The Sports Matrix: Tuesday 13 November 2012

Kingsholm ready for Cup rehearsal

Gloucester host Fiji tonight, with stadium owners hoping to convince World Cup organisers to include Kingsholm on the list of venues for 2015. "It would mean a great deal if we play some part," managing director Chris Ferguson said. MORE

Beating Australia vital for England

England's match with Australia on Saturday has turned into a must-win game after Stuart Lancaster's side slipped out of the world top four. A defeat could leave England facing a tough draw for the next World Cup on home soil. MORE

Cowdrey: Compton can shine in India

Former England captain Chris Cowdrey has backed Nick Compton to impress if he makes his Test debut this week. "He's massively improved," Cowdrey said. "He has got his technique ironed out and has that confidence Somerset give." MORE

Murray already thinking of 2013

Andy Murray insists he will use the off-season tentatively as he looks forward to next year. "We don't have breaks like other sports do for two or three months," he said. "I will have a week off and then we need to start training again." MORE

Opinion: James Lawton

When David Beckham was Steven Gerrard's current age, he walked away from Real Madrid for the rich pickings of minor league football in America. It is hard to imagine Gerrard taking such an option. MORE

Armstrong severs cancer charity ties

The disgraced former Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong has quit cancer charity Livestrong. The Texan, 41, resigned as chairman last month and has now left the board of directors. MORE

Balotelli will not be leaving, says agent

Mario Balotelli's agent has insisted that the Manchester City striker has no plans to leave the club for Italy, despite a peripheral role this season. "He'll work until the end of his contract," Mino Raiola said. "He doesn't want to leave. There's no Italy and no plans to go there." MORE

Zaha turns down Ivory Coast offer

Wilfried Zaha is willing to commit his international future to England, turning down an invitation from the Ivory Coast to play in the African Cup of Nations. The Crystal Palace winger is in line to make his England debut in tomorrow's friendly against Sweden. MORE

Osman wants more than one call-up

Everton midfielder Leon Osman has set his sights on keeping his place in the England squad. "Being the character that I am, I would want to be recognised," he said after his first call-up, for tomorrow's match in Sweden. "And I want a cap. And if I get one, I'll want two." MORE

Sturridge: Hard to find form on bench

Daniel Sturridge has said that he finds it hard to find consistent form when continually used as a substitute by Chelsea. "I do not believe it is easy to not play and then switch it on like a light," the forward, who has made 11 substitute appearances this season, said. "You cannot do that." MORE