Cubs veteran Jon Lester to start World Series (AFP)

Jon Lester will be the Chicago Cubs starting pitcher in their opening World Series assignment against the Cleveland Indians, the team confirmed Monday. Lester, 32, is handed the pitching duties after a successful performance in the National League Championship Series win over the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he was named joint Most Valuable Player. The veteran left-hander is unbeaten in three previous World Series starts which included two wins in 2013 for the Boston Red Sox against the St. Louis Cardinals.