New USGA chief vows not to stifle golf

Digest

GOLF

Mike Whan has promised he will not place “handcuffs on manufacturing” when he becomes chief executive of the USGA this summer following his departure from the LPGA.

The game’s governing bodies are set to limit clubs to a maximum of 46 inches and are seeking feedback on the potential use of a local rule that would specify the use of equipment intended to result in shorter hitting distances.

Asked what his approach would be, Whan said: “I’ll be honest with you, I have a lot to learn there.

“I’m certainly not going to be the USGA CEO who throws a blanket over R&D and puts these handcuffs on manufacturing and says ‘Innovation ends today.’”

BOXING

Josh Taylor’s undisputed super lightweight bout with Jose Ramirez is set to take place in front of supporters in the United States.

Top Rank promoter Bob Arum, who represents the pair, has held talks with Nevada Governor Stephen F. Sisolak and admits he is confident at least 8000 fans will be allowed into the iconic MGM Grand in Las Vegas to watch the fight.

The contest is expected to be confirmed for May 22, two weeks later than initially planned, after Mexican ring legend Canelo Alvarez’s bout with Billy Joe Saunders was pencilled in for May 8 in the US.

CRICKET

England head coach Chris Silverwood has apologised for the way Moeen Ali’s departure from India was communicated, and insists the rotation policy that led to it does not undermine the Test team.

“First of all we’re sorry if the impression we gave yesterday was that Moeen’s being treated different to other people,” Silverwood said.

“He isn’t, I can guarantee you of that; the decision was ours. We’re happy to own that decision.”