The sporting week ahead (09/09/12)

Today

So that's it, then. Put away your flags and take down the bunting. The great summer of sport ends today with the Paralympic closing ceremony. For six weeks we were gripped by a drowsy numbness as Games medals came clunking along, one after another. And now it has finished, at least until 2076, when history suggests London might get another crack at it. So will 2012 now replace 1966 (apologies if you aren't English) as the default golden year of sporting achievement? Probably. So move over Sir Geoff, you have been officially replaced. For Hurst read Hoy: Sir Chris didn't just score three, he got five – although admittedly not in 120 minutes.

Tomorrow

Er, forget that last entry. Our Games medallists will parade through London so you can get those flags and that bunting out again.

Tuesday

And so to football. The FA are clearly worried about the size of the crowd at Wembley for today's World Cup qualifier against Ukraine. Tickets are being offered at knockdown prices and Olympians will be paraded at half-time in an effort to persuade the punters in. But will they bite?

Wednesday

Those who are keener to cling on to the last vestiges of summer can make it to Edgbaston for the third Twenty20 international between England and South Africa.

Thursday

In golf, the British Women's Open starts in Hoylake.

Friday

Charlton versus Crystal Palace should quicken a few pulses in south London, but Brighton against Sheffield Wednesday has wider appeal.

Saturday

Expect some endless huffing and puffing this week over a rather pointless question: will Anton Ferdinand shake John Terry's hand before Queens Park Rangers host Chelsea? Let us sort that one out now: he won't. And who cares anyway? In cricket, the county champions, Warwickshire, can confirm their status as the summer's form side by beating Hampshire in the final of the Clydesdale Bank 40.