Gilchrist wary of unpredictable Pak

Perth: Australian vice-captain Adam Gilchrist has warned his team against writing off Pakistan ahead of Thursday’s first Test, saying b...

Perth: Australian vice-captain Adam Gilchrist has warned his team against writing off Pakistan ahead of Thursday’s first Test, saying both their batting and bowling could turn a match in moments. “All of us have seen Pakistan blow hot and cold, whether it’s a tour match or an international game, so we’ll be wary of them still,” Gilchrist said. Gilchrist echoed the sentiments of opening batsman Justin Langer who said Shoaib Akhtar, the world’s fastest bowler, remained a trump card for Pakistan. “They have that ability and the attacking flair of their players and Shoaib is a prime example,” he said. “He’s done it to us before, you give him a bowling spell where he can come on, particularly with reverse swing at his pace, and he can take five for 20 in one spell and totally end an innings.

England lose despite Vaughan ton

POTCHEFSTROOM: A Michael Vaughan century could not save England as South Africa A thumped them by seven wickets in a three-day tour match at Sedgars Park on Monday. Another poor batting performance by England — they were dismissed for 190 in their second innings after resuming on 154 for seven on Monday — left the hosts needing just 134 to win. England’s last hope came from the weather but the sun returned despite an hour-and-a-half’s play being lost to rain just after lunch on the final day. Without Vaughan, England’s humiliation would have been complete.

ICC’s change of base

LONDON: The ICC has failed to receive tax concessions from the UK government and would now take a final decision on shifting its headquarters during an emergency meeting later this week. Though Malaysia is a probable venue, the ICC is more likely to shift base to Dubai.

— Agencies