London, Apr. 1 : England batsman Kevin Pietersen has defended his decision to play in the Indian Premier League only a few days after complaining of homesickness during England''s lengthy tour of the Caribbean.

Pietersen said: "What happens in two weeks is a totally different kettle of fish and that''s the difference."

Pietersen believes he will be helping England by developing his game with his participation in the IPL.

Wellington (New Zealand), Apr. 1 : New Zealand must make one of their biggest selection gambles in recent times when the third test against India starts at the Basin Reserve on Friday.

A rehabilitated Tim Southee has been included in the 13-man squad for the must-win test and now he must play at the expense of James Franklin.

Yes, a bowler for a batting all-rounder.

London,

Wellington (New Zealand), Apr. 1 : India''s cricketers, it seems, will have a wicket of their choice when they meet New Zealand in the third and final cricket Test at the Basin Reserve ground here from Friday.

Any prospect of New Zealand pressurizing a pitch to deliberately favour seam bowlers was ruled out after the Indians praised Australian Brett Sipthorpe''s work.

Durban (South Africa), Apr. 1 : Australia's cricketers undertook a fishing trip in the South African coastal city of Durban ahead of their first one-day international against the Proteas here.

Victorian skipper Cameron White was among those on the fishing trip, while some members of the 14-man squad, including national captain Ricky Ponting and West Australian skipper Marcus North, decided to play golf instead.

London, Apr. 1 : England striker Wayne Rooney has said that he would love to be tied to his club Manchester United for life.

The striker, 23, has admitted that he looks up to his pals Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Gary Neville, who have remained with the club for nearly two decades.

The former Everton ace told Inside United: "I've always said that as long as United want me I'm happy to stay at the club. I don't want to leave. I love United and I have no reason to think about moving. I'm sure I'll be here for a long time."