The sporting week ahead (19/08/12)
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Today
Welcome back to the top flight, Southampton. Your first task: Manchester City away. Doddle. Chelsea travel to Wigan wondering if their extraordinary end to last season can carry over into the new one. And if you're in the vicinity of a place called Barnoldswick in Lancashire, it's your chance to get on your bike and "Ride with Brad" as the most famous Briton – after Mo? – launches the Bradley Wiggins Foundation to get more people to be physically active. Just don't try and beat him. It won't happen.
Tomorrow
Manchester United begin their bid to topple champions City with a visit to Everton, presumably with Robin van Persie in the vanguard. Will it be another remarkable season for him, or another one spent on crutches? Meanwhile England's Test cricketers will know by the end of play if they are still the best in the world.
Tuesday
Steffon Armitage is due up before the beak, well the French Rugby Federation, over a positive dope test after he took a couple of paracetamol, allegedly. There could be a bitter pill to swallow for the England flanker.
Wednesday
Wonder horse Frankel races into uncharted territory over a mile and a quarter at York, where the Usain Bolt of the equine world goes up against his Yohan Blake stablemate, Twice Over. And fires will be lit on the summits of the highest peaks of the four home nations: Scafell Pike in England, Snowdon in Wales, Ben Nevis in Scotland and Slieve Donard in Northern Ireland, at the start of the Paralympics torch relay. The flames will then be taken in miners' lamps to each of the four capital cities.
Thursday
Liverpool's Europa League campaign continues with a trip up to Heart of Midlothian, while Newcastle United head for Atromitos – which is in the suburbs of Athens, apparently. The Johnnie Walker Championship begins at Gleneagles, the last tournament before the rest of the European Ryder Cup team is announced on Monday.
Friday
The Paralympic flame reaches London with a cauldron being lit in Trafalgar Square. England begin their one-day series against South Africa in Cardiff, hoping not to lose their No 1 status in that format as well – the tourists have the same number of points as them.
Saturday
The pick of the Premier League action is Newcastle's visit to Chelsea, while Wembley will be roaring for rugby league's Challenge Cup final between Leeds and Warrington. And it's Twenty20 Finals Day in Cardiff, with Essex, Yorkshire, Hampshire and Somerset slugging it out.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments