Sharman (left) finished 0.12 seconds behind Turner in Delhi

England hurdler William Sharman says he could have won a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games but for his illness.

The 26-year-old finished second behind European Champion Andy Turner in Delhi.

The Corby athlete told BBC Radio Northampton: "I came down with some kind of virus. It was very upsetting after all the preparation we had done.

"I don't have a crystal ball but I like to think that the illness cost me a gold medal. Silver was the best I could do on the day."

He added: "All I can do is look forward to the World Championships in 2011."

Sharman has also shrugged off criticism from American rival David Oliver.

The Olympic and World Indoor bronze medallist disparaged his competition from Turner and Sharman shortly after running a 12.89 time at the Diamond League Paris in July.

Oliver told the Guardian in August that Sharman needed to be "more humble."

"[Sharman] talks like he's already run 12 seconds before, or he's won something," he said.

It's easy for David Oliver to look at people who are beneath him at the moment, but we're all coming for him William Sharman

"I don't like that. I don't know why he acts like he's doing something when he's only run 13.3. I think that really aggravates a lot of people. You need to be more humble."

Sharman hit back saying: "I don't really pay attention to what these other guys say. I'm not there to be liked, and it's the coaches you need to listen to.

"He's thinking about me and that's half the battle. It's easy for someone like Oliver to look at people who are beneath him at the moment, but we're all coming for him."

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