NNBABA | Page 5 Sixers down Bucks despite Giannis’ 52

Tuesday, March 19, 2019 GOLF Rajab 12, 1440 AH McIlroy wins Players GULF TIMES Championship by one stroke in Florida SPORT Page 2

SPOTLIGHT Coe, Dahlan to open IAAF exhibition in Doha

AAF President Sebastian Coe Olympic Games in 776 BC. The story room where longer championship be one of the featured items in the and Dahlan al-Hamad, IAAF is carried through to the fi rst modern highlights will be screened, will off er “IAAF Heritage World Athletics Vice President and Director Gen- Olympic Games of 1896, the founda- plenty of competition footage from Championships Exhibition”, a six- eral of the IAAF World Athlet- tion of the IAAF in 1912 and to crea- world championships history. month display which will open in Iics Championships Doha 2019 Local tion of the IAAF World Champion- Along with interactive features, Doha on 18 April. Organising Committee, will open the ships in 1983. there will be plenty of variety for all IAAF Heritage Exhibition at the City At the heart of the exhibition are ages of visitors to enjoy and explore “I’m really pleased that my career Center Doha on April 18. 10 huge display panels summarising in the exhibition which will run until will be permanently represented in The exhibition will feature the the history of the 16 editions of the the 7 October, the day after the end of the IAAF Heritage Collection,” said world’s largest ever display of athlet- IAAF World Athletics Champion- the IAAF World Athletics Champi- Eliud Kipchoge, who has also given a ics artefacts and memorabilia, dating ships. Additional specialised displays onships Doha 2019. signed copy of the book detailing his from 2nd Century BC to the present include the histories of the six conti- Reigning Olympic champion and world record run in Berlin. day. nental Areas, Qatari athletics and the world marathon record holder Eliud “My running career has still far to In text, photographic and video development of ASICS spikes. There Kipchoge of Kenya has donated one go but I’m proud to donate one of my displays, the exhibition succinctly is also a preview of the IAAF World of the shoes in which he sped to vic- shoes from my Rio victory to be pre- tells the story of the sport’s 3,000- Athletics Championships Doha 2019 tory in the Rio 2016 Olympic Games served for future generations of fans year history. accompanied by a Seiko countdown marathon. and publicly displayed. I hope it helps Introductory displays cover ath- clock and QNB display. Six video The winning left shoe of the 2018 to motivate more people to take up Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya has donated one of the shoes in which he sped to victory in the letics as it emerged from the ancient screens, including a small cinema IAAF World Athlete of the Year will the wonderful sport of running.” Rio 2016 Olympic Games marathon. PICTURE: Giancarlo Colombo

CRICKET Afghanistan make history with Test win over Ireland Rahmat Shah and Ihsanullah Janat scored fifties as Afghanistan chased down 147 with seven wickets to spare

AFP Dehradun, India

fghanistan claimed their fi rst ever victory in Test cricket yesterday, beating fellow new- comers Ireland in what captain AsgharA Afghan hailed as a historic day for the war-torn country. Afghanistan and Ireland both achieved full mem- ber status of the International Cricket Council in 2017, becoming only the 11th and 12th teams to play the long format of the sport beloved of purists. Rahmat Shah and Ihsanullah Janat scored fi fties as Afghanistan chased down 147 to beat Ireland by seven wick- ets on day four of the one-off game in the north Indian city of Dehradun. “It’s a historic day for Afghanistan, for our team and our people,” Afghan said. “We have been playing for a while, we have been playing fi rst-class cricket, so we have that composure. The bowlers were very good, Rashid (Khan), Yamin (Ahmadzai),” he added. Afghanistan were steered to their target by a 139-run partnership between Shah, who made 76, and debutant Janat, who hit an unbeaten 65. Shah, a top-order batsman, regis- tered his second fi fty of the match after making 98 in Afghanistan’s fi rst innings score of 314. With three needed to win, Afghanistan lost Shah and then Moham- mad Nabi in successive deliveries be- fore Hashmatullah Shahidi came to the crease and hit the winning boundary. “I want to congratulate all the lads in the team, they have been absolutely brilliant,” said Afghan. “We have got a few games before the World Cup and we want to make every opportunity count,” the captain added. Cricket has become the national sport of Afghanistan, torn apart by decades of war, with many of the Afghan players cutting their cricketing teeth in refugee camps in Pakistan. The country gained Afghanistan players pose with the trophy after winning the one-off Test match against Ireland in the northern Indian city of Dehradun yesterday. (AFP) one-day international status in 2009 and have qualifi ed for their second 50- in the Ireland game, taking fi ve wickets Test against Pakistan in Dublin last year, SCOREBOARD over World Cup in England and Wales, on Sunday as Ireland were dismissed for losing by fi ve wickets. due to begin on May 30. 288. Khan returned career-best fi gures For Ireland, Tim Murtagh stood out IRELAND I INNINGS 172 M. Nabi run out (Murtagh/Poynter) 1 Salamkheil They have also been part of four of fi ve for 82 with his leg-spin to stall with scores of 54 not out and 27 batting AFGHANISTAN I INNINGS 314 H. Shahidi not out 4 Bowling: Dockrell 22-7-58-0 (w1), Mc- Twenty20 World Cups. They have made Ireland’s resurgence after Andy Balbirnie at number 11. “It’s been a long tour, but IRELAND II INNINGS 288 Extras (w1) 1 Brine 13-5-35-1, Cameron-Dow 5.5-0-24-1, India their base since 2015, far away from and Kevin O’Brien had hit gritty half- the lads have been very good. You are Murtagh 5-3-15-0, Thompson 1-0-9-0, the guns and bombs of their home coun- centuries in their second innings. never tired to play Test cricket, it’s al- AFGHANISTAN SECOND INNINGS Total (3 wickets, 47.5 overs) 149 Balbirnie 1-0-8-0 try. Last year they made the leap to Test Balbirnie made 82 and O’Brien 56 be- ways a special feeling,” said Ireland cap- (target 147; overnight 29-1) Fall of wickets: 1-5 (Shahzad), Result: Afghanistan win by 7 wickets cricket, taking on India in Bangalore, but fore a 10th-wicket 58-run partnership tain William Porterfi eld. M. Shahzad c Poynter b McBrine 2 2-144 (Shah), 3-145 (Nabi) were thrashed inside two days. Khan, between James Cameron-Dow and Tim Ireland lost the two Twenty20 match- Umpires: Richard Illingworth (ENG), the Indian Premier League (IPL) sensa- Murtagh set up the potentially tricky es at the start of the series between the I. Janat not out 65 Did not bat: A. Afghan, I.A. Khil, R. Sundaram Ravi (IND) Khan, Y. Ahmadzai, W. Momand, W. tion who is second in the ICC one-day chase for the Afghans. It was Ireland’s two minnows and then levelled the one- R. Shah st Poynter b Cameron-Dow 76 Match Referee: Javagal Srinath (IND) international rankings, played a key role second Test too. They played their debut day internationals at 2-2. Gulf Times 2 Tuesday, March 19, 2019 SPORT

TENNIS Andreescu stuns Kerber to win Indian Wells title AFP ing and challenger circuit wins – but Sun- pecially the last three games,” Kerber said. Indian Wells, United States day’s triumph was a cut above. Andreescu’s run to the fi nal included She had held for 2-1 in the third when rallying from 3-1 down in the third set she received treatment on her right arm to beat Irina-Camelia Begu in the fi rst anadian sensation Bianca An- and shoulder and looked to be fl agging round and a 6-0, 6-1 rout of former world dreescu became the fi rst wild when she was broken in the fi fth game. number one Garbine Muguruza of Spain, card to win the WTA title at Indi- Urged by her coach at the change over with a three-set win over sixth-ranked an Wells on Sunday with a gritty to push through, Andreescu dug deep. Elina Svitolina putting her into the title 6-4,C 3-6, 6-4 victory over Wimbledon “After I spoke to my coach I just let it all match. champion Angelique Kerber. out there,” she said. “I was really tired, so She showed no sign of nerves as she Andreescu, 18, shook off fatigue and I went for my shots more,and that obvi- opened the match with a break of Ker- rallied from a break down in the third set ously worked. ber’s serve. It would be all she needed to to topple the eighth-ranked German, who “The next couple games I did the same take the set without facing a break point hasn’t won a title since she beat Serena thing. And I just fought till the end, be- herself. Williams in last year’s Wimbledon fi nal cause physically I wasn’t feeling too well. Kerber’s consistency and power from for her third Grand Slam crown. I fought till the end. I managed to pull the baseline kept the less predictable An- Ranked 60th coming into the tourna- through.” dreescu at bay in the second. The German ment, Andreescu will rise to 24th in the She broke Kerber in the next game, came up with a massive hold for 2-1, saving world with her fi rst WTA title. When taking a 15-30 lead with a lovely drop two break points before taking a 3-1 lead she fi nally converted her fourth match shot-lob combination, and giving herself with her fi rst break of the Andreescu serve point she kissed the sun-baked court and a break point with an overhead winner and from there forced the decisive set. fl opped spread-eagled on her back. before converting with another forehand Andreescu follows in the footsteps of “If you believe in yourself, anything is winner to launch a run of three straight 2018 champion Naomi Osaka, who won possible,” Andreescu said as she hoisted games for a 5-3 lead. her fi rst WTA title at Indian Wells to the crystal trophy as the youngest player Andreescu had to call on her last re- launch a stellar season that has seen her ever to win one of the WTA’s prestigious serves as Kerber saved three match points capture the US Open and Australian Open Premier Mandatory tournaments. in the next game on the way to earning a titles and rise to number one in the world. “It’s crazy. Crazy is the word of the break. She becomes the fourth unseeded tournament for me. Just crazy.” But Andreescu broke Kerber for the champion after Serena Williams in 1999, It’s another giant step in a breakout third time in the set to seal the victory, Kim Clijsters in 2005 and Osaka. season for Andreescu, who fi nished 2018 giving herself a break point with a blister- “Naomi did this last year,” Andreescu ranked 178th in the world. ing forehand before Kerber ended things said. “Now to be able to have my name She has racked up 28 match wins in with a ball into the net. beside so many amazing champions it Bianca Andreescu poses with the championship trophy after defeating Angelique Kerber (not pictured) in the final of 2019 across all levels, including qualify- “She did a good job then at the end, es- means the world to me.” the BNP Paribas Open at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

GOLF FOCUS Team Sky can extend dominance under McIlroy clinches new owners: Wiggins

AFP Wiggins Show on Eurosport. London “I think he would have been reluctant to have another mul- tinational company that came ormer Tour de France in that wanted it for the adver- Players by 1 stroke winner Bradley Wig- tisement and to get their name gins says Team Sky can out there, but would want the ‘There’s a little disappointment, thinking maybe I played well enough to win’ maintain their domi- control in terms of ‘This is how nanceF of cycling’s Grand Tour we want to do it in terms of how Reuters events under prospective new we advertise our company’. Miami owners, with general manager “Dave can continue run- Dave Brailsford in an “ideal ning out this team with all his situation”. plans and philosophies, so it’s ory McIlroy celebrated The media giant announced an ideal situation for him and St Patrick’s Day in style in December it would be end- he is answerable you’d imagine by becoming the fi rst ing its decade-long associa- to one man – it’s his money. It player from North- tion with the team at the end will certainly help that team.” ernR Ireland to win the Players of 2019, with eight Grand Tour Team Sky’s partnership with Championship, emerging as the victories secured so far. British media company Sky has last man standing to beat Jim Fu- Widespread reports have delivered six Tour de France ti- ryk by one stroke in Ponte Vedra, suggested Britain’s richest man tles in the past seven years. Florida on Sunday. Jim Ratcliff e, with an estimated Wiggins became Britain’s On a day when 15 players at fortune of £21 billion ($28 bil- fi rst Tour de France champion one stage were within two shots lion), will step in and create in 2012 before Chris Froome of the lead, McIlroy eventually Team Ineos, after the chemicals won four Tour de France titles emerged from the pack, over- giant that he founded, and Wig- and Geraint Thomas became coming an early double-bogey gins believes they will continue Sky’s third winner of cycling’s by displaying enough maturity to thrive under Brailsford. landmark event in 2018. to hang tough before moving in “Dave will want to retain But amid Sky’s success, for the proverbial kill. control and it is Dave’s way in there has been controversy McIlroy carded two-under- terms of the way he manages over the team’s use of spe- par 70 at the famous TPC Saw- the team, the way he sets the cial exemptions to administer grass course in Ponte Vedra team up,” the Olympic gold drugs that can enhance per- Beach to win a championship medallist told The Bradley formance. that was fi rst held in 1974, when it was won by Jack Nicklaus. McIlroy fi nished at 16-under 272 to edge American Furyk, who Tour de France to get off to hilly start with a gimme birdie at the fi nal The 2020 Tour de France will get off to a hilly start with two hole threatened to become the stages around Nice, organisers said yesterday. The opening stage event’s oldest winner at the age will be a 170-km ride around the Azurean city but is expected to of 48. be decided in a bunch sprint finish. It will serve as a warm-up for “Sawgrass and I didn’t have the 190-km trek featuring three climbs with the overall contend- the greatest relationship start- ers expected to already be at their best. ing off ,” McIlroy told report- The peloton will tackle the Col de Colmiane before the Col de ers, referring to missed cuts in Turini and the Col d’Eze. his fi rst three appearances from The Col de Turini featured in this year’s edition of Paris-Nice while 2009-11. the Col d’Eze is a regular on the ‘Race to the Sun’. “It’s a massive win on a course The 2020 Tour will be held from June 27-July 19. (where) I’ve had mixed results. I had to show a lot of character out there. Any time I looked at the leaderboard I was pleasantly CYCLING surprised I hadn’t fallen two or three shots behind. “That gave me a little bit of encouragement to keep going Alaphilippe sprints and play a great back nine. I am just thankful that it was my turn this week.” to sixth stage win With Furyk already in the clubhouse, the 29-year-old AFP RESULTS McIlroy knew what he had to Milan Stage do as he played the fi nal three 1. Julian Alaphilippe (FRA/DEC) holes. 4hr 42min 11sec, 2. Davide After a birdie at the par-four rance’s Julian Alap- Cimolai (ITA/ICA) same time, 15th, he used his power to reach hilippe won a bunch 3. Elia Viviani (ITA/DEC) s.t., 4. the par-fi ve 16th in two shots sprint in yesterday’s Clement Venturini (FRA/ALM) and a two-putt birdie gave him sixth and penultimate s.t., 5. Peter Sagan (SVK/BOR) the lead. stageF of the Tirreno-Adriatico s.t., 6. Maximiliano Richeze McIlroy then safely negotiated Cycling race over 195km from (ARG/DEC) s.t., 7. Jens Keuke- the water-lined fi nal two holes Rory McIlroy celebrates winning the Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass – Stadium Course in Florida. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Matelica to Jesi. leire (BEL/LOT) s.t., 8. Greg Van with tap-in pars to clinch the The 26-year-old crossed Avermaet (BEL/CCC) s.t., 9. most prestigious tournament (66) and Venezuelan Jhonattan LEADING SCORES grand slam of all four modern ahead of Italians Davide Cimo- Reinardt Janse Van Rensburg outside the four majors. Vegas (66) fi nished two strokes majors. lai (Israel Cycling Academy) (RSA/DDT) s.t., 10. Simone Furyk shot 67 to fi nish alone behind McIlroy in a tie for third. 272-Rory McIlroy (NIR) 67-65-70-70 “I’m just really proud of my- and Deceuninck-QuickStep Consonni (ITA/UAE) s.t. on 15-under. Pepperrell and Vegas sank 273-Jim Furyk 71-64-71-67 self the way I played the last few teammate Elia Viviani, who monster birdies at the par- 274-Eddie Pepperell (ENG) 72-68-68-66, Jhonattan Vegas (VEN) 72-69- holes,” he said. were second and third respec- Overall FURYK DISAPPOINTED three 17th, Pepperell sinking a 67-66 “(I was thinking) why not me? tively. It was the second win 1. Adam Yates (GBR/MIT) 25hr “There’s a little disappointment, rollercoaster 50-footer before 275-Dustin Johnson 69-68-69-69, Brandt Snedeker 69-72-65-69, This is my tournament and I’ve for Alaphilippe after his stage 15min 59sec, 2. Primoz Roglic thinking maybe I played well Vegas one-upped him with a Tommy Fleetwood (ENG) 65-67-70-73 got to fi nish it off . two triumph. (SLO/JUM) at 25sec, 3. Jakob enough to win,” said the Ameri- 70-footer. 276-Hideki Matsuyama (JPN) 71-72-66-67, Justin Rose (ENG) 74-66- 68- “I kept telling myself on the Britain’s Adam Yates of Fuglsang (DEN/AST) 35, 4. Tom can. Overnight leader Jon Rahm 68, Brian Harman 66-69-71-70, Jason Day (AUS) 70-66-68-72 way to the 17th tee, just make Mitchelton-Scott holds the Dumoulin (NED/SUN) 1:55, 5. “Rory obviously felt diff erently.” fl oundered, the Spaniard mak- 277-Adam Scott (AUS) 70-69-68-70, Joel Dahmen 69-71-67-70, Abraham three more good swings, that’s leader’s blue jersey going into Julian Alaphilippe (FRA/DEC) It was Furyk’s 31st runner-up ing three bogeys in the fi rst four Ancer (MEX) 69-66-70-72, Jon Rahm (ESP) 69-68-64-76. all you need to do and this thing today’s fi nal stage in the ‘Race 2:24, 6. Wout Poels (NED/SKY) fi nish on the PGA Tour, the same holes and compounding his is yours. of the Two Seas’. 2:39, 7. Thibaut Pinot (FRA/ number as Tiger Woods who has misery by dunking his tee shot 12th on 11-under. He will head to the Masters “To step up and make those The seventh stage is a quick FDJ) 2:46, 8. Sam Oomen also won 80 times compared to into the water at the par-three McIlroy’s win came after close next month brimming with con- three good swings, it’s very sat- 10km individual time-trial (NED/SUN) 2:58, 9. Simon his compatriot’s 17. 17th. calls at all fi ve of his previous fi dence, needing a victory at Au- isfying knowing that it’s in there down the fl at Adriatic seafront Clarke (AUS/EF1) 3:03, 10. Rui Englishman Eddie Pepperell He shot 76 and fi nished equal starts this year. gusta National to complete the when it needs to be.” at San Benedetto del Tronto. Costa (POR/UAE) 3:26. Gulf Times Tuesday, March 19, 2019 3 SPORT

TENNIS Thiem rallies to deny Federer sixth Indian Wells title ‘I came from a really bad form in all categories, and now I’m the champion of Indian Wells. It feels not real at all’

AFP Indian Wells, United States Dominic Thiem of Austria poses with the trophy after his victory in the Indian Wells ominic Thiem denied Roger Masters in California on Sunday. (AFP) Federer a record sixth In- dian Wells title, beating the Swiss great 3-6, 6-3, 7-5 on SundayD to claim his fi rst ATP Masters 1000 crown. The 25-year-old Austrian, ranked eighth in the world, had fallen in two prior Masters fi nals, both in Ma- drid. But he rallied for a third career win over Federer in fi ve meetings, his fi rst over the Swiss on hard courts. “It feels just unreal what happened in this 10 days,” Thiem said. “I came from a really bad form in all categories, and now I’m the champion of Indian Wells. “It feels not real at all,” added Thiem, the fi rst Austrian to win a masters 1000 title since Thomas Muster at Miami in 1997. Thiem earned the crucial break in the 11th game of the fi nal set, connecting on two sharply angled passing winners off of Federer drop shots to give himself a break point which he converted with a stinging forehand winner. “He stayed cool under pressure there,” Federer said. “When he got up to the ball, stayed calm, made the shot.” Thiem sealed the match after two hours and two minutes when Fed- erer’s backhand found the net and will now return to a career-high ranking of fourth in the world, bumping Federer down to fi fth. It was the second year in a row that Federer was denied in the In- dian Wells fi nal. In 2018 he missed out on three championship points as he fell Roger Federer of Switzerland acknowledges the crowd after to Argentina’s Juan Martin del Potro in receiving the runners up trophy. (AFP) the title match. Federer, fresh off a remarkable 100th before Thiem clawed a break back, but career title in Dubai, remains tied Federer responded with another hard- THIEM LEAPFROGS FEDERER IN ATP RANKINGS with Novak Djokovic for the most In- won break for a 5-3 lead and captured dian Wells victories with fi ve. Thiem the set with a service winner. Paris: Dominic Thiem climbed to a career-best rank- Top 1O ATP rankings: 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 10,990 Kerber moved up four places to fourth as Naomi claimed his 12th career title — as he Coming into the contest Federer had ing of fourth on Monday after clinching his maiden pts; 2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 8,725; 3. Alexander Zverev Osaka stayed top of the pile despite crashing out in noted at the trophy ceremony when he won 20 straight fi nals when claiming ATP Masters title with his defeat of Roger Federer at (GER) 6,630; 4. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 4,755 (+4); 5. the last 16 in a failed title defence. Simona Halep, who acknowledged Federer. the opening set. But Thiem was not Indian Wells. Austrian Thiem, who was also briefly Roger Federer (SUI) 4,600 (-1); 6. Kei Nishikori (JPN) also lost in the fourth round, slipped from second to “I think it’s not my right to congrat- about to go quietly, saving break points ranked fourth in the world in late 2017, rose four 4,235 (+1); 7. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 4,115 (-1); 8. Juan third as the Romanian was replaced by Petra Kvitova. ulate you, you have 88 more titles than for a 2-1 lead in the second and break- places after beating Federer 3-6, 6-3, 7-5 on Sunday Martin del Potro (ARG) 3,585 (-3); 9. John Isner (USA) Belinda Bencic continued her resurgence as she me,” Thiem told Federer as he accepted ing for a 3-1 lead as the Swiss suddenly to deny the Swiss star a record sixth Indian Wells 3,485; 10. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 3,160 broke back into the top 20 after reaching the Indian the trophy, calling it a privilege to play couldn’t put a fi rst serve in. crown. Federer, 37, dropped one spot to fifth as the Wells semi-finals, a run that included a victory over against the 37-year-old superstar. “I think that was a really important top three remained unchanged with Novak Djokovic ANDREESCU SOARS AFTER Osaka. The 21-year-old Swiss won her first title in four “It’s tough against Roger, Rafa (Nad- fi ve minutes in the match,” Federer ahead of Rafael Nadal and Alexander Zverev despite BREAKTHROUGH TRIUMPH years at Dubai last month after a string of injuries al), Novak (Djokovic),” Thiem said. said. “It was crucial.” the Serb’s third-round exit in California. Canadian teenager Bianca Andreescu rocketed up and a slump in form threatened to derail her career. “Because you have to beat not only the A hold at love put Thiem up 4-1 and Nadal, who pulled out of his semi-final with Fed- 36 places to a new best of 24th in the WTA rankings player but somehow also the great aura on the way to forcing the third set. Fe- erer due to a knee injury, will skip this week’s Miami a day after her historic triumph at Indian Wells. The TOP 10 WTA RANKINGS: 1. Naomi Osaka (JPN) 5,991 they all have, all these titles they have derer said it wasn’t a defeat that would Masters as he targets a return to competition for the 18-year-old Andreescu beat Germany’s Angelique pts; 2. Petra Kvitova (CZE) 5,550 (+1); 3. Simona Halep won. “So you have to play somehow fester. “I had my chances. I was in the clay-court season. Kerber in Sunday’s final to become the first women’s (ROU) 5,457 (-1); 4. Angelique Kerber (GER) 5,315 (+4); double-good to beat them.” points,” he said. “That’s why I’m not Juan Martin del Potro dropped three spots to wildcard to win the Indian Wells title. 5. Elina Svitolina (UKR) 5,225 (+1); 6. Sloane Stephens Thiem was under attack early, saving too disappointed. I feel like he had to eighth after he was unable to defend his Indian Wells Andreescu, with just one Grand Slam main draw (USA) 5,222 (-2)’ 7. Karolina Pliskova (CZE) 5,145 (-2); three break points before succumbing come up with the goods... (I) just came crown because of a knee problem. The Argentine will victory to date, continued her meteoric rise having 8. Kiki Bertens (NED) 4,995 (-1); 9. Aryna Sabalenka on a fourth in the second game as Fed- up against somebody who was on the also miss the Miami event. been ranked 243rd as recently as last October. (BLR) 3,620; 10. Serena Williams (USA) 3,406 erer raced to a 3-0 lead. Federer led 4-1 day a bit better when it really mattered.”

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS PSL success boosts Pakistan’s cricket revival No complacency on AFP Karachi World Cup security,

ll future Pakistan Super League says Richardson matches could be played on home soil after the last eight AFP the work has already been done games of the 2019 tournament Karachi by the security director together wentA off without a hitch in Karachi, with all the security agencies in boosting hopes of attracting more inter- the UK and they are leaving no national teams, said the country’s cricket he deadly New Zealand stone unturned,” he added. chief at Sunday’s fi nal. Quetta Gladia- shootings which Bangla- Richardson said Pakistan had tors beat former champions Peshawar desh cricketers narrowly taken “a great step forward” in Zalmi by eight wickets on Sunday to lift avoided means security safely hosting the PSL matches, a their maiden PSL title in a pulsating at- Twill remain an “absolute priori- decade on from an attack on the mosphere created by a capacity crowd of ty” going into the World Cup, the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore 32,000 fans at the National stadium. head of cricket’s governing body which has seen foreign teams “Today is a historic day,” said Pakistan said on Sunday. refuse to play in the country over Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ehsan Fifty people died in attacks on security fears. Mani at the closing ceremony on Sunday. two mosques in Christchurch on Pakistan has gradually tried “Around 230,000 people have watched Friday, in what is believed to be to revive international cricket at matches in Karachi which indicates that the worst assault on Muslims in home, having hosted the fi nals Pakistan is a safe country and we are a Western country. Bangladesh’s of Pakistan Super League for the gradually returning to normal as far as Test cricketers were just a few last two years and played match- hosting cricket is concerned.” minutes from being caught up in es against a World XI, Sri Lanka Sri Lanka are in discussions about the massacre, arriving in a bus at and the West Indies. This year playing two Tests in Pakistan in October one of the mosques as shooting eight PSL matches were hosted and talks are also taking place with Bang- began. in Karachi without incident and ladesh about a tour in early 2020. “I thank The third Test between Bang- Richardson, a former South Af- all the foreign players who came here and ladesh and New Zealand which rican player, said it was helping I hope to see them here for all the PSL was due to start in Wellington on to change the image of Pakistan. matches next year,” said Mani. Saturday was cancelled and the “The perception outside of Peshawar were restricted to 138 for team returned home. Speaking Pakistan was that it was quite a eight in their 20 overs. Umar Amin top on the sidelines of Pakistan Su- dangerous place to visit in the scored with 38, while rookie 18-year-old Quetta Gladiators players celebrate after winning the Pakistan Super League at the National Stadium in Karachi on Sunday. (AFP) per League (PSL) fi nal in Karachi, past and that perception slowly quick bowler Mohamed Husnain fi nished the International Cricket Coun- but surely has been changed,” with three for 30. Quetta raced to victory against a World XI and a single Twenty20 we are ready to host more cricket.” Watson said he had enjoyed playing for cil (ICC) chief executive David he said. He said a recent tour with eight wickets and 13 balls to spare as international all in Lahore in 2017. Cricket-starved fans thronged the the fi rst time in Pakistan, a country where Richardson said security had to by 43 foreign players, includ- former Pakistan opener Ahmed Shehzad Last year Pakistan hosted three PSL National Stadium for all eight matches, Australia have not toured since 1998 over remain “an absolute priority”. ing former Australia all-rounder (57) and Rilee (38) put on an unbroken 73- matches and the West Indies for a Twen- putting up with tight security checks and security fears. “It’s incredibly special to “I don’t think security is any- Shane Watson and current New run stand to see the Gladiators home at ty20 series. This year 43 foreign players, long walks after shuttles dropped them a be able to play in front of incredible at- thing new, obviously something Zealand opener Colin Munro, re- 139 for two. including former Australia all-rounder mile (1.6 kilometres) away from the sta- mosphere and fans,” said Watson. happening in New Zealand prob- fl ected the changes Pakistan has The fi rst 26 round-robin matches were Shane Watson and current New Zealand dium with 13,000 policemen and 2,500 Losing skipper and former West In- ably took a lot of people by sur- made. held in the United Arab Emirates, which opener Colin Munro, took part in the PSL military personnel deployed dies captain Darren Sammy described the prise and it emphasised the need Trust over security has “in- has been Pakistan’s neutral venue since a latter stages in Karachi. “Pakistan is a peaceful country,” said atmosphere as “electric.” “I have never not to be complacent, especially creased tremendously,” he add- deadly attack on the Sri Lankan team bus “I thank the people for coming in big one banner in the Imran Khan stand, played in such an atmosphere,” said Sam- going into the World Cup,” Rich- ed. However, last month Cricket in Lahore 10 years ago. Pakistan hosted numbers,” Pakistan and Quetta captain named after the former World Cup win- my, who led West Indies to two World ardson said. Australia acted on their govern- Zimbabwe for fi ve limited-over matches Sarfraz Ahmed said at the pre-match ning skipper and current Pakistan prime Twenty20 titles in 2012 and 2016. “This The England and Wales Crick- ment’s advice not to tour Paki- in 2015 which was followed by the PSL toss. “We have sent a clear message that minister who last week pledged to hold all proves that Pakistan is ready for more et Board will host the World Cup stan, where no Australian senior fi nal, three Twenty20 internationals Pakistan is passionate about cricket and PSL matches on home grounds next year. cricket.” from May 30 to July 14. “I know team has played since 1998. Gulf Times 4 Tuesday, March 19, 2019 SPORT

QATAR NATIONAL ARABIAN HORSE SHOW

Connections pose with the trophy after Al Sraiya Stud’s Batal Al Shahania won Class 5A for two-year-old Colts at the 7th Qatar National Arabian Horse Show for Individual Owners at Al Shaqab Indoor Arena yesterday. At right, connections with the trophy after Fahad Meqbil al-Qahtani’s Bahi Alsafinat won Class 4B for Yearling Colts yesterday. PICTURES: Juhaim

FORMULA ONE FOCUS New Zealand’s Crusaders to mull Revitalised Bottas name change aft er mosque massacre

AFP South Island and are the most lets rip at critics successful team in Super Rug- Christchurch by, the southern hemisphere club competition, with nine ‘Obviously there are many people who support you, and honestly I appreciate that’ ew Zealand’s Can- titles. Their name was chosen terbury Crusaders in 1996. AFP rugby team said they “Among others in the mix Melbourne would consult with of potential names were the Nthe Muslim community about Plainsmen but the powers that a potential change of name af- be believed the name Crusad- altteri Bottas says ter criticism following Friday’s ers refl ected the crusading something changed massacre at two mosques in spirit of Canterbury rugby,” “inside his head” after their home city of Christch- the team website says. Vbeing overshadowed by urch. Former Test cricketer teammate Lewis Hamilton last The name of the reigning Mark Richardson said he fi rst year, with the fi red-up Finn un- Super Rugby champions has thought that ditching the loading on his critics after win- been questioned in the past, Crusaders’ name would be an ning the Australian Grand Prix. but the club said “we under- “over-reaction”, but had since The 29-year-old Mercedes ace, stand the concerns that have had a change of heart. hampered by mechanical prob- been raised” after the mass “When I fi rst read that, I lems and bad luck, failed to win shooting, which left 50 people thought, ‘for goodness sake’,” a single race in 2018 as the Briton dead. he said on New Zealand’s stormed to 11 victories and se- Distinctive writing on the Three TV channel. cured a fi fth world title. attacker’s weaponry included “But then I thought noth- It sparked criticism of his abili- the names of historical fi gures ing is an over-reaction when ties, which clearly irked Bottas from the Crusades, the reli- it comes to trying to make who let rip on the team radio after gious wars waged by European amends and be understand- crossing the fi nish line in Mel- Christians against Muslims ing.” bourne for his fi rst chequered fl ag for control of the Holy Land in One of the Crusaders’ best- since Abu Dhabi in 2017. the Middle Ages. known former players is Sonny “To whom it may concern, “In terms of the Crusaders Bill Williams, who converted ****you,” he said after beating name, we understand the con- to Islam in 2009 and remains Hamilton by almost 21 seconds, cerns that have been raised,” the only Muslim to play for with the nearest Ferrari of Sebas- chief executive Colin Mans- the All Blacks, as the rugby- tian Vettel 57 seconds adrift. bridge said in a statement. mad country’s national team He explained later that the “In our view, this is a con- is known. comment was inspired by the versation that we should have Williams, who currently non-believers, who he wouldn’t and we are taking on board all plays for the Auckland Blues, identity but that “it would be of the feedback that we are broadcast a tearful Twitter quite a long list”. receiving, however, we also stream on Friday lamenting “It just came, I just wanted to Mercedes’ Finnish driver Valtteri Bottas believe that the time for that is the attacks. send my best regards,” he told celebrates after winning the Formula One not right now,” he added. Similar debates have raged reporters. “That’s it. Honestly, Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on Sunday. “At an appropriate time, we in the United States over the I didn’t think about it or plan will thoroughly consider the names of sports teams with it, it just came. Obviously there issues that have been raised Native American associa- are many people who support and our response to that. That tions, such as the Washington you, and honestly I appreciate will include conversations Redskins, Atlanta Braves and that a lot. There are many people as a person, you learn about your- going on here last winter, in- let Bottas take the lead at the fi rst have some work to do,” he said. with a range of people, includ- Cleveland Indians. around me, supporting me. self, what works for you, what side of my head, and defi nitely corner. “Ultimately I didn’t do a “But it’s still a great start to the ing our Muslim community.” Peter Lineham, a histo- “There are always ups and doesn’t work for you in terms of something changed in terms of good enough job,” he said. year and more than we could have The Crusaders’ logo fea- rian at New Zealand’s Massey downs, and you can really see preparation,” he said. the way I feel about things in life Reports suggested Mercedes hoped as a team.” tures a knight holding a sword, University, said the Crusaders the true support quite easily. And “How you rest, how you in general and in racing.”While had discovered damage to the For pre-season favourites Fer- and pre-match entertainment name should never have been then through the diffi cult times spend your free time, how you Bottas drew fi rst blood against fl oor of his car, possibly caused by rari it was a rude wake-up call, at home games usually fea- chosen in the fi rst place. there’s the other part, which is a do the training, how much train- Hamilton and Ferrari, there is a hitting debris or running across a with the Italian team blaming bal- tures sword-wielding mount- “It invokes a history of lot more negative.” ing, what kind, all those kind of long season ahead with another kerb, which would explain why he ance setup issues for their lack of ed men dressed as crusading genocide and because of that Bottas, conscious that he needs things, travel plans, all sorts. 20 races to go before the world couldn’t keep pace with the Finn. a competitive edge. knights in black and red tunics the name, it should never be to deliver this year with promising “So (I’m) just trying to opti- champion is crowded. Despite his disappointment, “We were just slow,” said Vet- adorned with crosses. on anybody’s mind,” Lineham Frenchman Esteban Ocon waiting mise everything for this year, try Hamilton, who was left mys- Hamilton said he was happy for tel. “We need to get back, have a The Crusaders represent told New Zealand’s Newshub in the wings as the team’s reserve to maximise every single thing tifi ed by his lack of speed after Bottas and would bounce back at good look and I’m sure we’ll fi nd the top half of New Zealand’s website. driver, said he learned a lot from that is possible. dominating the free practice ses- the next race in Bahrain. something because we know that 2018 and had taken it on board. “I don’t know, it’s quite dif- sions and qualifying, was left ru- “Valtteri drove an incredible race the car is better than what we “For sure every year you learn fi cult to explain what’s been ing a wheelspin at the start that so he truly deserved it and we just have seen today.” ‘What have we done?’ — Youngs slams toothless England

Flying Finn, charging Bull: Five things we learned from the Australian GP London: England are at a loss to explain how they squandered a 31-0 lead to draw 38-38 with Scotland in their final Six Nations game on Melbourne Ferrari blamed balance issues His new team-mate Pierre Gasly enth, showing that Renault might Rosso’s Alexander Albon placed Saturday and face a period of introspection, scrumhalf Ben Youngs around the bumpy track and they suff ered in qualifying from a be able to compete with Haas and 14th, Antonio Giovinazzi was 15th has said. clearly have work to do before team strategy error and didn’t get Red Bull this year. in his Alfa Romeo and Williams’ England dominated before halftime but appeared to take their foot altteri Bottas in a Mer- the next race in Bahrain, with further than the first session. The “Nico showed in the race that the George Russell came home 16th. off the gas and needed an 83rd-minute try by George Ford to salvage cedes won the Austral- Sebastian Vettel finishing a distant Frenchman started 17th on the car belongs in the top eight and a draw at Twickenham, with coach Eddie Jones suggesting they had ian Grand Prix at the fourth, 57.1 seconds behind Bottas. grid but reaff irmed his potential we’ll be aiming for a smoother WILLIAMS PLAY CATCH-UP, a mental block when closing out matches. Vweekend. Here are five His partner Charles Leclerc was by weaving through the field to weekend in Bahrain and a strong AGAIN “We’re looking at ourselves in the mirror going: what have we done. things we learned from Formula fifth. “This weekend is not the real finish 11th. result,” said Ricciardo. Williams appear to have made You can’t be that ruthless in the first half and be so toothless in the One’s season opener: potential of our car,” insisted Fer- little progress from last year when second,” Youngs told reporters, struggling to explain how Scotland rari chief Mattia Binotto. RICCIARDO HAS HORROR NORRIS TAKES ROOKIE they propped up the constructors’ scored 38 points without reply before England snatched a draw. MERCEDES ARE TEAM TO SHOW HONOURS championship. “That’s ultimately what we were. We thought the job was done and BEAT RED BULL WARM TO HONDA Daniel Ricciardo’s off -season Of the four drivers embarking on Robert Kubica, in his first race it was far from done. We were too loose, too flippant with the ball. Pre-season testing pointed to Red Bull proved they have enough move from Red Bull to Renault a first full season, British teenager since a horror rallying accident in Disappointing. Ferrari having the upper hand but power in their new Honda engines raised more than a few eyebrows Lando Norris was the standout. 2011, and rookie George Russell “There’s going to be a lot of reflection on this one... I can’t work out Mercedes proved consistently to be a genuine contender this and his 2019 campaign with his The talented McLaren driver were bottom of the timesheets, why it’s happened but it has. We’ve got to figure out why and how we faster throughout the weekend year, with the aggressive Max new team couldn’t have got off outshone his more experienced by some distance, all weekend stop gifting teams momentum when you’re completely in control of as Lewis Hamilton dominated Verstappen charging to third and to a worse start. The Australian teammate Carlos Sainz by finish- with the team admitting it was an the game like we were.” the free practice sessions and overtaking Vettel along the way. smashed his front wing just me- ing qualifying a highly credible achievement to simply get both Youngs acknowledged England’s familiar failing in games over the qualifying while his flying Finnish “The car was working really tres after the race start and was eighth and finishing 12th in the cars to the finish line. last 12 months, but said the manner in which they collapsed in front teammate Valtteri Bottas got off well and we also look strong on forced to retire on lap 31, ending a race. Russell said afterwards that Wil- of stunned home fans was frustrating. to a stunning start by winning the straights which is hopefully forgettable home Grand Prix. “It’s cool to finish my first race and liams had found a “fundamental” “It’s so annoying. You’re in complete control of the game to being on Sunday’s race by almost 21 a good sign for the rest of the His teammate Nico Hulkenberg get it out of the way,” he said. fault with the car, which when completely out of control,” Youngs added. “Had the game been seconds from the Briton. season,” said the Dutchman. came home an encouraging sev- Of the other newcomers, Toro resolved would see “a big leap”. tighter earlier, would we be doing some of those things? We abso- lutely wouldn’t. Gulf Times Tuesday, March 19, 2019 5 SPORT

NBA MLB Mariners limber up for start with win Sixers down Bucks despite Ichiro fl op

AFP while brilliance in the fi eld. Tokyo “Ichiro is a legend,” insisted Freitas. “You have to respect everything he’s done in his ca- apanese superstar Ichiro reer. It’s been an honour to be despite Giannis’ 52 Suzuki fi red blanks again on the same team as him.” yesterday, but the Seat- Earlier, Matt Chapman went ‘They are the best team in the NBA right now, as far as record goes’ tle Mariners still pipped 2-for-2 with a walk as the Ath- Japan’sJ Yomiuri Giants 6-5 in a letics tied 6-6 with Japan’s AFP pre-season win thanks to Dav- Nippon Ham Fighters. Los Angeles id Freitas’s birthday bash. Seattle, who also beat the The 45-year-old went hit- Yomiuri Giants 6-4 at the less in three at-bats, before weekend, have named Suzuki oel Embiid scored 40 points and catcher Freitas smashed a solo to their 28-player roster for 15 rebounds as the Philadelphia home run in the top of the Japan, but the former hitmaker 76ers overcame Giannis Antetok- eighth inning to secure victory could be cut when they trim ounmpo’s career-high 52 points ahead of tomorrow’s Major the squad to 25 on their return. toJ beat the Milwaukee Bucks 130-125 and League Baseball season-open- Suzuki, who has broken a clinch a playoff berth on Sunday. er against the Oakland Athlet- number of MLB records since It was Embiid’s 52nd career double- ics. sweeping to rookie of the year double and the 25th time he has scored at The two teams face off again honours in 2001, remains coy least 30 points and seized 10 rebounds in on Thursday in the second of about his future after hitting a NBA game. their two-game series at Tokyo just.080 in spring training. Embiid’s best quarter was the fourth Dome. He stepped aside to take up a when he tallied 18 points as the visiting “It felt good off the bat,” front offi ce job last season and Sixers earned a spot in the Eastern Con- smiled Freitas after celebrating is entering his 19th MLB cam- ference playoff s by beating the top-ranked his 30th birthday in style. paign on a minor league deal team in front of a crowd of 17,300 at the “I couldn’t be more happy with the Mariners. Fiserv Forum. “They are the best team in than to spend my birthday in Japan’s most successful the NBA right now, as far as record goes,” Japan, to hit a home run is just baseball export, in 2004 Suzu- Embiid said. “No. 1 in our conference. I the icing on the cake.” ki broke an 84-year-old mile- felt like we had to make a statement. We Suzuki’s appearance this stone for hits in a single season, had to get this win.” week is likely to be the last fi nishing with 262 – fi ve more time Japanese fans get to see than baseball legend George RESULTS him play – and could mark his Sisler had in 1920. swansong after a storied career. He subsequently became the New York 124-123 Lakers His woes with the bat con- fi rst Major Leaguer to record Miami 93-75 Charlotte tinue, meanwhile, a hitless 200 hits in 10 consecutive sea- streak this spring extending sons, while also helping Japan Philadelphia 130-125 Milwaukee to 24 at-bats, although Suzuki win the World Baseball Classic Detroit 110-107 Toronto showed glimpses of his erst- in 2006 and 2009. Orlando 101-91 Atlanta Sacramento 129-102 Chicago Houston 117-102 Minnesota Clippers 119-116 Brooklyn

“I thought we all did a pretty good job in the fi rst half. In the second half, he (Antetokounmpo) kind of got going. He is tough to guard.” Jimmy Butler had 27 points and JJ Redick 19 for the Sixers, who won their fourth in a row. Antetokounmpo carried the Bucks on his back with one of the best games of his career. He also had 16 rebounds and seven assists, and Khris Middleton added 19 Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo dunks during the first quarter of their NBA game against the Philadelphia 76ers at points. The Bucks played without guard Fiserv Forum. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Seattle Mariners Ichiro Suzuki (right) talks with Yomiuri Giants Malcolm Brogdon, who will be sidelined manager Tatsunori Hara before their game between the Seattle for at least six weeks with a plantar fascia as the Houston Rockets used a third quar- Mariners and the Yomiuri Giants at Tokyo Dome in Tokyo. (Reuters) tear in right foot. Embiid made two free Westbrook hit with one-game suspension ter run to beat the Minnesota Timber- throws in the fi nal seconds of the fourth to wolves 117-102. Capela recorded 20 points help seal the win. Oklahoma City Thunder all-star Russell fouling him instead. Westbrook missed and 13 rebounds in grappling with Tim- “He’s (Embiid) a tough guy,” Antetok- Westbrook was slapped with a one-game all seven of his three-point attempts and berwolves All-Star centre Karl-Anthony Sweat has minor heart condition ounmpo said. “He’s a great defender, ban Sunday for taking out his frustrations shot a dismal two-for-16 from the floor Towns (22 points, 10 rebounds, six as- strong. It was kind of hard going at him.” on an opponent in a 110-88 NBA loss to against Golden State. sists). Rookie forward Josh Okogie scored Highly regarded defensive ble Top 10 pick in the 2019 NFL Elsewhere, LeBron James scored 33 the Golden State Warriors. He will serve his suspension Monday, 21 points for the Timberwolves, who have end Montez Sweat was dis- Draft. Sweat’s agents provided points but it was not enough to prevent The league’s disciplinary off icials sus- when the Thunder host the Miami Heat. dropped 7 of 10. Taj Gibson chipped in 15 covered to have a pre-existing a statement to NFL.com on the Los Angeles Lakers sliding to an em- pended Westbrook after he picked up The suspension came five days after points and 10 rebounds off the bench for heart condition at the recent Sunday. “Because of privacy barrassing 124-123 defeat to the league- his 16th technical foul of the season on Westbrook received a $25,000 fine for an Minnesota. Houston improved to 11-2 NFL Scouting Combine, NFL. issues we are not allowed to worst New York Knicks. Saturday night. altercation with a Utah Jazz fan. since the All-Star break. com reported Sunday. Sweat’s comment specifically,” the The Lakers, who are all but out of con- Under NBA rules, players are automati- The 2017 NBA MVP later said he had Nikola Vucevic scored 17 of his 27 points condition wasn’t publicly statement began, “but I will tention for the playoff s, blew a 122-111 lead cally suspended when they hit 16 techni- been subjected to racist abuse. The Jazz in the fi rst quarter and the Orlando Magic known prior to the combine. tell you that this is not news. late in the fourth quarter as the Knicks cals in a season and if Westbrook collects said the fan involved in the incident had remained in the chase for the fi nal playoff Doctors determined his condi- Montez is the same person ended a run of eight consecutive defeats two more then his coach could also be been banned for life from the venue. spot in the Eastern Conference with a 101- tion to be low-risk, according that was medically cleared to with an upset win at Madison Square banned for a game. The Jazz followed up by banning a 91 win over the visiting Atlanta Hawks. to NFL.com, and allowed play and dominate the SEC, Garden. It marked another grim mile- A frustrated Westbrook received the second fan for “degrading and off ensive” Vucevic scored the fi rst 13 points of the Sweat to participate. Sweat the Senior Bowl, and the NFL stone in the Lakers’ rocky season, which technical with 3:29 remaining in the language aimed at Westbrook before game for Orlando and 17 of the team’s fi rst ran a blazing 4.41-second, combine. No change in health has nosedived dramatically since the turn one-sided home contest when he was a 2018 playoff game in Salt Lake City. 19. He fi nished 10-for-20 from the fi eld, 40-yard dash at the combine, and no change in domination!” of the year. blocked by Klay Thompson. Westbrook The NBA has called on all 30 teams to the 32nd time this season he’s led the team topping the previous mark for Sweat ranked among the SEC The Knicks are rooted to the bottom of got upset because no foul was called send out a memo to their fans, asking to in scoring, and grabbed 20 rebounds for a defensive lineman shared by leaders in sacks and tackles for the Eastern Conference with the worst and immediately charged at Thompson, respect the players. his team-leading 52nd double-double. North Carolina State’s Manny loss in each of his two seasons record in the NBA, with Sunday’s win see- Orlando, vying for its fi rst playoff spot Lawson (2006) and Isaac (2017-18) with the Bulldogs, ing them improve to 14 wins against 56 fewer than the Los Angeles Clippers, who the Knicks for digging out an improbable since 2010-11, has won two in a row and Hilton from Hampton (2004). tallying a combined 22.5 sacks defeats. The Lakers meanwhile are stuck occupy the last remaining playoff berth. win. all three games against Atlanta. They The performance elevated him and 30 tackles for loss in in 11th spot in the Western Conference Dejected Lakers coach Luke Walton, In Houston, Chris Paul scored 25 points, complete the season series on April 5 in into contention to be a possi- 2017-18. with 31 wins and 39 defeats, nine wins whose job is reportedly in peril, praised tied a career high with six three-pointers Orlando.

NHL Flyers stun Penguins late, win in overtime SCHALLER TALLIES TWO GOALS FOR Reuters RESULTS Pittsburgh CANUCKS IN WIN OVER DALLAS Colorado 3-0 New Jersey Josh Leivo’s shootout goal gave the visiting Vancouver Canucks a 3-2 victory over the Buff alo 4-3 St. Louis ean Couturier scored with 3.4 sec- Dallas Stars on Sunday night. Leivo scored in onds left in overtime Sunday to give Islanders 3-2 Minnesota the fourth round of the shootout. the visiting Philadelphia Flyers a crit- Vancouver 3-2 Dallas The Canucks posted their second win in ical 2-1 win over the Pittsburgh Pen- Philadelphia 2-1 Pittsburgh three games, while the Stars took their sec- guins.S Couturier’s 29th goal came when he ond straight loss, which prevented Dallas blasted the puck from the right circle to the Anaheim 3-2 Florida from gaining ground on St. Louis for third far side past goaltender Matt Murray, who Las Vegas 6-3 Edmonton place in the Central Division. also gave up James van Riemsdyk’s tying goal Tim Schaller led the Canucks with two with 18.8 seconds left in regulation. two periods came at 1:11 of the second. goals, marking the fi rst two-goal game of Flyers goalie Carter Hart, in just his second Philadelphia’s Claude Giroux, who played his NHL career. The goals were also the fi rst start in 11 games, made 41 saves. despite being ill earlier in the day, shot the as a Canuck for Schaller, a summer 2018 The game was played 16,000 days after puck past Murray, but it was immediately free agent signing who has been a frequent Philadelphia (35-29-8, 78 points) last won ruled no goal by the on-ice offi cials because healthy scratch after playing all 82 regular- the Stanley Cup in 1975, and the two points Jakub Voracek appeared to interfere with season games and 11 playoff contests with helped keep the Flyers’ playoff hopes alive. Murray. The Flyers challenged, and the call Boston last season. They are six points out of an Eastern Confer- was reversed. Jamie Benn and Taylor Fedun tallied for the ence wild-card spot with 10 games to play. That made it 1-0, but the Penguins im- Stars. Vancouver goaltender Jacob Markstrom Rookie Teddy Blueger scored for Pitts- mediately challenged that Philadelphia had stopped 44 of 46 shots. Dallas netminder An- burgh (39-24-10, 88 points), which lost its been off side – Voracek, specifi cally – and ton Khudobin recorded 25 saves on 27 shots. second in a row but held onto third place in that challenge was rewarded, so the game The Canucks squandered a 2-0 lead for the the Metropolitan Division. Murray made 36 continued scoreless after the fi rst double second game in a row. Schaller opened the saves. challenge on one goal in NHL history. scoring 52 seconds into the game as he came Pittsburgh played without centre Ev- Blueger, fi lling in for Malkin as the second- around the net and squeezed a shot between geni Malkin. Coach Mike Sullivan said later line centre, gave Pittsburgh a 1-0 lead with Khudobin and the post. Sunday that the star centre’s availability is his fourth goal at 2:07 of the third. He got a It was Khudobin’s second straight game al- “week to week” after he sustained an upper- rebound of a shot by Phil Kessel and whipped lowing a goal in the fi rst minute. The goal was body injury on Saturday. Malkin was shaken it inside the right post. Schaller’s fi rst in almost a year. He last scored up – but stayed in the game – when he took With Hart pulled for an extra attacker, van for Boston against Tampa Bay on March 29, a cross-check to the rib area from St Louis’ Riemsdyk’s tying goal, his 25th, came on a 2018. Jay Beagle earned a quick assist after sit- Philadelphia Flyers’ Sean Couturier (centre) celebrates with Shayne Gostisbehere (left) and Scott Laughton Robert Bortuzzo. one-timer from the slot on a setup by Travis ting out Friday’s overtime loss to New Jersey after scoring the game winning goal against the Pittsburgh Penguins in overtime at PPG PAINTS Arena. The closest thing to a goal during the fi rst Konecny. due to illness. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Gulf Times 6 Tuesday, March 19, 2019 SPORT

NFL SPOTLIGHT ‘Uncle Olympics’ fan dies just short Miami Dolphins sign of 2020 Games

AFP facturing business, and also Tokyo expanded his portfolio to in- clude the hotel and real estate sectors. But away from work, Japanese Olympic his passion was for sport, par- veteran quarterback mega-fan who at- ticularly the Olympics. tended every summer He did not miss a summer games since Tokyo in games since 1964, taking in Fitzpatrick, who has a reputation as 1964A has died, just over a year Mexico City, Munich, Mon- before his home city was to treal, Moscow, Los Angeles, a gunslinger, produced a career-best host its second Olympics. Seoul, Barcelona, Atlanta, Tokyo businessman Nao- Sydney, Athens, Beijing, Lon- 100.4 passer rating in 2018 toshi Yamada, 92, who died on don and Rio de Janeiro. Fitzpatrick March 9 from heart failure, was For good measure, he also a national celebrity in his own attended the winter games right with his repeated, glee- when it rolled into Nagano in ful appearances in Olympic 1998, and told local media of stands. his strong desire to attend the “Uncle Olympics”, as he 2020 Tokyo Games. came to be known, was an om- Yamada saw the fi rst Tokyo nipresent fi xture for Japanese Olympics when he was 38. TV watchers cheering on the But his passion was truly Japan team at the “Greatest ignited during the 1968 Mex- Show On Earth”. ico City Games, according to Often sporting a gold top his website. He donned a ki- hat, kimono, and a beaming mono and a sombrero hat and smile, Yamada also became loudly cheered for a Mexican a darling of the international 5000-metre runner, mistaking media. him for a Japanese athlete. “After 92 years of his life Local spectators embraced spent cheering, Naotoshi Ya- the scene and loudly cheered mada, international Olympic for Japanese athletes in return, cheerleader, was called to eter- leading to an electrifying show nal rest on March 9, 2019,” said of support that went beyond his web site, managed by a fi rm nationality, his website said. he founded. “He saw the awesome power Born in 1926, Yamada built of cheering, and was mesmer- a successful wire rope manu- ised by it ever since,” it said.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick leaves the field after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers game against the Washington Redskins on November 11, 2018 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla. (Tampa Bay Times/TNS) Naotoshi Yamada poses at his off ice in Tokyo, Japan, on October By Omar Kelly with a free agent, or a draftee be- the clipboard behind Drew Brees. the Texans, and then spent two Murray, Ohio State’s Dwayne 3, 2018. (Reuters) Sun Sentinel cause Jake Rudock and Luke Falk, It’s likely that Fitzpatrick, who seasons as the New York Jets Haskins, Missouri’s Drew Lock a second-year player claimed off has earned $58 million through- starter. Fitzpatrick served as Ja- and Duke’s Daniel Jones – are of the waiver wire last off season, out his career, accepted a similar meis Winston’s backup in Tampa projected to be possible fi rst- he Miami Dolphins are more suited to be training deal to the one Taylor and Bridge- Bay the past two seasons, but round talents. Miami should be China’s twerking high jumper banned didn’t look far to replace camp arms competing for a ros- water turned down. Fitzpatrick he’s thrived in many of his op- in position to land one of the four for breaking commercial rules Ryan Tannehill as the ter spot. Only Rudock has played made $3.3 million last season portunities as a starter. Last sea- with the No. 13 pick it possesses team’s starting quar- in an NFL game, completing 3 of with the Buccaneers. Fitzpatrick son he completed 66.7 percent in the fi rst round, but the Dol- China has suspended a world silver-medallist high jumper -known Tterback. In fact, the team didn’t 5 passes while a member of the has started 126 games since 2005, of his passes, throwing for 2,366 phins would likely have to trade for his flamboyant twerking celebrations - after he broke the coun- even have to leave the state. Detroit Lions in 2017. when he entered the NFL as the yards with 17 touchdowns and 12 up to land Murray or Haskins. try’s strict rules on commercial activities, state media said. According to a league source, By trading Tannehill, the Dol- Ivy League Player of the Year, and interceptions in the eight games But 2020 seems to be the Zhang Guowei said that he was “still fighting on the frontlines of Ryan Fitzpatrick, a 14-year vet- phins cleared $13.4 million in cap was taken in the seventh-round he played, seven of which were as quarterback class the Dolphins the national team” despite his suspension from all competitions. eran who spent the past two sea- space, which can be used to sign of the draft by St. Louis Rams. the Buccaneers starter. have their eyes on because Ala- The Chinese Athletic Association (CAA) punished the 27 year-old sons with the Tampa Bay Buc- free agents, or enable the fran- Fitzpatrick started three of Fitzpatrick, who has a reputa- bama’s Tua Tagovailoa, Or- for attending two commercial events, in late February and early caneers, signed a contract on chise to sign Pro Bowl corner- the four games he played for tion as a gunslinger, produced a egon’s Justin Herbert and Geor- March, without getting permission, Xinhua news agency reported. Sunday with Miami, making the back Xavien Howard to a con- the Rams his rookie season, and career-best 100.4 passer rating gia’s Jake Fromm are considered The CAA did not specify the length of the suspension, Xinhua said. Dolphins the third AFC East team tract extension, which is atop the started his journey as an NFL in 2018. His cumulative passer franchise-changing talents. The “I deeply felt the care, concerns and expectations from them,” the former Harvard standout will team’s to-do list this off season. nomad in 2007 when he was rating for his 14 seasons is 81.1. Dolphins’ decision-makers have Zhang, who won silver at the 2015 World Championships in Bei- play for. Terms of the contract This past week, the Dolphins traded to the Cincinnati Bengals This 36-year-old is known for not hidden the fact the franchise jing, wrote on Weibo, China’s equivalent of Twitter. were not immediately available. failed to lure Tyrod Taylor and for a 2008 seventh-round pick. being a student of the game, and is rebuilding, and all of Miami’s “The off icials expressed their understanding and tolerance Fitzpatrick replaces Tanne- Teddy Bridgewater to Miami, He spent two seasons with for unorthodox plays and mak- moves so far indicate that win- towards my behaviour. hill, who was traded to the Ten- as both veteran quarterbacks the Bengals, starting 12 of the ing bold throws. He is respected ning in 2019 is not the top pri- “Please don’t worry! Zhang Guowei is still fighting on the frontlines nessee Titans on Friday in a deal passed on a two-year, $10 mil- 14 games he played in, and then in league circles for being a good ority. General manager Chris of the national team.” that swapped late-round picks lion contract the team was of- joined the Buff alo Bills, for whom mentor to younger quarterbacks. Grier has vowed to lay a founda- A quirky character, Zhang celebrates successful jumps in an in 2019, and will send Miami a fering. Taylor signed with the he started 53 games over four His signing likely won’t pre- tion that will make the Dolphins exuberant fashion, twerking and striking poses, before sprinting 2020 fourth-round selection. Los Angles Chargers, where he’ll seasons. He spent the 2013 sea- vent Miami from drafting a a perennial playoff team, and towards spectators. Trading Tannehill to the Ti- serve as Philip Rivers’ backup, son in Tennessee, starting nine quarterback either in the 2019 it appears Fitzpatrick could be He suff ered injuries and loss of form after his 2015 silver, coming tans created a massive void on the and Bridgewater returned to of 11 games, the 2014 season in or 2020 NFL draft. Four quar- the bridge that leads the off ense well outside the medals at the 2016 Rio Olympics. roster, one that had to be fi lled New Orleans, where he’ll hold Houston starting 12 games for terbacks – Oklahoma’s Kyler during that transition.

FOCUS Alarm as ‘Ice Prince’ Hanyu skips worlds practice AFP struggling, American Nathan shots in Pyeongchang, where he as she seeks to become the fi rst Saitama, Japan Chen arguably starts as a slight became the fi rst man to capture Japanese women’s world cham- favourite to defend his world ti- back-to-back Olympic fi gure pion since Mao Asada in 2014. tle, despite having to balance his skating gold medals in 66 years. Kihira stormed to victory in apan’s “Ice Prince” Yuzu- studies at Yale university. both her grand prix events, the ru Hanyu skipped training “I’m really glad I gave myself PM’S CRUSHED TANGERINE Grand Prix Final and the Four yesterday ahead of this a shot to attempt both,” said the His gutsy performance broke the Continents, and the 16-year-old week’s world fi gure skat- 19-year-old, who landed a record Internet, while Japanese Prime promised to put on a show for ingJ championships, triggering six quad jumps in a programme Minister Shinzo Abe admitted the home fans. fresh fi tness fears over the Ol- at the 2018 Pyeongchang Games he had got so excited watching Olympic champion Alina Za- ympic champion. in winning the free skate, though on television he almost squashed gitova will be her biggest threat The 24-year-old, who retained still fi nished outside the medals. a tangerine to a pulp. as the Russian tries to atone for his Olympic title last year after “My skating has been going Meanwhile, fellow Japanese a fi fth-place fi nish at last year’s an injury-hit build-up, opted well too, so I can’t complain. Shoma Uno, who took silver be- worlds. against an early morning prac- The worlds is a whole other ball- hind Hanyu at the 2018 Olym- “It’s my fi rst world champi- tice in Saitama as he continues to game.” pics, also skipped practice yes- onships and there will be a few recover from strained ankle liga- Hanyu’s arrival in South Korea terday – to the disappointment nerves skating at this big Saita- ments that sidelined him for De- last year was also shrouded in of more than 200 waiting press. ma rink,” Kihira told reporters. cember’s Japanese nationals. mystery after he twisted his an- Few would bet against Hanyu “But I’m happy to be able to Hanyu’s coach Brian Orser in- kle just weeks before the Olym- should he recover, but Chen and skate in Japan and will look to sisted he was “very confi dent” pics. The snake-hipped super- Uno – who swept to gold at the execute two solid skates with no the two-time world champion star has been training in secrecy recent Four Continents meet mistakes.” would be fi t, guaranteeing a fresh once more in the run-up to the with a record-breaking free France will look to plunder wave of “Yuzu-Mania” from the world championships in Saita- skate – will push him close. gold in the pairs through Vanessa skater’s legions of adoring female ma, where he captured his fi rst The host nation will be hoping James and Morgan Cipres, with fans who shower him with stuff ed world title in 2014 a month after teenage sensation Rika Kihira Gabriella Papadakis and Guil- Winnie the Pooh bears after his winning gold at the Sochi Olym- can replicate her form during a laume Cizeron favourites in the performances. But with Hanyu pics. Hanyu needed painkilling remarkable senior debut season ice dance. Japanese figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu. Gulf Times Tuesday, March 19, 2019 7 SPORT

LA LIGA Fantastic Messi hat-trick blows away Real Betis Messi’s treble, his fourth of the season and 51st of his career, moves Barca 10 points clear of Atletico with 10 games to play

AFP whom they face in the Champions Madrid League quarter-fi nals next month. Al- ready in the fi nal of the Copa del Rey, where Barca will return to this stadium ven the Real Betis fans were ap- to face Valencia in May, a treble is cer- plauding by the end as Lionel tainly not beyond the realms of possi- Messi scored another spec- bility. tacular hat-trick to fi re Barce- There was barely a moment to pause lonaE to a 4-1 victory on Sunday night for breath in the fi rst half, both teams and leave them with one hand on the La throwing players forward without re- Liga trophy. straint or, seemingly, regard for the Messi’s treble, his second in a month spaces they left at the back. Betis were in Seville, fourth of the season and 51st happy to open up and almost took the of his career, moves Barca 10 points lead when Joaquin volleyed fi rst-time clear of Atletico Madrid with 10 games to the stretching Sergio Canales, but he left to play, a gap surely too big to close. was unable to connect. “We had a great opportunity to increase Barca were perhaps fortunate to earn the gap on Atletico,” Messi said. “We the free-kick for Messi’s opener as had to take it tonight.” Canales obstructed Arthur Melo just Luis Suarez, whose superb fl ick set outside the area, to the right of centre. up Messi’s second, scored his own bril- But there was no luck in Messi’s shot, liant goal after a scintillating solo run which fl ew like a dart over the ducking but it was ultimately reduced to a foot- head of Gerard Pique, past the hand of note, in what became another night all Pau Lopez, and into the top left-hand about his Argentinian partner. The only corner. blot was the sight of Suarez limping off Betis came again, Arthur twice late on, with what coach Ernesto Val- scrambling the ball away from Canales verde suspected was a “bad sprain” to in the box, before Suarez missed a sitter his ankle. after being teed up by Messi. He made Messi now has 29 league goals this amends just before half-time. Messi season, 39 in all competitions, and to- fi red into the feet of the Uruguayan, gether with Suarez’s 18 their joint-total who took the ball one way and fl icked of 47 is more than all but two of the oth- it the other, behind his leg and into the er teams in the division. A simple fi nish path of Messi, who did the rest. from Suarez’s exquisite assist came be- Betis could have been four down by tween a free-kick perfectly planted into the hour as Suarez missed two more, the top corner and a bending lob that but the chances kept coming, and he grazed the crossbar and dropped in. fi nally hit the mark. There were four The Betis fans left at the Benito Vil- defenders ahead when he began his run lamarin, and most of them were, felt from the halfway line but Suarez sped compelled to stand and applaud. “I past one and between two more, each don’t remember the opposition cheer- of them colliding into the other before ing me for a goal, I am very grateful,” being left sprawled on the ground. Messi said. This was supposed to be Aissa Mandi made one fi nal lunge but one of the more awkward tests in Bar- Suarez skipped through to fi nish. Loren celona’s run-in, which includes Atleti- Moron curled in a consolation for Betis co Madrid at home and fi fth-placed but Messi had the fi nal say. Ivan Rak- Alaves away. itic rolled the ball back and he clipped All the rest of their opponents cur- a sumptuous chip over Lopez, off the rently sit 10th or lower. But regardless crossbar and in. Suarez limped off in- of the fi xtures, Barca seem to be saving jured in the fi nal minutes and Messi their best for the home straight, which could have added a fi fth, only for the bodes badly for Manchester United, post to rescue Betis. Barcelona’s forward Lionel Messi (right) evades Real Betis defenders to score during the La Liga match in Seville on Sunday night. (AFP)

UEFA PROBE RONALDO FOR ‘IMPROPER FOCUS CONDUCT’ OVER GOAL CELEBRATION Third edition of the Ooredoo Temba Milan: UEFA yesterday opened Ronaldo turned towards the their own way on the field and an investigation into Cristiano Atletico fans and replicated in the stands. I saw nothing Ronaldo’s goal celebration after Simeone’s gesture after the strange, just a celebration. football tournament from tomorrow scoring a hat-trick in Juventus’ Spaniards’ 2-0 first leg win by There won’t be a ban,” said Champions League comeback grasping his genitals and thrust- Allegri. spire Zone Foundation (AZF) held Jordanian Committee. As for category B, Ahmed al-Nosoor, said: “The organisation win against Atletico Madrid ing out his groin. A decision will Simeone was fined 20,000 a technical meeting with the Oore- competitions will be held between Al Wajba, of this tournament seems excellent. This is last week. European football’s be taken by UEFA on March 21. euros ($22,000) by UEFA for his doo Temba football tournament’s Al-Zaeem, Salt 2, and Qatar 2022. Further- our fi rst time to participate in this tourna- governing body said Ronaldo Juventus take on Dutch club gesture. “He will have seen how participating teams on Sunday. more, the committee announced the awards ment and we’re looking forward to enjoy- TheA tournament is scheduled to kick off to- for the top three teams. The fi rst winner will ing every minute in what-will be-a thrilling was facing charges of “improper Ajax in the Champions League I did it at the Wanda Metropoli- conduct” after he mimicked Di- quarter-finals over two legs, on tano and, like me, was trying to morrow at the state-of-the-art fi ve-a-side receive QR12,500, the second-place winner ambiance.” ego Simeone’s crotch-grabbing April 10 in Amsterdam and April show his character,” said the football pitches at AZF. During the session, will receive QR7,500 and the third will get The Ooredoo football tournament is gesture in last Tuesday’s 3-0 win 16 in Turin. Coach Massimiliano Argentinian coach. Five-time the tournament’s organising committee QR5,000. jointly organised by AZF and Ooredoo and that sent Juventus through 3-2 Allegri has said he is confident Champions League winner Ron- held a draw for the eight teams that will be Commenting on their participation for refl ects the keenness of institutes across on aggregate. Ronaldo will not be fined or aldo is the record goal scorer in divided into two categories. For category A, the third consecutive year, the Banks team Qatar in building an active and sportive so- After scoring the decisive suspended. the European competition with the competition will be between the follow- representative, Mohamed Eissa, stated ciety by nurturing a passion for football in penalty four minutes from time, “I think everyone celebrated 124 goals in 160 matches. ing teams; Ramco, Qatar Insurance, Gulf In- that the tournament brings back childhood the country. The last two editions were huge surance and the Banks team. As for category memories of playing football without being successes, with more than 160 football en- B, competitions will be between Ooredoo, surrounded by the vast number of rules that thusiasts in Qatar taking part. Bravo Design, Al Kass TV. adult life brings, which makes this football The world-class football pitches at AZP ROUND-UP As for the category that will be open to tournament a remarkable experience. are designed to meet international and Eu- footballing enthusiasts, the draw picked for Commenting on the tournament, a rep- ropean criteria and incorporate advanced category A: Salt 1, Al-Adaam, Samla and the resentative from Hamad Medical Services, solar technologies. Injured Suarez to miss China Cup arcelona forward Luis of the car. The ex-Manchester assisted Beckham in overturn- Suarez has been ruled United and Real Madrid player ing an eight-month driving ban Qatar’s al-Abdulla wins bronze at Asian Youth Athletics out of playing in the was said to have been witnessed in 1999 after arguing that the China Cup with Uru- driving his 2018 Bentley while footballer was trying to escape a guayB after spraining his ankle for using his phone on November 21. paparazzi photographer. his club at the weekend. Suarez, Two months earlier, Beckham 32, is expected to miss between was accused of “shirking his OSPINA IMPROVING AFTER 10 and 15 days after limping off responsibility” as a role model HEAD INJURY SCARE late in Sunday’s 4-1 win at Real after avoiding prosecution on Napoli goalkeeper David Ospina Betis in La Liga. a speeding charge because of remains under observation in Suarez’s absence adds to that a technicality. Enlisting the hospital but is improving after of Edinson Cavani for Uruguay services of celebrity lawyer Nick his frightening collapse follow- after the Paris Saint-Germain Freeman, who is dubbed “Mr ing a knock to the head in an striker failed to shake off a thigh Loophole”, Beckham accepted he Italian league game at the week- injury for the trip to China. drove at 59 miles (95 kilometres) end, his father Hernan said. Oscar Tabarez’s squad travel per hour in a 40mph zone in The Colombia international to Nanning to take on take on west London in January last year. had received treatment after Uzbekistan on March 21, with But Beckham did not face fur- colliding with striker Ignacio the winner meeting China or ther action because a notice of Pussetto minutes into the game Thailand in the fi nal four days intended prosecution (NIP) was at the Stadio San Paolo. The later. Suarez scored his 18th not received until one day after 30-year-old, who is on loan league goal of the season at Betis the statutory 14-day time limit. from Arsenal, returned to play to draw level with Diego Forlan Beckham was sent another NIP with bandages around his head for the most goals scored by a over the latest incident and was after receiving stitches to his Uruguayan in Spain’s top fl ight subsequently charged on Febru- forehead. But 41 minutes later, with 128. ary 5, according to court staff . Ospina collapsed to the ground Using a hand-held mobile and was transferred by ambu- BECKHAM ADMITS USING phone while driving in Britain lance to the nearby San Paolo PHONE WHILE DRIVING, is illegal. The matter is listed to hospital for tests. POLICE SAY be heard at the court in Bromley, Ospina, who has 94 caps for David Beckham has admitted in the London suburbs, today, the national side, will miss Co- driving his Bentley in London but Beckham is not expected to lombia’s international friendlies while using a mobile phone, attend and members of the press against Japan on March 22 and police said yesterday. The former and public will not be admitted. South Korea four days later. England captain was charged The hearing will be an adminis- Napoli coach Carlo Ancelotti Qatar’s middle distance runner Fahad al-Abdulla (left) won the bronze medal in the 400m event at the third Asian Youth Atheltics after a member of the public told trative one where a single mag- visited Ospina yesterday morn- Championship in Hong Kong on Sunday. Al-Abdulla finished behind Singapore’s Mark Bryan who won the event, while the second place police they saw the 43-year-old istrate may choose to impose ing at the Pineta Grande Clinic went to Henry Feong of Hong Kong. Fourteen Qatar’s athletes participated in the championship. on the phone while at the wheel points or a fi ne. Freeman also placed under observation.

Tuesday, March 19, 2019 GULF TIMES SPORT

SPOTLIGHT EURO QUALIFIERS Hudson-Odoi, Ward-Prowse 2022 World Cup will earn England call-ups AFP London

helsea teenager Cal- lum Hudson-Odoi was be historic, says Xavi called up by England for the fi rst time, while CSouthampton midfi elder James Xavi inaugurates the construction of a community pitch in Mumbai for 'Generation Amazing' programme Ward-Prowse was also drafted into Gareth Southgate’s squad By Sports Reporter yesterday amid a series of with- Doha drawals due to injury. Fabian Delph, Ruben Loftus- Cheek, John Stones and Luke he 2022 World Cup would be a Shaw have pulled out for Euro historic event not just for Qatar 2020 qualifi ers against the but also the entire Middle East Czech Republic and Montene- region, Spain and Barcelona gro. Hudson-Odoi, 18, has yet to Tlegend Xavi has said. make a Premier League start, but Xavi, who plays for Qatar’s Al Sadd, has impressed in cup competi- was speaking in Mumbai where he in- tions and the Europa League for augurated the construction of a com- Chelsea, as well as fl eeting ap- munity pitch as part of the Supreme pearances off the bench in the Committee’s “Generation Amazing” top-fl ight and attracted interest initiative. from German champions Bayern In a traditional ceremony in Mumbai, Munich in January. the Spanish football icon and 2010 FIFA “It’s been a crazy day but World Cup winner Xavi set the ball roll- getting my fi rst (senior) inter- ing for the construction of a new foot- national call-up is an amazing ball turf that will benefi t at least 2000 feeling,” said Hudson-Odoi, who children. Xavi met Generation Amazing had just arrived in Bristol for his benefi ciaries and local dignitaries be- fi rst call-up to the England un- fore participating in a traditional cer- der-21 squad before being told emony to begin pitch construction. Su- to head to the senior side’s train- preme Committee has built 28 pitches ing base in the Midlands. “I was for communities across the Middle East shocked and then when I heard and Asia through its’ Generation Amaz- that I actually had to go over, ing programme. I couldn’t believe it. I was de- “Qatar has been preparing well for lighted. It’s a dream come true. the world Cup since 2010. They had Former Spanish footballer Xavi Hernandez greets Indian children after a football game in Mumbai yesterday. A FIFA World Cup winner with Spain in 2010, Xavi is the Now I’ve got to work hard, enjoy time and still have time to organise global ambassador for the Generation Amazing programme of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy. (AFP) every moment and keep working everything,” Xavi said. “So it will be a to just hopefully make an impact historic World Cup for the Middle East, coach in Felix Sanchez,” he added. when I get the opportunity.” and not just for Qatar,” the 39-year-old He also praised the skills of Lionel Ward-Prowse has just one footballer told journalists, Indian media Messi, saying the Argentinian ace was senior international cap but is reported. getting better with time. well-known to England boss Ga- Qatar stunned the football world “Every day he is becoming a better reth Southgate from their time by winning the Asian Cup for the fi rst player. He is unbelievable. I think he is together as manager and cap- time earlier this year in the UAE, and the best player, not at the moment, but tain of England’s under-21s. The Xavi said the success has motivated the in history, because what he is doing is 24-year-old has led Southamp- country to set higher goals. incredible. ton’s battle for Premier League “I know that they have very good “In every game he makes a diff erence survival with goals in his past players. The younger generation are and has been doing it since 12 years. three games, including brilliant doing well, especially after the Aspire I was playing with him and I know his free-kicks against Manchester Academy was established in 2006.They skills. He is just incredible,” said the United and Tottenham. have a project, which will not end in Spaniard. He added that a World Cup There was better injury news 2022, but the main objective is 2022,” with 32 teams is better than the pro- for Southgate on Jordan Hender- he said. posed 48-team event. son as Liverpool manager Jurgen “Qatar won the AFC Asian Cup, “It is better for the show, spectators Klopp confi rmed the midfi elder which is a historic achievement but I and even for the players, the competi- will join up with the squad this know they are capable of doing well in tion is not too long. As of now Qatar is week after suff ering an ankle other competitions. “They have a good making preparations with 32 teams in injury in the Reds’ 3-1 win over organisation, good staff and a good the World Cup,” he said. In a traditional ceremony, Xavi set the ball rolling for the construction of a new football turf that will benefit 2,000 children. Bayern Munich last week.

LIGUE 1 FOCUS Di Maria shines in PSG win QGF aims to hold another successful AFP Paris Doha Artistic Gymnastics World Cup ngel Di Maria scored By Sports Reporter twice as Paris Saint- Doha Germain eased to a 3-1 victory over Marseille onA Sunday night to extend their ompetition Manager for the 12th long unbeaten run against their FIG Artistic Gymnastics World arch rivals and move 20 points Cup, Abeer al-Buainain has said clear at the Ligue 1 summit. the Qatar Gymnastics Federation A group of PSG ultras were C(QGF) was committed to delivering another boycotting the opening stages of successful edition of the event, which will the game over the team’s shock see top gymnasts in action from tomorrow Champions League defeat by at Aspire Dome. Manchester United, but when Al-Buainain was speaking on the side- they arrived they were given a lines of a promotional event for the World 16th win in 19 meetings with Cup, held at Mall of Qatar on Sunday night. Marseille, alongside three draws, Several gymnasts from various age groups, to cheer. “There are some thing representing QGF wowed the spectators we can’t change, we have to ac- who turned out in numbers. cept that we had a very, very sad “The hosting of this 12th edition of the defeat — very, very bad for us. World Gymnastics Championships is a chal- But we started again at Dijon (last lenge and we are looking forward to staging week) and even today the guys another successful event,” said al-Buainain. showed their character,” said PSG “Interest shown by the people here is a proof coach Thomas Tuchel. “I’m glad that gymnastics is becoming popular in the we could show that today, be- Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappe (left) celebrates after scoring a country and we hope to continue delivering Young gymnasts perform during a promotional event for the 12th FIG Artistic Gymnastics cause it’s important for our sup- goal with Angel Di Maria against Marseille on Sunday. (AFP) such big events,” she added. World Cup at Mall of Qatar on Sunday night. porters and for us.” “Gymnastics is no less important than Kylian Mbappe put PSG in miss much goalmouth action in six matches. The match was all other sports, so Qatar is keen to develop front on the stroke of half-time early on, but many rushed to but ended as a contest just after it among athletes from an early age. It is a with his 26th league goal of the their seats when they thought Di the hour mark when Mandanda basic sport to build a sporty body that is season, but Valere Germain Maria had put the hosts in front, raced from his line and dived to fi t, fl exible, dynamic and focused,” said al- equalised in the fi rst minute of only to see the eff ort ruled out handle yards outside of his area Buainain. The promotional event was at- the second period. Argentine Di for off side by VAR. Marseille did in a moment of madness which tended by several offi cials including QGF Maria restored the home team’s well to keep their rivals at arm’s left his side a man down. President Ali al-Hitmi. advantage, though, and Marseille length for the opening 45 min- Di Maria ensured PSG did Meanwhile, gymnasts from various coun- ’keeper Steve Mandanda was utes, although injuries which not wait long to take advantage, tries underwent training sessions at the As- sent off for a clear handball 30 forced the substitutions of PSG hammering a swerving strike pire Dome, yesterday. Several Olympic and yards from goal. full-backs Thomas Meunier and from the resulting free-kick past world champions are among the star-stud- Di Maria’s wonderful free-kick Dani Alves contributed to the Pele, who was brought on for ded line-up which is taking part in the four- added further gloss to the score- game’s scrappy nature. the ineff ective Balotelli, and in day event in Doha. A total of 128 male and line, although Mbappe saw a late But PSG forged ahead in the off the post. Mbappe missed the 60 female gymnasts from 57 countries will penalty saved by visiting sub- second minute of fi rst-half in- chance to score a second himself be seen in action in the highly-anticipated stitute Yohann Pele. The capital jury time, as they broke at pace in added time, as his penalty was event, which QGF is organising for the 12th giants have not lost to Marseille from a Marseille corner and Di saved by Pele after the World Cup consecutive year. Qatar also hosted the 48th since a 3-0 defeat at the Stade Maria played in Mbappe to sweep winner was bundled over by Hi- FIG ART World Championships last Octo- Velodrome in November 2011. the ball past Mandanda. Rudi roki Sakai. ber, which was dubbed as the ‘best-ever’ With the Ligue 1 title eff ectively Garcia’s away side stunned the Earlier on Sunday, Lyon edition. “I am confi dent that we will live up secured, the only competition Parc des Princes just seconds af- strengthened their grip on a top- to expectation and host another successful left for PSG to play for this season ter the restart, though, as Lucas three spot with a 3-2 victory over competition,” al-Hitmi said. is the French Cup, in which they Ocampos raced clear and squared Montpellier, moving six points “The World Championships last year face Nantes in the semi-fi nals for Germain to slot into the bot- clear of fourth-placed Marseille. was a huge success and hailed as the best- next month. tom corner. Bruno Genesio’s men, who were ever event by top FIG offi cials. It motivates Mario Balotelli had the fi rst Marseille grew in confi dence, thrashed 5-1 by Barcelona in us to continue hosting events on that scale. for the 2020 Tokyo Games. Top star featur- appearance at the Games, will also be com- shot in anger, shrugging off the but that left space for PSG to the Champions League last 16 Though it is diffi cult task to maintain top ing in the event includes world champions peting in Doha along with Belgium’s reign- PSG defence before seeing his exploit, and Di Maria cut inside in midweek, saw off their fellow standards, I am confi dent of our team will be Xiao Ruoteng and Zou Jingyuan of China ing world champion Nina Derwael. long-range drive well held by from the right and curled a fan- European hopefuls with goals able to that successfully,” he added. and Epke Zonderland of the Netherlands. Hosts, Qatar will be represented by three home goalkeeper Alphonse Are- tastic 55th-minute fi nish past from Martin Terrier, Moussa Apart from targeting the medals, gym- World’s oldest Olympian Oksana Chuso- gymnasts — Ahmed al-Dayani, Ahmed ola. The missing ultras did not Mandanda to score his fi fth goal Dembele and Houssem Aouar. nasts will also vie for berths that are on off er vitina, 43, who is targeting her record eighth Mosa and Raslan Saoud — in the event.