The world's top-ranked tennis player followed golf's No. 1 around the course at the HSBC Champions tournament yesterday, getting a special pass to watch from close range as Woods struggled to an even-par-72 in the opening round. Woods, back from a five-week break, met Federer at New York in September and the pair have become friends. He sat with Federer's girlfriend when the Swiss star won the US Open final. Federer was in Shanghai preparing for the season-ending Tennis Masters Cup and was heading back for practice after a brief meeting with Woods in the clubhouse.
■ Cricket
Lara still `best batsman'
Despite Brian Lara's lean form, he was still the spearhead of West Indies' batting in one-day cricket internationals, says former chairman of selectors Mike Findlay. Lara, who collected just 127 runs in seven innings during the Champions Trophy in India, needed to bat higher, Findlay said. "No matter what his form is Brian Lara is still our best batsman," he added. Findlay, who served as a selector for six years and convener from 1998 to 2002, also defended Lara's captaincy, noting he was still the team's best choice for the position.
■ Rugby Union
Wilkinson's woes continue
Jonny Wilkinson's injury jinx has struck again with the former England fly-half ruled out of action until the middle of next month with a kidney problem. Wilkinson, who has not played for England since landing the decisive drop goal in the 2003 World Cup final against Australia, made his comeback from a knee ligament injury in Newcastle's 26-21 Premiership win over Bristol last Friday. The 27-year-old sustained kidney damage during the game and has been advised to rest for one month before resuming any form of training. Wilkinson made three starts for Newcastle at the start of the season before suffering the knee injury that had kept him sidelined until last Friday.
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