O’Byrne makes one last plea to the OCI

CRICKET: SOUTH Africa’s ‘pink’ one-day international against Sri Lanka encountered an unexpected hazard when a swarm of bees interrupted play for almost half an hour at the Wanderers. The hosts, who took the field wearing a pink strip in aid of charitable causes, were held up three times by bees in Johannesburg yesterday. A beekeeper removed the swarm and play resumed.

OLYMPICS: BERNARD O’BYRNE has made a final plea in his bid to be elected president of the Olympic Council of Ireland (OCI) on Thursday. The current head of Basketball Ireland insists a fresh start is needed, saying: ‘I have been asked whether my lack of OCI experience is a hindrance to my candidature. I absolutely believe it is a distinct advantage.

‘Both the other candidates have been present on the executive for years. A series of poor decisions have been made. Now you are asked to believe that true reform will take place if either are re-elected? I am simply offering my services to you all and will work with newly elected Executive Committee to deliver a reinvigorated OCI which serves all its member Federations.’