The Sport Matrix: Friday 23 August 2013

Lehmann fined for radio rant as Smith celebrates century

Darren Lehmann, the Australia coach, has been fined 20 per cent of his match fee by the International Cricket Council following his outburst at England bowler Stuart Broad for failing to walk in the first Test. Lehmann, right, admitted a charge of publicly criticising and making inappropriate comments about Broad, including accusing him of cheating and urging the Australian public to harass him at every turn when England arrive Down Under this winter. On the field at The Kia Oval yesterday, Steve Smith struck an unbeaten 138 – his first Test century – as Australia continued their dominance in the final Test.

Australia declared on 492-9 and England were 32-0 at the close of a rain-affected second day. England bowling coach, David Saker tried to defend England’s bowling line-up, which included debutants Chris Woakes and Simon Kerrigan, unused yesterday.

“Two days into a five day game its harsh to say we haven’t got it right,” said Saker. “If Simon Kerrigan bowls us to victory on day five it will be a feel-good story.” MORE

‘Time for business’ warns Murray

Andy Murray cannot wait to begin the defence of his US Open title next week. The 26-year-old Britain will play Michael Llodra in the first round and the Scot said: “I’ve enjoyed my tennis the last few weeks, but now it’s time for business. This is a huge tournament for me.” MORE

Injured Sharapova ends on sour note

Maria Sharapova has been forced to pull out of next week’s US Open because of a shoulder injury. The world No 3 had been planning a temporary change of name to publicise her Sugarpova confectionery business during the tournament. MORE

Spurs outclass Dinamo Tbilisi

Tottenham beat Dinamo Tbilisi 5-0 in the first leg of their Europa League qualifying play-off tie. Roberto Soldado scored twice and Andros Townsend, Paulinho and Danny Rose were also on target. Spurs were last night still confident of signing forward Willian. MORE

Swansea enjoy easy victory

Swansea defeated Petrolul Ploiesti 5-1 in the first leg of their Europa League qualifying play-off tie. Wayne Routledge impressed with two goals, while Michu and Alejandro Pozuelo also scored and Petrolul Ploiesti’s Peterson Pecanha put the ball into his own net. MORE

Raikkonen ducks Red Bull questions

Kimi Raikkonen, the 2007 world champion, yesterday ducked the routine press conference ahead of this weekend’s Belgium Grand Prix. It meant the Lotus driver evaded questions about his future after speculation of a possible move to Red Bull. MORE

Southgate named England U-21 coach

Gareth Southgate has been appointed by the FA to succeed Stuart Pearce as England Under-21s coach.He saw off competition from Steve McClaren and Michael Appleton to land the role and has been given a three-year contract. MORE

Anelka allowed to miss Everton game

West Bromwich striker Nicolas Anelka has been given permission to miss tomorrow’s game at Everton on “compassionate grounds”. The withdrawal was due to the death of his long-time agent Eric Manasse. MORE

Evans laughs off Jose ‘mind games’

Manchester United’s Jonny Evans has dismissed Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho’s claim that Sir Alex Ferguson’s final Premier League winning team lacked style. “It’s just mind games,” said Evans ahead of the clubs’ game on Monday. MORE

Robshaw signs new Quins contract

Chris Robshaw has signed a contract extension at Harlequins which will keep him at the club until the end of the 2015-16 season. He will also continue as Quins captain for the forthcoming season. MORE

Sam Wallace

Gareth Southgate’s appointment as England’s new U-21 manager at least demonstrates a faith in English coaches, considering only five Premier League clubs have English managers. MORE