The Sports Matrix: Thursday 31 March 2011
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.Capello: We can play like Germany
Fabio Capello has raised hopes that his England team could emulate the current German generation of players: “I hope that people will talk about us like they did about Germany,” he said. “These players are improving a lot and playing with confidence.” MORE
Robson confident of cancer recovery
Bryan Robson is to return to Thailand to undergo radiotherapy treatment for throat cancer. The 54-year-old former England captain, who is the manager of the Thai national side, is “confident” of a full recovery after a Harley Street consultation. MORE
Westwood upbeat on major chances
One week before the Masters, Lee Westwood thinks he can finally win amajor, having come so close last year. “I know I’m good enough to contend in each and every major I play,” he tells i. “Hopefully it’ll work out in the end.” MORE
England build 4-3-3 around Wilshere
England are likely to stick with the 4-3-3 formation after recent successes, as it is the best system for the emerging Jack Wilshere, who plays that way at Arsenal. What is less clear is where Steven Gerrard will slot in when he is fit again. MORE
Spurs consider stadium legal move
Tottenham Hotspur have written to the Olympic Park Legacy Company, the Mayor of London, the Minister for Sport and Newham Council “raising concerns” with the decision to hand the Olympic Stadium toWest Ham. They may later seek a judicial review. MORE
England search for 2012 base in Poland
England have started their search for a Euro 2012 base camp, and are likely to favour Poland over Ukraine, owing to the superior facilities. Germany have already decided on Poland and their early preparations mean they may well get the pick of the locations. MORE
Hanagan’s winning return to title fray
Champion jockey Paul Hanagan and Miss Work of Art were decisive winners on the first day of the new Flat season at Lingfield yesterday. “She was a little bit green early, but once the penny dropped she came home well,” Hanagan said afterwards. MORE
Uefa talks tough on financial fair play
Uefa warned yesterday that it would move to close any loopholes if it finds clubs trying to evade new financial fair-play rules. Failure to abide by the rules, and to balance the books, could lead to teams being banned from European competition. MORE
Sale nearing deal to sign Tuitupou
Sale are closing in on All Black centre Sam Tuitupou and hope to tie him to a two-year deal over the next few days. Tuitupou plays for Munster, having left Worcester last year. Sale have been busy recruiting since Steve Diamond returned as chief executive. MORE
Opinion: James Lawton
As Sir Alf Ramsey knew, 4-3-3 is the best vehicle for a significant England challenge. Fabio Capello has embraced it to an enthusiastic response. He likes the clear lines of responsibility and the creative scope that it provides. MORE
Tendulkar guides India into the final
Sachin Tendulkar steered India to a 29-run win over Pakistan yesterday and into Saturday’s final against Sri Lanka in Mumbai. He was dropped four times by Pakistan, and went on to anchor his side’s innings with a score of 85. India started very briskly, and Virender Sehwag scored 38 from 25 balls. But the hosts struggled to build on that platform, and reached just 260 from their 50 overs, despite a late unbeaten 36 from Suresh Raina. There were nerves among the India fans and Pakistan’s response started steadily but slipped slowly behind the required rate thanks to some tight Indian bowling. Misbah-ul-Haq top-scored for Pakistan with 56, but his hitting could not drag his side up to the total and they were bowled out for 231 on the penultimate ball. MORE
Security high for tense semi-final
There was heavy security outside the ground in Mohali for yesterday’s semi-final between India and Pakistan, with bags being searched and fans asked to arrive at least four hours before the match started. The countries’ Prime Ministers were in attendance. MORE
Widnes favourites for Super licence
Widnes look likely to be granted a Super League spot today under the league’s licensing system. Barrow and Halifax are in contention, but Widnes are seen as the most commercially viable option. The licence will run for three years. MORE
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments