ICL omits Lara, Inzy

NEW DELHI: Former Test captains Brian Lara and Inzamam-ul Haq were conspicuous omissions as India’s rebel Twenty20 league unveiled its six teams for the inaugural event on Wednesday. Lara and Inzamam were touted as the star attractions of the multi-million-dollar Indian Cricket League (ICL). But neither figured in the six teams that will face-off in the league to be played in Panchkula from November 30. ICL officials were not available to comment why the two players did not feature in the list that has 24 international players. — AFP

Doherty dies at 72

MANCHESTER: Former “Busby Babe” John Doherty, who won the English league title with Manchester United in 1956, has died. He was 72. Manchester United announced Doherty’s death on Wednesday, but did not give any further details. Doherty only made 26 appearances and scored seven goals for Manchester United before having to retire at age 23 because of a chronic knee injury. The 1956 title was the first for the so-called “Busby Babes,” a group of young players who progressed from the youth team into the first team under manager Matt Busby. — AP

Hargreaves ruled out

LONDON: Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves has been ruled out of England’s friendly against Austria on Friday. Hargreaves is being rested in the hope he recovers from tendinitis in time for England’s European Championship qualifier against Croatia on November 21. The Football Association said that Hargreaves will return to Manchester for treatment. Hargreaves played in United’s 2-0 win over Blackburn in the Premier League on Sunday. England will fail to qualify for Euro 2008 if Russia defeats Israel in a qualifier and Croatia avoids a loss against Macedonia on Saturday when England is idle. — AP