It's 4 you

Sanjay goes bald for 'Agneepath'

2011-06-16T19:13:00.000-07:00

Sanjay Dutt has gone partially bald! No no' its not any hair fall but it's the 45-degree temperature at the Diu that made the actor do so. Sanjay had to wear a prosthetic make up to pose bald for his forthcoming film 'Agneepath'. In the beginning Sanju Baba managed to don the look but the raising heat made the make up melt and leak from the actor's head.

This disturbed him in acting and started irritating his eyes. So, the actor decided to shave off his hair partially fromhis forehead. Well must say, Sanju, what a conviction for your work...

Indian American wins city council seat in Texas

2011-06-16T19:08:00.000-07:00

An Indian American has edged past a candidate of Pakistani origin to win a city council seat in Sugar Land, Texas.

In unofficial results, Harish Jajoo edged Pakistani American attorney and investment manager Farha Ahmed on June 11 in the runoff election for the city council seat in District 4 in Sugar Land.

Mr. Jajoo secured 1,473 or 52.38 per cent of the total votes, while 1,340 or 47.62 per cent polled for Ahmed. Mr. Jajoo had a 915-724 advantage in pre-Election Day balloting, while Ahmed polled better on voting day, getting 616 votes to 559 for her opponent.

The tight contest was marred by a flier, circulated before the election and quoting a Pakistani newspaper, erroneously insinuated that Ahmed would represent Afia Sidique, a woman dubbed as “Lady al Qaeda,” in a criminal case.

Siddiqui is a U.S.-educated Pakistani neuroscientist who was sentenced to 86 years in prison in a New York District Court in 2010 for trying to shoot US soldiers at a police station in Afghanistan in 2008. She was shown on the flier in two grainy mug shots along with Ahmed’s photo.

Ahmed issued a statement saying she is a civil litigation attorney and could not represent Siddiqui in a criminal case.

Ahmed did say, however, that she was approached a few years ago “by attorneys and human rights groups to help gather information to find two missing American children who were believed to have been kidnapped overseas.”

“It is inappropriate for me to discuss the details of the case any further other than to state that the children were found. I would also like to humbly request that the identities of the children be safeguarded for their protection,” she said.

Ahmed did not issue any further clarification to indicate if this work involved Siddiqui or her children.

Mr. Jajoo, through a statement said that, “I want to assure you that my campaign had nothing to do with this mailer, and I do not condone this type of tactic. I also believe that the voters deserve to hear from my opponent on this issue as well.”

On results, Mr. Jajoo said, “This culminates a tough race and validates that my campaign was based on right message, right priorities and right approach. I am humbled by the support and enthusiasm of my district voters.”

Mr. Jajoo also said he received a call from Ahmed the night of June 11 after the results were declared “to congratulate me and I invited her to work with me on the issues important to her.”

He said in a press statement that his priorities as a member of the council would be “public safety, infrastructure and quality of life” in Sugar Land.

The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for June 21.

Mr. Jajoo and his wife, Shashi, have two children.

I will have to work out on my flaws in nets: Raina

2011-06-16T19:02:00.000-07:00

Stand-in captain Suresh Raina on Thursday admitted the need to spend some time with coach Duncan Fletcher in the nets in order to iron out some flaws in his batting.

Raina who could muster only 74 runs from five ODIs was repeatedly out trying to play the wild slog over deep mid-wicket or extra cover.

“I need to spend some time in the middle. I just can’t go out there and play big shots. I will look to have a couple of sessions with the coach,” Raina stated at the media conference after his team lost the final ODI by seven wickets.

The skipper however wanted to stress on the positives. “It is disappointing that we lost the last two matches but I am happy that we won the series. We need to enjoy the moment,” he said.

Raina felt that turning point was definitely getting all out for 251 with 15 balls to go.

“I feel we fell short by at least 25 to 30 runs. But full credit to Andre Russell for the manner in which he bowled at the death.”

The batting of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Parthiv Patel along with Amit Mishra’s bowling was a big plus for this young team.

“Our fielding has also improved after sessions with new fielding coach Trevor Penny.”

About the upcoming Test series, Raina said that all those who have been selected are raring to go. “Obviously we have prepared well and the seniors who will join us will have to get acclimatised in the next few days.”

Man of the series Rohit said, “It was important for me to get some runs as I wanted to make this tour count. I am glad it came off well.”

Asked about his game plan, he answered, “I kept telling myself that I had to stay in the middle as long as possible. I wanted to take the game through to the end. But it is indeed very disappointing to lose two consecutive matches. I wanted to be around till the 48th or 49th over but it happened otherwise.”

West Indies skipper Darren Sammy lauded his bowlers for bringing them back in the match when it looked like Kohli and Rohit would take the game away.

“Credit to all the bowlers who came back very well. It looked like we would chase 300 at one stage.”

He was ecstatic about Darren Bravo’s match-winning effort of 86.

“We all know what Bravo is capable of doing. About Sarwan, we had to take a decision. Sarwan was cramping, thought it would be good for the team if a new batsman came in.

Although we won the last two matches but we need to start well in order to win the series,” the skipper said.

Sammy was hopeful that the team would do even better in the Test series and is taking inspiration from their victory against Pakistan

For man-of-the-match Russell, staying “positive and bowling in the right areas” helped.

“We have been playing good cricket over the past two games. I tried to remain positive and bowl in right areas.”

With the wicket offering some assistance, Russell admitted that it was a good strip to bowl on in the morning.

“It was a good wicket to bowl on in the morning. One or two of the Indian batsmen are not accustomed to the short ball, so I tried to use it as a surprise weapon.”

Virat Kohli and Manoj Tiwary consolidate after early losses

2011-06-16T18:55:00.001-07:00

Gayle's absence reflected in the sombre mood at Sabina Park

The final ODI of the five-match Digicel series got underway under the shadow of the Chris Gayle versus the West Indies Cricket Board conflict which turned from bad to worse after a stormy Wednesday night meeting between the two parties.

This reflected in the arena; the atmosphere was sombre.

On a surface with some juice, India was 73 for two after 15 overs here on Thursday. Much of the cricket was compelling.

Openers Parthiv Patel and Shikhar Dhwan were fired out early by the West Indian paceman. Then Virat Kohli and Manoj Tiwary, rightfully batting down the order, consolidated.

Bounce and carry

The surface at the Sabina Park had pace, bounce and carry. Batting demanded guts and application.

Kemar Roach worked up pace, extracted lift. Andre Russell too got the ball to climb.

Parthiv attempted the pull Rusell but found the ball coming on to the bat too quickly. The miscued stroke was held brilliantly by Anthony Martin.Dhawan, back in the squad, did not appear comfortable. He attempted to cut Roach and was picked up at first slip.

Kohli is a positive batsman who relishes a combat. Without being overly aggressive, he is a busy batsman. Kohli's straight-drive off Roach was a top-shot. Then, he cover-drove Sammy.

Sammy won the toss and opted to field. Adrian Barath replaced Danza Hyatt in the West Indies team. S. Badrinath and Praveen Kumar made way for Dhawan and Vinay Kumar in the Indian eleven.

Kohli who looked good for a three—figure mark was unfortunately run—out at 94 (104 balls, 10x4) but his fourth wicket partnership of 110 runs with Rohit (57, 72 balls, 2x4, 1x6) laid the foundation for the visitors to put up a stiff total.

But another failure from skipper Suresh Raina (0) and Yusuf Pathan’s (30, 29 balls, 2x4, 1x6) failure to make it count after getting set put paid to India’s hopes of posting a huge total.

From 189 for three in 35.5 overs, Indian batsmen blew away a golden opportunity to post a 300 plus total on a wicket where the ball was coming onto the bat.

If Virat was unlucky as he was beaten by fantastic throw from the deep by Ramnaresh Sarwan going for a second run, Rohit was guilty of throwing it away after doing all the hard work.

Skipper Raina would like to forget this series in a hurry as he compiled a poor 74 runs in five matches. Yusuf on his part was looking good to fire all cylinders but failed to handle the extra bounce.

Kohli’s innings was blemish free and it looks like he would walk into the first XI of the Test team after such a quality performance.

The Delhi youngster batted with lot of responsibility as he first steadied the ship with a 58—run third wicket partnership with Manoj Tiwary (22, 22 balls, 1x4, 1x6) and then a century stand with Rohit Sharma.

Skipper Raina will have to take bulk of the blame as India failed to consume 15 deliveries in the end which might mean that they finished atleast 25 runs short of what they were supposed to score.

Put into bat after Darren Sammy won the toss, India lost openers Parthiv Patel (6) and Shikhar Dhawan (11) by the seventh over as both were done in by the extra bounce in the strip.

Parthiv wasn’t in position to pull a Russell bouncer and was holed out at midwicket while Dhawan failed to negotiate a rising delivery and was cramped for room going for a cut shot off Kemar Roach. He was snapped up in the first slip.

Kohli started clipping Russell delightfully to midwicket fence off the eighth ball he received.

The next boundary was rather a streaky edge past slip off Sammy but he made it up with a delightful cover drive in the West Indian skipper’s fourth over.

Manoj for the first time looked comfortable in his short international career. A six off Sammy which hit the wooden roof of the club’s bar was a breathtaking shot. Just when he looked like geting into the groove, he edged one from Kieron Pollard straight to Carlton Baugh.

India now had the best batting passage of the innings as two best young batsmen put their wares out on display.

Both Kohli and Rohit looked to hit down the ground and picked up runs with ease as the 100 runs came up in the 22nd over.

Kohli was careful in his shot selection and hit fours off leg—spinner Anthony Martin and Russell in successive overs.

The former India colts skipper bisected a Martin delivery through the backward point region and then spanked Russell through covers.

He reached his half century in the 23rd over with a single off Martin having faced only 63 deliveries. He celebrated it with a cheeky steer for four off Lendl Simmons.

Rohit having settled into a nice groove at the other end, slammed returning Roach over midwicket for an effortless six in the 36th over.

However, Kohli dismissal led to a dramatic collapse.

India were to suffer another blow almost immediately when skipper Raina played an ill—advised lofted shot to be out in the deep off Pollard.

Rohit and Pathan were well and truly into a repair act when Sharma was cleaned up by Martin.

Russell struck twin blows in one over when he had Pathan (30) caught behind and Amit Mishra (0) bowled in his eighth over, the 46th of the innings.

Scorecard

India: S Dhawan c Sarwan b Roach 11, P Patel c Martin b Russell 6, V Kohli run out (Sarwan ) 94, M Tiwary c Baugh b Pollard 22, R Sharma b Martin 57, S Raina c Barath b Pollard 0, Y Pathan c Baugh b Russell 30, R Ashwin not out 8, A Mishra b Russell 0, V Kumar c Baugh b Roach 2, I Sharma b Russell 0

Extras (lb—1, w—19, nb—1) 21

Total (All out, 47.3 overs ) 251

Fall of wickets: 1—15, 2—21, 3—79, 4—189, 5—190, 6—225, 7—245, 8—246, 9—249

Bowling: Roach 10—0—52—2, Sammy 6—0—48—0, Russell 8.3—0—35—4, Pollard 8—0—39—2, Martin 10—1—39—1, Simmons 5—0—37—0.

Al-Qaeda's new chief, and its war within

2011-06-16T18:49:00.000-07:00

Ayman al-Zawahiri has been at the centre of a stormy debate over the jihadist movement's future.

“Liberating the Muslim nation” reads Knights under the Prophet's Banner, “confronting the enemies of Islam and launching a jihad against them, require a Muslim authority, established on a Muslim land, that raises the banner of jihad and rallies the Muslims around it”.

“Without achieving this goal, our actions will mean nothing more than mere and repeated disturbances.”

Four weeks after Ayman Muhammad Rabi al-Zawahiri published al-Qaeda's seminal manifesto online, the forces unleashed by the tragic events of 9/11 led to the disintegration of the state he hoped would spearhead a global Islamist revolution. Taliban-ruled Afghanistan disintegrated in the face of western military power. In the years since, al-Qaeda has re-emerged resurgent, building ever more powerful in the arc of states from Mali to Indonesia.

But the real goal remains elusive: and now, as al-Qaeda's newly-appointed chief, it will be al-Zawahiri's goal to see what might be done to secure it.

Faced with deep and little-understood dissent within his ranks, and a storm of events across the Middle-East which seem to have rendered irrelevant al-Qaeda's core belief that Islamist-led violence would alone spearhead change, his prospects appear bleak.

Born into a well-connected upper-middle class family from suburban Cairo, al-Zawahiri grew up in a scholarly milieu: he is said to have excelled as a student, been drawn to poetry, and hated organised sports, seeing them as “inhumane”.

He was drawn to the teachings of the Islamist ideologue Syed Qutb as a teenager, and joined the Muslim Brotherhood when he was just 14. Qutb, whose works Milestones and In the shade of the Quran are foundational texts for the global Islamist movement, was executed in 1966, for his alleged role in a plot to assassinate Egypt's President, Gamal Abdel Nasser. Al-Zawahiri, with four other schoolchildren, set up an underground cell to stage an Islamist revolution.

In the years that followed, al-Zawahiri would train as a doctor and specialise as a surgeon. He married Cairo university philosophy student Azza Nowari in 1978; their wedding, held at the Continental Hotel, attracted attention in the liberal Cairo of the times: men were segregated from women, photographers and musicians were kept away, and joking banter was discouraged.

But following the assassination of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat in 1981, al-Zawahiri was among hundreds arrested and tortured. Released after three years in prison, he fled the country, and began practising medicine in Saudi Arabia. There, he came into contact with Osama bin-Laden. He first travelled to visit bin Laden-funded jihad facilities in Pakistan in 1985, a relationship that would slowly mature until 2001, when the EIJ formally merged with al-Qaeda.

The two men became inseparable: the intellectual, serious al-Zawahiri providing the perfect foil to the enthusiastic but politically immature bin Laden. Both men helped plan 9/11; it was to be al-Qaeda's greatest moment: a spectacular gesture that would precipitate a civilisational cataclysm between Islam and the west and signal that the power of the United States was illusory.

Azza, al-Zawahiri's wife, and his youngest daughter Aisha would both die in November, 2001, pinned under the debris of an al-Qaeda guesthouse hit by American bombs in Afghanistan.

Al-Zawahiri himself would spend the rest of his life trying to clear away the wreckage from around al-Qaeda.

The schisms within

Now appointed commander of the organisation following the killing of his friend by United States special forces, al-Zawahiri also faces a war within. More than a few inside al-Qaeda are said to believe the job should have gone to Muhammad Ibrahim Makkawi, also known as Saif al-Adel: part of a small caucus of top al-Qaeda commanders, including Saeed al-Masri and Mahfouz Ould al-Walid, who are reputed to have opposed the 9/11 attacks, saying they would destroy the Islamist state in Afghanistan and thus retard the movement's progress. Ever since 2009, following the death of jihadist commander Muhammad Atef, Makkai has commanded al-Qaeda's military assets—which means al-Zawahiri will have to rely on his allies among the jihadist movement in Pakistan to exercise power, not the people who built the organisation. Part of the story about al-Qaeda's internal dissensions became public in 2009, when the jihad veteran Abdullah Muhammad Fazul published his memoirs online. Fazul, who joined the jihadist movement as a teenager in 1991, drew a sharp distinction between the jihadists grouped in what he called the “original al-Qaeda” and al-Zawahiri's Egyptian Jihad cadre.

For all practical purposes, he wrote, the original al-Qaeda jihadists saw al-Makkawi as their commander. Even though, he wrote, al-Zawahiri “is called the number two man in the organization, but we don't have firsts and seconds in Islam, all are equal before God, and in any case I have never once taken orders from [him]”

Last year, Nasser al-Bahri, bin Laden's bodyguard until the events of 9/11, published memoirs which included a similar unflattering assessment of al-Zawahiri. “Bin Laden,” he argued, “is a born leader.” But Zawahiri had “generated a great deal of reserve, sometimes very harsh criticism,” al-Bahri wrote. “I doubt he has sufficient authority for such a position, even with his well-known authoritarianism and his penchant for centralizing power in himself.”

Kuwaiti cleric-turned al-Qaeda operative Suleiman Abu Gaith — who won notoriety by appearing in a video broadcast on al-Jazeera weeks after 9/11, proclaiming that “the storm of the planes will not stop” — also last year published an online manifesto highly critical of bin Laden's leadership.

Ghaith lashed out at al-Qaeda for “taking decisions in haste which led to a big defeat.” The poor decision making, he said, was a consequence of bin Laden being “encircled by a bunch of advisers who do not qualify to give advice”— a reference, presumably, to al-Zawahiri. He was also critical of al-Zawahiri's politics, which had led to “isolation of yourself and the mujahideen from the mainstream Islamic movements and from the Muslim world.”

Zawahiri has repeatedly attempted to defend himself. In 2008, responding to such criticisms, he said his critics, by refusing to countenance the loss of innocent life in a contest between grossly asymmetric adversaries, were in effect advocating capitulation. The voices of Islamist critics of al-Qaeda appear to have been growing ever louder.

The new ideologues

Even as al-Zawahiri's military success will depend on the cooperation he musters from Pakistani jihadist groups, the outcome of these debates could lie in the hands of a new generation of jihadist ideologues who have proved adroit in using new media to spread their message.

Key among the new ideologues are Libyan-born Muhammad Hasan Abu Bakr, who has occupied centre-stage in al-Qaeda's media campaigns since he escaped from Kabul's Bagram prison in 2005. Known by the alias Yahya al-Libi, Abu Bakr has delivered several impassioned video sermons, drawing from Islamic juridical tradition to argue al-Qaeda's cause.

Jarret Brachman, a counter-terrorism expert and former Central Intelligence Agency analyst, said this of al-Libi: “He's a warrior. He's a poet. He's a scholar. He's a pundit. He's a military commander.”

Libyan-born Jamal Ibrahim Ishtaywi, from the war-torn city of Misrata, and Kuwaiti national Khalid bin Abd al-Rahman al-Husaynan, a former prayer leader employed by the country's ministry of religious endowments, have also acquired great visibility.

Perhaps best-known, though, is the Yemeni-American preacher Anwar al-Awlaki — the English speaking face of al-Qaeda, whose sermons and books have been translated into a dozen languages. Al-Awlaki's words inspired the actions of Umar Farooq Abdulmutallab, a Nigerian national who attempted to blow himself up on a transatlantic jet in 2009, as well as the United States military psychiatrist, Nidal Malik Hasan, who killed 13 when he opened fire inside a military base in Texas

Barack Obama authorised the assassination of al-Awlaki in April 2010, making him the first citizen of the United States to be placed on the Central Intelligence Agency's death-list.

In a recent article, researcher Christopher Anzalone argued that these “charismatic communicators will play an increasingly important role in ensuring the survival of the transnational jihadi trend in the aftermath of bin Laden's killing”.

But will Zawahiri and the al-Qaeda he helped build guide that new jihadist current? Cut off from the mainstream of the Islamist movement in the Middle-East, where parties like the Muslim Brotherhood are poised to acquire power through democratic means; battered by relentless United States military pressure; isolated from his own organisation's most influential minds, Zawahiri more likely than not has often contemplated the terrible strategic error of 9/11.

He may in time come to be seen as the figure who presided over the death of the old al-Qaeda — not the man who gave it birth again after bin Laden's death.

G-Mac delighted with start to US Open

2011-06-16T18:43:00.000-07:00

Graeme McDowell insisted he was delighted to kick off the defence of his US Open crown with a fine 70 at Congressional.

The Ulsterman produced a very consistent display with two birdies and just a single bogey to put himself amongst the early pacesetters.

"Very happy with the way I played today [Thursday]," he told Sky Sports. "I drove the ball beautifully which is a big key on this golf course - you've got to play it from the fairway to have a chance and I positioned the ball really well.
"I hung in there well and any greens I missed I scrambled well and the only bogey of the day was on one with a gap wedge in my hand out of the right bunker and I plugged it in the front bunker and made five there, but I really hung tough after that and gave myself.
"I gave myself a bunch of chances, I couldn't quite convert - it would have been nice to pick up one of those on 17 or 18 - but dream start and happy with it."
With nine straight pars on his back nine, McDowell produced just the kind of consistent, error-free golf required at a US Open and insists he is relishing the task in hand.
"You've only got to look at the scoreboard today [Thursday], no-one's going crazy, the pins were gentleish today but no-one's really gone that deep," he continued.
"Like I said you've got to drive it great to have a chance to score, but if you do that you can fire at a few pins.
"But as we know this golf course is going to get tougher and tougher and tougher so I'm really pleased with the way I controlled the ball today [Thursday] because I'll need to continue to do that this weekend.
"I feel really, really good this week. There's been a lot of talking about the past and I was really ready to get here and start moving towards the future again.
"It's been a great 12 months and I wouldn't change it for the world, but I'm happy to be here, hand the trophy back and start talking about what I want to achieve in the rest of my career."

Newey impressed by Vettel approach

2011-06-16T18:40:00.001-07:00

Red Bull design guru Adrian Newey believes Sebastian Vettel's level-headed attitude has been the key to his success.

Reigning Formula One world champion Vettel is currently romping away this year as the 23-year-old leads the standings by 60 points ahead of a chasing pack spearheaded by McLaren's Jenson Button.
Newey, who has spent virtually his entire career working in F1, has been left amazed by the cool approach adopted by Vettel for one so young.
"The very special thing with Sebastian is how mature he is at this age," said Newey on formula1.com.
"I've seen so often that when drivers suddenly rise from obscurity to incredible stardom and fame that it goes to their head.
"They lose ground and their head gets a bit too big. Sebastian is remarkably level headed.
"He is a very private man and isn't into the fame at all. He thinks a lot about what he does and rarely makes the same mistake twice, and he is very hard working.
"He is always in the paddock in the evening, speaking with his engineers, going through the data and reflecting on what he did in the car.
"I think that's one thing all great drivers have in common."
Newey, the most successful designer in F1 with seven titles to his name with Williams, McLaren and now Red Bull, concedes the pressure of striving to be the best does take its toll.
"It's a constant stress so it is simply the level I live on," added Newey.
"I find my biggest enemy is time. The job is very time consuming - and can be over consuming if you are not careful.

"To find enough time for the family - to have a life outside Formula One - I really have to snatch this time.
"Then when I find myself idle for an hour, I almost feel guilty about it because I am not doing something. So time is the biggest pressure.
"Of course, there is also the pressure to do well. If you are doing badly then you want to do well, and then when you do, you are under pressure to maintain it. It's the eternal circle."
Naturally for Newey, the pressure for this season is obvious as he said: "We have to win the championship - nothing less."

Chelsea, Arsenal appeal to Taarabt

2011-06-16T18:38:00.000-07:00

Adel Taarabt admits he could be tempted by a move to a big-four Premier League club such as Chelsea, but values playing regularly at QPR.

Taarabt was instrumental in Rangers' promotion to the top-flight last season, and was named Championship Player of the Year for his efforts.
His fine form has reportedly turned the heads of some of the country's biggest clubs, with Liverpool and Manchester United among those to be linked with the 22-year-old.
But while the Moroccan says he would like a move to a high-profile side, he admits he would prefer to play every game for Rangers than warm the bench at Chelsea.
He told Football365.fr: "I like the London clubs. I do not hide my liking for Chelsea.
"I would prefer to play regularly at QPR to being on the bench for a season at Chelsea. Now, if they told me I'd play 20 games per season, I think I'd be very tempted."
The midfielder, who scored 18 goals in 44 games for Rangers last season, also spoke about a move to Arsenal to link up with fellow Moroccan Marouane Chamakh.
"The idea is very appealing. Especially since there is also Samir Nasri, who I know very well," he added.
"But after that, there is a real possibility of playing the minimum."
Former Tottenham man Taarabt, who is contracted at Loftus Road until June 2013, claims clubs interested in his services have been in contact with QPR.
Asked if he would like a move to a big club in England, he replied: "It's currently what I'm trying to achieve. Today, I have a two-year contract with QPR.
"Yes, there is contact but I cannot say more, as you can imagine."

West Indies vs India 5th ODI | June 16, 2011, India in West Indies, 2011|Photo Gallery

2011-06-16T18:35:00.001-07:00

India in West Indies, 2011 5th Oneday International scorecard

2011-06-16T18:34:00.001-07:00

West Indies vs India, 5th ODI

Venue: Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica Toss: West Indies (Elect to field)

West Indies Innings		R	B	4s	6s	SR
L Simmons	c A Mishra & b V Kumar	6	16	0	0	37.5
A Barath	lbw A Mishra	17	46	1	0	36.96
R Sarwan	retired hurt	75	94	5	1	79.79
M Samuels	not out	28	25	3	0	112
D Bravo	st P Patel & b A Mishra	86	99	3	6	86.87
K Pollard	not out	24	13	3	1	184.62
C Baugh(wk)	dnb	0	0	0	0	0.00
D Sammy(c)	dnb	0	0	0	0	0.00
A Russell	dnb	0	0	0	0	0.00
K Roach	dnb	0	0	0	0	0.00
A Martin	dnb	0	0	0	0	0.00
Extras	b - 0, lb - 9, w - 9, nb - 1, Total - 19
Total: (255 for 3 in 48.4 overs)		255 (5.24 runs per over)

Fall of Wickets

1/12 (Lendl Simmons, 4.2 ov.), 2/53 (Adrian Barath, 15.2 ov.), 3/213 (Darren Bravo, 45.1 ov.)

Bowler	O	M	R	W	Econ
Vinay Kumar	9	2	46	1	5.11
Ishant Sharma	9.4	0	49	0	5.07
Amit Mishra	10	1	46	2	4.6
Ravichandran Ashwin	10	1	50	0	5
Suresh Raina(c)	6	0	35	0	5.83
Yusuf Pathan	1	0	7	0	7
Virat Kohli	3	0	13	0	4.33

Go to Top

India Innings		R	B	4s	6s	SR
S Dhawan	c R Sarwan & b K Roach	11	26	1	0	42.31
P Patel(wk)	c A Martin & b A Russell	6	11	0	0	54.55
V Kohli	runout (C Baugh)	94	104	10	0	90.38
M Tiwary	c C Baugh & b K Pollard	22	22	1	1	100
R Sharma	b A Martin	57	72	2	1	79.17
S Raina(c)	c A Barath & b K Pollard	0	4	0	0	0
Y Pathan	c C Baugh & b A Russell	30	29	2	1	103.45
R Ashwin	not out	8	7	1	0	114.29
A Mishra	b A Russell	0	1	0	0	0
V Kumar	c C Baugh & b K Roach	2	8	0	0	25
I Sharma	b A Russell	0	2	0	0	0
Extras	b - 0, lb - 1, w - 19, nb - 1, Total - 21
Total: (251 all out in 47.3 overs)		251 (5.28 runs per over)

Fall of Wickets

1/15 (Parthiv Patel, 3.4 ov.), 2/21 (Shikhar Dhawan, 6.6 ov.), 3/79 (Manoj Tiwary, 15.6 ov.), 4/189 (Virat Kohli, 36 ov.), 5/190 (Suresh Raina, 36.5 ov.), 6/225 (Rohit Sharma, 42.6 ov.), 7/245 (Yusuf Pathan, 45.2 ov.), 8/246 (Amit Mishra, 45.3 ov.), 9/249 (Vinay Kumar, 46.6 ov.), 10/251 (Ishant Sharma, 47.3 ov.)

Bowler	O	M	R	W	Econ
Kemar Roach	10	0	52	2	5.2
Darren Sammy(c)	6	0	48	0	8
Andre Russell	8.3	0	35	4	4.12
Kieron Pollard	8	0	39	2	4.88
Anthony Martin	10	1	39	1	3.9
Lendl Simmons	5	0	37	0	7.4

Umpires: Ian Gould (Eng) & Norman Malcolm (WI)

Third Umpire: Joel S Wilson (WI)

Match Referee: Jeff Crowe (NZ)

Akhtar chooses business over cricket

2011-06-16T18:12:00.001-07:00

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar said he will not participate in the Sri Lankan Premier League, since he wants to concentrate on his business.

"The issue is that I have started a business and it needs a lot of time from me. So I wouldn't be able to make it to Sri Lanka," Akhtar, who retired during the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, said.

The fast bowler from Rawalpindi also said that for the time being he has lost his appetite for the game because of his business interests.

The Sri Lankan Premier League (SPL), on the lines of the Indian Premier League, has attracted players from many countries including Pakistan's Shahid Afridi and Abdul Razzaq.

The first edition of the league, hosted by Sri Lanka's cricket Board, will be played from July 19 to August 4.

Akhtar has told his supporters that he is keen to get one final farewell match from Pakistan and his home association had also said it would support him.

But with no international team touring Pakistan, the PCB has also not responded positively to Akhtar's desire to play a farewell match.

Akhtar retired at the age of 35 during the 2011 ICC CWC, which also turned out to be a controversial tournament for him as he was fined and charged with quarreling with teammate Kamran Akmal over a dropped catch during the match against New Zealand.

Sreesanth to be fit for England tour

2011-06-16T18:09:00.000-07:00

Ruled out of the West Indies Test series due to an elbow injury, India pacer S Sreesanth is hoping to be fit for the England tour starting next month.

Sreesanth took time out from his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bangalore to visit the temple to pray to Lord Ayyappan.

"I hope I am fit before England series. I can't wait to swing the ball in England and win the series for India. I am preparing myself for the England series and am hoping for a strong comeback," he said.

Sreesanth would fancy a strong performance in England if he is selected in the Indian squad as he has played for Warwickshire county in 2009.

India play a four-match Test series against England starting on July 21, followed by a Twenty20 International and five ODIs.

Sreesanth rued missing out of the West Indies Test series, which begins on June 20.

"I surely miss West Indies, loved bowling there in 2006 when we won. I still remember getting Brian Lara out for a duck at Antigua," he concluded.

Windies end series with dignity

2011-06-16T18:07:00.000-07:00

West Indies finished off their ODI series against India in style with a thrilling seven-wicket victory at Sabina Park.

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After losing the first three ODIs, the Windies salvaged some pride with a 103-run win in Antigua on Monday and limited their series defeat to 3-2 today thanks to some inspired batting - first from Ramnaresh Sarwan and Darren Bravo and then Marlon Samuels and Kieron Pollard.

Having been set a challenging victory target of 252 - Virat Kohli contributed 94 and Rohit Sharma 57 but India lost their last seven wickets for just 63 runs - it did not look good for the hosts when openers Lendl Simmons (six) and Adrian Barath (17) departed early on.

But Sarwan and Bravo steadied the ship and kept the scoreboard ticking over nicely until the former retired hurt on 75 with his side 156 for two.

Sarwan, thought to be suffering from severe cramps, received treatment from the physio and had Simmons as a runner, but could not continue and headed back to the pavilion at the end of the 38th over.

Requiring a run-rate of eight per over for victory, Bravo made full use of his side's batting powerplays with a brilliant knock of 86 from 99 balls to take the game away from India.

His departure - stumped by Parthiv Patel off the bowling of Amit Mishra - left work to be done, though, at 213 for three in the 46th over.

But Samuels (28 not out off 25 balls) and Pollard (24 not out off 13 balls) were more than up to the task.

The duo pummelled Vinay Kumar for 20 runs in the 48th over to set up the triumph, with Pollard hitting the winning boundary in the following over to seal victory with eight balls to spare.

The tourists had earlier looked to be coasting on 188 for three in the 36th over, but ended up being dismissed for 251 in 47.3 overs.

Paceman Andre Russell - later named man of the match - was the pick of the Windies' bowlers with four for 35 from 8.3 overs, with Kemar Roach and Pollard claiming two wickets apiece.

India got off to shaky start as openers Patel (six) and Shikhar Dhawan (11) perished within the first seven overs.

Manoj Tiwary then made a brisk run-a-ball 22 before falling to Pollard, which brought Kohli and Sharma together in the middle.

The pair got India back on course with an assured 110-run fourth-wicket partnership but there was to be no century for Kohli, who was run out trying to come back for a second run following an accurate throw from Sarwan at deep square leg.

Captain Suresh Raina became Pollard's second victim in the following over without having troubled the scorers, which prompted the arrival of Yusuf Pathan.

Sharma was next to go, bowled by Anthony Martin, and, although Pathan made a quickfire 30 from 29 deliveries, the contribution of the India tail was negligible as Amit Mishra, Vinay Kumar and Ishant Sharma managed just two runs between them. Ravichandran Ashwin finished unbeaten on eight.

Kajal’s mouth watering shape

2011-06-16T11:29:00.000-07:00

Heroine Kajal has been getting string of opportunities on the Telugu screen after her astounding hit ‘Magadheera’ with hero Ramcharan Teja. After she became the number one heroine in Telugu, she appears to be taking extra care in maintaining her shape. Even in her early film ‘Chandamama,’ she has generated heat among the youngsters with her voluptuous body in damp clothes. There is a vast difference in Kajal’s shape before and after ‘Maga Dheera.’

There used to be some minor flaws in her shape before that film. Now after her success, she is said to have gone to the experts and ensured that the body shapes were as they should be. It is perhaps because of this perfection in her anatomy that all the heroes are vying with one another to book her in their films. Kajal now wants to prove her strong points in the Bollywood also with this new shape.

Latest photos of Kajal are maddening her fans. The saree she wore, leaving few inches of gap above and below her navel were superb, fans say. She has displayed her shape in a manner not too much and not too little either

Aunty is in mood to show again!

2011-06-16T11:26:00.000-07:00

Sindu Menon has got good name and recognition with her performance as one of the heroines in ’Chandamama.’ She earned kudos by also dubbing her dialogues in the film. She has acted as heroine and in small characters in several films after that.

Sindu got married then and said she would concentrate more on her marriage and her family. She did not forget to mention that she would think of films once her family life was settled. True to her word, she has stopped acting in films for a while and concentrated on her family life. Now, she says she is ready for the second innings.

Sindu once again started her career with the recent film ‘Vaishali.’ However as this was a very sensitive character and by doing such characters she would get only similar characters, Sindu is believed to be telling the producers and directors who come to her that she was willing to act in hot and sexy roles.

Alas, what a dream! Even the young heroines are not getting enough opportunities these days. Who would watch this married aunty even if she acts in a red hot character? Let us wait and see what she would do next as she is back in the mood to do spicy things on screen

Glenn McGrath, wife Sara slam second wedding claims

2011-06-16T11:23:00.000-07:00

Former Australian cricketer Glenn McGrath and wife Sara have lashed out at a women’s magazine, which claimed that the couple are planning a second wedding in Italy.

They have branded the cover of ‘New Idea’ featuring the couple as ‘tacky’.

After rubbishing the ‘exclusive’ unauthorised cover story, the couple took to their Twitter accounts to separately highlight the deception, reports the Daily Telegraph.

The cover image shows Sara, in a white dress, standing against a bougainvillea-covered wall under the headline "Glenn and Sara Exclusive: Our Big Fat Italian Wedding!"

Within hours, the couple were calling the story - which states that their November wedding in Sydney was necessary to ‘speed up Sara''s paperwork for immigration’ – ‘rubbish’ and ‘crap’.

McGrath was amazed, tweeting: "The stuff they write in women''s magazines.......?!! Where do they get it from ?????" before saying there was only one accurate detail in the story.

"Though they did get one thing right!! Sara''s dad got me a Ducati. That''s why I''m getting my motorbike licence."

The article claimed that a traditional Catholic wedding ceremony would take place at the height of the European summer in a picturesque village an hour south of Rome.

"What a load of rubbish? Who writes this crap !!!" Sara responded.

"What the heck is a satin purse called a borsa that brides wear??? Never heard of it!!! I love the photoshop job on the cover totally changed my dress colour!! And the tarantella how tacky!!!"

India all out for 251 against West Indies

2011-06-16T11:19:00.000-07:00

Virat Kohli scored 94 as India were all out for 251 in 47.3 overs in the fifth and final ODI against the West Indies at Sabina Park, here today.

Apart from Kohli, Rohit Sharma scored 57 as Andre Russell took four for 35.

Brief Scores: India 251 all out in 47.3 overs (Virat Kohli 94, Rohit Sharma 57, Andre Russell 4/35) vs West Indies.

No two drafts on Lokpal Bill: Moily

2011-06-16T11:13:00.000-07:00

The government on Thursday ruled out sending two drafts of Lokpal Bill to the Union Cabinet in the wake of strong differences with the civil society which it accused of “obstructing” the fight against corruption.

Addressing a press conference here, Law Minister Veerappa Moily, who is also the convener of the joint Lokpal drafting committee, said if the representatives from both the sides fail to iron out differences during the next meeting on June 20, then their respective views would be sent to the Cabinet.

“But there will be no two drafts,” he said, contradicting civil society representative Arvind Kejriwal’s statement on Wednesday that two separate drafts -- one prepared by the Government representatives and the other by civil society members -- would be sent to the Cabinet.

Changing demands

Accusing the civil society representatives of “changing their demands”, Mr. Moily said “it will not help. We have to confine ourselves to the mandate of a joint drafting committee.”

He said the government has agreed to 34 out of 40 principles laid down by the civil society for a strong Lokpal Bill.

Mr. Moily also said that there is no final word yet on the inclusion of the Prime Minister in the anti-corruption legislation.

The Minister said while the UPA was committed to storm out corruption, the BJP and members of the civil society were trying to obstruct its effort.

“My intention is not to hurt sentiments of people including both from the civil society and the BJP. They are obstructing UPA’s war against corruption,” he said.

Mr. Moily said claims of some members of the civil society of differences in large areas “falls flat on ground as out of 40 principles laid down by the civil society, we have convergence on 34.”

He said the Joint Drafting Committee has been mandated with preparing a legislation and not amending the Constitution.

“We had asked the members (of the civil society) whether they wanted to amend the Constitution. They said they wanted a legislation...only one member supported a constitutional amendment,” Mr. Moily said.

Judiciary's inclusison

He claimed that the committee cannot suggest issues like inclusion of judiciary, conduct of Members of Parliament inside Parliament and summary dismissal of government servants which entailed constitutional amendments.

These issues, and the inclusion of the Prime Minister under the ambit of Lokpal are the key issues on which the government and the civil society continue to have differences.

To a question on the threat of Gandhian Anna Hazare to go on a fast again, Mr. Moily said: “Nobody can prevent anybody in a democratic country to go on a fast. But for what?

“For government having agreed to form a joint committee (on Lokpal), government having agreed to having a dialogue (with the civil society). That means he appears to be predetermined to go on a fast despite this...That is not democratic reflection on democratic expression on the part of the citizen of this country.”

No transparency

Mr. Moily also indicated a lack of transparency on part of the Hazare-led civil society in seeking public opinion on Lokpal Bill.

“After every meeting they go out on campaign to get views of others...The civil society members produce something out of their pocket. On the other hand we (government) have put agenda and other related documents on our website,” he said.

Asserting that government was in favour of finalising the draft bill by June 30, he said it was the “genuine and honest intention” to introduce the bill in the Monsoon session of Parliament. “We have not changed our mind,” he said seeking Hazare camp’s “cooperation“.

He said the draft bill has to be referred to various ministries for consultation before it comes up before the Cabinet. In Parliament, after introduction, the bill has to go to the Standing Committee for further scrutiny, he said.

Govt. tells Hazare it will not succumb to threats

2011-06-16T11:08:00.000-07:00

Anna Hazare on Thursday threatened to go on hunger strike from August 16 alleging “backtracking” on Lokpal bill but the government refused to yield, saying it cannot allow creation of a “parallel” structure.

Amidst hardening of positions by both sides, the government made it clear that it would come out with a “strong and sound” draft of Lokpal bill by June 30 irrespective of whether civil society activists cooperate.

A day after talks in the joint drafting committee on Lokpal Bill got deadlocked, Mr. Hazare accused the government of having no intention to enact a strong anti—corruption law and that it had “backtracked” on the promises that it will agree to all the suggestions forwarded by the civil society members.

Mr. Hazare, whose hunger strike in April had evoked nationwide response which rattled the government, said he will undertake an indefinite fast from August 16 if a diluted legislation is brought.

Shortly after press conference by Mr. Hazare and his team, ministers in the drafting committee P.Chidambaram, Kapil Sibal and Salman Khurshid hit back at the civil society, making it clear that the government will not succumb to threats.

“You cannot threaten and negotiate at the same time...This is not the way forward...The government is not going to get diverted by abuses and slander,” HRD Minister Sibal said at a press conference.

Home Minister Chidambaram said, “I don’t think anywhere in the world, fasting is the way to draft a bill.”

He asserted that many of the demands of the Hazare team cannot be accepted because a structure parallel to the government cannot be allowed.

IOC keen to stamp out illegal betting

2011-06-15T19:36:00.000-07:00

The International Olympic Committee are stepping up the drive against illegal betting.

A meeting of sports chiefs, government ministers, Interpol and the United Nations on Wednesday led to a decision to form three groups of experts to develop ways of combating the practice.
Sports and Olympics minister Hugh Robertson was among those taking part in the meeting in Lausanne.
IOC president Jacques Rogge said: "We foresee increased co-operation in the monitoring and co-ordination of the fight against illegal and irregular betting in sport.
"Today saw our first proactive steps toward that goal and an increased level of commitment in our joint fight against this threat to sport."
The experts will split into three groups looking at: education programmes and a possible code of conduct; monitoring of and intelligence about illegal betting; legislation and regulations to toughen up laws and rules.

Shinnecock Hills to host 2018 US Open

2011-06-15T19:34:00.000-07:00

Shinnecock Hills, the course which caused so much controversy the last time the US Open was held there seven years ago, will stage the event again in 2018.

"We are thrilled that our national championship will return to one of our country's most-storied venues," said United States Golf Association president Jim Hyler on Wednesday.

"We are confident that Shinnecock Hills will provide a true challenge for the world's premier players, as it has for more than a century."
Retief Goosen won in 2004, but only after play in the final round had to be suspended after the seventh green became virtually unplayable.
After three of the first four players on the 189-yard par three hole had taken triple bogeys and the other a miraculous bogey the action was halted so that hoses could be used to soften the surface.
Officials stood accused of waiting far too long before taking action. Of the first 34 players to finish 16 failed to break 80.
Tiger Woods shot 76 for 17th place on 10 over par and said: 'It's terrible in our national championship that they lost control of the course. They just lost it - it got away from them."
The 2018 championship will be the fifth US Open on the New York Long Island lay-out. James Foulis won in 1896, Roy Floyd in 1986 and then Corey Pavin in 1995.
Next year the tournament returns to the Olympic Club in San Francisco, then it visits Merion, Pinehurst, Chambers Bay and Oakmont.

Serena sees the positives in defeat

2011-06-15T19:32:00.000-07:00

Serena Williams believes launching her comeback at Eastbourne could pay off at Wimbledon despite her second-round defeat.

The American lost in three sets to top seed Vera Zvonareva at the AEGON International, with the Russian gaining some revenge for her defeat to Williams in the Wimbledon final last year.
Returning to action after a foot injury caused by broken glass, and a blood clot which Williams says was life-threatening, the 29-year-old began with a victory over Bulgaria's Tsvetana Pironkova.
But she came up just short against Zvonareva, being broken as she served for the match at 6-3 5-4, and going on to lose the set in a tie-break.
The tables were turned as the American saved three match points with Zvonareva serving for victory at 5-4 in the third set.
It proved to be a temporary reprieve though, as Zvonareva broke again and served out to love for a 3-6 7-6 (7/5) 7-5 victory.
Williams, who was playing her first tournament since last year's Wimbledon, said: "One or two points [different], I could have won the match. So it's not overly disappointing. It's just the fact I just kept missing short balls.
"It was a good two matches for me. I couldn't be happier with the amount of tennis that I've played. Every time I come here [to Eastbourne] I enjoy it. I think it's a beautiful city on the water."
Williams' sister Venus did reach the quarter-finals as she powered past Ana Ivanovic.
In her first tournament following a five-month absence, the five-time former Wimbledon champion hammered Ivanovic 6-3 6-2 to reach the quarter-finals.
"I felt good to be able to get on top of her today," Venus Williams said on lta.org.uk.
"Today was great, no breaks of serve, that's ideal for me in the match. I was really happy to have those clean service games and not a lot of errors."
Home interest in the women's draw was ended as British number one Elena Baltacha suffered a straight-sets defeat to third seed Victoria Azarenka, 6-1 7-6 (7/0).
Nevertheless Baltacha, who won last week's AEGON Nottingham Challenge, said: "I couldn't ask for better preparation, winning last week and playing someone in the top five going into Wimbledon.
"I'm very happy right now with everything. I think I'm in great form."
Second seed Li Na - the French Open champion - was beaten by Slovakian Daniela Hantuchova 7-6(9/7) 6-3.
Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland dumped out fourth seed Francesca Schiavone of Italy - the French Open runner-up - by an emphatic 6-3 6-2 scoreline.
Fifth seed Petra Kvitova needed two tie-breaks to get past Russia's Elena Makarova in straight sets, the Czech prevailing 7-6 (10/8) 7-6 (7/4).
Marion Bartoli, the tournament's sixth seed, also progressed with a 6-3 6-3 victory over Maria Jose Martinez Sanchez while Australian Samantha Stosur beat Bojana Jovanovski of Serbia 6-3 6-2.

Radek Stepanek produced the surprise of the men's draw as he beat top seed and beaten Queen's Club finalist Jo-Wilfred Tsonga 6-2 6-3.
British men's number two James Ward, who lost to Tsonga in the semi-finals at Queen's, could not repeat those heroics as he exited in the first round to third seed Janko Tipsarevic, 6-3 4-6 6-2.
Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria produced a second-round upset to beat South African sixth seed Kevin Anderson 6-3 6-2 and Italy's Andreas Seppi eased past American qualifier Donald Young 7-6 (7/1) 6-3.
Lucky loser Illya Marchenko was also eliminated, the Ukrainian - who had replaced absent eighth seed Philipp Kohlschreiber - losing 6-3 1-6 6-2 to Russia's Igor Kunitsyn.
Julien Benneteau of France needed three sets to beat India's Somdev Devvarman, eventually winning 7-6(7/1) 6-7(10/8) 6-3.
Kei Nishikori was 3-2 up against Germany's Rainer Schuettler before the rain hit and Olivier Rochus' match against Carlos Berlocq was also stopped with the score at 3-6 7-6(7/5) 1-1.

2011 Formula One calendar set in place

2011-06-15T19:30:00.000-07:00

A new Formula One calendar for this season has been ratified on Wednesday following the recent furore surrounding the Bahrain Grand Prix.

The race in Bahrain became an off-on-off affair that was finally shelved last week as tensions grew surrounding its reinstatement after a meeting of the World Motor Sport Council in Barcelona on June 3.

By way of a formality, the WMSC opted for a fax vote regarding the clarification of the calendar, with a deadline of noon yesterday for the 26 members to register their decision.

The FIA has confirmed the vote was unanimous, which means the inaugural Indian Grand Prix will definitely take place on October 30.

Schedule of remaining races:

Jun 26 European (Valencia Street Circuit)

Jul 7 British (Silverstone)

Jul 24 German (Nurburgring)

Jul 31 Hungarian (Hungaroring, Budapest)

Aug 28 Belgian (Spa-Francorchamps)

Sep 11 Italian (Monza)

Sep 25 Singapore (Marina Bay Street Circuit)

Oct 9 Japanese (Suzuka)

Oct 16 Korean (Yeongam)

Oct 30 Indian (Greater Noida)

Nov 13 Abu Dhabi (Yas Marina)

Nov 27 Brazilian (Interlagos)

Scholes: United face end of an era

2011-06-15T19:28:00.000-07:00

Paul Scholes admits his retirement marks the end of an era at Manchester United.

The midfielder along with defender Gary Neville announced an end to a glittering career at Old Trafford last season, leaving Ryan Giggs as the only one left from manager Sir Alex Ferguson's famous 'Fledglings.'

"It's definitely ending. Phil Neville and Nicky Butt left a while ago while Gary is finishing this year," Scholes told the Sun.

"Becks went a while ago, so it's coming to an end. Nothing can go on for ever.

"But there's still Ryan and plenty of other homegrown players at the club."

Scholes has now joined United's coaching staff and wasted no time in challenging the new generation to reach the heights of their Champions League conquerors Barcelona.

"It's nice to go out having won a 19th title. I thought it would be nice to go out by winning the league or the Champions League," he said.

"I managed to get one. But, against Barca, that makes you think, that's the level you need to get to.

"It will give the manager and players the determination to know that is the level you have to be at to be the best in Europe."

A member of the famed 'Class of 92', Scholes made his debut in 1994, going on to make an incredible 676 appearances, the last of which came as a substitute in United's Champions League final defeat to Barca.

He won 10 Premier League titles and, after missing the 1999 Champions League final through suspension, was part of the team that conquered Europe in 2008.

A testimonial match for Scholes will take place on 5 August.

West Indies vs India, 5th ODI: Preview

2011-06-15T19:19:00.000-07:00

India would aim to get the crucial psychological edge over the Windies before the Test series when they take on the hosts in the fifth ODI on Thursday.

The ODI series is already in their pocket as the Indians have taken a 3-1 lead but they would try and ensure that the scoreline suggests domination by signing off 4-1.

Berths in the eleven for the first Test match, scheduled to start next Monday, are up for grabs and those certain would aim to fall in a groove while those still on the edge would look to leave a definite impression on the team management.

There are at least two batsmen and the fast-bowling combination which needs to be sorted out ahead of the Test series.

India needs two middle-order batsmen for the first Test.

So, there is an added incentive for Virat Kohli and Suresh Raina, almost certainties, to familiarise themselves with the venue.

The pitch at Sabina Park is expected to have pace and bounce and it would do a world of good to Kohli and Raina if they are able to spend some profitable time in the middle.

Both have had at least one notable innings in the series but their runs and averages so far-- 105 for Kohli at 26.25 and 82 for Raina at 27.33-- aren't very impressive.

The only contender for a berth in the middle order, Subramaniam Badrinath, is way too behind in the race having made a mere 40 runs at 13.33 from four games and looking distinctly uncomfortable against short-pitched deliveries of Andre Russell in the fourth game on Monday.
The biggest beneficiary has been leg-spinner Amit Mishra with nine wickets at 17 apiece from four games.

He could revise the trend of going into a Test abroad with just one spinner. The West Indian batsmen have found him more than a handful in one-dayers and he could be an even bigger force in Tests given that he would have an attacking field to support him.

Mishra is likely to be retained in the fifth one-dayer even though he went for a few in the fourth game on Monday.

The team management would like to have a closer look at him on a pitch which is more suited to a fast bowler.

India would almost certainly go with two spinners in the final game and that leaves just two places for medium pacers.

On the face of it, Munaf Patel is almost a certainty for the Tests and that leaves Praveen Kumar and Ishant Sharma to battle it out for the second slot.

Praveen is yet to play a Test for India so he would not be short of motivation.

West Indies would be encouraged by their consolation win in the fourth game. A couple of young men, Andre Russell and Anthony Martin, have shown the way forward with their spirit and belief but with Chris Gayle once again ignored, batting looks brittle.

But the good news is that fit-again opener Adrian Barath made his way in, replacing a not-too-impressive Kirk Edwards in the squad which beat India by 103 runs in the fourth one-dayer.

Besides Barath, Ravi Rampaul also returned to the side after a brief rest to replace Danza Hyatt.

The 21-year-old Barath was undergoing rehabilitation after suffering a hamstring injury which forced him out of the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup.

West Indies also finally have their wish for a hard and bouncy pitch answered in Sabina Park. They would love to carry the momentum forward into the game and in the Test series beyond.

Opener Lendl Simmons has been a positive influence and Kieron Pollard is showing signs of asserting himself in the middle.

The lower order has definitely shown signs of resurgence.

If only the top order can look to tackle spinners, build stands and not give up then this West Indian side could still run the world champions close.

Squads:

India: Suresh Raina (capt), R Ashwin, S Badrinath, Harbhajan Singh (vc), Virat Kohli, Praveen Kumar, Amit Mishra, Munaf Patel, Parthiv Patel (wk), Yusuf Pathan, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Ishant Sharma, Rohit Sharma, Vinay Kumar, Manoj Tiwary, Shikhar Dhawan.

West Indies: Darren Sammy (capt), Carlton Baugh (wk), Devendra Bishoo, Darren Bravo, Adrian Barath, Ravi Rampaul, Anthony Martin, Kieron Pollard, Kemar Roach, Andre Russell, Marlon Samuels, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Lendl Simmons.
India vs. West Indies ODIs at Sabina Park, Kingston

Date               Toss             Scores                               Won by/MOM

18.5.2006 India             WI 251/6 (45)                    India - 5 wickets
                                              Ind.254/5 (44.5)                 Rahul Dravid (India) 105

20.5.2006       India             WI 198/9 (50)                    WI    - 1 run
                                              Ind.197   (49.4)                  RR Sarwan (WI)98 not out

26.6.2009       India             WI 339/6 (50)                    India - 20 runs
                                              Ind.319   (48.1)                  Yuvraj Singh (I) 131

28.6.2009       India             Ind.188   (48.2)                  WI    - 8 wickets
                                              WI 192/2 (34.1)                Ravi Rampaul(WI) 85 n.o.
Approaching milestones

- Rohit Sharma (200) needs 38 runs to become the top run-getter for India against West Indies in the Caribbean. Virender Sehwag had made 237 at an average of 47.40 in five matches in 2006.

- Parthiv Patel, with ten dismissals in four ODIs, needs just one catch/stumping to establish an Indian record. He would be the first Indian wicketkeeper to effect eleven dismissals in a bilateral series.

- Amit Mishra (9 at 17.00 inf our matches) is all set to overtake Ajit Agarkar's tally of 9 (ave.18.11) in five matches against West Indies in West Indies in 2006. Mishra is likely to become the first Indian bowler to take ten wickets in a bilateral series against West Indies in West Indies.