Sportsday - rolling football news

1. Southampton complete Soares deal
2. England U21 v Portugal U21 (19:45 BST)
3. US Open golf first round
4. Trip to Paris wins Ascot Gold Cup

Sportsday Live

That's it for Sportsday Live for Thursday.

You can keep up to date with all of the evening's action via the BBC Sport website and Sportsday will return at 08:00 GMT on Friday.

England set for Euro opener

It is a big night for Gareth Southgate's England U21 side as they take on Portugal in their European Championship opener in the Czech Republic.

There will be commentary of the game on BBC Radio 5 live but to whet your appetite you can read about what 5 live's senior football reporter Ian Dennis thinks of England's hopes of success.

Ireland make strong start against Scotland

Ireland are taking on Scotland in the first of three T20 internationals at Bready Cricket Club in Tyrone at the moment.

The home side won the toss and elected to bat and are 84 for 3 after just over 13 overs.

You can follow the latest score on the BBC Sport website.

Rugby League

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

Thursday night's Super League game sees leaders St Helens travel to fifth placed Castleford Tigers and you can hear all the action on 5 Live Sports Extra.

Build-up starts at 19:30 BST with the game at 20:00.

Webber issues Formula One warning

AFP

Former Red Bull driver Mark Webber believes Formula One is in bad shape and revealed a number of drivers have been asking him about the increasingly popular World Endurance Championship.

The 38-year-old former Red Bull driver left F1 in 2013 and has since been driving for Porsche in endurance racing, finishing second to current F1 driver Nico Hulkenberg in last weekend's Le Mans 24 Hours race.

"We're disappointed what's going on with the cars, the lap times, it's just not stimulating for the drivers and this is rubbing off, the fans can see this," said the Australian.

"Over the last five or six years, they've got many, many, many things wrong to try and make the sport better and it became a sniff too artificial."

Get Involved

Here's the final bunch of comments on your perceptions of the Women's World Cup

Jonathan Elderfield: It's been a great cup so far. The quality has been excellent. Seems so stupid and pointless to compare to the men. Enjoy it for what it is. It's like boxing - what's the point comparing a heavyweight with a bantamweight- it's just different.

Steve Drabble: I have watched more women's football at the WWC than ever before. I don't think it right to compare with the men's game ... its different on so many levels. But I found it entertaining & think the game has progressed.

Luke Johnson: I used to love women's football. Poor organisation, poor discipline, space all over the pitch, shots at goal every two minutes, ridiculous scoreline. Now there's much more discipline and shape, the games are slow dull and devoid of any quality.

Baku bronze for Muhammad

AFP

Great Britain's Lutalo Muhammad has won -80kg bronze at the European Games in Baku.

Muhammad beat Italy's Roberto Botta 12-7 to add to team-mate Jade Jones's gold on Wednesday.

Welsh competitor given four-year ban

Welsh weightlifter Andrew Riddiford has been banned for four years after testing positive for banned substances, UK Anti-Doping has announced.

The 26-year-old is the first British athlete to be suspended for such a period since the minimum sanction for intentional cheating was raised from two to four years by the World Anti-Doping Agency in January.

He tested positive for the anabolic steroid Epistanozolol-N-glucuronide, and Clenbuterol following an in-competition test at the Welsh Senior Championships on 8 March.

Hammer-time at the US Open

What was your greatest achievement at the age of 15?

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American Cole Hammer has just made par on the first hole of the US Open at Chambers Bay. The Texan is the third-youngest player in the tournament's history.

From deep rough he bounces one onto the putting surface brilliantly and leaves his putt an inch short. Impressive teenager.

NFL safety boss says the league could ban helmets one day

The chairman of the National Football League's health and safety advisory commission believes American football could ban helmets in the future.

The NFL has tried to reduce the risk of head injuries over the last five years and recently reached an almost $1bn legal settlement with ex-players suffering with head trauma.

But some experts think helmets give the players a false sense of security.

"Can I see a time without helmets? Yes," said Dr John York. "It's not around the corner, but I can see it."

Toulson claims Baku diving gold

15-year-old diver Lois Toulson has won Great Britain's third gold medal at Baku 2015 after success in the 10m platform event.

The Leeds athlete won her first British title earlier this year.

Lopez and Isner in tight battle

AFP

Action is continuing at Queen's Club with Feliciano Lopez up against John Isner.

It's been a battle of the big serves so far with Isner winning the first set 7-6 and Lopez taking the second by the same scoreline so they are into a decider before fourth seed Marin Cilic faces Viktor Troicki.

You can follow the latest on the BBC Sport website and you can also see the five best shots from Andy Murray's earlier win over Fernando Verdasco.

GB reach semi-finals

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Great Britain women's hockey team have beaten South Africa 2-0 in the semi-finals of the World League 3 quarter-final in Valencia.

Goals from Alex Danson and Kate Richardson-Walsh set up a semi-final against Germany or Spain and puts them one step clear to qualification for the Rio Olympics.

Full-back Locke resigns from Salford

Salford Red Devils full-back Kevin Locke has resigned from the Super League side over unpaid wages, reports BBC Radio Manchester.

The 26-year-old Kiwi moved to Salford from New Zealand Warriors last year but has struggled with injuries and form.

Locke's solicitor Richard Cramer has confirmed that Locke offered his resignation on Monday, 15 June.

US Open latest

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A hot start to the US Open sees household names Phil Mickelson, Henrik Stenson, Adam Scott and Dustin Johnson top of the leaderboard on two under.

It is early stages with Mickelson - on the seventh hole - more advanced than his rivals.

Rory McIlroy is a shot adrift and anyone fancy Colin Montgomerie? Monty is one under through three holes.

Ciftci charged with biting

Dundee United striker Nadir Ciftci has been charged by the Scottish Football Association with biting Dundee FC's Jim McAlister during the derby on Sunday 24 May.

Wales should believe - Henry

PA

Wales should believe they can win Euro 2016 if they qualify for next summer's finals, says former Arsenal and France striker Thierry Henry.

Wales are three points clear at the top of qualifying Group B with four games remaining after beating Belgium 1-0 and Henry thinks Wales should be inspired by Euro 2004's shock champions Greece.

"They have an amazing chance to qualify. Look what happened back in 2004. Nobody expected Greece to win it but they did," he told BBC Wales Sport.

"If they do manage to do it [qualify], then they need to go to France with the mentality and desire to win the competition. Otherwise they might as well stay at home and not bother qualifying."

Moore continues Royal Ascot dominance

Jockey Ryan Moore has equalled the modern day Royal Ascot winners with his eighth of the week after War Envoy (10-1) won the Britannia Stakes.

Magath link with 1860 Munich rejected

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Former Fulham manager Felix Magath will not be returning to management with German second division club 1860 Munich, say the club.

Magath had been linked with a return to Munich, where he won back-to-back Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal doubles with Bayern.

But 1860, who only narrowly missed out on relegation to the third division last season, say the speculation is "false".

Lottery winner ends gamble on Newport

The EuroMillions winner who has bankrolled Newport County's rise to league football is stepping down from the League Two club's board with immediate effect.

Huw Evans picture agency

Les Scadding was chairman when Terry Butcher (left) was named manager in April

Les Scadding, who won £45m with his ex-wife in 2009, has spent about £1.25m on Newport since becoming chairman in August 2012.

But the 58-year-old said in February he would stop bankrolling the club - who are now managed by former England international Terry Butcher - in the long term.

Ruddock in injury scare

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Ireland flanker Rhys Ruddock could miss the World Cup after suffering a suspected broken arm.

The Leinster player, 24, suffered the injury while captaining Emerging Ireland in the victory over Uruguay in Tbilisi, Georgia on Wednesday and is awaiting the results of an X-ray.

He missed the Six Nations after breaking the arm in a European Champions Cup game against Harlequins and had additional surgery on the arm in April.

Golf

This is how you'd like to imagine all golfers prepare for a US Open . . .

England's Jason Palmer is out at 21:00 BST alongside American Roberto Castro and Andres Romero of Argentina  

European Under-21 Championships

Wolves striker Benik Afobe has been called into Gareth Southgate's squad following the withdrawal of West Brom's Saido Berahino.

Shattered by success

Swedish golfer Anna Nordqvist won the ShopRite LPGA Classic in New Jersey in May, but she won't be kissing the trophy again in a hurry after it was delivered to her house in little bits...

Heatly's medal success

EPA

Scottish diver James Heatly has added to the GB medal tally at the European Games in Baku with bronze in the 1m Springboard competition.

Heatly qualified for the final in fourth place and finished with a total of 483.40 points for Team GB's first aquatics medal.

New Fifa candidate poised?

BBC sports editor Dan Roan tweets...

Trip to Paris wins Ascot Gold Cup

Chester Cup winner Trip to Paris claimed a second big success after a superb win the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot

The horse's owners paid £30,000 to add the horse to the field and the gamble paid off in style as the 12-1 finished ahead of Kingfisher (5-1) with the 5-2 favourite Forgotten Rules back in third.

It is the first Gold Cup for trainer Ed Dunlop and gives jockey Graham Lee, who won the Grand National on Amberleigh House in 2004, a unique double.

Leaders Durham make it six wins from eight

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County Championship Division One leaders Durham completed a resounding 178-run win over Sussex at Arundel.

Set a target of 514 to win, Sussex looked as though they may salvage a result as they progressed from their overnight 114-2 to 242-4 thanks to Luke Wells' first century of the season.

But once Wells fell for 108, a collapse followed as the hosts lost six wickets for 93 runs to be bowled out for 335.

Off-spinner Scott Borthwick starred with the ball as he took 4-46.

Get Involved

We've been asking for your thoughts on the Women's World Cup. Here are a few...

Simon Broughton: Been impressed with the use of pace and width, need to be more clinical in front of goal and maybe play the ball a little quicker in to the strikers.

Anthony Pearson: One thing to note is the number of goals scored because the keepers in general are relatively small compared to the size of the goal. It makes you wonder if there was a change in the men's game whereby the goals were enlarged, would it lead to better entertainment?

Mick Trezise: I've seen good games and poor ones, exactly as with the men.

Grass not always greener?

Arsenal need mental toughness

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Arsenal have won back-to-back FA cups but now need to show more mental strength to challenge for the Premier League and Champions League, according to former Gunners forward Thierry Henry.

"One of the things the team has to focus on more is mental toughness and consistency," he told the club's official website.

"There have been games that we have not won that we should have, so we have to be more consistent to get to the next level."

Clyne to Liverpool?

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Southampton have signed right-back Cedric Soares from Sporting today so what does that mean for Nathaniel Clyne.

According to the Liverpool Echo in today's gossip column, the arrival of Soares paves the England international to move to Liverpool.

The Reds had an initial £10m offer rejected and will put in an improved bid.

Glamorgan beat Surrey by seven wickets

BBC Radio Wales Sport's Nick Webb at Guildford:

"Glamorgan have recorded three consecutive Championship wins for the first time in five years as they strolled to victory over Surrey after being set a modest 247 for victory.

"Will Bragg top-scored with 83 in a second-wicket stand of 128 with Ben Wright, who contributed 68.

"Surrey remain in second place but Glamorgan are now the only unbeaten side in Division Two."

Question of Sport teaser

A couple of hours ago, we asked which five nations have scored four or more goals in a game at the 2015 Women's World Cup.

The answers? Cameroon, France, Germany, Norway and Switzerland.

Murray beats Verdasco

BBC Tennis correspondent Russell Fuller is at Queen's...

Royal Ascot

BBC Sport's Frank Keogh tweets...

Murray beats Verdasco

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Andy Murray is safely through to the next round at Queen's after beating Spaniard Fernando Verdasco in straight sets 7-5 6-4.

Murray will now play Gilles Muller.

Follow the action from Queen's right here.

Curvy wins Ribblesdale Stakes

It is a magnificent seven for jockey Ryan Moore as his 9-2 shot Curvy beats the evens favourite Pleascach in the Ribblesdale Stakes at Royal Ascot to give him his seventh winner of the meeting - and his second on the day.

You can find all of the day's horse racing results on the BBC Sport website.

US Open underway

Play is underway in the US Open. The 156-strong field is around 30 minutes into round one and Phil Mickelson has just began his tournament. Lefty still does not hold a US Open title remember.

Morgan Hoffman

It will be big, big news if he picks up the trophy come Sunday but the biggest news for now coming in from Chambers Bay on America's west coast is that of Morgan Hoffman's trousers. Wow.

Rory McIlroytees it up at 16:28 BST. Tiger Woods at 10:28 BST.

Get Involved

You're still telling us what you think of the Women's World Cup...

Stuart Bennett: I don't watch women's football because it's sub-standard but none more so than non-league football which I don't watch for the same reason.

Matthew Frost: People won't remember the good stuff in the women's World Cup, they'll remember the 10-0 thrashings. Set the women's game back.

Karl Digby: WWC has been brilliant so far. Some quality goals. I make no comparison to the men's game, I just love football.

How far can England go?

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England have sealed their place in the last 16 and now face Norway, but how far can they go?

BBC Sport looks at the road ahead for Mark Sampson's team in Canada.

Southampton sign Soares

Cedric Soares arrives at Southampton in a deal worth up to £4.7m having been at Portugal club Sporting's academy since the age of eight and capped his rise through the ranks by playing for Portugal.

Southampton FC

"I joined this club because I believe we can do better and better every year," said Soares.

"Southampton is a big, big club in England and is very respected. It's a club with a lot of history and, for me, it's very important to play for a big club. I think this is a very good move."

Southampton sign Soares

Southampton's signing of defender Cedric Soares is their second arrival of the week following the capture of Juanmi from Malaga.

Southampton FC

"Cedric represents a quality addition to our squad, and is another player with a desire and hunger to succeed," said the club's executive director of football Les Reed.

"Like Juanmi, Cedric is a young player with international experience as well as exceptional talent and potential.

"While there was competition from other Premier League clubs we were confident we would prove to be an attractive option for such an ambitious player."

BreakingSouthampton sign Soares

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Southampton have confirmed the signing of 23-year-old Portuguese right-back Cedric Soares from Sporting on a four-year deal.

Dettori takes tally to 51

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Frankie Dettori has claimed his 51st Royal Ascot win with victory on 15-8 favourite Time Test in Tercentenary Stakes.

The Roger Charlton-trained colt won comfortably from Peacock, owned by The Queen.

Hamilton out to make amends

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Lewis Hamilton has vowed to "put things right" at this weekend's Austrian Grand Prix as he bids to cement his lead at the summit of the Formula One world championship.

Hamilton, who romped to a dominant victory in Canada earlier this month, could only start from ninth at last year's race at the Red Bull Ring.

Felipe Massa secured an all-Williams front row with team-mate Valtteri Bottas second, though Hamilton's Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg went on to win the race.

"I had a tough introduction to the circuit last year.," said Hamilton. "I struggled in qualifying, starting down in ninth, but I'll be working hard to have a clearer shot at the win on Sunday."

Condiment controversies

Did anyone else let out a weary sigh when Gareth Southgate was asked if his England under-21 players would be allowed ketchup while in the Czech Republic?

If so, you might enjoy this self-penned column in the Sunderland Echo by former Sunderland, Aberdeen and Barnsley goalkeeper David Preece about why condiment controversies mask wider issues for English national teams.

England face Portugal in their opening game of the tournament on Thursday (19:45 BST). You can listen live on BBC Radio 5 live or follow live text commentary on the BBC sport website.

Murray being made to work

Piers Newbery

BBC Sport

"When the breeze drops it's pretty toasty in west London right now, and Murray had to toil for that set a bit more than seemed likely at 3-0. The stands are rammed for the first time this week and quaffing is well under way. It's £40 for a half bottle of champagne. I'm told."

Murray takes first set

Reuters

Andy Murray has taken the first set 7-5 in his match against Fernando Verdasco at Queen's.

Follow the action live right here.

McIlroy happy to avoid hype

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Rory McIlroy believes he is in a better frame of mind heading into the second major of the season at the US Open, which starts later on.

The 26-year-old world number one says he could not escape the "hype" at the Masters in April as he attempted to complete a career Grand Slam.

"It has been nice not to have all the attention on me. I felt that is what it was at Augusta and I couldn't get away from it," McIlroy told BBC Sport.

Live commentary of the final two rounds are on BBC Radio 5 live on Saturday and Sunday between 22:00 BST and 03:00 BST. Live text updates are available from 1900 BST for every round on the BBC Sport website.

US Open quiz

The US Open will start today and to get you in the mood why don't you test your knowledge of the tournament.

CBBC Kickabout+ have produced a quiz and you can see if you know your birdies from your bogeys right here.

O'Sullivan 'offered money' to throw match

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Five-time world snooker champion Ronnie O'Sullivan says he was once offered "a lot of money" to throw a snooker match.

"I couldn't do it," the 39-year-old told The Clare Balding Show. "It's your sport, you love your sport.

The Englishman said the 12-year ban given to Stephen Lee in 2013 after he was found guilty of match-fixing has helped "stamp out" the problem in snooker.

Watch The Clare Balding Show on BBC Two on Friday, 19 June from 22:00-22:30 BST (23:25-23:55 BST on BBC Two Wales).

Vale sign Yeovil midfielder

Port Vale have completed the signing of Yeovil Town attacking midfielder Sam Foley on a two-year contract.

Foley, 28, made over 100 appearances in three years at Huish Park and scored twice in 40 games as the Glovers were relegated from League One last season.

Six-hitter Moore strikes at Royal Ascot

@Channel4Racing

Top gun: Armed police ask Ryan Moore for a selfie before racing

Waterloo Bridge (12-1) causes an upset in the day's opening race at Royal Ascot, the Norfolk Stakes, by beating the well-fancied Richard Hannon pair of Log Out Island (13-8) and King of Rooks (11-8 favourite).

The win gives jockey Ryan Moore his sixth win of the week from 13 rides at the Berkshire track.

You can follow all the latest results at the BBC Sport website.

'I've let Moldova down'

AP

Aaron Cook lost in the quarter-finals of the taekwondo event at the European Games earlier. The Dorchester-born 24-year-old, who switched allegiance to Moldova in April, lost to Portugal's Julio Ferreira on golden point.

"I feel like I've let them (Moldova) down today and that's why I'm very disappointed with myself," said a dejected Cook.

"I came here for the gold medal and I always come to every competition expecting the gold medal."

Crewe want Leigh transfer decision

Crewe Alexandra hope to hear whether young defender Greg Leigh will join the club permanently from Premier League side Manchester City by Friday.

Leigh, 20, made his senior debut and scored his first goal during his season-long loan with the Gresty Road outfit in 2014-15.

"Greg is our first choice and we should hear by the end of the week," Crewe boss Steve Davis told BBC Radio Stoke.

Stoke retain hope over Nzonzi

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Stoke chief executive Tony Scholes remains hopeful they can persuade midfielder Steven Nzonzi, who has 12 months remaining on his current deal, to sign a contract extension.

"In terms of Steven, and other members of the squad, we are talking and are in constant touch with the representatives and the players themselves," Scholes told The Sentinel.

"Steven's a great footballer, and obviously player of the year, and we would dearly love to keep him but we will see. We don't want to be losing players of quality like Steven but that's not always in our hands."

Officials happy with US Open course

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The US Open starts today and tournament officials are happy with the course, despite concerns about conditions at Chambers Bay.

The firm, dry Seattle course is built on land formerly used as a rock quarry and has an unorthodox layout.

United States Golf Association director Mike Davis said players would face a "comprehensive test".

But Davis added: "From a set-up standpoint and really presenting the golf course for a championship test, we couldn't be happier."

Live commentary of the final two rounds are on BBC Radio 5 live on Saturday and Sunday between 22:00 BST and 03:00 BST. Live text updates are available from 1900 BST for every round on the BBC Sport website.

D'Hoore wins Tour of Britain stage

Wiggle Honda rider Jolien D'Hoore has won the second stage of the Women's Tour of Britain from Braintree to Clacton.

The Belgian beat Lisa Brennauer in a sprint finish.

Muller dethrones champion

Gilles Muller has knocked defending champion Grigor Dimitrov out at Queen's, beating the Bulgarian 6-4 7-5.

He will now face either Andy Murray or Fernando Verdasco in the last eight, and those two men will be on court within the next few minutes.

Watch it live here

Weimann deal still close

BBC Derby's Owen Bradley has been keeping tabs on a potential Rams move for an Aston Villa striker... 

Konta out in Birmingham

Britain's Johanna Konta is out of the Aegon Classic in Birmingham after losing 3-6 6-3 6-4 to sixth seed Karolina Pliskova of the Czech Republic in the second round.

Top seed Simona Halep is into the last eight after beating Klara Koukalova of the Czech Republic 6-1 6-3, while also through is Spanish third seed Carla Suarez Navarro.

Vidal released by police

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Chile midfielder Arturo Vidal has been released from police custody after his arrest for crashing his car, allegedly while drunk.

The 28-year-old, who is the leading scorer in the 2015 Copa America taking place in his home country, crashed his Ferrari in Santiago late on Tuesday.

Vidal, who suffered minor bruising, has had his driving licence suspended, but will retain his place in Chile's team.

"I let everyone down," a tearful Vidal said as he was released.

Robson back in action

British tennis player Laura Robsonhas accepted a wildcard for Eastbourne this weekend, having not played since last year's Australia Open because of a persistent wrist injury...

Alonso to face grid penalty

EPA

McLaren's Fernando Alonsowill suffer a grid penalty at this weekend's Austrian Grand Prix that could be 20 places.

Engine supplier Honda is to make a number of changes for reliability reasons, which in each case will take Spaniard Alonso beyond his permitted four of each part.

Silva leads Sri Lanka charge

AFP

Sri Lanka have made 178-3 at close of play on the second day of the rain-affected first Test against Pakistan in Galle.

Wednesday's entire first day was washed out and Thursday's start was delayed by two hours.

Opener Kaushal Silva remained unbeaten on 80 and Kumar Sangakkara made 50 with the pair sharing a second wicket stand of 112 after Pakistan's captain Misbah-ul Haq won the toss and elected to field.

Durham pressing for victory

BBC Newcastle's Martin Emmerson at Arundel:

"Durham need another six wickets to beat Sussex but have been facing resistance today.

"Luke Wells, who was dropped on 77, has reached the ninth century of his first-class career, with most of his scoring shots today coming as boundaries. The century came in 216 balls and included 18 fours.

"The new ball is due in six overs. Sussex are 223-4 having been set 514 to win."

Ireland suffer shoot-out defeat

Ireland's women missed the chance to secure a place at the Rio Olympics after a 4-3 penalty shoot-out defeat by China in their World League 3 quarter-final in Valencia.

Xiaoxue Zhang gave China an early lead before Chloe Watkins fired home the equaliser on 42 minutes.

Great Britain will face South Africa in their quarter-final at 15:30 BST.

'Easy to miss test slot'

Another athlete, another drugs test observation. This time Scottish steeplechaser Eilish McColgan...

Glamorgan on course to chase 247

BBC Radio Wales Sport's Nick Webb at Guildford:

"Glamorgan look to be favourites for a third consecutive championship victory chasing a modest target of 247 to beat second-placed Surrey.

"The home side lost their last two wickets to Graham Wagg in the day's first over for the addition of just one more run.

"Gareth Batty dismissed rival captain Jacques Rudolph for 40 but Will Bragg and Ben Wright took Glamorgan almost halfway to their target."

Mohsni ban up to seven games

SNS

Former Rangers defender Bilel Mohsni has had his suspension extended to seven matches after being given an additional three-game ban for sparking a brawl after the Ibrox side's Scottish Premiership play-off defeat at Motherwell.

The Tunisia international initially received a four-game ban after he was red carded for punching and kicking Lee Erwin in the seconds after the 6-1 aggregate play-off final defeat.

But now a Scottish FA hearing has found the 27-year-old guilty of two further offences during a Hampden hearing.

Cricket

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Christian has played for Deccan Chargers and Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL

Following on from Somerset's signing of New Zealand wicketkeeper Luke Ronchi, Nottinghamshire have announced the arrival of Australian all-rounder Dan Christian to replace Darren Sammy for the rest of their T20 Blast campaign.

Christian, 32, has made 34 one-day international appearances and has played in the Indian Premier League.

He replaces West Indies all-rounder Sammy, who is off to the Caribbean Premier League after a four-game stint.

Get Involved

Has the World Cup changed your perception of women's football?

Mark Jacko Jackson: I noticed the interview saying the women don't wish to be compared to the men - fair enough. Then don't have a coach comparing players to Messi & co.

Graham Fraher: I think they did really well and despite the obvious and easy sexist jokes from idiots who are to blinkered to embrace women's football, I think they deserve more recognition for women's football as a whole.

Andrew Whitehouse: The obvious problem with the women's game at present is a lack of funding, a lack of support and at times a lack of respect from the male population who seem to think that men have a god given right to play the game and women don't.

Yankey pleased with England spirit

EPA

Former England winger Rachel Yankey believes the side need to continue the same form which helped them beat Colombia 2-1 to secure their place in the last 16 of the Women's World Cup.

"The England that played against Colombia was the England we wanted to see. It was fantastic, we were so positive, everyone wanted to get back, everyone wanted to defend," said Yankey.

"We were disappointed in the first game against France, when we lost 1-0, but that 2-1 win has really shot us up. Everyone back home wants to see us playing in that sort of spirit."

Read more here.

Have no fear

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Andy Murray must play "proactive, aggressive" grass court tennis that can guide him to another Wimbledon title, according to Tim Henman.

Murray's new coach Jonas Bjorkman has urged Murray to take a leaf out of former world number four Henman's serve-volley book at SW19 this summer in a bid to add to his 2013 title.

Henman said: "I don't think Andy should be serving and volleying every point, but it's that type of variation that maybe one point a game he should look to serve and volley. When he's proactive he plays his best tennis."

Watch live action from Queen's

Play has stared at Queen's and you can watch live right here.

Bulgarian sixth seed Grigor Dimitrov, the defending champion, is currently taking on Gilles Muller.

They will be followed by Andy Murray v Fernando Verdasco.

Ascot set for Ladies' Day

Frank Keogh

BBC Sport

Reuters

A crowd of 70,000 is expected at the Berkshire track for Ladies' Day, the highlight of the five-day Royal Ascot meeting, with the first race at 14:30 BST.

The going is officially described as Good to Firm, after the course was watered (5mm) last night to maintain safe ground.

Two years ago, the Queen famously enjoyed a big-race victory when her horse Estimate won the Gold Cup, and racing's most famous owner has three runners today - Peacock (5-1, 15:05 BST), Capel Path (10-1, 17:00) and Dartmouth (14-1, 17:35).

Get Involved

What are your thoughts on the Women's World Cup?

Shanmugaraja CK: Why call men's team by just country name and women's team by England Women?

CCS Dan: Some good games some mismatches and some spotty officiating like any tournament.

Hal's Pal: No the WWC has not changed my perception of women's football, but you wont dare print any comments like this.

Is that right, aye?

Adeoye gets captaincy role

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The 400m runner Margaret Adeoye will captain Great Britain and Northern Ireland at the European Athletics Team Championships, which takes place on Saturday and Sunday in Cheboksary, Russia.

The 30-year-old said: "I had a missed call from performance director Neil Black last week and thought what have I done? I wasn't going to call back in case I was in trouble.

"I was shocked when told me he wanted me to be the captain. After it sank in I felt huge pride and very privileged to have been asked."

Southgate rues Berahino absence

England Under-21 manager Gareth Southgate must now plan without injured striker Saido Berahino, who played a key role in getting the side to the European finals in the Czech Republic.

"It's a great personal disappointment for Saido," he said. "He's very conscious of it not affecting the team and we're personally disappointed for him because he's been with us from the very first game, scored our first goal and has been a huge part of the reason why we're here."

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The West Brom forward will be replaced by Wolves' Benik Afobe.

"Benik has had an excellent season with MK Dons and Wolves this season and he deserves the opportunity," Southgate added. "He knows most of the group already from playing in other age groups so we're looking forward to seeing him."

Watch Copa America highlights

Reuters

Brazil forward Neymar was sent off in his side's 1-0 defeat by Colombia in Group C of the Copa America in Chile.

The Barcelona forward was dismissed after the final whistle having kicked the ball in anger at Pablo Armero, whose team-mate Carlos Bacca was also dismissed for a shove in retaliation.

Watch highlights here.

Available to UK users only.

Ascot Gold Cup

BBC Sport's racing correspondent Cornelius Lysaght confirms that Forgotten Rules will run. It had been suggested that the favourite may be withdrawn if the ground was too firm.

BreakingLiverpool reject Sterling bid

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Manchester City's increased offer of more than £35.5m for Raheem Sterling was likely to be rejected by Liverpool and now, according to Sky Sports News, the bid has officially been turned down.

The Reds value the 20-year-old England forward, who has also been linked with Arsenal and Real Madrid, at £50m.

Last week Liverpool turned down a bid of £25m, plus add-ons, from City.

BreakingBerahino out of Euros

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We told you earlier (10:31) that West Brom striker Saido Berahino had suffered an injury in training ahead of the England Under 21 European Championship opener against Portugal.

However, the 21-year-old has been forced to pull out of the squad for the tournament with a knee problem and will be replaced by Benik Afobe of Wolves.

Get Involved

Some of you have looked past the gender issues surrounding the Women's World Cup and focused on the football...

James Hoult: There are some big teams qualifying for the knockouts and we have got to focus on the next match only. I think if we do to the ladies what we do to the men - overhype them - then just like the men they will disappoint.

Andrea Jarvis: They need to keep concentrating until the final whistle. Goals in stoppage time could be costly and the difference between going home or extra time in the knock out stages.

Stef Barnes: Let's not get to excited & over hype them like the men's team.

Question of Sport teaser

Time for today's teaser, which has a Women's World Cup theme...

Which five countries have scored four or more goals in a game at the finals in Canada?

Sherwood on Richards signing

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Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood has explained why he signed former Manchester City player Micah Richards, insisting the England defender will bring a "winning mentality" to the club.

Richards claimed Premier League and FA Cup winners' medals in his time at City but spent last season on loan at Fiorentina before agreeing a four-year deal with Villa on Wednesday.

"Micah is a winner. He helped Manchester City win their first Premier League title in 44 years, has won the FA Cup and has played in the Champions League," Sherwood told the official Villa website.

"So we are signing a player who is used to winning football matches. I want players with that winning mentality here."

Richards signs for Villa

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge has reacted to the news that former Manchester City team-mate Micah Richards has signed for Aston Villa...

Cook in European Games loss

Nick Hope

BBC Olympic sports reporter

There's been a shock in Baku, where Aaron Cook has crashed out of the taekwondo event at the European Games in the quarter-finals. The Dorchester-born 24-year-old, who switched allegiance to Moldova in April, lost to Portugal's Julio Ferreira on golden point."

Cook had been seeded to meet Britain's Lutalo Muhammad in the semi-finals of the -80kg event.

New boss Cox ready to rebuild Torquay

Brent Pilnick/BBC Sport

New Torquay United manager Paul Coxsays he is excited by the opportunity to rebuild the National League club.

Cox, 43, has signed a one-year deal at Plainmoor and succeeds Chris Hargreaves, who is on gardening leave.

"If you look at the wage structure, it's half of what was being spent last season," Cox told BBC Sport. "But I see building this club from what is its lowest ebb in a number of years as something that motivates me."

England pre-Ashes training squad

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England's pre-Ashes training camp squad is: Alastair Cook (Essex), Moeen Ali (Worcestershire), James Anderson (Lancashire), Gary Ballance (Yorkshire), Ian Bell (Warwickshire), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Steven Finn (Middlesex), Mark Footitt (Derbyshire), Adam Lyth (Yorkshire), Liam Plunkett (Yorkshire), Joe Root (Yorkshire), Ben Stokes (Durham), Mark Wood (Durham)

Footitt in England pre-Ashes set up

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Left-arm seamer Mark Footitt has been included in an England 14-man squad for a four day pre-Ashes training camp in Spain from Saturday, 27 June.

"With [coach] Trevor Bayliss arriving in the country next Thursday, Trevor, Alastair [Cook] and I felt it important that both players and management likely to be involved in the early stages of the Ashes have chance to meet him and fully understand his approach prior to meeting up for the start of the Test series," said director of England cricket Andrew Strauss.

"The squad for the first Test will be announced within a few of days of returning from the camp."

The Ashes starts with the first Test on 8 July.

Women's Tour of Britain

Darryl Morgan

The opening stage of the Women's Tour of Britain on Wednesday was overshadowed by a crash involving winner Lizzie Armitstead after the finish line.

BBC Suffolk Live has posted a picture of the scene from behind the finish as the riders approached and they will also have the latest from today's stage from Braintree to Clacton.

Large audience for England

The viewing figures are in and it turns out that 2.3 million people in the UK watched England beat Colombia on BBC Three on Wednesday.

Mark Sampson's side now face Norway in last 16 on Monday and you can watch that game on BBC Sport at 22:00 BST.

Dress to impress

BBC Sport's Frank Keogh has been soliciting advice about what to wear on Ladies' Day at Royal Ascot...

Get Involved

We're getting a strong response to our request for your opinions on the Women's World Cup...

Mark Kent: People moan at women's football, well, at least they are honest, passionate and care more about the shirt they are wearing than the men. What do the men's team have? A bunch of ragtag individuals that care more about the money they earn each week.

Stewart Highjinx Cormack: The women's team actually look like they're interested in the game, quite decent to watch I thought despite popular opinion.

Adam Sweeney: Some of these women are bigger cheats than the men. Even the Columbian goalkeeper dived against England.

NZ keeper Ronchi signs for Somerset

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Somerset have signed signed wicketkeeper Luke Ronchi for the T20 Blast campaign.

The New Zealand international will play five matches as a replacement for Kiwi Corey Anderson, who was injured in the recent Test series against England.

The 34-year-old has scored 263 runs in 15 T20 internationals at an average of 32.87 while he averages 29.45 in ODIs with a highest score of 170 not out.

Test of patience

Another athlete has had his say on reports that Olympic champion Mo Farah missed two drugs tests. This time, Britain's European 800m silver medalist Michael Rimmer...

This particular tweet ends abruptly, but you can read on here.

England 'can hurt' Norway

Empics

England boss Mark Sampson said his team are building momentum at the right time ahead of their Women's World Cup last 16-tie against Norway on Monday.

A 2-1 win over Colombia in their final Group F game ensured England finished second to France on goal difference. They now face a team who are five places below them at 11th in the world.

"Norway drew 1-1 with the best team in the tournament [Germany], but we are playing well and have weapons to potentially hurt them," said Sampson.

"We are building a real sense of momentum emotionally and in our results and performances so we can play them confidently and look to be positive."

Mulumbu set for Norwich

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Norwich City are set to sign former West Bromwich Albion midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu ahead of their Premier League return, reports BBC Radio Norfolk.

The 28-year-old DR Congo international was released by the Baggies at the end of last season after six years with the club.

Testing times

Olympic bronze heptathlon medalist Kelly Sotherton reacts to reports that Mo Farah missed two drugs tests...

Father Time back at Lord's

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The Instagram account of Lord's has posted the above picture with the message: "Great to see Father Time safely back! The Lord's weathervane had to have a spell off through injury but won't miss the Ashes."

In fact, the ground's weather vane which features a cloaked figure holding a scythe while bending over cricket stumps was damaged by strong winds in March and taken away to repair copper damage.

It is not the first time Father Time has fallen foul of bad weather. He was struck by lightning in 1992 and knocked completely off his perch when hit by a barrage balloon during the Blitz - before spending the rest of the Second World War in a cellar.

Get Involved

We asked if your perception of women's football has been changed by watching the World Cup...

Eva: Wonderful to watch the women's game develop. Artificial turf is awful. Standard of officiating is shocking.

Andy Williams: I am pretty impressed by the standard of football. It has come on leaps and bounds within a generation.

Ryan Stayner: Perception of woman's football remains - attacking, sporting and fun to watch.

Berahino injury doubt

Ben Smith

BBC Sport

Reuters

West Brom forward Saido Berahino is a doubt for England's Under 21 European Championship opener against Portugal on Thursday evening after picking up an injury in closed training on Wednesday.

The exact nature of the knock remains unclear but were Berahino to miss the game it would represent a second significant blow to manager Gareth Southgate's preparations after defender John Stones was ruled out of the first two pool games with concussion.

Liverpool close to Gomez deal

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Liverpool hope to finalise a deal for Charlton teenager Joe Gomez later this week, with the 18-year-old scheduled to undergo a medical on Friday, according to Press Association Sport.

It is understood the Anfield club have triggered a £3.5m release clause in the England Under-19 international's contract which has paved the way for the move to be completed and he will meet with club officials on Merseyside on Friday.

Murray makes Glasgow date - reports

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The Mail are reporting that plans are in place for world number three Andy Murray to headline a tennis exhibition in Glasgow.

The Scot is expected to face "a world-class opponent" at the 13,000-capacity SSE Hydro on Monday, 9 November - between the Paris Masters and the ATP World Tour Finals in London.

Murray faces Fernando Verdasco at Queen's on Thursday. Coverage starts on BBC Radio 5 live Sports Extra at 12:30 BST and on BBC Two at 13:10 BST.

Get Involved

We asked if your perception of women's football has been changed by watching the World Cup...

Mike Green: I think it's good to watch, attacking football, better than watching some of the rubbish served up by some Premiership teams.

Rob Edwards: Despite all the negative comments and mickey taking I've seen (not just here) I've thoroughly enjoyed watching the WWC. It might not be as technical and skillful as the men's game but it's very entertaining. I'm loving it.

Paul O Luap: Interesting that BBC coverage feels the need for a male present in the studio. There are no women on MOTD.

All smiles in Colombia camp

Falca on Instagram

Radamel Falcao helped Colombia to a 1-0 win over Brazil at the Copa America and posted this picture of his side's happy dressing room after the match.

England given warning by Smith

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Warrington coach Tony Smith has warned forward Anthony England any repeat of last weekend's spitting incident could cost him his place at the club.

England has been suspended for four matches by the Rugby Football League after being found guilty of spitting at Huddersfield captain Danny Brough.

"He has been let know in no uncertain terms that everyone is entitled to a mistake, but if you do the same again that will be the end of the road," Smith said.

ECB to launch Women's Super League

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The England and Wales Cricket Board have announced that a new Women's Super League will be launched for the 2016 season.

The competition will feature T20 cricket for the first season but will develop to both T20 and 50-over formats from 2017.

It will have six teams and, for the first time in the history of domestic women's cricket in England, will have prize money.

A £3m investment from the ECB over the next four years will also help each team to provide high quality coaching, facilities, training environments and community engagement plans.

Lisicki serves up ace record

Reuters

Sabine Lisicki set a world record for aces in a women's singles match by firing 27 in her second-round win over Belinda Bencic at the Aegon Classic.

The 2013 Wimbledon finalist hit 16 in the first set and 11 in the second to eclipse the mark of 24 aces, held jointly by American Serena Williams and Estonia's Kaia Kanepi.

"It's obviously a good weapon to have on grass," said the German, 25, after her 6-1 7-6 (7-4) win over her Swiss opponent in Birmingham.

Women's Tour of Britain

BBC

After winner Lizzie Armitstead was hospitalised following her crash while celebrating Wednesday's opening stage, the Women's Tour continues without her on Thursday in Suffolk and Essex.

The race gets underway at 10:00 BST and you can follow it with our colleagues at BBC Suffolk.

On this day

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In 1963, Henry Cooper put Cassius Clay on the canvas. However, the man who later changed his name to Muhammad Ali fought back to win, leaving his English opponent bleeding heavily from a cut over the eye.

Get Involved

Now that England's women have done what the men couldn't by progressing to the knockout stages of the World Cup, we want to get your thoughts on the tournament.

More than half a million of you in the UK followed our live text commentary of the win over Colombia on Wednesday, while England's opening game of the finals against France attracted a television audience of 2.4m.

Has your perception of women's football been changed and, if so, in what way?

Let us know via #bbcsportsday, text 81111 (UK users only) or post on BBC Sport Facebook

Tabanou having Swansea City medical

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St Etienne defender Franck Tabanou is undergoing a medical at Swansea City on Thursday.

The 26-year-old is expected to join Swansea on a three or four-year deal. The player's agent, Philippe Lamboley, has previously said: "He has chosen Swansea, he has told me he is not interested in any other offers from any other clubs."

Swansea began talks in January but failed to land Tabanou in that transfer window.

On this day

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In 1958, Douglas Jardine, who captained England in the controversial 'Bodyline' series in 1932-33, died aged 57.

England call-ups for Topley and Vince

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Reece Topley and James Vince (pictured) have been included in England's T20 squad to face New Zealand on Tuesday, 23 June at Old Trafford.

Eoin Morgan will captain a squad that includes five players - Sam Billings, Topley, Vince, David Willey and Mark Wood - yet to play an international T20. Topley and Vince are not involved in the current ODI series against New Zealand.

There is no place for former England T20 captain Stuart Broad.

"This match against New Zealand allows us another opportunity to look at players relatively new to international cricket as we look to build a squad for the World T20 in India this winter," said national selector James Whitaker.

England squad: Eoin Morgan (Middlesex), Sam Billings (Kent), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Steven Finn (Middlesex), Alex Hales (Nottinghamshire), Adil Rashid (Yorkshire), Joe Root (Yorkshire), Jason Roy (Surrey), Ben Stokes (Durham), Reece Topley (Essex), James Vince (Hampshire), David Willey (Northamptonshire), Mark Wood (Durham)

Wildcats line up Samoan Sio

Wakefield are closing in on the signing of Samoan international Michael Sio.

The Wildcats have space on their overseas quota following the recent departures of Lopini Paea and Dean Collis, who were both released from their contracts with immediate effect to enable them to return to Australia for personal reasons, and have lined up a move for the 22-year-old Sio.

"We've been in negotiations with Michael and hopefully we'll have that concluded shortly," said new coach Brian Smith.

Moore and Dettori in spotlight

Frank Keogh

BBC Sport

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Ryan Moore and Frankie Dettori are the jockeys grabbing the headlines going into Ladies' Day at Royal Ascot.

Moore, 31, has won five of the 12 races so far, and with 18 contests to go could potentially pass the modern-day record of eight winners clocked up by Pat Eddery in 1989.

Dettori, 44, continued his fine run of form with his 50th career victory at the Royal meeting on Wednesday. Moore rides the Aidan O'Brien-trained Kingfisher in today's feature race, the Gold Cup (16:20 BST), while Dettori partners Forever Now.

Irish challenger Forgotten Rules is the favourite, but will only run if trainer Dermot Weld is satisfied the ground is not too firm.

Pakistan win toss in Sri Lanka

Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq asked Sri Lanka to bat first after rain, which had wiped out the entire opening day's play, delayed the toss on day two of the first Test at Galle on Thursday.

"It looks like a batting track but we've already lost a day and a quarter. I'm also not sure of what's coming tomorrow," said Misbah.

Sri Lanka skipper Angelo Mathews said: "I was going to bat first. The wicket looks pretty dry, it would remain same for the first couple of days. I'm very happy to bat first."

The hosts are currently 40-1 off 16 overs.

Kicking superstar

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Jones adds another gold to collection

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One person you would not want to mess with is Olympic champion Jade Jones. She secured taekwondo gold for Great Britain at the European Games in Baku, Azerbaijan.

The 22-year-old from Flint in north Wales beat Croatia's Ana Zaninovic 12-9 in the final of the -57kg event.

"I'm just buzzing, winning gold is a massive confidence boost," Jones told BBC Sport. "I now have Youth Olympic, Olympic and European Games titles, which is a dream."