Deans backing for O’Gara move to NZ
RUGBY
FORMER Crusaders player and coach Robbie Deans says a potential swoop for Ronan O’Gara would be the right move at the right time for both parties.
The Racing 92 defence coach confirmed on Saturday that talks had begun between the clubs.
And with former Crusaders assistant coach Leon MacDonald parting ways in recent months, Deans believes this is the ideal time to secure O’Gara’s services.
“There is that word out there, it hasn’t been confirmed yet, but if that is what they are seeking to do I can understand it,” said Deans.
“They lost a good man in Leon. Scott Robertson is obviously looking to replace him and it’s not a silly idea to seek some crosspollination. A different voice and a different approach maybe.”
MOTORSPORT
PIRELLI and McLaren have cancelled a Formula One tyre test scheduled for the Brazilian Grand Prix circuit today and tomorrow after teams were targeted by armed robbers in Sao Paulo over the weekend.
“Following a robbery attempt, neutralised by Pirelli security, on a Pirelli van at the Interlagos circuit last Sunday...it has been decided to cancel the tyre test,” Pirelli said in a statement.
“The decision, shared with McLaren, FIA and Formula One, was made in the interest of the safety of the personnel, both McLaren’s and our own, who would have participated in the test,” they added.
HOCKEY
MITCH DARLING returns to the Ireland squad, as they prepare to take on European champions the Netherlands in two uncapped matches in Upward Hockey Club on November 21 and 22.
Darling, who will make his first appearance in the green shirt since the 2016 Rio Olympics, is joined by Peter Caruth who comes back into the match squad following a period off due to injury.
The series will act as warm-up matches for the Netherlands who are preparing for World League 4 in India this December.
TENNIS
JAMIE MURRAY’s ATP Finals bid began in defeat as he and partner Bruno Soares were beaten in a match tie-break by American duo Mike and Bob Bryan.
Murray and Soares trailed their distinguished opponents by a set and 4-1 at the O2 Arena, although only after a dramatic collapse that saw them spurn three set points and a 5-3 lead.
They fought back to take the second set but a topsy-turvy contest turned again in the deciding tie-break as the Bryans recovered to win 7-5, 6-7 (3/7), 10-8. Grigor Dimitrov overcame a bout of beginner’s nerves to mark his ATP Finals debut with a 6-3, 5-7, 7-5 win over Dominic Thiem.