Commonwealth Games 2014 Diary: Rap over the knuckles for Malaysian cyclist

Malaysian cyclist, Azizulhasni Awang, has received a rap for a message construed as pro-Palestinian (Getty Images)

A Malaysian cyclist, Azizulhasni Awang, has received a rap for a message construed as pro-Palestinian – written on his knuckles.

Awang competed in the men’s sprint on Thursday with the words “Save Gaza” written across his gloves. Political statements are prohibited by the Commonwealth Games Federation, and he has been told he will be kicked out if he repeats the stunt.

CGF chief executive Mike Hooper called Awang’s actions “inappropriate” and he received “a strong reprimand from his team management”.

Nan flying the flag for England and Scotland

Euan Burton’s nan has deftly avoided any split loyalties over her grandson and his wife, Gemma Gibbons. They both start their judo campaigns today, Burton for Scotland in the -100kg class and Gibbons for England in the 73kg division. Gibbons said: “His nan has got both a Scotland and an England flag, so she will be waving both at home.”

Day in numbers

24.31

Fran Halsall’s time, in seconds, in the women’s 50m freestyle – a Games record

623.6

Points by England’s Daniel Rivers in the 10m air rifle – a Commonwealth best