England join iPod revolution

GROS ISLET, St Lucia, March 13 (Reuters) England's cricket team are using an extra player to give them the edge in the World Cup -- an MP3 player.

Coaching staff have started loading bowling actions on to players' handheld iPod electrical gadgets so they can analyse both their own and opposition techniques.

The dull Caribbean wickets mean England's usual swing and seam attack must come up with new ways of getting batsmen out, such as bowling slower balls and off-cutters.

England bowler Liam Plunkett has been glued to the tiny iPod screen as he tries to learn some tips ahead of their opening Group C clash with New Zealand on Friday.

''I have to practise the next few days but it will be right for Friday,'' he told reporters today. ''My swing has been taken away from me.'' Reuters AD VP0040