Ex-champ Charr shot in Essen

BOXING: Former world heavyweight champion Manuel Charr is in hospital after being shot early yesterday morning in a kebab shop in Essen, Germany.

Medics said that Charr is not in any immediate danger after undergoing emergency surgery.

A friend of the boxer suggested to German newspaper Bild that Charr knew the attacker, who is being hunted by police.

Charr has lost three of his last five fights — most recently being knocked out by Mairis Briedis.

Hamilton calls time on internationals

RUGBY UNION: Lock Jim Hamilton said yesterday he is quitting Test rugby, 24 hours after missing out on Scotland’s World Cup squad.

The 32-year-old Saracens forward made his decision to retire after he failing to make Vern Cotter’s cut.

He was the 1,000th player to win Scotland honours when he made his debut against Romania in November 2006 and went on to win 63 caps, including appearances at both the 2007 and 2011 World Cups.

McIlroy given pass for Dubai

GOLF: World number one Rory McIlroy was given an exemption by the European Tour yesterday so he can play in the lucrative season-ending Race to Dubai.

An ankle injury cut short McIlroy’s schedule to the extent that he would not meet the 13-event qualification standard despite currently leading the rankings.

McIlroy has agreed with tour officials to play another three events, taking his total to 12.