By Dan Waddell It is one of the lesser known but more remarkable facts in the annals of cricketing history that Adolf Hitler once took an interest in the game – then fell out with it decisively. This was witnessed at first-hand by British Army officers held prisoner in Germany during the First World War, who met the then corporal and were surprised to find him asking for an explanation of the rules. A few days later, Hitler returned to announce that he had been training a team of Germans and wanted to play the English at the earliest opportunity. The scores are unknown.

For all the Third Reich’s loathing  of the game, cricket and
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Germany shared a secret history.


Danny Cipriani  demonstrated his enhanced defensive qualities in front of England coach Stuart Lancaster as Sale ambushed Wasps to claim a back-foot win in Salford on Sunday. The Sharks moved up to eighth in the Aviva Premiership table, above the visitors on points difference, with this win founded on spirit and graft. While Cipriani missed four kicks at goal — three penalties and a conversion — in blustery conditions, he ran the show with assurance for the hosts and tackled resolutely in the face of a Wasps onslaught. Sale's Danny Cipriani (2R) shows his improved defensive talents with tackle on Ashley Johnson (R)


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Ashley Johnson breaks through a tackle as Wasps dominated possession but couldn't capitalise


Joe Ledley is not known for his scoring prowess but the bearded wonder leaves Leicester rooted to the foot of the Premier League thanks to his second-half header. Boos rang out at the end after yet another decent performance had nothing to show for it. It was a statement of the obvious but Nigel Pearson’s programme notes confirmed it in black and white. The matches against the clubs hovering round the relegation zone ‘are the ones that will probably be decisive in our season.’ Joe Ledley, pictured with Brede Hangeland and James McArthur, slides on his knees after scoring what turned out to be the winning goal


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Joe Ledley applauds the travelling Crystal Palace supporters following his side's 1-0 victory