Diberdayakan oleh Blogger.

Popular Posts Today

We have lost our aura: Paartalu

Written By Unknown on Sabtu, 08 Desember 2012 | 14.23

Aura ... Erik Paartalu says perceptions of the stuttering Brisbane Roar have changed. Source: Darren England / News Limited

They might have regained their fight but two-time A-League champions Brisbane admit they have lost their aura ahead of Sunday's clash with Western Sydney Wanderers at Parramatta Stadium.

Once the competition yardstick, the Roar are battling to break into the top six after notching just their second win in seven weeks last round - a 1-0 victory against fourth-placed Newcastle Jets.

If that was not sobering enough, Brisbane are reeling from the fact that they must qualify for the elite 2013 Asian Champions League despite dominating the local league for years.

Brisbane boast an impressive resume - but Roar leadership group member Erik Paartalu admitted it counted for little as they looked to claw their way back into championship contention.

"The perception has obviously completely changed. We are talked about in a different light, shall we say," Paartalu told AAP.

"But that's the way football is.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash Player

"Any code has teams enjoying success and not so great times.

"But the thing to remember is that you can draw strength from the success you have had in the past in times of need.

"In this dressing room, we know we can be the best team in this country.

"We are definitely drawing from that at the moment.''

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash Player

Revenge will be another motivation after the Roar made history for all the wrong reasons in round four.

The Wanderers not only notched their first goal but also maiden victory against a shocked Roar at Suncorp Stadium on October 27 - not that Paartalu needed to be reminded.

"It was a tough one to take. It was probably our worst performance at home.

"We approached the game too lightly.

"For whatever reason, we didn't want it as much as they did - it's as simple as that.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash Player

"That really hurt us and we have a point to prove against them.''

Not that Paartalu meant any disrespect to the A-League new boys.

Despite scoring just five goals in nine rounds, Western Sydney (3-1-5 win-draw-loss) are knocking on the top-six door.

"We knew they were going to be a good side. They haven't scored too many goals but that doesn't mean there are not goals in them," Paartalu said.

"They are the dark horses at the moment.

"We will definitely not be taking them lightly."


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Injury rules Herrick out of BBL

Injury ... Fast bowler Jayde Herrick is hopeful of lining up for the Melbourne Renegades. Source: Colleen Petch / News Limited

Melbourne Renegades will be without key paceman Jayde Herrick after scans showed his foot injury was worse than expected.

Herrick wore a moon boot to Monday's team launch and was hopeful scans would show only minor damage but he conceded his campaign was over on Saturday.

He will be replaced by 26-year-old Jake Haberfield, a right-arm quick from South Australia.

Melbourne Renegades coach Simon Helmot said on Saturday the team had explored all avenues before ruling Herrick out of the competition based on medical advice.

While Helmot said it was a blow to lose Herrick, he was confident in the ability of Haberfield to make an impact for the Renegades.

"He had scans after (Wednesday's one-day cup game against South Australia at the MCG) and there was some serious swelling at the top of his foot and maybe some bone bruising,'' Helmot said.

Helmot said he would look to Victorian quick and ex-England Test player Darren Pattinson to spearhead the pace attack, with Sri Lankan great Muttiah Muralitharan leading the spin-bowling stocks.

"Darren is an accomplished new-ball bowler in this format. He has really shown his stuff in England in the last few seasons in T20 cricket,'' Helmot said.

"Now that he has become an Australian local player, we grabbed him straight away.

"Last season we had a strong pace attack. It's still important to have pace but we just need more versatility.

"We have some good spinning options with Murali and Aaron O'Brien.''

The Renegades opened their BBL|02 campaign with a convincing win over cross-town rivals Melbourne Stars on Friday night.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Roosters let Masoe join Panthers

Written By Unknown on Jumat, 07 Desember 2012 | 14.23

Club switch ... Mose Masoe is taking up a deal with Penrith Panthers. Source: Mark Evans / News Limited

Sydney Roosters have released prop Mose Masoe from the final year of his NRL contract to join Penrith.

Despite re-signing earlier this year until the end of 2013, the 125kg New Zealander was cut loose by the Roosters but will have to get the green light from the NRL before officially linking up with the Ivan Cleary-coached Panthers.

Masoe joined the Roosters in 2010 and played 46 games for the tri-colours.

The hulking 23-year-old forward fell out of favour with then coach Brian Smith with six rounds remaining and dropped back to help feeder club Newtown win the NSW Cup premiership.

"Mose has a lot to offer the NRL and the club's decision to grant him a release was based on what we consider in the best interest of his long-term playing future," Sydney Roosters chief operating officer Brian Canavan said in a statement.

Penrith have been the most active club in terms of recruitment for next season as they attempt to rebuild after a dismal 2012.

They finished second-last on the NRL ladder and lost classy fullback Michael Gordon and then club legend and captain Luke Lewis to Cronulla.

And earlier this week, halfback Harry Siejka signed a two-year deal with the Warriors.

But to fill the void, the Panthers have added 14 players to their squad including Lewis Brown from the Warriors, Sika Manu (Storm), James Segeyaro (Cowboys), Wes Naiqama (Knights), Dean Whare (Sea Eagles).

Second-rower Manu played his junior football at the same Wellington club in New Zealand where Masoe started as a youngster - the Randwick Kingfishers.

Masoe will find it tough to earn a starting berth in the Penrith pack that includes New Zealand international prop Sam McKendry and NSW Origin front-rower Tim Grant.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Cooper seals $800k ARU deal

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash Player

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash Player

Return ... Quade Cooper is set to sign a new contract with the ARU. Source: Gregg Porteous / News Limited

Rather than call Robbie Deans, outspoken playmaker Quade Cooper wants to improve the odds of a Wallabies recall by letting his rugby do the talking.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash Player

Cooper is back in the national team mix, ending six months of strained negotiations with the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) by signing a two-year deal, reportedly worth $800,000 a season.

Sealing an ARU deal was difficult, especially with Cooper preparing for a February 8 professional boxing debut and receiving a French rugby offer that would have made him one of the world's highest-paid players.

The Queensland playmaker's days under Deans appeared numbered when he described the Wallabies' culture as "toxic", resulting in a $40,000 fine and a downgraded ARU offer that was later renegotiated.

However, Cooper said regaining top form - not offering an olive branch to Deans - was his priority.

Asked how he could improve relations with Deans, Cooper said: "It is not something I have to go out and improve.

"I have a job to do. His job is to coach and get the best out of the team.

"Hopefully, the better I play for Queensland, the more opportunities I get there (Wallabies)."

Asked if he would like to play under Deans again, Cooper said: "Of course - he's the coach.

"If I get the opportunity to play for Australia again, we will go about it like any other player and coach."

Cooper did not believe his hefty fine would place him at the back of the queue.

"It's a fine. The performance is what matters - that beats everything else," he said.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash Player

The five-eighth committed to a new three-year deal with the Reds in June but that was dependent on signing with the ARU.

Talks with the ARU were on the brink of collapse late last month when he was offered a new incentive-based deal.

But Cooper said he never seriously contemplated walking away from Australian rugby after seeing the Reds' hierarchy fight hard to renegotiate his ARU deal.

"I look forward to playing my best on the paddock and show them (Reds) how much their support means to me," he said.

He also looked forward to combining one day for the Wallabies with new NSW Waratahs signing, the sport-hopping Israel Folau.

"To have a player of his stature in rugby union is only good for the game. I am sure he will go well," he said.

"And I think his aerial skills will be superior to most rugby players at the moment."

The prospect of a fully fit and focused Cooper plus the 100kg powderkeg of potential that is Folau are handsome presents under the Christmas tree for Wallabies coach Robbie Deans.

Intriguingly, it has not just been tweaks to financial elements of the contract but Cooper feeling "more wanted" that got the deal in the bank, after he felt isolated from the Wallabies camp he criticised mid-season.

"It wasn't just the financial piece but getting the emotional piece right," Queensland Rugby Union chief executive Jim Carmichael said on Thursday.

"The ARU has shown great support to bring this to a point where we have the right decision for the game, one of rugby's real talents and Quade's future.

"Where there might not have been trust and understanding a few months ago, there has been positive dialogue and everyone working towards the same thing.

"I know Quade is in a really good place with what he wants to achieve for the Wallabies, as well as Queensland."


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Folau can have SBW impact: Gibson

Written By Unknown on Kamis, 06 Desember 2012 | 14.23

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash Player

First day ... Folau took part in the Waratahs' field session on Thursday. Source:News Limited

Sonny Bill Williams's indefensible offload changed rugby union and Israel Folau's vertical leap has the potential to do the same, New South Wales Waratahs assistant coach Daryl Gibson says.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash Player

Former All Blacks centre Gibson, who helped mould the Crusaders' potent backline when Williams made his Super Rugby debut, watched Folau train for the first time with NSW on Thursday.

It was a low-key hit-out, with Folau laying a couple of slick passes and making a handful of linebreaks during drills, but Gibson was already thinking big about the impact a bulked-up Folau can have on the 15-man game.

"Sonny brought to union some skills he had from league and he's changed our game," Gibson said.

"Israel, particularly with his aerial ability, could potentially do the same.

"It's not a skill we're particular adept at. He spent two years catching and kicking (in the AFL) and we'd be foolish not to utilise that skill."

Gibson, part of the Crusaders' foundation squad in 1996 and involved in rugby ever since, said he'd never seen anything like Folau's ability to leap and snaffle the high ball.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash Player

"And what I haven't seen in union a lot is the ability to catch the ball above your head, and that's a skill he's going to bring to our game," Gibson said.

"Absolutely (it could change the game) and what it will change is teams' ability to defend us.

"If the backfield is worried about his aerial game, then it obviously opens up opportunities elsewhere on the field.

"We're going to have to exploit that."

Folau spoke of his desire to take on the All Blacks on Tuesday, and Gibson revealed the 23-year-old's switch to union had already created waves in his rugby-mad homeland.

"I got a number of texts from people back in New Zealand who were excited to see him go," Gibson said.

"A few (Super Rugby) coaches and obviously players (sent messages). It's neat that they're aware we've signed someone of his calibre."

Folau, who coach Michael Cheika says will play in the back three, will initially be shielded from contact work while he learns the intricacies of the ruck.

The code-hopper's other major challenge will be to re-design his physique after shedding seven kilograms to prepare for the endurance required in AFL.

But Cheika said Folau will do a lot of running without the ball for the 'Tahs and his body transformation won't be overly severe.

"Maybe somewhere in the middle (of his playing weights in AFL and NRL). I can't be sure, there's no exact science to this," Cheika said.

"I don't know if it's about upper chest or lower body. Most players know the weight they feel comfortable at. You got to go with your gut feel.

"It (Folau's preparation for Super Rugby) is not really about that. It's about footy."


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Kyle Stanley out for season

Gone again ... Kyle Stanley will miss the 2013 season with a major knee injury. Source: Mark Evans / News Limited

St George Illawarra have confirmed young playmaker Kyle Stanley will miss the 2013 NRL season to undergo surgery to repair knee ligament damage.

The highly-rated 21-year-old, who tore his anterior cruciate ligament during the Dragons' round-19 clash with Cronulla last season, was expected to be fit for the start of the new campaign.

However, in a freak accident away from the training ground last month, Stanley slipped on a wet floor and reinjured his surgically-repaired knee.

It was hoped he wouldn't need to go under the knife, but the Dragons confirmed on Thursday that specialists have decided Stanley will require a two-stage operation to repair the ligament for a second time.

"It's not the best news but I understand that this decision is overall in my best interests as a player," said Stanley.

"I have to remain positive and know that once the surgery is completed, I can commence the road back to recovery properly with solid rehabilitation.

"The entire team are in the middle of pre-season now and are all working hard ahead of the new year ahead.

"They've all wished me well and, while I wish I was out there with them training, they know I'll be supporting them whatever way I can."

Dragons' coach Steve Price said he was disappointed by the news but has praised Stanley for the manner in which he's handled the setback.

"Everyone at the club is saddened by this news and feel for what Kyle has to go through but we will all be by his side along the way," said Price.

"Kyle is an exciting young player who has really come of age this past year and he has handled these recent obstacles with positivity and maturity."


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

CA says no way to Warne return

Written By Unknown on Rabu, 05 Desember 2012 | 14.23

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash Player

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash Player

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash Player

I said what? ... Warnie pours cold water on rumours of an Ashes comeback. Source:News Limited

English batsmen, breathe a sigh of relief. Shane Warne won't be coming out of retirement for next year's Ashes series.

And even if he was willing to Cricket Australia wouldn't have a bar of it anyway.

The legendary leg-spinner took to Twitter on Wednesday morning to clarify comments he made surrounding a possible comeback for the 2013 Ashes.

It was reported that the 43-year-old said he would consider answering an Ashes SOS from Australia skipper Michael Clarke, if the call ever came from his good mate.

But according to Warne's personal Twitter account, his comments were taken out of context.

"It was a hypothetical question re if Michael Clarke asked me... Read my quotes "I'm not asking Michael to ask me" Hope I didn't disappoint!" Warne tweeted.

"Ps although my future wife @ElizabethHurley loves seeing me dressed up in my cricket whites !!!!!!! Xxx".


It's showtime – Will Warnie star in your Fantasy Big Bash team? Register now for your shot at $10,000 in cash prizes.


And if there was any confusion, CA went a step further, pointing out that Warne would have to make a full comeback to first class cricket and be selected out of the Sheffield Shield competition - basically extinguishing any hope of the genius considering a return.

"Shane Warne making himself available for Test selection is a tantalising thought but, ultimately, this would mean Shane making himself available to play Bupa Sheffield Shield cricket, which is the place where Australian Test cricketers are selected from," a CA spokesman said.

Warne, Australia's record wicket-taker, has long acknowledged a return to first-class cricket would not fit with his hectic trans-continental schedule of family, business and charity commitments.

Warne, who is preparing for the Big Bash League opener on Friday night, set tongues wagging after telling reporters on Tuesday that he was bowling as well as at any time since retiring from Test cricket in 2007, and had "absolutely no doubt" he could bowl successfully at Test level again.

"For me it's not a matter of whether I could do it or not - I have absolutely no doubt if I wanted to commit to try to make a comeback and go through grade cricket, first-class cricket and try to get selected ... that I could do it," Warne said.

Additional reporting: AAP


Catch every match of the KFC Twenty20 Big Bash League Live and Exclusive, and in High Definition, on Fox Sports. Get Foxtel.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Anderson's nine years of controversy

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash Player

Gone ... Adrian Anderson resigns as AFL's football operations manager. Source: Tim Carrafa / News Limited

Since Adrian Anderson was appointed as AFL football operations manager in 2003, tanking, subs, drugs, failed sirens and an extra man on the field were just some of the issues to come across his desk.

Formerly a keen Hawthorn supporter, the then 31-year-old was hand picked by AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou in November of that year before officially beginning his role at the start of 2004.

Anderson came to the AFL not long after becoming a partner at law firm Corrs Chambers Westgarth and was appointed as part of an internal restructure at the AFL.

Demetriou knew Anderson from the AFL Players Association, since he was an adviser to the players' body during Demetriou's time there.

During his time as operations manager Anderson has been responsible for the day-to-day running of the AFL.

That has included overlooking salary caps, changes to the draft such as the father-son rule and the pre-listing of players for expansion clubs, taking care of on and off-field disciplinary issues and protecting the integrity of the game.

Anderson was a major playmaker in the introduction of the AFL's illicit drugs policy and, the issue that has perhaps caused most controversy among the AFL fraternity in recent times, he helped oversee a revamp of the AFL's tribunal system.

In 2011 Anderson helped negotiated a new AFL players Collective Bargaining Agreement with the AFLPA and just this year paved the way for Free Agency in the AFL.

ANDERSON'S BUMPY RIDE AT THE AFL

2004 - Anderson and AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou trade barbs with league reporting officer Rick Lewis after Jonathan Brown escapes a rough play charge on a technicality. The big Lion's charge was dismissed because the relevant incident occurred after play had stopped.

2005 - Anderson completes a major review of the AFL Tribunal, implementing major reforms including the establishment of the Match Review Panel. The system introduced a table of offences with set penalties, allowing players to accept sanctions without appearing before the tribunal.

Feb 2005
- First test of MRP when Port Adelaide's Byron Picket is banned for six weeks after becoming first player referred directly to tribunal under new system. Port complains pre-hearing that briefings by Anderson were conflicting and confusing.

Involved in changing rules those at centre-square ruck contests in a bid to reduce the number of PCL knee injuries.

2006 - Interviews umpires involved in "siren gate" controversy in Tasmania. League eventually awards match and four premiership points to Fremantle.

In conjunction with the AFL Players' Association, Anderson helps develop and implement the AFL's controversial three-strikes illicit drugs policy.

2007 -
Another rule change, penalising players for front-on high contact, introduced to protect players from serious head and neck injuries.

2008 - 19th man controversy - Sydney has an extra man on the field for 30sec in the final term in drawn game against Northelbourne. Anderson says league considered awarding game to the Roos but accepted Sydney's explanation it was an honest mistake.

Helps establish the AFL's first integrity department - responsible for monitoring betting and investigating the off-field behaviour of players and officials as well as breaches of the AFL's total player payment and draft rules.

2010 -
Manages the introduction of player rules for the establishment of the Gold Coast Suns and Greater Western Sydney Giants in the AFL competition. The rules allow the clubs to sign and trade pre-listed players and to poach uncontracted stars such as Gary Ablett and Tom Scully.

2011 - Introduces substitute rule, which is now generally regarded as success despite initial resistance from players with some suggesting a "sit down" protest.

2012 - Anderson demands and receives an apology from Chris Judd's manager Paul Connors after Connors suggested Anderson interfered in the "chicken wing" case by instructing MRP chairman Mark Fraser to refer it directly to the tribunal.

2012 -
AFL says Anderson will take charge of tanking investigation after Carlton's Brock McLean says on Fox Footy's On the Couch Melbourne wasn't playing to win in 2009. Investigation is continuing.

2012 -
Anderson confirms AFL is pulling the plug on Chris Judd's third-party Visy deal.

2012 - Defends two-and-two subs rule trialled in the NAB Cup, despite criticism from players including Magpie Darren Jolly who calls it "bloody stupid". In October Anderson's Laws of the Game committee recommends a cap on interchange rotations but it is rejected by the AFL.

Dec 2012 -
Anderson announces he has resigned from the AFL.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Ultimate Fantasy Big Bash XII

Written By Unknown on Selasa, 04 Desember 2012 | 14.23

Popular players ... will Brad Hogg, Chris Gayle or Luke Wright make your Fantasy team? Source: News Limited

As the kick off to BBL|02 draws nearer, so too does the deadline to pick your Fantasy Big Bash League team.

With $10,000 of cash prizes up for grabs and, perhaps more importantly, bragging rights over your rights at stake, choosing the right players from the start is crucial.

But never fear! We've compiled an Ultimate Fantasy Big Bash XII, based on the most popular players selected by foxsports.com.au users.

Affording everyone in the Ultimate XII might be a stretch too far, but if you're able to squeeze some of these players into your squad, you might just get a leg-up on your rivals.

As of Monday 4 December, these are the five batsmen, two all-rounders, wicketkeeper and four bowlers selected most by foxsports.com.au users. 


Which of these players will you squeeze into your Fantasy Big Bash squad? Be sure to register your team before the first round deadline of 6.45pm (EDT) on Friday, December 7!


Batsmen
Aaron Finch ($95,000)
Aaron Finch earned a shock call-up to Australia's T20 side early in 2011, and his good form with Melbourne Renegades last season saw him have another shot at international level against India earlier this year. The stocky Victorian is the most popular batsman in Fantasy Big Bash, with 39.5 per cent of users thinking him well worth is price tag.

Nic Maddinson ($75,000)
Sydney Sixers youngster Nic Maddinson is a surprise inclusion in the Ultimate XII, selected by 36.9 per cent of Fantasy players. He's undoubtedly good value at $75K, and if the word around cricket circles is to be believed, he could have plenty of runs around the corner.

Chris Gayle ($120,000)
Forking out $120K for Chris Gayle may hit you hard in the hip pocket, but it seems many Fantasy players - 36.4 per cent of them, to be precise - couldn't resist the lure of the coolest man in cricket. Gayle's dynamic batting and even his handy off-spin helped him rack up a monster 872 Fantasy points while playing with Sydney Thunder last season, and there's no reason why the big West Indies star can't repeat that effort this time around.

David Hussey ($110,000)
David Hussey scored the second-most Fantasy points in last year's Big Bash, making his price of $110K this season seem like good value. With 34.4 per cent of teams selecting him, it's clear to see why. Together with Luke Wright, Hussey is Melbourne Stars' most consistent batsman and is as close to a guaranteed points-scorer as you're likely to get.

Rob Quiney ($80,000)
It's been a big month for Rob Quiney. The Melbourne Stars batsman made his Test debut against South Africa, but after failing to make an impact, made way for Shane Watson's return to the side. Quiney remains in the frame to replace Ricky Ponting in the Test team, and therefore may miss some of the Big Bash tournament, but that hasn't stopped 34.3 per cent of Fantasy teams acquiring his services.

Who missed the cut?
There's no room in our Ultimate XII for last season's top points-scorer Travis Birt ($110K), South African veteran Herschelle Gibbs, or Hobart Hurricanes' Englishman Owais Shah ($90K).


Catch every match of the KFC Twenty20 Big Bash League Live and Exclusive, and in High Definition, on Fox Sports. Get Foxtel.


All-rounders
Luke Wright ($85,000)
Luke Wright somehow managed to fly under the radar last season, despite earning an impressive 739 Fantasy points through his smart batting and handy bowling for Melbourne Stars. Wright looks unlikely to fly under the radar this time around, as evidenced by the 35 per cent of Fantasy teams that have snapped him up for his bargain price of 85K.

Johan Botha ($85,000)
The South African all-rounder has certainly made his mark in South Australia, captaining the state side to their first Sheffield Shield win in two years earlier this season. But it's in the shorter form of the game that Botha shines, as was shown when he picked up 439 Fantasy points last season, and the Adelaide Strikers skipper was a popular selection this season, with 27.1 per cent of teams choosing him.

Who missed the cut?
Three of the most dynamic all-rounders in Australia - James Faulkner ($85K), Glenn Maxwell ($90K), and Dan Christian ($100K) - aren't in our Ultimate XII, but would still make good value purchases.

Wicketkeeper
Brad Haddin ($90,000)
Fantasy Big Bash players look to have gone for the familiar over the unknown, with 25.4 per cent selecting Sydney Sixers veteran Brad Haddin. With Test cricket seemingly out of the frame for the time being, Haddin has been in good form in both the Sheffield Shield and Ryobi Cup, and is sure to score more than the 138 points he picked up last season.

Who missed the cut?
Perth Scorchers youngster Tom Triffit ($75K) picked up 20 per cent of the vote and could be a bit of a smokie, while Melbourne Renegades 'keeper Peter Nevill also just missed the cut for our Ultimate XII. 

Bowlers
Brad Hogg ($80,000)
Brad Hogg picked up a cult following last year, with his infectious enthusiasm and accurate wrist spin helping the Scorchers reach the BBL final. Somehow Hogg's price remains at the bargain-basement level of $80K, helping him become the most popular player in Fantasy Big Bash, with 50.7 per cent of teams picking him.

Scott Coyte ($65,000)
Another who represents good value is Sydney Thunders paceman Scott Coyte, who has been selected by 36.3 per cent of teams. His 539 Fantasy points last season helped erase some memories of him getting smashed for 32 runs off one over by Chris Gayle back in the old Big Bash competition in 2010-2011.

Mitchell Starc ($85,000)
Mitchell Starc's inclusion in the Test squad hasn't stopped a sizeable chunk of Fantasy teams picking him in their team - 22 per cent in fact. If his form in the T20 Champions League is anything to go by, Starc would still be worth buying even if he misses a couple of games.

Ben Laughlin ($70,000)
Ben Laughlin suits Hobart Hurricanes - he's understated, goes about his business with minimal fuss, but boy does he get the business done. His clever fast-mediums helped him pick up 435 Fantasy points last season, which has seen him selected by 21.3 per cent of teams this year.

Who missed out?
Two of domestic cricket's rising stars, Nathan Coulter-Nile ($80K) and Alister McDermott ($75K), just missed the cut, as did outstanding Perth Scorchers spinner Michael Beer ($75K).


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Your team's BBL signings

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash Player

Kieron Pollard ... West Indies star is returning to Adelaide. Source: Aijaz Rahi / AP

Which players have your KFC T20 Big Bash League team signed for the 2012-2013 season?

2012-2013 KFC T20 BIG BASH LEAGUE SQUADS

Adelaide Strikers
Johan Botha, Theo Doropoulos, Callum Ferguson, Jon Holland, Phillip Hughes, Michael Klinger, Nathan Lyon, Andrew McDonald, Michael Neser, Kieron Pollard, Gary Putland, Nathan Reardon, Kane Richardson, Saeed Ajmal, James Smith, Shaun Tait

Brisbane Heat
Joe Burns, Ben Cutting, Daniel Christian, Peter Forrest, Cameron Gannon, Ryan Harris, Chris Hartley, Nathan Hauritz, James Hopes, Mitchell Johnson, Chris Lynn, Alister McDermott, Luke Pomersbach, Kemar Roach, Dale Steyn, Shane Watson, Daniel Vettori

Hobart Hurricanes
George Bailey, Travis Birt, Aiden Blizzard, Doug Bollinger, Xavier Doherty, Ben Dunk, Michael Hogan, Jason Krejza, Ben Laughlin, Tim Paine, Ricky Ponting, Owais Shah, Timm van der Gugten, Jonathan Wells

Melbourne Renegades
Meyrick Buchanan, Tom Cooper, Brendan Drew, Aaron Finch, Daniel Harris, Jayde Herrick, Michael Hill, James Muirhead, Muttiah Muralitharan, Peter Nevill, Aaron O'Brien, Darren Pattinson, Nathan Rimmington, Ben Rohrer, Will Sheridan, Marlon Samuels

Melbourne Stars
Shane Warne, Jackson Bird, James Faulkner, Pete Handscomb, John Hastings, Brad Hodge, David Hussey, Alex Keath, Glenn Maxwell, Clint McKay, James Pattinson, Rob Quiney, Matthew Wade, Cameron White, Luke Wright, Lasith Malinga

Perth Scorchers
Ashton Agar, Tim Armstrong, Michael Beer, Jason Behrendorff, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Patrick Cummins, Ben Edmondson, Herschelle Gibbs, Brad Hogg, Michael Hussey, Simon Katich, Mitchell Marsh, Shaun Marsh, Joe Mennie, Albie Morkel, Marcus North, Tom Triffitt, Adam Voges

Sydney Sixers
Brad Haddin, Josh Hazlewood, Moises Henriques, Josh Lalor, Brett Lee, Michael Lumb, Nic Maddinson, Jeevan Mendis, Ian Moran, Sunil Narine, Stephen O'Keefe, Kurtis Patterson, Daniel Smith, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Dominic Thornely, David Warner

Sydney Thunder
Sean Abbott, Cameron Borgas, Ryan Carters, Michael Clarke, Mark Cosgrove, Adam Coyte, Scott Coyte, Luke Doran, Jason Floros, Chris Gayle, Rhett Lockyear, Azhar Mahmood, Dirk Nannes, Gurinder Sandhu, Chris Tremain, Usman Khawaja, Chris Rogers, Martin Guptill, Matt Prior, Adam Zampa

** Shahid Afridi and Umar Akmal were originally signed by Sydney Thunder and Sydney Sixers respectively but have since been withdrawn from the tournament. **


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Mourning Chiefs end losing streak

Written By Unknown on Senin, 03 Desember 2012 | 14.23

Inspiration ... Kansas City Chiefs players kneel and pray before their win against Carolina Panthers. Source: AFP

A sombre Kansas City Chiefs took inspiration from tragedy to end an eight-game losing streak, a day after a player committed suicide and killed his girlfriend.

Playing in the shadow of tragedy the Chiefs beat the Carolina Panthers 27-21, in the wake of an incident in which police said Kansas linebacker Jovan Belcher shot and killed the 22-year old mother of his infant daughter.

He then drove to the team's Arrowhead Stadium and turned a gun on himself before fatally pulling the trigger in front of a coach and other staff.

The murder-suicide was part of a traumatic weekend in the NFL, with the Cleveland Browns confirming that groundskeeper Eric Eudker had been found dead on Saturday -- reportedly after hanging himself in a team maintenance shed.

Belcher's actions left the league reeling ahead of Sunday's match (Monday morning AEST) for an already struggling Chiefs team, which had won just one other game this season.

"It's been an incredibly difficult 24 hours for our family and the entire organisation," Chiefs chief executive Clark Hunt told the Kansas City Star before the game.

"We have so many guys on the team and on the coaching staff who are really hurting."

Hunt said he left the decision on whether to play up to players and head coach Romeo Crennel, who was among the Chiefs staff present when Belcher, 25, arrived on Saturday shortly after shooting his girlfriend Kasandra Perkins.

As police descended on Arrowhead Stadium in response to an emergency call, Belcher shot himself, Kansas City police spokesman Darin Snapp said.

Crennel, general manager Scott Pioli and another Chiefs staff member had gone outside to talk to Belcher.

"Belcher thanked them for being a Chief, and that's when he walked away," Snapp said.

"When he was 30 or 40 feet away, Belcher killed himself with one gunshot to his head.

"I spent the evening last night at the team hotel with them," Hunt told ESPN before the game.

"I wanted to be there with the team, with the coaches, to let them know I love them and support them and know what they're going through, and particularly the guys who were present in the parking lot when Jovan took his life. I know this has to be incredibly difficult."

The couple left a recently-born daughter. Police said she was in the care of Belcher's mother who, when visiting from out of town, saw the first shooting at a house near the stadium and called authorities.

The Chiefs opted not to memorialise Belcher specifically, but held a moment of silence before the game in recognition of victims of domestic violence.

Crennel was on the sideline, guiding the team to victory and Pioli was also at the game.

Belcher, who played high school football on Long Island, New York, had been with the Chiefs for four years. He joined them as an undrafted free agent out of university and worked his way into a starting position.

Police said Belcher and Perkins argued before he shot her, but the violence stunned those who knew the player.

"Something went crazy wrong, and we'll probably never know what it is," Belcher's agent Joe Linta was quoted as saying on SI.com.

For help in suicide prevention, call Lifeline on 131114 or the SANE Helpline, 1800 18 7263.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Live blog: AUS v SA, T3, D4

Fired up ... Dale Steyn and co. ripped through Australia's fragile batting order on day four. Source: Daniel Wilkins / News Limited

South Africa are cruising towards victory and the retention of the world No.1 ranking, as Australia lose their seventh wicket on day four at the WACA Ground.

The day began disastrously for Australia when David Warner was dismissed in the first over. Shane Watson followed Warner to the dressing room after making 25.

He looked solid until he was squared up and nicking through to Graeme Smith. The man of the moment, Ricky Ponting, then joined Ed Cowan at the crease and the former Aussie captain looked solid until he went for a cut shot off Robin Peterson and was caught at slip just before lunch.

Cowan brought up his half-century after the interval but was then dismissed by Steyn in the same over for 53.

Clarke and Michael Hussey set about the rescue mission and the pair were looking good until the Aussie skipper advanced on Peterson and was stumped after the ball turned out of the rough.

Hussey and Wade soon joined Clarke back in the pavilion, the pair falling to Steyn and Peterson respectively.

Join the conversation by sending a question or comment to blogs@foxsports.com.au or by leaving a comment at the bottom of the page.

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


3rd Test - WACA Ground

30 November 2012 - Day 4, Session 2

Australia 2nd Innings

J. Hastings 2 14 0 0 14.29
M. Johnson 3 2 0 0 150
R. Peterson 14 1 67 3 4.79

Latest comments (all times EDT):

1818: The Usual Suspect of State of Despair says: I hope the selectors at the end of this tour put their collectives hands up and accept responsibility for losing us the series. The old boys club has never been stronger in Australia and never been more embarrassing. I don't think the long term future for Australian cricket is looking all that wonderful under the current administration. Maybe its already time for the next inquiry.

1815: ZSM of Brisbane says: Way too aggressive. 5 of the 7 wickets to fall have been the batsman trying to force the pace. Only Warner and Watson can say they got genuinely good balls. Really disappointing. I'd have thought a much better strategy would have been to try and wear them down. Oh well, expecting them to bat 2 plus days and/or make 600 plus runs was always going to be an impossible task.

1810: SB says: That's tea, folks. Australia are 7-204. It's looking very much like the Proteas are going to wrap this one up tonight. The Australia batsman have played some pretty ordinary shots it must be said. What changes would you be making for the first Test against Sri Lanka in Adelaide? let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below.

1806: Hastings picks up his first runs of the second innings with a drive off the back foot wide of mid-off. It won't worry the Proteas too much as it was on the up and, just as I write that, he pops one up just wide of the silly mid-off. Australia 7-203.

Ben Crase had some thoughts on Shane Watson from earlier this afternoon: How many times can we say "Shane Watson Looked good for 30 – 40 odd"? Isn't it time to find another answer at 3? Can we not ask the same question of the erratic Dave Warner, is a century every 20 innings a decent return on investment?

1804: Cricket boys of SA says: Lol boys against men!!!!! Oh dear Aussies batsmen getting a schoolboy lesson.

1800: WICKET! South Africa are cruising towards victory after Matthew Wade becomes Robin Peterson's third victim. The Aussie keeper went for the big early drive, as his natural game, and hit the ball straight to Graeme Smith at cover - the Proteas captain of course made no mistake. Wade returns to the pavilion having made 10; Mitchell Johnson is now at the wicket alongside Hastings. Australia are now 7-200.

1756: John Hastings is now at the wicket with Wade, the debutant defending his first three balls from Steyn away on the off-side.

1754: Dale Steyn returns to the attack at the expense of Morne Morkel who was struggling with his line. WICKET! Steyn makes an immediate breakthrough as he removes Hussey caught behind. Steyn drew Hussey into a drive with a ball the left-hander had previously been leaving and it was just the slightest of movement away that saw the ball catch the edge. De Villiers can't keep himself out of the action at the moment, although it was a regulation catch. Hussey goes for 26 and Australia are now 6-198.

1751: FOUR! Matthew Wade take up where he left off in the first innings as he pulls Elgar out to the square-leg boundary for two boundaries. Australia 5-198.

Brenton of Queensland is back: The standard line to trot out after seeing Dean Elgar bowl would be: 'as a bowler he makes a great bastman', but that'd be a flat out lie. Still, he can tell his grandkids he played in Ponting's last test and won, so good on him.

SB says: Once again the selection of shots from our top order has been horrible. Clarke is usually such a great player of spin but on this occasion his head was skyward and it was nothing more than a wild swipe. Fair play to Peterson though, he gave the ball a little extra flight and it just caught the edge of the rough for a little extra bounce. Well bowled - bad shot.

1742: Matthew Wade joins Hussey at the wicket, the keeper defending his first two balls away on the off-side.

1740: Peterson draws an edge from Hussey but the ball flies wide of Jacques Kallis at slip and the Aussie left-hander picks up three runs. WICKET! Clarke is deceived by Peterson who gets one to turn a little out of the rough, the Aussie captain stumped in a sharp piece of work from AB de Villiers. Clarke goes for 44 and Australia are now battling at 5-188.

1536: FOUR! Elgar serves up two full tosses to start his over before Clarke eventually smacks the third one out to the mid-wicket boundary for four. Clarke has raced to 44 and Australia are now 4-185.

1532: FOUR! Hussey blasts Peterson through cover-point with a thunderous cut shot off the back foot. The left-hander exacting revenge after Peterson hurled the ball back at him after fielding the ball from his own bowling. Hussey has now moved to 23. What's this @brenton of Queensland! We have Dean Elgar into the attack!

Another Punter Fan says: I know exactly what you mean, Leo Press of Newcastle....I too idolise the great Punter, and had to wipe away the tears when he got out. Do you have an autographed poster of the great man on your bedroom wall too? I bet you do.

1728: Clarke picks up another three runs and moves to 38 as Morkel again strays onto his pads, the Aussie skipper working him down to the square-leg boundary where the ball is just cut off just inside the rope. Clarke and Hussey aren't having too much trouble out there at the moment and with 40 minutes left before tea they're edging towards 200. Hussey picks up three runs from the final ball of the over with a lovely cover-drive. Australia 4-176.

1724: Brenton of Queensland is back with another dig at Elgar: Dare I say it... Dean Elgar: picked as a specialist fielder?

1722: FOUR!
Clarke follows up three runs from Hussey with a lovely on-drive from Peterson through mid-wicket. As usual, the Aussie skipper's footwork is exemplary and he again makes it back-to-back boundaries with a lofty shot in the same direction. Clarke then gets a little lucky when he advances down the pitch again, but this time hits one just short of mid-off. Australia 4-164.

1717: Morkel continues from the other end and immediately tests Hussey's reflexes after drinks with a short one. There's no movement for Morkel at the moment and the bounce still looks to be pretty true, too. There might be just a hint of late swing away from the left-hander. Hussey drops one wide of cover and picks up a single for the only runs of the over. Australia 4-153.

1713: SB says: The players return to action after a well-deserved drinks break. I'm going to throw it out there and ask for responses as to when this game will end. Will it be this session, today's final session or in one of tomorrow's final three sessions? Clarke sees of Peterson but gives up a maiden to the spinner in the process. Australia 4-152.

1710: Clarke is denied another boundary thanks to a brilliant save from Dean Elgar at cover-point. It was probably good enough to call it his second genuine contribution of the match @Brenton of Queensland! The Aussie skipper picks up a single for the only runs of the over. Australia 4-152.

1706: Hussey and Clarke have little trouble negotiating another Robin Peterson over. The left-hander uses his feet nicely to get down the pitch and work the spinner wide of mid-on for three.

1704: Arpit of India says: thanx punter we love u. u r such a great player. we nerver forget u.for ur game ,ur captaincy,ur style........ every thing we r miss u so much..............

1702: FOUR! Morkel strays on leg stump and Clarke is awake to the opportunity as he picks up a boundary down to fine leg. FOUR! The Aussie skipper picks up back-to-back boundaries with an on-drive wide of the mid-on fieldsman to move to 25 at a run a ball. Has he got another century or, dare we say it, another double century in him? Australia 4-147.

1657: Spinner Robin Peterson is back into the attack. There's still no real spin out there, so he's relying on flight and perhaps a bit of variable bounce, which was the undoing of Ponting. Hussey picks up a single for the only runs of the over. Australia 4-138.

1652: Graeme Smith introduces Morne Morkel into the attack and the lanky quick immediately draws an edge from the bat of Michael Hussey's bat. It goes straight to ground but he'll no doubt be bouyed by the delivery. Morkel starts his spell with a maiden as Hussey plays the rest of the over out watchfully.

Parko of Queanbeyan has some thoughts on Ponting's replacement: Well, considering Crappock has had a VENDETTA against Hughes for a few years - much like his dislike of Johnson - I'm sure he's not pushing a case for the former opener. For example, on Nov. 13 Crappock writes "Cowan bolts the door shut on Hughes... Hughes hasn't made a Sheild century yet" -even though the day before he scored 92 and then next game makes 158! I still think Hughesy has something to offer and if we are going to pick bowlers on their Shield form (ie, Hastings) then he does deserve another go.

1648: Philander beats Clarke with back-to-back balls outside the off-stump. The Aussie captain just seems to be shuffling around the crease a bit at the moment, though it must be said Philander is bowling a fantastic line. FOUR! The Aussie skipper picks up a boundary from the final ball of the over to break the shackles. He's moved to 16 and Australia are now 4-136.

1644: SB says: Steyn stays around the wicket to another left-hander, Michael Hussey, testing the veteran Aussie out with a couple of early short balls. It's going to take something pretty special from these two if Australia are to get even halfway to the Proteas' target. I tend to agree with RMB from Brisbane and bemoan the shot selection of out openers. Should they hold their spots for Hobart? Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment. Australia 4-132.

Brenton of Queensland takes a dig at dean Elgar: Congrats to Dean Elgar for finally contributing something in this game!

1637: OUCH! Clarke cops one flush on the crown jewels from Philander and immediately collapses on all fours. Aussie physio Alex Kountouris comes out to check on the skipper's well being and after a few deep breaths he returns to his feet and takes guard once again. Philander does his best to find the same region, but the Aussie skipper is up to the task this time and plays defensively back down the wicket.

RMB of Brisbane says: Batting has been beyond dumb in this match. Some atrocious shot selection from both openers. Ridiculous.

1632: FIFTY! Cowan brings up his half-century with a square-drive out to the point boundary. WICKET! Cowan brings his hard work undone as he falls for the Proteas sucker-punch and is caught pulling on the square-leg boundary from the bowling of Steyn. Cowan goes for 53 and the Aussies are now 4-137.

Rippersportspro of NSW says: Sam Bruce, you and Robert Craddock are both spot on. Both Khawaja and Doolan will be playing in the PM's match against Sri Lanka before the series starts. At the moment, I think Khawaja has the nod but Doolan is well and truly breathing down his neck. If the selectors go with Khawaja, I would have him at 4. If they go with Doolan, I would have him at 5. To say that the PM's game is crucial for both these candidates is an understatement. Either way, this should mean that hopefully Clarke moves up to 3 and Watson goes down to 6.

Barryhall says: Shame to see punter retire as long as we don't rue his departure in the Ashes

1626: Philander continues with his second over after lunch and Cowan moves to 48 as he picks off the speedster through mid-wicket. The opener retains the strike and moves to 49 as guides Philander down to fine-leg from the final ball of the over.

1622: Clarke picks up three runs through mid-wicket as he works Steyn off his pads. The Aussie captain has moved to 12 without any trouble and looks to be seeing the ball pretty well. Has he got another century or double century in him? Australia 3-123.

Parko of Queanbeyan says: Who cares what CRAPPOCK thinks - he is consistantly WRONG and is only "respected" within News Limited circles.

Sam Bruce says: Fair enough, Parko. Who are you throwing up as Ponting's replacement?

Tim of Brisbane says: Is COWAN the only aussie with his head screwed on? Chasing 600 against a quality bowling attack was almost impossible to begin with. Why treat a TEST as an ODI and play aggressive cricket when defending the good balls, ignoring the wide ones and punishing the bad ones would have been the only logical tactic??

1616: Vernon Philander takes the ball from the other end and strays down the leg side with his first delivery. Clarke doesn't miss the opportunity to get up and running after the break and picks up a single down to fine-leg. Philander follows Steyn's lead in coming around the wicket to Cowan, but the Aussie opener is once again solid in defence.

1614: Michael Clarke and Ed Cowan are back out in the middle and Dale Steyn takes the first over after the luncheon interval. The paceman decides to come around the wicket to Cowan and is immediately on the spot. FOUR! Cowan guides Steyn wide of gully and out to the backward-point boundary to bring up the first runs of the afternoon session. FOUR! Cowan hits back-to-back boundaries as he pulls Steyn through mid-wicket. He finishes the over with a solid forward defence. Australia 3-118.

1607: Parko of Queanbeyan says: Making 632 against the World's best attack on Day 4/5 of Test Match with Warner (44.35); Cowan (35.53); Watson (37.54); Ponting (52.21); Clarke (52.15); Hussey (50.98); Wade (34.42); Johnson (21.81) - and if they all make their averages it's 325 - THREE HUNDRED RUNS SHORT. Do your FORM and do your HOMEWORK all you DELUDED optimists because you ain't in the real world.

Leo Press of Newcastle says: Sad day for cricket, I have lost my hero!

Arjun of India says: Thank u punter for the memories . There is no cricket without u . Hope to see u soon as a fielding coach .

Rippersportspro of NSW says: Unlucky Punter, thanks for the many memories throughout a wonderful and unforgettable Test career. Now, I'm looking forward to hopefully seeing Cowan, Clarke and Hussey all replicate what they did in Brisbane. Some runs from Wade and the tail wagging would be very handy as well.

1546: Sam Bruce says: Well said, Rippersportspro. It's going to be weird to see an Australia Test line-up without Ricky Ponting's name on it come Hobart. Attention now turns to who'll replace him and News Limited journalist Robert Craddock is currently on The Cricket Show suggesting it's a race in two between Alex Doolan and Usman Khawaja. Who do you think will get the nod?

Daniel of Melbourne says: I'm really liking Cowan's attitude at the moment. He's hitting a lot of the good deliveries put in front of him and is playing with a straight bat. I think any chance of the win is riding on his shoulders right now. As much as I love Warner in the team I think he would be better suited down the order which sucks because our middle order is solid. If I had to pick a team for the next Test I think I would go Cowan, Hughes, Khawaja, Warner Clarke, Hussey, Wade, Siddle, Hilfenhaus, Starc and Lyon. Hilf has only played two average Tests in the whole season and I think he deserves more of a shot at it. Watson needs to figure out what is going on because at the moment he shouldn't be playing unless he can bowl at least 15 overs an innings. Obviously Bird and Cutting are stiff to miss out but they wouldn't be in the frame if Pattinson and Cummins were fit anyway. Bird and Cutting will get their chance eventually and it remains to be seen if they can do good at Test level. Hastings's stats are great in Shield and he doesn't appear to be up to it. Siddle is consistent and aggressive, no one can deny that and Hilf can bowl great into the wind. Siddle's average certainly doesn't do him justice.

1542: Brian Fisher of Brisbane says: Sad to see Ponting go but the introduction of Hughes is just what we need.

1541: Ashton of CBD says: Clarke needs to pull a Brian Lara and get 400 not out for Australia to have any hope of chasing these runs down.

1538: Glenn of Batemans Bay says: Oh wow!. Bye bye Ricky. With tears in my eyes.

1530: Four! Four! Michael Clarke wastes little time settling in, the Aussie captain hitting back-to-back boundaries off Peterson to move to eight. The umpires take the bails off and Australia go to lunch at 3-110. Join us again in 40 minutes for the second session of play on day four.

1528: PONTING OUT! Ricky Ponting's Test career is over! The former Aussie captain rocked on the back foot and got an edge straight to slip from the bowling of spinner Robin Peterson for just eight runs. Ponting leaves the ground to a thunderous applause and handshakes from the Proteas players. Australia 3-102!

1525: Ponting looks to have sorted himself outside the off stump today. He's leaving well and doesn't appear to be going as hard at the ball as he usually does early in his innings. Steyn is persisting with the line the Proteas know gives Ponting trouble, but he looks pretty comfortable. The Aussies have moved to 2-97 just before lunch.

1515: FOUR! Ponting hits his second boundary with a beautiful on-drive through the legs of Morne Morkel at mid-on. Things are looking good for the former Aussie captain early in his innings.

1514: Steyn is back into the attack. He's had Ponting's measure so far this series. Ponting looks to be concentrating harder than I've seen all series. He's not pushing as hard at the ball as he usually does.

1510: Sharon says  What a fantastic gesture of sportsmanship by the South Africans.  Shows the respect they have for Punter… Even if they want to get him out as quickly as possible

Ben Higgins says: You're dead right Sharon. A great gesture by the Proteas. There is a great respect between these two nations. Ricky Ponting's wicket will be the most valued today/ tomorrow ... hopefully not.

1508: Rippersportspro of NSW Come on Punter, hope you have 1 last solid knock left in you. Have to agree with Falcon, 3 century makers is the minimum that the Aussies need if they are to somehow win this match. Hopefully Clarke's single figure score was a one off and a case of law of averages working against him. Hussey for a hometown hundred whenever he bats (hopefully tomorrow).

Ben Higgins says: Probably going to need a big double-century maker as well Rippersportspro. I'd like to think Punter has that innings in him. He's famed for that fighting spirit and Australia can't get their back any closer to the wall. Don't forget Matthew Wade. He was the hero of the first innings and is more than capable of making a century.

1506: We're seeing a change of ball here. The umpires obviously think the ball has gone out of shape. The Aussies wouldn't be too happy about that.

1504: The Aussies are now 2/93. The run-rate has never been a problem but there's half an hour before lunch and Michael Clarke would be praying he isn't required in the middle for a long time to come.

1501: FOUR! Ponting with a classic pull off Morkel. That was vintage Ponting. He's looked solid so far and what a geat way to get off the mark.

1452: Morkel around the wicket to Cowan now. The two Tasmanians are at the crease. That hasn't happened to often. The big South African is trying to shake Cowan up ... it worked against Watson.

1448: SIX! Amazing shot. Ed Cowan launches a slog sweep over the cover boundary. Well that is certainly one way to up the scoring rate and push the South Africans back.

1447: Ponting strides to the pitch. A huge ovation as the former captain walks into the middle for the last time in his 168th Test and the South Africans stand in a guard of honour. What a fantastic gesture.

1445: WICKET!! Watson 25 (c Smith b Morkel; AUS 2/81) Watson gets squared up and Smith takes a nice catch, low and to his right. Morkel gets the breakthrough.

1444: A shout! AB de Villiers asks the question after Watson tries to glance the ball off his hip. The South Africans decide not to review it and replays suggest they made the right decision. The ball was no where near the bat.

1440: Watson has gone past Cowan now. A couple of classy boundaries has taken Watson to 25 while Cowan is on 24. Both the batsman seem to have got their eye in now.

1436: FOUR RUNS: Shane Watson drives back past Morkel for four runs. A lovely stroke as Watson looks to get his feet moving . As shown on Sunday the batsman can get on top after the new ball loses its tricks.

1430: DRINKS. Australia have survived the first hour with the loss of only one wicket. David Warner went on the second ball of the day to a cracker from Philander. However, Watson and Cowan have steadied the ship and put on 33 runs. Australia are now 1/73.

1428: BOUNDARY! Watson creams a full toss from Peterson for four runs. Watson is starting to open up a bit now.

1427: Ball to the groin.  Ouch that hurt! Cowan cops an inside edge into his corridor of uncertainty. Couple of deep breathes Ed, you'll be right.

1424: FOUR! Watson belts a wide short ball from Morkel to the boundary. He follows it up with a clip off the legs that rotates the strike nicely. That's what the Aussies are going to need today. Changing it up and keeping the scoreboard ticking over. The South Africans will try to strangle us and build pressure by drying up the runs.

1422: Morne Morkel into the attack. Ok. I might have gone a bit early hoping Morkel was out of the attack. He has been the most dangerous Proteas paceman in this series.

1420: Robin Peterson is on. South Africa turn to spin far earlier than I though they might. Does this mean Morne Morkel is out of action for today. Let's hope so. Cowan is now on 22 and Watson is taking his time, he's still on nine.

1415: FOUR RUNS! Cowan knocks a classy drive down the ground to the boundary line. Steyn pitched it up looking for some swing but Cowan pounced. The Aussies will need to jump on any loose balls today. The score moves along to 1/62.

1410: Brayden Yates asks How many runs would Australia need to get without the test being declared a failure? Considering we lost that is, and also why do you think we could not kill off SA in the first 2 tests, we could be world No.1 by now.

Ben Higgins says: I think it is more a matter of time rather than runs. If Australia can survive today I think it would be an achievement and if they can do that then the runs shoud follow. Any home series loss should be declared a failure. There is no such thing as an honourable loss.
Why we couldn't kill off South Africa. In Brisbane a day and a half was lost to run so that's fair enough. In Adelaide we just ran into a bloke who would not be moved. Faf du Plessis was incredible and Australia is going to need a similar performance here. Also losing James Pattinson didn't help.

1405: Ashton of CBD: This innings is do or die for Watson. He must make this the day he finally converts to another test 100 to retain his spot at number 3.

Ben Higgins says: I reckon you're spot on Ashton. Watson still hasn't cemented himself in the top order - as much as the Australian hierarchy would love him to. I think with the inclusion of Khawaja, Hughes or Quiney it should allow Watto to move down the order a bit.

1402: Amla is in to a bat pad as the South Africans think Ed Cowan might be nervous off his pads. Graeme Smith is certainly going after the Aussies early on day four.

1359: Geoff from Sydney: Hi Ben, I am at a loss to understand the criticism of Starc's performance yesterday, he Bowled 26% of all the Overs Bowled, went for 27% of the Runs, and took 60% of the Wickets. How does that make him part of a "second string, pop gun attack" as labelled by some Writers ? If anybody let the side down it was watson who only Bowled 9 Overs all day, (so much for his fitness) and Lyon who didn't take Wickets and didn't contain.

Ben Higgins says: You're not wrong Geoff, Starc was 12th man in the first two Tests so is hardly second string. He's a wicket-taker, if he gives up some runs I don't think Michael Clarke would mind too much. I don't think anybody knows why Watson didn't bowl except for Watson and Clarke. It certainly is a puzzle. Lastly, I think its a bit harsh on Lyon. He was very good in the first innings and we know Perth isn't kind to spinners on a whole. He is the best spinner in Australia and deserves to start every Test.

1348: FOUR RUNS: Glorious straight drive by Watson off Steyn. That shows you the pitch is batter friendly. Hopefully provides Watto with a bit of confidence and Australia moves to 1/49.

1345: Ashton of CBD: This innings is do or die for Watson. He must make this the day he finally converts to another test 100 to retain his spot at number 3.

Ben Higgins says: Got to say I agree with you there Ashton. Watson hasn't cemented himself at the top of the line-up as much as the selectors would love him to. The inclusion to Khawaja or Hughes would allow him to move down the order.

1344: A maiden for Philander as Cowan looks comfortable in behind the ball. He is going to be a key today and could be the man to hold the innings together and allows the likes of Watson and Clarke to attack.

1339: A shout from the South Africans. It was turned down as Shane Watson's breaths a sigh of relief. Replays show it might have been out. Steyn is certainly getting the ball to talk at this early stage. Cowan is on 13 and Watson has made one.

1335: Well, I was going to say good afternoon and welcome to the coverage but that's been thrown out the window already. It's Ben Higgins here with you to start the day. Warner's gone and Watson survives a close call on his first ball. Should be an interesting day ahead. Stay tuned!

1331: WICKET! Warner (29 c Smith b Philander; Aus 1/40) Australia get off to a shocking start as Warner is on his way second ball. Great ball from Vernon Philander. Got one to jag away and take the edge through to Smith at first slip. Wow!

1320: Hello and welcome to day four of foxsports.com.au's LIVE and INTERACTIVE coverage of the third Test between Australia and South Africa. The weather is looking good at the WACA and we're almost ready for the start of the day's play. Australia's batsman will be desperate to survive but they must also keep the scoreboard ticking over if they hope to chase down the massive 632 runs needed for victory. Stick with us throughout the day and don't forget to send in your questions and comments by emailing blogs@foxsports.com.au or leaving a comment at the bottom of the page.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Mourning Chiefs end losing streak

Inspiration ... Kansas City Chiefs players kneel and pray before their win against Carolina Panthers. Source: AFP

A sombre Kansas City Chiefs took inspiration from tragedy to end an eight-game losing streak, a day after a player committed suicide and killed his girlfriend.

Playing in the shadow of tragedy the Chiefs beat the Carolina Panthers 27-21, in the wake of an incident in which police said Kansas linebacker Jovan Belcher shot and killed the 22-year old mother of his infant daughter.

He then drove to the team's Arrowhead Stadium and turned a gun on himself before fatally pulling the trigger in front of a coach and other staff.

The murder-suicide was part of a traumatic weekend in the NFL, with the Cleveland Browns confirming that groundskeeper Eric Eudker had been found dead on Saturday -- reportedly after hanging himself in a team maintenance shed.

Belcher's actions left the league reeling ahead of Sunday's match (Monday morning AEST) for an already struggling Chiefs team, which had won just one other game this season.

"It's been an incredibly difficult 24 hours for our family and the entire organisation," Chiefs chief executive Clark Hunt told the Kansas City Star before the game.

"We have so many guys on the team and on the coaching staff who are really hurting."

Hunt said he left the decision on whether to play up to players and head coach Romeo Crennel, who was among the Chiefs staff present when Belcher, 25, arrived on Saturday shortly after shooting his girlfriend Kasandra Perkins.

As police descended on Arrowhead Stadium in response to an emergency call, Belcher shot himself, Kansas City police spokesman Darin Snapp said.

Crennel, general manager Scott Pioli and another Chiefs staff member had gone outside to talk to Belcher.

"Belcher thanked them for being a Chief, and that's when he walked away," Snapp said.

"When he was 30 or 40 feet away, Belcher killed himself with one gunshot to his head.

"I spent the evening last night at the team hotel with them," Hunt told ESPN before the game.

"I wanted to be there with the team, with the coaches, to let them know I love them and support them and know what they're going through, and particularly the guys who were present in the parking lot when Jovan took his life. I know this has to be incredibly difficult."

The couple left a recently-born daughter. Police said she was in the care of Belcher's mother who, when visiting from out of town, saw the first shooting at a house near the stadium and called authorities.

The Chiefs opted not to memorialise Belcher specifically, but held a moment of silence before the game in recognition of victims of domestic violence.

Crennel was on the sideline, guiding the team to victory and Pioli was also at the game.

Belcher, who played high school football on Long Island, New York, had been with the Chiefs for four years. He joined them as an undrafted free agent out of university and worked his way into a starting position.

Police said Belcher and Perkins argued before he shot her, but the violence stunned those who knew the player.

"Something went crazy wrong, and we'll probably never know what it is," Belcher's agent Joe Linta was quoted as saying on SI.com.

For help in suicide prevention, call Lifeline on 131114 or the SANE Helpline, 1800 18 7263.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Live blog: AUS v SA, T3, D4

Fired up ... Dale Steyn and co. ripped through Australia's fragile batting order on day four. Source: Daniel Wilkins / News Limited

South Africa are cruising towards victory and the retention of the world No.1 ranking, as Australia lose their seventh wicket on day four at the WACA Ground.

The day began disastrously for Australia when David Warner was dismissed in the first over. Shane Watson followed Warner to the dressing room after making 25.

He looked solid until he was squared up and nicking through to Graeme Smith. The man of the moment, Ricky Ponting, then joined Ed Cowan at the crease and the former Aussie captain looked solid until he went for a cut shot off Robin Peterson and was caught at slip just before lunch.

Cowan brought up his half-century after the interval but was then dismissed by Steyn in the same over for 53.

Clarke and Michael Hussey set about the rescue mission and the pair were looking good until the Aussie skipper advanced on Peterson and was stumped after the ball turned out of the rough.

Hussey and Wade soon joined Clarke back in the pavilion, the pair falling to Steyn and Peterson respectively.

Join the conversation by sending a question or comment to blogs@foxsports.com.au or by leaving a comment at the bottom of the page.

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


3rd Test - WACA Ground

30 November 2012 - Day 4, Session 2

Australia 2nd Innings

J. Hastings 2 14 0 0 14.29
M. Johnson 3 2 0 0 150
R. Peterson 14 1 67 3 4.79

Latest comments (all times EDT):

1818: The Usual Suspect of State of Despair says: I hope the selectors at the end of this tour put their collectives hands up and accept responsibility for losing us the series. The old boys club has never been stronger in Australia and never been more embarrassing. I don't think the long term future for Australian cricket is looking all that wonderful under the current administration. Maybe its already time for the next inquiry.

1815: ZSM of Brisbane says: Way too aggressive. 5 of the 7 wickets to fall have been the batsman trying to force the pace. Only Warner and Watson can say they got genuinely good balls. Really disappointing. I'd have thought a much better strategy would have been to try and wear them down. Oh well, expecting them to bat 2 plus days and/or make 600 plus runs was always going to be an impossible task.

1810: SB says: That's tea, folks. Australia are 7-204. It's looking very much like the Proteas are going to wrap this one up tonight. The Australia batsman have played some pretty ordinary shots it must be said. What changes would you be making for the first Test against Sri Lanka in Adelaide? let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below.

1806: Hastings picks up his first runs of the second innings with a drive off the back foot wide of mid-off. It won't worry the Proteas too much as it was on the up and, just as I write that, he pops one up just wide of the silly mid-off. Australia 7-203.

Ben Crase had some thoughts on Shane Watson from earlier this afternoon: How many times can we say "Shane Watson Looked good for 30 – 40 odd"? Isn't it time to find another answer at 3? Can we not ask the same question of the erratic Dave Warner, is a century every 20 innings a decent return on investment?

1804: Cricket boys of SA says: Lol boys against men!!!!! Oh dear Aussies batsmen getting a schoolboy lesson.

1800: WICKET! South Africa are cruising towards victory after Matthew Wade becomes Robin Peterson's third victim. The Aussie keeper went for the big early drive, as his natural game, and hit the ball straight to Graeme Smith at cover - the Proteas captain of course made no mistake. Wade returns to the pavilion having made 10; Mitchell Johnson is now at the wicket alongside Hastings. Australia are now 7-200.

1756: John Hastings is now at the wicket with Wade, the debutant defending his first three balls from Steyn away on the off-side.

1754: Dale Steyn returns to the attack at the expense of Morne Morkel who was struggling with his line. WICKET! Steyn makes an immediate breakthrough as he removes Hussey caught behind. Steyn drew Hussey into a drive with a ball the left-hander had previously been leaving and it was just the slightest of movement away that saw the ball catch the edge. De Villiers can't keep himself out of the action at the moment, although it was a regulation catch. Hussey goes for 26 and Australia are now 6-198.

1751: FOUR! Matthew Wade take up where he left off in the first innings as he pulls Elgar out to the square-leg boundary for two boundaries. Australia 5-198.

Brenton of Queensland is back: The standard line to trot out after seeing Dean Elgar bowl would be: 'as a bowler he makes a great bastman', but that'd be a flat out lie. Still, he can tell his grandkids he played in Ponting's last test and won, so good on him.

SB says: Once again the selection of shots from our top order has been horrible. Clarke is usually such a great player of spin but on this occasion his head was skyward and it was nothing more than a wild swipe. Fair play to Peterson though, he gave the ball a little extra flight and it just caught the edge of the rough for a little extra bounce. Well bowled - bad shot.

1742: Matthew Wade joins Hussey at the wicket, the keeper defending his first two balls away on the off-side.

1740: Peterson draws an edge from Hussey but the ball flies wide of Jacques Kallis at slip and the Aussie left-hander picks up three runs. WICKET! Clarke is deceived by Peterson who gets one to turn a little out of the rough, the Aussie captain stumped in a sharp piece of work from AB de Villiers. Clarke goes for 44 and Australia are now battling at 5-188.

1536: FOUR! Elgar serves up two full tosses to start his over before Clarke eventually smacks the third one out to the mid-wicket boundary for four. Clarke has raced to 44 and Australia are now 4-185.

1532: FOUR! Hussey blasts Peterson through cover-point with a thunderous cut shot off the back foot. The left-hander exacting revenge after Peterson hurled the ball back at him after fielding the ball from his own bowling. Hussey has now moved to 23. What's this @brenton of Queensland! We have Dean Elgar into the attack!

Another Punter Fan says: I know exactly what you mean, Leo Press of Newcastle....I too idolise the great Punter, and had to wipe away the tears when he got out. Do you have an autographed poster of the great man on your bedroom wall too? I bet you do.

1728: Clarke picks up another three runs and moves to 38 as Morkel again strays onto his pads, the Aussie skipper working him down to the square-leg boundary where the ball is just cut off just inside the rope. Clarke and Hussey aren't having too much trouble out there at the moment and with 40 minutes left before tea they're edging towards 200. Hussey picks up three runs from the final ball of the over with a lovely cover-drive. Australia 4-176.

1724: Brenton of Queensland is back with another dig at Elgar: Dare I say it... Dean Elgar: picked as a specialist fielder?

1722: FOUR!
Clarke follows up three runs from Hussey with a lovely on-drive from Peterson through mid-wicket. As usual, the Aussie skipper's footwork is exemplary and he again makes it back-to-back boundaries with a lofty shot in the same direction. Clarke then gets a little lucky when he advances down the pitch again, but this time hits one just short of mid-off. Australia 4-164.

1717: Morkel continues from the other end and immediately tests Hussey's reflexes after drinks with a short one. There's no movement for Morkel at the moment and the bounce still looks to be pretty true, too. There might be just a hint of late swing away from the left-hander. Hussey drops one wide of cover and picks up a single for the only runs of the over. Australia 4-153.

1713: SB says: The players return to action after a well-deserved drinks break. I'm going to throw it out there and ask for responses as to when this game will end. Will it be this session, today's final session or in one of tomorrow's final three sessions? Clarke sees of Peterson but gives up a maiden to the spinner in the process. Australia 4-152.

1710: Clarke is denied another boundary thanks to a brilliant save from Dean Elgar at cover-point. It was probably good enough to call it his second genuine contribution of the match @Brenton of Queensland! The Aussie skipper picks up a single for the only runs of the over. Australia 4-152.

1706: Hussey and Clarke have little trouble negotiating another Robin Peterson over. The left-hander uses his feet nicely to get down the pitch and work the spinner wide of mid-on for three.

1704: Arpit of India says: thanx punter we love u. u r such a great player. we nerver forget u.for ur game ,ur captaincy,ur style........ every thing we r miss u so much..............

1702: FOUR! Morkel strays on leg stump and Clarke is awake to the opportunity as he picks up a boundary down to fine leg. FOUR! The Aussie skipper picks up back-to-back boundaries with an on-drive wide of the mid-on fieldsman to move to 25 at a run a ball. Has he got another century or, dare we say it, another double century in him? Australia 4-147.

1657: Spinner Robin Peterson is back into the attack. There's still no real spin out there, so he's relying on flight and perhaps a bit of variable bounce, which was the undoing of Ponting. Hussey picks up a single for the only runs of the over. Australia 4-138.

1652: Graeme Smith introduces Morne Morkel into the attack and the lanky quick immediately draws an edge from the bat of Michael Hussey's bat. It goes straight to ground but he'll no doubt be bouyed by the delivery. Morkel starts his spell with a maiden as Hussey plays the rest of the over out watchfully.

Parko of Queanbeyan has some thoughts on Ponting's replacement: Well, considering Crappock has had a VENDETTA against Hughes for a few years - much like his dislike of Johnson - I'm sure he's not pushing a case for the former opener. For example, on Nov. 13 Crappock writes "Cowan bolts the door shut on Hughes... Hughes hasn't made a Sheild century yet" -even though the day before he scored 92 and then next game makes 158! I still think Hughesy has something to offer and if we are going to pick bowlers on their Shield form (ie, Hastings) then he does deserve another go.

1648: Philander beats Clarke with back-to-back balls outside the off-stump. The Aussie captain just seems to be shuffling around the crease a bit at the moment, though it must be said Philander is bowling a fantastic line. FOUR! The Aussie skipper picks up a boundary from the final ball of the over to break the shackles. He's moved to 16 and Australia are now 4-136.

1644: SB says: Steyn stays around the wicket to another left-hander, Michael Hussey, testing the veteran Aussie out with a couple of early short balls. It's going to take something pretty special from these two if Australia are to get even halfway to the Proteas' target. I tend to agree with RMB from Brisbane and bemoan the shot selection of out openers. Should they hold their spots for Hobart? Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment. Australia 4-132.

Brenton of Queensland takes a dig at dean Elgar: Congrats to Dean Elgar for finally contributing something in this game!

1637: OUCH! Clarke cops one flush on the crown jewels from Philander and immediately collapses on all fours. Aussie physio Alex Kountouris comes out to check on the skipper's well being and after a few deep breaths he returns to his feet and takes guard once again. Philander does his best to find the same region, but the Aussie skipper is up to the task this time and plays defensively back down the wicket.

RMB of Brisbane says: Batting has been beyond dumb in this match. Some atrocious shot selection from both openers. Ridiculous.

1632: FIFTY! Cowan brings up his half-century with a square-drive out to the point boundary. WICKET! Cowan brings his hard work undone as he falls for the Proteas sucker-punch and is caught pulling on the square-leg boundary from the bowling of Steyn. Cowan goes for 53 and the Aussies are now 4-137.

Rippersportspro of NSW says: Sam Bruce, you and Robert Craddock are both spot on. Both Khawaja and Doolan will be playing in the PM's match against Sri Lanka before the series starts. At the moment, I think Khawaja has the nod but Doolan is well and truly breathing down his neck. If the selectors go with Khawaja, I would have him at 4. If they go with Doolan, I would have him at 5. To say that the PM's game is crucial for both these candidates is an understatement. Either way, this should mean that hopefully Clarke moves up to 3 and Watson goes down to 6.

Barryhall says: Shame to see punter retire as long as we don't rue his departure in the Ashes

1626: Philander continues with his second over after lunch and Cowan moves to 48 as he picks off the speedster through mid-wicket. The opener retains the strike and moves to 49 as guides Philander down to fine-leg from the final ball of the over.

1622: Clarke picks up three runs through mid-wicket as he works Steyn off his pads. The Aussie captain has moved to 12 without any trouble and looks to be seeing the ball pretty well. Has he got another century or double century in him? Australia 3-123.

Parko of Queanbeyan says: Who cares what CRAPPOCK thinks - he is consistantly WRONG and is only "respected" within News Limited circles.

Sam Bruce says: Fair enough, Parko. Who are you throwing up as Ponting's replacement?

Tim of Brisbane says: Is COWAN the only aussie with his head screwed on? Chasing 600 against a quality bowling attack was almost impossible to begin with. Why treat a TEST as an ODI and play aggressive cricket when defending the good balls, ignoring the wide ones and punishing the bad ones would have been the only logical tactic??

1616: Vernon Philander takes the ball from the other end and strays down the leg side with his first delivery. Clarke doesn't miss the opportunity to get up and running after the break and picks up a single down to fine-leg. Philander follows Steyn's lead in coming around the wicket to Cowan, but the Aussie opener is once again solid in defence.

1614: Michael Clarke and Ed Cowan are back out in the middle and Dale Steyn takes the first over after the luncheon interval. The paceman decides to come around the wicket to Cowan and is immediately on the spot. FOUR! Cowan guides Steyn wide of gully and out to the backward-point boundary to bring up the first runs of the afternoon session. FOUR! Cowan hits back-to-back boundaries as he pulls Steyn through mid-wicket. He finishes the over with a solid forward defence. Australia 3-118.

1607: Parko of Queanbeyan says: Making 632 against the World's best attack on Day 4/5 of Test Match with Warner (44.35); Cowan (35.53); Watson (37.54); Ponting (52.21); Clarke (52.15); Hussey (50.98); Wade (34.42); Johnson (21.81) - and if they all make their averages it's 325 - THREE HUNDRED RUNS SHORT. Do your FORM and do your HOMEWORK all you DELUDED optimists because you ain't in the real world.

Leo Press of Newcastle says: Sad day for cricket, I have lost my hero!

Arjun of India says: Thank u punter for the memories . There is no cricket without u . Hope to see u soon as a fielding coach .

Rippersportspro of NSW says: Unlucky Punter, thanks for the many memories throughout a wonderful and unforgettable Test career. Now, I'm looking forward to hopefully seeing Cowan, Clarke and Hussey all replicate what they did in Brisbane. Some runs from Wade and the tail wagging would be very handy as well.

1546: Sam Bruce says: Well said, Rippersportspro. It's going to be weird to see an Australia Test line-up without Ricky Ponting's name on it come Hobart. Attention now turns to who'll replace him and News Limited journalist Robert Craddock is currently on The Cricket Show suggesting it's a race in two between Alex Doolan and Usman Khawaja. Who do you think will get the nod?

Daniel of Melbourne says: I'm really liking Cowan's attitude at the moment. He's hitting a lot of the good deliveries put in front of him and is playing with a straight bat. I think any chance of the win is riding on his shoulders right now. As much as I love Warner in the team I think he would be better suited down the order which sucks because our middle order is solid. If I had to pick a team for the next Test I think I would go Cowan, Hughes, Khawaja, Warner Clarke, Hussey, Wade, Siddle, Hilfenhaus, Starc and Lyon. Hilf has only played two average Tests in the whole season and I think he deserves more of a shot at it. Watson needs to figure out what is going on because at the moment he shouldn't be playing unless he can bowl at least 15 overs an innings. Obviously Bird and Cutting are stiff to miss out but they wouldn't be in the frame if Pattinson and Cummins were fit anyway. Bird and Cutting will get their chance eventually and it remains to be seen if they can do good at Test level. Hastings's stats are great in Shield and he doesn't appear to be up to it. Siddle is consistent and aggressive, no one can deny that and Hilf can bowl great into the wind. Siddle's average certainly doesn't do him justice.

1542: Brian Fisher of Brisbane says: Sad to see Ponting go but the introduction of Hughes is just what we need.

1541: Ashton of CBD says: Clarke needs to pull a Brian Lara and get 400 not out for Australia to have any hope of chasing these runs down.

1538: Glenn of Batemans Bay says: Oh wow!. Bye bye Ricky. With tears in my eyes.

1530: Four! Four! Michael Clarke wastes little time settling in, the Aussie captain hitting back-to-back boundaries off Peterson to move to eight. The umpires take the bails off and Australia go to lunch at 3-110. Join us again in 40 minutes for the second session of play on day four.

1528: PONTING OUT! Ricky Ponting's Test career is over! The former Aussie captain rocked on the back foot and got an edge straight to slip from the bowling of spinner Robin Peterson for just eight runs. Ponting leaves the ground to a thunderous applause and handshakes from the Proteas players. Australia 3-102!

1525: Ponting looks to have sorted himself outside the off stump today. He's leaving well and doesn't appear to be going as hard at the ball as he usually does early in his innings. Steyn is persisting with the line the Proteas know gives Ponting trouble, but he looks pretty comfortable. The Aussies have moved to 2-97 just before lunch.

1515: FOUR! Ponting hits his second boundary with a beautiful on-drive through the legs of Morne Morkel at mid-on. Things are looking good for the former Aussie captain early in his innings.

1514: Steyn is back into the attack. He's had Ponting's measure so far this series. Ponting looks to be concentrating harder than I've seen all series. He's not pushing as hard at the ball as he usually does.

1510: Sharon says  What a fantastic gesture of sportsmanship by the South Africans.  Shows the respect they have for Punter… Even if they want to get him out as quickly as possible

Ben Higgins says: You're dead right Sharon. A great gesture by the Proteas. There is a great respect between these two nations. Ricky Ponting's wicket will be the most valued today/ tomorrow ... hopefully not.

1508: Rippersportspro of NSW Come on Punter, hope you have 1 last solid knock left in you. Have to agree with Falcon, 3 century makers is the minimum that the Aussies need if they are to somehow win this match. Hopefully Clarke's single figure score was a one off and a case of law of averages working against him. Hussey for a hometown hundred whenever he bats (hopefully tomorrow).

Ben Higgins says: Probably going to need a big double-century maker as well Rippersportspro. I'd like to think Punter has that innings in him. He's famed for that fighting spirit and Australia can't get their back any closer to the wall. Don't forget Matthew Wade. He was the hero of the first innings and is more than capable of making a century.

1506: We're seeing a change of ball here. The umpires obviously think the ball has gone out of shape. The Aussies wouldn't be too happy about that.

1504: The Aussies are now 2/93. The run-rate has never been a problem but there's half an hour before lunch and Michael Clarke would be praying he isn't required in the middle for a long time to come.

1501: FOUR! Ponting with a classic pull off Morkel. That was vintage Ponting. He's looked solid so far and what a geat way to get off the mark.

1452: Morkel around the wicket to Cowan now. The two Tasmanians are at the crease. That hasn't happened to often. The big South African is trying to shake Cowan up ... it worked against Watson.

1448: SIX! Amazing shot. Ed Cowan launches a slog sweep over the cover boundary. Well that is certainly one way to up the scoring rate and push the South Africans back.

1447: Ponting strides to the pitch. A huge ovation as the former captain walks into the middle for the last time in his 168th Test and the South Africans stand in a guard of honour. What a fantastic gesture.

1445: WICKET!! Watson 25 (c Smith b Morkel; AUS 2/81) Watson gets squared up and Smith takes a nice catch, low and to his right. Morkel gets the breakthrough.

1444: A shout! AB de Villiers asks the question after Watson tries to glance the ball off his hip. The South Africans decide not to review it and replays suggest they made the right decision. The ball was no where near the bat.

1440: Watson has gone past Cowan now. A couple of classy boundaries has taken Watson to 25 while Cowan is on 24. Both the batsman seem to have got their eye in now.

1436: FOUR RUNS: Shane Watson drives back past Morkel for four runs. A lovely stroke as Watson looks to get his feet moving . As shown on Sunday the batsman can get on top after the new ball loses its tricks.

1430: DRINKS. Australia have survived the first hour with the loss of only one wicket. David Warner went on the second ball of the day to a cracker from Philander. However, Watson and Cowan have steadied the ship and put on 33 runs. Australia are now 1/73.

1428: BOUNDARY! Watson creams a full toss from Peterson for four runs. Watson is starting to open up a bit now.

1427: Ball to the groin.  Ouch that hurt! Cowan cops an inside edge into his corridor of uncertainty. Couple of deep breathes Ed, you'll be right.

1424: FOUR! Watson belts a wide short ball from Morkel to the boundary. He follows it up with a clip off the legs that rotates the strike nicely. That's what the Aussies are going to need today. Changing it up and keeping the scoreboard ticking over. The South Africans will try to strangle us and build pressure by drying up the runs.

1422: Morne Morkel into the attack. Ok. I might have gone a bit early hoping Morkel was out of the attack. He has been the most dangerous Proteas paceman in this series.

1420: Robin Peterson is on. South Africa turn to spin far earlier than I though they might. Does this mean Morne Morkel is out of action for today. Let's hope so. Cowan is now on 22 and Watson is taking his time, he's still on nine.

1415: FOUR RUNS! Cowan knocks a classy drive down the ground to the boundary line. Steyn pitched it up looking for some swing but Cowan pounced. The Aussies will need to jump on any loose balls today. The score moves along to 1/62.

1410: Brayden Yates asks How many runs would Australia need to get without the test being declared a failure? Considering we lost that is, and also why do you think we could not kill off SA in the first 2 tests, we could be world No.1 by now.

Ben Higgins says: I think it is more a matter of time rather than runs. If Australia can survive today I think it would be an achievement and if they can do that then the runs shoud follow. Any home series loss should be declared a failure. There is no such thing as an honourable loss.
Why we couldn't kill off South Africa. In Brisbane a day and a half was lost to run so that's fair enough. In Adelaide we just ran into a bloke who would not be moved. Faf du Plessis was incredible and Australia is going to need a similar performance here. Also losing James Pattinson didn't help.

1405: Ashton of CBD: This innings is do or die for Watson. He must make this the day he finally converts to another test 100 to retain his spot at number 3.

Ben Higgins says: I reckon you're spot on Ashton. Watson still hasn't cemented himself in the top order - as much as the Australian hierarchy would love him to. I think with the inclusion of Khawaja, Hughes or Quiney it should allow Watto to move down the order a bit.

1402: Amla is in to a bat pad as the South Africans think Ed Cowan might be nervous off his pads. Graeme Smith is certainly going after the Aussies early on day four.

1359: Geoff from Sydney: Hi Ben, I am at a loss to understand the criticism of Starc's performance yesterday, he Bowled 26% of all the Overs Bowled, went for 27% of the Runs, and took 60% of the Wickets. How does that make him part of a "second string, pop gun attack" as labelled by some Writers ? If anybody let the side down it was watson who only Bowled 9 Overs all day, (so much for his fitness) and Lyon who didn't take Wickets and didn't contain.

Ben Higgins says: You're not wrong Geoff, Starc was 12th man in the first two Tests so is hardly second string. He's a wicket-taker, if he gives up some runs I don't think Michael Clarke would mind too much. I don't think anybody knows why Watson didn't bowl except for Watson and Clarke. It certainly is a puzzle. Lastly, I think its a bit harsh on Lyon. He was very good in the first innings and we know Perth isn't kind to spinners on a whole. He is the best spinner in Australia and deserves to start every Test.

1348: FOUR RUNS: Glorious straight drive by Watson off Steyn. That shows you the pitch is batter friendly. Hopefully provides Watto with a bit of confidence and Australia moves to 1/49.

1345: Ashton of CBD: This innings is do or die for Watson. He must make this the day he finally converts to another test 100 to retain his spot at number 3.

Ben Higgins says: Got to say I agree with you there Ashton. Watson hasn't cemented himself at the top of the line-up as much as the selectors would love him to. The inclusion to Khawaja or Hughes would allow him to move down the order.

1344: A maiden for Philander as Cowan looks comfortable in behind the ball. He is going to be a key today and could be the man to hold the innings together and allows the likes of Watson and Clarke to attack.

1339: A shout from the South Africans. It was turned down as Shane Watson's breaths a sigh of relief. Replays show it might have been out. Steyn is certainly getting the ball to talk at this early stage. Cowan is on 13 and Watson has made one.

1335: Well, I was going to say good afternoon and welcome to the coverage but that's been thrown out the window already. It's Ben Higgins here with you to start the day. Warner's gone and Watson survives a close call on his first ball. Should be an interesting day ahead. Stay tuned!

1331: WICKET! Warner (29 c Smith b Philander; Aus 1/40) Australia get off to a shocking start as Warner is on his way second ball. Great ball from Vernon Philander. Got one to jag away and take the edge through to Smith at first slip. Wow!

1320: Hello and welcome to day four of foxsports.com.au's LIVE and INTERACTIVE coverage of the third Test between Australia and South Africa. The weather is looking good at the WACA and we're almost ready for the start of the day's play. Australia's batsman will be desperate to survive but they must also keep the scoreboard ticking over if they hope to chase down the massive 632 runs needed for victory. Stick with us throughout the day and don't forget to send in your questions and comments by emailing blogs@foxsports.com.au or leaving a comment at the bottom of the page.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More
techieblogger.com Techie Blogger Techie Blogger