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Duminy blow opens door for Prince

Written By Unknown on Sabtu, 10 November 2012 | 14.23

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Injury ... Ashwell Prince could return to the South Africa Test team in place of JP Duminy. Source:AP

In a hugely ironic twist, South African batsman Ashwell Prince may have his 66-Test career resurrected by JP Duminy's tour-ending injury at the Gabba.

Prince looms as a leading contender to replace Duminy for the rest of the three-Test series after Duminy snapped his achilles tendon in a freak training accident on Friday afternoon.

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It was the former Proteas vice-captain's broken thumb which opened the door for Duminy to star in South Africa's last tour to Australia, helping them to a breakthrough 2-1 series triumph.

Now Duminy may have inadvertently returned the favour with South African selectors expected to be mulling over whether to call for Prince or fellow left-hander Dean Elgar.

South Africa A captain Faf du Plessis, 12th man for the Gabba Test, is virtually guaranteed to move into the Proteas' middle-order for the second Test in Adelaide.

Du Plessis confirmed his place as the next cab off the rank with 144 against Sri Lanka A in July, batting for a long time with Elgar who made 171 as an opener in Durban.

The uncapped Du Plessis also bowls leg-spin, making him more of a like-for-like replacement for Duminy.

Elgar, at 25, is 10 years younger than Prince but his top-order status and inexperience could cost him in comparison as Prince spent the bulk of his career in the Proteas' middle-order.

Despite a Test average of 41.64, the 35-year-old's cards appeared marked after being dropped following South Africa's upset loss to Sri Lanka in Durban 11 months ago.


Follow all the action in the first Test between Australia and South Africa from the Gabba in our Live and Interactive blog, starting 10am (ADT) on Saturday, November 11.


He failed in both innings, including an ill-advised reverse sweep in the first, and caused an embarrassing run-out by turning his back on partner Hashim Amla.

But Prince had his contract renewed this year with chief selector Andrew Hudson saying he was never written off.

"If Ashwell is playing well it can only benefit South Africa,'' Hudson said at the time. "He has been a great servant of the game and is still in our plans.''

Duminy, who scored a match-winning 166 against Australia in the 2008 Boxing Day Test, underwent surgery on Saturday morning but coach Gary Kirsten said a replacement had yet to be summoned.

Kirsten described the training mishap as "very unfortunate''.

"He just ran for some training runs which is a standard thing we do with the team and it was literally as benign as making a turn on a run and he snapped his achilles,'' he told ABC Radio.


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As it happened: AUS v SA, T1, D2

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Stretching their legs ... the Aussie players inspect the Gabba outfield. Source: Adam Head / News Limited

Day two of the first Test between Australia and South Africa has been abandoned without a ball being bowled.

1st Test - Gabba

9 November 2012 - Day 2, Session 3

South Africa 1st Innings

H. Amla 90 207 6 1 43.48
J. Kallis 84 135 8 1 62.22
M. Hussey 4 0 21 0 5.25

Australia would have been looking for early wickets against South Africa at the Gabba, but rain put paid to those plans as it fell persistently throughout the day.

Stumps

First ball: 11:00 AM November 9, 2012
Location: Gabba

Match Summary

Australia:
South Africa: 2/255

It wasn't all doom and gloom for foxsports.com.au users though, with former Tasmania and Australia all-rounder Brett Geeves joining us for a chat on Saturday morning. Read on to see what Brett had to say about the first Test, sledging, and one of the greatest dressing room pranks of all time!

Follow the action with our LIVE and INTERACTIVE blog, and join the conversation by leaving a comment at the bottom of the page or sending an email to blogs@foxsports.com.au!

You can also check out all the stats, pitch maps and wagon wheels at our Cricket Match Centre.


Latest comments (all times AEDT)

1711: This is Antony Pinshaw signing off from Fox Sports Blog HQ. See you tomorrow!

1709: There's also been confirmation that play on day three will start half an hour early - that's 10.30am EDT (9.30am local time). That means we'll be kicking things off on the live blog around 10am EDT, so make sure you join us then!

1706: STUMPS (SA 2-255, Amla 90*, Kallis 84*). So it turns out the umpires were out there to confirm that abandoning play was the right decision, and they've agreed that it is. So that's the end of day two, and what a disappointing one it was.

1705: The groundsmen are teasing us now - are they standing next to the covers because they're about to take them off, or because they're about to add more covers?

1701: The three umpires are now conferring with head groundsman Kevin Mitchell Jr. There is a fair amount of pointing and looking at the skies. Asad Rauf has his shirt untucked and sunglasses on his head - looks like one cool dude.

1658: Weather update: The umpires are out on the ground! Asad Rauf and Billy Bowden are inspecting the pitch area, while Paul Reiffel seems to have seen enough as he's walked off the ground already. Could we see some play today, or are they simply double-checking that calling the day off is the right decision? We'll keep you posted.

1651: Kendog of Newcastle says: Khawaja's form has continued by scoring a century on the Bellerive greentop. Surely he must be close to another call up if Cowan, Quiney or Warner fail.

Antony says: Kendog is right, Khawaja just brought up his ton on the same day and same ground that Tasmania were bowled out for 96! He looks to be in red-hot form.

1642: bowling man has written in on a slightly different topic: worrying times ahead for the aussies with test in Adelaide another road ahead so Kaliis and amla will be licking their lips

Antony says: That's a fair point, bowling man. Both sides could struggle to take 20 wickets at Adelaide Oval, but if one of the sides was more likely, you'd have to say it's the Proteas.

1634: For those that missed it, we had a great chat with former Tasmania and Australia all-rounder Brett Geeves this morning (you can read it in full if you scroll down the page). Brett made a pretty bold statement by saying South Africa's Jacques Kallis is the greatest cricketer of all time. Not just now, but EVER. What do you think?

1623: Worried about pace attack says: Bird and Cutting. Even Copeland would be better. Siddle and Hilf bowled with no bite yesterday.

Antony says: Not sure if Siddle and Hilfenhaus bowled as badly as many people are making out - if he was having a bit more luck, Siddle would have got both Kallis (caught of a no-ball) and Amla (dropped a relatively straight-forward catch) out, and they're two of the very best batsmen in the world.

1613: Weather update: it's still raining up in Brisbane. The day's play can offiicially be cancelled at 4pm local time, which is 5pm EDT. If something doesn't change dramatically in the next half hour or so, I think we're heading for that scneario.

1601: While I'm handing out links for you to read, it would be pertinent for those that are passionate about the DRS debate to read what the man in charge of the system has to say about it: click here.

1555: The 3rd Man of The 19th Hole says: Jim of Brisbane, yeah a roof would be great but unfortunately it would be easier to build a roof over the Gaba than it would to get the ICC to agree on a colour for the ball under lights. Add that to the way they are handling the DRS and it makes you wonder if the ICC is controlled by the same people who are running the ARLC. There's a thought, I hear Bill Harrigan is looking for a job, maybe the ICC could give him the job of the Umpires coach, that way he can change the rules every new over and then after Bill explains the decisions in the carpark after the match the Umpires could never be seen to make the wrong decision. But then again maybe not, that would mean that cricket would have 2 Bill the Dill's and god help us we all know 1 is more than enough.

Antony says: Note for non-NRL fans: Bill Harrigan was a rugby league referee who became the referees' coach for the NRL, until he was sacked a couple of weeks ago. You can read more about that here.

1548: Fred says: all i can see happening for the next 3 days is batting practice so the draw is going to happen. Do we know a replacement for JP Duminey who is here. When do they cancel play for the day and what happens for the next 3 days with more overs.

Antony says: Francois (Faf) Du Plessis will take Duminy's place in the field for this Test, and I'd say he'd be next in line to take Duminy's place for the second Test as well, unless they decide to go with an extra bowler. In regards to extra overs, I'm not 100 per cent sure on this, but I think they are allowed to start up to an hour early for the remaining days in order to make up the lost time.

1540: Good commitment shown by Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon here.

1532: Martin of WA says: I agree with the use of technology to get the decisions right, but do not agree with reviewing to see if it is a no ball or not. Games can be won or lost by one run, not only by the fall of a wicket. Every delivery is as important as another as they all influence the outcome of the game. If wicket taking balls are reviewed for legality in regard to no balls, every ball should be reviewed. Can't be done - impracticale, so don't review any for no balls. Keep the review simply to the issue whether it was out or not.

Antony says: Some would even argue that the third umpire CAN realistically check every ball. It only takes about 10 seconds to check, and then he can just radio down to the field umpire.

1528: Weather update: It's still raining in Brisbane, unfortunately. We've got confirmation the South Africans have headed back to their hotel, although the Aussies are still holding out hope. They even went out for a wander on the field.

1519: jim wheeler of Brisbane says: I agree with the roof, just seems every time there is an international game in Brisbane it just rains, even the state games last year and the onedayers, im sick of rain spoiling the games.

Antony says: I would say cricket grounds are generally too big to have a roof, but then again Etihad Stadium in Melbourne has one, and they've played cricket there ...

1513: cricket fan who hates the rain of brisbane: When is it going to stop raining. Hardly rained in months and as soon as cricket comes it pours down. Typical Brisbane weather.

Antony says: They've got mean-spirited clouds up in Queensland.

1504: Sam of Brissy is back for more on the DRS: 2.4cm of the ball is pitching in line. A stump is 3.5cm in diameter. So using simple maths if that ball continues in a dead straight line from where it pitched (which it wasn't. It was going for middle) it cleans up 70% of off stump. If that's not out, I don't know what is. You can't disagree with the maths. As far as I know (correct me if I'm wrong) the zone for pitching inside the line is the left edge of off stump to the right edge of leg stump. It doesn't take a lot to dislodge the bails. Agree to disagree but as far as I'm concerned (and the laws of cricket are concerned) that's out. If we're going to ignore technology when it shows an incorrect decision because the umpire was "nearly right" then what is the point in having the DRS system?

Antony says: All valid points Sam. I think what the ICC is trying to do is to get the way the DRS is used to mirror the way umpires have adjudicated in the past. In other words, give the benefit of the doubt to the batsman. I agree that it's not a great look when technology tells us that it's out but we have to give it not out, although in some ways that fits best with the spirit - and history - of cricket.

1449: Jack of MEL says: 2 things - Why do they not have in place an extra (emergency day) with every Test match in case of rain? Especially now that Test match series predominantly consist of 3 tests...Why not construct retractable roofs at Test venues? It'll cost money but losing a day of cricket during a test almost always results in draws.

Antony says: A spare day would be nice, but it would be a tough one to get past the ICC. It would totally change the dynamics of a Test match. Not the worst idea though.

1438: jc of sydney says: shame about duminy. good player, would've liked to see him play.

Antony says: I agree, jc. Was looking forward to seeing how his batting has changed since he was so impressive over here back in 2008-2009.

1430: Robbie BIggest Fan says: is Robbie Q going to be a one test wonder?

Antony says: There's a chance he could be if Watson is fit for the second Test. Having said that, if Cowan racks up a couple more failures, then Quiney is probably next in line for the openers' spot as well. It all depends on timing - just ask guys like Brad Hodge and Chris Rogers.

1422: Daniel of Wollongong says: The Lbw decision was technically correct according to the rules. Less than 50% of the ball was impacting in line. BUT. I think the drs rules should change. 50% is way too much, 25% would be far better.

Antony says: Maybe, but it would be a bit unfair on the on-field umpires - they would be made to look wrong when in reality they couldn't be sure of the decision, so had to give it not out.

1413: I wonder if these guys regret their dress-up decision?

1406: And here's another comment on the DRS from Mark Fletcherton, who emailed in: About the DRS decision, Was the umpire saying it wasn't an LBW because it wasn't in line or because he thought he hit it? I think that's what's going on here. The umpire needs to tell the 3rd umpire what he thought as well.

1404: Sam of Brissy: I would like to know why we are taking a backwards step away from technology. An incorrect decision is an incorrect decision. Either trust technology or get rid of it. If hawkeye says it's pitching in line, it's pitching in line. If it says it's hitting the wickets, it's hitting the wickets. All we're doing now is trying to justify a wrong decision and Australia is left wondering why didn't he give it out. And if he gave it out, South Africa are wondering why he gave it? A third of that ball pitched in line yesterday. That correlates to about 2.4cm. That's not minuscule. That's enormous. As Pup said, "Plum." Stop blurring the lines. Either accept technology or get rid of it otherwise we're all left here scratching our heads.

Antony says: I tend to disagree on some of those points, Sam. A third of the ball pitching in line with the stumps is hardly "plum". In almost every umpire's books, that's not out.

1358: Aussie fan says: @rippersportspro comment no. 2, this may be the 1 out of 10 mate. Personally I was hoping for tahir to play and starc to play instead of lyon. But i suppose its too early to justify that call. How lyon bowls tomorrow will probably decide whether he plays in perth or not. 'Tomorrow' because there is gonna be no more play today because of this STUPID rain!

1353: Weather update: it's still raining in Brisbane, and there's plenty more rain forecast for the rest of the day. We've heard unconfirmed reports that the players are back at their hotels.

1349: Mr of a place of Kalgoorlie: Anyone know how many recent tests in Brisbane have been rain affected? Maybe November tests should be played somewhere else!

Antony says: I can't give you an exact there answer mate, but I can tell you that of the last 10 Tests at the Gabba, only two have been draws, and the most recent draw (against England in 2010) wasn't rain affected. Draw was caused by England batting the Aussie bowlers into the ground.

1342: Paul of Tasmania: In regards to the DRS, is it any wonder some people get confused when they have rules of cricket explained to them for the first time? If you expect umpires to be perfect, then you should expect players to be perfect. Then cricket would be a fairly boring game. I can understand the intentions, to get rid of the 'howler', and applaud the moves to benefit the umpires. But I think cricket would be a better game if we reverted back to the old system where you take the good with the bad. For example, over-rates are slow as it is and waiting for a few minutes for a review doesn't help that.

Antony says: Very good points Paul, and I think our special guest this morning, Brett Geeves, would agree with you.

1333: SooperStu of Denmark: Not sure what all the warm and fuzzy hearts are thinking here?!? How long has cricket been played? How long has the rule regarding substitutes been in place? Why is there even a debate about Duminy being replaced? Similarities to Glenn McGrath in 2005 although his was before the test. It's just unfortunate for all concerned, but another stark reminder to players to be more careful at test time - perhaps NOT playing touch rugby? I do disagree with the ICC ruling - another sports board with has-been players making knee jerk decisions in response to the minority.

Antony says: Fair point Stu. Have you found any cricket in Denmark?

1316: Here's a good comment from Simon of Wagga: The problem with replacements is that they could be exploited. What if Nathan Lyon took 7 wickets on the first day, and then South Africa decided to fake an injury to a quicky and bring in Imran Tahir?

Antony says: I tend to agree, Simon. Allowing injury replacements could open up the proverbial Pandora's Box.

1311: bowling man says: why dont we pack up and move to the next test and call it a draw?

Antony says: Even if today is lost to rain, the match is very much still alive, especially for South Africa if they can dismiss Australia cheaply in their first innings.

1259: An interesting question has come in from Jayvee: why oh why do bowlers feel the need to push the no ball boundaries? Surely 20cm back, giving them some room for error, would make sense?

Antony says: Like any professional sport, cricketers known that every inch counts, and I suppose bowling from right on the popping crease means batsmen have a split second less to play their shots. So from a pace bowler's point of view I can see why they push the no-ball boundaries. For spin bowlers, there's no excuse.

1250: LUNCH (SA 2-255, Amla 90*, Kallis 84*) For those that are interested, it's technically lunch on day two. Still no sign of play unfortunately, the rain is steady. I wonder what the players are eating for lunch - what are the odds of the South Africans finding a place in Brisbane that does good biltong? 

1247: Here's another nice pic of Ricky Ponting with a fan at the Gabba. Good to see the players mixing it with the fans.

1238: Rain Sucks of Newtown says: How about this... replace Duminy, as soon as you show me a test card that has 12 batsmen, or a test card with different batsmen on it innings to innings ... while he hasn't batted yet and could technically be subbed without repercussion, Test cricket is like a cycling tour - you cannot simply replace an injured cyclist after the first race. The starter's pistol has blown, the first ball bowled, the team is the team until the end of the match.

1233: Quick score update from the Sheffield Shield game between Tasmania and Queensland at Blundstone Arena: Tasmania were bowled out for just 98 in under two hours! Yesterday's play was cancelled due to a tornado warning in Hobart - looks like some kind of storm struck now!

1225: BlinkyBill of Adelaide says: So he (JP Duminy) was doing a warm down and ruptured his achilles tendon, while he warming down from the bench?! seriously come up with a better excuse! like oh we don't need him to beat Australia.

Antony says: Apparently he was playing touch footy when he did the injury. Maybe there's a story in there about the next code-hopper? Duminy the new Israel Folau perhaps? Or more accurately, the new Jeff Wilson?

1217: OzMongrel of Macclesfield says: Surely we can do the right thing and offer the South Africans a replacement for JP? as long as the player is a reserve batsman, I don't think it would be fair for them to now pick Tahir. Sportsmanship should win out.

Antony says: That does seem fair OzMongrel, although what would happen if an all-rounder got injured? Would you then have to replace him with another all-rounder? What if you didn't have one?

1205: Weather update: There has already been almost 10mm of rain in Brisbane over the past two hours, and unfortunately the forecast for the rest of the day isn't good. Plenty more rain predicted for the rest of the day, and even for Sunday morning.

1200: Australia players Peter Siddle and Ricky Ponting have been signing autographs to keep the fans happy while it rains. Good on them.

1154: There's a fair bit of debate around the JP Duminy injury situation, with some suggesting Australia should allow South Africa to have a full replacement (i.e. someone that can bat and bowl, not just field) given Duminy was yet to play any part in the Test. What do you guys think? If a player hasn't played any part in a match yet, should he be allowed to be replaced?

1147: Fred of basking in Glory says: what is the rule/law with JP Duminy? Can he bat with a runner or did he take the injury into the game so no runner.

Antony says: Technically Duminy could bat with a runner as he definitely didn't take the injury into the game, but I don't think the poor guy can even stand up at the moment - a ruptured achilles is fairly horrendous - so I don't think we'll be seeing him out in the middle. In fact, the South Africans said he's undergoing surgery today and should be on the first plane back to Jo'burg after that.

1140: Apologies to all those that didn't have their questions for Brett Geeves answered. We're hoping to speak to more of your cricketing heroes throughout the summer, so keep those questions up your collective sleeves!

1135: They're made of stern stuff in Queensland ...

1125: Weather update: It's still raining at the Gabba unfortunately. On the plus side, it's given fans the opportunity to mingle with some of the Australia players!

1122: Unfortunately that's all we've got time for in our 'Ask Geeves' segment. Thanks to all the users for sending in their questions, and a HUGE thank you to Mr Brett Geeves for his insightful and entertaining thoughts! A true cricket character.

1120: Rippersportspro of NSW asks:  Looks like Warney's philosophy of having a spinner in all conditions (at least 9 times out of 10) may be right after all. What do you reckon?

Brett Geeves says: It's probably handy to have a spinner up there at the Gabba, particularly given the nature of the wicket. The wicket can flatten out nicely there for batting, and I think a spinner is a good option. Lyon hasn't been that effective, but I would have liked to have seen Clarke bowl himself, he's probably a bit underrated with his off-spin. It could be his back that's the problem. If he actually can bowl more, you can probably get away with four quicks.

1116: Arthur of Caulfield asks: Did you ever bowl to Jacques Kallis? And what do you reckon, second best player ever behind the Don?

Brett Geeves says: Kallis is No.1 in my opinion. If you look at his batting and bowling records in Test and one-day cricket, even his fielding, in terms of a genuine cricket player, Jacques Kallis is the greatest of all time. You can't really compare him to Bradman as Bradman didn't bowl. In terms of all three components of the game, Kallis is number one. I actually played a one-day game against him, and I got him out! James Hopes took the catch on the square leg boundary and said, "I've never caught a ball going so fast". I was probably a bit lucky there.

1112: Just a reminder for those just joining us, it's still raining at the Gabba and we're not sure when play will get underway. We will keep you posted with all the latest updates.

1110: Mike of Surry Hills asks: Did you ever use sledging as a tactic? And how effective do you think it is in the modern game?

Brett Geeves says: I reckon sledging is overrated. It's not all that successful now, you can only go so far within the spirit of cricket. Umpire get a bit antsy if you overstep the mark. At Test level, if you let those things affect your performance, you're probably not going to be there. Having said that, being sledged when batting was something I really enjoyed. I had a couple of verbal stoushes with Justin Langer, because he's the same, any kind of confrontation makes him up for the fight. Being a smart arse, I couldn't help myself a few times, but inevitably he would bat very well. It just doesn't work anymore. Unless you can get into someone's head about things outside of the game, I'm just not sure if it works. If it does work, they wouldn't be playing Test cricket.

1105: Scott of Adelaide asks: What are your thoughts on the "secret dossiers" affair? Do you think it had an impact on how either team played on day one?

Brett Geeves says: I think it was a genuine media beat up. I saw Mickey Arthur posted on Twitter that it was genuine media hype. Obviously someone from the local rag have thrown together their thoughts, or maybe they've spoken to someone that knows about the game. Those sort of things are usually spoken about with just 12 men in the dressing room, so who would have leaked it? I guess the thing about it was that it was fairly realistic - they would have been Australia's plan. I guess whoever put it together would have known a fair bit about South Africa's game plan, but to me It's quite obvious that it wasn't leaked by anyone within the setup. Those technical things are already known by everyone - if Graeme Smith isn't aware of his deficiencies by now, then he shouldn't be playing Test cricket. Everyone's aware of that sort of stuff.

1100: Matt Wood of Newtown asks: Brett, Rob Quiney was talking about how he lost 28kg to play in this Test match. Did this tactic ever occur to you?

Brett Geeves says: For me, the challenge was bowling 30kg over weight! If I was 30kgs less, I would have probably played 100 Tests and 700 wickets would have been a given, but where's the fun in that?

1057: Chin Music of Warilla asks: Hey Brett, who would you be more terrified to face, Quiney or Mike Hussey?

Brett Geeves says: I was having this conversation with former Shield player Tim McDonald. Bobby is quite deceptive, he does actually bowl a heavy ball, he probably bowls around 115-120km/h but hits the bat quite hard. He gets good bounce and quite good shape. Having said that, you'd probably be more fearful to face Hussey, because if you got out to him you'd be kicking yourself!

1052: Daka from NQ asks: The LBW referral that was denied yesterday for marginally pitching outside of the new corridor, was the wrong call. I would bet the only doubt in the umpires mind was whether the ball struck bat or pad first. Everyone could see the ball would have smashed into the stumps so therefore, do you think there is scope for the umpire to tell the man in the box why he didn't give it out?

Brett Geeves says:  The whole DRS is a waste of time. It divides most followers of cricket. For me, there's no place for it in the game. Batsmen make errors, bowlers make errors, and for the umpires to be error free takes away a part of the game. It's starting to reflect in the way that the public perceive it. Yesterday there was a five or six minute delay while we waited for a computer to make a decision, and that takes away the traditions of the game, and I think slowly the public might turn on it.

1047: OK here's the first question for Brett Geeves, and it comes from Tracey of Broome.

Tracy of Broome asks: What's it like being in the dressing rooms watching the rain fall all day? I bet some guys cope with it better than others?

Brett Geeves says: Normally there's a card group. A group of four will go and play blackjack, a couple normally sleep. Everyone else had their headphones on. I was sleeper, Ben Hilfenhaus was into his cards, and was quite good too. George Bailey and Xavier Doherty were sleepers too. James Faulkner came close to getting punched a few times because he just had so much energy! One of my old teammates, Chris Duval got out lbw four straight times - so one day when it was raining someone cut a big hole in his pad and left a note that said:  "your pad's been blown open for the last time!"

1040: Rain update: No word yet as to when play might get underway. We will keep you posted.

1036: Not even the rain can stop us from bringing former Australia and Tasmania all-rounder Brett Geeves to our live blog! Brett is going to be answering your questions from 10.45am (EDT), so fire in your questions now by leaving a comment at the bottom of the page, or send an email to blogs@foxsports.com.au!

1030: Hello and welcome to foxsports.com.au's LIVE and INTERACTIVE coverage of day two of the first Test between Australia and South Africa at the Gabba. I'm Antony Pinshaw, in the chair for another day of high-class cricket - although at the moment the signs aren't too promising, with the covers on the pitch at the moment! Hopefully the rain clears soon!


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Stosur resets goals for 2013

Written By Unknown on Jumat, 09 November 2012 | 14.23

Looking ahead ... Sam Stosur has set new targets for the 2013 season. Source: Mike Stobe / AFP

Despite failing to reach her goals during a lean 2012, Sam Stosur is gunning for more grand slam glory and a world top-three ranking within the next 12 months.

It would mean improving the world No.9's average record in finals or adding another grand slam to her US Open victory in 2011.

"Overall, finishing number nine in the world, it's still pretty good,'' said the 28-year-old Queenslander during a break from her grinding schedule.

"It's not as high as I wanted it to be, that's for sure. But taking a break and reflecting, parts of my game have improved and others can still improve.''

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Stosur, who said a top-three ranking was achievable, wants to especially improve on her poor Australian summer.

This year, she was bundled out of the Brisbane and Sydney Internationals in the second and first rounds respectively.

Stosur then suffered a straight-sets first-round loss at the Australian Open, a tournament where she has only twice progressed beyond the third round.

"The last couple of months, I've lost a lot of really close matches 7-5 in the third (or) 7-6 in the third,'' she said.

"I'm right there. If you win half of those, all of a sudden your year looks a lot better and you've won a couple of tournaments.

"I put far too much pressure on myself in the Aussie summer because I really, really wanted to do well.

"You only get the opportunity to play at home for a few weeks and I probably built it up too big and didn't handle the occasions on court very well at all.''

Stosur won 44 of her 66 matches in 2012 and senses she is still capable of capturing another grand slam title.

"For sure. Now that I've done it once, you have to think 'why can't it happen again?','' she said.

"It was a great two weeks, I played unbelievable tennis and obviously that final (against Serena Williams in New York) was everything you want a grand slam final to be.

"You do it once, you want to believe you can do it again.''

Stosur returned to her former school on the Gold Coast on Friday, where about 600 excited students from Gaven State High at Oxenford formed a guard of honour.

She was able to draw on personal examples while speaking to the crowd about setting goals and achieving them.

Being a foundation student when the school opened in 1995, Stosur's goals were placed in a time capsule which was opened a few years ago.

Her targets included being a professional tennis player by 2010 and playing in a grand slam, travelling the world, being world No.1 (she has been as high as fourth) and playing at the Olympics (which she has done three times).


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Live: AUS v SA, first Test, D1

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So close ... Peter Siddle reacts after dropping Hashim Amla off his own bowling. Source:News Limited

South Africa are well on top after day one of the first Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane.

1st Test - Gabba

9 November 2012 - Day 1, Session 3

South Africa 1st Innings

H. Amla 90 207 6 1 43.48
J. Kallis 84 135 8 1 62.22
M. Hussey 4 0 21 0 5.25

Re-live all the day one action with our live and interactive blog, and don't forget to join us for day two of the first Test from 10.30am (AEDT) Saturday, where we'll be joined from 10.45am by our special guest, former Tasmania and Australia all-rounder Brett Geeves.

Geeves, now a cricket writer and commentator, has played with or against most of the men out there in the first test and is looking forward to hearing your questions on them or the game at hand. Send in your questoins for Brett now by emailing blogs@foxsports.com.au.

Stumps

First ball: 11:00 AM November 9, 2012
Location: Gabba

Match Summary

Australia:
South Africa: 2/255

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Latest comments (all times AEDT)

1810: Tomorrow we will have a very special guest joining us for the start of the blog, with former Tasmania and Australia all-rounder Brett Geeves stopping by from 10.45am (EDT). Send in your questions for our 'Ask Geeves' segment now, by emailing blogs@foxsports.com.au. Until then, this is Antony Pinshaw signing off!

1808: OK folks that will just about do us for day one at the Gabba. Australia received an early boost by grabbing the wicket of South Africa's skipper, but it wasn't long before the class of the Proteas batsmen shone through. Michael Clarke's men will desperately be hoping for an early wicket on day two, otherwise Saturday could be a very long day in the field.

1802: Geoff of Sydney says: Hopefully the Aussie batsmen will take careful note of how straight the SA's Batsmen are playing, no Cut shots too close to the body, there is an excellent lesson for our batsmen when they bat. They are simply ignoring the wide deliveries, will our batsmen have the same discipline??

1800: Bill of Warilla thinks we're being a bit harsh on the Aussies after a tough day in the field: What's this missed chances rubbish. Siddle put down a difficult caught and bowled chance and that has been it as far as chances go.

1759: Colin says: If the proteas go on to bat for the whole day tomorrow. how hard would it be for the Aussies to win the game?

Antony says: Australia would pretty much be playing for a draw in that scenario - they simply wouldn't have enough time to reach South Africa's total, exceed it significantly, and then bowl the Proteas out again (and possibly have to bat again).

1755: STUMPS (SA 2-255, Amla 90*, Kallis 84*). So that's the end of the first day of the first Test here at the Gabba. A rather anti-climactic end there, with both teams just going through the motions in the last few overs as Kallis and Amla just defended against the medium pace of Quiney and Hussey. Overall South Africa are definitely in control, with their two best batsmen at the crease and approaching their centuries. Australia will desperately need an early wicket on day two.

1753: But as soon as Michael Clarke has the new ball in his hand, the umpires are forced to offer the batsmen the light, and they take it. The ruling is that there is too much artificial light, and that will force stumps.

1751: FOUR! Kallis dispatches a ball from Quiney to the mid-wicket boundary, and now it looks like we're going to get the new ball.

1746: FOUR! A loose ball from Hussey, who has returned to the attack, is flicked by Kallis down to the fine leg boundary for four. Looks like we could be getting the new ball here, as we've had 80 overs. Meanwhile, Kallis has raced to 80, just 10 runs behind Amla.

1741: Rob Quiney into the attack for the third time today. Who knew he was such a bowling weapon?

1736: Filomena of Adelaide says: If Australia had of caught/not no balled we have 2 extra wickets for Lyon and Siddle – need to have you fielders back your bowlers up!

Antony says: True, although Siddle dropped the catch off his own bowling, so he couldn't even blame anyone else. Poor bloke.

1731: CLOSE! Kallis drives straight down the pitch and Siddle almost gets a finger on it before it cannons into the stumps at the non-strikers end. Turns out it was not out on two counts, as Amla was back in his crease as well. Meanwhile, Amla is on the dreaded (for Australians at least) 87. Will it prove to be an unlucky number for him?

1729: I AM NEVER WRONG! of Atteridgeville says: SA will only need to bat once and the game should be over by lunch Monday weather permitting. Australia's bowlers are not as good as they think they are, they are being brought up on bowler friendly wickets and have a confidence in their own ability which I am afraid is sadly unfounded. Their ability to get rid of solid batsmen in anything other than the smash and bash form of the game is non existent.

Antony says: I don't think their confidence is entirely unfounded, Mr or Mrs Never Wrong. These are the same guys that completely dominated India's much-vaunted batting line-up a year ago. They haven't bowled that poorly today, although they definitely haven't been at their very best.

1727: The umpires decide the ball is too damaged, and call for a change of balls. The Aussie bowlers might not be too happy about that, it was just starting to move around for them.

1724: CLOSE! Well there's your reverse swing! Pattinson bowls outside off to Amla, Amla let's it go and the ball moves back sharply, only missing off stump by a coat of paint. Look for more reverse swing over the next half hour.

1720: Speaking of missed chances, here's a picture that's sure to displease a fair chunk of our users.

1717: That's drinks. The runs have dried up a little bit for the Proteas, but there's still no sign of a breakthrough for Australia. They'll really be ruing those missed chances. 

1712: Shaun says: Bowling attack (pacers) is all wrong. Siddle and Pattinson tend to leak runs quickly if they are not getting wickets. Starc I don't think would have done much better. They needed a McDonald or even Copeland on this deck.

Antony says: Andrew McDonald sounds far-fetched, but then again he was captain of the Australia A side last week. But surely Starc is at the front of the queue.

1708: The floodlights are on at the Gabba - good things the captains allowed for that before the series began, otherwise we'd probably be off the field for bad light right now.

1658: Well there's the answer to my question about Nathan Lyon - he's into the attack now. Kallis greets him wiht a nice cover drive for three.

1656: A couple of users aren't too impressed with all the complaining about the no-ball review.

Mark Helliwell of Sydney says: Will you people stop whinging! A no ball is a no ball…. What is so hard to understand? If it was Clarke batting and Kallis bowling and Clarke got called back to the crease there wouldn't even be an argument! Stop crying and take some wickets off legititmate bowling!

JACKnLIME of Melb says: Oh stop whinging! If the roles were reversed and someone like Hussey was saved batting with such a decision you would not care at all. Goes both ways.

1654: Bobby Quiney comes back into the attack. One has to wonder when we'll see the spin of Nathan Lyon again.

1652: Amla and Kallis seem to be scoring at will here. They may not be getting lots of boundaries due to the men back on the fence, but the scoreboard is ticking over. Amla is into the 80s now.

1647: Brian of Brisbane says: You reap what you sow CA, and in this circumstance you chose to forego bowlers in rampant form (bird, Faulkner, butterworth, starc, cutting etc), for 'incumbents' who have been in horrible FC form. Prepare for the same thing from the batters, how Quieny and Cowan have done enough to get picked I'll never know.

Antony says: I'm going to have to disagree with you on one point there, Brian. Quiney and Cowan were both picked for their oustanding first class form, just as you say all those bowlers should be. By the by, Cutting isn't exactly in rampant form - he's been injured for much of the past year.

1641: FOUR! Siddle bowlers a short and wide one to Amla, the South African slashes at it and the ball goes racing down to the third man boundary. Might have been caught by a fourth slip, but there hasn't been one of them since the first hour of play.

1637: Meanwhile, the debate over the no-ball review rages on. Here's a sample of the comments from our users ...

CLARKE of gold coast says: if only stupid umpires could call it on the spot instead of going upstairs for no bloody balls this bloke won't be umpiring next game if australia puts a complaint in.

Jimmy D of Perth says: I do not understand this no-ball thing, why cant the umpire call it live? whenever there is a wicket they check it? I think its a joke. It has happened so many times. Call the no-ball live and if not its free game. JOKE.

Charge Forward of Square Leg says: Let me make something clear. If the batting team want to check for a no-ball, they should be made to use one of their reviews. UMPIRES SHOULD NOT GET REVIEWS. Yet again, Aussies shafted by this ridiculous rule where the batting team get a free review.

1632: DROPPED!  Peter Siddle has dropped a golden opportunity off his own bowling! It wasn't an easy catch, but it was one that should have been taken. That was off the batting of Amla by the way - Australia really need to take their chances against these class batsmen.

1627: FOUR, and FIFTY! Kallis brings up his 50, and it's off just 63 deliveries. Who said Kallis batted slowly? That was a nice square drive off the bowling of Pattinson.

1624: Here's an email from David Gale: No excuses for a no-ball, you have 2 metres behind the line that you can bowl from. Unforgivable, Siddle.

Antony says: I wonder how many wickets in the history of Test cricket would have been denied for a no-ball if we always had the ability to review them. Quite a few I'd imagine.

1619: I've got a new answer for Mark Fletcheron's question about reverse swing - a couple of balls in Siddle's last over looked to reverse a bit after they'd passed the bat - they had wicketkeeper Matt Wade lunging low to his left to catch them. The reverse swing could become more pronounced as the day goes on.

1615: Amla plays a lovely drive that perfectly splits the two fielders at cover, although it doesn't quite reach the boundary. Glorious stroke though.

1613: Here's a photo something not many people would have thought they'd see a week ago - Rob Quiney bowling in a Test match.

1608: Well that was a very eventful first over of the third session. There was also a FOUR! in there from Kallis as well. How important will that no-ball prove to be? Pattinson to bowl from the other end now.

Meanwhile, here's a question from Mark Fletcheron:  Any hint of reverse swing? Or any swing?

Antony says: No reverse swing just yet, but Hilfenhaus and even Mike Hussey managed to get the ball to move around in the air a fair bit.

1604: WICKET! No, wait a moment, it's being checked for a no-ball! Siddle looked like he had got the big wicket of Kallis after a loose shot saw Kallis sky one that was caught at mid-off, but the third umpire checked for a no-ball and the replay shows that no part of Siddle's heel was behind the crease. That is a cruel, cruel blow, and Australia will probably be made to pay for that one.

1600: OK we're back for the final session of the first day at the Gabba, and it's Peter Siddle bowling to Jacques Kallis. Kallis gets a two down to fine square leg off the first ball, Siddle catches the edge off the next ball but the ball bounces away harmlessly.

1553: Derek Mathieson of Laidley has sent in an email: Ok Hilfenhaus is everybodys favourite ex bricklayer but I think he is past his best at this level. Don't care that starc has played a lot of 1 day/20-20 cricket recently he is on fire at the moment and would have caused a lot more problems. For the saffas. By the time the Ashes come along I would expect him to be a regular in the run on team

1549: Colin of hong kong says: It seems the run rates picked up a bit since lunch. Are the australians trying to lure them to play some shots or are the south africans playing great?

Antony says: A little from Column A and a little from Column B, Colin. Quite a few of Clarke's plans have been to bowl to the strengths of the batsman and pack the field for their best shot, but so far this hasn't quite paid off. That being said, Amla and Kallis look in very good touch.

1540: TEA. Well that was an interesting way to end the session, and to be fair Quiney bowled quite well. But in general, that was South Africa's session. They lost Peterson for 64, but Kallis and Amla look like they could be out in the middle for some time. Australia's pacemen will need a big last session to swing the momentum back in the home team's favour.

1536: OK, now this is something quite different - Rob Quiney is coming into the attack! He has the grand total of three first-class wickets to his name.

1533: Scott of Geelong says: Ok is it just me or was that a stupid decision to have Hussey and Hilf bowling in tandem, it seems to have released the pressure that we had started to build up and runs are now flowing. Sometimes i wonder what goes through Clarke's head.

Antony says: I tend to agree Scott - in general I'm a fan of Clarke's inventive captaincy but I think they did let Kallis and Amla off the hook there by taking Pattinson and Siddle out of the attack.

1530: FOUR! That's a loose ball down leg side from Hilfenhaus, and Kallis gives it the treatment, flicking it down to fine leg for four. Worrying signs here for Australia - the Proteas have been scoring at about eight runs per over for the last 20 minutes or so.

1528: CLOSE! Nathan Lyon nearly gets Amla's wicket with two consecutive balls. First, Amla goes for a cut shot and it just goes past the outside edge. The very next ball Amla goes for the same shot, and this time it catches the edge and goes in between wicketkeeper and first slip. Very nearly another big scalp for the spinner.

1523: Hilfenhaus comes back into the attack, ending Hussey's short spell. Michael Clarke is rotating bowlers like it's going out of fashion here.

1521: SIX! Lyon drops marginally short and Kallis hoiks the ball over mid-wicket for six. He wasn't remotely bothered by the two fielders on the leg-side boundary – that was always going to be a maximum.

1517: Josh of Melbourne says: Not wanting to bash the Aussie Attack or team but i might have to. All the talk about our (unproved) ferocious (wayward) Young (inexperienced) pace attack was always just hype in the same way Mundine talks up his fights. Playing against a clearly better team in the proteas we were always going to struggle. They have an exceptional batting line up and the best bowling attack in the world bay far!

Antony says: There's no denying South Africa's attack is the best in the world, but Australia will have a lot of very handy options up their sleeves in the coming years.

1515: CLOSE! Kallis goes for the big cover drive off Hussey, he gets a thick edge and it goes just wide of the man at gully. Nearly a wicket there for Mr Cricket!

1513: FOUR! Not it's Amla getting in on the act, crunching a cover drive to the boundary. And that brings up the 50 for Hashim Amla. He looks set for a big one here. That prompts a fielding change from Clarke, with just one slip in place and a sweeper on the off side. That sweeper is into play straight away, with Dave Warner stopping Amla from picking up another boundary off the last ball of the over.   

1510: FOUR! Kallis hits another boundary, purposely putting his cut shot over gully.

1507: Here's a surprise - Mike Hussey is going to roll the arm over. Clarke has taken quite a liking to using Hussey as a partnership-breaker, but if he can get Kallis or Amla out that would be a seriously impressive achievement.

1503: Ben Hilfenhaus takes the ball, handing Peter Siddle a rest. The Hilf has been quite consistent so far today, but hasn't got a wicket yet. Will that change in this spell?

1501: Rippersportspro of NSW says: Looks like the dossier is going to be the new "Paul the Octopus" at this rate.

Antony says: As a side note, Paul the Octopus would have made quite the cricketer - I reckon he would have bowled a good googly.

1459: FOUR! Amla releases the pressure valve with a glorious cover drive off Pattinson. It's all in the timing for Amla - he never really looks like he hits the ball too hard, just politely guides the ball.

1456: Another good delivery beats the outside edge, this time it's from Siddle. Australia are hungry for a wicket.

1449: CLOSE! Pattinson bowls a nice ball to Amla, the South African goes for the big cover drive and the ball just sneaks past the inside edge. Aussie bowlers look to be getting some momentum here.

1446: Geoff of Bali is back for more: When are the ICC going to have the Nuts to change the Review Rules, so that any single delivery can only be given Out or Not Out. I simply cannot understand the logic where exactly the same delivery can be Out and Not Out, surely, it is one or the other, it defies any sensible though pattern.

Antony says: I think Michael Clarke would agree with you. We've been seeing a lot of this today ...

1440: That's drinks at the Gabba. Some disciplined bowling from Australia brought about that wicket, and they'll be looking for more of the same from their bowlers in the second half of this session.

In the meantime, let's check in with Mark in Bris-Vegas, who sent this message just seconds before the wicket of Petersen...

Mark from Bris-Vegas says: OK, 1/110 ... they are looking too comfortable. I will start that rain dance I promised earlier.

1437: FOUR! Kallis gets off the mark in imperious fashion, playing a lovely cover drive off the spin of Lyon.

1434: Although that was a big wicket for Australia, it does bring Jacques Kallis to the wicket - meaning the world's no.2 and no.4 ranked batsmen are at the crease.

1430: WICKET! (Petersen 64, c Hussey b Lyon, SA 2-119) Wow, out of nowhere Petersen needlessly gets himself out. He double-steps a ball from Lyon but doesn't get hold of it properly and it goes down the throat of Mike Hussey at a deep-ish mid on. Huge wicket for Australia there.

1426: FOUR! Yet another masterful pull shot there from Petersen. Siddle dropped short there but not short enough, and it barely got above Petersen's waist.

1422: Lyon tried going around the wicket for his last over, seemed to throw Amla off briefly but still didn't trouble the classy batsman too much.

1418: Scott of Geelong says:  Anyone else got that 500+ feeling. I can smell an innings defeat ahead if this continues, aussie bowlers are too similar to each other and these two guys are making it look pretty easy.

1413: Just to confirm, if umpire Asad Rauf had given that out initially, then that decision would have stood. Australia now have no reviews left, with South Africa just one wicket down. Nathan Lyon is into the attack now.

1410: FOUR! And Petersen rubs salt into the wound by playing a nice cut shot for four off the next ball.

1409: APPEAL! Hilfenhaus pitches it up and it looks like it may have hit Peterseon on the toe on the full. The umpire says not out but Michael Clarke makes a gutsy call again and calls for the review. Even though Hawkeye seems to show that the ball struck in line and was going on to hit the stumps, it's close enough for the decision to revert back to 'Umpire's Call'. That was very, very close, and the crowd isn't happy.

1404: FIFTY! Petersen whips a full ball off his pads and runs two to bring up his 50. It's been a very well compiled innings from the opener, he's given very few chances and has punished the bad balls.

1402: Another maiden from Hilfenhaus, which included an uppishly-played drive from Amla that falls just short of mid-off.

1359: Geoff of Bali is back with a weather report from Bali: Antony, weathers great, hotter than Brisbane, but reception is not as good !! Haven't seen or heard any good reason why Starc isn't playing, I can only think of reasons why he should!

Antony says: Hotter than Brisbane? You must be sweltering! To be fair to the selectors, most, if not all of Starc's recent good form has been in the shorter forms of the game. All the top bowlers admit it's different bowling with a while ball than it is with a red one, so perhaps the selectors want to see a bit more consistency from Starc in first class cricket - he did show a tendency to be a bit loose when he played in the Tests last summer.

1352: FOUR! Oh, that was close! Hilfenhaus induces an outside edge from Amla, but his soft hands mean the ball drops short of Clarke and Ponting in the slips, and in fact eludes the fielders and goes all the way to the boundary.

1351: Meanwhile, more people are getting stuck in to poor old Matt Wade, who really couldn't have been expected to take that catch down leg side!

BRING BACK A PROPER KEEPER of NSW says: Matthew Wade dropping the ball again. My god, what do people see in him?

1349: A couple of good overs from Hilfenhaus and Pattinson to start the session, stuck with good line and length and were rewarded with just one run being scored. They need to build the pressure now.

1342: The second session is underway, with Ben Hilfenhaus bowling to Alviro Petersen. Australia would dearly love an early breakthrough here.

1335: Check out how long the lines are for a meat pie at the Gabba!

Just kidding, those were the queues to get into the ground. Good to see the retro one-day jersey getting a run from one fan - any idea what year that shirt is from?

1329: Joe Blanchett says: We need a breakthrough here to get the Proteas on the back foot. When they get going they are almost impossible to stop.

Cam of Brisbane says: First victory of the summer for the "secret dossier!" What odds the dossier being the leading wicket taker for the series?

Antony says: Good one Cam!

1322: Russ of Perth says: Starting to get that sinking feeling.... Are we gonna be able to break through that order at all this summer? Or is the pitch just a bit more of a road than the media suggested? Come on Aussie!!!

Antony says: Australia have bowled quite well and have been creative in their bowling plans, but it's not easy to knock over a a batsman like Amla. Also, the pitch looks to not be quite as lively as all the pre-match hype suggested.

DANIEL of wollongong says: South Africa look comfortable now. Australia Need an all rounder. Marsh would fit the bill

Antony says: Interesting thought Daniel. Mitch Marsh is a bit too raw at the moment, but definitely has Test match potential. Would be hard to play both him and Watson in the same side though, unless Watson gives up on his bowling.

1311: For all true cricket lovers out there, make sure you visit our Cricket Match Centre to get all the crucial stats and check out the awesome pitch map!

1308: Stick with us through the lunch break as we tackle some of the big issues facing both sides.

Summer of Warner says: I know he gets knocked I am one that does ... But Warner is the only Aussie bat under 30 and he is only 25 ... Let's hope he has a breakout summer and is more consistent ... He has time on his side to learn how to move his feet to the ball specially against spin!

Antony says: I agree that Warner does need to move his feet a bit more, but then again if it works for Sehwag, why can't it work for Warner?

1306: Here's a little momento for Australian fans - Graeme Smith on his way back to the pavillion.

1303: LUNCH. Well, that first session seemed to fly by. South Africa got off to a good enough start against some creative bowling plans from Australia, but the wicket of Graeme Smith was huge. Amla looked a bit shaky early on, but worked his way into the game and now he and Petersen both look well set at the crease. Australia will need to bowl very well to dismiss this pair after lunch.

1258: James Pattinson to bowl the last over before lunch now. FOUR! And Pattinson's first ball get dispatched to the boundary by a beautiful cut shot from Petersen.

1250: OK, just 10 minutes remaining in the opening session. Can Australia get a breakthrough before lunch? Would be a big psychological blow for the Proteas if they lost Petersen or Amla now.

1248: FOUR! Glorious stroke from Petersen, rocking onto the back foot and pulling Siddle for four in front of square. Positively Ponting-esque.

1247: Geoff of Bali says : DROPPED WADE, how many times will we have to pout up with hearing that this Season, he can't keep Wickets, he is untidy and very poor footwork.

Antony says: Easy Geoff, that's very harsh on Wade. Not even Ian Healy would have been able to catch that one! Having said that, I agree that he does need to improve his keeping if he's going to hold onto the spot long term. On a side note, how is the weather in Bali?

1243: And now Pattinson comes in to bowl in place of Hilfenhaus. Michael Clarke doing some serious bowler rotation here.

1241: FOUR! Another rather loose cut shot from Amla, it went in the air but wasn't near the point or gully fielders and runs away to the boundary. Amla has quietly moved along to 27.

1239: Siddle returns to the attack, in place of Lyon. The Victorian immediately makes an impact by inducing a rather loose uppercut shot from Amla, and follows that up with a ball that cuts back viciously and goes over the stumps.

1236: Sneaky Student of Mandurah says: Hey guys, just wondering if they have started sledging Amla yet? Ha Ha Ha

Antony says: Haven't heard any sledging thus far, although professional cricketers have mastered the art of saying things at just the right level, and just the right time, so the stump microphones can't hear them.

1232: SIX! Amla breaks the shackles with a beautiful six off Lyon, with the South African waltzing down the pitch and hitting it over the long on fence. Amla would have got a four off the next ball, but his pull shot cannoned into the short leg fieldsman.

1229: CLOSE! Was that a dropped catch? Petersen tries to turn a ball from Lyon round the corner, it catches the edge, then clips Wade's gloves, and goes just over Warner's outstretched hands at leg slip. Very nearly a wicket there.

1225: Wow! It's all happening here as Australia bring in a leg slip, and Petersen responds by pulling out the reverse sweep to point for two! Just to add to the weirdness, Petersen loses his shoe while halfway down the pitch and Lyon returns it to him.

1222: Mike - Cricket better than schoolwork. of Port Mac! says: Judging on the wicket, do you think that Lyon will be useful? What will he be aiming to do? Using flight, speed or turn?

Antony says: Shane Warne was always a big believer that a bit of bounce in a pitch actually helped him take wickets, and Lyon seemed to prove that when he took seven wickets at the Gabba against New Zealand last year. He's obviously not a huge turner of the ball, but the way he flights the ball is his strength.

1220: Another bowling change here as Hilfenhaus returns to the attack.

1217: APPEAL! A half-hearted appeal from Lyon there but on second inspection it was probably a bit closer than it looked. Amla is walking way across his stumps to Lyon, and the ball actually hit him on the pad outside off stump despite the fact he was trying to whip it to fine leg.

1214: Nathan Lyon comes into the attack. Let's see if he can be effective with his off-spin in the first session. Brave move by Michael Clarke.

1211: Amla looks a lot more settled now. Australia won't want to let him to get too comfortable, otherwise they might be seeing a lot more of him.

1209: Rippersportspro of NSW says: Looks like Australia's dossier has worked a trick so far. An absolute beauty from Pattinson to trap Smith LBW.

Antony says: Yes, that's a good point - I wonder if Smith was thinking about the "secret dossier" when he was walking back to the sheds?

1203: And it's drinks at the Gabba, with South Africa sitting at 1-36. While we wait for play to resume, here's a nice pic of Fox Sports' own Allan Border (apparently he was also a decent cricketer in his day), presenting Rob Quiney with his baggy green for his debut. Touching.

1202: amin rajwani of Pune indis says: If quiney clicks & Ricky fails then will he be picked for 2nd test ? If watson is fit to play?

Antony says: They definitely won't be dropping Ponting in this series - Punter is the top scorer in the Shield at the moment! However, if Quiney clicks, Cowan fails and Watson is fit for the next Test, then Quiney could move up to open instead of Cowan.

1159: APPEAL! Another lbw appeal from Pattinson, this time bowling to Amla, the entire slips cordon goes up, but this time there's no review as replays show the ball was going a fraction too high. Amla definitely doesn't look too comfortable though.

1154: Mark of Bris-Vegas has sent in an email: Hate to say it fella, but we will get rain during this test match. Hopefully only overnight, but you just about lock it in (my gammy knee is playing up). Anyway, Quiney, don't know much about him, what are your thoughts?

Antony says: Could be time for you and your gammy knee to start doing a rain dance! Rob Quiney was the player of the year in the Shield last year, and is a steady lefty that can be expansive when he wants to. Picked on form, and weight of runs, rather than anything else. Has a good head on his shoulders as well.

1151: Interesting tactic from Pattinson as he tries a couple of balls from around the wicket to Amla, before reverting back to over the wicket.

1148: WICKET! (Smith 10, lbw Pattinson, SA 1/29) Well there you have it, Clarke's risky approach to his reviews has paid off, and the Proteas skipper is on his way to the pavillion. Inspired bowling change as well. In comes one of the best batsmen in the world at the moment, Hashim Amla.

1147: APPEAL! Pattinson hits Smith on the pad with his first ball, it looks close, but the umpire says not out. REVIEW! Clarke takes a massive gamble by using his only review, but it's paid off as the replays show the ball pitched in line and was going to hit the stumps!

1146: Another bowling change now, as Pattinson replaces Hilfenhaus.

1143: FOUR! Siddle pitches up on the stumps and Petersen whips it away for four beautifully through mid-wicket. Siddle responds with a nice ball that moves away slightly and beats Petersen all ends up.

1133: Peter Siddle comes into the attack in place of James Pattinson. Michael Clarke is trying to make things happen.

1131: CLOSE! Clever bowling from Hilfenhaus, as he changes his grip to get the ball to move away from Smith rather than swing in, and the ball just goes past the edge of the bat.

1130: Adam of Sydney says: what is your opinion on quiney? and why is the aussie lack of a vc such a big deal? what do they do anyway?

Antony says: G'day Adam. When Michael Clarke is on the field, not much. But if Clarke were to get injured, or for whatever reason couldn't play, then it's a bit odd that no one would know who the captain would be. Re: Quiney, he's proven himself at Shield level, and there's no reason why he can't take that form into the Test arena, especially given how assured he looked against the Proteas at the SCG last week.

1128: FOUR! Pattinson drops short and Peterson rocks onto the back foot and plays a beautiful pull shot that races to the square leg boundary.

1123: Australia have a clear plan to target Smith's body, with a square leg, deep square leg and deep fine leg all in position. But so far just about everything that has been on Smith's hip, he's pushed away for an effortless single.

1118: The debate continues to rage over whether Australia made the right decision by leaving out Mitchell Starc...

Charge Forward of Square says: Leaving Starc out could prove to be a costly mistake. Why has Peter Siddle all of a sudden become indispensable? In recent times, the guy has done very little bowling and in the last ashes series had a series ending average in the high 30s despite taking a hat trick? Hilfenhaus averaged 60 in that same series.

Antony says: Agree Starc is in form, but the Ashes was a LONG time ago - Hilfenhaus and Siddle have improved greatly since then.

Dave of Sydney says: glad hilf was picked, he was outstanding last summer!! economical and took wickets everywhere!! siddle and pattinson can spray it everywhere at times as displayed by punter in the shield match just 2 weeks ago!!!

1114: APPEAL! Hilfenhaus bowls down leg, there's a noise, and the Aussies appeal. Smith seems confident the ball hit his pad or foot, but Australia have gone for the referral! Clarke seems very confident! But the replays show the ball missed the bat. Australia only have one referral left for the rest of the innings.

1111: A bit of controversy here as Smith pulls out at the last minute, just as Hilfenhaus was about to bowl. The Aussies were not very pleased.

1108: Apologies for my earlier mispelling of Alviro Petersen. Don't think I'll be making an appearance in the Fox Sports Spelling Bee championships any time soon.

1107: James Pattinson takes the new ball from the other end. Smith gets a single off the first ball again - the South African skipper looks to be in good touch. Petersen not so much - just got squared up by Pattinson but the edge evaded the slips cordon and he gets two.

1105: Kyle Faz of QLD says: Finishing Uni last year was the worst mistake ever. Now I'm working instead of watching :(

Antony says: Stick with us Kyle, we'll get you through!

Bemused of Perth says: Think we should have had the guts to go with a four prong pace attack? Playing a spinner on the GABBA to try and beat the proteas would be like trying to kill an elephant with a ping pong ball!

Antony says: That's quite a creative analogy!

1104: A good first over from Hilfenhaus. Smith got off the mark easily on the leg side, but Pietersen looked a bit uncomfortable against the Hilf's natural swing.

1058: The fans are in, the anthems have been sung, and we're just about ready for action! Ben Hilfenhaus to bowl the first over to Graeme Smith.

1052: Scott of Geelong says: How can they leave Starc out, he has been the standout Austalian bowler recently, Hilfenhaus just isnt intimidating enough, Smith and co will feast on his wide half volleys!!!!! South Africa to be 0/130 at lunch.

Antony says: That's a bold prediction Scott! But I do take your point that Starc has been in some pretty good form (albeit with the white ball), while The Hilf hasn't exactly been tearing the 'Haus' down ... pardon the pun.

1049: Just a reminder that as well as leaving a comment at the bottom of the page, you can also have your say by emailing blogs@foxsports.com.au

1043: Ziggy (meant to be doing school work) of Brisbane is pleased the Australian selectors took a spinner into the first Test...

"The Australian selectors would make an incredible mistake if they left Nathon Lyon out of this Test. Australia's quicks can do the damage early on, but even on the Gabba's wicket, you still need to chuck in a spinner to losen up the batters who have their eye in and get them out," Ziggy says.

Antony says: I think history tells us spinners do eventually come into play on the fourth and fifth days of a Gabba Test (if we make it that far). South Africa have taken a bit of a risk. Now go and do your algebra!

1039: Confirmation of the teams:

Australia: Warner, Cowan, Quiney, Ponting, Clarke, Hussey, Wade, Siddle, Pattinson, Lyon, Hilfenhaus

South Africa: Smith, Pietersen, Amla, Kallis, de Villiers, Rudolph, Duminy, Philander, Morkel, Steyn, Kleinveldt

1032: SOUTH AFRICA HAVE WON THE TOSS AND WILL BAT FIRST. There's also some surprising team news, with the Proteas picking Rory Kleinveldt instead of spinner Imran Tahir, meaning they'll have four pacemen. A scary prospect! For Australia, Mitchell Starc is the man that misses out as Hilfenhaus and Lyon get the nod.

1030: Hello and welcome to foxsports.com.au's LIVE and INTERACTIVE coverage of the first Test between Australia and South Africa at the Gabba in Brisbane. Antony Pinshaw here at Fox Sports Blog HQ, looking forward to a fascinating day's cricket between the world's No.1 and No.3 Test sides. Will either team go with four pacemen, or play it safe and pick a spinner? How much of an impact will the "secret dossier" affair have on the game? So many questions, and we want your answers! Let us know what you think by leaving a comment at the bottom of the page. 


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Cassidy forgiven after Oaks win

Written By Unknown on Kamis, 08 November 2012 | 14.23

Forgiven ... (L-R) jockey Jim Cassidy, owner John Singleton, trainer Clarry Connors. Source: Julian Smith / AAP

A cheque for $600,000 helped restore an old friendship at Flemington on Thursday.

But it didn't prevent colourful owner John Singleton from telling it like it is.

Singleton privately paid out on jockey Jim Cassidy after his ride on Dear Demi in last Saturday's Wakeful Stakes.

After the filly won the VRC Oaks (2500m) with Cassidy in the saddle five days later, Singleton made his feelings public.

"I've never seen Jimmy ride so bad as he did in the Wakeful,'' Singleton said.

"He cost us the race, that's for sure.

"I actually sacked him."

But when replacement jockey Nash Rawiller was later suspended, Singleton reinstated Cassidy on the condition that he lift his game.

"I told him he had to ride her like he rode Kiwi when they won the Melbourne Cup," Singleton said.

"Told him to get out wide.''

The Oaks is the second major race this spring in which Singleton's relationship with those he pays to win races for him has been tested.

Three weeks ago things became strained between he and trainer Gai Waterhouse when she notoriously chose barrier 11 for Singleton's star mare More Joyous in the Cox Plate.

When More Joyous finished 11th in the race, Singleton snubbed Waterhouse.

The once enduring bond remains under review.

With Cassidy, though, forgiveness was as swift as Dear Demi's finishing burst in the three-year-old classic that multiplied her already substantial value.

"I forgive ya," Singleton said as he embraced the jockey.

Chances are the jockey's name was also put back on the guest list for Singleton's 70th birthday celebration on Friday.


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Kewell 'not interested' in Glory

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Speculation ... several A-League clubs seem to be chasing Kewell's signature. Source: Tracey Nearmy / AAP

Harry Kewell is "not interested" in an A-League contract at the moment and will not be meeting with Perth Glory during his visit to the west, he said on Thursday.

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Kewell was stopped by reporters on his arrival to Perth airport, amid rumours that he was there to discuss a move, either permanent or for a guest stint, to the Glory.

But the Socceroos great poured cold water on the speculation, saying he was simply in Perth "for a golf tournament".

"I don't know why everyone's speculating (about a meeting with Perth Glory), I'm here to play a golf tournament," Kewell said.

"The reason why I've left Australia is for family reasons. If my family reasons were all sorted I'd be still playing for (Melbourne) Victory.

"At this present time I'm still with my family, so that's the main reason (I'm not playing in the A-League). I haven't decided on anything so I don't know why everyone's getting so excited."

Kewell met Glory owner Tony Sage at the Melbourne Cup on Tuesday and the prospect of a future deal has since been floated by Sage, who said Kewell would be meeting with Glory coach Ian Ferguson and chief executive Paul Kelly while he was in town.

But that meeting is now in doubt after Kewell said he wasn't interested.

When asked if he would attend the meeting, Kewell replied: "No, no. Like I said, I'm here for a golf tournament. I'd still be playing for the Victory if it wasn't for family reasons."

"I did say (to Sage), I said I'm not interested at the moment until I know what I'm doing with my family."

Since walking out on the second year of his contract with the Victory, Kewell has tried without success to secure a contract in England, prompting the possibility of retirement.

But the player recently voted Australia's best of all-time still has ambitions to play for the Socceroos in a third World Cup in 2014 and is eager to keep his options open once he is again in a position to focus on football.

"I'm very keen," Kewell said, of adding to his already decorated international career.

"Like I said before, if this situation with my family didn't arise, I'd be still playing my football now for Melbourne Victory. So, unfortunately things happen in life and you have to deal with them. Once I've dealt with that I'll get back on the pitch."

Meanwhile, Adelaide United are the latest A-League club to be linked to Kewell after Reds chairman Greg Griffin confirmed a marquee player on a similar level to Alessandro Del Piero and Emile Heskey was worth looking at.

Griffin on Wednesday said United were considering signing a marquee player next season.

Griffin said a big-name player was possibly worth the investment after Sydney FC's Alessandro Del Piero and Newcastle Jets Emile Heskey have attracted record crowds, merchandise sales, sponsorships and record TV ratings since the start of the season.

Additional reporting: Val Migliaccio, adelaidenow


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Langer for Warriors?

Written By Unknown on Rabu, 07 November 2012 | 14.23

Heading West? ... Australia batting coach Justin Langer is in contention for the WACA job. Source: AAP

Former Test opener Justin Langer is expected to leave his post as Australia's batting coach to take charge of the Western Warriors, following the resignation of Lachlan Stevens.

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The 33-year-old Stevens will have his last match at the helm for WA in Wednesday's one-day cup match against Victoria at the MCG.

As PerthNow reported Langer would take the job within days, his former teammate and Test batsman Ricky Ponting said: "I'd love to have him around here a bit more. He'd be a great loss for the Australian team but a great gain for WA."

The WACA said Stevens recently advised them he would not seek reappointment at the end of the season, but has since decided he should go now.

Stevens told Fox Sports that he did not know who would replace him but that Langer would do a good job if chosen.

Stevens joined the WACA in 2010 as coach Mickey Arthur's assistant after filling a similar role with Queensland, and was promoted to the top job in November 2011 when Arthur became the Australian team coach.

After being well-placed, the WA team lost their last two games to miss the Sheffield Shield final last season and this season they have lost their first three Shield games.

While the Scorchers qualified for the ICC Champions League by reaching last season's Big Bash final, they had a disappointing and controversial campaign in South Africa.

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"The timing of this announcement is not ideal during a season, but it was only fair for the WACA to begin the search for a permanent replacement since my future intentions have become clear,'' said Stevens in a WACA statement.

"Whilst the start of this season has been extremely challenging for all involved with the Warriors and Scorchers, I believe the past couple of seasons have been very rewarding and feel confident that we have laid foundations for a bright future.

"A fresh coaching structure and new programs will ensure a greater depth of state squad going forward.

"It was humbling to be given the chance to coach the Warriors and Scorchers and I thank the WACA as well as the players and staff for their support during my time here, especially in the past 12 months as head coach.

"I was fortunate to come to Perth two-and-a-half years ago to assist Mickey Arthur, and I could not have asked for a better mentor.''


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Penrith sack player for assault conviction

PENRITH Panthers has sacked under 20s rugby league player Jake Galvin after he was convicted of assaulting a 77-year-old man, the NRL club says.

Galvin and former Wests Tigers junior Isaac Hekenui were found guilty of assaulting pizza delivery driver Arthur Taylor in Southport District Court on the Gold Coast earlier this week.

The court heard that in July last year Taylor was attacked in his car in Hollywell by the former Keebra Park High schoolmates.

The duo stole four pizzas, which they ate while watching the third game of last year's State Of Origin series at a friend's house.

Galvin, 18, and Hekenui, 19, pleaded guilty to robbery in company with personal violence.

Galvin told police that Hekenui had told him he had no money for food and wanted "to find somebody to rob".

Taylor was knocked unconscious and suffered a heart attack on the way to hospital as a result of the vicious attack.

Hekenui also pleaded guilty to two separate robberies and received three five-year prison sentences, which are to be served concurrently.

Galvin was handed a 12-month suspended sentence.

The incident occurred before Galvin joined the Panthers this year on a two-season deal.

"On the basis of new information now available to the club, a decision has been made to terminate Jake's contract," a statement from Penrith said.

"Jake's behaviour and work ethic since arriving at the Panthers had been nothing short of exemplary.

"The Panthers wish Jake all the best with his future endeavours."


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Green Moon grabs Cup glory

Written By Unknown on Selasa, 06 November 2012 | 14.23

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Green Moon ... Brett Prebble guides the six-year-old home at Flemington. Source: JULIAN SMITH / AAP

Green Moon has won the $6.2m Melbourne Cup with Brett Prebble on board in a race run under the shadow of a betting scandal.

1 - Green Moon

2 - Fiorente

3 - Jakkalberry

4 - Kelinni

Super TAB Dividends:

Green Moon - $22.50 win $7.40 place

Fiorente - $11.80 place

Jakkalberry - $16 place

Quinella: $506.90

Exacta: $765.30

Trifecta: $45941.60

First four: $969406.60

The win gave Melbourne owner-breeder Lloyd Williams his fourth Melbourne Cup and was a win for an Australian-trained horse in a field crowded with European-based stayers.

The Hong Kong-based Prebble said after the race it was his "life dream" to win the Melbourne Cup and now felt as though he had now won racing's pinnacle on the former English stayer.

Shocking a field of foreign stars, Green Moon, trained by Robert Hickmott, won the 3200m classic by a length from Fiorente and Jakkalberry, with Kelinni fourth.

Green Moon started at $20. Fiorente started at $31 and was the third Cup runner-up for trainer Gai Waterhouse. The unfancied Jakkalberry started at $81.

Dunaden ($7) finished 14th after travelling near the back of the field for most of the journey. Americain ($8) was 11th. Mount Athos ($7.50) finished hard into 5th place.

Green Moon atoned for his failure in last month's Cox Plate, where he started as favourite and finished seventh.

"I was very confident they weren't going to pick him up - he ran all the way through to the wire," Prebble said.

Williams, who won previous Cups with Just A Dash (1981), What A Nuisance (1985) and Efficient (2007) was not on course to see his horse win.

"He puts a lot into racing and he's a very good supporter of mine," Prebble said of Tuesday's run.

News_Module: FS Racing SEM Melbourne Cup Blog

"He's never here. He's going to be at home enjoying it. It's lovely."

Williams's son Nick was ecstatic after accepting the trophy from Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.

"We put a lot of money in and a heck of a lot of effort so to get this result today is terrific," he said.

"God bless everyone who wrote him off."

The Cup was a race run under the shadow of a betting scandal, with Australia's top jockey Damien Oliver, on board the hightly-favoured Americain, reportedly admitting to racing authorities last month that he bet $10,000 on a rival horse in a race two years ago.

Three jockeys, including Oliver and Jim Cassidy, rode in the Cup despite being under investigation by racing authorties.

Racing Victoria Limited chief executive Rob Hines would not comment on the ongoing affair but said he expected the investigation to be completed soon.

Victorian racing minister Denis Napthine said in a statement that Racing Victoria operated separately from the government and it would be inappropriate for him to comment.

Opposition racing spokesman Martin Pakula has accused the government of "prevarication bordering on negligence" by refusing to grant racing authorities the power to suspend jockeys.

For admirers of European horses, it was the best Melbourne Cup field ever assembled, with 18 of the 24 starters bred in Europe. Only two - Niwot and Ethiopia - were bred in Australia and only Ethiopia, which placed last, was bred from Australian horses.

Last year's winner, Dunaden went into the race carrying a modern weight record 59kg, and it proved to big an impost for the Caulfield Cup winner.

The $175,000 Cup was presented by the Duchess of Cornwall.


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Prince a charm for Williams

LLOYD Williams must be wishing Prince Charles comes to every Melbourne Cup.

The former casino owner and prolific horse owner won his fourth Cup when Green Moon gave jockey Brett Prebble the ride of his life at Flemington on Tuesday to upstage the international-laden field and keep the trophy in Australia.

He upstaged most punters too, winning at $22.50 from Irish stayers Fiorente and Jakkalberry while the French pair of pre-race favourites, Dunaden and Americain, finished well back.

The last time Charles was at Flemington, he presented Williams with his second Melbourne Cup when What A Nuisance won in 1985.

This time he let wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, perform the honours while Williams' son Nick stepped up for his father who watched the race from his rambling training property at Mt Macedon to Melbourne's north.

Nick also collected the Cup in 2007 when Efficient won, while Lloyd was on hand for his first Melbourne Cup win with Just A Dash in 1981.

The forecast storm held off in time for Camilla to present the Cup after the crowd of about 100,000 had looked anxiously above when a clap of thunder rang out as the trainers addressed the jockeys in the mounting yard.

But Green Moon shone under the grey skies as Prebble took the lead at the 200m mark to win by a length from Fiorente which gave trainer Gai Waterhouse her third Melbourne Cup runner-up.

As Hollywood stars like Mischa Barton and Rose Byrne joined a host of Australian celebrities watching on from the Birdcage marquees, European stayer Jakkalberry finished third, just over two lengths from the winner.

Bred in Ireland, Green Moon can be considered an honorary Australian, a resident of Mt Macedon since Williams bought him 18 months ago with a plan to win this Melbourne Cup.

"He's a great strategist in everything he does," Nick said of his father.

"It's another Melbourne Cup triumph for Team Williams and I'm just ecstatic.

"We put a lot of money in and a heck of a lot of effort so to get this result today is terrific."

Williams the junior pointed out four Melbourne Cups is not as simple as it might sound.

"He's (Lloyd) had close to 75-80 runners in the Melbourne Cup, he's won four. It's not easy."

Hong Kong based Victorian Prebble described his passage on Green Moon as "the ride of my life" and the result "my life dream".

He also paid tribute to Lloyd Williams.

"That's for you boss. Thank you for your support, I can't thank you enough," Prebble said.

"It's the pinnacle of racing in Australia. I've had some great highs here and you never think you can get any higher until you get to the pinnacle."

Meanwhile, the boss sat back at Mt Macedon, pondering another $3.6 million winner's cheque. He might put some of it toward an airfare for the prince next year.


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Monster plunge on Dunaden

Written By Unknown on Senin, 05 November 2012 | 14.23

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Dunaden ... is firming in the betting after taking plenty of money on Monday. Source: Michael Klein / News Limited

Dunaden was the subject of a monster betting plunge at Monday's Call of the Card to win back-to-back Melbourne Cups.

Bookmakers offered $8 and were knocked off their stands, including one bet of $50,000 placed with Eskander's Betstar.

It was a different story though with 2010 Cup winner Americain, who drifted to $7 and attracted little Interest.

Bookmaker Tom Waterhouse took plenty of bets on last year's runner-up, Red Cadeaux, at $12.

Despite the lack of interest in Americain, owner Gerry Ryan remains upbeat about his chances tomorrow.

"He was unlucky when he carried 58kg and ran wide before finishing fourth last year," Ryan said. "Plus Damien (Oliver) is in form. All we want is a bit of rain."

Americain takes on Dunaden 4.5kg better off and meets runner-up Red Cadeaux 2kg more favourable than last year.

"I picked barrier 12 when he won (in 2010), so hopefully that is a bit of an omen," Ryan said.


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Look who's back, Petero to return

He's back ... Petero Civoniceva will play for Redcliffe Dolphins in Queensland. Source: Mark Calleja / News Limited

Queensland rugby league legend Petero Civoniceva, who retired from the NRL after 307 games and 33 Origin clashes, will play on next season, returning to Redcliffe Dolphins 19 years after leaving the club.

He played in the Dolphins' grand final winning Colts side in 1994 before leaving for a stellar career with the Brisbane Broncos and Penrith. He was feted on grand final day this year as a retiring NRL star but was expected to play for Fiji at the 2013 World Cup.

"I grew up on these hills, playing touch footy on the field with other kids and getting booted off as the first grade side ran out," Civoniceva told the club website. "They are great memories."

In 1994, Petero made two appearances in first grade for the Dolphins, including a 42-12 win over Valleys at Dolphin Oval.

A couple of his teammates that day include current Dolphins CEO Grant Cleal, Dolphins legend Troy Lindsay and his future State of Origin front row partner, Danny Nutley.

"I always thought or hoped Petero would finish his career here" Lindsay said. "I just wish I was young enough to be playing with him!"

The Dolphins said man long-time Dolphins fans will compare the return of Civoniceva to that of another famous old-boy, Arthur Beetson in 1981.

Both played 15 years of first grade football, both began their senior careers in the centres before moving into the back-row before ultimately packing down at prop, and both won premierships with the Dolphins prior to achieving bigger things in the game.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More
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