cricket t20 champions

Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by 8 wickets on Sunday, 21 June, at Lords to become the new T20 champions. Pakistan lost to India in the first T20 world cup in South Africa two years back

cricket tips and tricks

Cricket Tips – Bowling

When bowling in cricket there are many possible cricket tips or hints that can help improve your bowling.




In bowling, a combination of natural ability, good technique and practice is the recipe for good bowling, whether it is fast, slow or spin.



Here are some tips that will help your bowling and when implemented correctly your bowling speed:



The basic grip to hold the ball is to keep the seam vertical and to hold the ball with your index finger and middle finger either side of the seam with the side of your thumb resting on the seam underneath the ball.



In your approach/run in, try to stay:



Smooth,

Balanced,

Economical,

Rhythmical,

Consistent and stay relaxed and try not to tense up.

During your approach and action, your head position is very important. Make sure that as you approach the wicket you are running at a steady, consistent speed, and increase strides. Aim to keep your head as steady and level as possible, looking towards your target.



Pull your front arm down and through the target area, making sure you complete the delivery with a full follow through.
Try to keep everything in the same direction, towards your target, keep your hips and shoulders parallel/in-line, and follow through the delivery in the direction where you intend the ball to go.




Also as a bowler it is very important to stay in great shape, as you’ll enjoy the game more and perform better in the latter stages if you have good stamina. So incorporating some light weight sessions in to your training is important.



Also aim to try and run 3 times a week to keep your cardiovascular system in top condition and to improve your stamina. South African fast bowler Makhaya Ntini, is well know for running 10Km every morning, even on match days!



But make sure you consult your coach/doctor/gym instructor before starting any sessions.

Furious Sports Bicycle by Nenad Kostadinov

It’s a bit refreshing to see an industrial designer develop a bike concept that doesn’t fold. As cyclists ourselves, we don’t quite like folding bikes. The speed/weight losses are just too great to make up for the fact that they can fold in half. The Furious Sports Bicycle by Nenad Kostadinov appears to be focused on performance, yet adding a bit of futurism in design. The frame of the Furious bike is thin and aerodynamic, with the thickness to support the weight of its rider. The black fork may suggest a carbon fiber build, and the disk brakes and triangle mags are clearly apparent. This multi-speed bike also features an on-board computer, showing speed and route information on a display between the flat handlebars. Nice concept, Nenad. Our only criticism is that the seat appears to be less-than-comfortable.

This is an interesting looking design. The designer might have looked a little more closely at the physics of how steering works in two wheeled vehicles and, in particular, the need for the contact patch of the front tire to be behind the steering axis. Put simply, this bicycle would be impossible or miserable to ride. So… cool sculpture, but unworkable as a bicycle.


Fascinating concept… but it has resulted in an imaginary design with little chance for reality. Alex is totally correct–the steering axis needs to be on top of the contact patch of the front wheel. Bicycle designers determined that years ago. Had there been further optimization by shifting it, they would have done so. I believe the design is more for aesthetics than functionality.

Geneva 2010: Pagani Zonda Tricolore

On the occasion of the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the “Frecce Tricolori”, Pagani Automobili created the Zonda Tricolore as a tribute to the National Aerobatic Team
In 2010 the aerobatic season of the Frecce Tricolori comes to its 50th anniversary, wich will be celebrated on 11th and 12th September at Rivolto Airport (info: www.aeronautica.difesa.it).




The Frecce Tricolori (Italian, literally Tricolour Arrows), officially known as the 313th Aerobatic Training Squadron is the demonstration team of the Italian Air Force, based at Rivolto Air Force Base, in the north-eastern Italian region of Friuli Venezia-Giulia, province of Udine. They were formed in 1961 as an Air Force team, replacing previous teams that had been sponsored by various commands by the end of the 1920s.



The team flies the Aermacchi MB-339-A/PAN, a two-seat aircraft capable of 898 km/h at sea level, with nine aircraft and a solo (the highest number of aircraft of any aerobatic team in the world).



The Frecce Tricolori belong to the legacy of the entire Italian community

PRIOR-Design refines Porsche 911 GT3

Right at the start of the New Year, PRIOR-Design presented its latest aerodynamic achievement. The goal of the new aerodynamic package wasn?t to reinvent the wheel. The motto was actually complete perfecIn detail: thanks to its design, the revised front section ensures an improved supply of fresh air as well as improved levels of downforce. The single most important factor behind these results is the revised dispersal of the air flows through the carbon spoiler blade and the carbon inlets. With the help of the sd-value enhancing sills, the side line of the GT3 is guided seamlessly to the rear, ending at a rear section which is also new. Along with its visuals, the rear section also offers advantages in terms of driving stability and air supply. These improvements have been achieved by a diffusor which contains two integrated carbon fins. The end of the muffler is completely enclosed, which additionally optimises the aerodynamic attributes. Air inlets which are positioned on the left and the right, are additionally strengthened with two carbon inlets. The GT3 wing, designed in Stuttgart, was judged to be sound by the PRIOR-Design team and therefore remains unchanged. The materials used in the 911 PD3 aerodynamics programme correspond with PRIOR-Design’s latest technological advances. A newly developed carbon-flex fibre glass composite was used, which both saves weight at the same time as offering a maximum level of strength and sufficient flexibility. This means that the necessary level of stability is guaranteed at speeds both up to and beyond 300 km/h.




To convey a genuine feeling of individuality and perfection, along with the aerodynamic and visual aspects, it was necessary for the subjective vehicles dynamic feeling in the form of noise and handling characteristics to be completed. This also includes the option of an in-house designed, hand-made stainless steel exhaust system, which in addition to a positive performance development also offers the driver a virtuoso driving experience over the full rev range, all the way up to 8,400 revs/min.



In addition to this, an ultra light, multi-section forged wheel that has been developed according to the toughest requirements is also available. This can be developed in a choice of different dimensions on the basis of customer request, and due to its variable size, offers an improved distribution of performance and road handling. The adapted chassis means that the body is now some 30 millimetres closer to the road surface, and the deeper centre of gravity that results improves both the handling and feedback of the vehicle without compromising the levels of driving comfort in any way.

Honda CBR1000RR

If there's a sports bike equivalent to a Honda S2000 convertible, it could very well be the Honda CBR1000RR. By that, we mean the reliability and fun factors are high, and the bang for the buck is hard to beat. It's likely that the only drama of ownership would be seeing red and blue lights in your mirrors.




For 2006, Honda has restyled their largest-displacement CBR around their feared-and-revered MotoGP RC211V. As a result, the latest 1000RR boasts a lighter weight, better handling and even greater power than before. The redesigned skin is not a night-and-day difference from its predecessor, but it's nicely updated and offered in aggressive paint schemes that successfully stop short of looking tacky.



As for that bang-for-the-buck factor we mentioned, the new CBR1000RR is a steal with its base MSRP of $11,299 -- leaving enough in the bank for the tickets you'll invariably collect.

Honda to launch Super Bikes in India along with 125cc Bike

As other Motorcycle manufacturers are launching their Premium super/ sports bikes in India, Honda recently confirmed that they will also be launching their premium segment super sports bikes in India above 800cc including their Honda CBR 1000RR (Honda Fireblade). Hope they will be in the 2009 models

Flag Football Tips

Flag football is an exciting game which can be enjoyed by men, women and children of all ages. While promoting teamwork and strategy, the game also includes many natural health benefits.




While some players don’t care about the final score, being successful at flag football can make the game more enjoyable for everyone involved.



For this reason, I’ve decided to put together a list of flag football tips.



Even following half of these suggestions should translate into added success on the field.



Develop a Strategy – When playing flag football, there’s more to the game than just raw athleticism. In fact, a team with a good strategy is often likely to beat a group of superior athletes who lack a plan.



For example, it’s important to go for first downs instead of focusing just on scoring. Establishing a rhythm and methodically moving down the field will wear down the defense both mentally and physically. This can be accomplished through short passes, running plays and an occasional trick play or long pass thrown into the mix.
Close-up of the Hand of an American Football Player Holding a Football Photographic Print



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Framed – Mounted
Experiment – Early in the season, your team should experiment with various plays to see what works best. A few weeks into the season, you should have determined what’s best for your team. You can then concentrate on perfecting these plays throughout the rest of the season, which will serve you especially well once the league playoffs roll around.


Throwing a Spiral – One of the most important skills for a quarterback, throwing a spiral allows for more accurate passes with greater velocity. To throw a tight spiral, first hold the ball near the back with your fingers over the laces. Keep your throwing elbow tight to your body, with the ball held up near your ear. When you’ve found your target, point your non-throwing shoulder in that direction. Then throw the ball by allowing it to spin off your fingers. Be sure to follow through with the throwing motion for maximum efficiency.
Pulling the Flag – One of the most important flag football tips concerns learning how to pull the flag from the opponent. It might sound simple, but shifty opponents can often be difficult to catch. If you can get in front of the ball carrier, he or she will have to go around you, thus giving you more time to grab the flag.


It’s also important not to stand flat-footed and wait for the ball carrier; meet them as early as possible to prevent them from building up too much momentum. Watch the hips of the ball carrier and not their feet or head. The hips will show which direction they’re heading, while other parts of the body might be used to fake you out in one direction or another.



Timing – Timing is an important skill for quarterbacks to master, and it can make the difference between an average season and a flag football championship. Ideally, the quarterback wants to throw the ball so that it arrives to the receiver just as they make their cut. If a quarterback can master this with a few routes, he will be very dangerous on the flag football field.

This skill also involves leading the receiver. Remember, you want to throw the ball where the receiver will be, not where he or she currently is. Since different receivers move at different speeds, this is a skill which is perfected through practice with your teammates.



Zone Defense – When your team doesn‘t have the ball, you might want to consider a zone defense. In this defensive scheme, each defender is responsible for a certain section of the field, covering any opposing player who enters into this area. This allows defenders to keep an eye on the quarterback and receiver at the same time, and they can also try to anticipate where the receiver is heading and beat them to the spot.

Catching a Pass – When catching a pass in flag football, it’s important to keep your eye on the ball at all times. As the ball heads in your direction, form a triangle with your hands using your index fingers and thumbs. Try to keep the ball away from your body, and remember to tuck it away after the catch to avoid fumbling.

Rushing the Quarterback – Some flag football teams make the mistake of using leftover players to rush the quarterback. Instead, you should utilize your most athletic players to generate a consistent rush against the offense. This will disrupt their timing and prevent them from scanning the field for too long.

Play Action Pass – With the play action pass, the quarterback pretends to hand the ball off, but he then drops back and makes a pass. This will often distract the defensive backs for a second, allowing the receivers to get a bit of separation. In most cases, it’s best to set it up by running a few rushing plays.

Ball Four: Football Art Print



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Framed – Mounted

Rotating Players – If your team has lots of players, figuring out a rotation can be a real headache. It’s recommended that you avoid having a team of starters and then another team of back-ups. Instead, try to rotate in players of all skill levels, as this allows everyone to enjoy the game. It’s also pointless to put in a team comprised entirely of your less talented players.

Long Passes – While short passes are an effective way of moving down the field and demoralizing the opponent, long passes are also an excellent option on offense. Often, a series of short passing plays and rushes will cause the defense to be off-guard for the long bomb.

Making Adjustments – While it’s best to plan ahead for a game, your plan needs to remain flexible. What if you’re dealing with a shifty quarterback? Then you’ll need to come up with a way to neutralize him. The same goes for a team that hardly runs the ball or has a dominant defense. Whatever the opponent’s strength, be sure and try to find a way to counter it.

Man-to-Man Defense – In this defensive scheme, each defensive player is responsible by covering on opposing player. When playing this type of defense, it’s important to leave some cushion between yourself and the receiver. Otherwise, you run the risk of the receiver getting behind you for a big gain.

Using the Lateral – In most leagues, the ball is whistled dead when it touches the ground. For this reason, I would encourage teams to use the lateral pitch as much as possible. Right before a player has his flag pulled, he can pitch the ball back to a teammate. If the pitch falls to the ground (a fumble in regular football), the play will simply be over. Do not try this very often if a ball on the ground is still considered a “live ball.”

Badminton Tips 4: Badminton Clears

Badminton Clears are the most common and important of all badminton strokes that can be played overhead or underarm. These shots can be played both on the forehand and backhand sides.


Overhead Clear

Use the clear to move your opponent to the backcourt. It will create space in the frontcourt for you to exploit.



It will also give you more time to go back to your base. The optimum hitting zone is located somewhere above the central area of your racket.



You can play two types of Badminton Clears, Attacking Clear and Defensive Clear.

Attacking clear has a trajectory that runs almost parallel to the ground. The shuttle travels flat and fast towards your opponents back court. These badminton shots allow less time to your opponent to get behind the shuttle, potentially causing weak returns. The shuttle is hit square with your racket face.

Defensive Clear has a high and deep trajectory. These badminton shots give you more time to return to your base and prepare for the next shot. The shuttle is hit with your racket face leaning slightly backwards.

Forehand Overhead Clear

The forehand overhead badminton clear is similar to the action of throwing a ball. If you can throw a ball well, you shouldn’t have problem playing this stroke. You can always practice throwing with a shuttle first before stepping on to the court.



Here are some pointers for playing a forehand overhead clear.



- Adopt the forehand grip.

- Turn your body and stand sideways to the net with your non-racket shoulder facing the net.

- Shift your weight on to your rear foot.

- Bend your elbow and lock your wrist preparing to swing forward.

- Raise your non-racket hand and point at the shuttle to improve timing and balance.

- Contact the shuttle as high as possible and in front of your body using a strong throwing action as if you are going to throw your racket high and forward through the air.

- Straighten your elbow as you hit the shuttle.

- Let your wrist unlock with a whip action as you hit the shuttle.

- Follow through with your racket and shift your weight from your rear foot to your front foot.

- Move back to your base position.



Backhand Overhead Clear

It is not easy to play a backhand overhead clear. Even experienced players have problem with this badminton stroke. You shall always try to play an ‘around the head’ forehand clear whenever possible.



However, it is important that you know how to play the backhand overhead clear. There are times when you just can’t play the shuttle with your forehand.



Here are some pointers for playing a backhand overhead clear.



- Adopt the backhand grip.

- Turn your body so that your back is facing the net.

- Lead and shift your weight to your racket foot.

- Lift your arm from the shoulder with the forearm parallel to the floor.

- Hold the racket across your body with the racket head pointing down.

- Keep the racket arm and elbow close into your body.

- Hit the shuttle at a high point of contact.

- Flick your wrist powerfully towards the shuttle.

- A follow through is not needed.

- Push your body back to your base position.



Around the Head Clear

This is actually a forehand overhead badminton clear played at the non-racket side of your body. Try to use it whenever play permits as a forehand stroke is always better and more accurate than a backhand.



The techniques for hitting these badminton clears are about the same as the forehand overhead clears with only some minor adjustments.



Here are some pointers for playing a forehand around the head clear.



- Stand squarely to the net.

- Bend your upper body sideways to your non-racket side as your arms come through.

- Shift your weight to your non-racket leg.

- Bend your elbow and bring the racket behind your head.

- As you swing forward, your forearm will brush the top of your head before straightening.

- Transfer your body weight rapidly as your non-racket leg pushes your body back to your base position.



An important thing to note here is that whether you are playing a badminton clear, a drop shot or a smash, your wrist plays a key part in creating deception.



The basic preparations for these badminton shots are the same, only the angle of the racket face, the speed of the racket head and the point of impact is different. Keep your opponent guessing.



Underarm Clear

The underarm clear is usually played from the front court area to your opponent’s back court. Whether to play it high and deep or a flatter, cross court clear will depend on the situation at that time and your opponent’s positioning on court.



In any case, try to reach the shuttle as early as possible so that you can have various shot options. Your wrist action is the crucial element in creating a deception for your shots.



Here are some pointers for the underarm clear.



- Adopt the forehand grip for a forehand underarm clear or the backhand grip for a backhand underarm clear.

- Extend and put your racket up when you go for the shot.

- The point of impact shall be well out in front of you and as high as possible with your racket leg leading in a lunge position.

- Swing your racket upwards as the shuttle drops in the hitting area.

- Unlock your wrist as you contact the shuttle, producing a whip action.

- Follow through with your racket in the direction of the shuttle’s trajectory.

- Push with both legs and move back to your base position.

Advanced Badminton Techniques .

"Whether you're a beginner or the best, your bible to better badminton"



By Butch Oreta and Vip Malixi






Unlike in golf and tennis when being a teaching professional can be a lucrative profession, for badminton, the sport is not yet popular enough to support and sustain dedicated teachers of the sport. This situation is reflected in the currently available badminton instructional books: most are written by former players instead of teaching professionals thus they merely skim the surface of the sport, not really going in-depth into how best to explain and teach the proper techniques.






Luckily through the confluence of factors, this is about to change. Butch Oreta, a veteran of the game and a true teaching professional (for aside from playing the game, Butch has researched and studied the various techniques of elite players and has never stopped looking for ways to best teach the sport) and Vip Malixi, a writer, badminton enthusiast, illustrator and DTP expert (computer desktop publishing) have joined forces to come up with THE badminton instructional book. Butch Oreta's and Vip Malixi's "Advanced Badminton Techniques", using step-by-step photos, diagrams and illustrations with easy-to-read-and-understand descriptions, reveal the strokes, techniques and tactics of elite players. This is groundbreaking: a book finally gives regular club players and novices access to the actual techniques used by varsity, national and even international players. This can only lead to a raising of the skill level of the game, the increased popularity of the sport, and more enjoyment by its participants.






Just like the best golf and tennis instructional manuals, this book is intuitive, evenly-paced. The text are short and very readable, yet complete and clear. There are loads of pictures to explain everything. It covers power: teaching you how to have more power in all your strokes: smashes, drives, serves, etc. It teaches control: how to make those deft drops and net shots. It teaches tactics: court rotation in doubles, what to do to overcome the stresses and anxieties of crucial points and remain cool and composed, sports psychology tactics, etc. It teaches the secret stamina techniques employed by world-class players so that you're almost never tired no matter how many smashes you pound throughout the match. It explains in step-by-step fashion how to do the most-requested techniques: jump smash, tumbling net drop, high backhand, late shots, etc. It mentions the common faults and how to avoid them and it gives great tips throughout the book.

Extras!: "Badminton Psychological Tactics", "Deception at the Net (net drop, crosscourt net drop, drive to the back)", "FAQ and Solutions (better defense, body english, scramble, etc.)", "Power and Length: Pushing Range & Swing Arc"


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$27.00 (+$3.50 Xoom.com/Paypal charge)






Edition: Digital; purchase of the digital version of Advanced Badminton Techniques by Butch Oreta and Vip Malixi which is password-protected, copy disabled receive the full-color Acrobat PDF version of the book which includes the latest updates, plus the articles, "Badminton Psychological Tactics", "Deception at the Net (net drop, crosscourt net drop, drive to the back)", "FAQ and Solutions (better defense, body english, scramble, etc.)", "Power and Length: Pushing Range & Swing Arc", and access to the book's badminton videos.