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India top world rankings

Author: Sir David Smith
Date: 07/12/2009
Cricket betting

India are officially the best side in the world after taking over at the top of the ICC World Test rankings.

An innings victory in the third Test against Sri Lanka in Mumbai saw MS Dhoni's men take top spot, as they clinched a 2-0 series win and overhauled South Africa in the standings.

It is the first time that India have held the top spot, with Dhoni's men having swept aside Sri Lanka by an innings in both Mumbai and in Kanpur in the second Test of a three-match series.

England veteran David Beckham has refused to take a place at next summer's World Cup finals for granted, having fought his way back into the national team set-up under head coach Fabio Capello.

The 34-year-old midfielder is set to join AC Milan on loan from LA Galaxy to ensure his selection, but the 115-times capped schemer knows that he has to impress in the coming months at the San Siro.

Beckham commented: "I do not fear being axed for the World Cup, nothing is guaranteed.

"Being picked for next summer is not something I take for granted."

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Manchester United's assistant manager Mike Phelan has admitted that his club are one of a growing number taking a look at Wolfsburg striker Edin Dzeko.

The 23-year-old Bosnia international frontman is expected to leave the German champions next summer, with AC Milan his preferred destination.

However, Phelan has confirmed that United are keen to tempt Dzeko to try his luck at Old Trafford.

He told reporters: "I'm sure there are a number of teams looking at him. Are we one on them? We are looking at talent all of the time and we are in there with the rest of them.

"He appeals because he is a tall, skilful boy and in some ways he is an ideal player for the English league. He has stature, his feet are good and he is producing some good performances."

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has confirmed that the club have opened talks over a new contract with Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano.

The 25-year-old South American was heavily linked with a move to Barcelona last summer, but has stayed put to continue as a key figure in the Reds' midfield engine room.

Benitez commented: "We were talking with him and his agent a month ago about our idea and his idea. Everyone can see he's doing really well and has come back to his best.

"We have plenty of time, but we are happy with him and he is happier now too.

"He has two more years on his contract, we were talking before and we will sit down sooner rather than later and talk about the future."

In tennis, Spain successfully defended their Davis Cup title after taking an unassailable 3-0 lead over the Czech Republic on day two of the final in Barcelona.

Feliciano Lopez and Fernando Verdasco's 7-6, 7-5, 6-2 win over Radek Stepanek and Tomas Berdych in Saturday's doubles ensured that the defending champions retained their crown.

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