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10 shares dividend

In the middle of broader economic pessimism, fund managers say that this information shows that many British companies are in rude health. Clive Beagles, J O Hambro equity income Manager, said: "Us remain optimistic that this trend will continue."

Start-ups or recover payments of dividends to shareholders are three to those that cut or cancelled their dividends.

But not all income equity managers are also optimistic. Bill Mott, income veteran who now leads income Psigma Manager "quite prudent" rest on the Outlook for UK companies.

"I think we are pretty anemic growth years."Corporations best placed to dividends shall be stable and predictable companies who do not have to spend lots of money, maintain or increasing their position on the market, "he says it said that these tend to be companies that are already in the arena of dividend such as pharmaceuticals, telecoms, tobacco companies, and utility."

But the two fund managers agree that investors smart there were significant dividends for these pillars établis.Voici a growth opportunities list different dividend fund managers at business growth over the next few years.

Of course, those who do not venture to invest in individual stocks should consider income fund equity invests in a broad basket of companies that have the potential to pay a good dividend stream.

Mr. beagles said that this high street retailer has certainly had its problems.It has ceased to pay dividends two years ago, but since then has succeeded in reducing the debt that it carries out by about two-thirds.

On the back of the most optimistic addresses statements that he expressed optimism that payments should resume next year."If it paid only a third of its earnings, it would mean a 9 to 10 p.Sur share the current price which represent a yield of about 4 5pc dividend,", he said.""

This is another smaller company than Mr. Beagles said dividend growth potential.Company, purchased Princess P & O at the beginning of the previous decade, control on the market of the croisière.Il 60pc has developed in the last decade, but even two years ago it cut its dividend juste retour customer demand fell in the wake of the financial crisis.It is now paying a small dividend but it is only a quarter of what it had paid until payment has been reduced.

Mr. beagles said: "the company has spent less on new ships, and demand is increasing once again, so its cash position improved.""We would expect to see this definition to a growing stream of dividend again."

Investors should keep in mind that that this company has a double list in Britain and America, the dividends are paid in cents.

Most analysts expect the oil giant to restore its dividends in 2011. The question is, what niveau.Tineke Frikkee, Newton Investment Fund Manager said: "" optimists could hope that payments will resume at its previous level, on US 14 c per quarter, while the more pessimistic than commentators believe shareholders will be lucky to get half that. ""

Ms. Frikkee she sat "somewhere between the two" and expects a dividend payment of c 9 and 10 (c) the year prochaine.Cependant, although it will show a big jump in dividends, yields no are not higher than other companies.

She added that the pound to dollar exchange rate fluctuations could affect returns for British investors.

Mr. Mott says those looking good and consistent growth dividends should consider these alimentation.Les yields retailers currently vary slightly below 3pc a little more 4pc."Each of these are good defensive businesses", he said.

"And are looking to expand in various ways, both United Kingdom, thanks to our population growth and abroad it said:"they are generative businesses in cash, with a good dividend growth potential but they remain a low-risk investment especially when economic conditions deteriorate"."

The company pay is also favoured by Mr. Mott for future dividend growth.He said: "they have a very good Chief Executive Charles Wilson, who transformed the company to have a massive debt virtually no debt at all the".

The company is involved in a start-up in India Company, but also its UK.Il base stable cash flow added: "this company has the potential to increase its revenues and its dividendes.Et pricing actions today that performance seems to be interesting."

Several life, like other financial corporations, insurers reduced their dividends at the beginning of the crisis of credit, but many are now increasing these payments once again at the rear of the good growth.

Legal & General, for example, half its dividends at the end of 2008, nearly 6 percent to 3 p.Son last dividend was up 30pc. "But even with this increase is still considerable scope for further rises reach their previous levels, said Mr. Beagles.Autres life insurers is also cutting of dividends: Aviva, for example, has recently increased its dividend 10pc-15pc.

Industrial services company (who is involved in security and maintenance of the platforms, among other things) has not paid a dividend of 10 ans.Cela was largely due to carrying large debts and having a significant historical asbestos liability.

But the company has succeeded in reducing its debt and made provision for outstanding claims payable asbestos. Beagle said: "we expect this company to begin to behave as it should have been in the last decade as a 400 m £ well run on a reasonable price for the ratio of compensation trades".

Analysts expect HSBC is the Bank that provides the greatest growth dividend 2011.Mme Frikkee said: "Investors must still remember that it is paid in dollars."

Improves the balance sheets of banks, review of policy and regulatory interfere with their ability to resume dividend yields observed that seeking long-term, Lloyd said Frikkee passé.Mme's Banking Group has reviewed chances to provide a stable and consistent dividend stream but is unlikely to begin to pay the shareholders in the following year.

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Blue-chips slide as minors strike benefits

Miners suffered profits taken once executed a strong with Anglo American, BHP Billiton and natural resources of the Corporation lose 19½ 906 p, 56 percent to £ 21.96½ and 52 percent to £ 29.30 respectively.

Insurers were also favour after Bank of America Merrill Lynch downgraded its ratings on four companies in the sector, primarily citing reasons for evaluation.The broker reduces legal & General position of "buy" to "neutral", in the wake of doing well in the latest mois.Juridique & general actions fell 1.3 101½p.

Standard Life and Old Mutual "neutral" from "buy", also cut analysts by reducing its price target to 160 p 155 p but leaving the target unchanged old price 250 p.Standard Life declined by 0.7 percent 226.3 and Old Mutual dropped 3.3 1 p. Aviva, cut to "underperform" from "neutral", lost 1.2 percent 399.6.

Negative sense extended to banks, where the concerns of the own funds requirements persisted.Lost Barclays 4 p 277.35 and Standard Chartered throw 16½ £ 17.89½.

On a positive note, exploiting that Carnival cruise plot an increase of 114% to £ 27.68 upwards the leader board as counterpart listed U.S., Royal Caribbean Cruises, raised its expected benefit.

Reckitt Benckiser is are strengthened to 18 per cent to £ 34.36 after winning the conditional end EU regulatory approval Monday to buy SSL, the manufacturer of the Durex condoms and sandals Scholl.Goldman Sachs raised its rating "buy" to "neutral", adding to their list of purchase "belief" Reckitt

"The acquisition of SSL channels double us our earnings by share forecast for Reckitt Benckiser for the next five years, growth of 5mC 10pc," said analystes.Le broker added that the acquisition has also increased exposure of Reckitt growth and margin and health care personal higher classes.

However, consumer peer Reckitt, Unilever, came under pressure, falling from 44% to £ 18.12 after a cautious note of Jefferies Cup parsley manufacturer to "hold" to "buy" ahead of a trading update third quarter on 4 November."With winds, declining economies and continuous price relatively low entry-level price we cut our assumptions of average EBITDA margin basis points 45 per year," said the broker, reduce its price target for Unilever £ 20.50 of £ 20.82.

Cairn Energy, ARM Holdings was vying for the dubious honour lead league table of the losers of the.The manufacturer of the chip has lost 23 366.2% after its third-quarter results were eclipsed by a warning from one of its customers who might be weakening of the demande.Pesant on cairn, lost 29½ 382½p take the wooden spoon is a new it put an end to the drilling of a well in Greenland.

Would include stocks of oil AIM, hangar Valiant Petroleum 140 p - or 18 7pc - 610 p after saying abandon his exploration of Northern Viola as well as the dry hole.But Oriel retained their "buy" rating securities analysts"North Viola was a target high-impact and actions benefited by executing the résultat.Ils prediction will obviously take on the announcement, but must be supported by the fundamental value of Don fields continue to be very cash generative, said broker."

Desire petroleum lost investors 66¾p 4¼ ropes on the prospects for his "Rachel" despite the company saying that drilling progresses towards its depth expected.

FTSE 250 mid-cap - index that yesterday the retardataires.Il throw points 37.42 10940.72 - Fidessa lead has slipped p 138 to £ 15.84 after warning that some companies have been delay spending decisions, prompting dealers reduce their ratings on commercial software company.

Numis Securities Fidessa problem to "hold" to "buy" and KBC Peel Hunt analysts also reduced their rating. "We are a buyer long-term Fidessa, but go to a commercial sale on repeated orientation and recent actions rises, said the broker.

Other grouped stocks were also affected by broker downgrades.Regus dropped 3.05 p 83.1 after Panmure Gordon downgraded to "hold" to "buy".WS Atkins has come under pressure falling 17½ % 775 after RBS downgraded to "hold" to "buy", engineering consultancy citing concerns about the impact of global spending on public sector business revenues review too.

But having a better day was Brit Insurance reaches 24 p £ 10 h 45 after accepted a formal offer to companies Apollo Management buyout and CVC Capital Partners.

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LSE Chief said London aim at risk "jealous" European market

Xavier Rolet said it was vital for the British convince Europeans that their capitals would not benefit from a reduction in importance of London as a financial centre continental.

Xavier Rolet stated in the Commission of the Treasury as "unique" of Alternative Investment Market London (AIM) to raise funds for small businesses and fierce needed jobs against Europeans.

First banker of Lehman Brothers said that there was "rivalry" between London and other European capitals, adding that European regulators "does not include" goal success.

"London has succeeded to wire the decades and grown into a prominent centre," said Mr. Rolet. "I don't know if the Europeans hold a grudge, but I can tell you that some people see an opportunity through the process of regulatory harmonisation greenhouse return some business".

Mr. Rolet said it was vital for the British convince Europeans that their capitals would not benefit from a reduction in importance of London as a financial centre continental."If regulations are introduced that cause traders and companies leave London, which is unlikely to migrate to Paris, Frankfurt, Milan,", he said. "He will go to Asia and elsewhere.»

He told MEPs proposals for the financial restructuring of the British Columbia Colombia Government threatened to vulnerable AIM market.

Rather that divide the responsibilities of the authority list UK (UKLA) between the Bank of England, the financial reporting Council (FRC), the protection of consumers and markets (CPMA), M. Rolet argued that it must remain intact in the CPMA .essentiellement CPMA is set on the United Kingdom voice on the new super regulator of Europe, Mr. Rolet supports should also speak directly to the UKLA.

Baroness Hogg, the pattern of the RHS has previously disagree with Mr. Rolet.Mais testify to the after him, she admitted that regulatory plans were "sub-optimal."

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Talk of the town: Permira rumour is supported for BinckBank approach

Today, reports suggest that London broker Evolution and ING are preparing bids for BinkBank.

However, market sources informed of said sites are not necessarily corriger.Le speech is BinckBank has already received an offer of Permira based in London at €14.5 a share.

Council, however, is supposed to have pushed the advances of Permira and has hired an investment bank to look at "strategic options".the move could lead to a sale by auction, market sources.

BinckBank refused to comment.

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QE2 concerns weigh on FTSE 100 shares

Kazakhmys, Vedanta Resources and Xstrata fell 70% £ 13.21, 103 p £ 20.66 and 50½p to £ 12.64 respectively.

Fall miners came despite a note of the overall strategy of equity Credit Switzerland which mining "overweight" to "reference".

Analysts said they expected a second set of easing quantitative to assist commodity and said China was "passing.""We expect growth of 9-10pc next year, with growth of 8.8pc.Malgré investment acceleration of the growth in wages, inflation near term seems maîtrisable.Cuivre import and steel demand could accelerate the growth of recent lows", added the broker.

Weakening of minors has helped drag FTSE 100 lower points 61.28 5646.02 - end the lowest since October 5 - a day when GlaxoSmithKline and Whitbread ex-dividende knock 3.31 points off the coast of the index.

Join the laggards was Kingfisher, owner of B & Q, slipped 237.1(5)(a) p 8.4.

Wednesday, clarify Chief Executive what ian Cheshire said in an interview at the World Congress announcement last week on expenditure cuts retail customers, but adds "the first six months of next year will be very difficult".Cependant, he said that there in the second half of the year and in 2012, "reasons to be optimistic".

Banks have been posted better than Deutsche Bank day results topped with expecations.Lloyd's Banking Group reached 1.13 69.12 and Barclays 4.95 to 282.3 p.

What united utilities earned 1 599½p and Scottish & Southern Energy reaching 1 £ 11.09 DEFENSIVE have also swallowed, with Severn Trent bubbling up to 5 p to £ 13.64.

Among the plugs Talvivaara checked to 13½ at 546 p as Finnish nickel producer said that he had discovered 54pc metal more in its deposits.

Seymour Pierce kept analysts "buy" rating and put their price target 532½p ongoing review, saying the news was "mixed".

While there was some positive news on the side of the mining operation, the broker said that in the short term, the transformation of the company's side was still experiencing difficulties.

Riding place ranking was too Halfords, won 16.2 percent 425.8 after Goldman Sachs raised the seller of auto parts for bikes "buy" to "neutral" after a period of underachievement.

"Actions are 33pc 22pc to the sector on a basis of 3 months and 6 months," said the broker.

Analysts said that the retailer has a high stable top leadership of the market in many categories of product line in its portfolio and they expect national store and the Autocentres redésignés expansion to ensure growth in the medium term.

At the other end of the scale on a day where the FTSE 250 throw 10827.28 113.44 points was Tate & Lyle, sliding 23.1 percent 499.9 after evolution securities said sugar business assessment was now "sweet enough" and cut their "neutral" from "buy" rating.

"In the short term there are several key issues, in execution of a very strong in the price of the shares, we think leaving the stock search events," said analysts.

The largest Faller mid-cap Wednesday, was however, Soco International, who slipped 34.8 to 292 p after petroleum connected Explorer and ababndoned exploration second place in the Democratic Republic of the Congo after he was found of hydrocarbons on the site.

However, increased Credit Switzerland "neutral" to "underperform" as Explorer analysts they anticiapted potential positive catalysts for the price of the shares.

Elsewhere in the oil sector, the smell of black gold is stimulating excitement - and the share of the dramatic price increases.Desire petroleum shot 50.75 - or 76 03pc - 117½p as internet bulletin boards were alive that the browser could have struck oil speculation.

But others were less certain sources saying that they knew the existence of a reason behind partage.La company prices skyrocketing refused to comment on the rise.

Rockhopper Exploration acquired 18.25% 318.25 Panmure Gordon launched on Explorer focused on the Falkland Islands with a "buy" rating. ""We believe that drilling program to appear can demonstrate the potential value of the region," said analysts.

Among the small caps, Helphire tumbling 8.5 - or 28 33pc - of 21½p after Manager claim accident stated that the lower accident rate meant that results for this year would fall below expectations.

Shares of CSR, manufacturer of smart phones, cars and digital cameras, tumbling Wednesday after the company provides a plunge in the fourth quarter income Wednesday.

CSR throw 35.7 309.6 p despite having seen a 6pc increase the third quarter revenue at $222.1 m (£ 140 7 m) as a manufacturer of said chip revenues during the next quarter would reflect "" trends economic macro, low-level exposure to Smartphones and constraints of capacity in some of our lines of products GPS.""

Joep van Beurden, CEO, CSR, said results of the quarter, these are "robust" and the company was confident in his ability to "lead the growth of earnings.

Securities analysts Numis retained their "buy" rating, the results were well ahead of time on the pay-by-hand due to improved gross margins and a lower tax burden.

But analysts Seymour Pierce moved to "hold" to "buy", say was the combined company "clearly struggling with a weak position in the smartphone market important all."

After the closed market, CSR restarted its program redemption of shares, buying common shares back 102,000.

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FTSE 100 gains but concerns expenditure struck small caps

But analysts at Numis Promethean "add" to "buy". Commenting on prospects for management of company Whiteboard on the American market, analysts said: "we are pulling our forecast return to take account of this and an expectation of a further deterioration of here."

Axe public for Chancellor George Osborne spending hit Mouchel, which tumbling 38 p-, or 30 16pc - 88 percent as the company, which allows the Government to maintain highways and provides advice to local authorities, said that the immediate prospects remain displayed as Mouchel incertaine.Bien loss throughout the year, told that it was informed to benefit from an increase in subcontracting anticipated.

But blue-chips felt more healthy Thursday, WINS points 31.87 5677.89, results forecast-beating of Royal Dutch Shell helps lift sentiment.

The oil giant has increased from 10 p to £ 19.87 after a break for the benefit of the third quarter, thanks to rising prices for oil and gas.

Performance of shell illuminated other stocks with Essar energy reaching 7½ 543 p .but energy company focused on the Indian also had its own news announcing that he planned to increase the capacity of its plant to Vadinar.

After taking a blow earlier this week, chipmaker ARM Holdings is in demand, accusing the blue-chip leader Commission increased by 11.6 to 372 p.

H2O markets reiterated their position "buy" on the business of Cambridge, saying that he is exceptionally well placed to benefit from continued demand in smartphone and iPad markets.

Insurers are also supported with prudential WINS 17 630½p, Admiral 24 p to £ 16.35 and Standard Life reaching 3.1 226.9 p.

Panmure Gordon analysts Thursday reiterated their positive life insurance sector UK, with a rating of "buy" on prudential attitude.

But the broker has maintained a "hold" on the Standard Life, although worn his price target to 240 p 225 p.

"After share prices fall in 2nd quarter 2010, the sector has rebounded in the third quarter, largely following the resumption of stock markets," said analysts.

"From life insurance looks set to benefit from the relaxation of fears about the impact of [new capital requirements] and double-recession, which in turn facilitates the concerns of the default corporate bond sector."

Blue-chip heavy that Vodafone was lifted p 4.4 170.7 through solid results of peer channel, France Telecom, whose results third quarter exceeded forecasts of analysts. ""France Tel showed strength in France and Spain and KPN showed the German market was also performing all markets key for Vodafone," said analysts in the execution of noble.

But at the other end of the spectrum, pharmaceutical companies were as after AstraZeneca showed generic competition had improperly revenues for the third quarter.

Britain's second drug manufacturer slipped 106 p to £ 31.39½, while GlaxoSmithKline decreased 11½p to £ 12.33 sympathy and manufacturer of the medical device, Smith & Nephew abandoned to 13½ to 560 p.

21.55 Points 10848.83 acquired mid-cap market and among stars of index was crucial to SVG, checking up 13.1 to 202½p after the company stated that its net asset value increased close to one-fifth to the third trimestre.Analystes Liberum said it was a good quarter as labour Permira and SVG had to reduce the debt and drive growth private equity income repayment.

But lagging Thursday Croda International, fell 45% to £ 14.70 despite posting strong third trimestre.Le manufacturer of chemical products for customers including Estée Lauder was downgraded by Brewin Dolphin to "hold" "add" for reasons of assessment results.

Housebuilders fell after the Nationwide figures showed that housing prices continued to fall that buyers have remained away from the marché.Taylor lost 0.4 to 22.93%, Barratt Developments Wimpey fell 1.3 to 78.15%, Bovis Homes fell from 5.9 to 349 p and Redrow shed 1.9 to 114,3 p.

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Objective principal Marcus Stuttard defends market junior claims "volatility".

This week, value doubled Petroleum desire on speculation on oil find - despite no information publicly available on the market.

However, Marcus Stuttard, head of the defended on the London Stock Exchange aim market junior of the city as a stable place to do business.

"One of the reasons monitor us the market and share price movements is to ensure that there is known by the company may be disclosed", he said.

It is not within the competency in order to stop any person displaying false rumours on the internet, bulletin boards, but it can - and - report concerns the financial authorities.

"If we suspect any type of abusive behaviour or see any sign of concern we refer to the regulatory body."In some cases we provide information help regulatory agencies to further their investigations.

Mr. Stuttard disputes the idea that there is a widespread problem.

"If there is no a strong level of confidence in the market, then we see the high level of support of investors we."

"Actually, much emphasis has been to try to increase the liquidity on the but.Ce we have a tendency to find growth markets, need more buy and sell orders."

Last year, market combined corporate AIM values totaled of £ 59bn.Toutefois Dynamics raise capital has evolved over the ans.En 2006, £ 9. 6bn was raised by selling, more than £ 5. 7bn in trésorerie.Cependant, calls in the market this year, it was only 800 m £ 5.3 £ 4 in share offers and sales.

Mr. Stuttard believes it is still obliged to wider markets State account success.

"In most markets growth very little has been raised, while we raised a total of £ 5. 5bn.".

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Utilities stocks fail to boost lethargic FTSE 100

Leaping Board winners in wake of Scottish & South were reaching 10.4 percent 332.2 Centrica and National Grid ticking up to 6½ to 590 p.

But the utility companies failed to lift the blue-chip dull swung between gains and losses and ending almost flat.

The FTSE 100 lost 2.73 points investors 5675.16 marked time in advance of the meeting of Federal Reserve hotly awaited next week.

Languish at the head of the losers league table has British Airways, which nose dived 10 to 270.7 percent despite the swinging in the dark. Panmure Gordon analysts have been sticking to their "hold" rating, saying: "Momentum has been strong in the price of shares, powered by revenues, particularly in terms of demand for premium environment improved yields, ATI approval for the transatlantic joint venture with AA and Iberia and planned with Iberia merger".

Minors were also lower with Xstrata losing £ 12.09½ and Rio Tinto excretion 69½p 40½p to £ 40.36.

Having a better day was insurers with Aviva putting on 5.4 398.1 p Goldman Sachs reiterated its "buy belief" on shares.Next Tuesday, Aviva will report its results for the third quarter, which analysts believe will support the case of investment.

"In our opinion, the significance of the number of sales down played b.c market ' is understandable, because they have little bearing on the position of the group, capital dividend paying capacity and resilience in a prolonged low interest rate environment" said broker. "While the body is very focusing market better than expected sales of Aviva markets of Europe and the UK-based show some sustainability gains and that review group or the transition to the Solvency II are not disturbing the underlying transactions.»

Also benefit from a burst of Goldman Sachs was GKN, which rose 3.3% 177.3.Dans a note of the European automotive sector, the broker reiterated its "buy" rating on the manufacturer of parts for cars and planes and raised its price target to 285 p 220 p.

Travelers small caps automobile-related, was flat at 61 automotive dealer p.Le stated that he had seen a solid third quarter through its parts car combined with the increase in sales of new and used vehicles.

Earlier this week, there have been whispers of private investment capital interest in Miss, but Chief Executive, said Friday that they had received no offer.

Among second linings, Hikma Pharmaceuticals seeking particularly healthy, pulling 49½ at 786 p after it struck an agreement with Baxter International, American Society of health care.

Listed on the FTSE 250 Jordan-based undertaking bought Baxter us generic injectibles unit 112 m $, double the size of Hikma US business and giving more 14pc market.

Analysts said the acquisition will position Hikma as the second largest supplier of injectibles to the United States Citigroup.

"Existing expertise Hikma injection and desire of Baxter to divest non-core assets produced an attractive and financially reasonable agreement in our opinion," said the broker who Hikma "medium risk.

Oil and gas services company, hunting, has been on the rise too, breaking 41½ in 644½p .Chasse whose equipment is used in the construction and maintenance of oil, said shale drilling activity and demand for components in the West and to the Brazil he developed able top year-round market expectations.

Their "buy" rating on hunting and raised the prices kept RBS analysts 670 p 630 p.Le Broker target stated that in a context of market improvement, hunting was performing well.

But punters took their money out of the table for Partygaming, sending internet business down 10.8% 251.9 gaming.

Excitation of bidding pushed shares in resources from Berkeley to hereditary 112½p as Russian steel giant, Severstal, approached Berkeley on a possible takeover of uranium, a value on an exploration company 304 million senior dollars.Atout Berkeley is a project of uranium from Salamanca, Espagne.Severstal envisages a cash bid to $2.00 at Berkeley, appearing also in Sydney.

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Graham Thorpe tops England's list in search for new batting coach

When it was announced last week that Hills would be leaving after the second Ashes Test in Adelaide to link up with Australia as their assistant coach, the ECB made it known that it intended to appoint a “high-calibre” replacement.

Thorpe fits the bill following a lengthy and successful playing career in which he scored 6,774 Test runs, and was identified by Andy Flower, the England team director, as a potential member of the backroom team following good reports of his work with the academy squad in Abu Dhabi last winter.

Thorpe will work mainly with the England performance squad this winter in Adelaide and Perth with Graham Gooch continuing in his role as batting coach to the senior side.

Gooch enjoys his part-time role with the England set up which he juggles with media work and commitments with Essex, although Thorpe is likely to emerge as a long-term replacement.

Gooch worked closely with opener Alastair Cook last summer and helped him back to form in the final Test against Pakistan, when he scored a century which saved his place in the side. But he had less success with Kevin Pietersen, whose form has slumped over the past two years.

Thorpe endured highs and lows as a Test player with a very public divorce and periods when he appeared unhappy in an England shirt. He may well be able to empathise with Pietersen, who appears to be a player in need of an emotional crutch. Last week he made the astonishing admission that he may be on a downward spiral, a state of mind which presents a major challenge to the England coaching staff as they plot their Ashes campaign.

“I am 30 years old now,” said Pietersen. “I have probably got to the top of the fence and am on the way down now.”

The ECB was aware that Hills wanted to return to Australia and that may well have played a part in the decision not to involve him fully with the senior team with an Ashes series looming. It will also hope that appointing a coach with Thorpe’s playing experience will help to silence any criticism of losing one of its senior coaches to their Australian rivals during an Ashes series.

Thorpe was linked with the job as head of the ECB’s development programme in Loughborough recently, a position that was eventually filled by Tim Boon.

It is thought that the ECB instead earmarked Thorpe for the batting role, a job that builds on his recent experience.

After retiring from Test cricket in 2005 Thorpe moved to Australia, where he worked as an assistant coach at state side New South Wales, returning to Surrey in November 2008 as batting coach.

If Thorpe moves to the ECB it will solve a tricky problem for Surrey, who made 20 members of staff redundant last month following a poor summer of ticket sales.

It is thought that Chris Adams, the Surrey director of cricket, was told to trim his coaching staff, leaving the positions of Thorpe and assistant coach Ian Salisbury under threat.

Thorpe was largely confined to working with Surrey’s second team last year during a difficult season for a county going through a major rebuilding period.

Golden Graham: Thorpe’s international career in numbers

6,744
Number of Test-match runs that Thorpe had made for England by the time he retired in 2005, playing exactly100 games.

48.2
His batting average in Test matches in Australia, during two unsuccessful Ashes tours (1994-95 and 1998-99).

200
Thorpe’s highest score in Test cricket, made against New Zealand in Christchurch in March 2002. In all, he made 16 hundreds.

3
Number of full-time coaching posts Thorpe has held – New South Wales batting coach and assistant coach, and Surrey batting coach.

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The ashes of 2010: four things England must unravel before facing the Australia in Brisbane

Taking 20 ATMs is never easy in Australia and England will be at least twice if they want to win the series. The WACA was once the fastest tone in the world. It is always faster than most while carrying the rebound, with its long trampoline and invite the fast launchers - including Steve Finn - things too short. As Stuart Broad said the other day, you will need to Bowl fuller than you think. Recently, Darren Pattinson (remember the Headingley 2008 review), take eight wickets in a race against the Western Australia it full pitch of off-strain and leaving the tone to do the rest.

Bowling England must demonstrate patience and step WA frustated.Batteurs well know the surface and leave balls on length, safe in knowing that they will spend on the stem.

Britain must also find bowling are better equipped to Bowl in the Fremantle Doctor here, strong wind transforms in the afternoon Perth all refroidir.Graeme Swann is an obvious candidate, but the sewing launchers must know the challenges as well.

Stay in control against short things

Hook or step hook?Judging by the amount of short balls Graham Gooch, consultant frappeurs team is low Ping Strauss and the greater part of the order at the top of the page in the nets, England expect obviously get a peppering of Mitchell Johnson and co, which were far too polite to England last year.

Adelaide separated patterns test here mostly have major limitations of square window, therefore hooks off top tip miscued tend to be intercepted instead of sailing for six.Pour on hooking up, they should commit themselves fully to shot, something not clear in the practice of plea yesterday while Matt Prior (left) and Paul Collingwood, were both taken after duffing their kicked traction.

Hook or duck was an Enigma to the teams from England before here and that is never easy to resolve.Boulevards rarely change their spots, unless they hold out, while the duckers attract many short balls anyway.

Keep the image control is the key, which is what has been practicing Gooch, mainly of Strauss.Mais losing control and your window follow soon.

Pietersen must restore confidence.

Obtain again Kevin Pietersen the passes.Pour those who met Pietersen, it is difficult to imagine him on trust, but this is what happened after a relatively 18 mois.Andy Flower fallow and Andrew Strauss have applied the salute to his ego, while his bat was mark big tracks are the only effective remedy.

Strauss, says Pietersen (left) is it strikes in nets, as well as it has always been but watch him practice, insecurity is eveident in its position, what appears to be much broader than when it first announced himself to the Australians in 2005.

Lowering your centre of gravity is logical for a large size as Pietersen man, but he seems to be leaving the G-force drag as other mortals.

It is believed that his stay with her coach school, Graham Ford in South Africa last month have ironed out some parasites that were made in his game.

But the technique is still less reason for the failure to the vacillante.Pietersen mind is his confidence in himself restored and to remember why he has chosen to England to prove himself on the world stage in first place.

No Bowl winner match Swann in soil

It is essential to strike a balance between the use of Graeme Swann as an attacking melon and a defensive.

Attack of four men, Swann (left) is for Bowl many overs, but to manage effectively could prove more challenging Andrew Strauss as captain.

Shane Warne desired bowling periods, attrition, but so far in his career as a test, Swann seems better with short sharper prospérer.Il prefers also go to ATMs, which is what England need to keep, but on hot days when the land went to sleep, the temptation might be to him to block until the end.

Like most launchers, spinners get tired (their wrists and fingers including spinning) .Jauger point where should emerge in Swann, is what the Strauss must do if his main spinner and the potential game-winner must remain an effective wicket-taker at the end of the day.

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The Ashes 2010 countdown: Top 50 moments of England in Australia

No.42 (Oct 14): Bodyline v Bradman

Don Bradman’s brilliance continued in 1930 in England, when he made 131 at Trent Bridge, 254 at Lord’s, a Test record 334 at Headingley, and 232 at the Oval, as Australia captured the Ashes 2-1. He averaged 139.14 in the series, and England felt they needed something to neutralise him for when they returned to Australia in 1932-33. The tactic MCC captain Douglas Jardine devised was called ‘Leg Theory’, or ‘Bodyline’ as it became known. Bowlers pitched short and aimed at the batsman’s body, with a posse of fielders around the bat on the leg side waiting for a catch. It was to become the most controversial Ashes series of all ...

No.43 (Oct 13): The Don Shows Who's Boss

Enter the Don! A certrain Mr Bradman made his Test debut in the 1928-29 Ashes series, but failed to prevent a 4-1 England win. The tourists were led by the adventurous Percy Chapman. Bradman made his Ashes debut in the first Test at Brisbane, after playing only nine first-class matches. The 20 year-old managed just 18 and one, and was relegated to 12th man for the next match. It was the only time he was dropped by Australia. The Boy from Bowral returned for the third Test at Melbourne, and made 79 and 112. He was the youngest player, at that time, to score a Test century. The rest, as they say ... The bat Bradman used on his debut was sold two years ago for about £65,000.

No.44 (Oct 14): Herbie Goes Bananas After 4-1 Win

After Warwick Armstrong led his tourists to a 3-0 win in 1921, England might have hoped a change of Australia captain would offer them respite. Alas, Herbie Collins took over to lead the Australians to another crushing win (4-1) in 1924-25. This was in spite of Herbert Sutcliffe scoring four hundreds and Jack Hobbs three, and Maurice Tate taking 38 wickets, 14 more than his closest rival. Australia's greater strength in depth proved key, however. England ended their sequence of 13 Ashes Tests without victory by winning at Melbourne, and it was at this stage that the series broke into its regular four-year pattern.

No.45 (Oct 15): England Crushed By Big Ship

The Ashes were put on hold during the First World War, and did not resume until 1920-21. Australia were led by the imposing Warwick Armstrong, who was known as 'The Big Ship'. The hosts won emphatically at Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney to inflict the first Ashes whitewash in a five-Test series. Jack Hobbs scored two centuries for England, but Australia's charge was led by Herbert Collins (who scored the most number of runs in the series, 557) and leg-spinner Arthur Mailey, who took 36 wickets. Armstrong also averaged 77, with three hundreds.

No.46 (Oct 16): Hobbs Masters Aussie Attack

England crashed to a 4-1 defeat in 1907-08 and also lost to the touring Australians in 1909. No one gave them much chance in 1911-12, particularly when they lost the first Test at Sydney thanks, in part, to Victor Trumper's 113, and 12 wickets for leg-spinner Herbert 'Ranji' Hordern. The Australians had not accounted for Surrey's Jack Hobbs, 'The Master', however, and he reeled off his first Ashes centuries - three of them, in successive wins: 126 not out at Melbourne, 187 at Adelaide and 178, again at Melbourne. The tourists also took the fifth Test, back at Sydney, to win the series 4-1.

No.47 (Oct 17): Plum Victory Down Under

England's fortunes had changed by the 1903-04 series, losing four series to Australia in a row. It was at this point that the term, 'the Ashes', caught on. Pelham Warner, the England captain known as Plum, talked about reclaiming them before departing that winter. His men, viewed as underdogs, answered his call, taking the series in Australia 3-2. In the first Test at Sydney, RE 'Tip' Foster struck 287, a Test record for the time, and still the highest score by a debutant, to help England win by five wickets. Plum Warner also managed Douglas Jardine's England side in Australia in 1932-33, famously objecting to the Bodyline / Leg Theory tactics that helped subdue Don Bradman and defeat the Australians.

No.48 (Oct 18): Ashes Are Born

After England's legendary defeat at the Oval on Aug 29, 1882, and that famous obituary in The Sporting Times, Ivo Bligh left for Australia with his side to attain their revenge. On the trip, Bligh and the amateurs in his party stayed at Rupertswood, a stately home at Sunbury in Victoria. Rupertswood was the home of Sir William Clarke, a wealthy landowner, and his wife is said to have asked that a bail – believed to have been used in the third match of the series – be burnt, the remains then poured into a terracotta urn and given to Bligh. England won the series 2-1, although the Ashes stayed at Rupertswood until 1927 before being taken to Lord's.

No.49 (Oct 19): The Demon Strikes

Test cricket's first hat-trick was taken by Australia's Fred 'The Demon' Spofforth. The third Test encounter between Australia and England began two days into 1879, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, after the sides had won a Test each in the winter of 1876-77. Spofforth's hat-trick reduced England to 113 all out in the first innings. He took six for 48, and then made 39 as Australia established a lead of 143. He was once again the destroyer in the second innings, taking seven for 62, and his side went on to win by 10 wickets. Spofforth was the man England - including WG Grace - dreaded facing. He was tall, quick, fiendishly accurate and, after he leapt dramatically into the crease, he could make the ball cut and swerve. In 1881 he is said to have travelled 400 miles by horseback to play in a minor match in Australia, in which he took all 20 wickets - all bowled. He later played for Derbyshire and Yorkshire.

No.50 (Oct 20): Where It All Began

The first Test match was staged between Australia (actually a Grand Combined Melbourne and Sydney XI) and England. It began on March 15, 1877 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. It was timeless, and Australia won by 45 runs. David Gregory was Australia’s captain, while James Lillywhite led England. The tourists’ Alfred Shaw bowled the first ball, Allen Hill took the first wicket, and Australia’s Charles Bannerman (a native of Kent who moved to New South Wales) became the first centurion, making 165 in the first innings of the match. England’s Henry Jupp, from Surrey, was the only other player to score 50 in the Test, making 63 in the first innings, but he could not prevent Australia winning by 45 runs.

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India v Australia: Australia hold precarious lead going into day five

Determined: Australia's Ricky Ponting collides with Harbhajan Singh on his way to making a resolute 72 Photo: AFP

Indian spinners Pragyan Ojha and Harbhajan Singh shared five wickets as Australia struggled to 202 for seven at stumps Tuesday, an overall lead of 185 with one day remaining in a delicately poised second and final test.

After conceding a 17-run first-innings lead to India, Australia raced to 58 in 16 overs before losing three top-order batsmen in quick succession. A determined Ricky Ponting (72) figured in useful half-century stands with Michael Hussey (20) and Tim Paine (23) to bolster the middle order.

Openers Shane Watson (31) and Simon Katich (24) had started well, but the advent of the spinners pegged the visiting side back.

Watson was trapped lbw by left-arm spinner Ojha, missing a half-century for the first time on the tour.

He scored a century in each innings (115 and 104) of a three-day practice game in Chandigarh. He then struck 126 and 56 in the first test at Mohali, where Australia lost by one wicket, and followed it up with 57 in the first innings here.

Watson's dismissal was followed by two more wickets in the space of seven runs.

Katich was caught behind by Mahendra Singh Dhoni off Harbhajan, while Clarke was stumped by Dhoni off Ojha as the batsman stretched out to reach a delivery that dipped sharply.

The pace bowlers started to get some reverse swing later in the innings. Left-armer Zaheer Khan removed Ponting after the Australian captain had struck one six and seven fours, while Paine (23) fell to Sreesanth just six runs later.

Ojha returned 3-57 and Harbhajan had 2-63 as India chased its first victory at the Bangalore venue since 1995.

Earlier, Sachin Tendulkar completed his sixth test double-century to guide India to 486 for five before India had a dramatic late collapse.

Resuming at 435 for five, India progressed to 486 before losing five wickets for nine runs and being dismissed for 495 on in reply to Australia's 478.

Tendulkar, who was on 191 at stumps on Monday, was first out, dragging a delivery from rookie paceman Peter George onto his stumps. His magnificent 214 was laced with 22 boundaries and two sixes.

Skipper Dhoni made 30 in 87 minutes, but Harbhajan, Zaheer and Sreesanth failed to deliver.

The lanky George, who also accounted for the wicket of Zaheer, combined with others to restrict the Indians.

Nathan Hauritz took two wickets in five balls as he dismissed Dhoni and last-man Sreesanth. Dhoni was caught at slip as he tried to drive a delivery from the spinner, while Sreesanth was trapped lbw.

Watson accounted for Harbhajan, who gave a simple catch to Ponting at mid-wicket.

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Former England batsman Graham Thorpe named ECB national batting coach

The 41-year-old, who had an 18-year first-class career with Surrey and scored 6,744 runs in 100 Tests for his country, has since returned to his former county side as batting coach.

In his new role he will replace Australian Dene Hills, who has had two years in the role which involves coaching batsmen within the England development programme and Lions and performance (EPP) squads.

Thorpe, who begins his new role next month, said: "I am very grateful to Surrey for giving me the chance to develop my coaching career and wish Chris Adams and all the players the best of luck next season.

"It will be hard to leave Surrey but this is a fantastic opportunity for me to help prepare the next generation of England batsmen by working with EPP, England Lions and England age-group squads and I am really looking forward to the challenge."

ECB performance director David Parsons said: "Graham has a wealth of experience both as a player and a coach and he will play a vital role working with some of the very best young batsmen in the game and ensuring they are able to excel when they make the step up to the full international side.

"He was very impressive when he worked with England Lions in the UAE earlier this year and both the players and management team held him in extremely high regard. We are very pleased to be welcoming him on a full-time basis.

"I would like to thank Dene Hills for his contribution over the last two years. We are very grateful for his hard work with the England performance programme and wish him well for the future."

Hills, who is to take up a position with Cricket Australia, added: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my role with the ECB and am genuinely sorry that my time with them has come to an end. I would like to thank David Parsons and the team at the National Cricket Performance Centre for making my time here so rewarding.

"I am looking forward to returning to Australia and having the opportunity to continue my coaching career."

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India v Australia: Sachin Tendulkar leads hosts to 2-0 Test series whitewash

Debutant Cheteshwar Pujara also rose to the occasion, posting 72 on a testing final-day pitch to set India on course to achieve their victory target of 207.

Australia's bowlers struggled against the free-scoring Indian batsmen, with Nathan Hauritz managing just one second-innings wicket while rival spinners Harbhajan Singh and Pragyan Ojha collected six wickets apiece in the match.

The defeat means Australia will head into their next Test assignment, the Ashes, ranked lower than opponents England after falling to fifth place in the ICC Test standings.

India dominated the final day completely once they bowled Australia out for 223 in the second innings and set themselves a target of 207 for victory, on the back of their slender 17-run lead in the first innings.

Zaheer Khan started the proceedings well for the tourists by adding two more wickets to his overnight scalp of Ricky Ponting, while Sreesanth got his second wicket when he bowled Ben Hilfenhaus off his pads.

In reply, India started strongly with Murali Vijay and Pujara scoring at a brisk pace and soon overcame the early loss of Virender Sehwag (seven), who was caught behind by Tim Paine off Hilfenhaus.

The pair defied the early help for Australia's bowlers and took India to 73 for two at lunch, with both batsmen unbeaten on 29.

In all, they added 72 runs in 13 overs before a bowling change after the interval did the trick for Australia as first-innings centurion Vijay, who batted confidently for his 37 off 45 balls, was trapped leg before by Watson.

Tendulkar got off the mark with a boundary and in the next over India inched past 100 with an overthrow.

Pujara brought up his maiden Test half-century soon after by pulling Watson to the mid-wicket boundary and by the 22nd over the victory target was down to 92.

Thereafter the debutant from Rajkot executed some attractive shots on both sides of the wicket. He was particularly aggressive against Hauritz, whose first three overs went for 30.

However, after making 72 from 89 balls, he was foxed by the spinner in his next over with a delivery which held its line after pitching and disturbed the off stump, bringing an end to his 57-run partnership with Tendulkar for the third wicket.

The exit of Pujara, whose innings was studded with seven fours, brought local boy Dravid to the middle. The veteran of 144 Tests played some delectable cover drives and quickly found his rhythm, after his first-innings single-digit score.

Tendulkar switched gears just before tea and hit Hauritz for two consecutive sixes over long on to bring the target down to 22 in the final session.

The duo took the team closer to the finishing line immediately after the break with some beautiful boundaries and quick singles as Tendulkar helped himself to another half-century.

Dravid remained unbeaten on 21 and together they added 61 runs in an unbroken fourth-wicket stand.

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ICC close investigation into Oval one-day international between England and Pakistan

The probe by the ICC's anti-corruption and security unit (ACSU) was triggered in response to a report by the Sun newspaper, which claimed it had evidence showing bookmakers knew details of the Pakistan innings before the Sept 17 match had begun.

A statement from the ICC today read: "Following extensive investigations into allegations about the one-day international between England and Pakistan at The Oval in London on 17 September, the ACSU has verified all the available information and concluded that there was no compelling evidence to suspect individual players or support staff.

"The investigation is now complete but if new and corroborating evidence comes to light then clearly the ACSU will re-open the matter."

Pakistan won the match by 23 runs following a batting collapse sparked by a stellar spell of bowling by Umar Gul.

"I had always said we played fairly and I had full confidence in my players, I am happy our position has been vindicated," Shahid Afridi, the Pakistan captain, said.

"We tried to remain focused on the cricket in England and won two matches in the one-day series. I am happy this issue is now behind us and we can now concentrate on the series against South Africa," he said.

Coach Waqar Younis said it was high time Pakistan cricket got some good news.

"The news of the investigation was disturbing so I am happy it is over now," he added.

After the match, Pakistan Cricket Board president Ijaz Butt accused Andrew Strauss' team of accepting money to lose it, accusations he withdrew when the England and Wales Cricket Board threatened legal action.

The investigation came amid a difficult tour for Pakistan which saw three of their players - Salman Butt, Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif - suspended by the ICC following accusations of spot-fixing in the Lord's Test.

The three players, who deny any wrongdoing, have appealed their provisional suspensions, and an independent hearing will take place in Doha on Oct 30 and 31.

The ICC have now give the PCB 30 days to conduct a review into player integrity.

The statement continued: "If the PCB fails to carry out the above to the satisfaction of the board within the next 30 days, the board will consider what further action (including, if appropriate, sanctions) is required in the circumstances."

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ICC give green light to Test league

The proposals, given the green light at the ICC board meeting which concluded in Dubai today, would see the top four teams qualify for Test play-offs every four years.

A statement from the ICC today read: "These recommendations seek to give exciting content and context for international cricket within the Future Tours Programme (FTP) after 2012."

The board have suggested the first play-offs be held in 2013.

The board also recommended a one-day league, beginning in April next year and running on a similar four-year cycle, to exist separately from the World Cup.

Under the proposals, the World Cup will be reduced to 10 teams from 2015, while the World Twenty20 will be expanded to 16 from 2012.

ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat said: "Restructuring international cricket is a significant strategic challenge and one that must be dealt with. We have now agreed in principle to exciting and far-reaching proposals to tackle this most important issue.

"Achieving balance and unanimous agreement is not easy but we have responded well to a strategic priority to restructure international cricket.

"The proposals, especially introducing more meaningful context, means we now have the potential to follow international cricket that is even more exciting."

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India v Australia: Sachin Tendulkar salutes team effort after Test series whitewash

India completed a clean sweep by winning the second Test in Bangalore by seven wickets.

Tendulkar played a crucial role in the victory by notching up an unbeaten 53 on the back of a first-innings double-century.

The multiple record holder was also involved in match-winning partnerships with Cheteshwar Pujara (72) and Rahul Dravid (21 not out).

In all Tendulkar scored 403 runs in the two Tests and his effort was acknowledged with the man of the match and man of the series awards.

However, he remained as humble as ever and gave credit to his team-mates - with a special mention for Ishant Sharma, whose three-wicket burst in the second innings and defiant tail-end vigil helped India win the first Test in Mohali by a whisker.

"I would like to congratulate the whole team, starting from Laxman and Zaheer Khan who helped us win. I must also mention Ishant Sharma's contribution in the first Test," Tendulkar said.

"Pujara showed tremendous character and his partnership with Vijay was a very crucial one," said the winner of this year's International Cricket Council Cricketer of the Year award.

"This series was a fantastic one. Normally, there is not much of a crowd for Test cricket but I must thank the Bangaloreans for coming out. You guys made the victory sweeter," he said.

India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni praised the efforts of his bowlers on batsman-friendly pitches.

"As a captain I keep losing tosses which means the bowlers have to come in and bowl on flat tracks. But they have bowled really well," Dhoni said.

On Australia losing both the Tests despite notching up scores in excess of 400 in their first innings, Dhoni said: "In India you can just lose a Test in two sessions. You need to play well in all the five days."

Rival captain Ricky Ponting admitted that India outplayed them in the series.

"We have played reasonably good Test cricket but we were outplayed," he said.

"We needed to get a few early wickets today, we got one but Pujara and (Murali) Vijay batted well," he said.

On the positives for the visitors from the tour, Ponting said: "(Ben) Hilfenhaus and (Mitchell) Johnson have been good. (Shane) Watson has been good."

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Ricky Ponting slams 'uninformed' Shane Warne over criticisms of field placings in Test loss

Field of screams: Ricky Ponting (left) and Nathan Hauritz discuss field positions against India Photo: AP

The former leg-spinner blasted Ponting for what he perceived to be an unhelpful field for Nathan Hauritz during the last game of the two-match series, which India won 2-0 after triumphing in the contest by seven wickets.

Warne wrote on Twitter: ''How the hell can Hauritz bowl to this field?? Feeling for Hauritz, terrible!! What are these tactics? Sorry Ricky but what are you doing?''

The 41 year-old appeared frustrated with Ponting's field placements during Hauritz's opening spell, when he was brought on in the ninth over with India at 47 for one in their chase of 207.

The off-spinner bowled to a prominently leg-side field with players placed at deep point, long-on and long-off, slip, short-leg and leg slip.

But Ponting insisted the field was the bowler's choice: ''Every field that Nathan's had to bowl with since he's been here is at his request, it's the fields that he wants to bowl to," said the Australia skipper.

''Unfortunately it doesn't appear that Shane would take the time to ask anyone about that.

''Warne's got his opinion out in the public at the moment, and it's a personal opinion. Different people say things at different times, we don't always agree with all of them, that's life I guess.

''It would be nice if they were a bit more informed before they made some of their comments though.''

Hauritz conceded 22 runs in his first two overs, and was immediately removed from attack by a worried Ponting. Hauritz ultimately returned figures of one for 76 in 12 overs.

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Personal tragedy pushes Yorkshire's Steve Patterson to marathon fund-raiser

"Some people will be wondering what would possess me to do that at this time of year, but it is something that means a lot to me," Patterson said.

"I had a tragic time with my family last year when I lost a couple of my cousins within a month and it was a very tough time for my family.

"My cousins were in the process of raising money for the British Lung Foundation because they'd lost a friend themselves to a lung problem and after a bit of time we decided as a family that, in their memory, we would take on that responsibility to raise what they never got the opportunity to do.

The Hull-born 26-year-old has set up his own fund-raising website, and has appealed for sponsorship. "The eldest of my cousins was 27 years old when she died we decided that our target should be £27,000," Patterson said.

"I had to contribute something myself. It had to be out of season and decided the New York Marathon would be a great opportunity and experience and opted for that."

"Have a read of my story, you don't have to necessarily sponsor me, it explains a bit more detail of what happened and why I'm raising this money. If you read it and think it's a valuable cause they would be very welcome to donate."

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The Ashes 2010: Kevin Pietersen is a disruptive influence, says John Buchanan

Disruptive influence? Kevin Pietersen is a divisive figure who could disrupt the England camp, according to former Australia coach John Buchanan Photo: PA

Pietersen has assumed the role as Australia's favourite target as the Ashes series looms with Buchanan's comments following similar swipes from Ricky Ponting, who last week described him as a the vulnerable link in the England side.

Buchanan, who worked on a consultancy basis for a week with the England and Wales Cricket Board last summer, has previous history of criticising Pietersen, describing him as a "man apart" and selfish for refusing to bat at No 4 during the Ashes series of 2006-07.

Pietersen's image as a loner jars with the Australian team ethic and Buchanan, who makes his comments in the next issue of the Wisden Cricketer, clearly feels his barren run of form in Test cricket is a potential pressure point for Ponting and his men to exploit when the Ashes series begins in Brisbane on Nov 25.

"They [England] seem to have a new mental toughness and they are more consistent, except for the odd glitch, which is mainly Kevin Pietersen," Buchanan said. "He is a quality player and he could be an incredible strength for them but, if he's not scoring runs, he could become a major problem for the batting line-up and the entire team. Andy Flower has been trying to work on that.

"Pietersen hasn't done himself or the team any favours with his recent twittering. Two of the things that will be tested in Australia are strength and unity and clearly he hasn't understood his role within the team yet. He has the potential to be an individualist and fragmentary. It needs to be managed by Strauss and Flower."

Buchanan had envisaged a more long-term role with the ECB when he arrived in England this summer but later claimed they couldn't afford his fees. Public criticism of England's leading talent may not be the best way to gain future employment but he is clearly impressed with the management of Strauss and Flower, claiming they can make the team the best in the world.

"The future looks very healthy and I believe England can be world leaders within the next three years," he said. "The pathways and people they have in place could see them overtake the rest of the world."

Buchanan goaded England by asking them to give Australia "a contest" during the whitewash of four years ago but senses a different result this time, providing they remain united.

"None of them has any experience of winning in Australia," he said. "Playing overseas is very different and they have yet to prove they can do it over a five-Test series in Australia.

"At some point doubts will start to creep into their heads and it is all about how they deal with them. They need to retain this spirit and sense of purpose.

"England teams in the past would often be beaten before the Test started. They didn't believe in themselves, even when they were ahead, but they are better at handling that now. The top four, Strauss, Cook, Trott and Pietersen, will be England's most important players. That is where the series will be decided. Whoever wins the battle of the top fours will win the series."

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ICC gives Pakistan Cricket Board 30 days to clamp down on corruption

Back track: the PCB has agreed not to make public comments regarding match-fixing after Ijaz Butt's clumsy accusations against England Photo: REUTERS

The PCB has signed a letter to the International Cricket Council agreeing to a series of steps to improve its handling of corruption issues.

Clarke, in his role as chairman of the ICC's Pakistan Task Force, persuaded the PCB to agree to a strict set of measures which will bring it in line with the rest of the cricketing world.

The PCB has agreed to implement an anti-corruption education programme for players and officials as well as not make public comments regarding match-fixing issues, a clear reference to Ijaz Butt's clumsy accusations against England.

A statement from the ICC hinted at sanctions against the PCB if it failed to adhere to the new guidelines and the ICC's increased involvement in the running of Pakistan cricket could be the first phase of a formal takeover of a dysfunctional board.

The ICC has cleared players and officials from England and Pakistan of any alleged fixing during a recent one-day international at the Brit Insurance Oval. The match was subject of an ICC investigation following a tip-off from the Sun newspaper. However, according to sources, the ICC anti-corruption police unearthed links to other ongoing fixing scandals during the course of their investigation into those allegations.

"We have stressed, without any comment on the present case, that we will not tolerate any form of corruption in cricket and that we will work tirelessly to root out those who have acted in a way which brings cricket into disrepute," Sharad Pawar, the chairman of the ICC, said.

"The matter of integrity is non-negotiable. Integrity and honesty are the bedrock of our game and ICC will protect that foundation stone with everything at its disposal."

The Pakistan players accused of spot-fixing during the Lord's Test against England – Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Asif and Salman Butt – will face an appeal hearing in Qatar on Oct 30.

The ICC meeting in Dubai on Wednesday also rubber-stamped proposals for a Test championship, which will result in the top four teams in the rankings system playing-off in a semi-final and final. The first tournament is due to take place in 2013 with Lord's a likely venue.

An extensive restructuring of international cricket also includes the formation of a one-day league with a final to mirror the Test championship and a reduction in the number of teams participating in the 50-over World Cup. That tournament has long been perceived to be overblown and from 2014 onwards will be contested by only 10 teams, four fewer than now. The carrot for smaller associate nations is increased places on offer for the World Twenty20, which will be expanded from 12 to 16 sides.

"Restructuring international cricket is a significant strategic challenge and one that must be dealt with," said Haroon Lorgat, the ICC chief executive. "We have now agreed in principle to exciting and far reaching proposals to tackle this important issue."

The ICC has also decided to remain based in Dubai after considering moving back to London.

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The Ashes 2010: Australia captain Ricky Ponting's world turned upside down by India

It was Sachin Tendulkar who administered the latest blow to Australia's self-esteem, stroking an unbeaten half-century to seal India's 2-0 series win. From the moment when Ponting was lbw to the excellent Zaheer Khan, late on Tuesday evening, the Bangalore Test had always looked to be heading India's way.

Their comfortable seven-wicket margin made it a routine victory by comparison with the last-ditch drama of Mohali, where Australian substitute fielder Steven Smith could have won the match with a direct hit from 15 yards.

Wednesday's result was another disappointment for Ponting, whose record as captain in India now stands at seven Tests, five defeats and two draws. Ironically, a broken thumb forced him out of most of the 2004 tour – the only time in the last 30 years when Australia have won a series there – and it was Adam Gilchrist who carried the Aussies over "the final frontier".

Speaking after the match, Ponting identified faults in every department of Australia's cricket. Their batting, he said, should not have been brushed aside so easily in the second innings, while the seamers had failed to match Zaheer in the dark arts of reverse-swing.

Most worryingly of all, Nathan Hauritz's off-spin was spanked all over the place, yielding the alarming figures of 12-0-76-1. It was a bleak day for Hauritz, if not quite as grim as Bryce McGain's one and only Test against South Africa, when the leg-spinner returned 18-2-149-0.

Australia's failure to find a spinner with even a fraction of Shane Warne's ability is the biggest single reason for Ashes optimism, especially when Graeme Swann seems to improve with each match.

Yet Warne has sympathy for his successors' plight. "How the hell can Hauritz bowl to this field?" he wrote on his Twitter page on Wednesday morning. "What are these tactics? Sorry Ricky but what are you doing?"

"Those are the fields [Hauritz] wants to bowl to," a frustrated Ponting returned on Wednesday night. "Unfortunately, it doesn't appear that Shane would take the time to ask anyone about that."

While the disagreement was relatively low-key, it may be symptomatic of growing disquiet in Australia about Ponting's record as captain. On the two biggest tours – England and India – his tally stands at four defeats from four Test series.

With the exception of the Hauritz debate, this Test probably had less to say about Australia's Ashes prospects than the last one. We already knew that they tend to struggle in subcontinental conditions, which are about as different from their own high-bouncing pitches as it is possible to get.

What was new in Mohali was the mental frailty that allowed the Indians to recover from 124 for eight to overhaul a target of 216. In his playing days, Warne always used to say that the Poms would crumble under pressure. But on the evidence of last year's denouement at the Brit Oval, it is now Ponting's mob who are flaking out at key moments.

Australia's tumble down the rankings ladder began just over a year ago, with that seismic defeat in South London. Since then, they have dropped more points against Pakistan and now India.

But that's where it will stop. Even in the unlikely event that England win the Ashes 5-0, Australia's ranking cannot get any worse for years to come, as there is a big gap between the five major Test teams and the others who make up the numbers.

Not that it is much consolation for a team who are used to lording it over all comers. Backdated records show that Australia have held an effective monopoly over Test cricket. If the rankings system had existed back between 1995 and 2009, they would have spent all but eight months at the top.

There are few things in sport more fascinating than the decline of a dynasty. Now, as results fall away around him, Ponting finds himself cast in an unenviable role: the last emperor of Australian cricket.

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Ricky Ponting: it takes five good days to win a test match

Published: 12:03PM BST 14 Oct 2010

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/sportvideo/cricketvideo/8063583/Ponting-it-takes-five-days-to-win-a-test-match.html

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Bangladesh secure historic win against New Zealand

Batting first, the Tigers set a competitive target of 242 thanks largely to skipper Shakib Al Hasan's superb 106 off 113 deliveries.

In reply, the New Zealand top order crumbled and despite Kane Williamson's 108 off 132 balls giving the visitors hope, Bangladesh held their nerve to bundle their opponents out for 232.

Bangladesh got off to a forgettable start, losing three key wickets within the first eight overs.

Shahriar Nafees was out to a golden duck from the second delivery of the day, new man Junaid Siddique (17) then fell in the fifth over, while Raqibul Hasan (six) departed in the eighth, becoming Hamish Bennett's first ODI victim.

With the hosts reeling at 44 for three, Shakib took the reigns with gusto, smashing a boundary off his first ball. He held fort for Bangladesh - hitting 11 fours and a six - and was part of three 50-plus partnerships along the way.

Imrul Kayes (37), Mushfiqur Rahim (13) and Mahmudullah (37) offered useful support to their captain, but with Shakib's dismissal in the 43rd over, no batsman could contribute much, the last four wickets falling for just 35 runs.

In response, New Zealand too lost three wickets within eight overs, with BJ Watling (six) the first to go followed by Brendon McCullum (21), who was brilliantly caught and bowled by Shafiul Islam, and Ross Taylor (three), caught at deep square leg by Islam off Suhrawadi Shuvo.

Wickets fell at regular intervals for the Black Caps, Aaron Redmond trapped lbw by Shakib in the 17th over, ending a 33-run stand, with captain Daniel Vettori joining him in the pavilion three overs later.

Grant Elliott (22) and Williamson brought the New Zealand batting back to life with a 70-run sixth-wicket partnership, but the former threw his wicket away in the 37th over, a high top edge well caught by Abdur Razzak.

Williamson battled through cramps to give his side a fighting chance, hitting six boundaries and two sixes en route to becoming the youngest New Zealander to score a one-day century.

The match went right down to the wire in the final few overs, with some wild slogs and a brilliant direct-hit run out (Nathan McCullum out for 33), before two catches ended the New Zealand effort.

Evergreen India veteran Sachin Tendulkar has returned to the top of the Test batsmen rankings for the first time since 2002 after his sparkling run of recent form.

Tendulkar's man-of-the-match display in the second Test against Australia this week was enough to secure him the number one spot eight years after he last occupied it.

The 37-year-old's 214 and unbeaten 53 inspired India to a seven-wicket win over the tourists and secured a 2-0 victory in the series. He jumped from fourth to edge out Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara and compatriot Virender Sehwag and top the ratings for the ninth time in his career.

His first spell at the top came in November 1994.

South Africa's Dale Steyn remains the leading Test bowler with England's Graeme Swann second.

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England's Ian Bell insists Australia remain Ashes favourites

“The first Test in India could have gone either way, Australia might have won it and if they had the series would not have been quite as bad as it looks,” Bell said.

“Playing in India is completely different to playing in Australia. Even though Australia will come back disappointed it will have no reflection on what we do in Australia.

“They didn’t lose a Test at home last year so they will still have the confidence of playing at home. They know how to win at home.

“I still believe, and I’m sure a lot of people do, that Australia have got to be favourites playing at home.

“They have come off the back off some real harsh results playing in England recently, but that’s playing in England in different conditions with a different ball. It’s a completely different game.

“We will have to adjust our game plans as well from playing in England and try to play an Aussie brand of cricket out there.”

England had no answer to Australia’s aggressive brand of cricket four years ago but Ponting is now captain of a side in transition.

Seven members of the side who tormented England four years ago — Justin Langer, Matthew Hayden, Damien Martyn, Adam Gilchrist, Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath and Brett Lee — have since retired from Test cricket. Bell is one of seven survivors from that series who will depart for Australia two weeks today.

“The team I played against in 2005 and again in 2006-07 was arguably one of the best teams of all time,” Bell said.

“It was a hell of a lesson early in my Test career to play them at home. This Australia team has different personnel, it’s a younger side and less experienced than the one I started against. But they will still have that Australian aggression. That’s also important for us. When we have played well we have played quite aggressive cricket as well.

“Last time we went to Australia believing that we could win. That got closed down very quickly and by the end we were getting annihilated.

“The last time we only had two or three who had played there, so we had minimal experience of what it took to play in Australia.

“Now have got seven guys who know what it takes to play in Australia. We have a match-winner in Kevin Pietersen and we have a bowling attack that is starting to emerge together nicely as it did in 2005.

"There are some nice signs but it counts for nothing when you get over there. The first day at Brisbane is where it all matters.”

Four years ago England played only one first-class match before the first Test and were under-prepared. This time they will play Western Australia, South Australia and Australia A before the first Test starts on November 25.

“Four years ago we went straight to Australia from an ICC Champions Trophy so we only had a couple of weeks of preparation,” Bell said.

“This time we are there for a month and the three warm-up games will be like three Test matches because you know that they just want to beat you every time.”

Somerset have emerged as favourites to sign seamer Gemaal Hussain, who has joined the exodus of senior players from Gloucestershire.

Hussain, 27, was the leading wicket-taker in this year’s County Championship second division with 67 but has turned down the offer of a contract extension from Gloucestershire.

Somerset, who have already signed paceman Steve Kirby from Gloucestershire, are believed to be close to completing the signing of Hussain though Hampshire have also made an approach for him.

Gloucestershire have also lost former Zimbabwe international seamer Anthony Ireland to Middlesex and Ireland batsman Will Porterfield to Warwickshire.

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Lord's 'Masterplan' set to be scaled down after summer of poor attendances

Redevelopment of the main ground will still go ahead, in line with the diagrams submitted by the cutting-edge Swiss architects Herzog and de Meuron.

But for the moment, the only areas that will be extended are the Compton and Edrich stands, the uncovered seating blocks on either side of the famous Media Centre. These will take in an extra 3,500 seats, lifting capacity to 32,000.

The other stands in need of overhaul are the Tavern, the Warner and the Allen, but these are more likely to be modernisations than expansions, unless attendances suddenly pick up.

The overall budget is hard to pin down, as the project will take at least a decade to complete, but current projections place it between £140 million and £190 million — a subtle shift from initial forecasts of well over £200 million.

The planning behind what the MCC call their “Vision for Lord’s” began in 2007, before the credit crunch hit home. It was also a time when Lord’s could confidently expect to land two Tests every summer, but this has now been thrown into doubt by the arrival of Cardiff’s Swalec Stadium and the Rose Bowl as Test grounds.

The expansion of the ground was always provisional, based on the surety of Test-match cricket in the future. But the MCC have not been able to win any guarantees from the England and Wales Cricket Board, and the whole structure of the Test bidding process is being reviewed by the consultancy firm Deloittes.

The climate of uncertainty in sport extends beyond cricket, with attendances at some Premier League football grounds shrinking under the pressure of economic austerity. Wolverhampton Wanderers, for instance, may have to reconsider their plan to add 8,000 seats to Molineux when they are struggling to sell out the 29,000 they already have.

Back at Lord’s, another part of the MCC’s vision involved building five towers of flats along the Wellington Road side of the ground, and using the resulting income to set up an underground complex — probably housing an indoor cricket centre and a sports-injury clinic — beneath the Nursery Ground.

While sporting attendances may be in flux, the value of property in St John’s Wood remains at a premium, and the MCC are pressing on confidently with the most eye-catching parts of their scheme.

They have commissioned dramatic artists’ impressions showing steps leading to a catacomb underneath the Nursery Ground pitch — a complex that is likely to offer a new home to the venerable Lord’s museum. The drawings also suggest that the patchwork of buildings behind the pavilion side of the main ground may be razed to create an extended version of the Coronation Gardens.

Lord’s already attracts many spectators because it is seen as a special day out — an asset that helps it bring in decent crowds during B-list fixtures such as the recent neutral Test between Pakistan and Australia. These improvements are only likely to add to its appeal.

The major building project will open up the railway tunnels underneath the Nursery Ground to release a massive quantity of valuable NW8 real estate.

The MCC confirmed that they are currently evaluating tenders from three shortlisted development companies in their search for the ‘Vision for Lord’s’ partner.

Almacantar, Capital & Counties and Native Land have now submitted their financial proposals and the club are about to begin the process of deciding which version they favour, starting on Monday. But the project still has a lengthy road to travel before the diggers arrive on site.

“Evaluating the financial proposals for this first phase is a very detailed process and these tenders will be carefully considered over the coming weeks,” said Keith Bradshaw, MCC secretary and chief executive.

“In all our deliberations, and as we question the developers in response to their bids, we must be mindful of the long term economic picture and the changing nature of the game itself.”

Planning permission has yet to be applied for, on the basis that the Herzog and de Meuron diagrams are bound to be adjusted — to a lesser or greater extent — by whichever developer is awarded the contract. And even before that can happen, the members will have to approve the blueprint for the project. That consultation is expected to begin early in the new year.

The best laid plans...

The residential development: Five tower blocks, comprising 156 homes that add up to 380,000 square feet. With a 30 per cent premium above the going rate for St John’s Wood, the value of the property would be in about £750 million.

The Nursery Ground basement: To contain an indoor cricket centre and the museum, as well as a pavilion and bar. The Nursery Ground to grow by 20 per cent, allowing first-class cricket to be staged, easing fixture congestion.

Access: The wall around Lord’s to be replaced with railings, creating a less forbidding exterior. Plans to create a dedicated Lord’s station in the disused Chiltern Line tunnels have have been dropped.

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Jim White: rise of poor Pohnpei is one in the eye for world rankings

 Enjoying the moment: India's victory over Australia means they have now lost three Test matches on the bounce for the first time since 1988 Photo: AP

Lying at the bottom of RoonBa's world rankings, the list which sifts the detritus below even the official Fifa order, this is a country that had never, in its history, won a match.

With annual rainfall double that of Blaenau Ffestiniog, a local obesity rate of 90 per cent and a training pitch that is home to thousands of mating toads, at the time it did not look like that its ignominious title was under any real threat.

Well, this week, comes amazing news: Pohnpei are on the up. Even as England were toiling against Montenegro, for the first time ever the islanders triumphed in a 90-minute match, albeit against a club side from neighbouring Guam. And more to the point, it was a victory engineered by an English coach.

"It's just amazing how hard these lads have worked," said Paul Watson, younger brother of the comedian Mark Watson. "We have put them through 5am sessions before work, not to mention the hours spent on our waterlogged pitch."

Perhaps sensing he has taken Pohnpei as far as he can, Watson is now on his way home, to seek further footballing opportunities here. A youthful, winning English coach with foreign experience: someone alert the Football Association.

Australia’s failings worth double take

The full houses which greeted the Indian cricket team's victory over Australia in Bangalore have led some commentators to herald the return of the primacy of the Test match, for so long withering in the subcontinental shadow of Twenty20.

It may be a little premature for such certainty.

As the attendances at Commonwealth Games archery, hockey and badminton demonstrated, the Indian public will come out in droves to watch their sports people win.

It was not to do with the format: in truth the crowds would have been huge had Sachin Tendulkar's lads been triumphant in tiddlywinks.

Still, those who were there will have been observers of a moment of history: with their 2-0 defeat to India, Australia have now lost three Test matches on the bounce for the first time since 1988.

We can only gloat in its repetition: the Australian cricket team have now lost three Test matches on the bounce for the first time since 1988.

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