Rabada upbeat

Calcutta: Pacer Kagiso Rabada remains upbeat ahead of the fourth and final Test versus England, beginning at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Friday. "We are focusing on the positives. We'll play hard and not throw in the towel," he said in a Cricket South Africa release. Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock will have a final assessment on his troublesome knee on Wednesday.

Dravid views

Mumbai: One of the key aspects that the Rahul Dravid is focused on as the coach of the India U-19 squad is the ability to rotate the strike. "One thing I had stressed on was the ability to rotate the strike. It takes a lot of pressure off you. You may not get wickets where you can score 300-plus," he said.

DDCA promise

New Delhi: Justice Mukul Mudgal's report on the DDCA's ways of working has caught the brass in the faction-ridden association completely unaware, but treasurer Ravinder Manchanda promised to take stern action against those found guilty of indulging in malpractices. "I would not deny that I am a bit shocked and surprised that Justice Mudgal has given such a stinging report. But I can assure you that some strong steps will be taken very soon," said Manchanda.

MCC lecture

London: Brendon McCullum will deliver this year's MCC Spirit of Cricket Cowdrey Lecture on June 6 at the Lord's. The 34-year-old will become the second New Zealander to give the speech, following Martin Crowe in 2006.

Statement

Colombo: Appearing before police to record his statement in connection with a match-fixing scandal, Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews called for the game to be protected from vices like fixing. "I answered all their questions honestly to help them in their investigation," Mathews said of his meeting with Financial Crime Investigations Division (FCID).

Yuvi may sign

Calcutta: Yuvraj Singh, in all likelihood, will sign the certificates for blood donors when the CAB observes Frank Worrell Day on February 3. It was Jehan's maiden victory in Formula Cars since making the switch from karting to cars last year.

Bale injury

Madrid: Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale damaged a calf muscle in Sunday's La Liga game at home to Sporting Gijon, tests confirmed on Tuesday. "After tests carried out today, Bale has been diagnosed with a soleus muscle injury in his right leg," Real said on their website.