Lankans finally defeat Aussies;
scores consolation win

Australia suffered a jolt ahead of their cricket tri-series finals against India when they lost an inconsequential cricket tri-series game against Sri Lanka by a narrow margin of 13 runs in Melbourne on Friday.

Chasing Sri Lanka's competitive total of 221, the world champions got off to a flying start with Adam Gilchrist (83 off 50 balls) launching a blistering assault but completely lost the plot after his dismisal to be bundled out for 208 in 48.1 overs.

It was dramatic collapse by the Australians who were cruising comfortably at 113 for one at one stage before losing their remaining nine wickets for just 95 runs in a thrilling floodlit encounter at the MCG, allowing the islanders to salvage some pride.

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Gilchrist springs to
Hayden's defence

Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist defended his team mate Matthew Hayden on Thursday against allegations about his unpopularity among fellow international cricketers.

Hayden was reprimanded on Wednesday for describing India's off-spinner Harbhajan Singh as an "obnoxious weed", the spinner fighting back by suggesting that Hayden is not well liked by many opponents.

"I've not ever cared to think what other teams think of Matthew Hayden," Gilchrist told reporters.

"He's one of the most well-respected people in our team, so that's all that interests me."

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Lahore Badshah leaves for ICL

A big contingent of Pakistani players leaves for New Delhi on Friday to take part in the second edition of the Indian Cricket League. They will play in the tournament as 'Lahore Badshahs'.

One of the contracted players disclosed that the 16 Pakistani players signed up by the ICL will appear in the tournament as Lahore Badshahs.

The tournament organisers have designed a special Salwar Kameez and waistcoat as the team's official outfit.

Moin Khan, the ICL representative in Pakistan, said there are plans to have designated city teams from Colombo and Dhaka in the tournament as well.

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Gillespie announces retirement

Former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie announced his retirement from first-class cricket in Australia on Friday. Local media reported that Gillespie, 32, had signed a three-year contract with the rebel Indian Cricket League (ICL).

"I have invited you here to finally put an end to the speculation and officially announce my retirement from first-class cricket in Australia," Gillespie said in Adelaide.

"Cricket has been very good to me. I have travelled the world, I have met some fantastic people, and I have spent my time doing the thing I love the most -- playing cricket. But it has always been important to me to end my career on my own terms, while I am still contributing. I do not want to get tapped on the shoulder and shown the door."

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