Is BCCI above the law? asks Azad

New Delhi: Training his guns at the BCCI for handing out clean chits in the IPL spot-fixing and betting scandal, cricketer-turned-politician Kirti Azad today asked if the Indian Cricket Board considers itself above the law.

Azad`s comments came after the BCCI`s two-member probe panel cleared Chennai Super Kings Team Principle Gurunath Meiyappan, who is the son-in-law of Board President N Srinivasan, Rajasthan Royals franchise and its co-owner Raj Kundra in the scam that rocked the IPL this year.

"I don`t blame (BCCI acting chief) Jagmohan Dalmiya or Srinivasan for this. The politicians are hell bent on making BCCI the next Indian Olympic Association. We have seen what happened to IOA due to political interference and now the same is happening with BCCI," Azad told `PTI-Bhasha`.

"Mumbai police has said that the investigation is still on. Delhi police is still investigating and the BCCI panel has given them a clean chit. Is BCCI above the law and constitution of the country?" he asked.

Azad felt the BCCI should be immediately brought under the ambit of the Right To Information act.

"There is no other alternative. The government has to intervene and bring BCCI under the RTI. When former sports minister Ajay Maken brought the sports bill, the cabinet ministers, involved with BCCI, opposed that. If BCCI claims that they do auditing of their account, then why do they hesitate to come under RTI?" Azad queried.

"It is time to make BCCI functioning more transparent and it can be done through RTI," he said.

He also said that it is wrong to penalise players and give clean chits to officials.

"Whenever something happens, players get penalised and officials walk free. It`s a pity because despite all the controversies cricket is still the most popular game in the country due to the hard work and excellent performance of players," he said.

PTI

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James Taylor ready to grab England return chance in third Ashes Test

London: James Taylor, the batsman who could replace Kevin Pietersen in the England side to face Australia in the third Ashes Test at Old Trafford has said that he believes he is in a much stronger position to make most of the opportunity than he was when making his debut against South Africa last year.

According to The Guardian, the 23-year-old Nottinghamshire batsman completed an unbeaten 121 as a guest player for Sussex in their match against the tourists.

The report said that his determination to keep going when "batting ugly", as the professionals sometimes describe it, was a lesson in itself to the Australia batsmen following their collapses at Trent Bridge and Lord`s.

Taylor said that it was definitely a pressure situation and had he not scored any runs in the practice game, everybody would have commented on that.

ANI

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John Isner edges John Anderson in Atlanta Open final

New York: American John Isner saved two match points before beating South Africa`s Kevin Anderson 6-7(3), 7-6(2), 7-6(2) in the final of the Atlanta Open on Sunday to claim his seventh ATP career title.

The towering Isner, who stands six-foot-10 (2.08m), fired down 24 aces in a match dominated by big serving from two of the tallest players in tennis.

Neither player was able to break their opponent`s serve in the slugfest, which lasted almost three hours, with each set decided by tiebreakers.

"I`ve been on the wrong end of a final that close before - maybe not three tie-breakers close, but super close, having match point, having a lot of chances - so it feels good to be on the other end of that," said Isner.

"I never wavered. I believed that even at 0-40 that I could still hold on and was able to come up with the goods."

Anderson, a 6-foot-8 (2.03m) right hander from Johannesburg chasing a third career title, won the first tiebreaker and had 11 chances to break Isner`s serve but failed to convert any of them.

He hit 21 aces and only faced one service break on his own serve and had two match points in the third set but was unable to seize either chance.

"I was holding easily and trying to give myself chances, which I did. Just wasn`t able to capitalise on them. That was the difference today," said Anderson.

"He stays in there. He serves well, he plays well when it matters, and he definitely played two better tie-breaks than me."

Reuters

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Kundra`s presence in CLT20 to be decided after Aug 2: Official

New Delhi: A decision on whether Rajasthan Royals co-owner Raj Kundra will be present at the venue during the Champions League Twenty20 will be taken after the IPL Governing Council formally clears the NRI businessman in the IPL spot-fixing and betting scandal.

"We are very happy to know that Mr Kundra`s name has been cleared of any wrongdoing during the BCCI working committee meeting. The franchise will come out with an official statement once the IPL governing council ratifies the decision of the working committee," a senior Royals official told PTI.

Asked whether the co-owner of the Jaipur-based franchise will be there in the stands to cheer the team during the upcoming Champions League Twenty20, the official said,"A call in this regard will be taken after the IPL governing council meeting on August 2."

"As of now, the BCCI hasn`t made any formal contact with us or issued a notification about clearing Kundra."

Kundra was questioned by the Delhi Police`s Special Cell for allegedly betting during IPL-VI matches. The BCCI, in one of its earlier working committee meetings, suspended Kundra pending inquiry.

However, the franchise official said it was indeed a very challenging time during the business end of the last edition when three Rajasthan Royals players S Sreesanth, Ajit Chandila and Ankeet Chavan were arrested by Delhi Police on charges of spot-fixing.

"It was really a challenging time for all of us at the Rajasthan Royals. But we have always had full faith in judiciary. The management cooperated fully with the police authorities and they also carried their job in a very professional manner.

"Now, in a few weeks` time, the preparations for the Champions League T20 will also start in right earnest."

PTI

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Lewis Hamilton on a high after `miracle` win

Budapest: Lewis Hamilton said it would take a miracle for him to win Sunday`s Hungarian Grand Prix but in the end it looked like more a case of alchemy.

The tyres that had tormented him took him to triumph instead.

"I came here saying and praying that when we put on these tyres that they would come towards us more than away from us and it seems like they`ve done that," he told reporters after his first win for Mercedes.

" For a team that really struggles with tyre degradation today was a walk in the park. I`m really baffled," added the 2008 Formula One world champion.

A sweltering sprint might have been a more accurate description, with track temperatures reaching 50 degrees Celsius and air temperatures hovering around 35, but Hamilton was as cool as anyone out there.

Over the last 20 laps, he said, he was drinking a lot of water and able "to really chill".

"We came here with upgrades and constantly doing work to try and understand these tyres. I think today we bolted them on and they just worked for us. I really was not expecting it," said the Briton.

He described winning for Mercedes, after 21 wins for McLaren, as "a really calming, relaxing feeling".

"The experiences I had at McLaren were some of my greatest but I think this is one of the highlights of my career up to now," he added. "Moving to a new team and a team that was struggling massively last year and to finally get a win with them after the first nine or 10 races is a great feeling."

New tyres

Hungary was the first time Pirelli`s new tyres had been raced after the Italian company made changes following a spate of blowouts that caused havoc at last month`s British Grand Prix at Silverstone.

Hamilton had started that race on pole position, just as he did in Hungary, but his hopes of a home win evaporated in an explosion of flailing rubber.

Sunday may not have made up for that disappointment but the victory, at a circuit where he has now won four times in the last seven years, made up for some of the pain.

It also compensated for Mercedes being barred from a test at Silverstone last week, which all the other teams attended, as punishment for taking part in a `secret` session with Pirelli in Spain in May.

"I think this is probably one of the most important grand prix wins of my career," said Hamilton, addressing the cheering crowd from the podium, after a race that left him fourth in the championship and 48 points behind Red Bull`s Sebastian Vettel.

"When you have a win like this, you get excited and you think anything is possible and obviously today shows that anything is possible but I think it`s still too early for us to say whether or not we can challenge these guys," he said.

"I hope today is the first step in doing so but we`ve got a lot of tough races coming up. I just hope that that`s not the last time my tyres work for me."

Hamilton had been on pole for the last three races but on Saturday he played down any expectations of a win that some had ruled out entirely when he moved from McLaren to Mercedes at the end of last season.

"We`ve got a steep hill to climb with these tyres and if we did win it would be a miracle. I still feel the win is a while off," he had told reporters, describing his pole lap as nothing special and predicting a tough day ahead.

The `miracle` duly happened but Hamilton was also as determined as he has ever been to secure his first win for a team other than McLaren, his team since boyhood.

"I think you could tell I was hungry for it today. I was just going all-out. I needed to get past those people and usually I get stuck in traffic, generally in my races, and today I wasn`t having it. I was going for every move I had," he said.

Mercedes have now won three of the 10 races so far this season and are still very much in the championship challenge.

"If we can be quick here in a race with these track temperatures then I`m very hopeful that we can be competitive everywhere else, so this could be a really good...could be a good turning point for us," said Hamilton.

Reuters

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Luger Keshavan to train with US team ahead of Sochi Games

New Delhi: Shiva Keshavan has always found his path strewn with adversities but it seems the tide is finally turning in his favour as he has has been landed an opportunity to train with the world-class US national luge team in the run-up to his fifth Winter Olympic appearance.

"I`ll be training with the highly advanced US Luge team in the run-up to the (2014) Sochi Games but before that I need to sign an MoU with them. Everything has been finalised as my talks with them are at an advanced stage and we are in the process of finalising the agreement," Keshavan told PTI on his return to the country after spending time in Europe.

"I would be soon travelling to the US to plan out my training programme. The idea is to get enough exposure before setting off to defend my Asian title and compete in the nine World Cups later this year," said the `fastest Indian on ice`.

Keshavan also informed that he was engaged in an active discussion with a leading Indian company, a pioneer in Research and Development (R&D) field, to provide him with advanced scientific training and equipments.

"I can`t reveal you the name of the company as the deal has not been finalised as yet. It will take us 2-3 weeks before making an announcement. All I can tell you is that the company invests a lot in R&D and they would be providing me with hi-tech materials, aero-dynamics, new sled, equipments and scientific training. It`s a technical collaboration which would be of big help to me," said Keshavan, who holds a top speed record of 149.9kmph.

The 31-year-old has identified three key areas to work upon in his bid to become the first Indian to win a medal at the Winter Olympics.

"First is getting the quality equipment and training. Then the initial propulsion, if I can improve upon my initial thrust by 2-3 seconds, it will be great. I am concentrating on start specific training. Third is technique because each track is different and you need to have the knowledge of the track. I am working on these aspects of my game," he said.

All his practice sessions would be organised keeping in mind the 2014 Games and Keshavan hopes to keep his world ranking consistent.

"There is a gap of one second between me and the current Olympic gold medallist, so I need to cut that time to half. My performance is getting better with each passing day. Another target would be to achieve my personal best timing, reach that benchmark first in coming weeks and then breach the previous Olympic record," he said.

"Other targets include retaining my Asian Championship title for the third time, improving my world ranking which is currently at 37 and then one week of training at Sanki Sliding Centre in Sochi probably in the first week of November before the nine World Cups," he added,

Talking about the Olympic qualification criteria, Keshavan said, "First five World Cups are very important for qualifying. Top 40 in the world rankings will qualify for the Olympics. World Cups determine your starting order for the Games. The earlier you start, better the chance of posting a good timing and getting into medal contention."

Keshavan aims to be ready by the time ice training begins in September in Lillehammer, Norway to test new equipments.

The luger from Himachal Pradesh was among the first few international athletes who were invited to test the Sanki track last year.

"It`s a first of its kind track and an engineering marvel. The track has a few peculiar technical features. There are three uphill sections which introduce a new challenge and also act as a safety measure. Gravitational force will play an important role there to get more acceleration," Keshavan said.

Born to an Indian father and Italian mother, not many know that Keshavan had declined an offer to represent the Italian flag more than a decade ago.

Keshavan said on more than one occasion, the thought of quitting the sport crossed his mind due to lack of funds to compete in international events but his passion and determination saw him weather all storms.

PTI

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Mo Farah challenges Bolt to charity race over publicly chosen distance

London: Double Olympic champion Mo Farah has confirmed he has no intention of quitting the track, and has challenged Usain Bolt to a charity showdown over public`s choice of distance.

Farah, who reeled off a runaway 3,000 metres victory at the Sainsbury`s Anniversary Games on Saturday, will make his marathon debut in London next April and after taking care of business, Farah also challenged the world`s fastest man Usain Bolt to a hybrid charity race over an intermediate distance between 600m and 800m.

However, the report said that following an ambiguous TV clip which suggested he would turn his attention solely to the road following next month`s world championships in Moscow, Farah rushed to put the record straight yesterday.

FlyMo said that he would be back on the track and hopefully in 2014 stepping up to a marathon, adding that he would tell the world when he was done with the track and recently it had been misunderstood.

Farah and Bolt performed a memorable double act at London 2012, mimicking each other`s golden archer and Mobot celebrations, the report added.

ANI

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Monty Panesar hoping to have crack at Aussies in Old Trafford Test

Sydney: Old Trafford specialist Monty Panesar is hoping that the Manchester grounds men are raking the wicket because he feels Australia`s batsmen are vulnerable against the spinning ball, as he took an impressive 3-70 for Sussex in the three-day Australian tour match.

Panesar has been called into England`s 14-man squad for the third Test starting on Thursday and having watched the carnage his slow-bowling colleague Graeme Swann was able to cause in the second Test at Lord`s, he is eager for another shot at Australia this week, imploring England to play the both of them.

The spinner said that the Australian team was a very competitive team and they were going to come back hard, but with spin there was an opportunity.

Panesar`s record at Old Trafford speaks for itself and he has taken 25 wickets in three Tests at the ground, at an average of 16, including a 10-wicket collection for the match against West Indies in 2007 and 6-37 against New Zealand a year a later, the report said.

ANI

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Moyes confident of Man U win even if `most wanted` don`t materialize

London: Man U boss David Moyes is confident of his title winning squad even if he does not secure his favourable transfer targets.

Moyes who has been pitching in for Barcelona`s Cesc Fabregas will be ready with a third bid worth 35 million pounds but will be comfortable with the talent he has in the club for the new campaign.

Moyes said that the club has a very good squad and he is confident of the team even without additions.

A report said that Moyes` battle will be to retain striker Wayne Rooney for whom Jose Mourinho is ready to spend upto 30 million pounds along with his own acquisition of Fabregas being turned down by Barca twice.

ANI

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Natural Homemade Beauty Tips For Oily Skin Face

Beauty Tips For Oily Skin Face
As I have discussed in my previous posts that skin is the outer most layer of your body which protects your inner body structure from the environmental pollution and bacteria. Skin structure depends upon the geographical location and the climate of that specific place. People have different skin types regarding their skin issues. Mostly women have skin issues and they apply different kinds of beauty products that also can make the problem worse. The main issue is that women with skin issues do experiments with their skin by consulting a beautician, a doctor and applying different skin care products without judging their skin type.
Mostly women face these kinds of problems with their skin being oily and dry in different seasons. Some have these issues throughout a specific age. To overcome these problems they use different methods, some of which work and some don’t. Because the treatments they use to fix their skin problems does not accept their skin very quickly. Women with oily skin feel a little greasy every time they take a shower and their makeup gets off very quickly and they have to apply it many times a day. Women with oily skins also catch dirt and dust very quickly. This leads to blocked pores which cause acne and other skin problems like blackheads and dark circles.
In this article I will cover some very basics of how to maintain your skin and use these tips for oily skin to help prevent greasy nature of your skin. I will also discuss that how you can compare products with your skin in order to make your skin and the product friendly. Here are some very top and useful beauty tips for oily skin that you can use to make your skin soft and oil free.

The best and the very basic way to get rid of your oily skin is cleansing your face 3 times a day. Cleansing whips the dirt off your skin and protects your skin from clog pores, acne etc.Wash your face as much as you can because excessive use of soap will make your skin dry, decreasing the oily nature.Use scrubs at least after 2 days because scrubbing can give your face a mat look and can and can decrease the oil gesture.Apply masks on your face weekly. This can help you make your face oil free and healthy because it removes almost all the dirt and bacteria that harm your precious skin.Natural homemade beauty tips can also help you make your skin oil free. Slice an apple into pieces, blend it with some honey and apply it on your face and then after 20 minutes remove it with the help of Luke warm water. Due to exposure in the polluted environment with smoke dirt and dust our skin gets many problems making it lifeless. So cleansing your skin daily can help you make it oil free and you can get rid of the shine that irritates you.Vitamin C can help you make your skin dirt free and you can have vitamin c in fruits. Eat fruits every day because natural cures can resolve body issues.Keep your sunscreen with you. Because exposure to sun can damage your skin in no time making it worse to handle. When you wake up in the morning take a tissue paper and rub it on your face slowly. If the tissue paper wet and has dirt on it that means you have oily skin.Another method to prevent oily skin is that, take almond oil and mix it with few drops of lemon and apply it on your face. Be patient and keep doing this for a month daily. You will get good results.

Note: In this post I have try to cover some homemade tips and tricks of oily skin for boys, girls and women. If you think that there is something that you need to know more of this article you can comment in the comment box or you can directly contact me through contact us page of Beauty Tips.

Tags beauty tips for oily skin beauty tips for oily skin for boys beauty tips for oily skin for girls beauty tips for oily skin for men beauty tips for oily skin for women homemade beuaty tips for oily skin natural beauty tips for oily skin

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Niki Lauda hails Hamilton`s Hungarian GP winning drive as `best ever`

London: F1 legend and Mercedes overlord Niki Lauda has hailed Lewis Hamilton`s drive during the Hungarian GP win as the best he had ever seen, adding that the racer had driven sensationally.

Hamilton`s fourth win at the Hungaroring takes him into history alongside Michael Schumacher as the most successful driver to race here.

For the first time this year, Hamilton made up ground on Vettel in the title chase and his hopes for the crown are promising, although he would not admit it, a report said.

However, Hamilton insisted it would not make up for his British Grand Prix heartbreak when a tyre blew while leading, the report added.

ANI

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Pakistan complete Windies T20 sweep

Kingstown: Pakistan held off a desperate late surge by the West Indies to take the second and final Twenty20 international by 11 runs at the Arnos Vale Stadium in St Vincent on Sunday.

In restricting the hosts to 124 for nine in reply to their total of 135 for seven, the tourists took the series 2-0 and moved up to second in the international rankings behind Sri Lanka.

West Indies, the world T20 champions, dropped to fourth in what was yet another setback following hard on the heels of the 3-1 loss to the Pakistanis in the preceding one-day international series.

"It was a tough tour and credit must be given to everyone associated with the squad for the success that we have enjoyed here," said a delighted Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez, who also played a key role with the ball in dismissing the dangerous but out-of-form Chris Gayle cheaply for the second time in two days.

"When we saw the pitch, we knew, with our four spinners, that any total of 135-140 would have given us a chance, and so it worked out."

An unbeaten 46 by man of the match Umar Akmal and 44 from opening batsman Ahmed Shehzad paced Pakistan to a total that was always going to be challenging on a slow, turning surface ideally suited to the sub-continental team.

Spinners Sunil Narine and Samuel Badree shared five wickets for the West Indies in what would prove to be an ominous precursor of the task the home side had to face in the quest to get a share of the honours.

After looking dead and buried at 17 for four though, the Caribbean side fought back through the middle of their innings thanks to a battling top score of 35 from Dwayne Bravo and an aggressive 28 from Sunil Narine.

However it was Kieron Pollard who brought the match back to life in a pivotal 17th over bowled by Zulfiqar Babar that featured spectacular hitting before the left-arm spinner effectively decided the fate of the match with two wickets in two balls.

Pollard launched two mighty sixes and drilled two fours off the first four deliveries, further enlivening an already boisterous crowd as they sensed the possibility of a miraculous victory.

But Zulfiqar held his nerve and the big-hitter`s attack could not be sustained.

He sliced a catch to deep cover and off the next delivery, Bravo also swung hopefully to be snared at wide long-off.

After his sensational debut in the first match on Saturday when he took three wickets and then hit a six to win the match off the final ball, Zulfiqar was the deserving man of the series as he also contributed useful scores of 14 and 11, both unbeaten, in the two matches.

Any flickering hope that the West Indies had of getting to the target was effectively extinguished in the next over, although there was still more drama.

Captain Darren Sammy heaved at Saeed Ajmal and skied a straightforward catch that was floored in a collision between the bowler and the advancing wicketkeeper Akmal.

His luck ran out three balls later when attempting again to clear the boundary and Shahid Afridi took the catch at long-off.

"When Asian teams come to the Caribbean, maybe we shouldn`t be giving them these types of wickets," said a disappointed Sammy in reflecting on the pitches not only for the T20s but also for the preceding ODIs in Guyana and St Lucia.

"It suited them more than it helped us. At the end of the day though, they played the better cricket."

Tino Best blasted a couple of sixes that still kept the West Indian faithful hoping against hope.

But left-arm seamer Sohail Tanvir, whose early burst accounted for Johnson Charles and Marlon Samuels to catches at the wicket, ensured that Pakistan did not completely fall apart in the final over of the match.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said they were "extremely concerned" over British media reports that their ODI series with the West Indies was being investigated for alleged suspicious betting patterns.

The Mail on Sunday raised the allegations over claims of wrongdoing in the series which Pakistan won 3-1 with one game tied.

"The PCB is obviously extremely concerned at the recent allegations of fixing reported in the media with regard to recently concluded ODI series between Pakistan and West Indies," an official told cricinfo.com

"The PCB maintains zero tolerance towards corruption in the game but investigations in this matter falls within the purview of the ICC`s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit.

"The PCB is in contact with the ICC on this issue and understands that the ICC will be issuing a media release soon."

AFP

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Pakistan terms fixing claims "outrageous"

Karachi: Pakistan`s cricket chief on Monday termed fixing allegations over the team`s one-day series against the West Indies as "outrageous" adding his board had insisted on a full investigation by the International Cricket Council (ICC).

British newspaper The Mail on Sunday had reported the series was under investigation by the Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) of world cricket`s governing body with experts identifying suspicious betting patterns.

"Concerns have been raised, in particular, around the tied third match of the series played in St Lucia a week ago on Friday, as well as the final game, which resulted in a last-ball win for Pakistan on Thursday," the paper reported.

The West Indies, chasing 230, tied the third match after needing 24 in the last two overs with the last pair of Kemar Roach and Jason Holder at the crease.

The probe will also look at betting patterns in the final game, in which West Indies scored just one run from the first 18 balls, according to the report.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) interim chairman Najam Sethi hit out at the allegations.

"These are outrageous claims and we have been in touch with the ICC and insist on investigation," Sethi said in an interview.

"I can`t talk much on this but we did contact the team manager and he told us that a couple of days ago the newspaper people were phoning people to get the information," said Sethi.

"The manager confirmed that the ICC`s ACSU team was there in the Caribbean. How much truth is there in this, only time will tell but at the moment this is not more than a story by The Mail."

A board spokesman added: "The PCB is obviously extremely concerned at the allegations of fixing reported in the media with regard to recently concluded one-day series between Pakistan and West Indies."

Pakistan won the one-day series 3-1 before clinching the two-match Twenty20 series 2-0 on Sunday.

Pakistan has been badly hit by match-fixing scandals in the past with three of its top players -- Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Aamer -- serving bans in a spot-fixing case that surfaced on team`s tour of England in 2010.

Pakistan had to ban former captain Salim Malik and paceman Ata-ur Rehman in 2000 after a two-year long judicial inquiry conducted by Lahore high court judge Malik Mohammad Qayyum.

The inquiry also fined six other players, including former captains Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and Inzamam-ul Haq.

The bans came after Australian trio of Shane Warne, Tim May and Mark Waugh alleged Malik offered them bribes to under-perform on the team`s tour to Pakistan in 1994.

An ICC spokesman told AFP it does not comment on any ACSU activities.

Sethi said PCB has taken noted quotes from an England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) official in the newspaper report.

ECB`s information manager Chris Watts told The Mail the events in the Pakistan-West Indies series warrants investigation.

"If I was presented with this level of information, I would want this series investigated," Watts, who is responsible for anti-corruption in domestic cricket in England, was quoted in the report. "There are some classic signs (of wrong doing)."

"We have written (protested) to the ICC as to how an ECB official gave comments on the report and what right he had to say that," Sethi protested.

AFP

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Pope`s Brazil visit raises red flags for World Cup, Olympics

Rio de Janeiro: A string of organizational flaws during the visit of Pope Francis to Brazil that put him at risk and stranded thousands of visiting faithful has deepened concern about the country`s ability to host the upcoming World Cup and Olympic Games.

Even Rio de Janeiro`s mayor gave himself a failing grade in organizing World Youth Day, a biennial gathering of young Catholics that on Sunday drew some 3 million people to a seaside mass delivered by the pope on Copacabana beach.

The city, said Eduardo Paes in a radio interview on Friday, "scored closer to zero than ten."

The big events in Brazil, including next year`s World Cup soccer tournament and the 2016 Olympic Games, are supposed to showcase a decade of economic growth in Latin America`s largest country and justify the first-world airs put on by many of its leaders.
But slowing growth in the last two years and disgust with corruption, rising prices and the sad state of public services are leading many Brazilians to see little more than pretence behind the extravaganzas.

Last month, protesters staged massive demonstrations across Brazil during the Confederations Cup, a soccer competition seen as a trial run for the World Cup. Anger focused on the fact that billions of dollars was being spent on sporting events rather than on schools, hospitals and public transport.

Even as Brazilians gave Francis a rapturous reception, they were taken aback by the problems that emerged during his visit and the youth summit, an event which had been planned for two years. Catholic faithful who came from across the world faced long lines, crowded buses, faulty trains and disorganization.

Added strain

"Only the pope can save this," ran the headline at the top of O Globo, Rio`s biggest newspaper, on Saturday.

Francis had gracefully brushed off the problems. They included a security scare early in his stay, transport delays that stopped thousands from getting to some appearances and the last-minute decision to move the youth conference`s climax to Copacabana from a flood-prone field that had been turned into a bog by heavy rain.

Security and transportation experts said the problems stemmed from the strain added to bureaucracies, infrastructure, and public services that are buckling even at the best of times.

Heavy traffic and bad weather routinely cause gridlock in Rio, a city that depends on tunnels and bridges to connect sprawling communities scattered between mountains, marshes and beaches.

The chaos surrounding the Catholic youth gathering prompted serious questions about whether authorities will be able to handle alcohol-fuelled soccer fans at the World Cup or the logistical challenge of moving the throngs of athletes and fans for Olympic competitions.

"There is never a way to control absolutely everything when you get that many people together," said Christopher Gaffney, a professor of urbanism at Rio`s Fluminense Federal University, who has studied the organization of major events elsewhere. "The focus has to be on minimizing the chances that things go wrong."

During the pope`s visit to Rio, authorities sought to ease the strain by declaring public holidays and cordoning off huge sections of the city, lessening traffic for anything other than pope-related activities.

The holidays, also planned during the big upcoming sports events, have been criticized by some who accuse the city of shutting down much of the local economy for the benefit of the handful of interests involved in the events.

Plenty of problems

Even with holidays, plenty went wrong during the last week.

On Monday, as Francis travelled into the city center from the airport, his driver turned into an unprotected lane along a major avenue, where adoring crowds surrounded his vehicle and reached in through the window to touch him.

Though the pope himself appeared to enjoy it, staff and security were horrified, perhaps recalling the shooting of Pope John Paul as he rode in his open vehicle in St Peter`s Square in the Vatican in 1981.

On Tuesday, a malfunction in the Rio metro left some subway stations out of service for more than two hours. The shutdown caused many visitors to miss an inaugural mass.

In midweek, as rains pounded Guaratiba, the distant suburb where a giant altar had been erected in a muddy pasture, Mayor Paes said there were no plans to change the venue. On Thursday organizers changed course, recognizing that the mud and rain could cause health problems and even accidents for the legions that would have to travel there.

However prudent the decision, it disrupted the plans of hundreds of thousands of people. Critics said it could have been avoided if organizers had picked a more suitable location to begin with. Locals who had invested heavily in concessions for the hordes of visiting worshippers were left in the lurch.

Officials in Rio had helped sell the city for big events by pointing to a long history of the annual Carnival and New Year`s celebrations, which both attract more than a million revellers to its streets. Local authorities now acknowledge they face a learning curve in staging the international gatherings.

"We have had two big events in a row and we have learned from both," said Jose Monteiro, head of the state`s office for security at large events. Looking ahead toward the World Cup and Olympics, he promised, "we are doing our homework."

Ian Nanke, an Australian who attended World Youth Day in Sydney in 2008, had struggled to find a place to sleep on Saturday on Copacabana. Back home, he recalled, pilgrims were guided toward specific areas and transport was more efficient.

"It`s hard to get there on time," he said. "Call it organized chaos."

Reuters

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Problem is mental toughness: Brendan Taylor

Harare: Livid after conceding a series-deciding lead to India, Zimbabwe cricket captain Brendan Taylor said his team has exhibited a distinct lack of mental toughness in the ongoing ODIs.

Zimbabwe are winless in the five-match series so far, losing the first three ODIs without giving much of a headache to the visitors.

"I think (the problem is) mental toughness. I don`t think we`re mentally sharp enough. We`re just not making the precise decisions at the right time and not putting a real price on our wickets. Too many soft dismissals," Taylor said.

"The most difficult one for me was the second game when we had an opportunity to win that game, and we dropped Dhawan and we dropped plenty of chances and allowed them to get to 290.

"It would have been a different story if we`d caught our catches and probably chased 230-240, we would have gone about our chase a lot differently. It`s very frustrating to see, knowing our batting ability and not getting the runs that we know we can get," he elaborated.

Taylor said dealing with Indian bowlers might be tough but not impossible and a bit of patience was all that his batsmen needed to have.

"We all know in the mornings it`s a little tricky (to bat) but technically we haven`t been good enough. The Indian bowlers, they just keep it nice and simple," he explained.

"They don`t give you too much to hit, but if we can get through that initial period and keep wickets in hand there`s no reason why we can`t catch up and post a decent total," he said.

Taylor, however, insisted that all was still not lost and the home team can reclaim some pride by winning the remaining two matches in Bulawayo.

"There`s always pride (to play for). We use that word a lot, because it`s a privilege to represent your country. Just to be playing against the best team in the world, that`s an honour in itself," he said.

After their third loss on the trot on Sunday, Taylor said he could understand the fans` disappointment with the team.

"It hurts," Taylor conceded.

"It does hurt because they are passionate and they want us to do well, and today it was a bit disheartening to play the way we have played.

"But fortunately there`s more cricket coming up and we haven`t played our best cricket here but hopefully we can give the people of Bulawayo something to smile about," he said.

Talking about the Bulawayo leg of the series, Taylor said he expects the conditions to be a lot more easy for his batsmen there.

"Bulawayo is a bit more friendly in the morning to the batters, though there was a bit there against Bangladesh not too long ago so each side may have to be up against the ball nipping around a little bit," Taylor said.

"But that generally burns off pretty quickly and then it gets really good to bat on."

PTI

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Ray Price retires from international cricket

Harare: Zimbabwean left-arm spinner Ray Price, part of the team for the ongoing ODIs against India, has decided to call it quits from international cricket in the middle of the five-match series after failing to get a single game so far.

The 37-year-old will not travel with the team for the remaining two ODIs of the series, which Zimbabwe has already conceded 0-3 to India.

"I was going to wait until my contract expired to call it a day but, yes, I`ve decided to retire from international cricket," Price said.

"I won`t be going with the guys to Bulawayo. I`m retired."

Price was not originally included in the side for the series but coach Andy Waller said he remained an integral part of the side. He was expected to be given at least one game before calling time.

Price finishes his ODI career with 100 wickets in 102 matches along with the 80 scalps in 22 Tests. His Twenty20 wicket-count stood at 13 in 16 matches.

"Pricey`s called it a day," Zimbabwe captain Brendan Taylor said.

"If he was going to play it was going to be here in Harare. We`re going to miss his experience, but in saying that it does give our young spinners who are coming through a great opportunity," he added.

Price, who made his debut at 23, went into exile for three and a half starting 2003 when he aligned with the then skipper Heath Streak in protesting against the alleged racial discrimination in the national team.

Price`s most recent success came in the 2011 World Cup in India where he was leading bowler for Zimbabwe with nine wickets at 18.77.

His last match for Zimbabwe was the Bridgetown Test against West Indies in March this year.

"He`s a hell of a competitor. He`s a guy that plays with his heart on his sleeve. He leaves nothing out on the field, he`ll give you everything and he`s a real team man. Unfortunately age is not on his side anymore, and he`s moving on with his family," Taylor said.

"We`ll miss him, but I`m sure he`ll still be in the picture with our young spinners coming through and I`m sure he`ll always be contributing somewhere along the line."

PTI

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Schweinsteiger elected Player of the Year 2013

Berlin: Bayern Munich`s Bastian Schweinsteiger has been named as the Player of the Year 2013 in Germany, according to a poll by the sports magazine "Kicker".

German international midfielder Schweinsteiger scooped the award Player of the Year 2013 as 92 of 527 German sports reporters voted in favour of the midfielder at the 54th edition of the traditional poll here Sunday, reports Xinhua.

Three Bayern players have been voted into the top three, as Schweinsteiger is followed by his teammates French international Franck Ribery with 87 votes, and German international Thomas Mueller with 85 votes.

The top fifteen were dominated by the treble winners, which occupied nine positions followed by Dortmund with five players and Leverkusen with one.

Former Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes rounded off his retirement when he was elected as the best coach as 383 of 571 journalists voted for the 68 year old, ahead of Freiburgs coach Christian Streich with 77 votes and Dortmunds coach Juergen Klopp with 19 votes.

Wolfsburgs Martina Mueller has been named as Germanys women player of the year. In the past season Mueller completed the treble by winning the Bundesliga title, UEFA Champions League and German Cup in one season.

IANS

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Shahid Afridi becomes first cricketer to hit 400 sixes

Johannesburg: Pakistan`s Shahid Afridi has become the first cricketer to hit 400 sixes in an international career on Saturday.

Afridi reached the landmark in the 16th over of Pakistan`s reply to the West Indies` 152 for seven in the first Twenty20 international.

The Pakistan player has been in and out of the national side for quite a while now and has come back to form recently against West Indies.

Chris Gayle, playing for the West Indies, is next on the list having hit 353 sixes in his Test, ODI and T20 career, the report added.

ANI

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Skin Beauty Tips For Quick Fairness Homemade

Skin Fairness Quick Homemade Beauty Tips
Skin is the covering of all the layers of your body, and the thinnest most layers that is why it needs protection from sun rays and other environmental affects that cause different kinds of deadly diseases and allergies that can harm your skin. In order to overcome these issues and for quick fairness of your skin I am going to discuss some very main elements by which you can easily get fair and glowing skin in no time. Quick fairness of skin is demanding because the part of the skin that is visible to the sun gets tan because most of the people work at day time so it gets very important for them to make their skin fair and glow quickly. Things like cucumber, glycerin and rosewater can make your skin glow and fair quickly and without any side effects. Put some pieces of cucumber in the mixer and then add equal quantities of rosewater and glycerin to it and make a paste not to thin nor thick, then apply it to your face before sleeping and wash it in the morning, you will see that your face will start looking fair and glowing with in a day.
There are many tips and tricks by the help of which you can make your face attractive in the public eye. Here are some very useful homemade remedies and some product mixing methods that can help you in your task. Follow these simple and easy steps and see the amazing results in no time in achieving fair skin.
1.    Apply lemon on your face because it makes your face glow and it’s a very good bleaching agent that will help you resolve your fairness issues.
2.    By applying potato juice on your skin can make your face white gradually by using this tip.
3.    Before going to a Party you can apply this simple and quick remedy. Take a banana and peal it, take the pulps and mix it properly and apply to your face and see the amazing affect. Keep the paste at least 10 to 15 minutes on your face.
4.    You can apply papaya juice on your face to make it fair and glowing and it also removes dead cells from your skin and repairs your skin in no time.
5.    Apply lemon juice with cucumber juice, it helps you lighten your skin and it is very useful for oily skins.
6.     Get an egg and take the white part and apply it to your face it will help you make your skin soft and smooth.
7.    Grind the orange peel after drying it. Then mix it with milk and apply the paste on your skin, it helps your skin glow and take out the dirt from the pores.
8.    Zinc and lactic acid are very good for the skin; you can get these things from curd. Apply curd on your face and get fair looking skin with in no time.
9.    Use almond oil and olive to improve your skin color and to remove the dirt from within the face pores and use this home remedy to cure dry skins.
10.    Rose water is one of the best tricks to make your skin look gorgeous and make your skin very soft.
Beauty Tips is really on of the best site giving you many homemade remedies which can change your life and can also safe your pocket. By using these home made remedies you can get fair and glowing skin no time. Products now a days are very expensive and they work really good too, but the affect is a little slow. In order to get quick and glowing fairness without any side affects you should follow these simple and easy steps, which are very affective and work in time so you can relate yourself with other people in the community without any hesitation.
In this article I have focused the area that how can you get quick fairness on your face without any difficulties. If you like this article and you have anything in your mind that you have to add or you think that there is something missing in the article you can comment in the comment box below or directly contact me through our contact us page.

Tags how to get fairness fast quick fair skin home remedies quick fairness tips skin fairness tips for men skin fairness tips for women tips for skin fairness

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Snedeker gifted Canadian crown after Johnson collapse

Oakville (Ontario): American Brandt Snedeker took advantage of a Dustin Johnson meltdown to claim a three-shot victory at the Canadian Open on Sunday.

Snedeker, who began the final round with a wafer-thin one-shot cushion atop the leaderboard, could not be nudged from his perch all day, carding a two-under 70 to collect his sixth career PGA Tour win and second of the season.

"This is a tournament I said early on in my career I wanted to win just because my caddie (Scott Vail) is actually from Canada and it`s his national open," Snedeker told reporters.

"Third oldest tournament on Tour and it`s got some great history to it and now to put my name on that trophy, it means a lot.”

"I obviously didn`t drive the ball the way I wanted to or hit some particular shots but I hung in there really well and made the key putts I needed to and I was able to survive.”

"That`s what today is all about."

While the margin of victory appeared comfortable, Snedeker`s three-shot win over Johnson (70), world number six Matt Kuchar (71), William McGirt (68) and Jason Bohn (71) was not without considerable suspense.

Level with Johnson with three holes to play, Snedeker was suddenly gifted breathing space when Johnson botched the par four 17th, carding a triple-bogey seven to leave the FedExCup champion two clear of his nearest challenger.

After driving his tee shot out of bounds, Johnson was soon in more trouble finding the bunker, where he drove his next shot into the lip and the ball rolled back to a stop at his feet.

"Not too happy but I felt really good with my golf game," said Johnson. "I`m looking forward to the next several weeks.”

"Other than the one drive I hit today on 17, I`m actually driving it really well. That is one thing I have been struggling with is the driver.”

"It`s nothing, nothing to worry about. I`ll go get them next weekend."

Unaware of Johnson`s collapse, Snedeker birdied the 16th and coolly sealed the victory by parring his final two holes for a winning total of 16-under 272.

After a week of near ideal conditions that produced record equalling scores, the Glen Abbey Golf Club showed its teeth in a testing final round as gusty winds whipped across the Jack Nicklaus designed layout.

"After the first hole I realized it (was more difficult)," said Snedeker. "The wind was blowing very hard.

"Every fairway was tough to hit, every green was getting firm. It placed an importance on managing your golf ball.”

"Miss it in the right spot, place importance on getting it up and down, which is all kind of things I`m really strong in."

Nice present

Hunter Mahan, who turned his back on a potential million dollar pay day by walking away from a two-shot lead on Saturday to rush home when his wife went into labour, made it back to Dallas in time for the birth of his first child.

Mahan, who made the trip in a private jet, tweeted, "What a whirlwind of a day, but I`m happy to announce the birth of my daughter Zoe Olivia Mahan born at 3:26 am. Thanks for all the support!"

A smiling Snedeker said later that he would be using some of his $1 million winner`s purse to buy Mahan`s new born daughter a nice present for her perfect timing.

"Zoe will be getting a very nice baby gift from me," said Snedeker. "I can`t thank Kandi enough for going into labour early, otherwise I don`t know if I`d be sitting here if she hadn`t.”

"But that is a way more important thing than a golf tournament.”

"I missed a golf tournament when my first was born and it was the best decision I ever made. I`m sure Hunter would say the same thing."

The search for the first Canadian winner of the national championship since 1954 will continue another year after the home grown contingent fell flat.

Eighteen Canadians teed off on Thursday and just four survived the cut with David Hearn recording the best result firing a final round 73 to finish in a tie for 44th. Former Masters champion Mike Weir was one shot further back on three-under 285 a distance 13 behind the winner.

Reuters

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Spurs chairman silent on Bale Real Madrid transfer rumours

London: Even as Welsh striker Gareth Bale may be trying for a Real Madrid move, his club chairman Daniel Levy is refusing to hold any further talks with the player on the issue after ruling out that he will not be sold this summer regard less of whatever Real may offer.

While the football world was stunned by the lengths to which Real are going to get their man, Levy has already dismissed Madrid`s offer of 51 million pounds plus Angel Di Maria and Fabio Coentrao, totalling 95million pounds.

The Spurs chief is desperate to reach the Champions League and believes they have a much better chance with Bale in the side, a report said.

However, the report added that while Tottenham were claiming dirty tricks by Real last week, Bale`s camp are angry that Levy is reneging on a promise made to their man last year.

ANI

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Strauss says `divided` Aussie side could struggle against England in Old Trafford Test

Sydney: England`s last Ashes-winning captain Andrew Strauss has expressed his surprise over the split up of the Australian squad during the past week and said that the side could only be galvanized if everyone was together.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Strauss, comparing Australia`s predicament to that of the England touring party that lost 5-0 in 2006-07, argued it was a time for Michael Clarke`s men to pull together, saying they could use the Lord`s defeat as a `watershed` moment or `unravel completely`.

Australia may be thinking about bringing Jackson Bird in the bowling line-up along with bringing Nathan Lyon back and David Warner could also find a place in the side.

ANI

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Sunil Chhetri keen to leverage on Westwood`s experience

Bangalore: Indian football skipper Sunil Chhetri, who has signed for newly unveiled Bengaluru Football Club (BFC), is betting on the club`s English manager Ashley Westwood`s leadership qualities for making an impact in the I-league season.

"BFC is not a fancied team but we could make an impact if we put to good use the tips given by Ashley (Westwood). Anything is possible. We are ready to put up a fight," Chhetri told reporters here.

"Ashley was a player himself and has a huge sense of football and wants to work really hard," he added.

Chhetri, the Delhi-born striker, also appears to count on the striking similarities between BFC and European clubs, where diet and fitness are given paramount importance.

"Have you heard of heart-rate monitors in India? This is all normal European stuff," he said.

Chhetri said he has never heard of anything of players paying fines for coming late for the training.

"Every player reports an hour-and-a-half early and have breakfast together," he said.

The 28-year-old said pressure has never taken lead over his performance as he revelled in such circumstances.

"I shut myself off because no matter if I am under pressure I am just going to perform the way I would," he said.

PTI

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Tips and Tricks For Well Shaped and Perfect Eyebrows

Perfect Eyebrows Tips For Men and Women
Eyebrows are the thick area of hairs around the eyes protecting the eyes from the materials falling off the hairs, sweat and other particles. Eyebrows look very beautiful if set properly and can give you a pleasant and charming look. Eyebrows grow very irregularly and need their setting as the hairs on your head do. The pointed shape of eyebrows along the cheeks is because sweat or moisture will drive along the eyes and will not fall on the face or eyes. Eyebrows also help you to express your feelings like anger, laughter and surprise that mean that eyebrows also help you in communication.
Without eyebrows eyes are like head without hair. Eyebrows play a very important role in the beauty of eyes and their looks. Women these days do different styles with their eyebrows and also color them with different shades and cosmetics. Eyebrows give an appealing look to the eye and make them prominent and bulging. People have different shades of eyebrows according to the hair color but in some cases the hair color is different. How to get beautiful eyebrows? is not a big problem now a days and men and women can get perfect, thick, well shaped and stylish eyebrows by acting upon perfect eyebrows tips.
Women are using cosmetics for eyebrows and are treating their beauty issues, spending money and time in parlors for hours and the results are very poor every time they consult a beautician. Beauticians recommend different cosmetics and medicines related to beauty issues which are very expensive and have side effects that can harm your soft skin and cause different diseases. Eyebrows are very sensitive hairs, if not set properly can fall with infections and other beauty issues.
In this article I will try to define some very basic issues and their solutions and some beauty tips for eyebrows that will help you maintain your face beauty and protect your eyebrows from falling early. We all know that perfectly shaped eyebrows can act as a mini facelift. Here are some beauty tips and tricks that will help you in maintaining your eyebrows easily and will protect them from diseases and infections.
1.    Perfect eyebrows can uplift your face and can totally bring unexpected charm to your face. The way eyebrows grow are healthy, over plucking eyebrows can stop the growth at that specific area. If you have thin eyebrows you can use eyebrow growth products like Latisse.
2.    If necessary pluck away any lose straggly hairs with a pair of tweezers. Always pluck from underneath the brow and pull hairs in the direction they are growing using a swift, sharp movement. Pluck one hair at a time, and remember it is better to pluck too few than too many.
3.    Brush eyebrows in shape using a brow brush. Work upward and outward to give the brow more definition and help open up the whole eye area.
4.    With an eyebrow liner, use light, feathery strokes to fill in any gaps in your eyebrows. Extend the eyebrow very slightly at the outer corner and accentuate the natural arch of the brow.
5.    Brush through again with the brow brush the blend in the eyebrow liner, again working upward and downward.
6.    For softer, more natural look, you can use an eye shadow rather than an eyebrow liner. Apply using a small, pointed brush and then brush through. For ordinary Hepburn-style eyebrows, brush brows upward more vigorously and soften with eye shadow.
7.    The best time to pluck your eyebrows is after a bath or shower when the hairs will come out much more easily.
8.    To keep individual hairs in place, spray a little hairspray on to an old, clean mascara wand and comb gently through the eyebrow.
These eyebrows beauty tips can be used for women, girls, and women above age. I have also covered some very unique information about eyebrow makeup tools and makeup precautions.
In this article I have covered some very basic information about eyebrow makeup tips and the tools that you can use to make your eyebrows perfect looking and bulging. For more tips about eyes and eyebrows please keep on visiting beauty tips. If you like this article or you have anything in your mind that you have to add you can comment in the comment box below or you can directly contact me through our contact us page.

Tags eyebrows growth tips eyebrows thickening eyebrows threading eyebrows tips eyebrows tips and tricks well shaped eyebrows

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Tips For Long and Black Hair

Black Hair Care Tips at Home
Black hair is very natural and prone hair, making them relaxed by using chemicals makes them even hard to take care of. Most black hair people face hair breakage and their hair does not grow longer because of using chemicals and artificial methods. This article discusses the very basics of, how you can keep your hair black and healthy, so they can grow as long as you wish them to be. The most important factors that make your hair strong are your emotions, genes, nerves and your immune system. Strong hair is a dream of every woman and we have a plus point of our culture which is so rich that women don’t have to waste their money on expensive products because of these simple and helpful home remedies and daily care. There are a bunch of beauty parlors that provide treatments to the hair but are very expensive, but there is no need to worry because there are many other ways to make you hair black and prevent your hair from falling. I will also discuss some use of good products that will help you make your hair keep their blackness and will make them glow. Fruits are very helpful for every kind of body issues as they are natural and can provide you with very use full vitamins which are not prepared artificially. Here are some very basic routine tips that will help you make your hair strong and healthy and will keep the skin dandruff free. Given below are some hair care tips that will help you to grow and maintain the beauty of black hair naturally at home.
1. Washing black hair every 8 to 10 days is very important, but a daily wash might lose your hairs oil and moisture, making them
Dry and full of dandruff.
2. Even your hair needs to be conditioned daily to bring back its moisture that keeps your hair growing and makes them shiny.
3. Hot combs and hair dryers are used very widely on black hair. These kinds of things can also damage your hair. I am not
Saying that you should not use these things, but using them daily can cause swear damage and breakage of hair.
4. In order to avoid hair damage by using hair dryers you should first use hair wrapping lotion then use your hair dryer.
5. Before tonging your hair use any of the heat protectors you use and they tong your hair, this will both protect and keeps
Your hair from getting damaged.
6. Most experts say that you should properly shampoo your hair after 14 days but after 7 to 10 days is exactly what you will do.
7. Don’t comb your hair with a thin comb because it results in breakage of hair, so use a little thicker comb to comb your hair.
8. You can also use strong black coffee to make your hair black naturally.
9. Don’t use vinegar, it’s a very old method and it really messes up your hair. Use dye instead of vinegar.
10. You can also use henna shampoo and conditioners to make your hair black or to gain more black texture onto your hair.
Homemade remedies for hair like applying egg and amla on your hair are very old methods of making them strong and attractive. By applying these methods you can naturally make your hair look gorgeous. People search different products to find a one that fits their hair, but in this process they totally mess up their hair, instead of doing that they should stick to a product and let it slowly find a way to treat your hair effectively or they should use homemade methods. For more hair tips please keep on visiting beauty tips.
I have discussed some very basics of hair growth and how can you control you falling hair and keep them naturally black. If you like this article or you have anything in your mind that you want to share or you think there is something wrong with the post comment in the comment box below or directly contact me on our contact us page.

Tags black hair black hair growth tips for men black hair tips black hair tips for women homemade tips to get black shiny hair long hair tips

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US beat Panama to win CONCACAF Gold Cup

Los Angeles: The United States capped off a dominant tournament with a 1-0 victory over Panama to capture the CONCACAF Gold Cup on Sunday.

Brek Shea broke through with the only goal of the game in the second half to give the United States their first Gold Cup title since 2007 and make up for back-to-back defeats to Mexico in the last two finals.

While they were thrilled with the result, the Americans hope it is also a springboard to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

"Hopefully this is just the beginning for a lot of us," Landon Donovan told reporters. "We want to be a part of the bigger picture. This is not the end."

The win was the 11th in a row for the United States and came without manager Juergen Klinsmann, who was serving a one-game suspension after being ejected in the semi-finals.

The United States had outscored their opponents 19-4 in their five games leading up to the final but Panama, who eliminated Mexico in the semi-final, proved a serious test for the home side at Soldier Field in Chicago.

The United States had much of the possession but were unable to make it count until the 69th minute when Donovan set up the game-winner for Shea.

Donovan, who was named the tournament`s most outstanding player, has played his way back into Klinsmann`s plans and finished the Gold Cup with five goals, to tie team mate Chris Wondolowski and Panama`s Gabriel Torres.

US midfielder Stuart Holden exited the match with a knee injury during the first half. Holden has a history of knee problems that includes multiple surgeries.

Panama`s Jaime Penedo, who allowed just four goals in five games, was named the tournament`s top goalkeeper for the second time.

"We were all hopeful, we all wanted to win," said Panama coach Julio Dely Valdes. "But we all go away feeling we gave it our all. I said I wanted to walk away from the Gold Cup feeling good, and I do."

Reuters

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Waiting for Test call-up now: Amit Mishra

Harare: It has been three years since he last played a Test match but Indian leg-spinner Amit Mishra is hopeful that his fine show in the ongoing ODI series against Zimbabwe would once again open the doors for him in the five-day format.

Mishra, with nine wickets at 15.11 runs apiece in three matches, has set an Indian record in a bilateral series in Zimbabwe in ODIs. Only once in his career, he has taken 10 or more wickets in a series -- 11 at an average of 18.09 in five matches in West Indies in 2011.

And riding on the current performance, the 30-year-old, who was adjudged man of the match in Sunday’s third ODI which India won to clinch the series, is now hoping to get a Test call-up.

"I`m not in the Test side. I`ll try and do my job in the next two matches, and then it`s up to the selectors. I`ve been waiting a long time for this and I`m doing my best and it`s working for me now," said Mishra, who is on his first ODI assignment in two years.

Since his debut in 2008, Mishra has played 13 Tests, taking 43 wickets at an average of 43.30. Mishra detailed the changes he has brought to his bowling and how the hard work was paying dividends now.

"I`ve done lots of hard work on my googlies and variations and it`s paying off," he said.

"When I came here I was just thinking about the conditions and how to bowl on these kinds of tracks. I`ve spoken a lot with TP (Trevor Penney) and Duncan (Fletcher) who have given me a few tips, which I`ve been working hard on," he added.

Mishra admitted that competition is tough in the Indian team but insisted that it is healthy.

"All the players have done so well in domestic cricket, so they came here with the confidence," he said.

"There`s a lot of healthy competition going on -- everyone wants to do well for India, so it`s working for the Indian team."

PTI

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Williams make their point at last

Budapest: Venezuelan Pastor Maldonado crossed the finish line in 10th place on Sunday to put former Formula One champions Williams out of the misery of a 10-race streak without a point.

Their first scoring finish since the US Grand Prix at Austin, Texas, last November was hardly worthy of celebration for a team that ranks second only to Ferrari in terms of the number of constructors` titles won (nine).

It was, however, a major relief.

Six laps before the end it had looked as if they were destined to fail again, with Maldonado running in 11th place and Finnish team mate Valtteri Bottas suffering his first retirement of the season.

Then the engine on Nico Rosberg`s Mercedes let out a plume of smoke, followed by flames, on lap 65 of 70 and Maldonado inherited the precious point.

"One point, finally. For the team this point is very important, but we need to keep pushing," said the driver, who won for Williams in Spain last year - their first triumph in nearly eight years.

"Today is a small step forward, but it`s not enough. It`s enough to show everyone we have improved, but we need to keep improving, especially in qualifying."

The run of nine races this season without a point marked Williams` worst start to a season in which they have celebrated their 600th grand prix.

Maldonado hoped that a change in the Pirelli tyres, imposed after a sequence of blowouts at last month`s British Grand Prix, had also brought about a change in fortune that would continue for the remaining nine races.

"The potential is there," he said. "Throughout the weekend we were competitive, more than before.

"We`re not the quickest, but we are consistent, which is one of our strongest points. At the last two or three races we`ve been able to fight for the top 10, but for so many reasons we didn`t make it.

"With these new tyres they are much better for us. I`m encouraged to see how we will be at Spa because normally in the high-speed corners are our car is quite good."

Hungary was the last race before Formula One shuts up shop for the August break. The Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps is next up on August 25.

Reuters

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Celeb Trend: Wide Leg Prints

Celebs have been spotted beating the summer heat lately in pretty printed pants. These breezy numbers are wide-legged for a comfortable, summer fit and are perfect for running errands, traveling, or grabbing a quick bite to eat. They are trendy, comfortable but can be dressed up with heels and a blazer if you need to kick it up a notch in a flash. They also are a breath of fresh air if you’re looking for something fun and funky. Selena Gomez lunched in LA recently in a pair of Free People prints and a black crop top and looked summertime sweet. Alessandra Ambrosio traveled with ease in Ella Moss sun tile pants with a black t-shirt and flat sandals and kept it casual. And Miranda Kerr took her comfort to a chic level by pairing her Joie pants with heels and a blazer for an on-trend travel look.

From left to right: Free People $98 , Ella Moss $148, Joie $278

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Chanel Classic Flap Bag Giveaway by Vaunte!

Congrats to Nato V. of Boca Raton, FL – winner of the Chanel flap bag!

Some bags come and go as blips on our fashion radars, but a Chanel flap bag will always be in style and our generous friends at Vaunte want you to have one! They’re sponsoring the giveaway of a vintage classic flap bag in petal pink caviar leather (the retail value is $4,400). Every Snob dreams of Chanel. It’s a true investment piece – if you win, there’s no investing necessary, though! And this will last the long haul. Caviar leather is much easier to maintain than lambskin, which will inevitably show off scratches and little dents.

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By participating in the contest, you’re agreeing to opt in to receive e-mail newsletters from Bag Snob and our sponsor, Vaunte. The contest will end on July 22 at midnight when a random computerized drawing will select the winner. Thank you to Vaunte for sponsoring such an incredible giveaway and giving Bag Snob readers special access to their site. Have you checked it out yet? They mix editorial fashion with shopping and a bit of healthy voyeurism – see which Snobs have opened up their closets to us this week.

Good luck to everyone entering the giveaway!

P.S. Bonus points if you tell us how many Chanel bags you already have or dream of having – comment below!

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Chanel Superstition Fall 2013 Collection: Lady Luck

Chanel seemed like the kind of Snob who made her own luck in life, but when it came down to it, she was superstitious. The icon kept tons of good luck charms around her, and I have a feeling these products will be ours this fall. After all, looking good makes you feel good, and when you feel good, you do well, right? The first thing on my list is the cream blush ($38) – it’s easy application without sacrificing color. To achieve that sexy air of mystery, we’ll be needing the eye shadow quad ($59), though. Pair one of the shades with khaki liner ($30) and coordinating mascara ($30) for a muted smoky eye. And of course there are new Rouge Coco Shine ($34) and Le Vernis Nail Color ($27) hues. With names like Instinct, Rendezvous, and Secret, it sounds like we’ll be up to a lot of trouble this fall – I can’t wait! Available at Nordstrom.

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Charlotte Olympia Veuve Clicquot Collection: Raise Your Glass

I love champagne. I love bags. So champagne-inspired clutches? Sure, why not! The cheeky Charlotte Olympia is known for reaping inspiration from all facets of life (the light-hearted ones, at least) and transforming them into wearable art. Her boundless imagination never fails to impress me. While I was not a fan of her Frosty the Snowman coin purses, her take on Veuve Clicquot’s fizzy bottles makes for a collaborative capsule collection I can get behind.

The Bouzy Pandora (sounds like a girl I knew in college) plays up Veuve’s pretty pink luggage-inspired cases, while the Cheers! clutch’s circular perspex handle makes for frisky evening kitsch and the Cork pouch is lightly sparkling yet totally subtle. My favorite of the lot is the Bubbly Pandora for maximum effervescence. Who knew bubbles could come to life so chicly? Now if only these bags came with a cold bottle of Veuve Rose and a red velvet cupcake, life would be complete, indeed.

The Bouzy Pandora, $1,200; Cheers!, $1,050; Cork, $596; Bubbly Pandora, $1,050, available at Charlotte Olympia.

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Drawing with Holmes & Yang at Barneys: Color Me Chic

To celebrate the release of their new collection, Holmes & Yang created a coloring book, and Barneys asked me to sketch and style a look from Fall 2013! Do you like?? Check out other Art Snobs at work like Jeanne Yang and Simon Doonan, then take a stab yourself by downloading the coloring book. Put together your dream outfit, then shop for it at Barneys!

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Edie Parker Bespoke Flavia Clutch: Say My Name

The bespoke Flavia minaudière by Edie Parker is for the snob who really has every bag. Just look at the ladies who have already been snapped with it in hand: Anna Dello Russo and Giovanna Battaglia are fans of flaunting their monikers with it. When your collection starts to feel complete, it’s nice to enhance it with a few personalized pieces.

Getting your name scrawled across in sweet script is the obvious way to go, but you can also customize this perfect party clutch with the name of your love, an uplifting word, or maybe best of all, something totally cryptic only you understand.

When ordering the handcrafted clutch, you also get to choose the color (silver or gold confetti, white, nude, or steel pearlescent), as well as the color of the lettering (sparkly confetti or solid black). Ringing in at $1795, this makes for a great gift, one that would make you a very good friend. But as they say: it’s better to give than to receive.

At Edie Parker for $1,795 (expect 4-6 weeks for creation and delivery).

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Elise Dray Dragon Articulated Ring: A Jewel of Fire and Ice

Chalk it up to me being in Asia (and a Game of Thrones addict), but I’m suddenly drawn to all things dragon. If I can’t have a real one to turn my enemies to ash, I’ll just have to get my fire and ice from Elise Dray’s articulated full finger ring. Even though the French designer’s collection is only four years old, the fantastical scope is far from small. This white gold creature alone is covered in more than 2.5 carats of pave diamond scales and black diamond fins, and the details are incredible – down to the black diamond eye! While you might think it’s pricey, just remember that Daenerys Targaryen got 8,000 unsullied for one dragon (if you’re not a Game of Thrones fan, that’s 8,000 slave soldiers for one of her three dragons). So really this is a deal – and a diamond-encrusted one at that! Available on Luisa via Roma for $18,667.

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Eye Makeup Tips In Urdu

Although eye makeup sometimes seems like the easiest to use, it’s always helpful to get free eye makeup tips.Simply smearing on some shadow and black mascara is a good start for enhancing the way your eyes look, but if you are using the wrong color of eye shadow or outdated and heavy handed techniques, you might actually be doing yourself a disservice.

With a few basic expert techniques, you can manage to make your eyes look wider, brighter, and larger all at the same time. You can also learn how to make your eye color stand out. There are a few rules and secrets used by the experts, with special attention paid to eye lashes.

Basic Eye Makeup Advice

One of the simplest yet most frequently overlooked free eye makeup tips is the importance of highlighting your eyes.

You can use eye shadows or other types of eye makeup that emphasize their highlighting benefits, or you could use simple white shadow and dab it in the corners of your inner eyes. After a night out on the town, this can really help wake up your eyes and make your whites look whiter.

Using different colors of eye shadow for your lids as well as the creases in your eyes can make eyes look bigger. You should also consider using a highlighter underneath your brows, so that the expanse between your eye and eyebrow looks larger and fuller.

Advanced Eye Makeup Techniques

Eye shadow and highlighter is only one factor to think about when you are looking at free eye makeup tips. You should also learn how to use eyeliner properly.

While most women instinctively reach for basic black, if you are willing to experiment more with color you could make the colors of your eyes stand out.

Choose a color that contrasts with your eye color, and line the inside rims of your eyes for a more dramatic look.

This can then be accentuated with lengthening your eyelashes through curling, or even with the use of false eyelashes. Don’t be afraid to go over the top with your eye makeup in urdu, but be sure to pair this with a toned-down lip shade.

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Fashion Noir: Fade to Black

There are times when I will dress in all black 24/7. Nothing makes a girl feel sexier than wearing it head-to-toe (lingerie included!). Liven yours up by pairing different textures together – high shine with rich suede and sheer chiffon. Who cares about color as long as there’s a little contrast? And while black is always in style, we have even more reason to go dark now thanks to the noir trend.

Maison Martin Margiela Leather Key Lock Necklace: We’ve seen leather on just about everything at this point, but this is something new. MMM’s lock and key are guaranteed to bring instant edge to any outfit. On Shopbop for $440.

Christian Louboutin Cris Spiked Leather iPad Case: Speaking of edge – why not be literal with it? After all, you want a case that will really protect your iPad! On NET-A-PORTER for $695.

Diane von Furstenberg Isolde Silk-Chiffon Blouse: Be the heroine in your own gothic romance with DVF’s sheer silk-chiffon number. On NET-A-PORTER for $265.

Adia Kibur Wide Cuff: Even if you don’t go full-on blackout, a chunky piece like this resin cuff can add some depth (without making you dig deep into your pockets!). On Shopbop for $30.

Saint Laurent Black Suede Paris Pump: Besides being ridiculously sexy and sumptuous, black is the easiest suede to keep clean. Isn’t nice when looking good is actually practical? On Ssense for $645.

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Firdous Fashion Eid Lawn Design With Prices 2013 for Women

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Freeze 24-7 SkinSmoothie Retexturizing Glycolic Pads 10%

Freeze 24-7 IceCream Double Scoop Anti-Aging Moisturizer ($105) is one of my fave products, so I was excited when the brand announced that they were launching something new, SkinSmoothie Retexturizing Glycolic Pads 10% ($75). I’ve been all for glycolic exfoliation ever since meeting with famed dermatologist Dr. Schultz who swore that after daily sunscreen application, exfoliating with glycolic acid is the key to forever youthful skin. These pads make it super easy. There are 16 in a box and they’re more like finger mitts than pads so not only are they great for travel, they’re easy to use and mess free.

Gentle enough for daily use, they’re meant to be used twice a week – all you do is take the seal off of one of the pads and swipe it on to your clean, dry face and neck in an upward circular motion. You then wait about two minutes before applying your moisturizer. Because my skin is still relatively new to glycolic in high, regular doses (10% glycolic acid is the highest allowed for at-home cosmetic products), I was a bit worried about having a bad reaction and tested the pads on just a side of my face. Luckily I had no sensitivity and am now using these all over my face twice a week before going to bed.

Glycolic is really a power house ingredient (read more about it here), and these are an easy way to work them into your routine.

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