He wasn’t meant to lose. Ricky Hatton gave another of his trademark valiant and dogged performances, but he wasn’t meant to lose.
He came out all guns blazing, winning four of the first five rounds. But whilst he was catching Vyacheslav Senchenko with many decent shots, he was also missing many more and getting caught by return punches.
As the rounds went by, the Hitman was visibly starting to tire and Senchenko’s ring craft began to take over.
But the devastating body punch that ended the bout was one that would have chopped down most fighters.
Perhaps if he had taken on Senchenko three years ago, five months after his fight against Pacquiao, he would most likely have won.
It was his ring rust, mixed with questionable fight fitness that cost him the bout, two elements he would not have been lacking if it wasn’t for his retirement.
It was crushing to hear him – in his post-match press conference – say: “I am not a failure.”
This sadly showcased the fragile mind state that led so many to adore him, but also left him vulnerable.
Those who have followed Hatton’s career know that he not a failure, he is a champion, a champion that had one of the most Cinderella-like careers his sport has ever seen.
He is also a hero to millions, proof of which lies in the fact that he took 20,000 fans across to Las Vegas for his fights with Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, taking over the city. It is also more than Amir Khan, Nasim Hamed and Lennox Lewis ever managed.
Another theory is that Hatton could have taken a tune-up fight before taking on a fighter of Senchenko – who was a world champion until his last bout against Paulie Malignaggi – but this is Ricky Hatton, a tune-up fight would not be good enough for him and he would have felt he was doing his beloved fans a disservice if he took the easy way.
He has never taken things the easy way, in or out of the ring, having to lose five stone to make the weight, just as he always used to. Unfortunately on this occasion, it was one bridge too far and Hatton has re-retired saying: “I go the answers I was looking for. I needed to see if I still had it in me, and I don’t.”
He said afterwards that he was “heartbroken”. We knew, our hearts had broken too.
Adam Appleton
Monday 26 November 2012
Sunday 3 June 2012
Khan must pass Garcia test before 147 schemes
Amir Khan is set to meet WBC light-welterweight Champion Danny Garcia at the Mandalay Bay on the 14th July.
This came after Khan’s original opponent Lamont Peterson failed a drugs test seeing their rematch cancelled.
But again, Khan has been looking past this next fight and weighing up his plans to move up to the welterweight division.
This proved a grave error before the first Peterson fight, which saw the Washington man defeat Khan in the upset of the year to take Khan’s belts to America.
It is imperative that Khan stays focussed on the task at hand this time so that he doesn’t get caught out in another fight he is favourite going in to.
Danny Garcia is unbeaten and fresh from winning the WBC strap of boxing legend Erik Morales via unanimous decision in March.
He will be eager to show his pedigree as this is his first defence and he will be looking to truly announce himself on the world scene.
But whilst he has all these attributes, Khan is still the more skilled, quicker technician.
Garcia could not vanquish an aged Morales with a knockout, showing that he will probably not knock out a fresher-legged Khan either.
Khan however has knockout victories over the likes of Zab Judah, Paulie Malignaggi and Marco Antonio Barrera.
Although it must be taken into consideration that Khan’s spirits will be down, having trained as hard as he did for his Peterson rematch only to have it cancelled.
Be that as it may, Khan should still have the tools to see off Garcia, likely by decision.
Should he do so, what is next for the boy from Bolton?
He constantly says that he will move up to 147lbs, but it isn’t as easy as that.
Firstly, he must ingratiate himself to the division with an impressive victory over a good, but not necessary great opponent.
Fortunately for Amir, welterweight is about the most talent-diluted division going right now.
Victor Ortiz could be an option if can wants to go for a live, active fighter and southpaw at that.
Sugar Shane Mosley could provide a nice stepping stone as Saul Alvarez showed last month.
It is wise that Khan stays away from Mayweather, Pacquiao, Cotto and possibly Marquez this time around as he will need to get used to the weight and make adjustments.
That said, Amir does not balloon up in between fights, he keeps himself trim and walks around about half a stone heavier than his fight weight which will stand in his favour.
He should not lose much speed in his fists as it is his legs that will need bulking up to take the slightly heavier shots as well as his shoulders and neck.
To me, his best options lie with three fighters; former WBC champion Devon Alexander, current NABA and NABO holder Mike Jones, and Timothy Bradley.
Of this opponents, a Bradley fight is the most attractive as there is history from the light-welterweight so as to who is the better combatant.
But Bradley must get past Manny Pacquiao with his fighting dignity intact to keep this fight viable.
Alexander is coming off a resounding victory over Marcos Maidana, who took Amir Khan all the way 18 months ago.
Mike Jones, much like Danny Garcia is fairly untested, but unbeaten and a fight with Khan would be a great acid test.
Many critics are asking whether he will be able to handle himself at the heavier weight.
There should be no problem, his only knockout loss is far, far behind him and he learned from it that he needed better conditioning.
If he can increase his leg mass slightly that should stand him in good stead.
As for how far he can go, Khan should be looking to have one fight and then setting his sights firmly on the top of the division to take on Mayweather, Pacquiao, Cotto or Marquez.
Either of these opponents would be great for Khan as victories over Cotto and Marquez would heavily increase his stock, whilst proving he looks to face the best.
Wins over Pacquiao and/or Mayweather would be on another level though and would see Khan right up there with Britain’s best ever boxers, having competed in two divisions saturated with the best talents in world boxing.
One thing is for sure, Amir “King” Khan is looking to become just that, a king, a legend of boxing.
And in order to achieve that he must move up to welterweight, force his way through the politics of match-making to ensure himself the biggest fights before his planned “retirement” when he turns 28.
This came after Khan’s original opponent Lamont Peterson failed a drugs test seeing their rematch cancelled.
But again, Khan has been looking past this next fight and weighing up his plans to move up to the welterweight division.
This proved a grave error before the first Peterson fight, which saw the Washington man defeat Khan in the upset of the year to take Khan’s belts to America.
It is imperative that Khan stays focussed on the task at hand this time so that he doesn’t get caught out in another fight he is favourite going in to.
Danny Garcia is unbeaten and fresh from winning the WBC strap of boxing legend Erik Morales via unanimous decision in March.
He will be eager to show his pedigree as this is his first defence and he will be looking to truly announce himself on the world scene.
But whilst he has all these attributes, Khan is still the more skilled, quicker technician.
Garcia could not vanquish an aged Morales with a knockout, showing that he will probably not knock out a fresher-legged Khan either.
Khan however has knockout victories over the likes of Zab Judah, Paulie Malignaggi and Marco Antonio Barrera.
Although it must be taken into consideration that Khan’s spirits will be down, having trained as hard as he did for his Peterson rematch only to have it cancelled.
Be that as it may, Khan should still have the tools to see off Garcia, likely by decision.
Should he do so, what is next for the boy from Bolton?
He constantly says that he will move up to 147lbs, but it isn’t as easy as that.
Firstly, he must ingratiate himself to the division with an impressive victory over a good, but not necessary great opponent.
Fortunately for Amir, welterweight is about the most talent-diluted division going right now.
Victor Ortiz could be an option if can wants to go for a live, active fighter and southpaw at that.
Sugar Shane Mosley could provide a nice stepping stone as Saul Alvarez showed last month.
It is wise that Khan stays away from Mayweather, Pacquiao, Cotto and possibly Marquez this time around as he will need to get used to the weight and make adjustments.
That said, Amir does not balloon up in between fights, he keeps himself trim and walks around about half a stone heavier than his fight weight which will stand in his favour.
He should not lose much speed in his fists as it is his legs that will need bulking up to take the slightly heavier shots as well as his shoulders and neck.
To me, his best options lie with three fighters; former WBC champion Devon Alexander, current NABA and NABO holder Mike Jones, and Timothy Bradley.
Of this opponents, a Bradley fight is the most attractive as there is history from the light-welterweight so as to who is the better combatant.
But Bradley must get past Manny Pacquiao with his fighting dignity intact to keep this fight viable.
Alexander is coming off a resounding victory over Marcos Maidana, who took Amir Khan all the way 18 months ago.
Mike Jones, much like Danny Garcia is fairly untested, but unbeaten and a fight with Khan would be a great acid test.
Many critics are asking whether he will be able to handle himself at the heavier weight.
There should be no problem, his only knockout loss is far, far behind him and he learned from it that he needed better conditioning.
If he can increase his leg mass slightly that should stand him in good stead.
As for how far he can go, Khan should be looking to have one fight and then setting his sights firmly on the top of the division to take on Mayweather, Pacquiao, Cotto or Marquez.
Either of these opponents would be great for Khan as victories over Cotto and Marquez would heavily increase his stock, whilst proving he looks to face the best.
Wins over Pacquiao and/or Mayweather would be on another level though and would see Khan right up there with Britain’s best ever boxers, having competed in two divisions saturated with the best talents in world boxing.
One thing is for sure, Amir “King” Khan is looking to become just that, a king, a legend of boxing.
And in order to achieve that he must move up to welterweight, force his way through the politics of match-making to ensure himself the biggest fights before his planned “retirement” when he turns 28.
Early bath likely for not so great Danes
By Adam Appleton
In 1992 they came off the beach ten days before the tournament having failed to qualify to replace an errant Yugoslavia team.
Twenty years later, they are still the most unlikely, unfancied and unbelievable European champions ever.
They saw off the likes of England, France, Holland and Germany along the way to glory to win 2-0 in the final with goals from Vilfort and Jensen in front of a packed Ullevi stadium, Gothenburg.
What made it all the more surprising was that they did it without star players Michael Laudrup and Jan Molby.
Oh how they could do with such talents in their 2012 squad.
They have been given a hellish draw, the tournament’s group of death versus Holland, Germany and Portugal.
Whilst it is unlikely that they will win any of these games, let alone get out of the group, it is still interesting to look into their squad.
Defence must be the first priority for them, which is why Daniel Agger looks set to be their most important player.
The Liverpool defender had a superb season and has truly become a senior player for both of his red teams.
He will have to marshal the defence with Simon Kjaer, who is also a high quality player.
Meanwhile, their up-and-coming star is undoubtedly Christian Eriksen.
The Ajax man will be the creative force in their midfield, playing just behind the strikers.
He will be hoping that main forward Nicklas Bendtner can play as well as he talks, because you feel as though there will not be many goal-scoring opportunities, but one worries he is more image than substance.
Utilising their experienced players will also be vital, Christian Poulsen will be anchoring the midfield, the perfect foil for Christian Eriksen, while 115-cap Dennis Rommedahl will be roaming the wings just as he always has done.
He may been heavily experienced, but Rommedahl has not lost much of his pace over the years and can still give any wing-back trouble.
They could not ask for a more knowledgeable, learned manager in Morten Olsen.
And they will need every inch of that knowledge, as collectively they are very inexperienced, with only 618 caps to their names, 206 of which belong to Poulsen and Rommedahl.
But this will not faze Olsen, who has been in charge of the national side for 12 years now, having made 102 appearances for them in his playing days; a true patriot.
Through the nineties he worked for Brondby, Koln and Ajax before accepting the national job in 2000.
He will face a tough task to get any points from this tournament.
In 1992 they came off the beach ten days before the tournament having failed to qualify to replace an errant Yugoslavia team.
Twenty years later, they are still the most unlikely, unfancied and unbelievable European champions ever.
They saw off the likes of England, France, Holland and Germany along the way to glory to win 2-0 in the final with goals from Vilfort and Jensen in front of a packed Ullevi stadium, Gothenburg.
What made it all the more surprising was that they did it without star players Michael Laudrup and Jan Molby.
Oh how they could do with such talents in their 2012 squad.
They have been given a hellish draw, the tournament’s group of death versus Holland, Germany and Portugal.
Whilst it is unlikely that they will win any of these games, let alone get out of the group, it is still interesting to look into their squad.
Defence must be the first priority for them, which is why Daniel Agger looks set to be their most important player.
The Liverpool defender had a superb season and has truly become a senior player for both of his red teams.
He will have to marshal the defence with Simon Kjaer, who is also a high quality player.
Meanwhile, their up-and-coming star is undoubtedly Christian Eriksen.
The Ajax man will be the creative force in their midfield, playing just behind the strikers.
He will be hoping that main forward Nicklas Bendtner can play as well as he talks, because you feel as though there will not be many goal-scoring opportunities, but one worries he is more image than substance.
Utilising their experienced players will also be vital, Christian Poulsen will be anchoring the midfield, the perfect foil for Christian Eriksen, while 115-cap Dennis Rommedahl will be roaming the wings just as he always has done.
He may been heavily experienced, but Rommedahl has not lost much of his pace over the years and can still give any wing-back trouble.
They could not ask for a more knowledgeable, learned manager in Morten Olsen.
And they will need every inch of that knowledge, as collectively they are very inexperienced, with only 618 caps to their names, 206 of which belong to Poulsen and Rommedahl.
But this will not faze Olsen, who has been in charge of the national side for 12 years now, having made 102 appearances for them in his playing days; a true patriot.
Through the nineties he worked for Brondby, Koln and Ajax before accepting the national job in 2000.
He will face a tough task to get any points from this tournament.
Sunday 6 May 2012
Not carefree but Chelsea take the Wembley spoils
By Adam Appleton
A Didier Drogba winner proved the difference between Chelsea and Liverpool as the South London club extended their superb recent FA Cup record with a 2-1 victory over the Reds.
The Blues claimed their fourth FA Cup since 2007 and their seventh in all while their Ivorian hit man became the first ever player to score in four FA Cup finals.
History, character, romance, these are but a few choice adjectives that surround the phenomenon that is the FA Cup, therefore it was fitting that the final’s participants graced Wembley’s turf in the colours of red and blue to allow a true throwback experience to final’s of the past.
Chelsea’s goal came after 11 minutes, with Mata sliding Ramires in down the right channel. The Brazilian then expertly brushed Enrique aside before wrong-footing Pepe Reina at his near-post.
In spite of this early goal, the first half proceeded to be a fairly tame affair, with the teams simply not seeing enough chances to create an entertaining atmosphere.
The second half started more briskly with Liverpool looking to press their way back into the game, leaving themselves more open at the back.
These gaps were then exposed when Didier Drogba broke free of Skrtel and fired across goal into the far corner, giving Reina no chance to put his side two ahead.
If there is a positive that Liverpool can take from this game, it is that Andy Carroll seems to have not only started scoring, but also began imposing his considerable physicality once more.
He showed great footwork to shake off John Terry and a forceful finish after Stewart Downing dispossessed Bosingwa, putting his team right back in the game only minutes after he was brought on.
The ex-Newcastle forward also scored the winner in the semi final against Everton as well as at Ewood Park a few days prior.
The higher tempo was there for all to see as Liverpool hounded an equaliser and pressed Chelsea’s midfielders with added aggression and intensity.
It reached it climax when – with ten minutes remaining – Luis Suarez crossed to Andy Carroll who, at point blanc range, arrowed a header towards goal only for Peter Cech to pull off what must be one of the greatest saves in FA Cup history.
Liverpool were appealing for a goal, sure that the ball had crossed the white line but the linesman was having none of it as replays showed the ball to only be half over, preventing its legitimacy.
As it was, the soulful Reds could not find their goal leaving Chelsea to celebrate another FA Cup win, lengthening their reign of dominance in the competition.
Having only been in charge for four months, Roberto Di Matteo already has his first trophy as Chelsea manager, although Andre Villas Boas is likely to feel aggrieved that he was not allowed to take the credit for what is arguably his team.
Saturday 28 April 2012
Chastening Chelsea bemuse broken Barca
Adam Appleton
“Quitters never win, and winners never quit”. That, or a variant on Vince Lombardi’s famous quote must have been re-articulated in Roberto Di Matteo’s half-time team-talk last night.
Sky commentator, Gary Neville’s ejaculatory “oooooh” at the sight of Fernando Torres’ eventual tie-clincher summed up perfectly the disbelief and hysteria that surrounded the downing of this Catalan juggernaut.
The Blues produced an astonishing rearguard performance to keep out a team hailed as one of the greatest in football’s long history.
A performance that interim boss, Di Matteo, would herald as: “an incredible achievement by this group of players.”
The first half saw Sergio Busquets put the Catalan giants 1-0 ahead after 35 minutes as Chelsea failed to locate the Spaniard from a low cross.
Minutes later it went from bad to worse for the Londoner’s as captain, John Terry, was inexplicably dismissed for sticking a knee in Alexis Sanchez’s back.
Now it is very difficult to estimate just how steep a task playing Barcelona with ten men must be, but it is likely akin to David taking on Goliath without his slingshot.
With this in mind, going 2-0 behind was not high on Chelsea’s wish-list, but that’s precisely what happened as Messi slid in Andres Iniesta to double the advantage and put his team ahead in the tie.
At this stage, many teams would have battened down the hatches and gone for damage limitations, but not Chelsea, whose typical English grit shone through like a beacon all night long.
This determination was rewarded when, seconds before the half time whistle, Frank Lampard played Ramires through down the inside-right channel.
What happened next was pure artistry, with Ramires’ first touch lofting the ball millimetres over Victor Valdes’ outstretched paw, and then dipping to caress the back of the net.
Chelsea were back in it, with their goal turning the game into a chess match, with Barcelona hammering at Chelsea’s pawns, trying their damnedest to find the checkmate.
When Fabregas was brought down by Drogba and a penalty given, Chelsea fans must have thought the writing was on the wall.
Lionel Messi, scorer of 63 goals this season, and serial-terroriser of defences stepped up to take the kick, and cannoned the ball off the crossbar.
As the minutes ticked by, Barcelona were growing increasingly desperate, anxious to work an opening, but master-class displays from all in a white shirt kept them at bay.
With one minute of injury time already played, Fernando Torres found himself in and through on the half way line after a well-guided hook from Ashley Cole, arguably Chelsea’s man of the match.
With Valdes advancing, Torres scooped the ball round him and slotted the ball into the open net to secure not only Chelsea’s spot in the final, but perhaps also a reprieve for himself, repaying much if not all of that £50million transfer fee.
Messi was reduced to crouching, staring blankly at the Nou Camp turf for answers, but none came. At the final whistle, Chelsea fans, players and staff went into realms of happiness hitherto unseen, jumping around yelling like a cat when its tail is trodden on.
In a dignified acceptance of defeat, Barca players stood up, looked Chelsea in the eyes and shook their hands, with many of the home supporters respectfully applauding the Blues’ effort.
But for all their flair, flamboyance and tiki-taka poetry, Barcelona’s prowess could not match Chelsea’s grit, determination and sheer will to see that 19th May date in Munich. Unfortunately, though all will see, not all will play.
Terry’s red card, along with the yellow’s of Meireles, Ramires and Ivanovic will see them play no part in the biggest stage of club football in Europe. But this will not force them to concede the game because winners never quit, and quitters never win.
“Quitters never win, and winners never quit”. That, or a variant on Vince Lombardi’s famous quote must have been re-articulated in Roberto Di Matteo’s half-time team-talk last night.
Sky commentator, Gary Neville’s ejaculatory “oooooh” at the sight of Fernando Torres’ eventual tie-clincher summed up perfectly the disbelief and hysteria that surrounded the downing of this Catalan juggernaut.
The Blues produced an astonishing rearguard performance to keep out a team hailed as one of the greatest in football’s long history.
A performance that interim boss, Di Matteo, would herald as: “an incredible achievement by this group of players.”
The first half saw Sergio Busquets put the Catalan giants 1-0 ahead after 35 minutes as Chelsea failed to locate the Spaniard from a low cross.
Minutes later it went from bad to worse for the Londoner’s as captain, John Terry, was inexplicably dismissed for sticking a knee in Alexis Sanchez’s back.
Now it is very difficult to estimate just how steep a task playing Barcelona with ten men must be, but it is likely akin to David taking on Goliath without his slingshot.
With this in mind, going 2-0 behind was not high on Chelsea’s wish-list, but that’s precisely what happened as Messi slid in Andres Iniesta to double the advantage and put his team ahead in the tie.
At this stage, many teams would have battened down the hatches and gone for damage limitations, but not Chelsea, whose typical English grit shone through like a beacon all night long.
This determination was rewarded when, seconds before the half time whistle, Frank Lampard played Ramires through down the inside-right channel.
What happened next was pure artistry, with Ramires’ first touch lofting the ball millimetres over Victor Valdes’ outstretched paw, and then dipping to caress the back of the net.
Chelsea were back in it, with their goal turning the game into a chess match, with Barcelona hammering at Chelsea’s pawns, trying their damnedest to find the checkmate.
When Fabregas was brought down by Drogba and a penalty given, Chelsea fans must have thought the writing was on the wall.
Lionel Messi, scorer of 63 goals this season, and serial-terroriser of defences stepped up to take the kick, and cannoned the ball off the crossbar.
As the minutes ticked by, Barcelona were growing increasingly desperate, anxious to work an opening, but master-class displays from all in a white shirt kept them at bay.
With one minute of injury time already played, Fernando Torres found himself in and through on the half way line after a well-guided hook from Ashley Cole, arguably Chelsea’s man of the match.
With Valdes advancing, Torres scooped the ball round him and slotted the ball into the open net to secure not only Chelsea’s spot in the final, but perhaps also a reprieve for himself, repaying much if not all of that £50million transfer fee.
Messi was reduced to crouching, staring blankly at the Nou Camp turf for answers, but none came. At the final whistle, Chelsea fans, players and staff went into realms of happiness hitherto unseen, jumping around yelling like a cat when its tail is trodden on.
In a dignified acceptance of defeat, Barca players stood up, looked Chelsea in the eyes and shook their hands, with many of the home supporters respectfully applauding the Blues’ effort.
But for all their flair, flamboyance and tiki-taka poetry, Barcelona’s prowess could not match Chelsea’s grit, determination and sheer will to see that 19th May date in Munich. Unfortunately, though all will see, not all will play.
Terry’s red card, along with the yellow’s of Meireles, Ramires and Ivanovic will see them play no part in the biggest stage of club football in Europe. But this will not force them to concede the game because winners never quit, and quitters never win.
Saturday 3 March 2012
Mitchell expecting summer Burns bout
Essex fighter has schemes on British World title fight with two-weight Champ
By Adam Appleton
Kevin Mitchell is pursuing a summer fight with WBO lightweight champion, Ricky Burns, Appleton’s Edition can exclusively reveal.
The Dagenham Destroyer was at York Hall, Bethnal Green last night attending a Five Live radio special, “Future of Boxing”, hosted by Mark Chapman, Steve Bunce and Mike Costello.
He was joined there by the likes of Frank Warren, Eddie Hearn, Darren Barker, Enzo Calzaghe, Spencer Oliver, Colin Hart as well as representatives of the Amateur Boxing Association (ABA), British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) and BBC and ITV officials.
We asked Mitchell whether he was eyeing up a fight with the Scottish World champion as he posed for a photograph.
He replied: “It’s a fight I’m very much looking at, probably for June or July, but there is still a lot of paperwork to get through first.”
Burns first has to negotiate Namibian, Paulus “The Hitman” Moses on the 10th March.
He was changed from interim to official WBO champion when Juan Manuel Marquez went up to light-welterweight. This will be his first defence.
Mitchell was devastatingly knocked out in 3 rounds by Australian Michael Katsidis, putting his hopes of superstardom on hold.
When he fought John Murray fourteen months later in a much-anticipated return, Mitchell triumphed in an exhilarating 8th round TKO.
After the fight, he told reporters he had suffered personally around the time he fought Katsidis.
Whether true or false, the same Katsidis was out-boxed by Ricky Burns in a unanimous 12-round decision in a title-eliminator.
However Mitchell has matured since his sole defeat in 33 fights, not only as a boxer, but as a man.
He is currently working in several inner-city schools, trying to encourage a re-introduction of boxing in school to infuse youths with the same discipline and goals that he had.
Oh, you Bute!
Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn also announced that his new charge Carl
Froch has agreed to take on the much-untested, but undefeated IBF super-middleweight champion Lucian Bute.
The Cobra will take on the 32 year old Canada-based Romanian in Nottingham on the 26th May.
Hearn was delighted that they had managed to get Bute to fight outside adopted home, saying: “I have to respect Lucian and his team for agreeing to enter the Lion's Den and face Carl in his hometown, but am fully confident that Carl can become a world champion again.”
Read more at: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/boxing/article-2108900/Carl-Froch-fight-Lucian-Bute-Nottingham-May-26.html#ixzz1nzs8v9zE
By Adam Appleton
Kevin Mitchell is pursuing a summer fight with WBO lightweight champion, Ricky Burns, Appleton’s Edition can exclusively reveal.
The Dagenham Destroyer was at York Hall, Bethnal Green last night attending a Five Live radio special, “Future of Boxing”, hosted by Mark Chapman, Steve Bunce and Mike Costello.
He was joined there by the likes of Frank Warren, Eddie Hearn, Darren Barker, Enzo Calzaghe, Spencer Oliver, Colin Hart as well as representatives of the Amateur Boxing Association (ABA), British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) and BBC and ITV officials.
We asked Mitchell whether he was eyeing up a fight with the Scottish World champion as he posed for a photograph.
He replied: “It’s a fight I’m very much looking at, probably for June or July, but there is still a lot of paperwork to get through first.”
Burns first has to negotiate Namibian, Paulus “The Hitman” Moses on the 10th March.
He was changed from interim to official WBO champion when Juan Manuel Marquez went up to light-welterweight. This will be his first defence.
Mitchell was devastatingly knocked out in 3 rounds by Australian Michael Katsidis, putting his hopes of superstardom on hold.
When he fought John Murray fourteen months later in a much-anticipated return, Mitchell triumphed in an exhilarating 8th round TKO.
After the fight, he told reporters he had suffered personally around the time he fought Katsidis.
Whether true or false, the same Katsidis was out-boxed by Ricky Burns in a unanimous 12-round decision in a title-eliminator.
However Mitchell has matured since his sole defeat in 33 fights, not only as a boxer, but as a man.
He is currently working in several inner-city schools, trying to encourage a re-introduction of boxing in school to infuse youths with the same discipline and goals that he had.
Oh, you Bute!
Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn also announced that his new charge Carl
Froch has agreed to take on the much-untested, but undefeated IBF super-middleweight champion Lucian Bute.
The Cobra will take on the 32 year old Canada-based Romanian in Nottingham on the 26th May.
Hearn was delighted that they had managed to get Bute to fight outside adopted home, saying: “I have to respect Lucian and his team for agreeing to enter the Lion's Den and face Carl in his hometown, but am fully confident that Carl can become a world champion again.”
Read more at: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/boxing/article-2108900/Carl-Froch-fight-Lucian-Bute-Nottingham-May-26.html#ixzz1nzs8v9zE
Monday 13 February 2012
Poor team selection Spears Liverpool’s Champion’s League hopes
By Adam Appleton
Liverpool’s Champion’s League hopes were dealt a severe blow today as they were defeated by Manchester United.
The Red’s lost 2-1 at Old Trafford in a highly-charged encounter that saw Wayne Rooney score a brace before Luis Suarez struck a consolation goal.
The Uruguayan striker was facing Patrice Evra for the first time since the Frenchman accused him of racist behaviour when the two sides met at Anfield in October.
Having served his subsequent 8-match ban, Suarez then refused to shake Evra’s hand, much to the annoyance of the wing-back. Suarez was then, in-turn, refused handshakes by Ferdinand, Valencia and Welbeck, United’s black players.
There was much surprise when Craig Bellamy and Charlie Adam were only on the bench.
Instead, Liverpool picked the far more defensively-minded options of Downing and Kuyt on the wings, whilst Jay Spearing and Jordan Henderson were both preferred over Scotland international, Adam.
They managed to keep the score-line to 0-0 for half-time despite playing averagely, but in the second half Liverpool really were a disappointment.
Dalglish later admitted that the Red Devil’s were the better team, before angrily defending Suarez, saying: “I think to suggest that (Suarez caused a tense environment) is bang out of order!”
Sir Alex Ferguson countered, branding Suarez a ‘disgrace’ and telling Liverpool to get rid of him.
It was Spearing that was to blame for the second United goal, attempting a risky pass against Valencia, who then broke free and squared to Rooney.
Such mistakes did little to justify Dalglish’s decision to leave out Adam and Bellamy.
It is hard to say that Arsenal, Chelsea, Newcastle or Manchester City would leave out Robin Van Persie, Daniel Sturridge, Demba Ba or Sergio Aguero in any equally big game as Liverpool did with Bellamy.
Only Glen Johnson and Jose Enrique had a good showing, and only when the former was pressing forward.
Steven Gerrard was poor, constantly misplacing passes, Luis Suarez, in spite of his goal, was never going to have his best game, whilst Stewart Downing and Dirk Kuyt were, at times, non-existent down the flanks.
Not only did Liverpool lose, but worse, they deserved to lose because in games with prestige like these you must always pick your strongest side.
But Everton-youth Wayne Rooney saw to this, and you know it’s been a strange day when he comes out with the most philosophical comment: “They are both professionals and that (the handshake incident) is between those two individuals.”
Liverpool’s Champion’s League hopes were dealt a severe blow today as they were defeated by Manchester United.
The Red’s lost 2-1 at Old Trafford in a highly-charged encounter that saw Wayne Rooney score a brace before Luis Suarez struck a consolation goal.
The Uruguayan striker was facing Patrice Evra for the first time since the Frenchman accused him of racist behaviour when the two sides met at Anfield in October.
Having served his subsequent 8-match ban, Suarez then refused to shake Evra’s hand, much to the annoyance of the wing-back. Suarez was then, in-turn, refused handshakes by Ferdinand, Valencia and Welbeck, United’s black players.
There was much surprise when Craig Bellamy and Charlie Adam were only on the bench.
Instead, Liverpool picked the far more defensively-minded options of Downing and Kuyt on the wings, whilst Jay Spearing and Jordan Henderson were both preferred over Scotland international, Adam.
They managed to keep the score-line to 0-0 for half-time despite playing averagely, but in the second half Liverpool really were a disappointment.
Dalglish later admitted that the Red Devil’s were the better team, before angrily defending Suarez, saying: “I think to suggest that (Suarez caused a tense environment) is bang out of order!”
Sir Alex Ferguson countered, branding Suarez a ‘disgrace’ and telling Liverpool to get rid of him.
It was Spearing that was to blame for the second United goal, attempting a risky pass against Valencia, who then broke free and squared to Rooney.
Such mistakes did little to justify Dalglish’s decision to leave out Adam and Bellamy.
It is hard to say that Arsenal, Chelsea, Newcastle or Manchester City would leave out Robin Van Persie, Daniel Sturridge, Demba Ba or Sergio Aguero in any equally big game as Liverpool did with Bellamy.
Only Glen Johnson and Jose Enrique had a good showing, and only when the former was pressing forward.
Steven Gerrard was poor, constantly misplacing passes, Luis Suarez, in spite of his goal, was never going to have his best game, whilst Stewart Downing and Dirk Kuyt were, at times, non-existent down the flanks.
Not only did Liverpool lose, but worse, they deserved to lose because in games with prestige like these you must always pick your strongest side.
But Everton-youth Wayne Rooney saw to this, and you know it’s been a strange day when he comes out with the most philosophical comment: “They are both professionals and that (the handshake incident) is between those two individuals.”
Tuesday 7 February 2012
Is Klitschko fight Vitali important for Haye?
By Adam Appleton
It has emerged that David Haye is in talks with Vitali Klitschko in spite of the 31 year-old’s October retirement.
The Bermondsey man has allegedly weighed up his options and is negotiating a meeting with the 40 year old Klitschko.
In his final fight before ‘retirement’, Haye lost weakly to WBO, IBO, IBF and now WBA champion Wladimir Klitschko in a unanimous points decision, giving the Klitschko brother’s all the alphabet heavyweight belts.
As a consequence, Vitali is not likely to be so generous with Haye financially as his brother was for their July bout.
The story of David Haye and the Klitschko brother’s dates back to April 2009 with the brash Londoner ruffling feathers with his trash talk, a fight was arranged but Haye withdrew with a back injury.
Haye also wore the now famous “severed heads” t-shirt to cause further animousity.
The Briton then beat Russian giant Nicolai Valuev on points, claiming the WBA title before defeating John Ruiz and later Audley Harrison in one of the division’s most farcical fights.
With these defences won, Haye appeared the only real threat to the Klitschko’s domination. But this hope was shattered by the tentative performance that came in Hamburg.
Now it seems that Haye has vengeful schemes on fighting Vitali Klitschko.
Reports from both camps say that the contract talks are on hold until after Vitali faces Dereck Chisora on 18th February in Munich, but rumours say a fight could happen in November.
Klitschko’s manager Bernd Boente said: “Vitali wants to finish what his brother didn’t do, meaning knock out David Haye.”
If this is indeed true, the man from Bermondsey has much to fear.
Not only is he challenging the man with the record knockout percentage in heavyweight history, not only the same man who arguably chased Lennox Lewis into retirement, but Vitali can also claim to have never been conclusively beaten.
In the last big heavyweight clash before Haye versus Klitschko, Klitschko was controversially stopped in 6 rounds by Lennox Lewis in Los Angeles in 2003. A deep cut above the left eye caused the stoppage and plans for a rematch were dashed by Lewis’ retirement.
His only other loss occurred when a torn rotator cuff forced his withdrawal against Chris Byrd in 2000. In both these defeats, the German-based Ukrainian was unanimously ahead on the judges scorecards.
In spite of this nine year unbeaten streak, Hall of Fame trainer Emanuel Steward believes Haye’s style could work more effectively against Vitali.
“Vitali is bigger and hits hard but he comes straight in and doesn’t have the same balance and elusive movement as Wladimir, so David might give him a little more trouble.”
Indeed it is a style that got Haye a near-flawless record. Until meeting Klitschko, his only previous loss came against Carl Thompson in 2004 when an over-active Haye threw in the towel by the end of the 5th round.
Should Haye decide to dwell on tales from the past, he might be advised to think better of targeting the arguably superior Klitschko.
Sugar Ray Leonard and Muhammad Ali succumbed to breaking retirements and both paid for it. Ali was beaten up by Larry Holmes before losing to Trevor Berbick. Leonard did beat Marvin Hagler, Tommy Hearns and Roberto Duran, but eventually lost to Terry Norris and Hector Camacho.
However Floyd Mayweather made it work, coming back from retirement to beat the likes of Juan Manuel Marquez and Shane Mosley.
Haye has much to consider before stepping back into the ring. Fitness and age are no issue to him as they were to Leonard and Ali, at 31 he has been training lightly in case of such an offer from Vitali. The issue is his legacy, if there is to be one.
He must consider the risk:reward; If he beats Dr Ironfist, great, that will add to or maybe even give him legacy.
If he loses, he will be remembered as the man who could not back up his infamous trash-talk, and as the man whose only big heavyweight scalp was Nicolai Valuev, hardly a Hall of Famer.
Although his reputation as one of the finest Cruiserweights remains untarnished, his performances in boxing’s headline division will live long in the memory of many fans.
To me, Haye the heavyweight still has much to prove. So go on David, show us what you are made of and take on Vitali, you owe your fans a better lasting memory than excusing your performance on a broken toe and ultimately failing on the biggest night of your career.
ENDS
It has emerged that David Haye is in talks with Vitali Klitschko in spite of the 31 year-old’s October retirement.
The Bermondsey man has allegedly weighed up his options and is negotiating a meeting with the 40 year old Klitschko.
In his final fight before ‘retirement’, Haye lost weakly to WBO, IBO, IBF and now WBA champion Wladimir Klitschko in a unanimous points decision, giving the Klitschko brother’s all the alphabet heavyweight belts.
As a consequence, Vitali is not likely to be so generous with Haye financially as his brother was for their July bout.
The story of David Haye and the Klitschko brother’s dates back to April 2009 with the brash Londoner ruffling feathers with his trash talk, a fight was arranged but Haye withdrew with a back injury.
Haye also wore the now famous “severed heads” t-shirt to cause further animousity.
The Briton then beat Russian giant Nicolai Valuev on points, claiming the WBA title before defeating John Ruiz and later Audley Harrison in one of the division’s most farcical fights.
With these defences won, Haye appeared the only real threat to the Klitschko’s domination. But this hope was shattered by the tentative performance that came in Hamburg.
Now it seems that Haye has vengeful schemes on fighting Vitali Klitschko.
Reports from both camps say that the contract talks are on hold until after Vitali faces Dereck Chisora on 18th February in Munich, but rumours say a fight could happen in November.
Klitschko’s manager Bernd Boente said: “Vitali wants to finish what his brother didn’t do, meaning knock out David Haye.”
If this is indeed true, the man from Bermondsey has much to fear.
Not only is he challenging the man with the record knockout percentage in heavyweight history, not only the same man who arguably chased Lennox Lewis into retirement, but Vitali can also claim to have never been conclusively beaten.
In the last big heavyweight clash before Haye versus Klitschko, Klitschko was controversially stopped in 6 rounds by Lennox Lewis in Los Angeles in 2003. A deep cut above the left eye caused the stoppage and plans for a rematch were dashed by Lewis’ retirement.
His only other loss occurred when a torn rotator cuff forced his withdrawal against Chris Byrd in 2000. In both these defeats, the German-based Ukrainian was unanimously ahead on the judges scorecards.
In spite of this nine year unbeaten streak, Hall of Fame trainer Emanuel Steward believes Haye’s style could work more effectively against Vitali.
“Vitali is bigger and hits hard but he comes straight in and doesn’t have the same balance and elusive movement as Wladimir, so David might give him a little more trouble.”
Indeed it is a style that got Haye a near-flawless record. Until meeting Klitschko, his only previous loss came against Carl Thompson in 2004 when an over-active Haye threw in the towel by the end of the 5th round.
Should Haye decide to dwell on tales from the past, he might be advised to think better of targeting the arguably superior Klitschko.
Sugar Ray Leonard and Muhammad Ali succumbed to breaking retirements and both paid for it. Ali was beaten up by Larry Holmes before losing to Trevor Berbick. Leonard did beat Marvin Hagler, Tommy Hearns and Roberto Duran, but eventually lost to Terry Norris and Hector Camacho.
However Floyd Mayweather made it work, coming back from retirement to beat the likes of Juan Manuel Marquez and Shane Mosley.
Haye has much to consider before stepping back into the ring. Fitness and age are no issue to him as they were to Leonard and Ali, at 31 he has been training lightly in case of such an offer from Vitali. The issue is his legacy, if there is to be one.
He must consider the risk:reward; If he beats Dr Ironfist, great, that will add to or maybe even give him legacy.
If he loses, he will be remembered as the man who could not back up his infamous trash-talk, and as the man whose only big heavyweight scalp was Nicolai Valuev, hardly a Hall of Famer.
Although his reputation as one of the finest Cruiserweights remains untarnished, his performances in boxing’s headline division will live long in the memory of many fans.
To me, Haye the heavyweight still has much to prove. So go on David, show us what you are made of and take on Vitali, you owe your fans a better lasting memory than excusing your performance on a broken toe and ultimately failing on the biggest night of your career.
ENDS
The F1 Number One
By Adam Appleton
On 1st May, it will be 18 years since the passing of world-famous driver Ayrton Senna after a fatal crash at Imola.
But many still look back on his era and ask: ‘Was he the greatest driver ever?’
Many answers spring to mind; Ascari, Villeneuve, Clark, Mansell, Piquet, Stewart, Fangio, Brabham and Lauda, and maybe Vettel, Alonso and Hamilton may, someday, join that illustrious pack.
However, three names always seem to emerge as the most legitimate contenders; Alain Prost, Michael Schumacher and Senna himself.
Between 1985 and 2004, they claimed 14 driver’s titles, Schumacher seven, Prost four and Senna three.
For me, Senna and Schumacher emerge over Prost.
Prost won his titles in the best cars, and was nearly always the preferred driver of those teams.
His methodical approach did not draw many supporters either, he did not take gambles and was a poor wet-weather driver.
He also had FISA President Jean-Marie Balestre, a Frenchman, providing several decisions in his favour and against Senna.
But Prost’s lack of grounding in less competitive cars stops him gaining this status, because Senna and Schumacher both made their way up from unfashionable manufacturers.
They also both excelled early in their careers.
Senna scored points in his second and third races in the uncompetitive Toleman car, and then finished second in a rain-filled Monaco Grand Prix, 1984.
Schumacher issued early warnings of his precocious talent, qualifying 7th on debut at Spa, also the setting for his maiden victory in 1992.
The German would drive for Benetton, Ferrari and Mercedes GP, and Senna for Lotus, McLaren and finally Williams.
Both were controversial figures, due to their aggressive styles and exaggerated will to win.
Most of Senna’s incidents involved Prost, the synonymous duo had a rivalry more public than Formula One had ever seen.
They first clashed at the 1989 title-decider at Suzuka. They collided as Senna tried to overtake Prost, Senna managed a push-start and won the race.
However, he was left fuming after being disqualified by Balestre for cutting the chicane to rejoin the race, leaving Prost to take the title.
Further controversy followed at Suzuka the following year.
Senna took pole position ahead of Prost, but believed he was on the “dirty” side of the grid.
Prost looked to have the lead into the first corner, only for Senna to plough into him to win the title.
The incident drew reaction from both drivers, Prost saying: “Ayrton has a problem in that he does not think he can die.”
Senna however, was unrepentant: “If you no longer go for a gap, you are no longer a racing driver… I am not designed to finish 3rd or 4th or 5th.”
Schumacher also had title-related controversies early in his career.
In Adelaide, 1994, Schumacher led Damon Hill by a point.
On lap 36, Schumacher, leading, ran wide critically damaging his car on the wall.
Hill, sensing an opportunity tried to overtake but Schumacher shut the door on him, sending both out of the race, conveniently handing Schumacher the title.
Many believe that Schumacher caused the crash to ensure him and Benetton the championship.
In a near-identical incident at Jerez in 1997, Schumacher – now at Ferrari – turned in on Jacques Villeneuve but could only tap his side-pod, meaning Villeneuve took the title. It also did not stop Schumacher getting an awful press reaction.
When it finally boils down to answering this question, it is not the controversies that separate them, but instead the quality of the era they raced in.
Schumacher’s biggest rivals were Damon Hill, Mika Hakkinen and Fernando Alonso.
These names are incomparable to the men Senna shined against; Alain Prost, Nigel Mansell and Nelson Piquet, all great in their own respect.
This divides the two because whilst Schumacher holds the biggest records; most pole positions (68), most victories (91) and most World Championship (7), a purist like me will always say that Senna was the greatest in the greastest era.
This is perhaps best shown in terms of pole positions, Schumacher’s F1 career has been six seasons and counting longer than Senna’s, but he has only managed three more pole positions.
He was likely the most naturally talented pilot in history and it is difficult pinpoint particular races in Senna’s career because he was incredible in so many.
So whilst the numbers point to the German, the Brazilian had an almost unquantifiable asset to his driving. It may not have been metronomic but, to quote Murray Walker, it was “absolutely sensational!”
ENDS
On 1st May, it will be 18 years since the passing of world-famous driver Ayrton Senna after a fatal crash at Imola.
But many still look back on his era and ask: ‘Was he the greatest driver ever?’
Many answers spring to mind; Ascari, Villeneuve, Clark, Mansell, Piquet, Stewart, Fangio, Brabham and Lauda, and maybe Vettel, Alonso and Hamilton may, someday, join that illustrious pack.
However, three names always seem to emerge as the most legitimate contenders; Alain Prost, Michael Schumacher and Senna himself.
Between 1985 and 2004, they claimed 14 driver’s titles, Schumacher seven, Prost four and Senna three.
For me, Senna and Schumacher emerge over Prost.
Prost won his titles in the best cars, and was nearly always the preferred driver of those teams.
His methodical approach did not draw many supporters either, he did not take gambles and was a poor wet-weather driver.
He also had FISA President Jean-Marie Balestre, a Frenchman, providing several decisions in his favour and against Senna.
But Prost’s lack of grounding in less competitive cars stops him gaining this status, because Senna and Schumacher both made their way up from unfashionable manufacturers.
They also both excelled early in their careers.
Senna scored points in his second and third races in the uncompetitive Toleman car, and then finished second in a rain-filled Monaco Grand Prix, 1984.
Schumacher issued early warnings of his precocious talent, qualifying 7th on debut at Spa, also the setting for his maiden victory in 1992.
The German would drive for Benetton, Ferrari and Mercedes GP, and Senna for Lotus, McLaren and finally Williams.
Both were controversial figures, due to their aggressive styles and exaggerated will to win.
Most of Senna’s incidents involved Prost, the synonymous duo had a rivalry more public than Formula One had ever seen.
They first clashed at the 1989 title-decider at Suzuka. They collided as Senna tried to overtake Prost, Senna managed a push-start and won the race.
However, he was left fuming after being disqualified by Balestre for cutting the chicane to rejoin the race, leaving Prost to take the title.
Further controversy followed at Suzuka the following year.
Senna took pole position ahead of Prost, but believed he was on the “dirty” side of the grid.
Prost looked to have the lead into the first corner, only for Senna to plough into him to win the title.
The incident drew reaction from both drivers, Prost saying: “Ayrton has a problem in that he does not think he can die.”
Senna however, was unrepentant: “If you no longer go for a gap, you are no longer a racing driver… I am not designed to finish 3rd or 4th or 5th.”
Schumacher also had title-related controversies early in his career.
In Adelaide, 1994, Schumacher led Damon Hill by a point.
On lap 36, Schumacher, leading, ran wide critically damaging his car on the wall.
Hill, sensing an opportunity tried to overtake but Schumacher shut the door on him, sending both out of the race, conveniently handing Schumacher the title.
Many believe that Schumacher caused the crash to ensure him and Benetton the championship.
In a near-identical incident at Jerez in 1997, Schumacher – now at Ferrari – turned in on Jacques Villeneuve but could only tap his side-pod, meaning Villeneuve took the title. It also did not stop Schumacher getting an awful press reaction.
When it finally boils down to answering this question, it is not the controversies that separate them, but instead the quality of the era they raced in.
Schumacher’s biggest rivals were Damon Hill, Mika Hakkinen and Fernando Alonso.
These names are incomparable to the men Senna shined against; Alain Prost, Nigel Mansell and Nelson Piquet, all great in their own respect.
This divides the two because whilst Schumacher holds the biggest records; most pole positions (68), most victories (91) and most World Championship (7), a purist like me will always say that Senna was the greatest in the greastest era.
This is perhaps best shown in terms of pole positions, Schumacher’s F1 career has been six seasons and counting longer than Senna’s, but he has only managed three more pole positions.
He was likely the most naturally talented pilot in history and it is difficult pinpoint particular races in Senna’s career because he was incredible in so many.
So whilst the numbers point to the German, the Brazilian had an almost unquantifiable asset to his driving. It may not have been metronomic but, to quote Murray Walker, it was “absolutely sensational!”
ENDS
Time to Pieter out?
By Adam Appleton
Many of England’s batsmen find themselves under serious pressure after poor performances against Pakistan, none more so than Kevin Pietersen.
The three-match series – which has been taking place in the United Arab Emirates due to the current security concerns in Pakistan – has seen Pakistan go 2-0 ahead and take a commanding position in the third match.
Such a result has seen blame fly around, much of which has been squarely aimed at England’s batsmen.
Their numbers so far do not make for good reading, they have managing only 352 and 399 runs overall in the respective matches.
Kevin Pietersen is taking a good brunt of this, not only due to his lack of runs but because of his dismissals on this tour.
In the First Test he incredibly decided to hook Umar Gul whilst still on nought, giving away his wicket as he was caught at deep square leg.
Then in both of his last two innings’, the old fallacy of slow left-arm round-the-wicket bowling has haunted him with Rehman trapping him in front on both occasions.
What worries England fans is that he has not learnt from his mistakes. This weakness has been spoken about for at least two years now, yet he has either not done enough to counter it, or is simply unable to.
Obviously only having mustered 49 runs from 5 innings’ at an average of 9.8 and a top-score of 32 does not stand in his favour.
In fact, there is a favourable chance that these technical failures might be forgiven had he managed 300 runs in the series.
What does stand in his favour is that he is not the only horribly under-performing batsman in the team.
He is also the most senior, therefore the most embedded run-maker that is struggling, meaning he will likely get more chances.
Eoin Morgan and Ian Bell also find themselves under scrutiny, particularly the former as he is the most junior batsman and looks like he is finding the adaptation to Test match cricket difficult.
Indeed Morgan will likely be the first to get dropped even if there are several strugglers simply because he is the most junior.
This may well save Pietersen from further scrutiny as the selectors will not want to get rid of him likely having been the cornerstone of the batting line-up since he burst onto the scene against Australia in the 2005 Ashes.
However, it could also add to the pressure.
As he is this senior figure, many will say that he should start acting and more importantly batting as such.
He does not seem to consider employing a Plan B batting style if he fails to come in and dominate the bowling straight away as has happened too many times recently and will continue to happen if his confidence is low, which it surely will be.
England need more frequent scores from him as he is filling this senior role. If he is scoring runs, the pressure will be off players like Eoin Morgan, enabling them to play a little more freely, the same way Trescothick and Vaughan did for Pietersen in his early days.
This is not the first time that Pietersen has come under the cosh.
Going into the 2010/11 Ashes in Australia, both Pietersen and Cook were under dire pressure to re-prove their worth to the team after both had lean patches in the run-up.
766 runs and an Ashes victory later Cook had shoved the critics words back down their throats.
Pietersen’s own contribution was comparatively quiet, but in a normal series 360 runs at an average of 60 would be a clear warning of form.
But he out-did this with a superb home series against India as England took a 4-0 whitewash and the Number 1 Test Team ranking.
Scoring 533 runs in 6 innings with 2 centuries, Pietersen was leading run-scorer, edging out Ian Bell and Rahul Dravid.
This shows that Pietersen has had form in the past year and perhaps, like the rest of the English batsmen, he has simply struggled to make runs on the wickets in the UAE.
England selectors and fans alike will hope this is the case because it will be a sign of weakness if it comes to the point where Pietersen has to be sacrificed.
Not only is this because there is no like-for-like replacement for him, but because he is such a gifted individual once he is in flow.
He is arguably the most talented batsmen of his generation along with AB De Villiers and Michael Clarke and England need him firing out runs to maintain their Number 1 Test status.
ENDS
Many of England’s batsmen find themselves under serious pressure after poor performances against Pakistan, none more so than Kevin Pietersen.
The three-match series – which has been taking place in the United Arab Emirates due to the current security concerns in Pakistan – has seen Pakistan go 2-0 ahead and take a commanding position in the third match.
Such a result has seen blame fly around, much of which has been squarely aimed at England’s batsmen.
Their numbers so far do not make for good reading, they have managing only 352 and 399 runs overall in the respective matches.
Kevin Pietersen is taking a good brunt of this, not only due to his lack of runs but because of his dismissals on this tour.
In the First Test he incredibly decided to hook Umar Gul whilst still on nought, giving away his wicket as he was caught at deep square leg.
Then in both of his last two innings’, the old fallacy of slow left-arm round-the-wicket bowling has haunted him with Rehman trapping him in front on both occasions.
What worries England fans is that he has not learnt from his mistakes. This weakness has been spoken about for at least two years now, yet he has either not done enough to counter it, or is simply unable to.
Obviously only having mustered 49 runs from 5 innings’ at an average of 9.8 and a top-score of 32 does not stand in his favour.
In fact, there is a favourable chance that these technical failures might be forgiven had he managed 300 runs in the series.
What does stand in his favour is that he is not the only horribly under-performing batsman in the team.
He is also the most senior, therefore the most embedded run-maker that is struggling, meaning he will likely get more chances.
Eoin Morgan and Ian Bell also find themselves under scrutiny, particularly the former as he is the most junior batsman and looks like he is finding the adaptation to Test match cricket difficult.
Indeed Morgan will likely be the first to get dropped even if there are several strugglers simply because he is the most junior.
This may well save Pietersen from further scrutiny as the selectors will not want to get rid of him likely having been the cornerstone of the batting line-up since he burst onto the scene against Australia in the 2005 Ashes.
However, it could also add to the pressure.
As he is this senior figure, many will say that he should start acting and more importantly batting as such.
He does not seem to consider employing a Plan B batting style if he fails to come in and dominate the bowling straight away as has happened too many times recently and will continue to happen if his confidence is low, which it surely will be.
England need more frequent scores from him as he is filling this senior role. If he is scoring runs, the pressure will be off players like Eoin Morgan, enabling them to play a little more freely, the same way Trescothick and Vaughan did for Pietersen in his early days.
This is not the first time that Pietersen has come under the cosh.
Going into the 2010/11 Ashes in Australia, both Pietersen and Cook were under dire pressure to re-prove their worth to the team after both had lean patches in the run-up.
766 runs and an Ashes victory later Cook had shoved the critics words back down their throats.
Pietersen’s own contribution was comparatively quiet, but in a normal series 360 runs at an average of 60 would be a clear warning of form.
But he out-did this with a superb home series against India as England took a 4-0 whitewash and the Number 1 Test Team ranking.
Scoring 533 runs in 6 innings with 2 centuries, Pietersen was leading run-scorer, edging out Ian Bell and Rahul Dravid.
This shows that Pietersen has had form in the past year and perhaps, like the rest of the English batsmen, he has simply struggled to make runs on the wickets in the UAE.
England selectors and fans alike will hope this is the case because it will be a sign of weakness if it comes to the point where Pietersen has to be sacrificed.
Not only is this because there is no like-for-like replacement for him, but because he is such a gifted individual once he is in flow.
He is arguably the most talented batsmen of his generation along with AB De Villiers and Michael Clarke and England need him firing out runs to maintain their Number 1 Test status.
ENDS
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