Akram surprised over ‘lazy’ Butt’s inclusion in T20 team

LAHORE - As Pakistan prepares to take on arch rivals India in a practice match ahead of the ICC World Twenty20 Championship starting from June 5, former captain Wasim Akram has expressed surpise over the selection of opener Salman Butt in the T20 team.

Landon Donovan warns Americans to be prepared in World Cup qualifier at Costa Rica

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica — Landon Donovan has a message for the younger players on the U.S. team preparing for Wednesday’s World Cup qualifier against Costa Rica at Saprissa Stadium.

Oz pacer Johnson asks girlfriend Bratich to marry him

LONDON - Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has asked his karate champ girlfriend Jessica Bratich to marry him.

India to meet Pakistan in Twenty20 warm up match today

OVAL - The Defending Champion India will take on Pakistan in the second warm up match of the Twenty20 world cup tournament here on Wednesday, which will be the first encounter between the two teams since Mumbai terror attacks of last November.

Memorial Tournament looking to offer “ultimate break” to players with local connection

DUBLIN, Ohio — By almost any standard, Chris Wilson doesn’t belong in the Memorial Tournament.

FIFA names 12 host cities for 2014 World Cup

NASSAU/SAO PAULO - The 12 host cities for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil were named Sunday by world body FIFA at its executive committee meeting in Nassau, Bahamas.

I am not an Ashes traitor: Buchanan

SYDNEY - Former Australian coach John Buchanan last night denied suggestions he had sold out Australian cricket by meeting English officials last week.

Australia to test Twenty20 form against Bangladesh: Haddin

LONDON - Australia is keen to gauge their Twenty20 form in Monday’s warm-up against Bangladesh, claimed wicketkeeper Brad Haddin.

Glitz, glamour planned for IPL closing ceremony

PRETORIA - After five weeks of exhilarating cricket, the Indian Premier League (IPL) will draw to a close in an electrifying closing ceremony at Wanderers Cricket Stadium in Johannesburg Sunday.