SNOOKER: World snooker chiefs have hit out at Northern Ireland’s Mark Allen over disparaging remarks about China made on Twitter. World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association chairman Jason Ferguson said Allen’s comments were “extremely disappointing” and said the governing body planned to investigate. In a series of tweets Allen lashed out at facilities currently hosting the Haikou China Open. “This place is horrendous! Dead cat found this morning. Any wonder this place stinks! Must be dead cats all round the town!!” Allen wrote.

BASKETBALL, NBA: Wearing a mask to protect a broken nose, 14-time all-star Kobe Bryant finished with 31 points and eight assists as the Los Angeles Lakers routed Minnesota 104-85. Bryant donned the clear plastic mask after suffering a broken nose and concussion in the 61st NBA all-star Game on Sunday.

MOTOGP: Reigning MotoGP world champion Casey Stoner continued his pre-season dominance yesterday as top riders wrapped up a round of tests on this year’s new 1,000cc bikes in Malaysia. The Australian recorded a top lap time of 2 minutes 0.473 seconds, with Honda team-mate, Spaniard Dani Pedrosa, second with 2:00.648.

TENNIS: The hard courts of Brisbane will host Australia’s Davis Cup tie against South Korea next month. Australia are seeking a return to the World Group for the first time since 2007, and victory over the Koreans over April 6-8 would thrust them into a play-off for the elite tier in September. “The weather and the court are ideal for the boys and the conditions will definitely boost our chances of winning,” said Australia captain Pat Rafter.

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