The Sport Matrix: Saturday 8 November 2014

England can’t win World Cup, insists Sachin

India legend Sachin Tendulkar (right) has written off England’s chances of winning next year’s World Cup.

Three heavy defeats saw England slip to a 3-2 defeat to India in the one-day series in the summer and Alastair Cook’s side have struggled in the shorter format of the game in recent years.

Tendulkar, who retired from cricket in November 2013, said: “I think Australia, South Africa, New Zealand are a dark horse, and India - these four should be my semi-finalists.

“Do England have a chance? Not really. I don’t think so.”

Halfpenny gets Wilkinson’s advice

Wales’ Leigh Halfpenny has been getting help from World Cup winner Jonny Wilkinson, as he prepares for today’s challenge of laying down a marker to Australia, one of the teams in their World Cup pool. “There are skill sessions where I work on my passing with him,” said the 25-year-old, who feels focus is key in the hope of winning the contest. “It’s about concentration for the full 80,” he added.”

Rain plays role as Rosberg seeks win

Nico Rosberg beat Mercedes rival Lewis Hamilton in the practice sessions ahead of tomorrow’s Brazilian GP. Hamilton has a 24-point lead over Rosberg, and rain could be a vital factor in this race, with thunderstorms forecast for today’s qualifying, and showers all through race day.

Mourinho bristles at Suarez’s claim

Jose Mourinho responded to claims by Luis Suarez, who in his autobiography cast doubt over whether even the Chelsea players believed in their manager. By way of response, Mourinho, whose Chelsea side play Liverpool today, delivered a monologue about an offer he had received to compile a book of pictures about his career – “a memory book”. “But not,” he said, “a book to talk s**t and to criticise people.”

Murray: old guard command respect

Andy Murray says it is no surprise that established players like Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal made it to the Tour Finals despite the emergence of up-and-coming talent. “Regardless of how much the younger guys improve, you’re talking about some of the best players who have ever played the game,” he said. “And even if the younger guys improve, it’s not that easy just to knock them off the top.”