Widely promoted this year is the Potty Putter, a floor mat in the shape of a tiny putting green, with a plastic cup and flag and a miniature putter.

WSJ: What to Get a Golfer for the Holidays | Golf Journal by John Paul Newport

His remit spread to the Twenty20 Cup, in finding new sponsorship in the shape of Totesport for the Sunday League and even in upgrading the ECB's website.

BBC: SPORT | Cricket | One campaign too many for Wilson

At the World Cup in June, the hosts will face superior opposition in the shape of Group A opponents Mexico, Uruguay and 1998 world champions France.

BBC: Parreira laments lack of quality friendly matches