Dakar Rally: Alonso second in Stage 8

Wadi Ad-Dawasir (Saudi Arabia): Two-time Formula One world champion Fernando Alonso recorded his best result of the Dakar Rally on Monday, finishing second behind Frenchman Mathieu Serradori in Stage 8. The stage was shrouded in mourning after the death of Portuguese rider Paulo Goncalves. The motorbike and quadbike categories were cancelled for the stage, a 477km loop incorporating straight sections with several chains of dunes to test handling skills.

Port Elizabeth

Root back in training ahead of third Test

England captain Joe Root was back in training after being sidelined with an upset stomach ahead of the third Test against South Africa at St George’s Park starting on Thursday. The touring side have been decimated by illness during the tour, with 17 players and support staff laid low at different times. “The first week was horrific, it’s good to see him back,” assistant coach Paul Collingwood said.

Dhaka

Mashrafe gives up Bangladesh contract riches

Bangladesh ODI captain Mashrafe Mortaza has withdrawn from his lucrative national team contract amid growing concern over his form and fitness but has been offered a “grand farewell” match. Mashrafe, 36, stayed as captain even after becoming an MP for the ruling party in 2018. He claimed just one wicket in eight matches in the World Cup in England last year. agencies