ghosh's qualification for the London Olympics has taken everyone by surprise. But the Siliguri paddler knows that it will not be a stroll in the park when it comes down to facing European and Chinese giants in London. British boxer Amir Khan reinstated as WBA champion
Britain's Amir Khan has had his WBA super-lightweight title reinstated ahead of his fight against WBC champion Danny Garcia in Las Vegas, the governing body said on Wednesday. Eusebio discharged from hospital after stroke in Poland

Former Portugal and Benfica great Eusebio, who suffered a stroke during his stay in Poland to watch Euro 2012, was discharged from a Lisbon hospital on Wednesday, the hospital said.

Dow link tarnishes Games' reputation: London Assembly

London politicians called on Olympic officials to rethink their sponsorship contract with Dow Chemical on Wednesday, saying the company's links to the 1984 Bhopal disaster damaged the reputation of this month's Games.

July 11, 2012

Maheshwary cleared for Olympics
Triple jumper Renjith Maheshwary has been cleared for Olympics after he passed a fitness trial at his training base in Italy, Athletics Federation of India said. Tour de France: Voeckler wins 10th stage, Wiggins in lead
France's Thomas Voeckler won the 194.5km 10th stage of the Tour de France between Macon and Bellegarde sur Valserine on Wednesday. Para-athlete Sachdeva banned for doping
Para athlete Hitesh Sachdeva has been banned from competing in the London Paralympics after being caught for doping. Indian challenge ends in World Junior Squash C'ships
Indian challenge in the World Junior Squash Championships came to an end as Mahesh Mangaonkar and Anaka Alankamony lost their respective quarter-final matches to Egyptian rivals in the men's and women's competition at Doha. Pinki alleges police atrocities on her in custody
Asian Games gold medallist Pinki Pramanik, who walked out of jail on Wednesday after spending 26 days in custody on charges of rape, alleged that the police tied her hands and legs and forcibly conducted the gender determination test on her. London Games would be most dope tested in history: WADA
The London Olympics is all set to go down in history as the most dope tested Games with more than 6,000 samples expected to be analysed, the World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) has said. Australia send smallest team since 1992 to London
Australia is sending its smallest team to a Summer Olympics since the 1992 Games, with 410 athletes set to compete in London with the goal of a top five finish on the medals table. Armstrong refiles lawsuit against anti-doping agency
Lawyers for retired cycling champ Lance Armstrong on Tuesday refiled a lawsuit in a bid to stop the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) from proceeding with a case charging him with using drugs during the years he won the Tour de France. I have been framed, says athlete Pinki
Asian Games gold medalist Pinki Pramanik walked out of jail after 26 days on Wednesday and said she was falsely implicated in the rape case. She was arrested after a woman charged that the athlete was male and had raped her. Al Wasl sack Diego Maradona

Former Argentina World Cup-winning captain Diego Maradona has been sacked as coach of United Arab Emirates club Al Wasl.

Women outnumber men on London-bound US team
The United States will send 530 athletes to the London Olympics as part of a massive team that will feature, for the first time, more women competitors than men, officials announced on Tuesday. Kuwaiti family buys Nottingham Forest
A Kuwaiti family has bought twice European Cup winners Nottingham Forest, the English Championship (second division) club said on Tuesday. Mourinho's Super Cup ban for eye poke lifted

A two-match ban given to Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho for poking Barcelona assistant Tito Vilanova in the eye has been lifted as part of a general amnesty, the Spanish soccer federation (RFEF) said on Tuesday.

July 10, 2012

IOC chief backs Games food and drinks sponsors

McDonald's, whose four restaurants in London's Olympic Park include its biggest in the world, extended its 36-year backing of the Games in January by signing up as sponsor for another eight years.

'Pinki is innocent and a victim of conspiracy'
Hailing the court's decision to grant bail to Asian Games gold medallist Pinki Pramanik, the Bengal sports fraternity on Tuesday demanded punishment for those who are guilty of mistreating the athlete. NBA star Raja Bell to visit India

The NBA, which opened its first office in Mumbai in October last year, has hosted more than 450 basketball development events in India since 2008 as part of the league's effort to grow basketball.

Pinki gets bail after 25 days in custody
Asian Games gold medalist Pinki Pramanik, arrested after a woman charged that the athlete was a male and had raped her, was on Tuesday granted bail by a court in North 24 Parganas district after spending 25 days in judicial custody. Martin quits Tour de France to concentrate on Olympics
World time trial champion Tony Martin has quit the Tour de France in order to let a broken bone in his wrist heal in time for the London Olympics. China picks young gun over Wang in badminton team
China has omitted Asian Games singles champion Wang Shixian from their Olympic badminton team and picked 21-year-old talent Li Xuerui as the third and final entrant in the women's singles at the London Games. Poonia and Gowda, torch bearers of scandal-hit athletes

Hit hard by one of the biggest doping scandals in the run-up to the Olympic Games, India's athletics team, including a couple of medal hopefuls, would hope to seek solace and redeem their reputation with some strong performances in London.

Armstrong suit against anti-doping agency hits roadblock

A federal judge swiftly dismissed a lawsuit on Monday that retired cycling champ Lance Armstrong had filed in a bid to stop the US Anti-Doping Agency from proceeding with a case charging him with using drugs during the years he won the Tour de France.

Man City manager Mancini agrees new five-year deal

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has agreed a new five-year contract with the Premier League champions, the club announced.

John Terry appears in court on racial abuse charge

Former England soccer captain John Terry appeared in court on Monday charged with racially abusing Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand during a Premier League match in October.

July 09, 2012

South Korean Park Ji-sung joins QPR
South Korean midfielder Park Ji-sung has joined Queens Park Rangers from Premier League rivals Manchester United on a two-year contract, the west London club said on Monday. India edge out South Africa 6-5 in the third test

The Indian hockey team defeated South Africa 6-5 in a thrilling third test at the capital city of Cantabria in Spain.

Report of chromosome pattern test of Pinki ready
The chromosome pattern test report (Karyotyping) of Asian Games gold medalist Pinki Pramanik to determine her gender was on Monday received and would be sent to a court at Barasat in North 24-Parganas district on Tuesday. Germany field smallest Olympic team since reunification
Germany will field their smallest Olympic team since the country's reunification in 1990 at this month's London Games after nominating 391 athletes, the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) said on Monday. Mixed day for India at World Jr. squash
Newly-crowned Asian Junior champion Anaka Alankamony registered an easy second round victory at the World Junior men and women individual Squash Championships in Doha. Youngest rider wins eighth stage of Tour de France

Thibaut Pinot, the youngest rider in the Tour de France, presented the French with their first stage victory in this year's edition after winning the hilly 157.5 kms Belfort-Porrentruy eighth stage.

Deschamps named France coach
Didier Deschamps has been appointed France coach, the French football federation said in a statement on Sunday. Nigeria snatch final London basketball berth
Nigeria will make their Olympic basketball debut in London after beating the Dominican Republic 88-73 in the decisive qualifier on Sunday. Wrestler Amit hopes surprise factor favours him in London
He might lack the experience of competing at the highest level, but Amit Kumar, the youngest member of the Indian wrestling contingent, believes that this can work in his favour at the London Olympics. Sinimole misses Olympic berth again
India's middle distance runner Sinimole Paulose's last ditch effort to qualify for the London Olympics failed to meet expectations after she finished second in the women's 1500m at the Savo Games in Lapinlahti, Finland.

July 08, 2012

Deschamps set to be named France coach
Didier Deschamps is on the verge of being appointed France coach, a source on the executive board of the French football federation said on Sunday. Pedrosa wins German MotoGP after Stoner crashes
Dani Pedrosa won the German MotoGP in dramatic circumstances on Sunday after his Honda team mate Casey Stoner, who started in pole position crashed out of the race on the last lap of the Sachsenring. Olympics can learn from Formula One: Rogge
IOC President Jacques Rogge visited a rainswept Silverstone on Sunday and suggested the Olympics could learn a lot from Formula One. Klitschko stops Thompson in round six

Vladimir Klitschko retained his world heavyweight titles when he knocked down challenger Tony Thompson in the sixth round of a one-sided contest on Saturday.

Giggs to captain Britain's Olympic football team

Ryan Giggs will captain Britain's football team at the London Olympics, head coach Stuart Pearce said on Sunday.

LeBron, Kobe return to US team for London Games

Five members of the gold medal winning line-up at the 2008 Beijing Games were included in the 12-man US Olympic basketball team announced by USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo on Saturday.

Atwal slips to 71st in US PGA
India's Arjun Atwal may have survived the cut, but he dropped further down to tied 71st position at the end of the third round of Greenbrier Classic golf tournament in White Sulphur Springs, USA. Misfiring India lose second hockey Test against Spain

A misfiring India squandered chances and conceded a late goal to go down 1-2 to hosts Spain in the second hockey Test in Santander.

Tour de France: Nibali emerges as clear third man

All the talk before the Tour de France was about the battle between favourite Bradley Wiggins and defending champion Cadel Evans, with neutrals hoping for a 'third man' to appear from the pack and make the race more interesting.

Preeja, Kavita fail to qualify for Olympics
Asian Games medallists Preeja Sreedharan's and Kavita Raut's Olympic dreams came crashing down after they failed to make the cut for London in the 10,000m at the FIDAL Piedmont Track Meeting at Santhia, Italy. Allmendinger suspended after failed drug test
Stock car driver AJ Allmendinger has been temporarily suspended after failing a drug test, NASCAR officials said on Saturday.

July 07, 2012

Shuttler Sindhu wins Asia Under-19 Championship
Rising India shuttler P V Sindhu clinched the Asia Youth Under-19 Championship title with a thrilling three-game victory over Japan's Okuhara Nozomi at Gimcheon, Korea on Saturday. Sujjan scores first title win outside India
Sujjan Singh completed a start-to-finish victory with an even-par 72 at the Taman Dayu Championship and immediately dedicated his win to his new-born daughter on Saturday. India gets Oly berth in swimming
India has been granted an Olympic berth in swimming with the world body FINA springing a surprise by choosing Karnataka swimmer Gagan AP Ulalmath in the men's 1,500m freestyle. Atwal makes cut, Tiger and Mickelson miss out

Indian golfer Arjun Atwal sank a tense 13-foot putt for a birdie on the 18th hole to squeeze inside the cutline but the two big names of the event Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson missed the cut at the Greenbrier Classic in White Sulphur Springs, USA.

Nigeria stun Greece to move closer to London Games
Double European champions Greece made a shock exit from the Olympic basketball qualifiers on Friday following a narrow 80-79 defeat against Nigeria. Sudha fails in Olympics 'A' standard attempt
Asian Games gold-medallist Sudha Singh ran a below par 9:53.94s to finish fifth in women's 3,000m steeplechase in the Bottrop Gala International Meet in Germany. AFC bans Ishfaq for four matches
The disciplinary committee of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has imposed a four match ban on Salgaocar Sports Club midfielder Ishfaq Ahmed. Van Gaal gets second stint as Netherlands coach
Netherlands have re-appointed Louis van Gaal as coach in place of Bert van Marwijk who stepped down after the team lost all three group matches at Euro 2012 last month, the FA said on Friday. India badly needs a hockey medal in London: Ignace

With no major triumph to show in the last 32 years, erstwhile hockey powerhouse India badly needs a medal in the London Olympics to revive the national sport's interest in the cricket-crazy nation, feels veteran mid-fielder Ignace Tirkey.

Gay beats Gatlin, Bekele's hopes dashed

Tyson Gay beat fellow American Justin Gatlin in the 100 metres while Kenenisa Bekele's Olympic hopes were diluted at the Paris Diamond League meeting on Friday as five world season's best were set on the Stade de France track.

Woods, Mickelson to miss cut; Simpson leads

Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson were set to miss the cut as US Open champion Webb Simpson moved one stroke clear in Friday's second round of the weather-delayed Greenbrier Classic at White Sulphur Springs in West Virginia.

Indian rowers face tough task in London Olympics
Set for their fourth Olympics in a row, the Indian rowers face a tough test but would look to show that they do not just make up the numbers in the London Games beginning July 27.

July 06, 2012

Tour de France: Sagan beats Greipel for third stage victory

Tour de France debutant Peter Sagan took his third win of this year's race with a sprint finish in a crash-ridden sixth stage in Metz on Friday.

FIFA lift ban on Islamic headscarves

The move came after a campaign in favour of the hijab from FIFA vice-president and executive committee member Prince Ali Bin Al-Hussein of Jordan.

Unprecedented demand for accreditations leaves IOA in a fix
Indian Olympic Association has been left in a fix due to unprecedented demand for accreditations and tickets for London Olympics from various quarters, including ministers from various states and sports ministry officials. Koevermans names 37 probables for Nehru Cup

National coach Wim Koevermans has named 37 players for the preparatory camp for the Nehru Cup football tournament, which kicks off on August 23.

Greipel wins second Tour stage in a row

Andre Greipel silenced the doubters with his second back-to-back bunch sprint victory in the fifth stage of the Tour de France cycling race on Thursday.

Runners Sinimole, Joseph fail to qualify for Olympics
Indian middle distance runners Sinimole Paulose and Sajeesh Joseph's Olympic dreams came crashing down as both of them failed to make the cut for London at the Folksam Sollentuna Grand Prix in Stockholm, Sweden.

July 05, 2012

Greipel takes Tour stage as Cavendish crashes
German Andre Greipel won the fourth stage of the Tour de France on Wednesday after world champion Mark Cavendish crashed close to the finish and was unable to contest the final sprint.

July 04, 2012

Human Rights panel wants probe into 'inhuman torture' on Pinki
The West Bengal Human Rights Commission has directed the home, health and police departments to inquire into the alleged 'inhuman torture' on Asiad gold medalist Pinki Pramanik in police and jail custody and submit a report within two weeks. Kashyap hopeful of good show at Olympics

Placed 22nd in the world rankings P Kashyap is aware of the tough challenge that awaits him in the upcoming Olympics, but the ace Indian shuttler still feels he has a good chance of finishing on the podium in London, courtesy his recent good showings on international stage.

July 03, 2012

Britain select two former drug offenders in Olympic team

Sprinter Dwain Chambers and shot putter Carl Myerscough, who have served doping bans after testing positive for anabolic steroids, were named on Tuesday in the British athletics team for the London Olympics.

Andre Villas-Boas named Tottenham Hotspur manager

Andre Villas-Boas has signed a three-year contract as manager of Tottenham Hotspur, the Premier League club said on Tuesday.

Aditya made to toil in World 6-Red Championship
India's Aditya Mehta had to toil hard for his second win against Thailand's Thanawat Thirapongpaiboon in the SangSom World 6-Red snooker championship in Bangkok. China panics over meat-free diet for athletes

Chinese coaches and officials are panicking that meat-free diets imposed on Olympic athletes outside their training camps are hampering their performances in the lead-up to the London Games.

Hoy to be first Australian at seven Summer Games

Andrew Hoy is set to become the first Australian to compete at seven Summer Olympics after being named in the equestrian eventing team for the London Games on Tuesday.

Tower of London guards Olympic treasure

The Tower of London, used by British monarchs for over 600 years to hoard crowns and jewels, took delivery of its newest treasure on Monday when 4,700 gold, silver and bronze Olympic medals were handed over for safe-keeping.

US trials 'weird' for retired Johnson

So close and yet so far removed, four-time Olympic medalist Shawn Johnson found last week's US trials in San Jose a 'weird' experience after watching her former team mates from the sidelines.

Torres narrowly misses out on London Games

Dara Torres announced her retirement from swimming after she came up agonisingly short in her bid to make the United States team for the London Olympics on the last day of the trials on Monday.

July 02, 2012

Cavendish wins Tour de France second stage
Briton Mark Cavendish snatched his 21st Tour de France stage win when he prevailed in a bunch sprint at the end of a 207.5-kilometres ride. Sammer replaces Nerlinger as Bayern sports boss
Bayern Munich have appointed former Germany international Matthias Sammer as their sports director after parting ways with Christian Nerlinger following two seasons without a trophy, the Bavarians said on Monday. Hamilton set to shine with Olympic torch run

Next Monday will be a day to remember for Lewis Hamilton, regardless of who wins his home British Grand Prix the day before.

Kalou and Bosingwa leave Chelsea

Salomon Kalou and Jose Bosingwa, who featured in Chelsea's Champions League final win over Bayern Munich in May, have left the London club.

Sagan wins first stage in first Tour de France

While the yellow jersey positions hardly moved, Briton Bradley Wiggins being content with staying out of trouble to retain his second place - seven seconds behind.

Woods moves up on winners list with AT&T victory

Tiger Woods overtook Jack Nicklaus in second place on the all-time PGA Tour winners list when he captured the AT&T National tournament at the Congressional Country Club on Sunday.

Blake outruns Bolt in 200m Olympic trials

Yohan Blake set himself up as the man to beat in London with a stunning 200 meters victory, beating world record holder Usain Bolt for a second time in three days to bring the Jamaican Olympic trials to an explosive conclusion on Sunday.

July 01, 2012

Indian boxers get acclimatisation lessons in Ireland

He was not quite sure if training abroad before Olympics would help much but after spending a fortnight preparing in Ireland, London-bound Vijender Singh said the experience has done a world of good to the Indian boxers ahead of the mega-event this month.

India beat France 4-0, pocket Test series 2-0

India overcame a defensive France 4-0 to make a clean sweep in the two-match friendly Test series here ahead of next month's London Olympics.

Kanoute latest big name to head for China

China's growing popularity as the preferred destination for ageing former English Premier League players shows no sign of slowing with striker Frederic Kanoute completing a move to Beijing Guoan, the Chinese Super League side said.

Stoner wins to pull level with Lorenzo
Australian Casey Stoner ran away with the Dutch GP on Saturday to go level with Yamaha's Jorge Lorenzo at the top of the MotoGP championship after the Spaniard was taken out at the first corner.

June 30, 2012

U.S. Anti-Doping Agency to charge Armstrong

The U.S. Anti-Doping Agency's review board have unanimously recommended charging seven-times Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong with using performance-enhancing drugs during his record-breaking career, USADA said on Friday.

Yohan Blake shocks Usain Bolt to claim 100m title

Yohan Blake delivered a shock that will be felt all the way to London by exploding past world record holder Usain Bolt to claim a stunning 100 metres victory at the Jamaican Olympic trials on Friday.

June 29, 2012

Balotelli brace sends Italy into final

Italy extended their remarkable stranglehold on Germany when two superb first-half goals by Mario Balotelli gave them a 2-1 win in an excellent Euro 2012 semi-final on Thursday and a place in Sunday's final against Spain.

India show character to hold UAE

Down by an early Jamal Ibrahim goal, as early as the 9th minute, India came back strongly to hold UAE 1-1 in the Under-22 AFC Championship at the Royal Oman Police Stadium in Muscat. After a barrage of attacks on the rival citadel, Romeo Fernandes restored parity in the 88th minute.

June 28, 2012

Rameez Raja launches attack on Mohsin Khan
Former Pakistan Test captain Rameez Raja has backed the decision to remove Mohsin Khan as the chief coach of the national team and made some scathing remarks about him on his twitter page. Tottenham closer to new manager as Redknapp staff depart
Tottenham Hotspur's assistant coaches Joe Jordan and Kevin Bond have officially left the club, Spurs announced on Thursday, signalling that the Premier League side are edging closer to appointing a new manager. Jeev takes early lead at Irish Open
Indian golfer Jeev Milkha Singh turned in a stunning seven-under 65 to grab the lead after the opening round in the star-studded Irish Open in Portrush, Northern Ireland, on Thursday. Phelps turns tables on Lochte to win 200m freestyle

Michael Phelps turned the tables on his great rival Ryan Lochte to win the 200 metres freestyle final at the US Olympic trials on Wednesday and remain on course for another massive haul at the London Games.

Spain beat Portugal on penalties, reach final

Cesc Fabregas struck the winning spot kick as holders Spain beat Portugal 4-2 on penalties after their Euro 2012 semi-final ended goalless after extra time on Wednesday.

June 27, 2012

Judo player accuses coach of raping her
A national level judo player was repeatedly raped allegedly by her coach, who is absconding after the registration of a case. ICC calls for global life ban on Kaneria
The ICC Board unanimously acknowledged the lifetime ban on Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria by the England and Wales Cricket Board for his role in the English spot-fixing scandal and urged member nations to enforce the verdict to the fullest. Indian paddlers to train in China ahead of Olympics
With just a month left for the London Games, Olympic-bound Indian paddlers Soumyajit Ghosh and Ankita Das will leave for Zhengding, China on Sunday for a 16-day long training camp. London moves into final month of Olympics preparations

London moved into the final month of preparations for its Olympic Games on Wednesday with a new landmark to greet visitors, and a warning that some others would not be welcome.

Bolt will have it tough at the Olympics: Greene

Jamaican triple Olympic champion Usain Bolt will not emulate his world record performances of 2008 and 2009 at the London Games, former holder Maurice Greene predicted on Tuesday.

June 26, 2012

Russia eyeing third place in London medals table
Russia are aiming to repeat their third place finish in the medals table at Beijing in 2008 when the squad competes at next month's London Olympics, Sports Minister Vitaly Mutko said on Tuesday. IOA gives advance payment to London bound athletes
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has paid advance installment of Rs one lakh to the hockey players who left for European tour on their way to the London Games. US swimmer Lochte beats Phelps to qualify for Olympics

Ryan Lochte reaffirmed his status as the world's best all round swimmer when he beat Michael Phelps at the US Olympic swimming trials on Monday to book his spot on the American team for London.

June 25, 2012

Asian Games gold medallist Abraham beaten in 400m hurdles
Asian Games gold medallist Joseph Abraham's hopes of qualifying for London Olympics were virtually dashed as he finished second in the men's 400m hurdles on the third day of the National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships in Hyderabad on Monday. Saudi says will enter women for London Olympics

Saudi Arabia will allow its women athletes to compete in the Olympic Games for the first time ever in London this summer, the Islamic kingdom's London embassy said.

Archery WC: India lose to US, settle for silver
Having secured the Olympic berth in the men's team event, India narrowly lost to hosts US under gusty wind conditions in Ogden (USA) to settle for a silver medal and conclude their campaign in the Archery World Cup Stage III. Mystery over Pinki's gender continues
The mystery over the gender of Asian Games gold medallist Pinki Pramanik continued as the karyotyping test to determine the chromosome pattern could not be held at the state's referral SSKM Hospital. An 11-member medical team on Monday conducted various tests on the long-distance runner at the SSKM hospital but the most crucial one to determine the gender still could not be held. Gatlin secures London return ahead of Gay

Eight years after winning Olympic gold and two years after concluding a doping ban, Justin Gatlin secured his return to the Games by running an eye-catching 9.80 seconds to win the 100 metres at the US Olympic trials on Sunday.

June 24, 2012

US trials: Eaton sets decathlon World record

Ashton Eaton set a glittering decathlon world record at the US Olympic trials on Saturday, riding the cheers of a thrilled home crowd to upstage a stellar cast of athletes.

Largest Olympic contingent will bring more medals: SAI
SAI Director General, Desh Deepak Verma exuded confidence that Indian athletes will win more medals in this edition of Olympics as the country is fielding the largest contingent at the London Games.

June 23, 2012

India's U-17 football World Cup bid on track: AIFF
India's preparations for a formal bid to stage the prestigious 2017 Under 17 Football World Cup is in the final stages with only the security clearance left from the hosting states, AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das said on Saturday. India breeze past Lebanon in AFC Under-22

India opened their campaign by defeating Lebanon 5-2 in the opening match of the AFC U-22 Championship at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex, Muscat on Saturday.

Football legend Chuni slams AITA for buckling
Indian football legend Chuni Goswami slammed the AITA for not acting firm against Mahesh Bhupathi and Rohan Bopanna in the Olympics doubles team selection row and said some action should be taken against them. Germany's Loew fuming over mole in the camp

Germany coach Joachim Loew is out to unearth a mole in the camp who has been tipping off German media about his starting lineups at Euro 2012, the players said on Saturday.

June 22, 2012

Shed personal egos and bring medal: Krishna to players
External Affairs Minister S M Krishna on Friday appealed to the bickering Indian tennis players to shed "individual egos" and instead play to bring laurels for the country in London Olympics. Indian eves leave for Jr Asia Cup
Ritu Rani-led Indian junior women's hockey team today left for Bangkok to participate in the sixth Junior Women Asia Cup to be held from June 27 to July 7. Syria's Olympic chief refused London visa
The head of Syria's National Olympic Committee, General Mowaffak Joumaa, has been refused a visa to travel to attend next month's Games in London, the BBC said on Friday. Jwala-Diju crash out of Singapore Open
Olympic-bound shuttlers Jwala Gutta and V Diju on Friday crashed out of the Singapore Open Super Series -- their last tournament before London Olympics -- after going down fighting to second seeds Hung Ling Chen and Wen Hsing Cheng of Chinese Taipei in a thrilling three-game quarterfinal match. Athletes rue lack of food standards at Olympic camp

Few days after the Sports Authority of India transferred two of its officials for serving rotten fruits to the Olympic-bound wrestling team, the campers complained that poor standards of food still persisted at the SAI centre in Sonepat.

India has best chance to win Olympics archery medal: AAI
With India set to compete in all four archery events of next month's London Olympics after the men's team made the cut, the country has the best chance to win a medal and script history, Archery Association Secretary General Paresh Nath Mukherjee said on Friday. Sprinter Gay ready to overcome pain-filled year

Tyson Gay is sleeping well these days, and that is a good sign. The pain of a year in which America's best sprinter did not make it to the track until a couple months ago because of hip surgery is slowly subsiding and Gay can turn his attention to making the US team for the London Olympics in the 100 meters.

Germany have lucky charm Merkel for Greece match

The presence of German chancellor Angela Merkel at her country's Euro 2012 quarter-final against Greece in Gdansk on Friday could upset the underdogs in more ways than one.

Indian Men's Archery team secure Olympic berth
Indian men's archery team comprising Tarundeep Rai, Jayanta Talukdar and Rahul Banerjee secured Olympic berth beating Australians in the qualifiers at Ogden, US, on Friday. NBA: Miami beat Oklahoma City to clinch title

The Miami Heat demolished the Oklahoma City Thunder 121-106 on Thursday to win the National Basketball Association championship 4-1, sweeping the last four games of the series.

Smoking helps me think, says Greece coach Santos

Greece coach Fernando Santos will devise his tactical masterplan to upset Germany in the quarter-finals of Euro 2012 in a cloud of smoke after stating on Thursday that he thinks clearer when puffing away on a cigarette.

Defence was our only option, says Czech coach

Czech Republic's Michal Bilek banked on a defensive strategy to keep Portugal at bay on Thursday but they ran out of steam and it was a matter of time before their Cristiano Ronaldo-inspired opponents capitalised.

Portugal just need to believe to reach final: Ronaldo

Portugal have an even chance of reaching the Euro 2012 final after a dominant second-half performance against the Czech Republic on Thursday eased them into the last four, forward Cristiano Ronaldo said.

June 21, 2012

Singapore Open: Jwala-Diju in last eight
The Olympics-bound Indian mixed doubles pair of Jwala Gutta and V Diju defeated the Malaysian duo of Aik Quan Tan and Pei Jing Lai in straight games to reach the quarter-finals of the Singapore Super Series on Thursday. The sixth seeded pair won 21-15, 21-15 in a little less that 30 minutes.

June 20, 2012

Kashyap suffers first round defeat at Singapore Open
Olympics-bound Parupalli Kashyap lost in the first round, as Indian shuttlers endured a mixed opening day at the Singapore Open, on Wednesday. Kashyap, who shocked top seed Chen Long of China in straight games to make the last eight of the Indonesia Super Series before losing in the semis, was beaten 12-21, 18-21 by second seed Hyun Il Lee of Korea in 37 minutes. Heat beat Thunder to move one win from NBA title
The Miami Heat beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 104-98 on Tuesday to take a 3-1 lead in the NBA Finals and move within one victory of claiming the National Basketball Association title.

June 19, 2012

Pinki Pramanik's gender test inconclusive
The gender of Asian Games gold medalist Pinki Pramanik could not be established at the Barasat General Hospital, as it does not have the facility. The case may be referred to the better equipped SSKM Hospital in Kolkata.

June 18, 2012

Indian paddlers sweep SAG Junior TT Championship
Indian junior paddlers on Monday made a sweep of the team titles in all the four categories of boys and girls, in the ongoing 12th SAF Junior Table Tennis Championships held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Sports Complex indoor stadium in Shillong. Bendtner banned, fined 100,000 euros for pants stunt

Denmark strikerBendtner has been banned for one match and fined 100,000 euros for revealing the logo of a betting company on his underpants while celebrating a goal at Euro 2012, UEFA said on Monday.

Manchester City kick off season at home to Southampton
English Premier League champions Manchester City will kick off their title defence at home to promoted Southampton on August 18 before facing Liverpool at Anfield the following weekend. No sex determination test on Pinki Pramanik so far
A sex determination test on Asian Games gold medalist Pinki Pramanik, who is in judicial custody accused of rape and of being a 'male', could not take place on Monday with the police insisting it take place in jail, while a government medical team was formed during the day. Simpson triumphs by one shot at US Open

American Webb Simpson clinched his first major title with a nerve-jangling one-shot victory at the 112th US Open after overhauling overnight leaders Jim Furyk and Graeme McDowell.

NBA: Heat beat Thunder to take 2-1 Finals lead
The Miami Heat held off Oklahoma City Thunder after a scintillating fourth-quarter battle to claim a 91-85 Game Three victory and seize a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven National Basketball Association Finals on Sunday. Chandhok first Indian to complete Le Mans race

Karun Chandhok celebrated an Indian first on Sunday after finishing the Le Mans 24 Hours endurance race in sixth place with his JRM team mates David Brabham and Peter Dumbreck.

June 17, 2012

Drogba promises 'interesting' move but mum on China

Outgoing Chelsea striker Didier Drogba promised an imminent announcement of his "interesting" move to a new club but would not confirm heading for the big-spending Chinese team Shanghai Shenhua.

Railways suspends Pinki Pramanik from service
Asian Games gold medallist Pinki Pramanik, who was arrested on the charge of 'raping' her live-in-partner and accused of being a 'male' has been suspended by the Eastern Railway from service. Tiger toils at Olympic, slips five off the pace

Very little went right for Tiger Woods during Saturday's third round at the US Open as he fell out of a tie for the lead to end a frustrating day at the Olympic Club five strokes off the pace.

Saina wins Indonesia Open Super Series title

Two-time champion Saina Nehwal staged a grand recovery to beat fourth seeded Xuerui Li of China in the final to win the Indonesia Open Super Series badminton tournament in Jakarta on Sunday. The World No. 5 Indian shuttler, who won the title back-to-back in 2009 and 2010, prevailed 13-21, 22-20, 21-19 in 70 minutes to claim her second title in two weeks, having won the Thailand Open Grand Prix last week.

June 16, 2012

Indonesia Open: Saina enters final
Two-time champion Saina Nehwal demolished Ji Hyun Sung of Korea in straight games to storm into the final of the Indonesia Open Super Series badminton tournament for the fourth consecutive year in Jakarta on Saturday. British co-driver killed in Sicily
British co-driver Gareth Roberts was killed in Sicily on Saturday when his car crashed during a round of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC) series, organisers said. Early finish to McIlroy's US Open title defence

The Northern Irish world number two became the first defending champion to miss a US Open cut since Argentina's Angel Cabrera at Torrey Pines in 2008.

Kashyap falters in semi-finals of Indonesia Open
Olympic-bound Indian shuttler P Kashyap failed to cross the semifinal hurdle of Indonesia Super Series Premier after suffering a straight-game defeat against World No. 9 Simon Santoso in the men's singles competition in Jakarta on Saturday. Armstrong's former manager denies accusations
Lance Armstrong's former team manager, Johan Bruyneel, has denied doping accusations made against him by the US Anti-Doping Agency. Patient Tiger Woods back at the top in a major

The former world number one has not won a major in four years but the omens are good this time. Of the nine previous times Woods has led a major at the halfway state, he has gone on to win eight.

June 15, 2012

Sadangi wins 10m Air Rifle gold in Germany

The Delhi girl, who currently trains at the Lakshya-backed Guns for Glory academy in Pune, shot a score of 398 in the preliminary round and then kept the momentum to grab pole position.

Italy complains to UEFA over booing of anthem
Italy wrote to UEFA on Friday expressing 'great regret' that their national anthem was booed by groups of Spanish and Croatian fans during their Euro 2012 Group C matches. 14-day jail remand for Pinki
Former Asian Games gold medallist quarter-miler Pinki Pramanik, who was arrested on rape charges after being accused of being a male, was remanded to 14 days judicial custody. AITA to send one men's doubles team to Olympics
Mahesh Bhupathi and Rohan Bopanna are likely to face the axe for insisting on playing as a team, as the All India Tennis Association selection committee, it seems, has decided to send just one combination for the men's doubles at the Olympics, with Leander Paes being the first choice. Olympic-bound Saina, Kashyap in Indonesian Open semis

Two-time champion Saina Nehwal recorded her third win over World No 4, Shixian Wang of China in a gruelling three-game match to make the semi-finals, while P Kashyap also continued his rampaging run to enter the last four stage of the Indonesian Super Series in Jakarta on Friday.

'London a tough terrorist target'

Any potential attacker planning to threaten the Olympic Games that begin next month will find London a "hard target" to penetrate, a former British security minister has said.

Tottenham Hotspur sack Redknapp

Harry Redknapp was seemingly on the verge of scaling the highest peak in English soccer but, just six weeks later, he has been brought down to earth with a bump after being jettisoned as manager of Tottenham Hotspur.

Euro 2012 chat: Discuss Thursday night's action

Barcelona devotee, Ronaldo fan and Rediff.com's Assistant Editor (Sports) Norma Godinho will discuss Thursday night's Italy v Croatia, Spain v Ireland Euro 2012 match at 1400 IST on Friday. With soccer fever at its peak, Godinho look back on the previous evening's matches with you, our readers on Rediff ZaraBol.

NBA: Heat hang on to beat the Thunder and tie series
LeBron James and Dwyane Wade proved they were not yet ready to pass the torch to the next generation by leading the Miami Heat to a 100-96 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game Two of the NBA Finals on Thursday. Woods makes solid start to US Open

The fist pumps were back and there was even a hint of a smile as Tiger Woods looked like he was enjoying himself at a major championship for the first time in a long while.

June 14, 2012

AFI to wait for Pramanik's medical report
Athletics Federation of India has said that it won't do anything now and wait for the medical report and police investigation on the allegation by a Kolkata woman that 2006 Asian Games gold medallist Pinki Pramanik was a 'male' before taking any action. India's Olympic boxers to train in Ireland

With the Ireland weather similar to London, this is basically seen as a trip to help the young squad get acclimatized to the conditions likely to be encountered at the Olympic Games.

Is the Olympic bug finally biting India?

Despite their growing success at the Olympics in the last two editions, Indian athletes are not getting enough support from the corporate world, says Grishma Shah.

Athlete Pramanik accused of being male, held for rape
The 2006 Asian Games gold medalist Pinki Pramanik was arrested on charges of 'rape' and allegations that she was actually a 'male'. US Doping officials start action against Armstrong

Five of Armstrong's associates, three doctors and two team officials, were also told that procedures had begun against them in what could be one of the biggest doping cases in sports.

London Olympic torch relay to visit Buckingham Palace

175 torchbearers would take the flame from Camden in north London to Westminster via Downing Street and Buckingham Palace.

Indonesia Open: Kashyap shocks top seed, joins Saina in QF

Two-time champion Saina Nehwal scored a hard-fought victory, but it was Parupalli Kashyap who created a flutter by stunning top seed Chen Long of China in straight games to make the last eight in the Indonesia Super Series in Jakarta on Thursday.

US cyclist Armstrong faces new doping charges
The US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) has brought formal doping charges against US cyclist Lance Armstrong and he has been immediately banned from competition in triathlons as a result, the Washington Post reported on Wednesday.

June 13, 2012

Saina reaches second round in Indonesia Open
On a high after clinching the Thailand Open title last week, Indian ace Saina Nehwal started her campaign at the Indonesia Open Super Series Premier with a thrilling three-game victory over Japan's Sayaka Sato in the women's singles competition in Jakarta. Bhanot attends IOA General Body Meeting
Former secretary-general of the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee Lalit Bhanot attended an Indian Olympic Association meeting, for the first time since being released on bail in January. Can't have coach of every athlete for Olympics: AFI
Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has said that it was not possible for all the Olympic-bound athletes to choose their coach as the available quota did not permit such a move. Snooker: Mehta, Advani enter 2nd round
While Aditya Mehta, ranked 80th in the world, outclassed Lee Spick 5-2, Pankaj Advani spanked Justin Astley 5-1. Captain Kuba saves day for Poland

A spectacular strike by captain Jakub Blaszczykowski allowed Poland to fight back to draw 1-1 against Group A favourites Russia on Tuesday in a game marred by violent clashes between rival fans outside the stadium.

June 12, 2012

Queen's grand-daughter to compete in London

Zara Phillips, grand-daughter of Queen Elizabeth, will follow in her parents' footsteps in competing as an Olympic athlete after being chosen for Britain's equestrian eventing team at the London Games.

Saina set for tougher test in Indonesia Super Series

Saina Nehwal made a rampaging start to her London Olympics build-up by winning the Thailand Open last week and the Indian ace will now look to test her game against the Chinese when she starts her campaign in the Indonesia Super Series Premier in Jakarta on Wednesday.

World Cup Qualifiers: South Korea stroll to win
Midfielder Kim Bo-kyung scored twice as South Korea strolled to a 3-0 victory over Lebanon in Goyang on Tuesday to make it two wins from two in the fourth round of World Cup qualifiers. World Cup Qualifiers: Penalty earns Australia 1-1 draw
Luke Wilkshire scored a controversial second-half penalty to help Australia earn a 1-1 draw in a dramatic World Cup qualifier against Japan on Tuesday. French federation chief plays down Nasri incident

French federation president Noel Le Graet on Tuesday played down an incident involving midfielder Samir Nasri after France drew 1-1 with England in their Euro 2012 Group D opening game.

Cuban boxing great Teofilo Stevenson dead
Cuban heavyweight boxing great Teofilo Stevenson, who won three Olympic gold medals but turned down a chance to fight Muhammad Ali for $5 million, has died of a heart attack at the age of 60, Cuban state media reported on Monday.

June 11, 2012

Paes's Olympic berth assured, Sania unsure

Tennis ace Leander Paes on Monday assured himself of a berth in the London Olympics by retaining his position in the top-10 in the latest ATP doubles rankings, but Sania Mirza's fate continued to hang in balance.

Can bolting bovine replace Germany's oracle octopus?

Could a runaway celebrity cow replace the late Paul the 'oracle' octopus as the next animal with the ability to foretell the fortunes of Germany's national soccer team?

Pato confirms that he will stay with AC Milan
AC Milan 's Brazilian striker Alexandre Pato, who is recovering from a thigh injury, has confirmed he will remain at the club next season. Indian boys win U-15 badminton title in Jakarta

Indian boys Chirag Shetty and Vaibhav Bhisne won the doubles under-15 title at the Yonex Sunrise badminton tournament in Jakarta, Indonesia, defeating the favoured host pairing of Dheva Anrimusthi and Rizky Adam 21-13, 23-21.

Social media ban imposed on gun-slinging swimmers
Australian swimmers Nick D'Arcy and Kenrick Monk will not be able to use social media during the London Games after angering the country's Olympic Committee (AOC) by posting photos of themselves with guns on their accounts last week. Polish FA hits back at Spain pitch complaints

Polish FA chief Grzegorz Lato has played down Spain's complaints about the pitch after Sunday's 1-1 draw with Italy at Euro 2012, denying the grass was too long and saying the Italians refused to let it be watered.

Uruguay beat Peru after controversial opening goal
The win lifted Copa America holders Uruguay into second place in the South American group, a point behind leaders Chile and one ahead of Argentina, while Ecuador's win in Quito saw them climb to fourth.

June 10, 2012

Sailesh qualifies second at Rockingham
Indian driver Sailesh Bolisetti has qualified second on the grid after the third round of the British GT Championship being held in Rockingham, United Kingdom. Fourteen fans held after fighting in Poznan
Fourteen soccer fans were detained in the western Polish city of Poznan on Saturday night after police broke up a fight in the main square on the eve of the Euro 2012 Group C game between Ireland and Croatia. Bolt unhurt after minor car accident: Report
Jamaica's 100 metres World record holder and Olympic champion Usain Bolt was involved in a minor car accident near his home early on Sunday but escaped without injury, the Gleaner newspaper reported. Russia urge fans to behave
The Russian soccer federation and the national team on Sunday urged their fans in Poland to behave after some supporters threw fireworks and displayed illicit banners during Russia's opening Euro 2012 match. Rudisha runs blistering 800 in New York
Yohan Blake and fellow Jamaican Olympic champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce won the 100 metre sprints, while Kenya's David Rudisha scored a sensational victory in the 800 metres at Saturday's Diamond League meet. NBA: Heat scorch Celtics to reach finals

The Miami Heat secured a berth in the National Basketball Association (NBA) finals for a second consecutive year with a series-clinching 101-88 win over the Boston Celtics on Saturday.

Stunned Pacquiao eyes Bradley revenge

Boxers usually look devastated in defeat but Manny Pacquiao smiled and turned his mind to quick, brutal revenge after being stunned by a controversial split decision loss to Timothy Bradley in their WBO welterweight showdown on Saturday.

June 09, 2012

Commonwealth Weightifting: India return with 45 medals
Indian weightlifters bagged a gold and two bronze medals, on the last day of the Commonwealth Championships, to end their campaign on a high with 45 medals, including 29 gold, at Apia, Samoa on Saturday. Tintu Luka finishes 3rd in Italy meet
Tintu Luka came up with a below par performance but that was enough for her to finish third in women's 800m race in the Primo Nebiolo Memorial Meeting at Turin, Italy. Thailand Open: Saina cruises into final

Saina Nehwal continued to gain in confidence ahead of Olympics as the top-seeded Indian entered the Thailand Open Grand Prix Gold final after outlasting local favourite Porntip Buranaprasertsuk with a straight-game win in Bangkok on Saturday.

June 08, 2012

Germany sorry for steel helmet faux pas
Germany assistant coach Hansi Flick apologised on Friday for saying his players would need steel helmets for protection when Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo takes free kicks in their Euro 2012 Group B match on Saturday. Ruthless Nadal downs Ferrer to hurtle into final

A red-hot Rafael Nadal scorched his friend David Ferrer 6-2, 6-2, 6-1 in an all-Spanish duel to reach a record seventh French Open final.

Super Saina sails into semi-finals of Thailand Open

Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal remained on course for her second title of the season as she reached the semi-finals of the Thailand Open Grand Prix Gold with a straight-games victory over Sapsiree Taerattanachai in Bangkok on Friday.

NBA: James red-hot as Heat tie series in Boston
A red-hot night from LeBron James fired the Miami Heat to a crushing 98-79 victory over the Boston Celtics on Thursday, sending the NBA Eastern Conference Final series to a decisive seventh game. Bolt overcomes Powell challenge to win 100m in Oslo

Jamaica's world record holder Usain Bolt was made to work for victory in the 100 metres at the Diamond League meeting in Oslo on Thursday.

June 07, 2012

India's gold rush continues at C'wealth lifting
Indian weightlifters continued their gold rush in the Commonwealth Championships, adding 10 more medals to their 16-medal haul on the second day of the competition in Apia, Samoa, on Thursday. After the second day, India's medal tally swelled to 31, including 21 gold. Saina in quarter-finals of Thailand Open
Saina Nehwal registered a 21-17, 21-13 victory over China's Li Han to advance to the quarter-finals of Thailand Grand Prix Gold in Bangkok on Thursday. Liu Xiang's technique makes him master of hurdling

Like a fine craftsman, China's Liu Xiang has become the world's master hurdler because of his skill, not natural speed, former world record holder Renaldo Nehemiah says.

NBA: Thunder strike down Spurs, advance to finals

The Oklahoma City Thunder booked their place in the National Basketball Association finals on the back of a furious second-half comeback led by Kevin Durant to take a series-clinching 107-99 win over the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday.

Underdog Bradley gets shot at fame with Pacquiao bout
American Timothy Bradley has laboured outside of the boxing spotlight for much of his career, but on Saturday he has a shot at fame and fortune when he steps in the ring to battle Filipino southpaw Manny Pacquiao. Chat with Olympic boxer MC Mary Kom

Boxing ace MC Mary Kom will lead India's medal hopes at the 2012 Olympics in London.

Chat with Olympic shooter Vijay Kumar

The 26-year-old is the country's leading pistol shooter, having won medals at every major event he's participated in, and a medal contender at the London Olympics.

June 06, 2012

Saina survives first round scare at Thailand Open
Top seed Saina Nehwal survived a scare from little-known local player Nichaon Jindapon before prevailing in three games, in the opening round of the Thailand Open Grand Prix Gold in Bangkok on Wednesday. The world No 5 Indian won 21-13, 16-21, 21-15 in 59 minutes, at the Cu Sport Complex. India wins 11 gold on Day 1 of C'wealth Weightlifting
India made an impressive start at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships, bagging 15 medals, including 11 gold, on the opening day at Apia, Samoa, on Wednesday. Top Indian paddlers to play in Sweden, Brazil
Olympic-bound paddlers, Soumyajit Ghosh and Ankita Das, will spearhead Indian challenge in men's and women's competitions respectively at the Swedish Open to be held at Helsingborg between June 7 and 12 and the Brazil Open at Santos from June 13 to 17. Tottenham's Kranjcar to join Dynamo Kiev
Niko Kranjcar is set to leave Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur and join Ukrainian giants Dynamo Kiev after Euro 2012, the Croatia midfielder has said. UAE mindful of Ramadan challenges
United Arab Emirates' soccer playmaker Omar Abdulrahman is unfazed about facing Britain at the Olympics -- but the All Whites' task of upsetting the hosts will be made harder by the tournament coinciding with Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting. NBA: Celtics cool off Heat to move one win from finals

The Boston Celtics drew on their famous grit and determination to move within one victory of the NBA Finals on Tuesday with an upset 94-90 road win over the Miami Heat to take a 3-2 series lead.

Cueist Mehta starts season with a win in Wuxi Classic
Indian cueist Aditya Mehta registered his first win of the season, notching up a 5-3 victory over Sam Baird of England in the opening round of the Wuxi Classic Qualifiers that kicked off at the World Snooker Academy in Sheffield. Ames and Durant qualify for US Open
Canadian Stephen Ames and American Joe Durant were among nine players who booked their places at next week's US Open in a weather-delayed sectional qualifier in Memphis, Tennessee, on Tuesday.

June 05, 2012

Manchester United agree terms for Dortmund's Kagawa

Manchester United have agreed terms with Borussia Dortmund for the transfer of midfielder Shinji Kagawa, the English Premier League club said on Tuesday, with the Japan international needing to pass a medical and obtain a work permit to complete the deal.

Tyson Gay in New York return

United States sprinter Tyson Gay will put aside the pain of a nagging hip injury and run his first race in nearly a year at this weekend's Adidas Grand Prix in New York as he scrambles to be fit for Olympic trials, he said.

Ryder Cup captain Davis Love III qualifies for US Open
US Ryder Cup captain Davis Love III will tee off at his 23rd US Open at Olympic Club this month after making the grade at a qualifier in Columbus on Monday. NBA: Thunder roll over Spurs to be on brink of series win
The Oklahoma City Thunder moved one win away from the NBA championship finals after a 108-103 road victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Monday gave them a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series.

June 04, 2012

Bhupathi-Mirza in semis of French Open
Sania Mirza and Mahesh Bhupathi inched towards their second Grand Slam title together as they progressed to the mixed doubles semi-finals of the French Open after shocking second seeds Kveta Peschke and Mike Bryan. Poonia gets silver in Portland discus event
Olympic-bound Indian discus thrower Krishna Poonia marginally improved her performance with an effort of 62.34m but that was enough to win her a silver medal at the Post Pre Elite Womens' event at Portland, USA. Kuyt set to leave Liverpool for Fenerbahce
Dutch international Dirk Kuyt has agreed a move from Liverpool to Turkish side Fenerbahce, the English Premier League club said on Sunday. Celta back in La Liga after five-year absence
Celta Vigo were promoted back to Spain's top flight after five years in the second division after a 0-0 draw at home to Cordoba on Sunday secured them second place behind division winners and Galician neighbours Deportivo Coruna. Nigeria, S Africa leave it late in World Cup games
Nigeria and South Africa both left it late on Sunday to salvage points at the start of their bids to qualify for the World Cup on a day that emphasised the increasing vagaries of the qualifying competition on the African continent. Mexico end Brazil's 10-match unbeaten run with 2-0 win
First half goals by Giovani dos Santos and Javier Hernandez gave Mexico a 2-0 win over Brazil in a friendly in Dallas on Sunday. Iniesta inspires Spain to 1-0 win against China

Andres Iniesta showed why he could be the key to Spain's chances at Euro 2012 when he came off the bench to inspire the world and European champions to a 1-0 win at home to China in their final warm-up game on Sunday.

England without Cahill for Euros
Gary Cahill was ruled out of Euro 2012 on Sunday after a scan showed he had broken his jaw in two places in the final warm-up match against Belgium.

June 02, 2012

WADA propose Olympic ban in revised draft code
The World Anti-Doping Agency WADA has issued a revised draft code inserting a proposed Olympic ban for serious doping offenders from January 2015. Junior wrestlers allege sexual harassment
The Sports Authority of India has suspended a wrestling coach after four girls, training under him, levelled sexual harassment charges against him. Poonia fourth at Diamond League Meet
Olympic-bound Indian discus thrower Krishna Poonia came up with a below-par effort of 62.11m to miss out on a medal and settle for the fourth spot in the Perfontaine Classic Diamond League Meet at Eugene in Oregon, United States. Boxer Mayweather enters jail for domestic violence term

Boxing champion Floyd Mayweather Jr. was booked into a Las Vegas jail on Friday to serve a 90-day sentence for domestic violence against an ex-girlfriend, a term that was previously postponed so the welterweight fighter could compete in a bout.

June 01, 2012

Bolt sets year's fastest time for 100m in Rome

Olympic champion Usain Bolt clocked a season's best of 9.76 seconds to win the 100 metres at the Rome Golden Gala Diamond League meeting on Thursday.

May 31, 2012

Draft National Youth Policy 2012 unveiled
The exposure draft of the National Youth Policy, 2012, was unveiled by Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Ajay Maken on Thuursday. The Draft NYP 2012, said Maken, is a first of its kind as it recognises youth not as a homogenous group, but has numerous differentials based on habitat, environment, socio-economic status of their families and their own life styles. Sports Ministry asks CIC to bring BCCI under RTI
The Sports Ministry is pinning its hope on the Central Information Commission to bring the Board of Control for Crickt in India under the purview of the Right To Information Act. Sports Minister Ajay Maken said he has appealed to the CIC to bring the BCCI under RTI for varied reasons. GM signs on as Manchester United's auto sponsor
The world's largest automaker is jilting America's Super Bowl for the global variety of football. OAI advices Shah Rukh to disassociate from IPL
The Olympians Association of India (OAI) has advised bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan to disassociate himself from the IPL and rather promote a sport that brings glory to the nation. Rodgers offered Liverpool manager's job: Swansea

Liverpool are poised to entrust Brendan Rodgers with moulding the former European champions into Premier League title challengers after Swansea City said their highly-regarded coach had been offered the job as Kenny Dalglish's successor.

PHF fines rebel players for WSH participation
Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has imposed a hefty fine of Rs 10 lakh each on senior hockey players Rehan Butt and Shakeel Abbasi for playing in the unsanctioned World Series Hockey in India. Brazil outclass United States 4-1 in friendly

United States coach Juergen Klinsmann said America's players needed to toughen up and get "nastier" if they wanted to compete against the world's best.

Hero's welcome for Drogba as African qualifiers begin

Didier Drogba can expect a hero's welcome when he returns to the continent for the start of the group phase of Africa's World Cup preliminaries at the weekend, a fortnight after his Champions League triumph.

NBA: Heat edge Celtics in overtime as Rondo sizzles for Boston
The Miami Heat withstood a virtuoso performance from Rajon Rondo, who tallied a career-high 44 points with 10 assists and eight rebounds, to eke out a 115-111 overtime victory over the Boston Celtics and claim a 2-0 Eastern Conference finals lead.

May 30, 2012

Ranieri joins Monaco on two-year deal

Former Chelsea, Juventus and Inter Milan manager Claudio Ranieri has been appointed as Monaco coach as the club from the wealthy principality look to regain their top flight status, the Ligue 2 side said on Wednesday.

Tourists will flock to London for Olympics

London will be packed during the summer Olympics as the number of overseas visitors rises and Britons postpone holiday plans to stay home for the games, a study said on Wednesday.

May 29, 2012

Troubled boxing champion Tapia dies at age 45

Five-time world boxing champion Johnny Tapia was found dead in his Albuquerque, New Mexico, home at the age of 45.

May 28, 2012

Euro: Jagielka to replace injured Barry in England's squad
Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry was ruled out of the European Championship on Monday with England manager Roy Hodgson calling up Everton's Phil Jagielka as his replacement. Santosh Trophy: Services beat TN to bag title
Services squashed a late surge from Tamil Nadu to lift the 66th Santosh Trophy at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack on Monday. Euro: Ukraine to use rockets to disperse rain clouds
Ukraine is planning to fire rockets to break up rain clouds if bad weather threatens to upset soccer matches during next month's Euro 2012 tournament, a government official said on Monday. Euro: Torres determined to repay del Bosque's faith

Fernando Torres is determined to repay the faith shown in him by Spain coach Vicente del Bosque after a spectacular loss of form put him in serious danger of being left out of the world and European champions' squad for Euro 2012.

Chelsea to miss out on Battersea stadium

Champions League winner Chelsea Football Club will almost certainly fail in its bid to move its stadium to London landmark Battersea Power Station, a source close to the sale process said.

Teams prepare for Euros Julie Andrews-style

The Austrian Alps have long been a magnet for hikers, adventure sports fanatics and 'Sound of Music' nostalgists.

Brazilian C'ship: Corinthians lose, Ronaldinho jeered
Holders Corinthians slumped to their second consecutive 1-0 defeat in the Brazilian championship, where the highlight of the weekend's matches was a spectacular bicycle kick by Vasco da Gama's Alecsandro. NBA: Spurs school young Thunder in fourth to take 1-0 lead
The San Antonio Spurs gave Oklahoma City a lesson in championship poise with a 101-98 victory on Sunday that stretched their remarkable win streak to 19 games and gave them the early advantage in the Western Conference Finals. Gebrselassie fails in Olympic 10,000 bid

Former 10,000 metres world record holder Haile Gebrselassie failed to qualify for the London Olympics after finishing seventh at the Fanny Blankers-Koen Games in Hengelo, Netherlands on Sunday.

May 27, 2012

Euro 2012: No place for Soldado in Spain's squad
Striker Roberto Soldado was left out of Spain's squad for Euro 2012 on Sunday, despite scoring a hat-trick in a friendly in March. NBA: Celtics beat Philadelphia to reach Eastern Conference final
The Boston Celtics held off the Philadelphia 76ers 85-75 in their decisive Game Seven on Saturday to advance to the NBA'S Eastern Conference finals against the Miami Heat. Spain's Fabregas ruled out up to 10 days
Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas is set to miss a big chunk of Spain's preparations for Euro 2012 after being ruled out for seven to 10 days with a hamstring strain, the Spanish club said on Saturday.

May 26, 2012

Indian GP: Yogeshwar opts out, Sushil non-committal
The inaugural Hari Ram Indian Grand Prix wrestling tournament suffered another setback on Saturday with Olympic-bound grappler Yogeshwar Dutt (60kg) pulling out of the event due to a back injury.

May 25, 2012

Lathika, Udayan score upset wins to make finals

Unseeded players, Lathika Prem Kumar of Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan's Udayan Bhakar, caused the biggest upsets in the girls' under-12 and boys' under-16 singles respectively, in the semi-finals of the Cricket Club of India (CCI) 6th Ramesh Desai Memorial All India Ranking National Tennis Championship 2012, played , at the (CCI) courts, Mumbai on Friday.

Hidayat in a huff before London Games

Athens Olympic champion Taufik Hidayat has criticised badminton's ruling body in the run-up to this year's London Games after Indonesia crashed out of the Thomas Cup.

Blatter calls for alternative to penalty shoot-out
FIFA president Sepp Blatter has called on Germany's World Cup winner Franz Beckenbauer and his panel of soccer experts to try to come up with an alternative to penalty shootouts to settle drawn matches. Preparatory events for Olympic bound paddlers, judokas approved
The Multi Disciplinary Steering Committee of the sports ministry has approved the preparatory tournaments for London-bound paddlers and judokas ahead of the upcoming Olympic Games. NBA: Wade takes charge as Heat reach East final
Dwyane Wade turned on the style as the Miami Heat clinched a place in the NBA Eastern Conference finals with a 105-93 win over the Indiana Pacers in Game Six on Thursday.

May 24, 2012

Qualifer Paramveer shocks fourth seed Gagan

Qualifier Paramveer Bajwa from Chandigarh sent Rajasthan's fourth seed Gagan Sharma crashing out in the boys' singles quarter-finals round of the Cricket Club of India (CCI) 6th Ramesh Desai Memorial National Tennis Championship 2012, at the (CCI) courts, Mumbai on Thursday.

Amit pulls out, Sushil unlikely for Indian GP Wrestling
Olympic-bound grappler Amit Kumar has been forced to pull out of the Hari Ram Indian GP Wrestling after being diagnosed with chicken pox while Beijing Games bronze medallist Sushil Kumar still remains a doubtful starter for the inaugural edition of the event, commencing on Friday. Many Brazil WCup projects still to take flight

With little more than two years until the kickoff of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, nearly 41 percent of the infrastructure projects planned by the government haven't left the drawing board, according to an official report released on Wednesday.

NYPD chief applauds London Games security
New York's police chief said on Wednesday he was impressed with security planning for this summer's London Olympics, rejecting suggestions that US officials were concerned about arrangements for the games which start next month. Doha, Baku out of running for 2020 Games

The chase to host the 2020 Summer Games was reduced to a three horse race between Istanbul, Madrid and Tokyo after Doha and the Azerbaijan capital Baku were dropped from the running by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Wednesday.

May 23, 2012

Ukraine official sacked for selling Olympic tickets
The Ukraine National Olympic Committee launched an investigation on Tuesday and suspended a top official accused of offering to sell thousands of dollars worth of tickets for the London Olympics on the black market.

May 22, 2012

Bolt wants to complete 100m in 9.7s at Ostrava

Olympic champion Usain Bolt hopes to clock 9.7 seconds in the 100 metres at the Golden Spike meeting in the Czech Republic on Friday as he continues his preparations for the London Games.

Govt yet to give approval for U-17 football WC bid
The All India Football Federation will have to wait a little longer to make an official presentation to the FIFA to host the 2017 U017 World Cup as the government is yet to give its final approval to the bid. AIFF to appoint Koevermans as new football coach
Former Dutch international Wim Koevermans is all set to take over as the chief coach of the Indian football team for a two-year term, ending a more than a year's search for a full-fledged occupant for the top job. Drogba to visit India for Pepsi T20 Football

Ivory Coast and Chelsea striker Didier Drogba will visit India next month for the grand finale of Pepsi T20 Football event.

May 20, 2012

Thunder silence Lakers to take 3-1 series lead
A late three-pointer by Kevin Durant capped a dramatic fightback by the Oklahoma City Thunder as they pushed the Los Angeles Lakers to the brink of playoff elimination with a 103-100 win in Game Four on Saturday.

May 19, 2012

Sudha breaks national record but misses Olympic mark

2010 Asian Games gold medallist Sudha Singh bettered her national record in 3000m steeplechase en route to her 11th place finish at the Samsung Diamond League in Shanghai.

Flame for London Games arrives in Britain
The flame for the London Olympics burned brightly on British soil on Friday after David Beckham stepped off a special flight from the Games birthplace of Greece to light a cauldron with a golden torch.

May 18, 2012

I'll surely come back with an Olympics medal: Mary Kom

Following her qualification for the Olympics, India's ace boxer MC Mary Kom tells Rediff.com's Laxmi Negi she is confident of clinching a medal at the London Games.

Kavita misses Olympic berth but wins World C'ships medal
Kavita Chahal (+81kg) emerged the lone Indian woman boxer to clinch a medal at the World Championships after settling for a bronze in the semi-finals against Kazakhstan's Yuldus Mamatkulova in Qinhuangdao, China, on Friday. The Indian went down 9-15 and bowed out of the event, but was the only one from the 10-member team to fetch a medal. Mary Kom qualifies for London Games

India's ace woman boxer M C Mary Kom's qualified for the London Olympics after World No. 2 Nicola Adams got the better of Russia's AIBA World champion Yelena Savelyeva 11-6 in the semi-finals of the World Championships in Qinhuangdao, China, on Friday.

Manchester City to make more top signings: Mancini

Newly-crowned Premier League champions Manchester City will strengthen their squad in the close season as the club target European glory next year, manager Roberto Mancini said on Thursday.

MotoGP: Stoner to retire at end of season

Twice MotoGP world champion Casey Stoner said on Thursday he had lost his love for the sport and would retire at the end of the 2012 season.

AC Milan sign midfielders Montolivo, Traore
AC Milan have strengthened their midfield with the signing of Italy's Riccardo Montolivo and Mali's Bakaye Traore who were both free agents, the Serie A runners-up said on Thursday.

May 17, 2012

No pressure to select Beckham: Coe

David Beckham will have to earn his place in Britain's Olympic soccer squad on skill and merit like any other player and can expect no special favours, London 2012 organisers said on Thursday.

Maradona could be next coach of UAE

Diego Maradona could return to international soccer as the Argentine is being considered for the vacant United Arab Emirates head coaching job.

Barca's Alves out for up to eight weeks
Barcelona defender Dani Alves will be out of action for up to two months after having surgery on a fractured right collarbone sustained during training on Wednesday. Livepool sack Dalglish as manager

Kenny Dalglish's second stint in charge of Liverpool was ended by the club's American owners on Wednesday as the Anfield great paid the price for his side's worst Premier League finish for almost 20 years.

May 16, 2012

Mary Kom loses, Olympic berth hangs in balance

India's ace woman boxer M C Mary Kom's Olympic ticket will be decided by fate now after she lost in the quarter-finals to world No 2 Nicola Adams in the World Championships in Qinhuangdao, China, on Wednesday.

Beckham to bring Olympic flame to Britain

David Beckham will help bring the Olympic flame to Britain on Friday after he takes part in a formal handover ceremony in Athens, London 2012 organisers said.

Blackout curtains will let London athletes sleep in
If the sun shines on the London Olympics athletes will not have to worry about being woken up early by its rays thanks to blackout curtains installed in every apartment in the Games village. Australian women's boxer Elmir banned for doping
Australian boxer Bianca Elmir's hopes of competing at the London Olympics are in jeopardy after she was slapped with a provisional ban for failing a doping test at national championships in February. Obama teases Beckham over his underwear ads

US President Barack Obama poked fun at one of sport's biggest stars at the White House on Tuesday, remarking that British soccer player David Beckham had a knack for combining athletic prowess with commercial appeal.

Ferdinand to be left out of England squad

Defender Rio Ferdinand will be omitted from England's Euro 2012 squad which is due to be announced by new national team manager Roy Hodgson said, according to British media.

May 15, 2012

Mary Kom closer to Olympics berth after another win

Ace Indian woman boxer M C Mary Kom (51kg) continued to make strides towards booking an Olympic berth by entering the World Championships' quarter-finals even as L Sarita Devi's fate hangs in balance after she lost a close last-16 bout in Qinhuangdao, China, on Tuesday.

Four positive dope tests at Senior National athletics
The doping menace in Indian athletics continues. Four athletes were caught using banned substances during the Federation Cup Senior National Championships in Patiala last month. The 'A' samples of the four were found to have contained stanozolol, methandienone anabolic steroid and methylhexaneamine stimulant.

May 14, 2012

Phelps hopes he has not left training push too late

Michael Phelps said he hoped he had not left his push for the London Olympics too late as he tries to improve his times and form with the US Olympic trials coming next month.

India win four gold in Asian GP athletics
National record holder Renjith Maheswary won the men's triple jump as India bagged 12 medals, including four gold, in the third and final leg of the Asian Grand Prix Athletics in Chonburi, Thailand, on Monday. Maheswary's effort of 16.46 metres was, however, below his second leg gold medal-winning effort of 16.61 metres, at Kanchanapuri. Swapnali sixth in Asian Cup sub-juniors' triathlon
Mumbai girl Swapnali Yadav braved stiff competition to finish sixth in the sub-juniors' (13-15) age-group at the Asian Cup International Triathlon, held in Subic Bay, the Philippines, on May 6. Australian triathlete hospitalised with chest pains

Australian Olympic-bound triathlete Brad Kahlefeldt has been isolated in a San Diego hospital with symptoms that could be tuberculosis, his national federation said on Monday.

Olympic Triple jump champion Olsson retires
Swedish Olympic triple jump champion Christian Olsson said on Monday he was retiring after injury put an end to his plans for a comeback at the London Games later this year. Serie A: Del Piero on target as Juve finish unbeaten

Alessandro Del Piero, almost certainly playing his last home game for Juventus at the age of 37, celebrated with a goal as the Serie A champions beat Atalanta 3-1 on Sunday to finish their campaign unbeaten.

May 13, 2012

Om Prakash shatters shot put national record
Om Prakash Karhana on Sunday shattered Shakti Singh's 12-year-old national record in shot put on his way to achieving London Olympics qualification 'A' standard in a meet at Szombathely, Hungary. Madrid Open: Serena humbles Azarenka to win title

A fired-up Serena Williams sent out a warning to the young pretenders of women's tennis when she powered to a crushing 6-1, 6-3 victory over World No. 1 Victoria Azarenka to win the Madrid Open on Sunday.

Vidic on course for United return in August: Ferguson
Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic should be fit to make his long-awaited return from injury in time for the new season in August, manager Alex Ferguson said on Sunday. La Liga: Keita grabs late equaliser for 10-man Barca at Betis

Seydou Keita scored a stoppage-time equaliser as 10-man Barcelona drew 2-2 at Real Betis to wrap up Pep Guardiola's last La Liga campaign as coach of the club on Saturday.

NBA: Lebron James named MVP winner

Miami Heat forward LeBron James was named on Saturday as the National Basketball Association's Most Valuable Player for the 2011-12 season.

NBA: Lakers oust Nuggets, Celtics hold off 76ers

The Los Angeles Lakers finally put away the Denver Nuggets while the Boston Celtics got their series with the Philadelphia 76ers off to a nervous but successful start on Saturday.

Boxing World C'ships: Mary Kom makes winning start

Star Indian woman boxer M C Mary Kom made a resounding start to her title defence and the quest for an Olympic berth by advancing to the pre-quarterfinals of the seventh World Women's Championships in Qinhuangdao, China on Sunday.

May 12, 2012

Sharath, Amalraj fail to make it to London Olympics

Star Indian paddler Achanta Sharath Kamal and national champion Anthony Amalraj failed to book a berth for the upcoming London Games after crashing out of the World Olympic Qualification Table Tennis Tournament in Doha, Qatar.

Boxing WC: Sarita wins, inches closer to Oly berth

Asian champion L Sarita Devi (60kg) on Saturday took her first step towards the London Games qualification after she posted an easy win over Azerbaijan's Ayzanat Hajiyeva in the opening round of the Women's World Championships-cum-Olympic Qualifiers in Qinhuangdao, China.

May 11, 2012

Gowda finishes 6th in Diamond League
National record holder Vikas Gowda finished a creditable sixth in men's discus throw in the first leg of the Samsung Diamond League series in Doha on Friday. Inzaghi, Gattuso quit AC Milan
Filippo Inzaghi and Gennaro Gattuso both announced their departures from AC Milan on Friday, following in the footsteps of Alessandro Nesta, who revealed that he was leaving the Serie A club on Thursday. Indian paddlers confident of Olympic qualification
With three of the four Indian paddlers already through to the next stage of the final World Olympic Qualification Tournament in Doha, national coach Bhawini Muhherji says his wards are "motivated enough" to make it to the Olympics. Luis Enrique quits as Roma coach
Luis Enrique has quit as manager of AS Roma, putting an end to a troubled reign in charge of the Serie A side, the club's general director confirmed on Friday. Not possible to trust IOA: Maken
Sticking to the decision of deferring the South Asian Games to the second half of 2014, Sports Minister Ajay Maken on Friday said that the IOA could be handed over the responsibility of organising the SAG only if it removes its tainted chief Suresh Kalmadi. Boxing World C'Ship: Mary Kom seeded 7th

India's five-time World Champion M C Mary Kom got the seventh seeding and a first-round bye in the draw for the World Women's Boxing Championships in Qinhuangdao, China -- the first and only qualifying event for the sport ahead of its historic Olympic debut in London.

May 10, 2012

Amalraj, Kamal score in Olympic TT qualifier
While national champion Anthony Amalraj defeated world number 49 Emmanuel Lebesson of France, Sharath Kamal got the better of Slovakian Jan Zibrat 4-2, in Doha on Thursday. No nostalgia for Rogge in Olympia last stand

There will be no trips down memory lane, nor pangs of nostalgia for Jacques Rogge after his last Games torch-lighting ceremony in ancient Olympia on Thursday, the International Olympic Committee president said.

London Olympics torch lit in Ancient Olympia

The London 2012 Olympics torch was lit by the sun's rays in ancient Olympia on Thursday, kicking off a relay that will culminate with the lighting of the Olympic stadium's cauldron during the Games opening ceremony on July 27.

Blake fails to break season's 100m record set by Bolt

Jamaican world champion Yohan Blake missed the fastest 100 metres of the year by the blink of an eye on Wednesday, his 9.84 seconds a mere 0.02 behind world record holder and training partner Usain Bolt's mark.

May 09, 2012

Judoka Garima qualifies for Olympics on Asian quota
Garima Choudhary clinched a continental quota place and emerged the only Indian judoka to qualify for the upcoming London Olympics. She made the cut in the 63kg category on the basis of the latest rankings released by the International Judo Federation (IJF).

May 08, 2012

Ronnie O'Sullivan wins fourth World snooker title
Ronnie O'Sullivan beat fellow-Briton Ali Carter 18-11 to win the World snooker championship for the fourth time on Monday. Olympic medal will set me free, says Mary Kom

India's five-time world champion M C Mary Kom said a podium finish in London would give her the freedom to leave the ring on a high.

May 07, 2012

NBA: Lakers go 3-1 up on Nuggets, 76ers, Knicks win
Ramon Sessions and Steve Blake landed clutch three-pointers in the final minute to give the Los Angeles Lakers a nail-biting 92-88 road victory over the Denver Nuggets and a 3-1 lead in their first-round playoff series. Poonia sets national record, wins silver in Hawaii

Commonwealth Games gold medallist and Olympics-bound woman discus thrower Krishna Poonia created a new national record en route to her silver medal winning performance at the Altius Track Crew Throwdown meet in Maui Island, Hawaii on Monday.

Rickie Fowler wins first PGA title in playoff

Rickie Fowler delivered on his vast potential by claiming his first PGA Tour win at the Wells Fargo championship with a birdie on the first hole of a playoff against Briton Rory McIlroy and fellow American DA Points at Quail Hollow on Sunday.

Security breach embarrasses London Games organisers

A newspaper embarrassed the organisers of the 2012 Olympic Games on Sunday by disclosing it had smuggled a fake bomb past two security checkpoints into the London complex housing the sporting festival's main stadiums.

May 06, 2012

Archers win silver in World Cup
The Indian men's recurve team of Jayanta Talukdar, Tarundeep Rai and Rahul Banerjee settled for a silver after going down to their opponents from Great Britain in the Archery World Cup Stage II in Antalya. Deven�dro wins silve�r at Presi�dent'�s Cup

Olympics-bound Indian boxer L Devendro Singh continued his fine form at the International Republic of Kazakhstan President's Cup by entering the finals with a thrilling win in the last-four stage in Almaty.

Indian women lift Asian Squash title
Indian women squash team on Sunday created history by winning its maiden Asian title by defeating top seed Hong Kong 2-0 in the final in Kuwait. Bolt clocks year's fastest 100 metres
After two false starts, the Jamaican world record holder clocked a dazzling 9.82 seconds in his first individual race of the year, exploding from the blocks to take control at 40 metres.

May 05, 2012

Deepika Kumari wins first World Cup title
India's Olympic prospect Deepika Kumari won her first World Cup individual recurve gold medal on Saturday at Antalya, Turkey. NBA: Celtics edge the Hawks, Nuggets tame Lakers
The Boston Celtics, lifted by the return of guard Rajon Rondo from suspension, scraped past the Atlanta Hawks 90-84 in overtime on Friday to take a 2-1 lead in their Eastern Conference quarter-final series. Poonia records season best to claim silver at US event

Indian discus thrower Krishna Poonia came up with her season's best effort of 63.67 meters to notch up a silver medal at the Altius Track Crew Throwdown Meet in Maui Island, US.

May 04, 2012

Deepika, men's recurve team in World Cup final
On a good day for India, promising archer Deepika Kumari and the men's recurve team sailed into the finals of the Archery World Cup Stage 2 at Antalya in Turkey, on Friday. India teams in semi-finals of Asian squash
India's men's and women's teams put up a dominant show to sail into the semi-finals of the Asian Team Squash Championships in Kuwait. While the women's team registered a 2-0 victory over higher-ranked Malaysia to top the pool, the men's team blanked Japan 3-0. Vikas loses, Kanwar assured of bronze in Kazakhstan

Olympics-bound boxer Vikas Krishan made a surprise exit from the third International Republic of Kazakhstan President's Cup, losing to local player Kojabekov Bakhitjan in the quarter-finals of the welterweight division in Almaty on Friday.

Archery WC: Deepika Kumari enters individual final
Promising Indian archer Deepika Kumari has made the final of the women's recurve individual event of the World Cup Stage 2 at Antalya. She will face Korea's Lee Sung Jin in the summit clash on Saturday.

May 03, 2012

Devendro, Manpreet in semis; Thapa, Manoj lose

India experienced mixed fortunes on the second day of the third International 'Republic of Kazakhstan President's Cup' in Almaty, on Thursday. Asian Games silver medallist Manpreet Singh (91kg) and L Devendro Singh (49kg) advanced to the semi-finals of the tournament with resounding victories, but Youth Olympics silver medallist Shiva Thapa (56kg) and Commonwealth Games gold medallist Manoj Kumar (64kg) suffered defeats in the quarter-finals.

Lifters Ravi Kumar, Soniya Chanu for Olympics
Commonwealth Games gold medallist Katulu Ravi Kumar and N Soniya Chanu will represent India in the weightlifting competition at the London Olympics. Wrestler Geetika off to Finland for Olympic qualifier

Besides emerging victorious in the selection trials against Alka Tomar, Geetika Jakhar also won a court battle against the Wrestling Federation of India to obtain her right to compete in the Olympic qualifier.

Jwala, Diju among 5 Indians for Olympics badminton

Parupalli Kashyap's participation in the men's singles and Jwala Gutta's entry in the women's and mixed doubles at the London Olympics badminton event were confirmed after the world rankings were issued on Thursday.

Asian Team squash: Indian men in last eight
The Indian men's team, led by National champion Saurav Ghosal, put up a dominating show to sail into the quarter-finals of the 16th Asian Team Squash Championships in Kuwait. It blanked Jordan 3-0 in the pre-quarter-finals, at the Salem Al-Sabah International squash complex on Wednesday night, to top Pool 'A'. NBA: Grizzlies keep Clippers at bay
Memphis suffered no ill effects of their stunning Game One capitulation to complete a measured 105-98 triumph over the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday to tie up their first-round Western Conference series at 1-1. Visa woes for wrestler Geetika before Oly qualifier

Despite winning the case in the Delhi High Court against the Wrestling Federation of India, Geetika Jakhar's Olympic dream is still hanging by a thread as she is yet to get her visa for Helsinki, Finland, where the last qualifying event for London Games is starting on Thursday.

Norwegian swim champ Dale Oen's autopsy inconclusive

An autopsy of world champion Norwegian swimmer Alexander Dale Oen, who collapsed and died in Arizona this week at the age of 26, has found no conclusive cause of death, a newspaper in the state reported late on Wednesday.

May 02, 2012

Shiva, Vikas off to winning starts in Kazakh boxing

Olympic-bound Indian boxers Shiva Thapa and Vikas Krishan started their build-up for the mega-event on a winning note. Both entered the second round of the third International Republic of Kazakhstan President's Cup in Almaty.

Seven-times World snooker champion Hendry retires
Seven-times World snooker champion Stephen Hendry announced his retirement on Tuesday after bowing out of the World Championships in the quarter-finals. Hendry, thrashed 13-2 by fellow-Scot Stephen Maguire, had shown flashes of his best form during the tournament, thrashing reigning champion John Higgins in the last 16, but was a shadow of his former self as he slipped out in emphatic fashion.

May 01, 2012

NBA: Thunder roll to 2-0 lead over Mavericks
Oklahoma City Thunder dealt Dallas another heartbreaking loss in the NBA playoffs on Monday to take a 2-0 lead over last season's champions in a series that is threatening to boil over. Norwegian world champion Dale Oen dead at 26

Norwegian swimming world champion Alexander Dale Oen has died of a cardiac arrest at the age of 26.

Indian shooters annoyed over London hotel mix-up
India's Olympic shooters are annoyed about being forced to leave their London hotel a day early after a booking mix-up at the shooting World Cup, a test event for the Olympic Games. CAS overturns British life ban for drug offenders
Sprinter Dwain Chambers and cyclist David Millar were cleared to compete in this year's London Olympics after the British Olympic Association's (BOA) lifetime Games ban on drug offenders was overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport on Monday.

April 30, 2012

NRAI blames private agency for London hotel drama
The NRAI will send a protest letter to various sports bodies after Indian shooters, competing in the ISSF Shooting World Cup in London, were forced to spend a night at the hotel lobby due to the organising committee's irresponsible behaviour. Missiles put on London rooftop to guard Olympics

Britain's military has told residents of an upscale apartment development near the Olympic Park in east London it is installing a missile battery on top of a tower within their housing complex to defend the 2012 Games this summer.

Missiles put on London rooftop to guard Olympics

Swapnali to participate in Asian triathlon
Young long distance swimmer Swapnali Yadav will take part in the Asian Cup International Triathlon to be held at Subic Bay, Philippines on May 5 and 6. The 13-year-old Mumbai school girl has been selected to participate in the sub-juniors event featuring 300m swimming, 10km cycling and 3km running by the Indian Triathlon Federation. Dwain Chambers lifetime ban lifted

Sprinter Dwain Chambers and cyclist David Miller will be cleared to compete in this year's London Olympics when the Court of Arbitration (CAS) over-rules a British Olympic life ban on drug offenders, a source with knowledge of the ruling told Reuters on Sunday.

Two quota places for Indian lifters at Olympics
Indian weightlifters earned two quota places for the London Olympics -- one each in the men's and women's sections from the Senior Asian Championships, which concluded at Pyeongtaek, South Korea, on Monday. Porto clinch league title as Benfica draw
Porto clinched their 26th Portuguese Premier League title after fierce rivals Benfica slipped to a 2-2 draw at Rio Ave on Sunday, extending their decade-long domination of Portuguese football. NBA: Streaking Spurs, Lakers romp in playoff openers

Kobe Bryant had a game-high 31 points for the Los Angeles Lakers while the San Antonio Spurs relied on a potent offense as each team earned playoff-opening wins in their respective Western Conference quarter-final series.

Roy Hodgson is top contender for England manager

Roy Hodgson became the leading contender to take charge of England at Euro 2012 when the English FA said they had spoken to the West Bromwich Albion manager about succeeding Fabio Capello.

La Liga: Barcelona rout Rayo to keep Real waiting

Barcelona kept Real Madrid's La Liga title celebrations on hold for a few days at least with a crushing 7-0 victory at Rayo Vallecano on Sunday after Real had cruised to a 3-0 home win over Sevilla.

Serie A: Juve stay top, AC Milan keep in touch

Antonio Cassano's goal in his first start for six months helped AC Milan to a 4-1 win at Siena on Sunday and kept his team within three points of Serie A leaders Juventus who thumped lowly Novara 4-0.

April 29, 2012

Podium finish for Mahindra's Kumar at Italian race

Mahindra Racing's young rider Indian Sarath Kumar created history after finishing third and getting his first ever podium finish at the CIV-Italian Championship in Monza on Sunday.

Shon Wan Ho, Li Xuerui clinch India Open titles
Olympic-bound shuttler Shon Wan Ho of Korea showcased a stunning display of true grit to shock defending champion Lee Chong Wei in the summit clash and clinch his maiden Super Series title, at the India Open badminton tournament in New Delhi on Sunday. Three Indian rowers book London Olympics berths
Indian rowers Swarn Singh Virk along with Manjeet Singh and Sandeep Kumar booked their berths in the upcoming London Olympics after winning their individual events in the Asian Olympic Qualifiers at Chung Ju, Korea. NBA: Rose injury gives Bulls major concern

Chicago and Miami opened the National Basketball Association post-season with comfortable wins on Saturday but the Bulls paid a steep price for their victory when Derrick Rose was ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury.

Aditya wins Asian Snooker Championship
Aditya Mehta stunned fancied compatriot Pankaj Advani to become only the third Indian ever to clinch the Asian Snooker Championships in Doha.

April 28, 2012

EPL: Wigan rocks Newcastle's hopes

Wigan Athletic dented Newcastle United's dreams of a Champions League place next season and boosted their own Premier League survival hopes after a stunning 4-0 win at the DW Stadium on Saturday.

Indian campaign ends as Kashyap loses in semi-final
India's P Kashyap's gritty performance before losing to world No 17 Shon Wan Ho of Korea in a three-game thriller to draw curtains on Indian campaign at the Yonex Sunrise India Open Super Series, in New Delhi, on Saturday. I-League: Pailan Arrows register second win
Pailan Arrows floored HAL Bangalore 2-1 to ensure second successive victory in an I-League encounter at the Bangalore Football Stadium on Saturday. Southampton promoted to Premier League
Southampton returned to the Premier League after a seven year absence when they beat Coventry City 4-0 on Saturday to clinch second place in the Championship (second division) and take the remaining automatic promotion spot. Monika finishes sixth in Asian Ch'ship
The 2010 CWG bronze medallist Monika Devi was the best placed Indian so far at the ongoing Senior Asian Weightlifting Championships with a sixth place finish but an Olympic quota remains elusive for the country. NBA: Win or bust for James and Heat as playoffs begin

The Miami Heat and LeBron James begin an all-or-nothing campaign for an NBA title while defending champion Dallas Mavericks and Kirk Nowitzki face a tough start to the opening weekend of the playoffs.

Disgraced cyclist Landis subject of fraud investigation

Bicyclist Floyd Landis, stripped of his 2006 Tour de France win after testing positive for testosterone, is the subject of a federal investigation into a $450,000 ( 276,582) defence fund he created and later abandoned, a legal source said on Friday.

April 27, 2012

Kashyap qualifies for Olympics after Chen Jin walkover
In a dramatic turn of events, Indian shuttler P Kashyap edged past Ajay Jayaram to qualify for the London Olympics after Chen Jin of China gave him a walkover in the quarter-finals of the Indian Open Super Series because of a wrist injury, in New Delhi on Friday. London Paralympics: 12 Indian athletes qualify
As many as 12 Indian athletes have qualified for the 2012 London Paralympics as the country finished an impressive second at the first Malaysian Para Athletics Championships, which concluded on Friday. India Open: Sindhu goes down fighting against World No. 7
Rising shuttler P V Sindhu showed indomitable spirit before going down fighting against World No. 7 Yanjiao Jiang of China in the women's singles quarter-final of the India Open Super Series, in New Delhi on Friday. Wrestler Sushil seals London berth

Former World champion and Beijing Olympics bronze medalist wrestler, Sushil Kumar finally managed to seal his London Olympics berth after winning the 66kg freestyle title at the World Qualifying Tournament in Taiyuan, China on Friday.

Five facts about new Barca coach Vilanova

Five facts about Tito Vilanova, who will take over as Barcelona coach from Pep Guardiola at the end of the season.

India need to play top teams consistently: Nobbs

India need to play top-ranked teams on a consistent basis if they wish to return among the top league of world hockey, feels chief coach Michael Nobbs.

IOA welcomes Tendulkar's nomination to Rajya Sabha
Indian Olympic Association welcomed the government's nomination of Sachin Tendulkar for a Rajya Sabha seat, saying the IOA is happy that its long-standing demand to include sportspersons in the Upper House has been accepted. Guardiola quits Barcelona, Vilanova takes over

Barcelona's most successful manager Pep Guardiola will walk away from the Catalans at the end of the season and will be replaced by his assistant Tito Vilanova, the club announced on Friday.

India Open Super Series: Saina crashes out

Saina Nehwal suffered a stunning straight-game defeat in the second round but P Kashyap and P V Sindhu advanced to the quarterfinals of the India Open Super Series in New Delhi on Thursday.

April 26, 2012

Barcelona's Xavi out for 15 days
Barcelona playmaker Xavi will be out of action for around 15 days with a damaged left calf muscle, the Spanish champions said on Thursday. India Open: Kashyap keeps Olympic dream alive
Locked in a battle of qualification for the London Olympics, compatriots P Kashyap and Ajay Jayaram witnessed contrasting results with the former scripting a resounding win and the latter suffering a close defeat in the India Open Super Series Badminton in New Delhi on Thursday. Asian weightlifting: Medal hope Ravi finish 3rd
India's chances of grabbing a London Olympics berth in weightlifting suffered a blow as their main medal hope Katulu Ravi Kumar finished sixth in men's 69kg category on the third day of Senior Asian weightlifting championships at Pyeongtaek, South Korea, on Thursday. FA Cup: Liverpool's Adam to miss final
Liverpool's Charlie Adam will miss the FA Cup final against Chelsea on May 5 after having his season cut short by a knee injury, manager Kenny Dalglish said on Thursday.

April 25, 2012

HC directs Centre to hold elections to all sport bodies
The Delhi high court on Wednesday directed the Centre to hold elections that are overdue in all sports federations. India Open: Saina, Jayaram, Kashyap, Neha sail into 2nd round
Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal notched up a comfortable straight-game victory over Hong Kong's Pui Yin Yip to start her India Open Super Series campaign on a positive note, in New Delhi, on Wednesday. Kenya omit World record holder Makau from London team
World marathon record holder Patrick Makau was left out of the Kenyan men's team named on Wednesday for the London Olympics after he failed to finish last Sunday's London marathon. I-League: Pailan Arrows rout Chirag Kerala

Pailan Arrows defeated Chirag United Kerala 3-0 to register their first win in the I-League.

NBA: Jazz into playoffs
The Utah Jazz grabbed the final spot in the Western Conference playoffs with a 100-88 home victory over Phoenix, dashing the Suns' own post-season hopes on Tuesday.

April 24, 2012

Soniya bags bronze in Asian Weightlifting
N Soniya Chanu bagged a bronze in women's 48kg category to open India's medal account on the opening day of Senior Asian Weightlifting Championships at Pyeongtaek, South Korea.

April 23, 2012

Asian snooker: Aditya Mehta scores third win
India's Aditya Mehta registered his third victory with a 4-0 thrashing of Karam Fatima of Syria, in the 28th Asian Snooker Championships in Doha, Qatar, on Monday. London 2012 doping lab gets WADA approval
The doping laboratory that will process more than 6,000 samples at this year's London Olympics has been given the seal of approval by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Van Persie named PFA player of year

Arsenal striker Robin van Persie was named the English Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) player of the year on Sunday after scoring 27 league goals to revive his club's season.

NBA: Spurs set for top seed, blow to world peace in LA win
The San Antonio Spurs moved to within one victory of securing the Western Conference top seed for the playoffs on Sunday as the NBA's leading contenders continued to jostle for position in the final week of the regular season.

April 22, 2012

High jumper Thomas steals show in Fed Cup Athletics
Kerala's Jithin Thomas stole the limelight with a personal best effort of 2.20m en route to his gold medal in the men's high jump on the second day of the Federation Cup Senior National Athletics Championships in Patiala on Sunday. Ministry raps WFI over wrestler Geetika's complaint
Taking a serious note of Geetika Jakhar's complaint, the Sports Ministry has sought an explanation from the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for calling a retrial even after she won the recently-concluded trials for next month's Olympic Qualifiers in Helsinki, Finland. NBA: Rose returns, Bulls move closer to East title
Derrick Rose returned to the lineup to help Chicago Bulls beat the Dallas Mavericks 93-83 on Saturday and increase their lead over the Miami Heat in the race for the Eastern Conference's top seed. Paddler Ankita youngest Indian to qualify for Olympics
Bengal paddlers Soumyajit Ghosh and Ankita Das booked their London Olympics berths on the concluding day of the Asian Olympic Qualification Table Tennis Tournament in Hong Kong, but it was a real heartbreak for top paddler Achanta Sharath Kamal. Kipsang wins London marathon
Kenyan Wilson Kipsang, the second-fastest man ever, won the men's London marathon on Sunday in an unofficial of two hours four minutes 44 seconds. Branden Grace wins China Open, joins elite club
South African Branden Grace lifted the China Open on Sunday with a closing three-under-par 69 and became only the second European Tour player to win three titles in the season after coming through the qualifying school.

April 21, 2012

Dubai Open chess: Gupta, Negi in joint lead
Grandmaster and defending champion Abhijeet Gupta showcased his positional acumen to outwit Grandmaster Amin Bassem of Egypt in the sixth round of 14th Dubai International Open chess tournament in Dubai. Maheshwary qualifies for London Olympics

The 26-year-old had a leap of 16.85m in his fifth and penultimate attempt which was the exact distance for 'B' qualification standard for London Olympics.

World Cup: Lackluster performance from Bindra, Narang
It didn't quite turn out to be a good day for Abhinav Bindra and Gangan Narang as the two Indian marksmen missed the final after scoring an identical 596 in the Shooting World Cup in London on Saturday. Indian women hold New Zealand 3-3 in hockey
India held New Zealand 3-3 in their last preliminary match of the second-leg Women Four Nation Hockey Tournament in Pakuranga, Auckland on Saturday. Sharath Kamal loses in Asian table tennis qualifiers
Indian ace Achanta Sharath Kamal will have to wait for another match to book a ticket for the London Olympics as he succumbed 0-4 to Chinese world number one Ma Long in the Asian table tennis qualifiers in Hong Kong. Semenya qualifies for London Olympics

Former world 800 metres champion Caster Semenya qualified for the London Olympics on Friday when she eased to victory in one minute 59.58 seconds at a Yellow Pages Series meeting.

April 20, 2012

101-year-old Fauja to end career at London Marathon

Fauja Singh has completed eight marathons since he took up the sport at the age of 89.

NBA: Bulls feel the Heat in Miami

The Miami Heat defeated the Chicago Bulls 83-72 in an ill-tempered and physical encounter between the top two teams in the Eastern Conference on Thursday.

Barca v Real: The El Clasico in numbers

Following is a factbox detailing key numbers around Spain's El Clasico between Real Madrid and Barcelona. The arch rivals meet at Barca's Nou Camp stadium in La Liga on Saturday in a match that could decide the destination of the title. Real have a four-point lead with five games left.

Falcao double gives Atletico semi-final edge
Atletico Madrid have one foot in the final of the Europa League after a Radamel Falcao double fired the 2010 winners to a 4-2 semi-final first leg win at home to La Liga rivals Valencia on Thursday. Raul to leave Schalke 04 at end of season
Schalke 04 forward Raul is to leave at the end of the season when his contract expires, the Bundesliga club said on Thursday.

April 19, 2012

Asian badminton: Saina crashes out as India draw a blank

Ace shuttler and world number five Saina Nehwal on Thursday crashed out in the second round of the Asia Badminton Championship at Qingdao, China as India wrapped up their campaign on a disappointing note in the tournament.

Thought of quitting when Olympic dream ended: Suranjoy

His Olympic dreams shattered, one of Indian boxing's most successful names -- M Suranjoy Singh (52kg) -- thought of quitting the sport after losing in the Asian Qualifiers' second round last month but decided to keep going after hearing the national anthem at a medal ceremony.

Drogba gives Chelsea 1-0 win over Barcelona
Didier Drogba scored late in the first half and Chelsea kept free-scoring Lionel Messi in check to secure a 1-0 win over holders Barcelona in their Champions League semi-final first leg on Wednesday. OGQ signs up Keshavan for Winter Olympics 2014

Shiva Keshavan is India's only known and accomplished face at the Winter Olympic Games, and has been so for 14 years now, when he first qualified for the Nagano Olympic Games in 1998 at the age of 16.

Saina cruises, Jwala-Ponnappa lose

Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal crossed the first hurdle with a straight-game victory but India overall had a bitter-sweet day at the Asia Badminton Championship.

April 18, 2012

FIFA bans Indonesia coach for bribe remark
Former Indonesia caretaker coach Aji Santoso has been banned for four games for suggestions of bribery to match officials in a humiliating 10-0 World Cup qualifying defeat by Bahrain in February, local media reported on Wednesday. Bengal shooter wants Ganguly to cheer him in Olympics
Olympics-bound Bengal shooter Joydeep Karmakar hopes that former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly comes to London to cheer him and his fellow shooters during the mega-event. NBA: Spurs give Lakers taste of their own medicine
San Antonio made amends for last week's stinging home loss to Los Angeles by trouncing the Lakers 112-91 on their home court on Tuesday. Reading secure promotion to Premier League
Reading capped a remarkable run of form by securing promotion back to the Premier League on Tuesday after a 1-0 victory at home to Nottingham Forest guaranteed a top-two finish in the Championship (second division). Turkey submits bid to host Euro 2020
Turkey submitted its bid to host the 2020 European Championship, less than a month after Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan began the race to stage one of soccer's biggest tournaments. Bayern's first goal offside, says Mourinho

Jose Mourinho refused to comment on the performance of English referee Howard Webb in his side's 2-1 Champions League semi-final first leg defeat by Bayern Munich on Tuesday, except to say that the Bavarians' first goal was offside.

CL: Late Gomez strike gives Bayern win over Real

Striker Mario Gomez pounced from close range in the final minute to give Bayern Munich a 2-1 victory over Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final on Tuesday.

April 17, 2012

Bhutia's United Sikkim earn I-League ticket
United Sikkim Football Club (USFC) played a 1-1 draw against Kolkata's Mohammedan Sporting in Gangtok to qualify for next edition's I-League. Asian badminton: Jayaram scores, Kashyap loses
India's Ajay Jayaram kept his nose ahead of compatriot P Kashyap for the London Olympics qualification as he notched a straight-game victory in the first round of Asia Badminton Championships in Qingdao, China, on Tuesday. Jayaram was the only bright spot on a gloomy day for India as the rest of the country's shuttlers failed to cross the first hurdle at the Qingdao Sports Centre Conson stadium. NBA: Clippers silence Thunder to end playoff drought
The streaking Los Angeles Clippers knocked Oklahoma City out of first place in the West with a forceful 92-77 victory on Monday that earned the hosts a first playoff berth in six years.

April 16, 2012

Indian shuttlers hoping to garner points from ABC

With just two tournaments left for Olympic qualification, Indian contenders for the London Games are looking to rake up ranking points at the Asian Badminton Championships, beginning in Qingdao, China, on Tuesday.

NBA: James, Wade lift Heat past Knicks
LeBron James and Dwyane Wade combined for 57 points to help the Miami Heat overcome the New York Knicks 93-85 on Sunday and clinch the Southeast Division in a possible preview for the NBA playoffs.

April 15, 2012

Italian player's death sparks probes into ambulance delay

The death of Italian second division soccer player Piermario Morosini during a game on Saturday has triggered investigations into a delay in the ambulance's arrival and calls for more medical equipment at sporting events.

Malaysian Open: Jeev, Jyoti finish tied 11th
Jeev Milkha Singh was unable to continue the momentum of a brilliant start with four birdies, while Jyoti Randhawa dropped five shots over two successive holes on the back nine to finish tied 11th in the Maybank Malaysian Open, in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday. La Liga: Valencia stumble to 4-0 defeat at Espanyol
Third-placed Valencia missed a chance to open a five-point lead over chasing Malaga when the Europa League semi-finalists crashed to a 4-0 reverse at Espanyol in La Liga on Sunday. Gebrselassie beats Radcliffe in Vienna head-to-head

Ethiopian Haile Gebrselassie beat Britain's Paula Radcliffe in their half marathon head-to-head in Vienna on Sunday.

I-League: Dempo drub Sporting Clube 4-1

Ranti Martins scored all of his team's goals as Dempo Sports Club floored Sporting Clube de Goa 4-1 and ensured they have more than just a hand on the I-League trophy in the 25th round I-League encounter at the Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, Goa on Sunday.

'National team needs time to get used to world level'

Indian football icon Bhaichung Bhutia said the national team should be given enough time in order to make an impact on the international arena.

Four-Nation Tournament: India lose 0-1 to Australia
India put up a fighting performance but could not avert a defeat, going down 0-1 to Australia in the last round-robin league match of the first phase of a four-nation women's hockey tournament in Auckland on Sunday. Force India misses points at Chinese GP
Sahara Force India missed out on points for the first time this season with Paul di Resta finishing 12th and Nico Hulkenberg ending 15th at the Chinese Grand Prix, in Shanghai, on Sunday. Poor start by Olympic hopefuls in archery
It was a none-too-impressive beginning to the Olympic calendar year for Indian archers as they finished with a solitary silver medal in the World Cup Stage I, which concluded in Shanghai on Sunday. Bolt, Blake put on show of speed in Jamaica

Jamaican triple Olympic champion Usain Bolt opened his 2012 season with a sizzling anchor leg as his Racers Track Club logged a World leading time of 37.82 seconds in a 4x100 metres relay, in Kingston on Saturday.

La Liga: Ronaldo, Messi set scoring record of 41

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi took their remarkable scoring achievements to new heights when they jointly set a record for La Liga goals in a season of 41 on Saturday.

April 14, 2012

Livorno's Morosini dies, Italian games postponed

Livorno's Piermario Morosini has died after collapsing on the pitch with a cardiac arrest during an Italian second division game at Pescara on Saturday, prompting the soccer federation to postpone this weekend's professional games.

FA Cup: Carroll heads Liverpool into final

Liverpool striker Andy Carroll headed an 87th minute winner to secure a 2-1 victory over Merseyside rivals Everton in an error-strewn FA Cup semi-final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday.

I-League: Salgaocar hold Mohun Bagan 1-1

Salgaocar Sports Club staged a second half recovery to hold Mohun Bagan 1-1 in the 25th round I-league clash at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, Goa, on Saturday.

Pregnant Malaysian shooter keen to deliver in London

The 29-year-old from Perak, situated 200 kilometres north of Malaysia's capital Kuala Lumpur, is due to give birth to her first child on September 2, less than a month after the Games end.

EPL: Manchester City thrash Norwich

Carlos Tevez fired a hat-trick and fellow Argentine Sergio Aguero scored twice as Manchester City thrashed Norwich City 6-1 to move within two points of Premier League leaders Manchester United on Saturday.

Pistorius Olympic quest suffers setback

Oscar Pistorius' bid to be the first amputee competing on the track at the Olympic Games suffered a setback when he came seventh in the 400 metres final at the South African championship on Saturday.

Women archers win bronze in World Cup
The Indian women's recurve team of Deepika Kumari, Laishram Bombayla Devi and Chekrovolu Swuro settled for a silver medal after being tamed by Korea in the Archery World Cup Stage I in Shanghai on Sunday. Radcliffe to race against Gebrselassie in Vienna

Britain's Paula Radcliffe will be given a head start of seven minutes and 52 seconds when she takes on Ethiopian Haile Gebrselassie in a unique half marathon chase race in Vienna.

NBA: Bobcats crash and burn against Heat
The Miami Heat were without starters Dwyane Wade and Udonis Haslem but still feasted on the league's worst team, handing the Charlotte Bobcats a 15th consecutive loss in a 105-82 home romp on Friday. Wanted gold to hear national anthem: Shiva

Just being in the final was enough to fetch him an Olympic berth at the Asian Qualifiers but teen Indian boxer Shiva Thapa (56kg) on Saturday said his target was never j