A round-up of today's other sports news

British rider dies after fallat Florida three-day event

EQUESTRIAN SPORT:One of Britain's most promising three-day event riders has died after falling off her horse during a competition in the US. Eleanor Brennan (21), who based herself in Virginia, was competing in the cross-country at the Florida International Three-Day Event and Ocala Fall Horse Trials on Saturday when her mount, Mr Barnabus, stumbled at a jump and landed on top of her.

Brennan sustained head and chest injuries and died shortly afterwards at Munroe Regional Medical Center, according to event organisers. Her horse was killed instantly.

A statement from the United States Equestrian Federation and the Florida Horse Park said: "We regret to report that Eleanor Brennan died as a result of injuries sustained in a fall on cross-country at the Florida International Three-Day Event and Ocala Fall Horse Trials in Ocala, Florida.

"The United States Equestrian Federation and the Florida Horse Park wish to extend their deepest condolences to Ms Brennan's family and friends."

Event organisers said Mr Barnabus struck a gate while attempting to clear a fence and rolled over on to its neck, trapping Brennan underneath. "It's a tragic experience for all of us," said Tom Warriner, chairman of the Florida Horse Park where the event was being staged.

Brennan's death is the second at the event, with another rider killed in a fall in 2006.

Whelan unable to give full commitment and calls it a day

CRICKET:Irish cricket suffered a blow yesterday with the announcement that opening bowler Roger Whelan has retired from all forms of the game, writes Emmet Riordan.

The 27-year-old Railway Union player has been involved with the senior set-up for six years, but only picked up three international caps in that time, all coming this season.

A stand-by player for the World Cup, Whelan was given his senior debut by coach Phil Simmons against Essex in the Friends Provident Trophy in May, taking the wicket of England international Ravi Bopara.

Against India at Stormont in June he took the prized scalp of Sachin Tendulkar in his one day international debut.

Explaining his decision yesterday, Whelan said: "The main reason is commitment. I have been involved with the Irish squad for the best part of six years and I have always given 100 per cent throughout. I no longer feel I can give that same commitment; therefore it would be unfair to the other squad members, Trent (Johnston, Irish captain) and Phil (Simmons) to continue.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed all my cricketing experiences and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who helped me along the way, especially all the coaches that worked with me over the years and everyone at Railway Union. I wish Trent and the Irish lads the best of luck in the future." n

Robinson gets Scotland role

RUGBY:Former England coach Andy Robinson is returning to international rugby with the Scotland A team. Edinburgh coach Robinson will team up with his Glasgow Warriors counterpart Sean Lineen to take charge of the Scottish second string this season, as both men combine the role with their club duties.

Robinson insists his priorities will lie with Scotland if his new charges face England A at next summer's Churchill Cup.

He said: "I'm there to prepare a side to win a game and that's what I'll do."

The role will be strictly part-time, with Scotland A having only two matches lined up in the next six months - they face Italy A and Ireland A in February.

Alonso set to rejoin Renault

MOTOR SPORT:Double Formula One world champion Fernando Alonso is almost certain to rejoin Renault next season, team boss Flavio Briatore said yesterday. Spaniard Alonso split with McLaren this month after a bitter and controversial season where he finished third in the drivers championship. "Renault will definitely have different drivers next year. There is a 60 per cent chance Alonso will be with us," Briatore said.

Briatore's words appear to spell the end at Renault for drivers Giancarlo Fisichella and Heikki Kovalainen. "We have an advantage (in taking Alonso) because we know him. Between today and the day after tomorrow it will be decided," Italian Briatore added.