Max Purcell has roared to life and given home fans some cheer with a landmark first-round Australian Open victory. Australian tennis’s most improved performer recovered from a labouring start to post a 3-6 7-6 (7-2) 6-4 7-5 win over Hungarian qualifier Mate Valkusz at Kia… Read More »‘You really helped me’: Purcell digs deep to reach Australian Open second round
Steve Smith’s shift to open the batting has instantly rejuvenated the 34-year-old to a surprising extent, Australia’s Test captain Pat Cummins says. Cummins has never seen Smith as cheerful and lively as the stalwart has been while preparing for his 106th Test, against the West… Read More »‘Happy and energetic’ Smith instantly revitalised by opening shift, says Cummins
Young paceman Shamar Joseph – who quit his job as a security guard a year ago to pursue his dream of playing first class cricket – is one of three West Indies debutants picked to face Australia in the first Test in Adelaide. While the… Read More »‘Rose that grew from concrete’: Windies tyro’s incredible 12 month rise from bouncer to Tests, Smith’s ‘mind whirring’
World Cup All Black Dalton Papalii has been stripped of the Auckland Blues captaincy by new coach Vern Cotter with former skipper returning to the helm. Lock Patrick Tuipulotu is back as captain having given up the role to play in Japan two seasons ago.… Read More »Rugby News: All Black demoted in ruthless captaincy call, Jake White expects to be ‘killed’ for 6N view, Kiwi ace joins Force
Centre-back Kye Rowles is confident the Socceroos’ woeful set pieces in their opening Asian Cup win over India were a one-off as they eye better bang for their buck against Syria. Set pieces have been a reliable route to goal for the Socceroos, with towering… Read More »Lack of set piece threat a heads up for Socceroos – but in Harry they trust