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First Division Playoff Semifinals Conclude Later This Week

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SOCCER

Bolton and Watford hold the slight upper hand over Ipswich and Birmingham City, respectively, as the First Division playoff semifinals draw to a nail-biting conclusion later this week. The prize for the teams will be a Wembley showdown, with the winners of that match claiming a place in the Premiership next season. Bolton's 1-0 victory against Ipswich in the first leg, coupled with Watford's repeat scoreline in their game with Birmingham should set up a tense second leg for all four sides.

In the Second Division playoffs, Preston and Gillingham and Wigan and Manchester City finished all square in their first leg matches to set up a frantic return. Manchester City and Gillingham, though, will be favourites to progress with the second leg being played at both their respective home grounds.

CRICKET

With the first weekend of the World Cup behind us, the early favourites have justified their short prices at the bookmakers. South Africa's successful run chase against India at Hove on Saturday was the most impressive victory we've seen to date, with the all-round quality of Jacque Kallis and Lance Klusener shining through.

England's comfortable win in the opener against Sri Lanka will not be a pointer to their prospects as the event progresses. Having won the toss, Alec Stewart's side had a clear advantage putting the Sri Lankans into bat on a damp Lords track. Sri Lanka confirmed pre-tournament fears about their bowling weaknesses. They are no longer the force they were when winning the Cup three years ago.

Pakistan's victory against the West Indies on Sunday was impressive in that they succeeded in defending a modest total of 229-8. The Windies were reduced to 202 all out, with pace bowler Shoaib Akhtar showing why he is rated as the fastest bowler in the world at the moment. Australia's victory over Scotland surprised no one. The Waugh brothers, Mark and Steve, both contributed with the bat and the pair will be key to the Aussies' hopes of progressing into the final stages.

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