Short Corner — Chandigarh

England, Lanka set for World Cup launch
Hosts England and reigning champions Sri Lanka will launch the 1999 cricket World Cup at Lord’s here tomorrow in an enthralling clash of cricketing cultures. To add to the drama, this will be curtain-raiser laced with bad blood and personal emnity.

Tough rivals
South African captain Hansie Cronje today said he expected a stiff challenge from 1983 champions India in their opening group `A’ league match of the cricket World Cup here on May 15.

Rafter wins
Australia’s Patrick Rafter surged into the Italian Open quarter-finals here today with a 6-1, 7-6 (7/4) win over Andre Agassi, who promptly called himself a "schmuck".