Just a few days after England captain Andrew Strauss referred to the International Cricket Council (ICC) as a "toothless tiger" cricket legend Geoff Boycott told a radio show that the ICC should begin running its own 'sting operations' to catch cheats.
Boycott's comments arrived in the wake of a recent court case, in which a number of high-profile cricket players and officials were found guilty of cheating, chiefly by intentionally bowling no-balls in Test matches.
The convicted include Salman Butt, former captain of the Pakistan team, and his agent, Mazhar Majeed, who is believed to have been the ring-leader behind the scam. People who look at cricket betting online will want the game to be made as clean as possible.
When asked a fan-submitted question about a possible means of preventing match-fixing, Boycott suggested that governments in South Asia should consider legalising betting on cricket, to reduce the popularity of "back-street, illegal bookmakers".
The 71-year-old also said that the ICC should try to emulate the investigative journalism of the News of the World or the undercover skills of the Secret Intelligence Service, otherwise known as MI6, to weed out illicit behaviour.
However, the crux of Boycott's argument was that the ICC was "wringing hands", rather than being pro-active in the fight against corruption.
Boycott is just one of a number of pundits, fans, and cricket officials calling for the Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU), the ICC's equivalent of the secret service, to "get tough on crooks", to quote former Aussie cricketer, Ian Chappell.
Chappell recounted a recent conversation with an ACSU official on the ESPN website, in which he claimed that the ICC's 'cricket police' didn't understand the mechanics behind a betting scam; notably, that criminals, rather than players, orchestrate match-fixing.
Many cricketers, such as England's Michael Vaughan, are hoping for a zero-tolerance approach to cheating, involving an immediate and permanent ban from cricket for those found guilty of a swindle.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Monday, October 31, 2011
County stars sign fresh deals
While the end of the County Championship has left cricket fans wandering aimlessly or perusing other sports, many players have begun the obligatory contract negotiations with their club, a development that has seen Nottinghamshire, Essex, Derbyshire, and many others, throw contract extensions at their players.
Paul Franks, who previously "challenged" himself to remain at Nottinghamshire for the remainder of his career, has secured a new contract at Trent Bridge, meaning that the cricketer will be able to extend his tenure at the club until at least 2013. The all-rounder says that he is "proud" to remain at Notts. Those betting online will be keeping an eye on him.
Heading south; bowler, Tim Philips, has signed an improved deal at Essex. The 30-year-old is a prolific spinner, taking 26 wickets in Twenty20 tournaments last season. His one-day successes are likely the reason for Essex's decision to keep him on the books for another year, but Paul Grayson, chief at the cricket side, says that he wants Philips to "push on" with his four-day cricket.
At Derbyshire, young starlet, Peter Burgoyne, has penned a contract keeping him in the Midlands for the next two years. However, the 17-year-old will not play as a professional until 2013. Burgoyne, described as "refreshingly fearless" by coach, Karl Krikken, is tied to a summer contract, while he completes his education. Pundits like Michael Vaughan will be keeping an eye on his progress.
Two more changes of note; Tim Linley, bowler at Surrey, walked away from the negotiating table with a new two year deal, while opening batsman, Karl Turner, who is Franks' team mate at Notts, has signed a one year contract, following a successful trial period. "We feel that he is a player who could develop, given an opportunity," Notts boss, Mick Newell, said, of Turner.
Paul Franks, who previously "challenged" himself to remain at Nottinghamshire for the remainder of his career, has secured a new contract at Trent Bridge, meaning that the cricketer will be able to extend his tenure at the club until at least 2013. The all-rounder says that he is "proud" to remain at Notts. Those betting online will be keeping an eye on him.
Heading south; bowler, Tim Philips, has signed an improved deal at Essex. The 30-year-old is a prolific spinner, taking 26 wickets in Twenty20 tournaments last season. His one-day successes are likely the reason for Essex's decision to keep him on the books for another year, but Paul Grayson, chief at the cricket side, says that he wants Philips to "push on" with his four-day cricket.
At Derbyshire, young starlet, Peter Burgoyne, has penned a contract keeping him in the Midlands for the next two years. However, the 17-year-old will not play as a professional until 2013. Burgoyne, described as "refreshingly fearless" by coach, Karl Krikken, is tied to a summer contract, while he completes his education. Pundits like Michael Vaughan will be keeping an eye on his progress.
Two more changes of note; Tim Linley, bowler at Surrey, walked away from the negotiating table with a new two year deal, while opening batsman, Karl Turner, who is Franks' team mate at Notts, has signed a one year contract, following a successful trial period. "We feel that he is a player who could develop, given an opportunity," Notts boss, Mick Newell, said, of Turner.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Ponting needs to help Australia revival
Ricky Ponting insists he is enjoying being one of the Australia squad, without the pressure of captaincy, and he can play a pivotal role in helping the team go forward.
Many felt when Ponting stepped down as skipper following the home Ashes defeat to England that was the end of his illustrious career, but the battler continues to fight on.
'Punter' has never been a player to accept things and roll over in defeat, with his Test figures highlighting the type of batsman he has been for his country. Over 12,400 Test runs and an average of 53.26, tells its own story!
At the age of 36, the Tasmanian still has plenty to offer and could yet play on for another three or four years at the top level – and Australia need him to. People looking at the mobile sports betting will know this.
The drubbing by England in 2010-11 may have finished off some players, but Ponting is determined to bounce back and drag the youngsters with him, as the Baggy Greens look to recover and compete with the world's best again.
An outstanding knock of 63 in the rain-affected 1st ODI with South Africa at Centurion highlighted how much his country still needs him and the veteran appears happy to continue. People betting online should remember this.
Ponting said: "I'm a lot more relaxed with the things I can do outside of the training paddock. When I get back to the hotel, it's pretty much just my time and catching up with the boys."
"What I'm trying to do now is spend as much time as I can with the young guys, away from the cricket ground as well, learn a bit about them and try and help them to learn as fast as possible."
Bowlers Pat Cummins and Mitchell Marsh, at the age of just 18 and 20 respectively, were surprise inclusions in the latest squad and Ponting says he has been impressed with both players.
They couldn't have a better mentor than a man who has been there and won everything there is to win in cricket and Ponting remains keen to help the team progress.
Many felt when Ponting stepped down as skipper following the home Ashes defeat to England that was the end of his illustrious career, but the battler continues to fight on.
'Punter' has never been a player to accept things and roll over in defeat, with his Test figures highlighting the type of batsman he has been for his country. Over 12,400 Test runs and an average of 53.26, tells its own story!
At the age of 36, the Tasmanian still has plenty to offer and could yet play on for another three or four years at the top level – and Australia need him to. People looking at the mobile sports betting will know this.
The drubbing by England in 2010-11 may have finished off some players, but Ponting is determined to bounce back and drag the youngsters with him, as the Baggy Greens look to recover and compete with the world's best again.
An outstanding knock of 63 in the rain-affected 1st ODI with South Africa at Centurion highlighted how much his country still needs him and the veteran appears happy to continue. People betting online should remember this.
Ponting said: "I'm a lot more relaxed with the things I can do outside of the training paddock. When I get back to the hotel, it's pretty much just my time and catching up with the boys."
"What I'm trying to do now is spend as much time as I can with the young guys, away from the cricket ground as well, learn a bit about them and try and help them to learn as fast as possible."
Bowlers Pat Cummins and Mitchell Marsh, at the age of just 18 and 20 respectively, were surprise inclusions in the latest squad and Ponting says he has been impressed with both players.
They couldn't have a better mentor than a man who has been there and won everything there is to win in cricket and Ponting remains keen to help the team progress.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Aussie coach steps down
Tim Nielsen has announced he is stepping down from his role as head coach of the Australian cricket team after four years of 'living the dream'.
The 43-year-old confirmed his departure after his side's draw in the final test of the series against Sri Lanka in Colombo, a result which means the team have won nine series out of 15 since the London-born coach took over. Those looking at the mobile betting will know that's not a bad return.
Nielsen says he decided to quit after being told he would have to reapply for his job after the Australian Cricket board announced they were restricting the management team and admits that despite the disappointment of not being offered a new contract, it may just be the right time to walk away from the job.
"Unfortunately I wasn't good enough to play cricket for Australia, so I've been living the dream. This has been the greatest job that I could do," said Nielsen.
"I'm very proud of the fact that I've been able to do it for the past four years, which I feel is a long term in international sport."
Nielsen has had a relatively successful time as coach of his country but unfortunately he'll always be remembered for his side's disappointed 3-1 Ashes defeat against England earlier this year. That loss has prompted the board's decision to change the selection panel with head of selectors Andrew Hilditch and selector Greg Chappell also falling foul of the changes. People who bet on sports will be keeping a close eye on the shake up.
However, the experience hasn't deterred him and he says he will be looking for other opportunities within the game."I'm a cricket coach, I'm a cricket person. I certainly will be looking at other opportunities and seeing what's out there," he added.
The 43-year-old confirmed his departure after his side's draw in the final test of the series against Sri Lanka in Colombo, a result which means the team have won nine series out of 15 since the London-born coach took over. Those looking at the mobile betting will know that's not a bad return.
Nielsen says he decided to quit after being told he would have to reapply for his job after the Australian Cricket board announced they were restricting the management team and admits that despite the disappointment of not being offered a new contract, it may just be the right time to walk away from the job.
"Unfortunately I wasn't good enough to play cricket for Australia, so I've been living the dream. This has been the greatest job that I could do," said Nielsen.
"I'm very proud of the fact that I've been able to do it for the past four years, which I feel is a long term in international sport."
Nielsen has had a relatively successful time as coach of his country but unfortunately he'll always be remembered for his side's disappointed 3-1 Ashes defeat against England earlier this year. That loss has prompted the board's decision to change the selection panel with head of selectors Andrew Hilditch and selector Greg Chappell also falling foul of the changes. People who bet on sports will be keeping a close eye on the shake up.
However, the experience hasn't deterred him and he says he will be looking for other opportunities within the game."I'm a cricket coach, I'm a cricket person. I certainly will be looking at other opportunities and seeing what's out there," he added.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Aussie skipper wary of spin
Australia captain Michael Clarke reckons spin is going to be a massive factor in his side's upcoming battles with Sri Lanka and his team must improve if they wish to prevail.
The two nations are meeting in Twenty20, one-day and Tests matches, with Australia already having gone down 2-0 in the two-match Twenty20 series. Those following the cricket odds will be wondering if they can bounce back.
In the second match, spin king Ajantha Mendis claimed a world record six-wicket haul and Clarke is hoping his side can stand up better to such bowling when the 50-over one-day series begins.
But Australia are a team suffering for form, as they are coming off their 3-1 Ashes reverse last winter, and have looked to revitalise their fortunes by calling up a host of younger players to bring through a new generation. The cricket betting promotions show they need improvement from somewhere.
At least Clarke, who takes over the captaincy from T20 skipper Cameron White, can bring senior batsmen Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey back into the side as Australia look to prove their mettle in the one-day series before the vital three Tests.
"We will get a lot of spin to face. If we are to win the series we have to play spin well," said the skipper.
"If we play our best cricket there is no reason why we can't win the series."
Clarke has described Mendis as a "good bowler in all forms of the game" and the Sri Lanka spinner looks likely to play a major part in the upcoming one-day and Test series between the sides.
The two nations are meeting in Twenty20, one-day and Tests matches, with Australia already having gone down 2-0 in the two-match Twenty20 series. Those following the cricket odds will be wondering if they can bounce back.
In the second match, spin king Ajantha Mendis claimed a world record six-wicket haul and Clarke is hoping his side can stand up better to such bowling when the 50-over one-day series begins.
But Australia are a team suffering for form, as they are coming off their 3-1 Ashes reverse last winter, and have looked to revitalise their fortunes by calling up a host of younger players to bring through a new generation. The cricket betting promotions show they need improvement from somewhere.
At least Clarke, who takes over the captaincy from T20 skipper Cameron White, can bring senior batsmen Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey back into the side as Australia look to prove their mettle in the one-day series before the vital three Tests.
"We will get a lot of spin to face. If we are to win the series we have to play spin well," said the skipper.
"If we play our best cricket there is no reason why we can't win the series."
Clarke has described Mendis as a "good bowler in all forms of the game" and the Sri Lanka spinner looks likely to play a major part in the upcoming one-day and Test series between the sides.
Monday, August 1, 2011
India hit by Sehwag blow
India are not sure when Virender Sehwag will join up with their squad in England, but the batsman will miss the first two Tests.
The 32-year-old missed the recent tour of the West Indies after having an operation on his shoulder, although it was originally thought he would be fit for the first Test against England.
But Indian officials say his recovery if taking longer than expected and they await further news on his progress. People looking at the India cricket betting will know what a big miss he'll be.
India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni admits Sehwag will be a big loss for the tourists and coach Duncan Fletcher says they have heard that he "maybe over for the third and fourth Test".
The opener is expected to be replaced by Abhinav Mukund for the opening two Tests – at Lord’s and Trent Bridge – after impressing in the Caribbean.
Mukund scored a half-century (62) in the third Test against the Windies and is likely to be asked to open with the ever-impressive Gautam Gambhir.
Dhoni admits that India are a team that "relies on the openers quite a bit" and feels a good start will help them "capitalise with the middle order".
The India skipper added: "There aren't many cricketers in the world who can have the impact he (Sehwag) can. Of course we'll miss him, but the good thing for Indian cricket is it gives a chance to a youngster like Mukund."
The first of four Tests begins at Lord’s on Thursday July 21, with the two teams then doing battle at Trent Bridge, Edgbaston and The Oval, before one Twenty20 international and five ODIs.
The 32-year-old missed the recent tour of the West Indies after having an operation on his shoulder, although it was originally thought he would be fit for the first Test against England.
But Indian officials say his recovery if taking longer than expected and they await further news on his progress. People looking at the India cricket betting will know what a big miss he'll be.
India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni admits Sehwag will be a big loss for the tourists and coach Duncan Fletcher says they have heard that he "maybe over for the third and fourth Test".
The opener is expected to be replaced by Abhinav Mukund for the opening two Tests – at Lord’s and Trent Bridge – after impressing in the Caribbean.
Mukund scored a half-century (62) in the third Test against the Windies and is likely to be asked to open with the ever-impressive Gautam Gambhir.
Dhoni admits that India are a team that "relies on the openers quite a bit" and feels a good start will help them "capitalise with the middle order".
The India skipper added: "There aren't many cricketers in the world who can have the impact he (Sehwag) can. Of course we'll miss him, but the good thing for Indian cricket is it gives a chance to a youngster like Mukund."
The first of four Tests begins at Lord’s on Thursday July 21, with the two teams then doing battle at Trent Bridge, Edgbaston and The Oval, before one Twenty20 international and five ODIs.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Warks vs MCC Universities SEC
With my car needing to go to the garage for its MOT i have had the day off today and this morning i went along to Edgbaston to catch the morning session of day 3 of the Second Eleven Championship game between the Warwickshire 2nd XI and MCC Universities. Of course there is another cricket match going on somewhere but this was more fun. I took my camera along and took a few photos which you can see in the slideshow or you can view the full set here.
Afterwards in town i had another lovely coffee at 6/8 Kafé which has become my favourite coffee shop in the whole world already.
Afterwards in town i had another lovely coffee at 6/8 Kafé which has become my favourite coffee shop in the whole world already.
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