Swann wants England to silence Indian crowd

Updated at: 2131 PST,  Thursday, February 24, 2011

Graeme Swann wants to silence the passionate home crowd when England face World Cup co-hosts India in Bangalore on Sunday.
The Ashes-winning off-spinner returned to international action for the first time since the birth of his son with an impressive two for 35 during England's tournament-opening six-wicket win over the Netherlands on Tuesday.But the 31-year-old's bowling was one of the few highlights in a lacklustre display in the field littered with dropped catches and wayward fast bowling on a good batting pitch.India launched their campaign with an 87-run victory away to fellow co-hosts Bangladesh in Dhaka and are strongly fancied to add a second title to their 1983 World Cup trophy in front of their adoring fans."The fact it's against India in India is going to make it a huge game," said Swann after England saw off the Dutch with eight balls to spare."We had a very poor time of things in the one-day series here a couple of years ago, so that's certainly something we want to turn around because there is nothing better than silencing an Indian crowd.""You don't want them to be screaming all day because its ear-shattering. Come Bangalore it will be a huge game and one we will need to raise our standards for, particularly in the field because, let's face it, we were like a bunch of schoolboys (against the Netherlands)."The worst moment was when Dutch all-rounder Ryan ten Doeschate, who went on to make a century, skied Swann on 47 only for James Anderson at long-on and Kevin Pietersen at long-off to leave the chance to each other as the ball fell safely between them."They both got the glare," Swann said. "When it goes 80 yards in the air and two of your best fielders stand and watch it land between them, it's never great as a bowler but I can't really complain because I dropped that high swirler near the end. Everything evens itself out."Swann was England's lone spinner in a match where the frontline quicks, especially Anderson, whose 10 wicketless overs cost 72 runs, proved expensive.England do have another slow bowler in left-armer Michael Yardy who, like Swann, performed well in the team that won the World Twenty20 in the Caribbean last year.Swann though warned it was a mistake to think Indian pitches offered excessive help to spinners."I think it is hit or miss in India with spin. People always say that spin plays a massive part and wickets turn square over here. They don't and there was a little bit of spin (against the Netherlands) but it wasn't huge."Swann, who had been struggling with a knee injury, was pleased by the way he bowled upon returning to international cricket "I'm delighted because I've let the team down a couple of times before after a bit of a break and promised I wouldn't do it this time, so I'm glad I lived up to my word."Swann joined up late with the squad following the birth of his son, Wilfred, and he admitted: "Within two days of the little fellow coming into the world I'm saying a teary goodbye. That's our lot as international cricketers.""On the plus side, I get to come here to play in a World Cup so in 18 years' time when he is giving me grief for not being there for the first six weeks I'll be able to say but I had to go and beat Holland."

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Bangladesh mull Ashraful option

Updated at: 2131 PST,  Thursday, February 24, 2011

Bangladesh are considering playing former captain Mohammad Ashraful in the key World Cup game against Ireland that could make or break the co-hosts' campaign.The right-hander, Bangladesh's most successful one-day batsman, was a surprise omission for their opening match last Friday which India won by 87 runs at the Sher-e-Bangla stadium in Dhaka.Coach Jamie Siddons said the free-stroking Ashraful stood a good chance of playing against Ireland even as the Bangladeshi media reported the batsman had already been told he will take the field."There's a chance, but it's one of a few options we have," the Australian said. "We will consider all our options, one of which is also sticking to the same team and give everyone another chance."Ashraful has played 164 one-day internationals since his debut in 2001, scoring 3,360 runs with three centuries and 20 fifties.But his less than impressive average of 23.33 suggests Ashraful has not done justice to his immense talent, often frustrating supporters by getting out to rash strokes when he had the bowling attack at his mercy."I am an Ashraful fan and of course I'd like to see him play," said Siddons. "He has all the shots and could be effective during the powerplay overs.""He generally bats two down but we are thinking of using him in the number seven position if he plays."Ashraful could replace off-spinner Naeem Islam, or even seamer Rubel Hossain if Bangladesh prefer to attack Ireland with spin on the slow track.Bangladesh must beat both the non-Test nations, Ireland and the Netherlands, and one of the established sides from England, South Africa and the West Indies, to progress to the next round.Siddons admitted victory over Ireland would be the key to his team's progress in the tournament."It's a huge game, if we lose we are almost out," he said. "We didn't pencil in the India game, we wanted to give them a go, but we have pencilled in the Ireland game and West Indies as well.""We are confident and we think we can win."Bangladesh know only too well that Ireland, the leading non-Test side, are no pushovers.The gritty Irish defeated Bangladesh by 74 runs in the Super Eights round in the 2007 World Cup in the Caribbean and then won by six wickets in the World Twenty20 in England in 2009.

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Ponting reprimanded for ICC Code of Conduct breach

Updated at: 2131 PST,  Thursday, February 24, 2011

Australia captain Ricky Ponting has been reprimanded for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during his team's ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 match against Zimbabwe in Ahmedabad.Ponting accepted the Level 1 charge and the proposed sanction from Roshan Mahanama of the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees after an incident was brought to the ICC's attention through the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Gujarat Cricket Association.He was found to have breached clause 2.1.2 of the code which relates to "abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an international match". The charge was brought by the chairman of the Event Technical Committee David Richardson on behalf of the ICC Chief Executive, in accordance with the regulations.The incident occurred shortly after Ponting was run out in the match when he caused some damage to a television set in the team dressingroom. The damage occurred when he threw down a piece of equipment which bounced off his kit bag and hit the corner of the television."Ricky knows that his action was in breach of the code, involving a brief moment of frustration. That said, it was clear that the damage he caused was purely accidental and without malice, he apologized shortly after the incident at the ground and immediately agreed to pay for the damage," said Mr Mahanama.As Ponting accepted the offence and the proposed sanction, there was no need to convene a formal hearing. Level 1 offences carry penalties ranging from an official reprimand to 50 per cent of a player's match fee.

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De Villiers, Smith guide Protease to easy win

Updated at: 2131 PST,  Thursday, February 24, 2011

NEW DELHI: AB de Villiers and captain Graeme Smith guided South Africa to an easy seven-wicket victory over the West Indies in a World Cup Group B match here at the Feroz Shah Kotla stadium on Thursday.Chasing a modest total of 223, South Africa lost two early wickets for only 20 runs. Kemar Roach got Hashim Amla caught behind for 14 and Sulieman Benn dismissed Jaquis Kallis for four.However, opener Graeme Smith and AB de Villiers rescued the Proteas, making together 119 runs for the third wicket partnership Smith’s patient innings ended when Kieron Pollard bowled him for 45, made from 78 balls. De Villiers was joined by Jean-Paul Duminy and both cruised South Africa to a comfortable win with 44 balls remaining but not before de Villiers completed his tenth ODI hundred from 97 balls.He remained unbeaten on 107 while Duminy was 42 not out.Earlier, leg-spinner Imran Tahir snared four wickets on debut as South Africa bundled out the West Indies for 222 off 47.3 overs despite a fine 73 by Darren Bravo.Tahir (4-41) was well supported by off-spinner Johan Botha who opened the attack and gave the Proteas key breakthroughs in the spin-dominated day-night clash at the Feroz Shah Kotla stadium.The duo justified the decision of captain Graeme Smith to field three specialist spinners on a ground which is hosting its first international in a year after being banned for a dangerous playing surface.Darren Bravo led the West Indies charge with his 82-ball knock while his older half-brother Dwayne chipped in with a 37-ball 40 with three sixes and a four after the Caribbean side were put in to bat.Bravo also shared 111 runs for the second wicket with opener Devon Smith after the early dismissal of Chris Gayle.Botha, sharing the new ball with fast bowler Dale Steyn, struck off the third ball of the innings to remove Gayle who tried to play on the leg-side but edged it to first slip where Jacques Kallis took a low catch.Botha (2-48) struck again in the 24th over, just when Bravo and Smith were threatening to put up a huge partnership.Bravo tried to flick the bowler but missed the shot and was rightly adjudged leg before wicket. He hit eight fours and a six.Tahir, 31, picked up his first wicket in one-day internationals in his third over when he caught Smith (36) off his own bowling and celebrated it by kissing the South African badge on his shirt.The Pakistan-born bowler picked up another wicket in his next over when he had the veteran Ramnaresh Sarwan (two) trapped lbw.Sarwan asked for a review of the decision but replays showed the ball would have hit the top of the middle stump.Tahir was unlucky not to collect a third wicket just three balls later, grassing a return catch off Dwayne Bravo despite a spirited attempt.He was not to be denied for long though, removing Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Devon Thomas with his guile and precision before Steyn (3-24) sent back Kieron Pollard, Darren Sammy and Sulieman Benn in a quick three-wicket burst.

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Debutant Tahir restricts West Indies to 222

Updated at: 1751 PST,  Thursday, February 24, 2011

NEW DELHI: Leg-spinner Imran Tahir snared four wickets on debut as South Africa bundled out the West Indies for 222 off 47.3 overs despite a fine 73 by Darren Bravo in a World Cup Group B match on Thursday.

Tahir (4-41) was well supported by off-spinner Johan Botha who opened the attack and gave the Proteas key breakthroughs in the spin-dominated day-night clash at the Feroz Shah Kotla stadium.The duo justified the decision of captain Graeme Smith to field three specialist spinners on a ground which is hosting its first international in a year after being banned for a dangerous playing surface.

Darren Bravo led the West Indies charge with his 82-ball knock while his older half-brother Dwayne chipped in with a 37-ball 40 with three sixes and a four after the Caribbean side were put in to bat.Bravo also shared 111 runs for the second wicket with opener Devon Smith after the early dismissal of Chris Gayle.Botha, sharing the new ball with fast bowler Dale Steyn, struck off the third ball of the innings to remove Gayle who tried to play on the leg-side but edged it to first slip where Jacques Kallis took a low catch.Botha (2-48) struck again in the 24th over, just when Bravo and Smith were threatening to put up a huge partnership.Bravo tried to flick the bowler but missed the shot and was rightly adjudged leg before wicket. He hit eight fours and a six.Tahir, 31, picked up his first wicket in one-day internationals in his third over when he caught Smith (36) off his own bowling and celebrated it by kissing the South African badge on his shirt.The Pakistan-born bowler picked up another wicket in his next over when he had the veteran Ramnaresh Sarwan (two) trapped lbw.Sarwan asked for a review of the decision but replays showed the ball would have hit the top of the middle stump.Tahir was unlucky not to collect a third wicket just three balls later, grassing a return catch off Dwayne Bravo despite a spirited attempt.He was not to be denied for long though, removing Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Devon Thomas with his guile and precision before Steyn (3-24) sent back Kieron Pollard, Darren Sammy and Sulieman Benn in a quick three-wicket burst.The West Indies opted for just one specialist spinner in Sulieman Benn for the day-night clash.South Africa, three-time World Cup semi-finalists, have won their last 11 matches against the West Indies, champions in 1975 and 1979.

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South Africa win toss, put Windies into bat

Updated at: 1342 PST,  Thursday, February 24, 2011
NEW DELHI: South Africa captain Graeme Smith won the toss and elected to field in the World Cup Group B match against the West Indies at the Feroz Shah Kotla stadium on Thursday.South Africa went in with three specialist spinners in Johan Botha, Robin Peterson and the uncapped Imran Tahir.The West Indies opted for just one specialist spinner in Sulieman Benn for the day-night clash.South Africa, three-time World Cup semi-finalists, have won their last 11 matches against the West Indies, champions in 1975 and 1979.South Africa: Graeme Smith (captain), Hashim Amla, Johan Botha, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Faf du Plessis, Jacques Kallis, Morne Morkel, Robin Peterson, Dale Steyn, Imran Tahir.West Indies: Darren Sammy (captain), Devon Thomas, Sulieman Benn, Darren Bravo, Dwayne Bravo, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard, Kemar Roach, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Devon Smith.Umpires: Simon Taufel (AUS) and Amish Saheba (IND), Third Umpire: Asoka de Silva (SL)
Match Referee: Jeff Crowe (NZ) 

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First worth-watching match as SA take on WI

Updated at: 0225 PST,  Thursday, February 24, 2011

NEW DELHI: South Africa and West Indies are seeking to shed the weight of past foibles and forge new ground in this World Cup. For days now, both camps have been kept busy denying the pressure of expectation. For Graeme Smith's men, it has been a constant attempt to talk down the tag of being nervous wrecks at the crunch. They seem aware that unless they can win a title now, that tag will be an uncomfortable part of even future South African lineups. For the West Indies, a motley crew led by a young skipper, it is all about breaking free from unjustified comparisons with the great teams of the past. Their path to redemption begins with the first encounter at the Ferozeshah Kotla on Thursday, on a new surface which hasn't really been tested and might bring all their pluck and application into play. The Kotla too is looking to break free from past imperfections and ensure an even playing field which will restore the ground's dimmed reputation. Although South Africa go in as favourites and are a more complete and dynamic line-up on paper, the West Indies have, time and again, proven a stumbling block for them in World Cups and other ICC events. Last time around in the subcontinent back in 1996, a sublime Lara and Roger Harper put paid to their campaign in the quarters. At home in 2003, a three-run loss to Carl Hooper's men in the group stage again raised questions about lack of steel. In that other major event, the Champions Trophy, the Windies have had the last laugh twice. When it hasn't been Australia (2007 World Cup semis and in 1999) or India (2007 World T20) or bizarre rain rules, the West Indies have been SA's bugbear. Smith is aware the team can do little if one of the game-changers like Chris Gayle has a good day: "I think consistency-wise, they haven't been as good. But they have match-winners and that's why playing them in a one-off game makes them dangerous. They have guys who on their day can really punish you and take the game away. That's why in Cup competitions, they are a very dangerous opponent to come up against." That said, the South Africans have had the best preparation they could have asked for, a batting lineup to die for, a formidable pace battery and even a trio of spinners with Imran Tahir providing the surprise package. Given the scenario, only tactical mistakes with the playing XI need to be avoided. WI skipper Darren Sammy, on the other hand, is hoping his team will at least get through to the quarters without embarrassment. His team, which hasn't beaten a top side in almost 18 months, will slip to ninth in the rankings if they lose so it's really all about saving face. Sammy, to many a skipper by default following internal fissures, is hoping the seniors will come to the party. "We just want to see West Indies play like they did in the 1980s. We need to play to our full potential. I would rather have consistency than flamboyance." (Online)

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RSA v WI Pak v Ken Eng v NED

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First worth-watching match as SA take on WI

Updated at: 0225 PST,  Thursday, February 24, 2011

NEW DELHI: South Africa and West Indies are seeking to shed the weight of past foibles and forge new ground in this World Cup. For days now, both camps have been kept busy denying the pressure of expectation. For Graeme Smith's men, it has been a constant attempt to talk down the tag of being nervous wrecks at the crunch.They seem aware that unless they can win a title now, that tag will be an uncomfortable part of even future South African lineups. For the West Indies, a motley crew led by a young skipper, it is all about breaking free from unjustified comparisons with the great teams of the past. Their path to redemption begins with the first encounter at the Ferozeshah Kotla on Thursday, on a new surface which hasn't really been tested and might bring all their pluck and application into play. The Kotla too is looking to break free from past imperfections and ensure an even playing field which will restore the ground's dimmed reputation. Although South Africa go in as favourites and are a more complete and dynamic line-up on paper, the West Indies have, time and again, proven a stumbling block for them in World Cups and other ICC events. Last time around in the subcontinent back in 1996, a sublime Lara and Roger Harper put paid to their campaign in the quarters. At home in 2003, a three-run loss to Carl Hooper's men in the group stage again raised questions about lack of steel. In that other major event, the Champions Trophy, the Windies have had the last laugh twice. When it hasn't been Australia (2007 World Cup semis and in 1999) or India (2007 World T20) or bizarre rain rules, the West Indies have been SA's bugbear. Smith is aware the team can do little if one of the game-changers like Chris Gayle has a good day: "I think consistency-wise, they haven't been as good. But they have match-winners and that's why playing them in a one-off game makes them dangerous. They have guys who on their day can really punish you and take the game away. That's why in Cup competitions, they are a very dangerous opponent to come up against." That said, the South Africans have had the best preparation they could have asked for, a batting lineup to die for, a formidable pace battery and even a trio of spinners with Imran Tahir providing the surprise package. Given the scenario, only tactical mistakes with the playing XI need to be avoided. WI skipper Darren Sammy, on the other hand, is hoping his team will at least get through to the quarters without embarrassment. His team, which hasn't beaten a top side in almost 18 months, will slip to ninth in the rankings if they lose so it's really all about saving face. Sammy, to many a skipper by default following internal fissures, is hoping the seniors will come to the party. "We just want to see West Indies play like they did in the 1980s. We need to play to our full potential. I would rather have consistency than flamboyance." (Online)

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Cricket World Cup: Pakistan grapple with Sri Lanka M-factor

Updated at: 0930 PST,  Thursday, February 24, 2011

COLOMBO: Pakistan will look to blunt Lasith Malinga and wily off-spinner Muttiah Muralitharan in their Group A encounter against Sri Lanka on Saturday, with captain Shahid Afridi confident of a win.

Co-hosts Sri Lanka, champions in 1996, and 1992 winners Pakistan are off to flying starts in the tournament with convincing wins against minnows Canada and Kenya, and are primed for their first big match."I am confident that we are up to the Sri Lankan challenge and ready for anything they throw at us, whether its Malinga or Muralitharan," said Afridi.Muralitharan, who has a world record 521 wickets in 342 one-day internationals, has a tally of 95 against Pakistan in 64 matches, and is even more dangerous in home conditions."In Sri Lankan conditions and pitches, he (Muralitharan) is always very dangerous and he could probably turn the ball on the marble as well. He has so much experience and knows conditions well and that's why he is the best," said Afridi.Afridi said Malinga, renowned for his slingy action, would find it tough after missing the Canada match due to a back strain."Malinga is a very good bowler but he is coming back from an injury, so let's see how strong he is and how much he can adjust to the conditions," said Afridi.Malinga has just ten wickets in nine matches against Pakistan including a best of 5-34.Pakistan have also handled spinner Ajantha Mendis well. He has ten wickets against them in six matches.Afridi hoped the sell-out match would be entertaining in a World Cup that needs a blockbuster clash between two of the big guns."It will be a good game. If we bowl well, bat well and go with positive body language and show more readiness for the game and willingness to win, I am sure we can pull it off," said Afridi.Pakistan have never lost a World Cup match against Sri Lanka in six previous attempts but they were all before Sri Lanka became one of the top sides in the world game."The last match Sri Lanka played against us their fast bowlers did really well and they have a very good team combination. They've got good new guys in the side so we will have to play with our full strength and to win against them we need to give more than 100 percent effort," said Afridi.Pakistan will look to improve on their starts -- both in batting and bowling -- at the match in Colombo."We are not short on motivation and our energy levels are good," said Afridi, looking to restrict the in-form Mahela Jayawardene, who scored a match-winning hundred during the team's 210-run win over Canada.Besides Jayawardene, captain Kumar Sangakkara, Tillakaratne Dilshan and Upul Tharanga are in good form with the bat.Jayawardene acknowledged Pakistan were a dangerous side."They (Pakistan) are a very good side, so we look forward to playing Pakistan. The boys showed great attitude in the match against Canada," said Jayawardene.Sri Lanka will likely bring Malinga into the side in place of Thisara Perera, who took three wickets in the Canada match.Pakistan will try to squeeze in off-spinner Saeed Ajmal, who has not played since his father's death in January this year. (AFP)

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Pakistan crush Kenya to make flying start in WC

Updated at: 2049 PST,  Wednesday, February 23, 2011

HAMBANTOTA: Pakistan outclassed Kenya by a huge margin of 205 runs in their opening World Cup Group A match here at the Mahinda Rajapakse Stadium on Wednesday.Set an improbable target of 318 runs, Kenya were bundled out for a mere 112 runs in 33.1 overs.Captain Shahid Afridi was the main destroyer capturing five wickets for only 16 runs while Umar Gul claimed two for 12 and Mohammad Hafeez took one for 26.Collins Obuya was the main scorer for Kenya with 47 as only three other top order batsmen could enter into double figures.Earlier, captain Shahid Afridi won the toss and decided to bat but Pakistan made a disastrous start losing both their openers in seven overs.Mohammad Hafeez was the first to go, failing to keep a drive down as a diving Seren Waters picked up a beautiful catch at short mid-wicket.Two overs later, Ahmed Shahzad, who scored his first run after 13 deliveries, was caught by skipper Jimmy Kamande off Odoyo to leave Pakistan struggling at 12-2. However, wicketkeeper batsman Kamran Akmal and veteran batsman Younis Khan came to rescue and revived the innings through a solid 98-run stand.Kamran made 55, his ninth ODI fifty and Younis scored 50, his 40th ODI fifty.Later, Misbah-ul-Haq and Umar Akmal gave the innings the final flourish with a rapid fire 118-run stand for the fifth wicket adding 118 runs for the fifth wicket partnership.Misbah hit 65 from 69 balls with two sixes. This was his 13th ODI half-century. Umar Akmal, playing his first World Cup match, reached his seventh ODI fifty. He top scored with a 52-ball 71 with eight fours and a six.This was the fourth half century in Pakistan innings.Afridi made just seven runs and was dismissed lbw by Odoyo who finished with 3-41, conceding 20 in wides in a total of 46 extras.

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Pak v Ken Eng v NED Aus v Zim

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Sri Lanka eye return to Pakistan

Updated at: 1528 PST,  Wednesday, February 23, 2011

HAMBANTOTA: Pakistan's cricketing isolation could end in October if Sri Lanka, who were targeted in a deadly terror attack in Lahore two years ago, agree to tour the troubled country Sri Lankan officials said Wednesday they were in talks with the International Cricket Council's Pakistan Task Team (PTT) to explore the possibilities."We are still discussing the option with the ICC and with all the other board members," said Sri Lanka Cricket chairman Somachandra de Silva."There are still some security concerns in Pakistan but if things improve, and Pakistan is a brotherly nation, we can consider it - all depends on the ICC's clearance," De Silva said.Sri Lanka are scheduled to tour Pakistan in October this year under the Future Tests Programme.According to reports in the Pakistani media, the governments of both countries are already in talks to hold the series in Pakistan.The attacks on the Sri Lankan team bus on March 9, 2009, killed eight people and injured seven Sri Lankan players as well as their assistant coach, leading to the suspension of all international cricket in Pakistan.Barely a month later, the ICC stripped Pakistan of its share of World Cup matches, forcing the team to play all their Group A matches in Sri Lanka, co-hosts with India and Bangladesh.The suspension also meant Pakistan have been forced to play their home series in the United Arab Emirates, England and New Zealand for the last two years.The ICC formed the Pakistan Task Team (PTT) with England and Wales Cricket Board chairman Giles Clarke to find ways of reviving international cricket in Pakistan and to help improve the disciplinary situation. Even before the Lahore attacks, Pakistan was a no-go area for international teams because of security fears sparked in the wake of the 9/11 attacks on the United States which sparked a "war against terror" in and around the country.Australia have not toured Pakistan since 1998, forcing Pakistan to play their home series in Sri Lanka and Sharjah in 2002 and in England last year.Pakistan was also stripped of the right to host the 2008 Champions Trophy after Australia, South Africa and England refused to tour, forcing the ICC to move the tournament to South Africa, held in 2009.Meanwhile, De Silva said he hoped Hambantota will become a major cricket venue in Sri Lanka."It was only Colombo for the last two decades, but with Hambantota coming up for the World Cup matches we have brought cricket to the poor people and we will develop this," said the 68-year-old former Sri Lanka international.De Silva said the stadium - which became one-day cricket's 177th venue when Sri Lanka played Canada on Sunday - will also host a Test against Australia."We have decided to stage a Test in Hambantota against Australia when they tour in July this year and also one or two one-dayers in the same series. There is an option of staging World Twenty20 matches next year," said De Silva.Sri Lanka will host the fourth edition of World Twenty20 next year. (AFP)

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Kamran, Younis fight for Pak recovery

Updated at: 1604 PST,  Wednesday, February 23, 2011

HAMBANTOTA: After losing two early wickets for just 12 runs, Pakistan are fighting hard for recovery in Group A match of the ICC World Cup 2011 here at the Mahinda Rajapakse stadium on Wednesday.Wicketkeeper batsman Kamran Akmal and veteran batsman Younis Khan are batting on 41 and 28, respectively as Both the experienced batsmen have taken Pakistan out of trouble.Now, Pakistan are 87-2 after 20 overs.Earlier, captain Shahid Khan Afridi won the toss and decided to bat but their start was disastrous as both openers fell early to Kenyan pace-bowlers.Both Kenyan opening bowlers dominated the scene in early overs to keep Pakistan in pressure.First, Elijah Otieno removed Mohammad Hafeez, caught by Waters for nine when Pakistan were 11 on the board and in the next over, Thomas Odoyo dismissed Ahmed Shahzad for one.However, Kamran and Younis handled the situation and soon took their team out of trouble.In Group A, all teams except Pakistan have so far played one match each as Pakistan are going to play their first match in the tournament today.Pakistan chose left-arm spinner Abdur Rehman in addition to their three-man seam attack of Shoaib Akhtar, Umar Gul and Abdul Razzaq.Kenya, who crashed to New Zealand in their first match by 10 wickets after being shot out for 69 on Sunday, left out opener Alex Obanda and brought in Tanmay Mishar as the only change in their side.

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Pakistan in trouble as openers fall in early overs

Updated at: 1444 PST,  Wednesday, February 23, 2011

HAMBANTOTA: Kenyan pace-bowlers got rid off both Pakistani openers in early overs to dominate the scene in Group A match of the ICC World Cup 2011 here at the Mahinda Rajapakse stadium on Wednesday.First, Elijah Otieno removed Mohammad Hafeez, caught by Waters for nine when Pakistan were 11 on the board and in the next over, Thomas Odoyo dismissed Ahmed Shahzad for one. Thus, Pakistan lost two wickets for only 12 runs in seven overs. Earlier, Pakistan captain Shahid Khan Afridi won the toss and decided to bat.In Group A, all teams except Pakistan have so far played one match each as Pakistan are going to play their first match in the tournament today.Pakistan chose left-arm spinner Abdur Rehman in addition to their three-man seam attack of Shoaib Akhtar, Umar Gul and Abdul Razzaq.Kenya, who crashed to New Zealand in their first match by 10 wickets after being shot out for 69 on Sunday, left out opener Alex Obanda and brought in Tanmay Mishar as the only change in their side.

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Pakistan win toss, elect to bat against Kenya

Updated at: 1336 PST,  Wednesday, February 23, 2011

HAMBANTOTA: Pakistan captain Shahid Khan Afridi won the toss and decided to bat against Kenya in the World Cup Group A clash against Kenya at Mahinda Rajapakse stadium on Wednesday.In Group A, all teams except Pakistan have so far played one match each as Pakistan are going to play their first match in the tournament today.Pakistan chose left-arm spinner Abdur Rehman in addition to their three-man seam attack of Shoaib Akhtar, Umar Gul and Abdul Razzaq.Kenya, who crashed to New Zealand in their first match by 10 wickets after being shot out for 69 on Sunday, left out opener Alex Obanda and brought in Tanmay Mishar as the only change in their side.Pakistan: Shahid Afridi (captain), Misbah-ul-Haq, Mohammad Hafeez, Kamran Akmal, Younis Khan, Umar Akmal, Abdul Razzaq, Abdur Rehman, Shoaib Akhtar, Umar Gul, Ahmed Shahzad.Kenya: Jimmy Kamande (captain), Seren Waters, Collins Obuya, Steve Tikolo, Tanmay Mishra, Rakep Patel, Morris Ouma, Thomas Odoyo, Nehemiah Odhiambo, Elijah Otieno, Shem Ngoche.Umpires: Nigel Llong (ENG) and Tony Hill (NZ), Tv umpire: Daryl Harper (AUS)Match referee: Chris Broad (ENG)

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Cricket World Cup: Kotla faces tough World Cup test

Updated at: 1243 PST,  Wednesday, February 23, 2011

NEW DELHI: New Delhi's historic Feroz Shah Kotla ground will come under scrutiny on Thursday when it hosts a high-profile World Cup match between South Africa and the West Indies after an international ban.The ground was banned from hosting international matches in December 2009 when a one day international between India and Sri Lanka was abandoned after just 23.3 overs due to the "dangerous" nature of the playing surface.It has hosted Indian Premier League matches since but with no World Cup warm-up game at the stadium, it is unclear how the pitch will behave.Star South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis said he was not losing sleep over the track for their opening Group B encounter at the stadium, named after the 14th-century Mughal emperor of Delhi, Feroz Shah Tughlaq."I haven't had a look at the wicket. I have seen it during the IPL and it wasn't too bad."Probably it's not going to be a 300-350 wicket. We do have the balance in the team that can play on any type of wicket."Local cricket officials appeared determined to avoid a repeat of the 2009 embarrassment and have been going the extra mile to ensure the track comes up to scratch."I am not overly concerned but I will be able to sleep peacefully only after Thursday," said Delhi and District Cricket Association vice-president Chetan Chauhan."We did not lose (out) much on cricket, but the stigma of having been banned was tough to come to terms with. We have worked hard on the wicket and I am sure we will pull it off without any glitches," added the former India Test opener.International Cricket Council pitch consultant Andy Atkinson has also been in New Delhi since last Friday. "Yeah, the pitch preparation is my responsibility," Atkinson told the Mail Today newspaper."I am sure it will behave well this time. I am here till February 28 to see the second match (between the West Indies and Holland) through."Atkinson's efforts took a slight knock with unseasonal rains in New Delhi but he is pleased to see the sun shining again."The sun is out but it's like lacking the warmth. I wish it shines brightly because it is winter and the grass doesn't grow here in winter." (AFP)

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Cricket World Cup: Strauss hopes Dutch trouble deceives India

Updated at: 1156 PST,  Wednesday, February 23, 2011

NAGPUR: England captain Andrew Strauss hopes his side's unconvincing start to the World Cup will lull co-hosts India into a false sense of security for the blockbuster clash on Sunday The reigning World Twenty20 champions had just eight balls to spare in defeating the Netherlands by six wickets on Tuesday after a ragged bowling and fielding display that helped the Dutch notch 292 for six.Essex all-rounder Ryan ten Doeschate cashed in with a career-best 119 before England, led by Strauss, who scored 88, managed to avert a major upset to match their defeat at the hands of the Dutch at the 2009 World Twenty20."Hopefully India will take us lightly after this performance," Strauss told reporters at the VCA Ground in Nagpur."We generally raise our games against better sides. We are very excited about playing India in Bangalore. "There will be a great atmosphere and we will back ourselves to beat them," he insisted. India crushed co-hosts Bangladesh in their opener on Saturday.But Strauss, who shared a century stand with new opening partner Kevin Pietersen, readily conceded England would have to improve their fielding display after a "shemozzle" against the Netherlands.Asked if England's performance had been acceptable for the opening match of a World Cup, Strauss replied: "Certainly not. The first 50 overs was a very poor performance, and certainly the last 10 overs was exceptionally poor."One of England's most inept moments was a reprieve for ten Doeschate on 47 when James Anderson and Pietersen let an outfield catch drop between.There was also a no-ball called after England had too few men inside the circle, allowing Dutch captain Peter Borren to be recalled after being bowled by Stuart Broad."We were a little bit shell-shocked by what happened in those last 10 overs," Strauss said. "You can't afford to drop that many catches and we were pretty untidy on the ground as well."That meant Holland probably got 30 or 40 more than they should have done. We were way off where we want to be in the field."We came in very determined to start the tournament well. But it was one of those days in the field where everything seemed to go wrong."As for the Borren blunder, Strauss said: "It was just a miscommunication."I said to Stuart Broad 'do you want a man out there?' and Paul Collingwood thought I said 'go out there'.Strauss added that ten Doeschate, who also took two wickets, deserved acclaim for his innings regardless of England's ineptitude."I think you've got to give a lot of credit to Ryan ten Doeschate for the way he played."We've seen him do that for Essex, but on the big stage it's a hard thing to do and he played exceptionally well."Meanwhile the England captain took some heart from his side's run-chase."We needed to get back on the horse pretty quickly with the bat and make sure we put in a good, solid, professional performance," he said."It was a little bit tighter than we wanted it at the end. We probably didn't use the powerplay as we would have liked, but I think we always had the batting under control."We can take some confidence out of that." (AFP)

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England win after Netherlands set huge target

Updated at: 2207 PST,  Tuesday, February 22, 2011

NAGPUR: Captain Andrew Strauss guided England to a six-wicket win by achieving a huge target set by the Netherlands in a Group B match of the World Cup here at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Ground on Tuesday Chasing a difficult target of 293, England openers Strauss and Kevin Pietersen provided a solid start of 105 runs. Strauss made 88 from 83 balls and Pietersen scored 39 while John Trott scored 62, adding 61 for the second wicket with Stauss.Later, Trott and Ian Bell (33) made together 58 for the third wicket.Paul Collingwood and Ravi Bopara made 30 runs each and added 54 runs of rthe unbeaten fifth wicket partnership to see England win their opening match in the tournament.Earlier, a superb century by Ryan ten Doeschate powered the Netherlands to an astonishing total of 292 runs for six wickets against a strong England side after captain Peter Borren had won the toss and elected to bat first. The 30-year-old South Africa-born right-hander hit three sixes and nine fours in his 110-ball 119 that was the cornerstone of the Netherlands's innings.It was his fourth hundred in One-day Internationals and the first in the World Cup.Ten Doeschate added 78 runs with Tom Cooper (47), 64 with Tom de Grooth (28) and 61 with skipper Peter Borren (35 not out) to set a target that should be quite a test for England's tweaked batting order.Doeschate also claimed two wickets to earn the Man-of-the-Match award for his fine allround performance.Earlier, The Dutch openers provided a bright start of 36 from only six overs but the English bowlers soon got rid off them..Tim Bresnan got Alexei Kervezee caught behind for 16 when Netherlands were 36 and Graeme Swann got Wesley Barresi stumped out for 29, again by wicketkeeper Matt Prior.Then, Ten Doeschate ensured there was no panic in the Dutch camp. He offered dogged resistance in the company of former Australia under-19 player Cooper, consolidated the innings with his smart association with de Grooth before providing the late charge with Borren.

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World Cup final venue gets safety nod

Updated at: 2049 PST,  Tuesday, February 22, 2011

MUMBAI: Mumbai's revamped Wankhede stadium was cleared by fire chiefs on Tuesday to host the World Cup final, a welcome boost for a venue criticised for failing to respect safety standards."We have given the NOC (no objection certificate) to the stadium. They have fulfilled all the fire safety norms," Mumbai deputy chief fire officer A. N. Shinde told the PTI news agency after a fourth inspection of the ground."They can host matches. The stadium is safe and secure."The Wankhede will host the final on April 2 as well as two group matches.

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HIGHTLIGHTS

Eng v NED Pak v Ken Aus v Zim

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Doeschate powers Netherlands to 292-6 against England

Updated at: 1805 PST,  Tuesday, February 22, 2011

NAGPUR: A superb century by Ryan ten Doeschate powered the Netherlands to an astonishing total of 292 runs for six wickets against a strong England side in their Group B match here at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Ground on Tuesday.The 30-year-old South Africa-born right-hander hit three sixes and nine fours in his 110-ball 119 that was the cornerstone of the Netherlands's innings.It was his fourth hundred in One-day Internationals and first in the World Cup.Ten Doeschate added 78 runs with Tom Cooper (47), 64 with Tom de Grooth (28) and 61 with skipper Peter Borren (35 not out) to set a target that should be quite a test for England's tweaked batting order.Earlier, after Borren had won the toss and elected to bat first, the Dutch openers provided a bright start of 36 from only six overs but the English bowlers soon got rid off them.First, Tim Bresnan got Alexei Kervezee caught behind for 16 when Netherlands were 36.Later, Graeme Swann got Wesley Barresi stumped out for 29, again by wicketkeeper Matt Prior.Then, Ten Doeschate ensured there was no panic in the Dutch camp. He offered dogged resistance in the company of former Australia under-19 player Cooper, consolidated the innings with his smart association with de Grooth before providing the late charge with Borren.The total of 293 looks a difficult target for England despite a formidable batting line. 

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Afridi vows World Cup win for Pakistan

Updated at: 1931 PST,  Tuesday, February 22, 2011
HAMBANTOTA: Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi vowed Tuesday to win the World Cup for millions of fans back home."Not playing in our country is on our minds," Afridi said, ahead of his team's first match against Kenya on Wednesday."We feel for our nation, our people who are missing the World Cup. "I think this is the main thing for us, so definitely we will try our level best to win, which is very important for us, and if we do that I hope some cricket returns to our country sooner than later." Afridi admitted it was hard to keep the team in the right frame of mind against a background of such problems. "It was difficult to keep the team settled in the beginning when we had all those issues," said Afridi."We had to rebuild the team again but now a situation has come that our team is settled. We now have such a combination that people have hopes that this team can do something," said Afridi, who took over as captain in July last year. "It's difficult to be the captain in India or Pakistan with all that's happening, you have to make sacrifices. But my effort is always that I do well as captain or as player," said Afridi, who made his ODI debut against Kenya in 1996. "I love Kenya and Kenyans," said Afridi, when asked about his team's opponents. "I don't think we will be relaxed when we face them and I would like to be playing at our full strength."(AFP)

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Holland win toss, bat against England

Updated at: 1401 PST,  Tuesday, February 22, 2011
NAGPUR: Netherlands captain Peter Borren won the toss and elected to bat against England in the teams' World Cup Group B opener here at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Ground on Tuesday.England recalled star off-spinner Graeme Swann, who'd only recently joined the squad following the birth of his son, in place of left-arm spin bowler Michael Yardy in the only change to the side that beat Pakistan in a warm-up match last weeek.England are looking to add a maiden World Cup title to the World Twenty20 trophy they won in the Caribbean last year.Meanwhile the Dutch, who beat England at Lord's in the 2009 World Twenty20, were attempting to become the first associate nation to pull off an upset at this year's World Cup following heavy defeats for both Kenya and Canada.Teams:England: Andrew Strauss (captain), Kevin Pietersen, Jonathan Trott, Ian Bell, Paul Collingwood, Ravi Bopara, Matt Prior (wkt), Tim Bresnan, Stuart Broad, Graeme Swann, James AndersonNetherlands: Peter Borren (captain), Alexei Kervezee, Wesley Barresi (wk), Tom Cooper, Ryan ten Doeschate, Bas Zuiderent, Tom de Grooth, Mudassar Bukhari, Pieter Seelar, Bernard Loots, Berend WestdijkUmpires: Asad Rauf (PAK) and Bruce Oxenford (AUS), TV umpire: Kumar Dharmasena (SL)
Match referee: Ranjan Madugalle (SL)

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Netherlands win toss, bat against England

Updated at: 1334 PST,  Tuesday, February 22, 2011
NAGPUR: The Netherlands captain Peter Borren won the toss and elected to bat against England here at the Vidarbha Cricket Association stadium on Tuesday.

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Strauss wants England hit Holland hard in opener‎

Updated at: 0802 PST,  Tuesday, February 22, 2011
NAGPUR: The Zero Mile Marker in Nagpur, bang in the middle of India, was once used as a measuring post by the British, but the World Cup opener against Holland should be enough to tell us how far England's one-day side has come since the 6-1 thrashing in Australia.That series finished 16 days ago, but England's 67-run warm-up win over Pakistan in Fatullah on Friday reflected a desire to revert to the bold cricket that brought them five one-day series wins in a row before Australia. In their dreams awaits a first World Cup. The pieces are more or less in place. Kevin Pietersen, who made 66 from 78 balls against Pakistan, has been belatedly entrusted with reinvigorating England's opening partnership, while Matt Prior is the new middle-order finisher. The bowlers, meanwhile, are all fit again, with Stuart Broad's five-wicket hauls against Canada and Pakistan an advert for the benefits of a three-month break. The contrast in mood between the final defeat by Australia 16 days ago and the start of a tournament England are telling themselves they can win has not been lost on captain Andrew Strauss.'It was a frustrating two or three weeks in Australia,' he said. 'But we gained a lot of confidence out of that Pakistan game, purely because it was going back to a formula that has worked for us. It felt comfortable and has been the basis of most of our one-day cricket over the past two years.' The cornerstone of England's more aggressive tactics will be the opening partnership between Strauss and Pietersen. Although it yielded only four and six in the warm-ups, the principle is sound. 'We are contrasting players and that might make it hard for bowlers to adjust,' said Strauss. 'I think it could flourish.' Holland hold the bragging rights after their shock win in the opening game of the World Twenty20 in 2009. Strauss, who was not in the team that night, played down its relevance before pointing out: 'If we are 10 per cent off and they have a good day, we are in trouble.' Special attention will be reserved for Holland's first-class players: Essex all-rounder Ryan ten Doeschate, whose one-day batting average of 68 is a world record, Worcestershire batsman Alexei Kervezee, 21, and South Australia batsman Tom Cooper. Batsman Bas Zuiderent said: 'There is massive belief. We feel - and not just because of the Twenty20 win - that we can beat England.'

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Australia beat Zimbabwe by 91 runs

Updated at: 2115 PST,  Monday, February 21, 2011
AHMEDABAD: Defending champions Australia recorded a 91-run victory over Zimbabwe in their opening World Cup match on Monday. Chasing 263 runs, Zimbabwe were all out for 171 in 46.2 overs after their bowlers made the Aussies struggle in the early overs.Main scorers for Zimbabwe were Graeme Cremer (37), Sean Williams (28) and Prosper Utseya (24).For Australia, Mitchell Johnson was the most successful bowler taking three wickets for 19 runs while Shaun Tait and Jason Krezja captured two wickets each.Earlier, Shane Watson and Michael Clarke hit half-centuries as Australia overcame early struggles against spin.In-form Watson, who cracked one six and eight fours in a 92-ball 79, added 61 for the first wicket with Brad Haddin (29) and 79 for the second with skipper Ricky Ponting (28).Clarke provided the late flourish with a 55-ball 58 not out as Australia plundered 90 runs in the closing 10 overs to set a challenging target for Zimbabwe after electing to bat in the day-night match.Zimbabwe's specialist spinners Ray Price, Prosper Utseya and Graeme Cremer tied the Australian batsmen down, preventing them from scoring freely.Left-arm spinner Price, who shared the new ball with seamer Christopher Mpofu, was instrumental in keeping the run-rate low early in the innings with a tidy line and length. He finished with 1-43 off 10 overs.Off-spinner Utseya and leg-spinner Cremer bagged one wicket apiece, conceding 84 runs in a combined tally of 20 overs.In a rare show of aggression in the early overs, Watson and Haddin smashed two fours apiece in a Mpofu over, but skipper Elton Chigumbura promptly turned to spin.Utseya provided the breakthrough when he trapped Haddin lbw, with Zimbabwe asking for a review of the umpire's decision after the batsman had initially been given not out.Watson was also ruled out lbw off Cremer following a referral, but not before he had set the stage for the final onslaught.Ponting was run out after a brilliant piece of fielding by Mpofu, who hit the stumps at the non-striker's end from deep midwicket.

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Afridi signs for Hampshire county

Updated at: 2000 PST,  Monday, February 21, 2011
LONDON: Big-hitting Pakistan World Cup skipper Shahid Afridi is to join English Twenty20 champions Hampshire for their 2011 campaign, the club said on Monday.The explosive all-rounder, captaining his side at the ongoing 50-over World Cup in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, will arrive at the club in May and is expected to be available for the entire Friends Provident T20 campaign.Afridi, 30, had been due to join the Hampshire Royals last year but withdrew to resume the captaincy of the Test side, a statement on the club's website said."I was disappointed not to join Hampshire last season. It would have been fantastic to have been a part of the team that made history by winning the T20 trophy on home soil," Afridi said, according to the statement."Having played at the Rose Bowl for Pakistan last year I know that it is fast becoming one of the best places in the country to watch cricket of all levels. I hope very much to play a big part in the club's success in 2011."Afridi, one of the most devastating batsmen in world cricket, made his one-day debut for Pakistan aged just 16. He scored the fastest recorded ODI hundred in his maiden innings, reaching 100 runs off only 37 balls.Afridi, who has played 312 one-day internationals and 27 Tests, was named player of the tournament in the inaugural World Twenty20 in 2007 and was part of the Pakistan side that won the 2009 title in England."Shahid is a wonderful all-round cricketer and will be a real asset to our club over what should be an incredibly exciting summer at the Rose Bowl," said Hampshire manager Giles White.He joins Imran Tahir as the second of Hampshire's two permitted overseas signings eligible to play in the competition.

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Australia struggle to reach 262

Updated at: 1726 PST,  Monday, February 21, 2011
AHMEDABAD: Shane Watson and Michael Clarke hit half-centuries as Australia overcame early struggles against spin to post 262-6 against Zimbabwe in their opening World Cup match on Monday.In-form Watson, who cracked one six and eight fours in a 92-ball 79, added 61 for the first wicket with Brad Haddin (29) and 79 for the second with skipper Ricky Ponting (28).Clarke provided the late flourish with a 55-ball 58 not out as Australia plundered 90 runs in the closing 10 overs to set a challenging target for Zimbabwe after electing to bat in the day-night match.Zimbabwe's specialist spinners Ray Price, Prosper Utseya and Graeme Cremer tied the Australian batsmen down, preventing them from scoring freely.Left-arm spinner Price, who shared the new ball with seamer Christopher Mpofu, was instrumental in keeping the run-rate low early in the innings with a tidy line and length. He finished with 1-43 off 10 overs.Off-spinner Utseya and leg-spinner Cremer bagged one wicket apiece, conceding 84 runs in a combined tally of 20 overs.In a rare show of aggression in the early overs, Watson and Haddin smashed two fours apiece in a Mpofu over, but skipper Elton Chigumbura promptly turned to spin.Utseya provided the breakthrough when he trapped Haddin lbw, with Zimbabwe asking for a review of the umpire's decision after the batsman had initially been given not out.Watson was also ruled out lbw off Cremer following a referral, but not before he had set the stage for the final onslaught.Ponting was run out after a brilliant piece of fielding by Mpofu, who hit the stumps at the non-striker's end from deep midwicket.

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Cricket World Cup: Fans furious at final ticket squeeze

Updated at: 1540 PST,  Monday, February 21, 2011
 MUMBAI: Cricket fans lashed out on Monday when it was revealed that just 4,000 tickets will go on sale for the World Cup final at Mumbai's historic but capacity-squeezed Wankhede stadium.The venue for the title match, which has already been criticised for failing to meet fire safety regulations, has undergone major renovations for the tournament which led to a reduction in seating from 38,000 to 33,000.Tournament director Ratnakar Shetty said obligations, which require 20,000 tickets to be provided to clubs linked to the Mumbai Cricket Association and 8,500 to the International Cricket Council, have slashed the selling options.But angry fans complained that supporters were being squeezed out and questioned why Kolkata's Eden Gardens, with a 65,000-capacity, was not named as the venue for the April 2 showpiece."Disgusting... only 4,000 tickets... this is a big failure of management," wrote one fan on a sports website.Another added: "Are you kidding me? Why are we hosting the final on one of the smallest grounds in the country? Assuming Eden Gardens is ready by April 2, the final should be moved there.""What's the purpose of hosting the final in India if only 4,000 out of the millions of spectators are able to watch it from the stands," said one more.Shetty admitted his hands were tied by contractual duties, but said the fact that 20,000 tickets were going to clubs meant that the public was not missing out.The ICC said that tickets for the final, as well as the two semi-finals, would be available online from Monday."From the outset it was always going to be near impossible to satisfy the enormous demand for tickets," said ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat.
"But the central organising committee always wanted to provide as many cricket lovers as possible with an opportunity to experience the World Cup. That is why some tickets are now being made available online."
Meanwhile, Shetty insisted that the Wankhede would be ready for the final as well as its two other matches - New Zealand v Canada on March 13 and Sri Lanka against New Zealand on March 18.That's despite fire chiefs' unhappiness at the level of safety standards at the ground."When we build a stadium, we take care of each and every person who will come to the stadium," said Shetty."Rest assured, all permissions will be in hand and all things required from the fire department." (AFP)

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Australia win toss, bat against Zimbabwe

Updated at: 1429 PST,  Monday, February 21, 2011
AHMEDABAD: Australia captain Ricky Ponting won the toss and elected to bat against Zimbabwe in their opening World Cup match here at the Sardar Patel Stadium, Motera on Monday This is the fourth match of the tournament and the third in Group A.Australia, who are aiming to win the fifth title after emerging champions in 1987, 1999, 2003 and 2007, have not lost a match in the last two editions in South Africa and the West Indies under Ponting.They have lost just one of their 27 one-day internationals against Zimbabwe, the defeat coming in the 1983 World Cup in England.Teams: Australia: Ricky Ponting (captain), Shane Watson, Brad Haddin, Michael Clarke, David Hussey, Cameron White, Steve Smith, Mitchell Johnson, Jason Krejza, Brett Lee, Shaun Tait.Zimbabwe: Elton Chigumbura (captain), Charles Coventry, Regis Chakabva, Graeme Cremer, Craig Ervine, Christopher Mpofu, Raymond Price, Tatenda Taibu, Brendan Taylor, Prosper Utseya, Sean Williams.Umpires: Asoka de Silva (SL) and Richard Kettleborough (ENG), TV umpire: Amish Saheba (IND)
Match referee: Roshan Mahanama (SL)

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Sri Lanka crush Canada by 210 runs

Updated at: 2120 PST,  Sunday, February 20, 2011
HAMBANTOTA: Sri Lanka recorded victory by a huge margin of 210 runs over Canada in their opening Group A day-night match on the second day of the ICC World Cup 2011 here at the at the Mahinda Rajapakse stadium on Sunday Chasing an improbable target of 333 runs, Canada were all out for 122 runs in 36.5 overs as only three players could get into double-figures. Rizwan Cheema was the top-scorer with 37 off 35 balls with two sixes and four boundaries while captain Ashish Bagai made 22 and Harvir Baidwan remained not out on 16 Sri Lankan pacers Nuwan Kulasekara and Thisara Perera claimed three wickets each while off-break bowler Muttiah Muralitharan captured two wickets.Earlier, Mahela Jayawardene hit his second World Cup hundred to lead Sri Lanka to 332-7. The 33-year-old right-hander scored his 100 off 80 balls for his 13th one-day hundred and added an invaluable 179 for the third wicket with skipper Kumar Sangakkara, who made 92.Jayawardene and Sangakkara built on the platform set by opener Tillakaratne Dilshan (50) after Sri Lanka won the toss before a near-capacity 35,000 crowd at the new ground which became the 177th one-day venue.Jayawardene completed his hundred with a single off spinner John Davison after facing just 80 deliveries - the fastest by a Sri Lankan in the World Cup, beating Sanath Jayasuriya's 85-ball ton against Bangladesh at Port of Spain four years ago.
But Davison dismissed him in the same over, caught at short fine-leg after Jayawardene had hit nine boundaries and a six.Sri Lanka lost a cluster of wickets in the death overs, but Angelo Mathews (21) and Thilan Samarwaweera (18 not out) ensured they got past 300.Earlier, Dilshan and Upul Tharanga put on a quick 63 for the first wicket by the 12th over before a mix-up between the two sent Tharanga back, run out for 19.Dilshan fell just after scoring his third World Cup half-century, holing out at deep cover to Davison as he failed to control a shot off medium-pacer Rizwan Cheema.It was then left to Jayawardene and Sangakkara to punish a hapless Canadian attack, depleted by an injury to spearhead Henry Osinde who walked off the field due to a hamstring problem after bowling only 2.1 overs.

Aus v Zim SL v Can NZ v Ken

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Miandad hails Tendulkar on equalling his record

Updated at: 2005 PST,  Sunday, February 20, 2011
KARACHI: Former Pakistan captain Javed Miandad Sunday hailed record-breaking Indian maestro Sachin Tendulkar who equalled his record of playing in six World Cup editions.Tendulkar, whose first World Cup was in 1992 which Pakistan won, has now featured in six World Cup tournaments, a record held by Miandad who played the inaugural edition in 1975 and then went on to play in the 1979, 1983, 1987, 1992 and 1996 editions.Tendulkar, 37, featured in India's comprehensive 87-run win in the opening match of the event, against Bangladesh on Saturday."I congratulate Tendulkar for equalling my record," Miandad told a news agency. "It is always good when a great player manages to equal or surpass a record set by you. "I am happy Tendulkar has equalled my record of World Cup appearances and it shows his dedication and love for the game."Miandad said Tendulkar has been a role model for the youth around the world."My advice to young players is to follow Tendulkar's example. He has been successful as an international cricketer and has been a role model for millions of players, not only in India but around the world."

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Cricket World Cup: Pak team ready despite losing warm-up against Eng, says Alam

Updated at: 1933 PST,  Sunday, February 20, 2011
HAMBANTOTA: Pakistan team manager Intikhab Alam said Sunday his unpredictable team were fully charged up for the World Cup despite losing their last warm-up against England."The boys are confident of launching their World Cup campaign on a positive note," Alam said, after team's arrival from Dhaka. "We want to win all our group matches."
Pakistan, who beat Bangladesh before going down to England in the lead-up to the tournament, open their campaign with a match against Kenya here on Wednesday.Alam, who was manager-cum-coach with the team which won the 1992 World Cup and 2009 World Twenty20, said the aim is to take no team lightly."We know that it's a World Cup and no team has come for an outing, so we have to be at our best to beat any side, whether it's a lowly ranked or a top team," said Alam, brushing aside concerns of not playing at home."We know that because of some unavoidable circumstances we are not playing our matches at home, but we have not talked about that any time, not even in the last two months, so there are no such feelings."Alam also brushed aside worries over team discipline after Shoaib Akhtar and Wahab Riaz were fined following a late night out in Dhaka.
The manager also said paceman Junaid Khan had impressed with his bowling against England."I would not say that he is Mohammad Aamer in the making, because it's too early, but he has shown potential and can show his talent if he gets into the final eleven," said Alam of Junaid, a replacement for injured Sohail Tanveer.(AFP)

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Jayawardene propels Sri Lanka to 332-7

Updated at: 1824 PST,  Sunday, February 20, 2011
HAMBANTOTA: Mahela Jayawardene hit his second World Cup hundred to lead Sri Lanka to 332-7 against Canada on Sunday in their opening Group A clash at the Mahinda Rajapakse stadium.The 33-year-old right-hander scored his 100 off 80 balls for his 13th one-day hundred and added an invaluable 179 for the third wicket with skipper Kumar Sangakkara, who made 92.Jayawardene and Sangakkara built on the platform set by opener Tillakaratne Dilshan (50) after Sri Lanka won the toss before a near-capacity 35,000 crowd at the new ground which became the 177th one-day venue.
Jayawardene completed his hundred with a single off spinner John Davison after facing just 80 deliveries - the fastest by a Sri Lankan in the World Cup, beating Sanath Jayasuriya's 85-ball ton against Bangladesh at Port of Spain four years ago.But Davison dismissed him in the same over, caught at short fine-leg after Jayawardene had hit nine boundaries and a six.Sri Lanka lost a cluster of wickets in the death overs, but Angelo Mathews (21) and Thilan Samarwaweera (18 not out) ensured they got past 300.Earlier, Dilshan and Upul Tharanga put on a quick 63 for the first wicket by the 12th over before a mix-up between the two sent Tharanga back, run out for 19.Dilshan fell just after scoring his third World Cup half-century, holing out at deep cover to Davison as he failed to control a shot off medium-pacer Rizwan Cheema.It was then left to Jayawardene and Sangakkara to punish a hapless Canadian attack, depleted by an injury to spearhead Henry Osinde who walked off the field due to a hamstring problem after bowling only 2.1 overs.Jayawardene, who survived two caught behind referral appeals against spinner Jimmy Hansra, upped the tempo by hitting the same bowler for the first six at this ground.He then clobbered four boundaries in successive overs from Davison, but the veteran Canadian broke the partnership by having Sangakkara caught and bowled, with the Sri Lankan captain approaching his 11th hundred.Sangakkara hit seven fours and a six during his 87-ball knock.

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Players not affected by Shiv Sena threats: Waqar Younis

Updated at: 1703 PST,  Sunday, February 20, 2011
DHAKA: Pakistan cricket team coach Waqar Younis said that threats given by Shiv Sena do not affect Pakistan players.
They all are fit and have focused all their attention on
the gameTalking with media in Dhaka, Waqar said that the players have
worked hard for the World Cup and victory is vital to revive cricket in PakistanThe Pakistan coach
did not termed any team as favourite but he said the
team who would play well would win the tournament and he hopes it would be Pakistan.

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Bowlers played key role in New Zealand win: Vettori

Updated at: 1631 PST,  Sunday, February 20, 2011
CHENNAI: New Zealand skipper Daniel Vettori said his team must not lower their guard against tougher opposition after cantering to an easy 10-wicket win over Kenya in the World Cup on Sunday.Kiwi fast bowlers skittled the hapless African nation for 69 in 23.5 overs before knocking off the required runs in just eight overs at the Chidambaram Stadium for a winning start to their campaign."We didn't expect that the game would get over so quickly," Vettori said. "It was nice. We are happy with how we performed. But we don't expect all other matches to be this easy."I think bowling full and straight is going to be the key in this part of world. We will keep the same intensity for every game."Hamish Bennett grabbed 4-16 off five overs while Tim Southee and Jacob Oram chipped in with three wickets each.
The emphatic nature of win will set the Kiwis up nicely for their next match against defending champions Australia in Nagpur on February 25."To be able to bowl this well and allow the batsmen to have such a small chase is always pleasing," Vettori said."It's pretty important for us to stand up there and perform. Australia is one of the favourites for the competition so if we do well there we know we are in good stead."Bennett, a late replacement in the playing eleven for first-choice seamer Kyle Mills, hoped his performance would be taken into account by the selectors.

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