The sporting week ahead (19/09/10)

Today

A rare day on the calendar when rugby league is interesting. St Helens have the very dubious honour of choosing who they play next in the play-offs. Their options? Really wind up arch-rivals Wigan by picking them, or antagonise Challenge Cup-winners (and sort-of rivals) Warrington. Expect Haile Gebrselassie to break the half-marathon record at the Great North Run, not through any great desire, simply because he's desperately trying to keep warm.

Tomorrow

The European Tour Operators Association are in London to assess the "impact of the Olympics on London tourism in 2012". I can save them time and money with my free four-word conclusion: "It will be good."

Tuesday

In the Carling Cup, the Bees will hope to lick the Toffees in a tasty tie, while there's a crackerjack north London derby between Spurs and Arsenal.

Wednesday

More romantic Carling Cup ties as Scunthorpe host Man United while the Cobblers of Northampton aim to trample over Liverpool. In the Scottish League Cup, expect Super Caley to go ballistic but will Celtic be atrocious?

Thursday

Floor me, exciting news in the world of bowls. I know jack about it but apparently Premier League bowls is in Cyprus today, taking place on an outdoor rink for the first time, no less. There you go, a plug for a minority sport – you can't accuse me of bias.

Friday

Cellar dwellers Pompey play Leicester while the Singapore sling/fling headlines will be rolled out as Lewis Hamilton and Co battle it out in practice at Marina Bay.

Saturday

Top-notch Prem action as Man City host Chelsea, with another cracker in store as West Ham host bitter rivals Spurs.