The sporting week ahead (06/02/11)

Today

At last, it's over! England's cricket tour of Australia finally ends with the seventh (pointless) one-dayer in Perth. Due to picking up their 47th injury, the batting will be opened by Flower and Gower with Botham to add power. But just a gentle reminder to any gloating Aussies; England went to win the Ashes, and did so. They are also reigning Twenty20 champions, and my money's on Strauss's brave boys reaching the 50-over World Cup final in India. Elsewhere, expect a battle at the Bridge as Fernando Torres makes his Chelsea debut against Liverpool. Expect that nice Mr Carragher to give him a welcoming kick up the backside. And a Super (Bowl) Sunday ends with Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers squaring off in Texas tonight.

Tomorrow

We're all fans of rugby league here at the IoS and today it's the official launch of Super League at Old Trafford to preview this weekend's Millennium Magic in Cardiff, where St Helens versus Wigan is the pick of the crop.

Tuesday

It's the Department for Culture, Media and Sport committee's inquiry into football governance in London this morning, which sadly doesn't lend itself to any more lame gags.

Wednesday

There are pointless friendlies and then there's Denmark versus England in Copenhagen. There's another one in Dublin between Northern Ireland and Scotland, but they've called that the Nations Cup so it must be important.

Thursday

Dull old day unless you happen to be a diehard fan of Leinster or Aironi, who meet in the Magners League.

Friday

All eyes turn to League Two as Burton play one of seven games in hand at home to leaders Chesterfield.

Saturday

The Manchester derby at Old Trafford. Put money on City ending United's unbeaten run with Carlos Tevez leaving Sir Alex more red-faced than usual. It's the Six Nations too as Scotland host Wales and Italy travel to Twickenham.