Lewis Hamilton upset over controversies in career

London: Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton is upset with the string of controversies dogging his racing career, the latest being the `tyregate` in which the team is accused of running a `secret` tyre test prior to the Canadian Grand Prix.

Hamilton, after having six dramatic years at McLaren, hoped for some stability at Mercedes, but the ` tyregate` has again put him and the team in trouble, which could result in hefty fine or a possible ban from the game.

The Mercedes driver feels that trouble seems to follow him wherever he goes adding that he was told the `tyre test` was a right thing to do and by participating in it he did not do anything wrong.

Being outgunned by teammate Nico Rosberg , Hamilton aims to be back at the top and is hopeful of the Canadian Grand Prix, which begins tomorrow.

Mercedes boss Ross Brawn gave the nod for the tyre test, which he has claimed was not ` secret` but private adding that his conscience is clear.

Brawn will be facing an International Tribunal hearing on June 20.

Gill fastest; Ghosh leads INRC

Nashik: While Team Mahindra Adventure`s Gaurav Gill (co-driver Musa Sherif) expectedly topped the time charts in a full-blown, modified XUV 500 in the SUV class, Amittrajit Ghosh (Ashwin Naik), in a Group N-spec Mitsubishi Cedia, took the overall lead in the INRC at the end of Leg 1 in the Mahindra Adventure Rally of Maharashtra, here Saturday.

Ghosh, winner of the first round in Chennai in March, survived a puncture and wrong tyre choice for a slender lead over Arjun Rao (Satish Rajagopal) who was in a Volkswagen Polo (1600cc) while Vikram Mathias (Srikanth Gowda), also in a Group N Cedia, was placed third overall in the IndianNational Rally Championship.

In the Junior INRC, first round winner Suhem MK (Jeevarathinam) in a Maruti Baleno opened a one-minute lead over Asad Khan (Zayne Asrar) driving a Maruti Esteem with Anirudha Ranganekar (Nitin Jacob) in a VW Polo third after the 28 competitors completed two loops of the three Special Stages with intermittent rains adding spice to the proceedings.

The rally concludes Sunday when the vehicles will run another loop of the three Special Stages, located some 65 Kms from Nashik, before returning to the city.

Gill, participating in the SUV National championship class that is run concurrently with the INRC, was quickest in five of the six Special Stages on Saturday as he gave yet another grand exhibition of his driving skills.

Meanwhile, in the Indian Rally Championship class, the Malaysian pair of Karamjit Singh, the former Production World Rally and APRC champion, and co-driver Jagdev Singh in a modified VW Polo car in the Slideways Industries livery, were second quickest overall behind Gill, but were comfortably ahead of team-mate Rohan Pawar (Arjun Mehta) by over nine minutes in their category.

Unofficial classification (Leg 1):

INRC - Overall: Amittrajit Ghosh / Ashwin Naik (Group N Mitsubishi Cedia) 1 (01hr, 01.0secs); Arjun Rao / Satish Rajagopal (VW Polo) 2 (01:00:10.0); Vikram Mathias / Srikanth Gowda (Group N Cedia) 3 (01:00:20.0).

INRC 2000cc: Ghosh/Naik 1; Mathias / Gowda 2; Rahul Kanthraj / Vivek Bhatt (Group N Cedia) 3 (01:01:53.0).

INRC 1600cc: Rao / Rajagopal 1; Raghunandan B / Suraj K (Honda City) 2 (01:03:08.0); Hrishikesh Thakersay / Ninad Mirajgaonkar (VW Polo) 3 (01:03:17.0).

Junior INRC: Suhem MK / Jeevarathinam (Maruti Baleno) 1 (01:02:59.0); Asad Khan / Zayne Asrar (Maruti Esteem) 2 (01:03:59.0); Anirudha Ranganekar / Nitin Jacob (VW Polo) 3 (01:06:45.0).

SUV NRC: Gaurav Gill / Musa Sherif (Mahindra Adventure, XUV 500) 1 (00:58:06.0); Lohitt Urs / Bonnie Thomas (Mahindra Adventure, XUV 500) 2 (01:05:07.0).

IRC: Karamjit Singh / Jagdev Singh (Slideways Industries, VW Polo) 1 (00:59:19.0); Rohan Pawar / Arjun Mehta (Slideways Industries, VW Polo) 2 (01:09:00.0).

2013 French Open: David Ferrer reaches maiden Grand Slam final

Paris: David Ferrer outshined Jo-Wilfried Tsonga to reach his maiden Grand Slam final at the French Open on Friday.

The Spaniard defeated the local favourite 6-1, 7-6 (3), 6-2 to book a date with compatriot Rafael Nadal in the final.

"It`s a dream for me to be in a grand slam final, and Roland Garros is more important for me," Ferrer said after the match.

After losing Tsonga said he was disappointed saying he did not enjoy the match as much he had wanted to.

"Now I`m disappointed because I didn`t enjoy this match as much as I wanted because this was a semi-final," he said.

Nadal is aiming for a record eighth title at the Roland Garros and if he succeeds, the Spaniard will become the first player in the history to have won a title eight times at the same Grand Slam event.

Ankita ends runner-up at Uzbeksitan ITF event

New Delhi: Indian qualifier Ankita Raina`s splendid run at the USD 25000 ITF Women tennis tournament in Karshi, Uzbekistan ended with a runners-up finish as she lost the summit clash in straight sets to local favourite Sabina Sharipova.

Playing her first ever final in a USD 25,000 ITF event, Ankita lost 3-6, 3-6 to Sharipova, who is ranked 92 places above the Indian in world ranking at 363.

"This was the first time I was playing in a USD 25,000 event final and was very anxious. I didn’t show enough patience and that hurt me," said Ankita, who would now playing a USD 25000 ITF event in Bukhara next week.

The run to the final will help Ankita add valuable 34 points to her ranking.

In the doubles event at the same tournament Ankita had made a first round exit with compatriot Prarthana G. Thombare after losing 3-6, 6-4, 6-10 to third seeded pair of Ukraine`s Veronika Kapshay and Teodora Mircic of Serbia.

Manchester United confirm Guillermo Varela signing

London: Manchester United have confirmed the signing of Penarol defender Guillermo Varela.

The Uruguay Under-20s international spent the end of last season on trial at Old Trafford and impressed coaches enough to make a permanent move to the Premier League side.

The 20-year-old becomes the first signing under the management of David Moyes, who approved the deal, after Varela completed a medical.

Speaking before the announcement of the transfer, Varela told Futbol a lo Penarol radio: "I will have a medical on Friday and on Saturday I join the Uruguay Under-20s national team."

"I will have to learn English. Rodolfo Catino (Penarol`s club treasurer) taught me something. The structure is impressive."

Catino, who travelled with Varela in order to complete the deal on behalf of the club, believes that the promising youngster can settle into life in a new country.

"The deal has been agreed," he added. "There won`t be any percentage regarding any future transfer.

"The deal can be as much as €2.8 million. Guille will adapt quickly to Manchester."

French Open 2013: Serena storms past Sharapova to win her 16th Grand Slam title

Serena Williams defeated Maria Sharapova in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4 to win her second French Open title and her 16th Grand Slam.

UPDATES FROM THE MATCH:

THIRD SET Serena wins it 6-4

Serena to serve for the set and the match. Both the players win a point each 15-15. Serena fires another ace and extends her lead to 30-15. Another good and wide serve from Serena and she plays a lofted shot for a winner, two match points for Serena! She serves another ace and Serena Wiliams has won her second French Open title! The last one she won was way back in 2002.

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SECOND SET Serena leads 5-4

Sharapova to serve to stay in the set. Serena’s shot goes long, 15-0. Good aggression by Sharapova who went up to the nets and Serena made an error as her return went long, 30-0. Serena once again brings her powerful forehand into the match and wins a point, 30-15. Another good rally between the two which ended after Maria’s backhand landed wide, 30-30. Sharapova wins a point with a perfect forehand winner, 40-30. Another power packed forehand from Serena, another point for Serena, deuce, 40-40. Sharapova wins the game, Serena to serve for the set and the match.

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SECOND SET Serena leads 5-3

Serena to serve. Serena plays a top and powerful backhand for a winner, 15-0. Good deep serve from Serena followed by an aggressive forehand winner, 30-0. Serena wins the next two points and wins the game!

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SECOND SET Serena leads 4-3

Sharapova to serve. She wins the first point as Serena’s shot goes long, 15-0. Serena wins the next point, 15-15. Maria comes to the nets, surprises Serena and plays a volley winner, 30-15. Another good play from Maria as she makes Serena run on both sides of the court and finally Serena’s forehand goes long, 40-15. A good rally was ended after Maria’s backhand hit the nets, 40-30. And Sharapova wins the game!

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SECOND SET Serena leads 3-2

Sharapova to serve. Another good rally and Sharapova ends it with a perfect forehand, 15-0. Good return of serve from Serena who wins a point with a top forehand, 15-15. Serena’s backhand goes long, 30-15. Good rally yet once again and Sharapova executes a perfect forehand to win the point, 40-15. Good return by Serena, 40-30. Maria’s shot finds the net this time, deuce, 40-40. Good serve and Serena’s return hits the nets, advantage Sharapova! And Sharapova holds her serve as Serena’s shot lands wide.

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SECOND SET Serena leads 3-1

Serena to serve. She wins the first point, 15-0. Sharapova’s backhand went too wide, 30-0. Sharapova is now struggling to keep with Serena’s pace as her backhand once again goes long, 40-0. Good wide serve by Serena after which she wins the game with a top forehand.

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SECOND SET Serena leads 2-1

Sharapova to serve. Good return from Serena after which she advanced to the nets and hit a backhand winner, 0-15. Serena’s forehand went slightly wide, 15-15. Serena won the next point, 15-30. Serena’s forehand once again went wide, 30-30. Another classy rally between these two and then Sharapova’s cross court forehand hit the nets, 30-40, break point for Serena! Maria’s backhand went wide and Serena once again breaks Sharapova’s serve!

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SECOND SET Scores level 1-1

Serena to serve. Good aggression from both the players after which Serena played a drop shot and then lofted Maria’s return over her head for a winner, 15-0. Serena once again decided to advance to the nets but this time didn’t succeed as an elegant forehand from Sharapova stormed past her, 15-15. Serena won the next two points, 15-40. Sharapova played her first drop shot of the match, didn’t work as Serena won the game.

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SECOND SET Sharapova leads 1-0

Sharapova to serve. Aggression from Serena and Maria’s return finds the net, 0-15. Double-fault by Sharapova, 0-30. Another top rally between the two players and finally Serena’s forehand went wide, 15-30. Another double-fault by Sharapova, 15-40, two break points for Serena! Serena’s backhand landed long, one more break point to go, 30-40. Good serve from Sharapova and Serena’s return goes wide, deuce, 40-40. Sharapova’s forehand lands long, Serena gets the advantage. Sharapova wins the next point, deuce again! Sharapova’s backhand hits the nets, advantage Serena! Deuce again as Serena’s backhand found the net this time. Sharapova’s backhand landed long, and Serena once again got the advantage. Top play from Sharapova who first sent Serena to her right and then executed a perfect forehand for a winner, deuce again! And finally Sharapova gets the advantage after Serena’s shot hit the nets. And Sharapova seals the game with another top forehand.

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FIRST SET Serena wins it 6-4

Serena serving for the set. She wins the first point, 15-0. Maria’s backhand finds the net, 30-0. Serena serves an ace just at the right time that also gives her three set points! Maria shows some aggression, returns the serve well and then executes a perfect forehand winner, 40-15. Two more set points to go for Serena. Serena seals the set 6-4!

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FIRST SET Serena leads 5-4

Sharapova to serve. Serena once again moved to the nets and forced Sharapova to make another error, 0-15. Good serve from Maria and this time Serena’s shot landed long, 15-15. Top rally once again between the two top players and finally Maria’s backhand hit the nets, 15-30. Sharapova’s backhand once again goes long and now Serena has two break points! Serena wins the game with a superb forehand and Maria couldn’t do much there, Serena breaks again!

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FIRST SET Scores level 4-4

Serena to serve. The point had a good rally but then Sharapova’s backhand landed long, 15-0. Another good return from Maria and as a result of which this time Serena’s return went long, 15-15. Serena’s ace extended her lead to 30-15. Top play yet once again from Sharapova and Serena’s forehand from cross the court landed wide, 30-30. Serena’s forehand from cross the court once again finds the net, 30-40, break point for Sharapova! Another top return from Sharapova and she has capitalised on the break point, wins the game as Serena’s shot goes long.

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FIRST SET Serena leads 4-2

Serena to serve. Serena’s forehand landed long, 0-15. This time Maria’s forehand went long, 15-15. Serena won the next two points, 40-15. Serena played a drop shot but Maria was quick to cover some court and smash that past Serena for a winner, 40-30. Sharapova’s shot lands wide and Serena wins the game!

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FIRST SET Serena leads 3-2

Sharapova to serve. Serena won the first two points, 0-30. Sharapova’s backhand once again lands long and Serena once again has three break points, 0-40! Serena once again came to the nets, but this time Maria was prepared as she flicked a backhand past Serena whose return found the nets, 15-40. Two more break points for Serena. This time Serena’s backhand goes long, 30-40. One more break point for Serena but Sharapova isn’t playing under any sort of pressure for sure! Sharapova’s forehand goes long and once again Serena has broken Sharapova’s serve!

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FIRST SET Scores level 2-2

Serena to serve. The first serve saw a good return from Maria and Serena’s shot hit the nets, 0-15. Serena followed it with an ace, 15-15. Sharapova’s shot went long, 15-30. Maria once again returned a serve in good manner but then Serena advanced to the nets and forced Maria to make an error, 30-15. Sharapova once again pounced on Serena’s serve and Serena’s return hit the nets, 30-30. Good wide serve from Serena this time and it was followed by a forehand winner from her, 40-30. And Serena manages to win the game, to level score.

FIRST SET Sharapova leads 2-1

Sharapova to serve. Serena wins the first point, 0-15. Maria wins the next point, 15-15. Maria’s forehand goes wide and that brought the game back to deuce. A powerful return from Serena gave her the advantage. Serena once again displayed some powerful tennis and Serena has broken Sharapova’s serve with a volley winner!

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FIRST SET Sharapova leads 2-0

Serena to serve. She wins the first point off a powerful forehand, 15-0. Maria’s return was good and Serena’s return finds the net, 15-15. Another good return from Sharapova and Serena’s forehand lands long, 15-30. Maria is playing some superb tennis here, another good return and Serena’s return lands long again, 15-40. Two break points for Sharapova! And after a good rally, Serena’s forehand lands wide and Sharapova has broken Serena’s serve!

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FIRST SET Sharapova leads 1-0

Sharapova to serve. And Serena immediately took the lead by winning two points, 30-0. Sharapova’s shot found the nets and Serena’s lead extended to 40-0, three break points straight away for Serena! Good serve this time from Sharapova and Serena’s return hit the nets, 15-40. Two more break points. Another good serve by Sharapova and this time Serena’s return landed long, 30-40. Terrific ace from Sharapova, she has saved three break points, deuce, 40-40! Sharapova’s backhand hits the nets, advantage Serena. Good wide serve from Sharapova, deuce again, 40-40. Serena’s forehand finds the net this time, advantage Maria! Good serve from Sharapova and Serena’s return lands wide, game Sharapova. Excellent play this from Sharapova who won the game after she was down 0-40!

Live updates from the French Open 2013 women’s singles final to be played between Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams.

Sharapova might be the defending champion but her rivalry against Serena is known to all and she would have to play her heart out to stop Serena from winning here second French Open title. Sharapova defeated 3rd seed Victoria Azarenka in the semis. Sharapova defeated Sara Errani in straight sets- 6-3, 6-2 last year and she would be aware that with Serena at the other side of the net, this is going to be an extremely tough final.

Meanwhile, on the other hand, Serena has been in some incredible form of late and it is surprising to know that her trophy case has just one French Open trophy which she won way back in 2002. Keeping her current form in mind, there is no reason why the American can’t win her second, this time against the defending champion Sharapova.

ICC Champions Trophy: England comprehensively defeat Australia by 48 runs

Birmingham: Ian Bell cracked a responsible 91 and James Anderson scalped three wickets as England dished out a disciplined allround performance to notch up a convincing 48-run victory over Australia in their Group A match of the Champions Trophy here on Saturday.

Riding on Bell`s half-century, England first posted a challenging 269 for six, despite some good bowling by the Australian bowlers, after electing to bat.

The hosts then returned to tighten the noose around Australia`s neck with a very disciplined bowling display and eventually restricted the visitors for 221-9 in their 50 overs at Edgbaston here.

Seamer James Anderson became the highest wicket-taker in one-day cricket for England during his three-wicket haul as he along with Tim Bresnan (2/45) and Stuart Broad (1/35) put Australia under tremendous pressure.

Spinners James Tredwell (1/51) and part-time spinners Joe Root (1/20) and Ravi Bopara (1/34) also supported the pacers well and didn`t allow the Aussies to free their arms.

For Australia, skipper George Bailey was the top-scorer with a 69-ball 55, while James Faulkner scored an unbeaten 54 but they never got the support from the other end as Australia kept losing wickets at regular intervals.

Earlier, Bell`s partnership of 111 with Jonathan Trott, who made 43, was the backbone of the English innings as Bopara (46 no, 3x4, 1x6) struck a few meaty blows in the end.

During his 115-ball innings, Bell hit seven boundaries and seldom did he hit any rash stroke.

Bopara provided the late charge and added 56 runs for the unbroken seventh wicket stand with Tim Bresnan (19 no) after England were reduced to 213 for six at one stage.

For Australia, seamers Clint Mckay (2/38) and James Faulkner (2/48) were the most successful bowlers.

Chasing 270 to win, Australian openers David Warner and Shane Watson found the going tough right from the beginning, thanks to a tight and consistent line by England pacers.

The first boundary for Australia came only in the fourth over when Watson came up with a well-timed flick across the square leg.

However, Broad accounted for Warner (9) in the sixth over when he induced an edged off the batsman to Jos Buttler, who took a fine catch behind the stumps.

Two overs later, Watson and Hughes managed two boundaries -- one off a miscued leading edge by the opener, while the other an excellent drive by the new batsman. However, with the seamers bowling in tandem, Australia could manage only 35 runs in the first power play.

Bresnan was introduced into the attack then and Hughes welcomed him with an sweetly-timed drive past extra cover for a much-needed boundary. However, the pacer along with spinner Tredwell tightened the screw further to dry up the runs.

Bresnan was rewarded for his hard work as he dismissed Watson in the 15th over when he trapped him in front of wicket in his 3rd over.

The 23rd over turned out to be a good over for Australia as they piled up 13 runs with the help of two boundaries. But things worsened for Australia when Joe Root dismissed Hughes in the 26th over, trapping him before wicket.

Skipper Bailey and Adam Voges then combined as Australia crossed the 100-mark in the 28th over but quick runs still eluded them.

In the 33rd over, Bailey decided to go for the batting power play but the decision backfired as Bresnan cleaned up Voges in his fourth delivery when he was trying to go for a big hit.

Anderson then picked up Mitchell Marsh and Matthew Wade in one over to reduce the visitors to 136 for six in 36 overs.

Marsh was caught by Eoin Morgan off a loose stroke in the first ball of the 36th over, while Wade edged Anderson`s last ball to Buttler as Australia could manage only 16 runs for 3 wickets in their Powerplay.

Bailey brought up his fifty in the 37th over but he was dismissed by Tredwell in the 40th over when he tried to dance down the pitch, looking to accelerate.

Faulkner then tried their bit but to no avail as Australia slumped to a defeat in their campaign opener.

Earlier, opting to bat, Bell along with skipper Alastair Cook (30) added 57 runs for the opening stand before Shane Watson got the breakthrough. He induced an edge off Cook`s bat which was taken by Matthew Wade behind the stumps.

Bell found an able ally in Trott as the duo added 111 runs in only 22 overs. They kept a steady run-rate during the phase of play without taking much risk.

Trott, who was playing the role of second fiddle to perfection finally made a mistake when he chased a widish delivery from Mitchell Starc to be caught by Wade.

Bell, on the other hand, kept his cool as he slowly approached the three-figure mark. The experienced right-hander misjudged the line of a fuller delivery bowled by Faulkner to get bowled.

The collapse started at this very juncture as young Joe Root (12) was out in the very next over without a single run being added to the score. Root flicked a slower one from Mckay to rival skipper Bailey fielding at mid-wicket.

From 189 for two, it suddenly became 189 for four.

Eoin Morgan (8) shuffled across and lost the leg-stump in the process off Mckay while Jos Butler (1) was played-on to give Faulkner his second scalp.

The second Powerplay proved to be a productive one for Australia as England scored only 23 runs and lost two wickets in the process.

Abidal `upset` with Barcelona following release

Barcelona: Eric Abidal has admitted that he is "upset" with Barcelona`s decision to release him on a free transfer.

The 33-year-old departed Camp Nou last week after six years of service, but the latter part of his stay in Catalunya was overshadowed by the diagnosis of a tumour in his liver - which required a transplant in March 2012.

But while the former Olympique Lyonnais man accepts that moving on is "a part of football", he is nonetheless rankled with the way his departure from Barca was handled.

"I do not understand it. I`ve fought for them and I`m in great shape. I feel better than two years ago. They gave me no reason, other than it was a `professional` decision," he told Radio Montecarlo.

"Inevitably, [the decision to release me] calls into question my ability to continue playing football. I am the first person to judge my form.

"First of all, I will not put my life at stake. That is why I`m a little upset with the club`s decision. Either way, this is football."

Di Maria upset by Mourinho exit

Madrid: Angel Di Maria says he is upset that Jose Mourinho has left Real Madrid following his decision to join Chelsea this week.

Di Maria, 25, who played under Mourinho for three seasons at Santiago Bernabeu, says he wishes him the best in the future and believes the Portuguese has had a positive influence on his career.

"It was very sad when I learned he was leaving the club," Di Maria told Ole.

"When a coach like him leaves an institution like this it`s not nice for anyone. He sought his happiness and future elsewhere, and I hope he does well.

"I`m very grateful to Mourinho."

Although Mourinho`s exit has clearly had an effect on the Argentina international, Di Maria insists he is happy in Madrid and his future lies in the hands of the president and the next boss of los Blancos.

"The decision as to whether I remain a Madrid player is between the president [Florentino Perez] and the new coach. They must decide if I am to play a part next season," he said.

"I am very happy in Madrid. I live a quiet life with my family and my baby who was born a month and a half ago.

"I`d love to stay. I`m happy with my team-mates and with the way I am treated here."

Sunil Chhetri all set to guide kids on a unique 8-day camp in Delhi

New Delhi: Sunil Chhetri, the captain of the Indian National football team is going to play a major role in organizing a first of its kind 8-day football camp in New Delhi later this month.

Letzplay, a private organization that has focused on improving the state of Indian football are the original planners of the camp. Chhetri however, has lent his helping hand for the young company.

“Yes, Sunil Chettri will guide the participants in the camp,” confirmed Sonu Lamba, an official of the company to Goal.

The camp will be held on 16-23rd of June in the Ambedkar Stadium in the capital. The camp will have both male and female participants, boys of the age groups 12-14 and 14-16 will be trained separately. There will also be a separate arrangement for the U-18 girls.

“We are very glad to have the Indian captain among us. He voluntarily agreed to be a part of the plan,” Lamba informed.

“We are not planning to make any superstars in the course of 8 days. The finer points of the game will be discussed here. Chhetri will talk on the diet, the exercises that help one to be a complete footballer. It’s not all about what happens on the field. Participating in the camp will help a kid understand the necessary sleeping hours and training schedules,” Lamba remarked.

When asked about the exact role of the Churchill Brothers striker, he told that Chhettri is all set to play the pivotal role in the camp.

“He will be the main speaker. He has played top-level football and understands the basic requirements. He will be motivating the kids. We have seen the Indian talent gets lost in the age group of 12-16 years. I think our U-12 boys can compete against any football superpower. But the scene changes in the U-16 level. So, he will take care of the young talents and show them the right path. We also have the mission of giving both boys and girls same importance in the field. He will also work on that.”

The selection procedure for the camp has started and coaches are taking tests of the kids who have registered so far. 50 boys will be chosen in each of the categories while 30 girls will be trained.

Lamba stressed that this is going to be the first of many such camps. “This is our first venture of this kind. We will then like to arrange for such camps in other places also. Ultimately, we plan to build up a top class academy for the betterment of Indian football,” he signed off.

`Star` Ronaldo shocks Real with 32 mln pound deal demand to stop Man U return

London: Real Madrid has been reportedly shocked by their superstar Cristiano Ronaldo`s demand of a whopping 32 million pounds-a-year deal to stop him from returning back to Manchester United.

Although the Spanish giants are adamant that Ronaldo will not be leaving them this summer and are now trying to agree a deal to keep their Portuguese idol for the rest of his career, Ronaldo is determined to cash in on his iconic status and is looking for a mega deal to make him the highest-paid footballer in history.

The Portuguese forward, who is considering his options at the Bernabeu and knows that United will welcome him back with open arms, reportedly wants an annual wage of 17 million pounds from Madrid, plus 100 per cent of his image rights contract from the club, which could be worth as much as 15 million pounds per year.

Stating that even a club as rich as Real Madrid has been shocked by the figures being bandied around by Ronaldo`s representatives, the report further said that the club fears that the figures are just the player`s opening scheme in a probable long, complicated contract negotiations.

However, Real president Florentino Perez has said that he believed that there is plenty of time to haggle over a new deal with Ronaldo before they think about selling him as Ronaldo, who cost Real a world record 80 million pounds when they signed him from United in 2009, still has two years of his current 200,000 pounds-a-week contract at Real.

But sources close to Ronaldo have indicated the player`s demands are not motivated by greed but his determination to prove himself to be the biggest star in the world.

Although Ronaldo is determined to top Barcelona rival Lionel Messi `s 14 million pounds yearly wages, but Real is unlikely to agree to those terms and will look to strike a compromise deal with a player who has scored 201 goals in four seasons at the Bernabeu.

United still refuse to rule out the prospect of tempting Ronaldo back to the Premier League but would have to smash their wage structure to even come close to matching his terms.

Ronaldo can be Madrid`s top signing, says Arbeloa

England: The full-back is hopeful that the former Manchester United star will ink a contract extension and does not fear the competition of Daniel Carvajal.

Alvaro Arbeloa has stressed that it would be a huge boost for Real Madrid if Cristiano Ronaldo were to ink a contract extension.

The Portugal international has been linked with a move away from the Santiago Bernabeu side on more than one occasion, but club president Florentino Perez stated earlier this week that he expects that the attacker will stay at Madrid until the end of his career.

Ronaldo has a contract with the Liga giants until the summer of 2015, but Arbeloa is hopeful that the 28-year-old will ink a new deal this year.

"The best signing Real Madrid could make would be Cristiano Ronaldo renewing his contract," the defender told La Sexta.

"I hope that Cristiano will stay at Madrid for many more years."

The full-back then took the time to reflect on the return of Daniel Carvajal from Bayer Leverkusen and stressed that he does not fear the youngster`s competition.

"There has always been stiff competition for places at Madrid. I will only benefit from his arrival."

Carvajal, 21, left Madrid for Leverkusen in 2012, but the Spanish giants re-signed him this summer after he impressed in the Bundesliga this term.

Alonso hails `perfect` communicator Mourinho

Spain: The Portuguese was painted as a divisive figure in the Spanish capital, but the defensive midfielder could only speak highly of his experience playing under the 50-year-old.

Xabi Alonso has paid tribute to Jose Mourinho by claiming that the former Real Madrid coach never lost the dressing room during his time at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The 50-year-old`s last season at the helm of the Blancos was marred by reports of conflicts with numerous personnel - including captain Iker Casillas and Spain international Sergio Ramos.

But in Alonso`s eyes, contrary to media perceptions, Mourinho - who has since left Madrid in favour of a return to Chelsea - is not a divisive figure, but rather a "perfect" communicator.

"He`s someone who can touch a chord and knows how to perfectly transmit messages in the dressing room. He is a good communicator," he said.

"He knows how and when to make quick decisions which can change the outcome of a game."

Alonso has undergone surgery on a groin injury and will consequently be out of action for six to eight weeks, thus missing the opportunity to represent Spain at the Confederations Cup.

Moratti keen to redevelop San Siro

Spain: A new stadium had previously been on the Nerazzurri`s agenda, but the 68-year-old believes they can make their old home profitable once more.

Massimo Moratti has revealed that Inter are considering the idea of redeveloping the San Siro in the near future.

The Nerazzurri have long been expected to move away from the 90,000-seater venue, which has attracted dwindling numbers in recent times along with the perception that the arena has become dated.

However, according to the Inter president, there could be plans afoot to renovate the ground rather than build a new stadium from scratch as he believes their current home could become "beautiful" again.

"There is a nice project [in the pipelines] for San Siro. It can become a beautiful stadium again and bring a financial return. There is an immediate need for a new facility," said Moratti.

Moratti then admitted to holding talks with Indonesian tycoon Erick Thorir, who has reportedly tabled an offer in the region of €300m to purchase the club, but was quick to add that there were other interested parties.

"The main topic we discussed was how to take the club forward, but the Indonesians are not the only ones [looking to buy the club], there are others," he added.

"I`ll see who else comes forward and whether or not we can take an important step in regards to selling Inter shares."

Van Persie `honoured` by Netherlands captaincy

London: The prolific striker took the national team`s armband for the first time in Friday`s 3-0 friendly win over Indonesia, confirming that the appointment is for the long term.

Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has declared himself "honoured" to be named the new captain of Netherlands.

The ex-Arsenal forward has scored 34 goals in 74 games for Oranje and took the armband for the first time in a 3-0 friendly win over Indonesia on Friday.

"I`m very honoured with this," he told reporters after the game. "On Monday the coach [Louis van Gaal] asked me if I wanted to be captain. It`s very flattering so I accepted.

"This choice is not only for now but for a longer period."

Arjen Robben`s late goal and Siem de Jong`s double gave Van Persie’s side a 3-0 win over their opponents in Jakarta and the United star was pleased with their performance.

"It was a tough match because of the heat and breathing was pretty heavy," he observed, "but, with this in mind, we did very well, I think.

"You can`t always put pressure on your opponent. We want to play our own game and sometimes you have to let the opponent come.

"The atmosphere was very nice. I`ve been in these countries before with my clubs and it`s always nice to see all these people react so enthusiastically."

Prandelli advocates De Rossi move

Italy: The 29-year-old Roma midfielder has been the subject of interest from Chelsea and the Italy head coach believes a summer switch would benefit his progress as a player.

Italy head coach Cesare Prandelli thinks Daniele De Rossi should leave Roma at the end of the season as it would present a new test in his career.

The 29-year-old has spent his entire career with Giallorossi, but strong rumours of interest from Jose Mourinho at Chelsea could sway De Rossi to leave the club he adores.

Prandelli says a move elsewhere would be a good thing for the midfielder`s development.

"Maybe leaving Roma would be a defeat on a personal level for Daniele De Rossi, but professionally I believe it would be a good thing," Prandelli told RAI.

De Rossi has made over 400 appearances for Roma, scoring 47 goals since his debut in 2001. He has won two Coppa Italia`s in his time at the club, as well as the 2006 World Cup with Italy.

Prandelli also spoke about Mario Balotelli, saying that people`s perceptions of the AC Milan striker are not always correct.

He added: "It`s not up to him to be more mature but people see him with different eyes. Mario has always been ready. He was born ready."

Goa football club slams AIFF over I-League, IPL-style event

Panaji: A leading Goa soccer club on Saturday slammed the All India Football Federation (AIFF) decision to bring in far-reaching changes in the existing I-League format and promote an IPL-style tournament.

By bringing in changes in the I-League format, introducing a cap on the number of teams, permitting and actively promoting an IPL-style franchise league bang in the middle of the football season, AIFF will be sounding death knell for club football in India, said Peter Vaz, President of Sporting Clube de Goa.

"Crucial decisions were taken by AIFF at an emergency meeting (last week). One fails to understand what was the need of taking such decisions by bypassing the AIFF Executive Committee and the clubs.”

"The I-League has been broken up into Western and Eastern conference without any consultation whatsoever with the clubs who are the main stake-holders," he said.

The apex football body, at the emergency meeting, decided to introduce the USA`s Major League Soccer-style conference format in a bid to reduce the cost of holding the I-League, besides also changing the Federation Cup from knockout to home-and-away format.

"When the AIFF is getting its entire revenue from the I-League marketing rights, why was it afraid to call a meeting of the I-league Committee, where all clubs are represented, to discuss the changes in the I-League structure? This shows AIFF`s lack of respect for the clubs who are the backbone of Indian football," stated Vaz.

At a time when we are trying to emulate the best practices in the sport, introducing the conference model is nothing but a retrograde step. This will devalue the league and convert it into a regional tournament, making it harder to sell the event to sponsors and broadcasters, he maintained.

It is clear the sole purpose of changes in the league structure is to accommodate IMG-Reliance, AIFF`s marketing and commercial partner, and their franchise league, Vaz said.

AIFF and IMG-Reliance have decided to organise the IPL-style tournament early next year. I-League clubs have opposed the event.

"By sanctioning and actively promoting a parallel franchise league, AIFF is creating a monster which will devour the I-League and finish the existing clubs in India."

"Nowhere in the world does such a league exist and that too bang in the middle of the country`s premier league," the Goa club President said.

Torres understands Suarez desire to quit Liverpool over criticism from English media

London: The Reds star has explained his unhappiness at being the subject of excessive attention from reporters and the often-criticised Chelsea striker offers his sympathy.

Chelsea striker Fernando Torres says that he understands Luis Suarez`s desire to leave Liverpool rather than continue to deal with the English media.

The Reds talisman outlined in May his preference to seek an exit rather than be the focus of reporters after a controversy-stained period in the Premier League, while team-mate Pepe Reina also admits that he sees why the forward might want to leave.

The Spaniard, who has had to deal with frequent criticism during his poor spells of form at Stamford Bridge, believes that the Uruguayan is able to cope with the attention should he choose to do so but would not begrudge him a departure in order to avoid it.

"I never had a problem with the media, the media had a problem with me," Torres told reporters.

"That affects your family, your friends, it`s not easy.

"I know Luis, he is strong enough to play football despite all the rumours and all the talk but it`s not easy. Sometimes he might think it`s just better to forget about that and move away but it`s his decision."

Suarez has often been in the headlines for the wrong reasons over his time in the Premier League and is currently serving a 10-match ban for biting Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic during a game.

I`ve not decided my future, says Grenier

England: The Olympique Lyonnais ace claimed in May that a decision had already been made following Arsenal interest but now says he will consider later.

Olympique Lyonnais midfielder Clement Grenier admits that he has not yet made a decision over his future amid interest from Arsenal.

The 22-year-old claimed in May that he had already determined his next move but did not disclose whether he was staying with the French club or linking up with Arsene Wenger`s side.

Grenier is currently on international duty with France and earned his first senior cap after coming off the bench in his nation`s 1-0 defeat to Uruguay on Wednesday.

"I`m training here in Uruguay and Brazil. It feels good to be far from France right now because I`ve heard a lot of things about me lately," the midfielder told reporters.

"I can`t give answers to everybody. I want to enjoy these 10 days of training. We will see about my future after the internationals, during my vacation."

Earlier in May, Wenger confirmed to French football programme Telefoot that his side were tracking Grenier and likened the midfielder to former Arsenal player Samir Nasri.

Messi admits he was not fit against Colombia

Buenos Aires: Lionel Messi admitted that he was not fit to play in Argentina`s goalless draw with Colombia in their World Cup qualifier at the Estadio Monumental.

Messi, who had not played since May 12 due to a thigh injury, was introduced by Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella in the 55th minute Thursday..

"I`m not well. Today I could play a little but I wasn`t sure how my leg was going to respond," Messi said after the match.

"We spoke about it before the match with the coach and decided that it would be best to come on for a while in the second half."

The Barcelona striker criticized the decision to rule out Sergio Aguero`s 72nd-minute striker for off side, which came after Messi was deemed to have interfered from an illegal position.

"I didn`t make my run too early and nor did I threaten to do so. It wasn`t offside. I told the referee (Marlon Escalante) but he said he had already allowed the goal."

The 25-year-old admitted he wasn`t sure if he would be fit to play in Argentina`s next South America zone qualifier against Ecuador in Quito Tuesday.

"I don`t know, I haven`t played for a long time," he said. "Playing at altitude takes a lot out of you. Even if I don`t play, the team will be going out to win."

Bale better than Neymar, insists Toshack

Germany: The former Real Madrid boss has nothing but praise for his compatriot and thinks he`s an even better player than the Brazil international.

Former Real Madrid coach John Toshack believes that Tottenham star Gareth Bale is a better player than new Barcelona signing Neymar and thinks the Welshman is on the same level as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Bale is continually being linked with a move to Madrid and the former Santiago Bernabeu boss has little doubt that his compatriot will be a success at the Blancos if he were to move to Spain.

"He’s better than Neymar, because he’s playing in a more competitive league. If someone is worth €100 million right now, it’s Bale. With Neymar we’ll have to wait and see," Toshack told Punto Pelota.

"Even a blind man can see he’s got something different. He’s an all-terrain vehicle, an introvert, a modest and outstanding professional. The injuries he suffered as a youngster made him stronger.

"It’s said that we’ve never seen anything like Messi, and people talk a lot about the strength of Cristiano Ronaldo, but Bale is close to the two of them.

"He’s up there with the Ronaldos and the Messis. He’ll play for one of the two big clubs in Spain. He’s made for the Champions League."

The 23-year-old has a contract with Spurs until the summer of 2016.

Lukaku hints at Chelsea stay

London: The Belgium international, who scored 17 Premier League goals on loan at West Brom in 2012-13, indicates that he has a place in Jose Mourinho`s squad next season.

Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku has hinted that he may remain at Stamford Bridge next season under new manager Jose Mourinho.

The 20-year-old spent the whole of last season on loan at West Brom, where he scored 17 goals in 35 Premier League appearances.

Reports have suggested that Lukaku will be sent back out on another temporary deal next term but the Belgium international has indicated that he may be handed a role under Mourinho.

"I already know where I`m going, or where I`ll be heading back to, but I won`t say any more than that," the forward told reporters.

"The only thing I will say is that I want to succeed at Chelsea and I`m not scared of competition.

"I have to prove myself again, even if he gives me some credit you still start from zero every single day. I`m going there with the intention to succeed."

Argentina held by c in World Cup qualifier

Buenos Aires: Sergio Aguero had two goals ruled out for offside as Argentina were held to a goalless draw by Colombia in a fiery World Cup qualifier at the Estadio Monumental.

Tensions boiled over in the 25th minute when Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain and Colombian centre-back Cristian Zapata were sent off by referee Marlon Escalante for a clash here Friday.

Barcelona idol Lionel Messi, who has not played for a month due to a thigh injury, was introduced as a second-half substitute but struggled to make an impact. He did however play a role in Aguero`s disallowed 72nd-minute strike.

Replays showed the Manchester City forward`s goal should have stood after Messi was incorrectly ruled to have been involved from an offside position.

The result leaves Argentina with 25 points from 12 matches in the South America zone standings, five points ahead of second-placed Colombia on 20 points. Ecuador are third, also on 20 points but with an inferior goal difference.

In other Conmebol qualifiers Friday, Bolivia drew 1-1 at home to Venezuela, Chile overcame Paraguay 2-1 while Peru defeated Ecuador 1-0.

Argentina can guarantee their passage to the World Cup finals in Brazil next year by defeating Ecuador in Quito, Tuesday, while Colombia will all but assure their place with victory over Peru in Barranquilla.

In Tuesday`s other matches, Chile host Bolivia while Uruguay travel to Venezuela in a game the reigning Copa America champions cannot afford to lose.

The top-four South American teams will earn direct qualification to the 2014 World Cup while fifth will play-off for a place against the fifth-ranked team from Asia.

Brazil captain Silva in doubt for France friendly

Porto Alegre (Brazil): Brazil captain Thiago Silva is in doubt for Sunday`s international friendly against France here due to injury.

The Paris Saint-Germain center-back was absent from training Friday, reportedly suffering muscle soreness following Brazil`s 2-2 draw with England at the Maracana stadium last Sunday.

His place could be taken by Atletico Mineiro defender Rever, who partnered David Luiz in the heart of defence during match simulation Friday.

Meanwhile, former Manchester City striker Jo is expected to start on the bench in place of Leandro Damiao, cut from Brazil`s Confederations Cup squad with a torn quadriceps.

Coach Felipe Scolari is also set to recall Real Madrid left-back Marcelo at the expense of Atletico Madrid`s Filipe Luis.

Marcelo was used as a second-half substitute against England as Scolari eased the 25-year-old back to full-fitness following an injury-ravaged 2012-13 season.

Sunday`s clash will be Brazil`s final warm-up before their Confederations Cup debut against Japan in Brasilia June 15.

Postiga strike gives Portugal tight win over Russia

Lisbon: Portugal strengthened their hopes of a place at next year’s World Cup after an early goal from Helder Postiga proved enough to scrape a 1-0 home win over an out-of-sorts Russia side.

Portugal’s three points send them top of Group F with 14 points from seven games, but they have played two more games than Russia, who are second on 12 points, and one more than Israel, third on 11.

Friday`s victory was a boost for a Portugal side who had won just one of their last six games, including a 0-1 loss in Moscow in October.

Russia manager Fabio Capello loses his unbeaten record from his first eight games since taking charge 11 months ago.

"I think that the team played a good game. We didn`t deserve the defeat - a draw would be fair," Capello said. "In football it happens that one team plays better, or sometimes the other. We were playing away to strong opponents."

Portugal coach Paulo Bento said the result evened out the two teams` record after Russia`s win in Moscow. "In Russia we played well and were punished for a mistake at the start of the game. Both the games against Russia were balanced."

Postiga poked his team ahead nine minutes into the game at Benfica’s Estadio da Luz, sending the ball in off the post off Miguel Veloso’s low, curling free-kick from wide.

"It was a very well taken free-kick. It`s hard to stop when the ball flies in like that," Capello said.

Russia midfielder Denis Glushakov should have equalised on 35 minutes when he contrived to send the ball wide in front of an open goal.

Portugal goalkeeper Rui Patricio had taken the bizarre decision to palm away a cross well away from his goal, leaving him stranded as Yuri Zhirkov crossed for Glushakov, who hit the ball with the outside of his right boot and sent it trickling past the post.

Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo had a poor game by his high standards, making little impact on the Russian defence. He sent one shot straight at Russia goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev from a good position shortly after the break, and his other efforts were off-target speculative shots.

The Russians had a penalty claim turned down when an Alexander Kerzhakov cross came off the arm of Fabio Coentrao in the box as the defender slid to block. Soon after, Kerzhakov claimed he was fouled by Bruno Alves while running through on goal, but referee Damir Skomina disagreed.

On 78 minutes, Russian substitute Vladimir Bystrov believed he’d scored, but it was ruled out for a blatant offside. Russia’s last real chance came when Roman Shirokov hit a tame effort straight at Rui Patricio from the edge of the box.

Later on, Portugal had chances to secure the win with a second goal on the break as Russia pushed forward, but failed to take them.

There were injury worries for Capello, who was forced into two first-half substitutions in quick succession. First, Glushakov replaced Viktor Faizulin, who did not seem badly hurt, before the uncapped Alexei Kozlov came on for right-back Alexander Anyukov, who suffered a back injury.

Capello was also forced to contend with an injury crisis in the run-up to the game, which left Kerzhakov as the only fit striker from his original squad. When the Zenit St. Petersburg front man failed to perform, Russia were left with few attacking options, and were almost wholly reliant on winger Bystrov in attack in the second half.

Earlier Friday, Azerbaijan went fourth in the group with a 1-1 draw at home to Luxembourg, who stay sixth and last.

Russia are next in action away to Northern Ireland Aug 14 in a game postponed from March due to bad weather. Sep 6 will see the next full round of games, as Russia host Luxembourg, Portugal visit Belfast and Israel take on Azerbaijan.

Kiwi batsmen versus Lankan spinners in next CT clash

Cardiff: Their morale sky high after a 2-1 series win over England, New Zealand would look to carry their good form into the Champions Trophy when they clash with Sri Lanka in a Group A match here on Sunday.

Sri Lanka have an overwhelming record of winning 10 of their last 11 ODI matches and six in a row against the Kiwis but the Black Caps would back themselves to reverse the trend particularly when their batsmen are in superb touch.

Opener Martin Guptill smashed two consecutive hundreds against England and Ross Taylor hit half-centuries in all the three matches of the series.

Skipper Brendon McCullum on his day can demolish any attack, so much of the Kiwis` fortunes would depend on how their top-order performs.

The Kiwis are also perhaps the best acclimatised side after hosts England having spent some good amount of time here. They know the conditions well which will help them sort out their team combination quickly.

However, while against England they faced a pace-pronged attack, in Sri Lanka they face a side which is full of wily spinners, led by Sachitra Senanayake. Jeevan Mendis, Rangana Herath are other specialist spinner while Tillakaratne Dilshan can also be handy.

That spin attack would be key to Sri Lanka`s performance even as Lasith Malinga and Nuwan Kulasekara can do the job in helpful conditions.

Even Kiwi coach Mike Hesson has acknowledged this fact.

"We could conceivably be facing 30-35 overs of spin. We need to be proactive against it," Hesson said ahead of the clash.

The big worry for Sri Lanka is their batting. Neither the top-order nor the middle order batsmen are in good form. Mahela Jaywardene and Kumar Sangakkara never looked in good touch during the recent IPL.

Skipper Angelo Mathewes too had to sit and and give up captaincy of his IPL side due to poor form.

It means that the Kiwi attack, to be led by young paceman Mitchell McClenaghan, will bowl at a bunch of batsmen who are short on confidence.

Tim Southee, Kyle Mills, Dough Bracewell form the pace department while Nathan McCullum will look after the spin department.

Teams from:

New Zealand: Brendon McCullum (C), Doug Bracewell, Ian Butler, Grant Elliott, James Franklin, Martin Guptill, Mitchell McClenaghan, Nathan McCullum, Kyle Mills, Colin Munro, Luke Ronchi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Daniel Vettori, Kane Williamson.

Sri Lanka: Angelo Mathews (C), Dinesh Chandimal, Dilhara Lokuhettige, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Shaminda Eranga, Rangana Herath, Mahela Jayawardene, Nuwan Kulasekara, Lasith Malinga, Jeevan Mendis, Kusal Perera, Thisara Perera, Kumar Sangakkara, Sachithra Senanayake and Lahiru Thirimanne.

Betting is a disgusting habit: Shah Rukh Khan

New Delhi: Speaking on the IPL spot-fixing and betting scandal, Kolkata Knight Riders owner Shah Rukh Khan has said that the team owners should stay away from such practices.

“I think as a team owner one should not indulge in all these practices even if you are a betting person by nature. If you’re an owner, you’re aware of all the rules and the loopholes and it’s undignified to misuse them,” Shah Rukh said in an interview to a leading Indian daily.

On the issue of Rajasthan Royals co-owner Raj Kundra’s alleged involvement in the betting scandal, Shah Rukh said that one should not jump to conclusions so soon adding that the claims of a bookie should be verified.

“I’m sure he (Raj Kundra) will fight this battle legally and something will come out of it. These are claims of bookies which need to be verified. I don’t think bookies should be believed the moment they take a name,” he said.

The Bollywood superstar said that betting is a “disgusting habit” and those involved in it should be punished.

Anti-south Indian lobby in BCCI conspiring against me: N Srinivasan

New Delhi: N Srinivasan has claimed that he is a victim of an anti-south Indian lobby in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that is conspiring against him.

Srinivasan was responding to a query regarding Janata Party chief Subramanian Swamy’s tweet in which the latter has claimed that a north Indian lobby was targeting south Indians in the BCCI.

"It is an open secret that there is a conspiracy against south Indians," he said in an interview to a TV channel.

Srinivasan was forced to step aside from the post of BCCI’s president following the arrest of his son-in-law Gurunath Meiyappan’s in the IPL spot-fixing and betting scandal.

He said that the charges against Gurunath will be disproved.

"I have trust in him and believe that he will come out unscathed. The charges against him will be disproved," he said.

2013 ICC Champions Trophy Live Score: England vs Australia

LIVE SCORE» I LIVE COMMENTARY»
 

AUSTRALIA: Over: 5 II Score: 17/0

The Aussies got off to a slow start as they have managed to score just 17 runs in the first five overs. Broad and Anderson have been impressive and they have got England to a good start. Watson in particular has been very slow with just seven runs off 14 balls.

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ENGLAND: Over: 50 II Score: 269/6

England were 218 at the end of 45 overs and Bresnan (19) and Bopara (46*) have helped them reach a defendable score. These two added unbeaten 56 runs for the seventh wicket. Australia would take that as at one stage England were looking to reach the 300-run mark.

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ENGLAND: Over: 45 II Score: 218/6

Australian bowlers are now doing an excellent job as they are picking wickets at regular intervals as England are trying to accelerate. McKay dismissed Morgan while he was shuffling and was bowled while the dangerous Buttler managed to score just one run.

EJG Morgan b McKay 8 (12b)

JC Buttler b Faulkner 1 (2b)

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ENGLAND: Over: 40 II Score: 196/4

After playing a fantastic knock, Ian Bell was dismissed by James Faulkner as he missed a straight one that knocked his stumps. Bell left the ground to a standing ovation from the crowd who would have been happier doing so in case if he slammed a ton. Nonetheless it was a superb innings. Just few balls later Root smashed one straight to midwicket. Eoin Morgan and Ravi Bopara are two new batsmen at the crease. The match is evenly poised right now.

JE Root c Bailey b McKay 12 (17b)

IR Bell b Faulkner 91 (115b)

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ENGLAND: Over: 35 II Score: 173/2

Mitchell Starch finally got the second breakthrough for Australia as Trott slashed hard at a ball which had width on offer and edged it to Mathew Wade. The dismissal also ended the 111-run partnership between Bell and Trott. Joe Root is the new man in.

IJL Trott c Wade b Starc 43 (56b)

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ENGLAND: Over: 30 II Score: 142/1

Ian Bell and Jonathan Trott continue to impress with their stroke play and Australia are still searching for their second breakthrough. Bell has scored 77 from 98 balls while Trott is playing at 30. The partnership for the second wicket has been extended to 92 runs.

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ENGLAND: Over: 25 II Score: 111/1

Bell and Trott have added 24 runs in the last five overs and they have so far stitched an unbeaten 54-run partnership for the second wicket. Both the batsmen have played some good strokes so far and at this rate, England can hope to score anything above 300.

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ENGLAND: Over: 20 II Score: 87/1

Jonathan Trott is the new man in the middle. Off the 16th came just two runs. In the next, bowled by Starc, Trott scored his first boundary. Four runs came in it. James Faulkner was introduced into the attack and he gave away six runs in his first over. Four came off the next while 20th fetched England three singles.
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ENGLAND: Over: 15 II Score: 68/1

Just two runs were scored in the 11th over. However, off the next, England lost their first wicket when Cook edged one from Watson to wicketkeeper Matthew Wade. He scored 30 (42b, 4X3) before departing. A wicket and a run from the over. The 13th and 14th over saw England scoring six runs - three in each. Starc was called back by Bailey and his third went for five.
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ENGLAND: Over: 10 II Score: 54/0

Off the sixth over, England could manage only three runs. The fourth delivery of the next bowled by McKay was outside off and an open invitation to drive. The result was a cover drive from Cook that ended beyond the fence. Six came from it. The third delivery of the next from Johnson was full and Cook drove it through covers for another boundary. Nine runs came from it. The next by McKay proved to be a tight over. Just one run was scored in it. Bailey then handed the ball to his allrounder Shane Watson. He was greeted by Bell with a boundary to long off. That shot also brought up the 50 runs for England. Eight runs from it.
====================================================================================

ENGLAND: Over: 5 II Score: 27/0

Michael Clarke isn't playing for Australia today. In his place, George Bailey will captain the side.

Alastair Cook and Ian Bell have opened the innings for England. Mitchell Starc bowled the first over of the innings. The hosts were off to a positive start with their captain Cook scoring a boundary off the first delivery to deep backward square leg. Five runs came from the opening over. Mitchell Johnson bowled the second over and he gave just a single in his first. Off the second delivery of the next (by Starc), the Australians missed a run out chance as Bell looked for a single but Cook (the striker) wasn't interested. Warner threw the ball at the striker's end even though Bell was well out of his crease. That resulted in two overthrows. Off the penultimate delivery, Bell scored a boundary through covers. Four runs came in the next. Clint McKay was introduced in the next. Off his fourth, Bell scored his second boundary. Seven runs came in the over.
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TOSS: England have won the toss and will bat first.

Two-time defending champions they might be, but Australia are looking more vulnerable than ever as they brace up for their Champions Trophy Group A opener against confident Ashes rivals England here on saturday.

Their patchy form aside, Aussies have a major worry to deal with as skipper Michael Clarke`s long-standing back problem has flared up once again, making him a doubtful starter for tomorrow`s match.

The inspirational skipper is a crucial cog in the Australian scheme of things given that his batting form has more often than not been the difference between a win and loss for the team in the past few months.

Teams:

Australia: David Warner, Shane Watson, Phillip Hughes, George Bailey(c), Adam Voges, Mitchell Marsh, Matthew Wade(w), James Faulkner, Mitchell Johnson, Mitchell Starc, Clint McKay

England: Alastair Cook(c), Ian Bell, Jonathan Trott, Joe Root, Eoin Morgan, Ravi Bopara, Jos Buttler(w), Tim Bresnan, Stuart Broad, James Tredwell, James Anderson

David Ferrer beats Tsonga, enters his maiden Grand Slam final

 

Paris: David Ferrer wrecked French hopes of a first male champion at Roland Garros in 30 years on Friday when he defeated Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 6-1, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2 in the semifinals. 

 

It was a crippling blow to the sixth seed who was out to match the feat of Yannick Noah, who last won the title for France in 1983. 

 

But it was a richly deserved reward foroutstanding perseverance on the part of 31-year-old Ferrer, who reached his first Grand Slam final in his 42nd appearance, by far the longest wait in the Open Era. 

 

In the final, he has the daunting task of going up against fellow Spaniard and seven-time champion Rafael Nadal, who defeated world number one Novak Djokovic 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7 (3/7), 9-7 in the first semifinal. 

 

Nadal leads their head-to-heads 19-4. 

 

It will be the first all-Spanish final since 2002 when Albert Costadefeated Juan Carlos Ferrero. 

 

"I am really happy to be in the final at Roland Garros. It's my first ever Grand Slam final," said Ferrer, who has yet to drop a set in the tournament. 

 

"I am older, but more experienced. I am not too tired, so this is very important. To play the final against Rafael Nadal I need to be 100 percent to be able to play good against him." 

 

The match had been given top billing in France as the belief was growing that the popular Tsonga could end 30 years of French frustration on the red claycourts of Roland Garros. 

 

The 28-year-old from the car-racing town of Le Mans revved up home hopes of a title win on Sunday with his straight sets demolition of 17-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer in the quarterfinals. 

 

But coming immediately after the marathon, five-set win by Nadal over Djokovic in the opening semi, there was a sense of anti-climax when the players marched out onto a half-empty centre court in the early evening sunshine. 

 

The mood was not helped either when Ferrer made by far the better start, jumping out into a 4-0 lead in just 15 minutes. 

 

The crowd chanted Tsonga's name in a bid to kick-start his match, but little was going right for the Frenchman who was playing in his first French Open semifinal in what was his sixth attempt. 

 

He did have a break point in the following game, but failed to convert that as he found himself embroiled in a succession of punishing baseline rallies - bread and butter to a player like Ferrer. 

 

The Spaniard, who lost to Nadal in last year's semifinals, duly wrapped up the set 6-1 and Tsonga was left looking decidedly tight and unable to deploy his own big-hitting game. 

 

Tsonga nosed in front at the start of the second set and that appeared to briefly unlock the door for the Frenchman as he broke to love in the following game. 

 

He took a 3-0 lead, but Ferrer broke back to 3-2 with Tsonga hotly contesting a line call against him on break point. 

 

A double fault from the home hero handed Ferrer another break to lead 4-3, but he handed that back in the next game with a couple of uncustomary unforced errors. 

 

Tsonga hit long on set point at 5-4 and that proved costly as he dropped the ensuing tie-break 7/3 to go two sets to love down. 

 

French hopes were fading fast and they dimmed even further early in the third set as Ferrer broke in the fourth game to lead 3-1. 

 

That was all he needed as an increasingly frustrated Tsonga looked bereft of ideas and lost in his own thoughts, at one point forgetting to tell Ferrer he was serving with new balls. 

 

Ferrer got to 5-2 up and won five points in a row from 40-0 down on Tsonga's serve to clinch the win.

 

 

French Open 2013: An angry Djokovic blames court after Nadal defeat

 

Paris: Novak Djokovic hit out at Roland Garros officials after his epic five-set defeat toRafael Nadal on Friday, claiming that his demands for the Court Philippe Chatrier surface to be improved were ignored.

 

The world number one twice battled from a set and a break down to lead 4-2 in the fifth set before a succession of rows with chair umpire Pascal Maria and tournament supervisor Stefan Fransson threw his challenge off course.

 

Djokovic claimed that the court was too dry and slippery, making smooth movement across the surface too difficult, and he even summoned Fransson onto the court to vent his frustrations at the court not being watered.

 

"Off the court I was told that it's the groundstaff who make the final decision on watering. The supervisor said it was him who decides," said Djokovic, after his 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7 (3/7), 9-7 loss.

 

"The wind was blowing a lot of clay off the top and after every changeover in the final set I was asking how long are we going to play. The supervisor said he'd talk to the grounds people.

 

"I was not asking to water the court because I want to make my opponent trip or do something like that. I was doing it for myself, because I felt that it got very dry and it was very slippery.

 

"If one player says yes to watering of the court and the other says no, in the end whose opinion has more value?

 

"It takes 30 seconds to one minute to water the court. It was too difficult to change direction. I think it was wrong what they did."

 

Djokovic also lost a point when he was a break up at 4-3 and deuce when he collided with the net as he put away a smash which would have put him a point away from being 5-3 ahead.

 

Adding to his frustrations was Maria giving him a warning for a time violation after he was adjudged to have taken too long to serve.

 

Nadal had earlier been penalised a point for the same offence.

 

"I haven't seen the replay so I can't really make a judgement on whether he was right or wrong. My argument was that the ball was already out of the court when I touched the net," said Djokovic whose challenge was undermined by 75 unforced errors.

 

"Who knows what direction the match may have taken if I had won that point. On 99.9 per cent of other occasions, I would have got the point."

 

Djokovic, who still needs a French Open title to complete the career Grand Slam, praised Nadal for battling back to reach an eighth Roland Garros final.

 

"I congratulate my opponent because he showed courage at the right moments and went for his shots even when he was a break down," said Djokovic after his fifth loss to Nadal in Paris.

 

"He fought and showed why he is such a great champion."

 

Nadal took his career record at the French Open to 58 wins from 59 matches.

 

"I gave everything I had. I came back after the third set and played better as the match went on, but it wasn't good enough," said Djokovic.

 

 

French Open 2013: Rafael Nadal beats Djokovic in thrilling 5-setter to reach final

Paris: Defending champion Rafael Nadal moved closer to an historic eighth French Open title Friday when he defeated world number one Novak Djokovic 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7 (3/7), 9-7 in a titanic semi-final.

 

In Sunday's title match, the third seed will face fourth-seeded compatriot David Ferrer who ended French hopes of a first champion in 30 years by sweeping past Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 6-1, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2.

 

Nadal will be aiming to be the first man to win the same major eight times while 31-year-old Ferrer will be appearing in his first Grand Slam final.

 

   

He has reached the championship match at the 42nd time of asking but now faces overturning a 19-4 career deficit against his compatriot.

 

Nadal, the third seed, took his Paris record to a staggering 58 wins from 59 matches after recovering from 4-2 down in the deciding set to clinch victory after 4 hours and 37 minutes.

 

Friday's win was Nadal's 20th in 35 career clashes -- and 13th from 16 on clay -- against Djokovic. 

In a dramatic and controversial final set, Djokovic broke for 1-0 before Nadal levelled in the eighth game after the Serb had been handed a time violation and then lost a point when he collided with the net as he put away a smash.

 

Djokovic even summoned the tournament supervisor onto the court to rage over the court conditions as he prepared to serve at 7-8.

 

Nadal pounced, moving to three match points and clinched victory when Djokovic, who ended with an ugly 75 unforced errors, hit wild and long.

 

  

"It's a very special win for me and congratulations to Novak -- he's a great champion and he is going to win here at Garros one day," said Nadal, who had lost the pair's only other five-setter, the record-setting 2012 Australian Open final.

 

"When I was serving for the match it was against the wind so I knew that it would be a tough game.

 

"It was a similar match to the one in Australia in 2012 and he won. This time it is me that won and that is what makes sport so big."

 

  

 

Djokovic was furious that his demands for the court to be watered were ignored.

 

"I was not asking to water the court because I want to make my opponent trip or do something like that. I was doing it for myself, because I felt that it got very dry and it was very slippery," he said.

 

"If one player says yes to watering of the court and the other says no, in the end whose opinion has more value?"

 

   

On Sunday, Nadal will be appearing in his ninth final since returning from a seven-month injury lay-off.

 

"During these seven months out of the game there were some low moments, but everybody supported me and there was a lot of positive energy," added the Spaniard, who has already claimed six titles in 2013.

 

Nadal could have ended the tie before the fifth set as he was twice a set and a break up.

 

  

Ferrer ended home hopes of sixth-seeded Tsonga who was out to match the feat of Yannick Noah, who last won the title for France in 1983.

 

But it was a richly deserved reward for outstanding perseverance on the part of 31-year-old Ferrer, who reached his first 

Grand Slam final in his 42nd appearance, by far the longest wait in the Open Era.

 

It will be the first all-Spanish final since 2002 when Albert Costa defeated Juan Carlos Ferrero.

 

  

 

"I am really happy for me to be in the final at Roland Garros. It's my first ever Grand Slam final," said Ferrer, who has yet to drop a set in the tournament .

 

"I am older, but more experienced. I am not too tired, so this is very important. To play the final against Rafael Nadal I need to be 100 percent to be able to play good against him."

 

"My opponent played better. There has to be a winner and a loser," said Tsonga.