Crowe in new role for NZ

Christchurch: Former New Zealand captain Martin Crowe has taken over as national team’s batting consultant, giving up his job as a cricket commentator to avoid conflict of interest. “I will be helping national coach Mark (Greatbatch) behind the scenes with one or two players and it’s difficult to do both (jobs),” Crowe told a newspaper. Crowe, who is already helping players like Ross Taylor, has been appointed for Test matches.

Azhar support

Washington: Backing Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan on the Pakistani players’ participation in the Indian Premier League, cricketer-turned-politician Mohammad Azharuddin said the Twenty20 event should feature the world’s best players irrespective of their nationality. “I feel all the good players from different countries should participate in such a big tournament,” Azharuddin said.

Imran view

Lahore: Former Pakistan captain Imran Khan on Sunday called for an end to ad-hocism and government interference in Pakistan cricket which he said have been damaging the game in the country. “Ad-hocism, the influence of departmental teams and the practice of the President being chief patron of the cricket board are the three major causes for our cricket problems,” Imran said at a show.

Md.Sp. draw

Kannur: Mohammedan Sporting drew with Viva Kerala 2-2 in the inaugural match of the E K Nayanar Memorial Gold Cup football tournament here Sunday. For hosts Viva Kerala, V. K. Shibinlal scored both the goals. Sasthi Duley and Sovan Chakraborty equalised for Mohammedan Sporting.