Srinath to turn out for Leicestershire A snub by any other name is just as bitter, even though the Indian selectors insisted that leaving Javagal Srinath out of the probables for the ICC Champions Trophy was not a snub. Whether he signed up to play for Leicestershire out of pique, only he can tell us. But the lanky fast-bowler, who has turned out for Gloucestershire in the past, has signed a contract to replace Michael Bevan for the remainder of the county season. "I was looking forward to the ICC championship in Sri Lanka, but the doors have been shut," said Srinath. "I need some match practice before the Ranji season, and playing in the county circuit will help me retain my match fitness." Rumours were also doing the rounds that, upon announcement of the probables, the team management put in a request for Srinath. What the outcome of those requests was, nobody knows. But a very lively bet for punters at the moment will hinge on whether Srinath will travel to South Africa for the World Cup come next January.

Immediate success will be key for Key "People have been coming out of the woodwork to congratulate me. But now I'm just looking forward to getting out there and playing cricket," said Robert Key, Kent opener recently called up into the national squad for the second Test against India at Trent Bridge. As with the opening remark, Key appeared pragmatic and level-headed through the course of an interview with the Guardian. "I won't know whether I'm playing until the morning, but I must have a great chance," said Key. "I'm under no illusions. I know I wouldn't be here but for injuries to guys like Marcus Trescothick. I just hope I can give the selectors a dilemma." Key's first-class career, even by his own admission, was not fizzing along as happily as it could have a mere two years ago. But he averaged 44 last year, scoring 1,000 runs in the season for the first time. Part of his success, ironically enough, came about due to the efforst of John Wright, once Kent coach and now the coach of his opponents if he takes the field at Trent Bridge. Key also credits Alec Stewart for his turnaround. "Alec just told me to sort myself out and get in shape because I would have a great chance of playing for England after the retirement of Michael Atherton," he said. "When Alec Stewart picks you out to speak to, you sit up and take notice. He told me I had a great opportunity and that I should go out to Perth (to the Academy), get fit and work hard." Key duly performed all three tasks. Their effect, however, will only become clear if and when Key strides out to open the English batting.

Kapil does not hear the "Fore!" call Kapil Dev has gone on record saying that golf is the new love in his life, but after yesterday's incident, he may not be so sure. The former Indian cricket captain and recently named Wisden Indian Cricketer of the Century was hurt during an exhibition match at the Chandigarh golf course in Chandigarh on Tuesday. Kapil, who was playing in a Pro-Am tournament, was caught in the 90-yard range shot of another player. The star started bleeding profusely after being hit right in the middle of his forehead even as he was moving towards a group of fans on the green. Kapil Dev was rushed to a private hospital where the doctors stitched up the gash on his forehead. As in cricket, so also in golf - the basics must always be kept in mind. In this case: When you hear "Fore," get out of the way.

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