61.   Essex go into the final day of their dual with Kent at Ilford facing a tough battle to avoid defeat.

62.   Uruguay had to avoid a defeat to ensure they finished in fourth spot in the table and join Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay in the finals.

63.   Uruguay can fill the fourth qualifying spot by avoiding defeat in their last game against Brazil on Friday.

64.   Valencia trail by just two points but Atletico, who have a superior goal difference, only need to avoid defeat.

65.   With Croatian forward Alen Boksic suspended, the Zebras elected to soak up pressure and avoid defeat.

66.   Withdrawals at the Swedish, Swiss and All England championships threw up accusations that players were deliberately dropping out to avoid defeats.

67.   Juventus must do us a favour by avoiding defeat to Fenerbahce.

68.   Leaders Surrey could do with similar application if they are to avoid defeat against Warwickshire at Guildford.

69.   Pakistan face a big test of character in their bid to avoid outright defeat in the opening first-class clash of their Australian tour.

70.   Scotland must avoid defeat in Russia in March to keep alive their hopes of qualifying.