Host Tunisia selected Brazilian-born attacker Francileudo Silva Santos, who recently took up Tunisian nationality, in a 22-man squad named on Tuesday for the African Nations Cup. Half of the players picked by coach Roger Lemerre play in Europe. The competition starts later this month.

Sharks coach Kevin Putt has announced that lock Johann Ackerman will be training with the Sharks after being released from the Cats squad. The 33-year-old former Springbok lock (he played in eight Tests between 1996 and 2001) turned out for Griquas last season, where his career underwent a major rejuvenation.

The committee leading New York’s bid to host the 2012 Summer Olympics has sent its official reply to a bid questionnaire to the International Olympic Committee. The 65-page document outlines central themes including transportation, venue planning, security, accommodation and the environment.

Former England goalkeeper David Seaman announced his retirement from soccer on Tuesday. Seaman (40) has suffered from a recurring shoulder problem while playing with Premier League side Manchester City. He will be replaced at City by David James, who has also taken his England place.

Stephane Peterhansel stayed in control of the Dakar Rally thanks to his third-place finish in the 12th stage, which was won by fellow Frenchman Luc Alphand on Tuesday. Alphand, the 1997 World Cup alpine skiing champion, won the 213km special between Bobo and Dioulasso in a time of 1:54,53.

Former Champions League winners Real Madrid are set to receive €6-million (about R54-million) for a single game in South Africa, a club official confirmed on Tuesday. Real manager Jorge Valdano said the current Spanish champions will play a South African selection on March 2.

Sudanese government planes have bombed the town of Tine in Sudan’s western Darfur region, a diplomat in Chad said on Tuesday. ”The bombardment comes after an ultimatum made a few days ago by the Sudanese authorities, demanding that the town of Tine be evacuated,” the diplomat said.