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Tag: fixtures

  • Behind the scenes at Alexandra Palace: Welcome to the World Darts Championship 2024

    Behind the scenes at Alexandra Palace: Welcome to the World Darts Championship 2024

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    We take a look behind the scenes at what goes into preparing the World Darts Championship at the Alexandra Palace; The World Darts Championship runs from December 15, 2023 to January 3, 2024 – live on Sky Sports Darts

    Last Updated: 15/12/23 4:42pm

    The World Darts Championship will take over the Alexandra Palace until January 3

    The calm before the storm – the final preparations are well under way at Alexandra Palace.

    The seats are all set out, the fan area has beer and food aplenty, and the stage is looking as special as ever in luminous green.

    The long green carpet to the fan area leads you into a mix of games, fun, and charity.

    A chance to play darts against the best, food and drink galore, and most excitingly, your chance to recreate Wayne Mardle and Stuart Pyke’s iconic commentary from the 2023 final greet you in the space that will soon be packed out by thousands.

    Come 5.30pm, when fans are all set with their pitchers of beer, they can head into the arena which is dominating in its proximity to the stage.

    The rows of tables are all dutifully lined up and the flashing lights are ready to put on a show with the fans up close and personal with the players they have come to watch.

    Watch how Wayne Mardle and Stuart Pyke reacted to the sensational leg between Michael van Gerwen and Michael Smith in the World Championship final that culminated in a nine-darter for Bully Boy

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    Watch how Wayne Mardle and Stuart Pyke reacted to the sensational leg between Michael van Gerwen and Michael Smith in the World Championship final that culminated in a nine-darter for Bully Boy

    Watch how Wayne Mardle and Stuart Pyke reacted to the sensational leg between Michael van Gerwen and Michael Smith in the World Championship final that culminated in a nine-darter for Bully Boy

    The former winners adorn the walls in a constant reminder of how big this tournament is and the walk on area, although shorter in person, is as intimidating as ever – never mind when 1,000s of fans are watching on.

    “Stand up if you love the darts” is the message that is on the walls alongside “it is the most wonderful time of the year” and for most who will visit the Ally Pally over the next six weeks, it is wonderful because of the darting show they will witness.

    We take a look inside the St Helen's darts club that produced Michael Smith, Luke Littler and others to see how they inspire young players

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    We take a look inside the St Helen’s darts club that produced Michael Smith, Luke Littler and others to see how they inspire young players

    We take a look inside the St Helen’s darts club that produced Michael Smith, Luke Littler and others to see how they inspire young players

    Last year brought the greatest leg of darts ever seen, and now it is time to find out what from this tournament will live on in darting history…

    Watch the World Darts Championship from December 15, 2023 to January 3, 2024 – live on Sky Sports Darts. Stream your favourite sports and more with NOW

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  • (Sky Sports)

    (Sky Sports)

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    West Indies 1st innings

    Total

    176 for 7, from 20 overs.

    Batting

    Runs
    Balls
    4s
    6s
    SR

    1. King
      not out;
      82 runs,
      52 balls,
      8 fours,
      5 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 157.69
    2. Mayers
      c Curran b Woakes;
      17 runs,
      16 balls,
      2 fours,
      1 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 106.25
    3. Pooran (wk)
      c Woakes b Rashid;
      5 runs,
      5 balls,
      1 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 100.00
    4. Hope
      b Ahmed;
      1 runs,
      3 balls,
      0 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 33.33
    5. Hetmyer
      c Ali b Rashid;
      2 runs,
      5 balls,
      0 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 40.00
    6. Powell (c)
      c Brook b Curran;
      50 runs,
      28 balls,
      3 fours,
      5 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 178.57
    7. Russell
      b Mills;
      14 runs,
      10 balls,
      0 fours,
      2 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 140.00
    8. Holder
      c Livingstone b Mills;
      0 runs,
      1 balls,
      0 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 0.00

    Yet to bat

    Fall of Wickets

    • Kyle Mayers at 43 for 1, from 5.4 overs
    • Nicholas Pooran at 48 for 2, from 6.3 overs
    • Shai Hope at 51 for 3, from 7.2 overs
    • Shimron Hetmyer at 54 for 4, from 8.2 overs
    • Rovman Powell at 134 for 5, from 15.6 overs
    • Andre Russell at 176 for 6, from 19.5 overs
    • Jason Holder at 176 for 7, from 19.6 overs

    Bowling

    Overs
    Maidens
    Runs
    Wickets
    Econ

    1. Ali:
      2overs,
      0 maidens,
      15 runs,
      0 wickets,
      and an economy of 7.50.
    2. Woakes:
      4overs,
      0 maidens,
      34 runs,
      1 wickets,
      and an economy of 8.50.
    3. Curran:
      2overs,
      0 maidens,
      38 runs,
      1 wickets,
      and an economy of 19.00.
    4. Rashid:
      4overs,
      0 maidens,
      11 runs,
      2 wickets,
      and an economy of 2.75.
    5. Ahmed:
      4overs,
      0 maidens,
      47 runs,
      1 wickets,
      and an economy of 11.75.
    6. Mills:
      4overs,
      0 maidens,
      30 runs,
      2 wickets,
      and an economy of 7.50.

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  • Eddie Jones denies early Japan talks: I don’t feel any guilt about process

    Eddie Jones denies early Japan talks: I don’t feel any guilt about process

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    Eddie Jones says he doesn’t feel guilty at all about his process of joining Japan after it was rumoured he was in talks with the Japanese Rugby Football Union while coaching Australia at the World Cup.

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  • (Sky Sports)

    (Sky Sports)

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    India Women 1st innings

    Total

    29 for 1, from 6.3 overs.

    Batting

    Runs
    Balls
    4s
    6s
    SR

    1. Mandhana
      b Bell;
      17 runs,
      12 balls,
      3 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 141.67
    2. Verma
      not out;
      7 runs,
      22 balls,
      1 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 31.82
    3. Satheesh
      not out;
      4 runs,
      5 balls,
      1 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 80.00

    Yet to bat

    • Kaur
    • Rodrigues
    • Sharma
    • Bhatia
    • Rana
    • Vastrakar
    • Renuka Singh Thakur
    • Gayakwad

    Fall of Wickets

    • Smriti Mandhana at 25 for 1, from 5.1 overs

    Bowling

    Overs
    Maidens
    Runs
    Wickets
    Econ

    1. Cross:
      3.3overs,
      0 maidens,
      9 runs,
      0 wickets,
      and an economy of 2.57.
    2. Bell:
      3overs,
      0 maidens,
      19 runs,
      1 wickets,
      and an economy of 6.33.

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  • Bronny James: LeBron James’ son makes college basketball debut for USC Trojans five months after cardiac arrest

    Bronny James: LeBron James’ son makes college basketball debut for USC Trojans five months after cardiac arrest

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    Bronny James made his college basketball debut for the USC Trojans on Sunday, having suffered a cardiac arrest during a workout at the team’s Galen Center home court on June 20; NBA icon LeBron James was in attendance to watch his son in action as the Trojans faced Long Beach State

    Last Updated: 11/12/23 8:14am

    Bronny James made his college basketball debut barely five months after suffering a cardiac arrest

    Bronny James, the son of NBA icon LeBron James, expressed gratitude for everyone who supported him after he made his college debut for Southern California nearly five months after he suffered cardiac arrest.

    James suffered the cardiac arrest on July 20 during a workout at Galen Center and was found to have a congenital heart defect which was treatable. He was recently cleared by his doctors and USC’s medical staff to participate in full-contact practice, having been limited to working out on his own doing weights, cardio and shooting.

    The 19-year-old guard had four points, three rebounds and two assists on Sunday, coming off the bench to play in front of his superstar father, but could not help prevent the Trojans losing in overtime to Long Beach State, 84-79.

    James walked off with his deflated team-mates and did not greet his father who sat courtside, but did make a brief statement to a horde of assembled journalists afterwards.

    “I just want to say I’m thankful for everything,” James said, along with thanking the Mayo Clinic, where he received treatment, as well as his parents, siblings, Trojans head coach Andy Enfield and his team-mates “during this hard time in my life”.

    In total, James logged 16 minutes, including starting the five-minute extra session, but he was not a factor then before coming out for the last time. He was 1 of 3 shooting, hitting a three-pointer in the second half.

    His biggest impression came on the defensive side though. All of James’ rebounds were on the defensive glass and he had two steals.

    Live NCAA Basketball

    December 13, 2023, 12:00am

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    “I thought Bronny played well,” Enfield said. “He defended at a high level. He guarded the quick ballhandlers on the other team pretty well.

    “It was exciting for everybody to see him out there and I’m sure his family was the most excited.”

    Enfield added James’ minutes would continue to be monitored by USC’s medical staff.

    He played six minutes in the first half, when the Trojans led 45-30 at the break. In his second three-minute stint, James made a huge block on Jadon Jones, who was streaking to the basket on a fast break, riling up the fans.

    Lebron James and his daughter Zhuri Nova walk past Bronny James ahead of USC's clash with Long Beach State

    Lebron James and his daughter Zhuri Nova walk past Bronny James ahead of USC’s clash with Long Beach State

    James was quick to pass to his team-mates, even when it appeared he could have taken a shot, and assisted on a dunk by Vincent Iwuchukwu, who also suffered cardiac arrest as a freshman. He returned to play 14 games last season.

    “It’s great to see Bronny out there, he’s put a lot of work in the gym,” Iwuchukwu said. “We talked before the game, and I told him to go out there and have fun.”

    James entered the game for the first time about seven minutes in, with some in the crowd standing and cheering. He missed his first shot, a three-point attempt.

    Moments before, he tipped the ball away from a Long Beach State player, but the visitors got it back. The possession ended in a shot-clock violation for the Beach. James also snagged a rebound.

    A fan holds up a sign for Bronny James ahead of USC's game

    A fan holds up a sign for Bronny James ahead of USC’s game

    “He makes the right play all the time,” Boogie Ellis, USC’s top guard, said. “Everybody wants a guy like that on their team. He defends well at a high level.”

    LeBron James arrived seconds before the national anthem, holding hands with nine-year-old daughter, Zhuri as he passed the Trojans who were lined up across the court for the anthem.

    The younger James’ debut capped a big weekend for the family after LeBron helped the Lakers win the NBA’s new In-Season Tournament on Saturday night in Las Vegas, earning everyone on the team a $500,000-per-person payday.

    The NBA was well-represented in the game. One of James’ team-mates is DJ Rodman, the son of Dennis Rodman, who fouled out. The Beach’s roster includes Chayce Polynice, the son of 15-year NBA veteran Olden Polynice.

    James joined his team-mates for on-court warmups 90 minutes before tipoff. Wearing a white USC shirt and red sweatpants, he took a variety of jumpers under the watchful lenses of a baseline full of photographers.

    Students lined up around one side of Galen Center and down an adjacent street waiting to get inside. Although there were pockets of empty seats in the 10,258-seat arena, James’ debut helped the Trojans draw their largest crowd of 9,806 this season.

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  • Beau Greaves clinches second WDF World Championship title with win vs Aileen de Graaf at Lakeside

    Beau Greaves clinches second WDF World Championship title with win vs Aileen de Graaf at Lakeside

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    England’s Beau Greaves, 19, picks up her second consecutive WDF World Championship title, beating Dutch player Aileen de Graaf 4-1 in the final of a dominant tournament performance and success at Lakeside

    Last Updated: 10/12/23 7:53pm

    Beau Greaves has secured the second WDF World Championship title of her career

    Beau Greaves beat Aileen de Graaf 4-1 to clinch the second WDF World Championship title of her darting career at Lakeside.

    Defending world champion Greaves produced one of the highest averages in the history of the Women’s World Championship as she beat Rhian O’Sullivan 3-0 in the semi-finals on Saturday, with the 19-year-old finishing on a 90.77 average, and it was much of the same from her in the final.

    Greaves’ imperious form continued to take the first set of the final, winning successive legs in 17 and 18 darts to take it 3-1.

    Greaves swept the second set 3-0 to double her lead going into the break, before also winning the third set despite De Graaf breaking Greaves’ throw to get one on the board – the latter instead took it it 3-2 to move within three legs of a second World Championship title.

    De Graaf then won three legs on the spin to take the fourth set – the first Greaves dropped all tournament – and force the final past the second break. Yet, Greaves showed her class to comfortably close out the match 3-0 in the fifth set.

    Greaves’ run to the trophy

    Round 2 – Beau Greaves 2-0 Lorraine Hyde

    Quarter-final – Beau Greaves 2-0 Paula Murphy

    Semi-final – Beau Greaves 3-0 Rhian O’Sullivan

    Final – Beau Greaves 4-1 Aileen de Graaf

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  • LIVE STREAM: Watch England vs South Africa in third match of Vitality Netball International Series

    LIVE STREAM: Watch England vs South Africa in third match of Vitality Netball International Series

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    The Vitality Roses welcome South Africa in their first home series since winning a Netball World Cup silver medal this summer; the three-match tournament concludes on Sunday December 10 at 1.45pm, live on Sky Sports Mix and YouTube

    Last Updated: 10/12/23 2:24pm

    Watch England take on South Africa in the third game of their three-match Vitality Netball International Series via our free live stream.

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    LIVE NETBALL! England vs South Africa | Vitality International Series

    LIVE NETBALL! England vs South Africa | Vitality International Series

    The Vitality Roses welcome South Africa in their first home series since winning a Netball World Cup silver medal this summer. The three-match tournament started in Manchester, as England won Game 1 before South Africa sent the series to a decider by winning Game 2.

    Watch the Game 3 deciding clash by clicking play on the video at the top of this page – live coverage gets under way from 1.45pm.

    You can watch England take on South Africa in their home series between December 5-10, live on Sky Sports. Stream the netball and more with NOW.

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  • (Sky Sports)

    (Sky Sports)

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    India Women 1st innings

    Total

    33 for 4, from 6 overs.

    Batting

    Runs
    Balls
    4s
    6s
    SR

    1. Verma
      lbw b Dean;
      0 runs,
      2 balls,
      0 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 0.00
    2. Mandhana
      lbw b Dean;
      10 runs,
      9 balls,
      2 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 111.11
    3. Rodrigues
      not out;
      9 runs,
      12 balls,
      0 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 75.00
    4. Kaur (c)
      lbw b Sciver-Brunt;
      9 runs,
      7 balls,
      2 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 128.57
    5. Sharma
      c Jones b Bell;
      0 runs,
      2 balls,
      0 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 0.00
    6. Ghosh (wk)
      not out;
      4 runs,
      4 balls,
      1 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 100.00

    Yet to bat

    • Vastrakar
    • Patil
    • Sadhu
    • Renuka Singh Thakur
    • Ishaque

    Fall of Wickets

    • Shafali Verma at 0 for 1, from 0.2 overs
    • Smriti Mandhana at 17 for 2, from 3.2 overs
    • Harmanpreet Kaur at 28 for 3, from 4.5 overs
    • Deepti Sharma at 29 for 4, from 5.2 overs

    Bowling

    Overs
    Maidens
    Runs
    Wickets
    Econ

    1. Dean:
      2overs,
      0 maidens,
      4 runs,
      2 wickets,
      and an economy of 2.00.
    2. Bell:
      2overs,
      0 maidens,
      14 runs,
      1 wickets,
      and an economy of 7.00.
    3. Sciver-Brunt:
      2overs,
      0 maidens,
      15 runs,
      1 wickets,
      and an economy of 7.50.

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  • The Verdict: ‘Wasteful’ Tottenham drop further down the table

    The Verdict: ‘Wasteful’ Tottenham drop further down the table

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    Michael Bridge and Ben Grounds react to West Ham’s second-half comeback as a ‘wasteful’ Tottenham squanders another lead and drop further down the table.

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  • Aberdeen 0-1 Kilmarnock | Scottish Premiership highlights

    Aberdeen 0-1 Kilmarnock | Scottish Premiership highlights

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    Highlights from the Scottish Premiership match between Aberdeen and Kilmarnock.

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  • The Verdict: No Nations League finals or Olympics will help England for Euros

    The Verdict: No Nations League finals or Olympics will help England for Euros

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    The Telegraph’s Tom Garry joins Gail Davis to discuss England’s failure to qualify for the Nations League finals and Olympic Games.

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  • Mosconi Cup 2023: Jayson Shaw ready to give as good as he gets for Team Europe’s defence against Team USA

    Mosconi Cup 2023: Jayson Shaw ready to give as good as he gets for Team Europe’s defence against Team USA

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    Marc Bazeley

    @MarcBazeley

    Team Europe vice-captain Jayson Shaw is anticipating another rowdy atmosphere when he and his team-mates take on America’s best nine-ball players in defence of the Mosconi Cup; Watch the 2023 Mosconi Cup live on Sky Sports Arena from Wednesday, December 6 (6.30pm)

    Last Updated: 04/12/23 5:38pm

    Team Europe vice-captain Jayson Shaw is ready for another rowdy Mosconi Cup clash with Team USA

    In the three-decade history of the Mosconi Cup, there is arguably no one who has got under the skin of their opponents quite like Earl Strickland.

    The American pool icon’s confrontations with opposing players and referees, and outbursts at the crowd, made him something of a pantomime villain for Team Europe supporters too. So, it would perhaps be wise not to try to provoke the master of the mind games.

    That is, of course, unless you happen to be Jayson Shaw. Because, last year, the Scottish cueist showed no compunction about mimicking Strickland in putting his ear to the crowd when he beat the three-time nine-ball world champion on enemy turf in Las Vegas last year.

    Jayson Shaw mimicked his opponent Earl Strickland as Team Europe had the better of Day 2 of the 2022 Mosconi Cup against the USA.

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    Jayson Shaw mimicked his opponent Earl Strickland as Team Europe had the better of Day 2 of the 2022 Mosconi Cup against the USA.

    Jayson Shaw mimicked his opponent Earl Strickland as Team Europe had the better of Day 2 of the 2022 Mosconi Cup against the USA.

    This year’s playing vice-captain for Europe embraces that side of the annual clash with the best nine-ball players the USA has to offer and is going to be doing his best to get the home fans creating a raucous atmosphere at Alexandra Palace.

    “Vegas last year was a little bit rowdy with their fans and I think their fans have started picking up that they need to be more like the European fans,” Shaw told Sky Sports News ahead of the 2023 Mosconi Cup, which starts on Wednesday, December 6 live on Sky Sports.

    “This year, I’m going to make sure the fans are really on it. I get a lot of stick, but I give a lot too.

    “You’ve got to take the good with the bad and there’s always a lot of rivalry in the team, but now you’ve got a little bit more.”

    Strickland will not be adding to his 15 appearances for Team USA at this year’s tournament, but Shaw already has his eye on winding up another member of the opposition in former Team Europe player Fedor Gorst.

    The Russia-born 2019 world nine-ball champion represented Europe in the Covid-affected 2020 tournament behind closed doors in Coventry as the hosts triumphed 11-3. However, gaining permanent residency in the USA means Gorst has been able to switch allegiance.

    That means the player who was at one point ranked No 2 in Europe’s Race to the Mosconi Cup standings will be lining up for Jeremy Jones’ team as they seek to regain the trophy they last held in 2019, and Shaw has already been engaging in some good-natured ribbing of Gorst.

    “Terrible,” Shaw said jokingly of his reaction to Gorst switching sides, adding: “Obviously, it’s his decision, right?

    This year, I’m going to make sure the fans are really on it. I get a lot of stick, but I give a lot too.

    Team Europe vice-captain Jayson Shaw

    “It’s up to him to do what he wants to do, but I don’t think I could ever do that, and I think there are a few other players who couldn’t do that.

    “He’s going to pay the price for doing that and he’s going to get a lot of heat for that this week. I’ve already been giving him a lot of stick for that, but he takes it well and he’s a good person.

    “He’s a great player and I’m sure he’s going to play well, but I’m going to try to make him play not so well.”

    As for his form on the table, Shaw heads into the Mosconi Cup ranked fifth in the World Nineball Tour rankings and having claimed his first title on the tour with a thrilling 13-12 win over Europe team-mate Albin Ouschan in October’s Hanoi Open final.

    It could hardly have been better preparation for the upcoming clash with the Americans either, with the two-time Mosconi Cup Most Valuable Player feeling the tournament in the Vietnamese capital city was as close as a singles tournament gets to those matches.

    Jayson Shaw won the inaugural Hanoi Open Pool Championship after defeating Albin Ouschan, sparking wild celebrations on top of the pool table!

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    Jayson Shaw won the inaugural Hanoi Open Pool Championship after defeating Albin Ouschan, sparking wild celebrations on top of the pool table!

    Jayson Shaw won the inaugural Hanoi Open Pool Championship after defeating Albin Ouschan, sparking wild celebrations on top of the pool table!

    “When I saw the venue and the crowd it reminded me of the Mosconi Cup and when I went out there it felt like I was playing Mosconi Cup matches,” Shaw said. “It was great preparation for this week.

    “At the start of the year, a lot of things weren’t really going for me, but I’ve just tried to stay positive, keep working on my game, working on myself, and I feel like I’m in a good position now.

    “I’m playing well, I feel good in myself and I’m looking forward to it.”

    Shaw has been playing a big part in Europe’s preparations for their defence of the Mosconi Cup too, setting up a pre-tournament camp at his sister’s pool hall in Scotland where they got plenty of match practice as well as some team bonding in.

    Europe made no mistake on the final day of the 2022 Mosconi Cup as they took home the trophy once again.

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    Europe made no mistake on the final day of the 2022 Mosconi Cup as they took home the trophy once again.

    Europe made no mistake on the final day of the 2022 Mosconi Cup as they took home the trophy once again.

    That included playing a challenge match against a team of five local nine-ball players mimicking the Mosconi Cup format, in which Europe triumphed 11-4, and the 33-year-old could hardly be happier with how Ralph Eckert’s squad are shaping up ahead of the event.

    “I really feel our team have that good bond,” Shaw said. “We don’t have to really take in a rookie and try to help them out, everybody has been there.

    “We’ve all won big tournaments all year and been in that position of playing in big finals. I feel like we’re really there and ready to play.”

    Watch every ball of the Mosconi Cup live on Sky Sports Arena from 6.30pm on Wednesday, December 6 to Saturday, December 9. You can also stream the 2023 Mosconi Cup and more of the best sport without a contract with NOW.

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  • England’s young netball players are ‘scary’ good, says Eleanor Cardwell ahead of South Africa series

    England’s young netball players are ‘scary’ good, says Eleanor Cardwell ahead of South Africa series

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    England’s Fran Williams, Eleanor Cardwell and Sasha Glasgow look ahead to the three-match series against South Africa in December with added excitement around the squad after the Netball World Cup in the summer

    England’s Fran Williams, Eleanor Cardwell and Sasha Glasgow look ahead to the three-match series against South Africa in December with added excitement around the squad after the Netball World Cup in the summer

    Eleanor Cardwell is convinced England’s ‘scary raw talent’ will be an exciting prospect when they face South Africa on Tuesday. 

    The Vitality Roses welcome South Africa in their first home series since winning a Netball World Cup silver medal with the three-match tournament starting in Manchester before heading to Nottingham for back-to-back weekend games.

    Captain Natalie Metcalf and goal shooter Helen Housby announced in November they will be taking extended breaks from netball.

    “I think these young guns have got something to prove,” said Cardwell.

    “I’ve been impressed with them for years. I’ve been watching the Super League and I’ve played with Berri [Neil] with Manchester Thunder. I’ve been raving about them.

    “They’ve all got such raw talent and to be put into this competitive environment they’re having to develop their game in that situation as well.

    “It’s very exciting for the country and for netball. The more experience they get on the international stage then the more confident they’re going to feel in that space as well, so that’s going to make them grow and it’s quite scary actually.”

    Cardwell was part of the Vitality Roses that finished runners-up at the Netball World Cup in South Africa earlier this year

    Cardwell was part of the Vitality Roses that finished runners-up at the Netball World Cup in South Africa earlier this year

    England were beaten 59-52 by New Zealand in a series decider as the Silver Ferns retained the Taini Jamison Trophy in Hamilton in September.

    However, the squad remains excited about facing South Africa and are heading into the clash with a blended team.

    “We’ve got people who were involved in the World Cup, reserves, girls who have just come off the Test series in New Zealand,” said team-mate Fran Williams.

    “There’s such a range of experience and also match readiness within the squad. We’re raring to go and it’s a new style of play.

    Relive some of the best moments between England and South Africa as the two sides go head to head for a three-match series starting on December 5, live on Sky Sports

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    Relive some of the best moments between England and South Africa as the two sides go head to head for a three-match series starting on December 5, live on Sky Sports

    Relive some of the best moments between England and South Africa as the two sides go head to head for a three-match series starting on December 5, live on Sky Sports

    “South Africa are always a challenge and I think if you look at the history of English and South African battles in netball, it’s very competitive. We’ve even had some draws against them in the past so they’re always up for the challenge and so will we be.”

    Cardwell added: “We’ve built in some experience with some inexperience which is amazing because it’s like we’ve got fight and passion. We’ve got a mixture of everything.

    “So, if you can get that balance right I think we’ll attack South Africa in an aggressive way and put it to them. The camp is full of excitement.”

    The Vitality Roses did not come up against South Africa in the World Cup but Cardwell remains aware of the threat they pose and the squad will be using video analysis to plot out their tactics.

    England team celebrate their silver medals at the final of the Netball World Cup against Australia in Cape Town

    England team celebrate their silver medals at the final of the Netball World Cup against Australia in Cape Town

    “They’re also full of experience and inexperience. They’ve got a lot of talent that they’ve had there for years but also a lot of talent that is new and I’ve not played against them before,” Cardwell said.

    “They have now got a lot more players over in the Super League so that’s great for them and for international netball.

    “It’s going to be a lot of video analysis and looking at what they can do and what their strengths and weaknesses are and how we can combat them. It’s going to be a challenge especially because they can throw anyone on.”

    Cardwell added: “It’s going to be exciting to watch because there’s a lot to show on both sides and it’s not just going to be one-sided. Both teams will be battling it out and see where they are at that moment in time.”

    The 29-year-old featured in the Sky Sports documentary ‘Fit for Purpose’ where she spoke about the importance of the sports bra and the reaction she got to speaking about it openly on social media.

    Cardwell talks about the importance of the sports bra and the reaction to her openly talking about it on social media

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    Cardwell talks about the importance of the sports bra and the reaction to her openly talking about it on social media

    Cardwell talks about the importance of the sports bra and the reaction to her openly talking about it on social media

    Reflecting on the success of World Cup, Cardwell said it was a proud moment when she realised how much outreach and interaction there was.

    “I was loving the amount of people jumping on to netball. It reached a lot more people and showed just how proud everyone was of us, especially after the previous year, I don’t think people were expecting us to get on to the podium,” Cardwell reflected.

    “We got a lot of messages saying the hard work was worth it and a lot of fans were getting on board too. We were disappointed not winning the gold but getting a silver medal around the neck was very rewarding. It was a proud moment.”

    Despite all the success Cardwell has accumulated since making her debut in a Home Nations clash against Northern Ireland in 2016, the mornings are still often filled with nerves.

    “I definitely get nervous, it tends to be in the morning when I wake up. When we’re together in the changing room there’s a little bit of anticipation,” she said.

    “The opposition doesn’t matter, we’ve got each other so the nerves settle and as soon as the whistle goes, you’re doing your job and playing a sport that you love. So, it’s no different to every other day in your life and I think the nerves just go.”

    England Netball’s 14-player squad for South Africa series

    Halimat Adio, Imogen Allison, Eleanor Cardwell, Amy Carter, Funmi Fadoju, Sasha Glasgow, Hannah Joseph, Berri Neil, Jayda Pechova, Razia Quashie, Ellie Rattu, Alicia Scholes, Olivia Tchine, Fran Williams

    England vs South Africa series:

    December 5: Manchester, 7pm

    December 9: Nottingham, 5pm

    December 10: Nottingham, 2pm

    You can watch England take on South Africa in their home series between December 5-10, live on Sky Sports. Stream the netball and more with NOW I Get Sky Sports

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  • Arsenal 2-1 Wolves | Premier League highlights

    Arsenal 2-1 Wolves | Premier League highlights

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    FREE TO WATCH: Highlights of the Premier League clash between Arsenal and Wolves.

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  • Owen Farrell: Saracens boss Mark McCall blasts ‘shameful’ treatment of England captain

    Owen Farrell: Saracens boss Mark McCall blasts ‘shameful’ treatment of England captain

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    Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall hopes Owen Farrell’s decision to take a break from international rugby to prioritise his mental well-being will prove to be a wake-up call for the sport; the England captain announced on Wednesday he will not play in next year’s Six Nations

    Last Updated: 30/11/23 4:29pm

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    Owen Farrell will miss the Six Nations after deciding to take a break from international rugby to prioritise his and his family’s mental well-being

    Owen Farrell will miss the Six Nations after deciding to take a break from international rugby to prioritise his and his family’s mental well-being

    Mark McCall has criticised the treatment of Owen Farrell in what he believes should be a wake-up call for rugby union.

    Farrell will miss the Six Nations after deciding to take a break from international rugby in order to prioritise his and his family’s mental well-being, although he will continue to play for club Saracens.

    The unexpected decision comes after the 32-year-old fly-half led England to a third-place finish in the recent World Cup after losing to champions South Africa by a point in the semi-final.

    Mark McCall called the treatment of Farrell 'shameful'

    Mark McCall called the treatment of Farrell ‘shameful’

    Farrell has long been a lightening-rod figure in the sport, but the condemnation peaked in August when he was sent off for a dangerous tackle against Wales, a decision which was overturned by a disciplinary hearing only to then incur a ban on appeal.

    England’s captain was frequently booed in France, sometimes with his family present in the stadium, and Saracens director of rugby McCall is impressed that he delivered a series of strong performances despite shouldering a heavy burden.

    “It’s remarkable that he played the way he played during the World Cup, if we take into account how he was feeling,” McCall said.

    “He is a person who is right on top of his game at the moment, yet he and his family have been made to feel the way they feel. It is shameful – it’s not right.

    “I’ve worked with Owen for 15 years, every day, and the person that has been portrayed in the media bears no resemblance to the person I know. He’s a family man, they’ve always come first.

    He is a person who is right on top of his game at the moment, yet he and his family have been made to feel the way they feel. It is shameful – it’s not right.

    Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall on Owen Farrell

    “There was a narrative created and started and that’s been there for quite some time. There’s only so much that someone can take. On top of that, he’s a brilliant, caring, supportive team-mate and a loyal friend to many, and a very good, decent human being. That’s the person I know.

    “It was courageous and brave of him to open up. I admire Owen for many reasons anyway, but even more for doing this. I’m not worried about Europe or the club at all. I’m worried about Owen. We want him to be OK and happy. Clearly he hasn’t been.”

    Woodward: Farrell criticism ‘unjust and uncalled for’

    Former England international Heather Fisher said it should get to a point where athletes taking a break from their sport, to look after their mental health, isn't newsworthy

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    Former England international Heather Fisher said it should get to a point where athletes taking a break from their sport, to look after their mental health, isn’t newsworthy

    Former England international Heather Fisher said it should get to a point where athletes taking a break from their sport, to look after their mental health, isn’t newsworthy

    Sir Clive Woodward hopes Farrell’s decision to step away from England duty to focus on his and his family’s mental well-being inspires more players within rugby union to take sabbaticals.

    Woodward – who coached England to World Cup glory in 2003 – also said the criticism Farrell has received is “unjust” while former England captain Lawrence Dallaglio called it “sickening”.

    Writing for Mail Online, Woodward said of Farrell: “The first and most important thing is to acknowledge the brave and correct decision Farrell has made to step away from England duty to protect his and his family’s mental health and that we wish them all the best.

    “Farrell’s move comes as no great surprise considering the extraordinary weight his shoulders have been forced to bear and the unjust criticism he has had to face. Only he will know how much influence this had over his decision.

    “Rugby, sport and society have all come a long way in understanding mental health, but there is still so much more that can be done. Athletes and coaches ask a great deal of themselves.

    Luther Burrell supports Farrell's decision to miss the Six Nations to prioritise his own mental well-being as well as that of his family

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    Luther Burrell supports Farrell’s decision to miss the Six Nations to prioritise his own mental well-being as well as that of his family

    Luther Burrell supports Farrell’s decision to miss the Six Nations to prioritise his own mental well-being as well as that of his family

    “They put themselves into situations that are, while an utter privilege and filled with joy at times, can also leave you wondering how you will get out of bed some days. This is not a burden they carry alone. Their families face the same trials and pressures.

    “I hope Farrell sets the tone and inspires new thinking in this area. Why is taking a sabbatical not more common?

    “No doubt they [the Rugby Football Union] will blame others – especially the media – and create another nameless committee to investigate and put forward their thoughts with zero accountability. Farrell will probably be left to work it out for himself. That is so wrong.

    “The RFU and other international sides should look at Farrell’s situation with real concern but as an opportunity to better support players. The world’s best businesses build sabbaticals into their HR processes as paid leave. Why not rugby?”

    Carlisle: I applaud Farrell for stepping away to focus on mental health

    Former Burnley and Leeds defender Clarke Carlisle has praised England rugby union captain Owen Farrell, for taking time away to prioritise his mental health.

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    Former Burnley and Leeds defender Clarke Carlisle has praised England rugby union captain Owen Farrell, for taking time away to prioritise his mental health.

    Former Burnley and Leeds defender Clarke Carlisle has praised England rugby union captain Owen Farrell, for taking time away to prioritise his mental health.

    Former Burnley and Leeds defender Clarke Carlisle has praised Farrell for taking time away to prioritise his mental health.

    “There are so many thoughts and considerations that go around that decision but I’m absolutely delighted that Owen, his family and all the people around him have decided to put the man and his wellbeing first over any work duties,” Carlisle said to Sky Sports.

    “I massively applaud him and I really would advocate other people who are experiencing tough mental health to take action early but there is an important point to be made, and an important distinction.

    “There’s often a fear, especially with guys who are my generation or older, that the perception that people are going to judge you for taking care of your wellbeing.

    “When we see a case like Farrell and think if I take a step back, the world has to know, it doesn’t have to be like that. You don’t have to be like myself or Farrell, you don’t have to tell the world that you’re addressing your wellbeing status but it is imperative that you tell someone and the right someone and the right time.”

    Carlisle added: “We’ve gotten to a point now in our society where we understand that we all live on this spectrum of mental health and being able to have that foresight to intervene when you are getting to a 3/10 instead of making yourself get to 1/10 and then have to provide for disaster recovery, it doesn’t happen anymore.

    “Those perceptions of your professional identity, we’re now able to separate them from actually supporting the human being. This is a fantastic example of that.”

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  • The Verdict: Arsenal ‘as near to perfect as they come’

    The Verdict: Arsenal ‘as near to perfect as they come’

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    Sky Sports News reporter Gary Cotterill gives his thoughts on Arsenal’s comprehensive 6-0 victory over Lens in the Champions League.

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  • ‘That’s NOT football!’ – Merse launches into epic rant about sin bins!

    ‘That’s NOT football!’ – Merse launches into epic rant about sin bins!

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    Paul Merson was left aghast following suggestions that football might introduce a sin-bin system in the professional game.

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  • Zay Flowers scores TD, beats Beckham Jr with penalty kick, hits Siuuu celebration!

    Zay Flowers scores TD, beats Beckham Jr with penalty kick, hits Siuuu celebration!

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    Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers paired up with Odell Beckham Jr to score a ‘penalty kick’ and hit Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‘Siuuu’ celebration after finding the end zone against the Los Angeles Chargers.

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  • Aberdeen 1-1 Rangers | Scottish Premiership Highlights

    Aberdeen 1-1 Rangers | Scottish Premiership Highlights

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    Highlights from the Scottish Premiership match between Aberdeen and Rangers.

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  • St Mirren 1-0 Livingston | Scottish Premiership highlights

    St Mirren 1-0 Livingston | Scottish Premiership highlights

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    Highlights of the Scottish Premiership match between St Mirren and Livingston.

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