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Thursday, May 2, 2019 GOLF Sha’baan 27, 1440 AH Tiger’s Masters a GULF TIMES sporting ‘Moon landing’: PGA boss SPORT Page 7

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Setback for Semenya as Wakrah Stadium CAS rules against her in testosterone fi nal motivates challenge case Ferreira, Al Sadd ‘The Al Sadd players are fresh from winning the league and they are now full of spirit to play in the Amir Cup’

AFP was insuffi cient evidence to Lausanne overturn the regulations, it “expressed some serious con- cerns as to the future practi- outh African runner cal application of these DSD Caster Semenya yes- Regulations.” terday lost her court The rules must remain a challenge against IAAF “living document,” which are rulesS forcing some female revised based on new informa- athletes to regulate their tes- tion, the court added. tosterone levels, but judges Judges specifi cally raised voiced concern with the “dis- the issue of “unintentional criminatory” regulations. non-compliance,” given the The decision by the Court diffi culty of maintaining arti- of Arbitration for Sport means fi cial testosterone levels, and that women with elevated possible side-eff ects of man- testosterone will have to take dated hormone treatment. suppressive treatment if they And the court suggested the wish to compete as females in rules should not be applied certain events. to longer events like the 1500 The verdict triggered emo- metres because there was in- tional reactions following a suffi cient evidence to indicate charged legal battle over in- that hyperandrogenic athletes creasingly complex questions had an advantage. of gender, which are likely The testosterone rules will to have far-reaching con- however apply to the 800 me- sequences for the future of tre race, an event Semenya has women’s sport. dominated over the last dec- In a 2-1 decision, CAS judges ade. dismissed Semenya’s appeal In order to defend her title against measures imposed by at the world championships in the International Associa- September, Semenya will have tion of Athletics Federations to take medication, likely in- (IAAF) targeting “hyperan- cluding birth control pills. Al Sadd coach Jesualdo Ferreira poses with his players, team staff and club off icials as they celebrate his best coach award yesterday. drogenic” athletes — or those Semenya’s testosterone lev- with “diff erences of sexual de- els are not publicly known, By Sports Reporter Baghdad and Akram, and all the players who helped this velopment” (DSD). but she is unlikely to be the Doha duo to get these awards. All the players deserve this ap- The judges said that al- only athlete aff ected by rules preciation.” though the rules are “discrim- compelling female runners in Meanwhile, Al Gharafa coach Christian Gourcuff said inatory...such discrimina- certain categories to cap their aving won three top honours at Qatar Football his players will have to be fully focused to get the better of tion is a necessary, reasonable testosterone levels at fi ve na- Association’s awards gala on Tuesday, Al Sadd a team like Al Sadd and proportionate means of nomoles per litre (nmol/L) of will not be short on motivation as they take on “Playing against a team like Al Sadd is not easy. We achieving the IAAF’s aim of blood. Al Gharafa in the quarter-fi nals of the prestig- drew one game against them in the league but lost the preserving the integrity of fe- Caster Semenya has 30 Hious Amir Cup at the Abdulla bin Khalifa Stadium in Du- other. But we have shown that we are capable of produc- male athletics in the Restrict- days to challenge the decision hail. ing a good fi ght on several occasions,” said Gourcuff . ed Events.” to dismiss her appeal against After several elimination rounds, the country’s most Asked why Al Gharafa’s form keeps fl uctuating wildly In a statement issued by restrictions being placed on lucrative football tournament has reached its business between games, Gourcuff said it was a mystery even to her lawyers, the 28-year-old female athletes with elevated end with the top four teams in the QNB Stars League him. double Olympic champion Se- levels of testosterone — but the placed directly in the quarter-fi nals where they will meet “I do not know exactly, but we know that this is the last menya said that “for a decade timescale for choices over her rivals who have survived the chop over the past couple of championship of the season and we are trying to win it. the IAAF has tried to slow me career direction is far shorter. weeks. If we do not win it, we have to fi nish the season well,” the down.” The 28-year-old South Af- But despite the supposed uncertainty of cup tourna- Frenchman said. “But this has actually made rican can appeal the CAS rul- ments, none of the lower division teams have progressed me stronger. The decision of ing at the Swiss Federal Tri- to the quarter-fi nals, underlining the primacy of the QNB the CAS will not hold me back. bunal within 30 days, and she Stars League. AL DUHAIL WELL PREPARED I will once again rise above might well take that option. That said Al Sadd coach Jesualdo Ferreira, who was ad- Al Duhail’s preparations have been top notch, coach and continue to inspire young Some observers suggest she judged the best coach in Qatar on Tuesday, was not taking Rui Faria says, as the Qatar giants take on Al Shahania in women and athletes in South might then contemplate taking his team’s match against Al Gharafa lightly. the quarter-fi nals of the Amir Cup today. Africa and around the world.” the case to the European Court “We are going to face Al Gharafa in the quarter-fi nal Al Duhail are aware that they need to win the Amir Cup South Africa, which has ac- of Justice. of the Amir’s Cup and this match is going to be diff er- to redeem their season, after playing second fi ddle to Al cused the IAAF of seeking to But in the meantime, the ent from our clash in the league because it’s a knockout Sadd in the QNB Stars League. violate women’s bodies, said IAAF says that if she wants to game,” said the veteran Portuguese tactician. “We have prepared well for the Amir Cup. We have it was “disappointed” with the defend her 800m title at the “The Al Sadd players are fresh from winning the league many matches coming up with the AFC Champions judgement. world championships in Doha and they are now full of spirit to play in the Amir’s Cup. League group phase also in a crucial stage,” Faria said at The IAAF said it was “grate- in September, Semenya needs We could have fi ve games coming up in 20 days (also in- his pre-match press conference yesterday. ful” for the verdict and that to start taking medication im- cluding their AFC Champions League matches) and this “Now we have to think about reaching the semi-fi nals. the DSD rules — fi rst adopted mediately to show signifi cant needs great preparations. We at Al Sadd have to play do- Step by step is our goal. We can’t start thinking about the last year but suspended pend- change within seven days and mestically and in Asia as well, and this is not easy for the fi nal.” ing the legal battle — will come then maintain it below a set team and players.” Faria added that the players are committed to Al Du- into aff ect on May 8. level continuously. He added: “We will fi ght for the win and a spot in the hail’s cause. The athletics governing The IAAF also quickly dis- semi-fi nal. I have won the Cup with Al Sadd before. The “The players doing their best. They are intense in body has maintained that the missed CAS’s advice that the tournament is very important for us. The match against Al Sadd star Akram Afif with his best player trophy on training and they are getting used to my methods. The rules are necessary to ensure restrictions should not apply Al Gharafa is going to be tough, especially as they have Tuesday. coaches sometimes need a season or two, but so far things all female athletes can see “a yet to the 1,500m, where Se- good players and a good coach.” are going well. We need patience because we are prepar- path to success”. menya won bronze at the last Ferreira added that the prospect of playing the fi nal at Ferreira was all praise for Akram Afi f and Baghdad ing for the future.” It has stressed that DSD world championships in Lon- the brand new Al Wakrah Stadium on May 16 will provide Bounedjah who also won top awards on Tuesday. athletes with male levels of don two years ago. some extra motivation for the team. Afi f was adjudged the best player while Bounedjah QUARTER-FINAL FIXTURES testosterone benefi t from In other words, if Semenya “Our aim is to play at the (new) Al Wakrah Stadium, bagged a special award for being the top scorer in the Today: 5:15pm: Al Shahania vs Al Duhail; 8pm: Al increased bone and muscle wants to race her preferred after having played the fi nal at the Khalifa Stadium be- QNB Stars League with 39 goals. Gharafa vs Al Sadd strength similar to men who distances, she needs to start fore. We want to reach the fi nal and meet His Highness “It is not easy to manage, especially when you’re play- Tomorrow: 5:15pm: Al Ahli vs Al Sailiya; 8pm: Al Ara- have gone through puberty. taking the suppressant medi- the Amir,” he emphasised. ing in diff erent tournaments. I want to congratulate bi vs Al Rayyan While the court said there cation right away. Gulf Times 2 Thursday, May 2, 2019 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT Emery turns to Europa League to salvage Arsenal’s season

AFP semi-fi nal opponents, Valencia, who he London managed between 2008 and 2012. Emery also did a stellar job at the Mestalla, leading Valencia to three con- nai Emery’s fi rst season in secutive third-placed fi nishes behind charge at Arsenal is in danger dominant Barcelona and Real Madrid of imploding unless the Span- sides managed by Pep Guardiola and iard can again prove himself to Jose Mourinho. “Emery was inducted Ube a Europa League specialist and cover into the Valencia hall of fame as one of up an alarming dip in the Gunners’ Pre- the managers to have spent most time mier League form. Arsenal have lost at Valencia, qualifying the team for the four of their past fi ve league games to Champions League and performing Everton, Crystal Palace, Wolverhamp- well in it,” Valencia-based journalist ton Wanderers and Leicester City to Luis Cortes said. However, doubts re- slip down to fi fth and relying on more main over his ability to lead Arsenal’s favours from Chelsea or Tottenham to rebuild back to the heights they once have any chance of a top-four fi nish. enjoyed under Wenger. However, winning the Europa League The same defensive issues that would also off er a much-needed return haunted the Frenchman’s fi nal years in to the Champions League next sea- charge have been in evidence in recent son after a two-year absence. For 20 weeks, conceding three times in three years under Arsene Wenger, Arsenal consecutive league defeats for the fi rst enjoyed the riches and the glamour of time since 1967. Emery has constantly the Champions League and the impact changed personnel and formations, of missing out has had serious implica- but is yet to fi nd the right balance with Arsenal players during a training session yesterday, on the eve of their Europa League match against Valencia. (Reuters) tions on the budget Emery has had to one of his two star forwards Alexandre work with. Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubam- the Europa League quarter-fi nals. Ar- fi nish in the top four),” said Emery after Europa League to save a disappointing day and wants to mark Valencia’s cen- In January, he revealed the club could eyang often left out. Yet, there have senal go into the fi nal two games of the the weekend’s chastening 3-0 defeat at domestic season. A shock 1-0 home de- tenary year in style. “I want to be in the not aff ord to make any permanent sign- been notable successes. league season just two points off the top Leicester. “We will continue, we will feat to Eibar on Saturday leaves Los Che history of Valencia,” said the Brazilian. ings. Emery is a specialist in Europe’s Top-four rivals Tottenham, Chelsea four, compared to languishing 12 points not look at the table, the Europa League sixth in La Liga and three points outside “It is the year of the centenary and in second-tier competition, winning it and Manchester United were all beaten behind in Wenger’s fi nal season. is a big motivation for us.” the top four with three games left. 100 years’ time I want people to re- three times when at Sevilla, and he is at the Emirates this season and Emery’s “At the beginning of the season we Valencia fi nd themselves in a similar Former Arsenal defender Gabriel member that Gabriel Paulista won the also well acquainted with Arsenal’s men won home and away to Napoli in knew it was going to be very diffi cult (to situation to Arsenal in looking at the Paulista will return to the Emirates to- Europa League with Valencia,” he said

EUROPA LEAGUE FOCUS Emery confi rms Sarri urges Chelsea Ramsey has played last Arsenal game AFP London to fi nish on a high nai Emery confi rmed yesterday that in- jured Wales midfi elder Chelsea are favourites as they take on unheralded Eintracht in the semi-finals Aaron Ramsey has Umade his last appearance for Ar- AFP senal ahead of his move to Juven- London tus. Ramsey has already agreed to make a lucrative switch to Ital- ian champion Juventus when his aurizio Sarri has challenged Arsenal contract expires at the Chelsea to secure an upbeat end of the season. fi nish to a turbulent season The 28-year-old suff ered a that plunged the club into hamstring injury during the Mchaos and threatened to cost the Italian second leg of Arsenal’s Europa his job. Sarri’s side travel to Eintracht League quarter-fi nal victory over is a blow to the Gunners’ bid to Frankfurt in the Europa League semi-fi - Napoli and has now been ruled qualify for next season’s Cham- nal fi rst leg today knowing they are fi ve out for the rest of the season. pions League either by winning matches away from rescuing their trou- Emery’s side host Valencia in the the Europa League or fi nishing in bled campaign. Europa League semi-fi nal fi rst the Premier League’s top four. The Blues sit fourth in the Premier leg today, having lost all three Arsenal are planning to hold League with just two games left in the bat- games without Ramsey since he a guard of honour for both the tle to qualify for the Champions League. was forced off in Naples. midfi elder and team-mate retir- Chelsea are two points above fi fth placed But, even if Arsenal reach the ing goalkeeper Petr Cech after Arsenal and three ahead of sixth placed fi nal on May 29, Emery conceded Sunday’s match against Brighton Manchester United, with games against the game would come too quickly at the Emirates Stadium — their Watford and Leicester to come. for Ramsey to be involved. Asked fi nal Premier League home game They are also favourites to secure a if there was any chance of Ram- of the season. Europa League fi nal berth after being sey playing one last game for Ar- Laurent Koscielny has played handed a last four clash with unheralded senal, Emery told reporters yes- alongside Ramsey since join- Eintracht. Booking a place in the Cham- terday: “At the moment we are ing from Lorient in 2010 and, in pions League, either by winning the Eu- only in the semi-fi nal, and sec- a jibe at previous Arsenal play- ropa League or fi nishing in the Premier ondly the prognosis is not okay ers who have left the club during League’s top four, would be a signifi cant for this date. He is important for that time, the Gunners defender achievement given the self-infl icted us. We cannot use him and the hailed his team-mate’s attitude wounds Chelsea have endured this term. danger is always there for a for- since his move to Juventus was After a painful period that saw reports ward player like that. announced. he was on the verge of being sacked, Chelsea star Eden Hazard (second right) trains with his teammates in Cobham, Britain, yesterday. (Reuters) “We have players who can play “Of course he played so may Chelsea boss Sarri has managed to keep in that position, but he was in a years here, so important for the his job while guiding the west Londoners United. It has been a baptism of fi re for early bouquets quickly turned to brick- was a plus, but Sarri’s decision to recruit good moment when he had this club and the players because eve- towards a season-salvaging fi nale. Urg- Sarri since his move from Napoli last year bats after Chelsea stumbled badly in the his former Napoli striker Gonzalo Hi- injury. For me it was a good expe- ry season we start the season and ing his players to fi nish the job, Sarri said: and the 60-year-old has looked increas- unforgiving winter months. guain on loan from Juventus has back- rience to work with every player we have new players, and I think “We are fi ghting for the top four and in ingly frazzled by the experience. His frus- Sarri’s players grew frustrated by his fi red. Angered at their team’s decline, and with him especially, because he gives a lot for the adaptation semi-fi nal of the Europa League. We have tration fi nally boiled over in last week’s rigid game-plan and his monotonous Chelsea fans have turned on Sarri several he can transmit his energy and he of the new players,” he said. done a good season. Now we need to take tetchy draw against Burnley when he re- training sessions, with his reliance on times, most notably in the FA Cup de- showed me his heart is red with “What I like about Aaron is two very important targets.” sponded to some ripe language from the the under-whelming Jorginho as his de- feat against Manchester United when he Arsenal. I wanted to enjoy with that, we know he signed for Ju- Achieving those goals is likely to be a Clarets bench with a blast at the offi cials fensive midfi eld lynchpin especially vex- was subjected to vitriolic abuse from the him. I said to him one month ago ventus, but he is still a profes- fraught journey on the evidence of Chel- which saw him sent off and subsequently ing given the quality N’Golo Kante had Stamford Bridge stands. that I wanted to do something sional and always fi ghts for the sea’s rollercoaster campaign. Even now fi ned by the Football Association for mis- shown in a similar role in previous sea- Yet from the rubble of Chelsea’s shat- important in his last matches club and for the team. Some- the problems keep coming for Sarri after conduct. On that occasion Sarri could say sons. Sarri’s attempts to solve Chelsea’s tered dreams, Sarri has an opportunity with us at the moment — maybe times you have players who have Antonio Rudiger was ruled out for the he was provoked, but he had only himself attacking woes by playing Eden Hazard for survival. Despite drawing their last he can come back in the future.” stopped fi ghting for this team, rest of the season with a knee injury. The to blame for many of Chelsea’s woes. as a makeshift centre forward irritated two league games, Chelsea’s top four bid Ramsey, who won three FA but I think he has loved this club Germany defender is understood to be set It all started so well for Sarri as Chel- the Belgian winger and rarely proved suc- is still in their own hands, while they Cups with Arsenal, is expected to and that is why he stayed at 100 for an operation in Italy, having limped sea kicked off the season with an 18-game cessful anyway. Shipping out the woeful are within touching distance of Europa be fi t in time to start pre-season per cent for us. It shows a great out of Sunday’s 1-1 draw at Manchester unbeaten run in all competitions. But the Alvaro Morata on loan to Atletico Madrid League success. with Juventus, but his absence mentality and character.”

SERIE A Troubled PSG throw away lead again to lose at Montpellier AFP mas Tuchel. “In these conditions it is diffi cult half as Damien Le Tallec’s header from a Florent Paris to win a match at Montpellier, who are a very Mollet free-kick was turned into his own net by strong and aggressive team defensively.” Kimpembe, who had also scored an own goal in This latest defeat will increase the pressure on the Cup fi nal. aris Saint-Germain’s end-of-sea- Tuchel, whose future has been called into ques- The home side tested Gianluigi Buff on in the son meltdown continued on Tuesday tion with his team’s domestic slump follow- PSG goal on several other occasions but it was night as the Ligue 1 champions twice ing their humiliating Champions League exit the visitors who scored again just after the hour threw away the lead in a 3-2 defeat at against Manchester United. PSG threw away mark. A clearance by Montpellier’s 41-year-old Montpellier,P three days after dramatically losing a two-goal lead in Saturday’s French Cup fi nal captain Vitorino Hilton came back off Marquin- the French Cup fi nal. before losing on penalties to Rennes. hos and the ball fell to Di Maria, who cleverly Souleymane Camara netted Montpellier’s Kylian Mbappe was sent off in that game, dragged the ball away from the diving Benjamin winner fi ve minutes from time after Leandro while Neymar later apologised after hitting a Lecomte and fi nished into an empty net. Paredes was caught in possession on the edge of fan who taunted the Brazilian as he went up to Nevertheless, Montpellier drew level again his own area. Before that, Presnel Kimpembe’s collect his runners-up medal. Neymar started in 10 minutes from the end as Mollet helped on a own goal had cancelled out an Ambroise Oyongo Montpellier, but Mbappe was absent due to sus- long throw-out by Lecomte, releasing Delort own goal that had given PSG the lead. pension, with several other players also absent. to run through and beat Buff on. Worse was to Angel Di Maria put the visitors back in front, “The situation is always the same. We only come for PSG, though. Buff on rolled the ball but Andy Delort made it 2-2 before Camara have 15 players because everyone is injured,” out to Paredes on the edge of his own area, but sealed the points. PSG wrapped up their sixth moaned Tuchel. “This has been the situation the Argentine dithered and was robbed, allow- league title in seven seasons a week ago, but this since January, February, and it’s too long.” ing substitute Camara to gleefully fi re into the result means they have won one and lost three of When Cameroon defender Oyongo turned in net. Despite this victory, Montpellier’s chances their last fi ve league games. Juan Bernat’s low cross early on, it looked like of qualifying for the Europa League remain slim Montpellier’s players celebrate after their win over Paris Saint-Germain in the French Ligue 1 at the “We made individual errors, too many of PSG might get back to winning ways. However, as they sit fi ve points adrift of fourth-placed Mosson stadium in Montpellier, southern France, on Tuesday night. (AFP) them, and big mistakes,” lamented coach Tho- Montpellier equalised midway through the fi rst Saint-Etienne with four games left. Gulf Times Thursday, May 2, 2019 3 FOOTBALL

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Pochettino accepts blame aft er ‘sloppy’ Spurs lose to Ajax ‘I am not happy, but our lack of energy from the beginning made our game diff icult. We were a little sloppy’

AFP London

ottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino admitted he was at fault as Ajax closed in on a fi rst Champions League fi nal for 23 yearsT thanks to Donny van de Beek’s early goal to win the fi rst leg of their semi-fi nal 1-0 on Tuesday night. Van de Beek’s opener on 15 minutes was just reward for the Dutch side’s fi rst-half dominance as Tottenham badly missed the presence of the in- jured Harry Kane and suspended Son Heung-min. Tottenham improved after the break despite another injury blow as Jan Vertonghen had to be helped down the tunnel after a sickening head knock, but lacked the inspiration need- ed to get back on level terms without their two top scorers. “Watching now of course I can accept it was a mistake the shape we used. But there were not too many options,” said Pochettino. “I am not happy, but our lack of energy from the beginning made our game diffi cult. We were a little sloppy.” Ajax had shown they are not fazed on the road despite the tender age of many of their squad by shocking Real Madrid and Juventus away to reach the last four and started confi dently. Hakim Ziyech’s through ball picked out mid- fi elder Van de Beek who took his time to leave Hugo Lloris prone before slotting into the bottom corner. “I think it was an amazing evening, an amazing result,” said Ajax coach Erik ten Hag. “In the beginning we very strong, we were completely dominating the game and we made a fantastic goal.” Ajax’s Dutch midfielder Donny van de Beek scores against Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in north London on Tuesday night. (AFP) Lloris kept his side in the game 10 minutes later from another Van de Beek Harry Winks and lost another key “I wasn’t involved,” insisted Pochet- desired eff ect as Spurs dug deep into Ajax did not make the most of their pity. But winning 1-0 in Tottenham is eff ort as Ajax threatened to run riot. player when Vertonghen came off worst tino. “It is the doctors’ decision. I think their energy reserves to raise the tempo chances on the break to kill the tie an amazing result. We know we can do “The way we conceded the goal was as he contested a high ball with Ajax (the health of the player) is so impor- and intensity of their display after the off , but were unfortunate when David a lot better next week to fi nish it off .” so painful, I think we were so poor in goalkeeper Andre Onana and teammate tant, the protocol is there and our med- break. Yet, the quality needed in the fi - Neres’s eff ort back across Lloris left the Son will be back for the trip to Am- this action,” added Pochettino. “They Toby Alderweireld. ical staff follow the protocol.” nal third to get back on level terms was French captain helpless only for the ball sterdam next Wednesday and Spurs showed more energy than us, but I The Belgian was patched up and Despite that latest blow, the hosts missing without Kane and Son. to rebound back off the post. “We could will hope the South Korean can repeat think after 30 minutes we started to briefl y returned to the fi eld before hav- reacted well to end the half on top with “We arrived in the last third but we have kept the ball more and played his double away to Manchester City in equalise the game.” ing to be helped down the tunnel lead- Vertonghen’s replacement Moussa Sis- didn’t fi nd a way to create clear chanc- calmer and that creates opportunities,” the last eight, but Ajax are in pole posi- On top of Kane and Son, Spurs were ing to questions over why the Spurs soko driving a long-range eff ort wide. es,” continued Pochettino. “Always we said Ten Hag. “With for instance Neres tion for a fi nal against Barcelona or Liv- shorn of the injured Erik Lamela and medical staff allowed him to continue. Pochettino’s half-time pep talk had the missed the last pass or shot.” that he didn’t score that was such a erpool come June 1 in Madrid.

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Ex-Spain goalkeeper Casillas Spurs followed protocol aft er Vertonghen stable aft er heart attack suff ered head injury, says Pochettino AFP AFP Lisbon London

eteran goalkeeper Iker auricio Pochettino insists Tot- Casillas was stable in tenham’s medical staff followed hospital after suff ering concussion protocols after Jan a heart attack in train- Vertonghen was controversially Ving, his club Porto said yesterday. Mallowed to return to the pitch despite suf- The 37-year-old, who has 167 fering a serious-looking head injury in the Spain caps and played more than Champions League semi-fi nal loss to Ajax. 500 games for Real Madrid, suf- The defender has since been given the all- fered what the Portuguese club clear by Spurs, who say he has not suff ered a called an “acute myocardial inf- concussion, and walked unaided out of the arction” in training yesterday. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium after his side The club’s statement yes- lost the fi rst leg 1-0 on Tuesday. terday afternoon said that “the But questions remain over the fi rst-half training session was interrupted incident against Vertonghen’s former club to provide assistance,” adding Ajax, when a clash of heads with teammate that Casillas was in a Porto hos- Toby Alderweireld left him bloodied and in pital “well, stable and his heart need of treatment. problem solved.” Dawn Astle, daughter of former West Portuguese media reported Brom and England forward Jeff , who died that Casillas had undergone in 2002 of a degenerative brain disease, ex- surgery and that his season was pressed her shock on Twitter accompanied over. Porto are second in the Por- with images of a bloodied Vertonghen laying tuguese championship, just two on the pitch, saying: “I literally cannot be- points behind leaders Benfi ca, lieve what I’ve just seen.” and face Sporting Lisbon in the Brain injury charity Headway called for Portuguese Cup fi nal on May 25. football’s authorities to introduce “tem- The news prompted an out- Iker Casillas suff ered what his Portuguese club Porto called an “acute porary concussion substitutions” to allow pouring of concern from fans, myocardial infarction” in training yesterday. (AFP) medical staff to make proper assessments clubs former teammates and op- of injured players. Referee Antonio Mateu ponents. “Courage my friend. I with Porto to next year with the and his partner, Spanish jour- Lahoz spoke to Spurs’ medical staff before hope you recover quickly,” former option of an additional year. In nalist Sara Carbonero, have two allowing the defender to return to the fi eld, Real teammate Cristiano Ron- addition to a raft of domestic sons: Martin (5) and Lucas (2). only for the 32-year-old to quickly go off aldo posted on Instagram. Spain honours with Real and Porto, Madrid wished their former again. Tottenham boss Pochettino had to teammate Gerard Pique tweeted: Casillas has won one World Cup, captain a full recovery. “Real put his arm around Vertonghen to help keep “Courage Iker, get well soon my two European Championships Madrid would like to off er all our the groggy defender up before he was carried friend!” Former England striker and three Champions Leagues. support to our beloved captain away after appearing to retch by the touch- Gary Lineker tweeted: “Wishing He said Porto had told him of Iker Casillas. Throughout his line. A Spurs offi cial told Britiain’s Press As- A clash of heads with teammate Toby Alderweireld left Tottenham Hotspur’s Belgian @IkerCasillas a full and speedy they wanted to keep him until he professional career, he always sociation after the match that the defender defender Jan Vertonghen (left) bloodied and in need of treatment. (AFP) recovery. turned 40. overcame the hardest challenges was fi ne and had passed all concussion tests, One of the greats.” Casillas joins a growing list of in order to bring glory to our although Vertonghen will have more assess- cedures across all of its competitions fol- de Beek’s 15th-minute eff ort in north Lon- Tennis star Rafael Nada and players who have suff ered heart club,” Real said in a statement. ments over the coming days. lowing approval by the Executive Commit- don, where David Neres hit the post late on Spanish Prime Minister Pedro attacks. The most recent fatal “He has taught us to never give Pochettino said: “I wasn’t involved. That tee in September 2014. Champions League as Spurs pushed for an equaliser. Sanchez, both Real Madrid fans, attack came last week, when ex- up and has shown us numerous was the doctor’s decision. I think (the health regulations state: “Any player suff ering a Luke Griggs, spokesman for Headway, also sent their support. “Real perienced Burundi international times that the best way to win is of the player) is so important, the protocol is head injury that requires assessment for said: “We believe the time has come for Madrid and its supporters wish Papy Faty died after collapsing to remain as strong as possible there and our medical staff follow the pro- potential concussion will only be allowed to football to introduce temporary concussion to see their eternal captain re- during an eSwatini (formerly when times are tough. Real Ma- tocol.” continue playing after the assessment, on substitutions that would allow for longer cover as soon as possible and Swaziland) league match, the drid and all our fans wish him a The Spurs manager said the medical specifi c confi rmation by the team doctor to off -pitch assessments to be conducted.” send him all the support of the Burundi football federation said speedy recovery and send him all staff would always be the “boss” in such the referee of the player’s fi tness to do so.” Griggs added: “It is hugely disappointing world,” the club said. on Friday. our support.” situations and that he would have made the Tottenham were criticised in November that we are once again talking about con- Casillas joined Real before he The most high-profi le re- A tweet on the Spain team’s change sooner had he been instructed to. 2013 after goalkeeper Hugo Lloris was al- cussion rather than the game itself. Concus- turned 10 and played 16 seasons cent case was former captain of offi cial account said: “All the Asked after the match how Vertonghen was, lowed to remain on the pitch against Everton sion is notoriously diffi cult to diagnose. The with the fi rst team before moving Fiorentina Davide Astori, who family at the national team and Pochettino said: “Now is OK, now is good. after being knocked out in a collision with symptoms may be hidden and require the to Porto in 2015. The former Spain died of a heart attack in his sleep the Spanish football federation He was walking away, was more relaxed. Romelu Lukaku’s knee and initially being individual to be honest about how they’re captain turns 38 later in May and prior to a Serie A match with are with you Iker Casillas. Get Hope it is not a big issue.” unable to remember where he was. Lloris, in feeling, while they can also be delayed in recently extended his contract Udinese in March 2018. Casillas well soon.” UEFA implemented new concussion pro- goal on Tuesday, could not stop Donny van their presentation.” Gulf Times 4 Thursday, May 2, 2019 CRICKET

IPL ANNOUNCEMENT Sangakkara named as fi rst non-British Dhoni leads CSK to MCC president

Reuters thoroughly looking forward London to,” the 41-year-old said in a statement. MCC was founded in 1787 and has been based at ormer Sri Lanka cap- Lord’s, which it owns, since the top with 80-run tain Kumar Sangakkara 1814. It is the guardian of the has been named as the Laws of the game. fi rst non-British presi- “For me, MCC is the great- dentF of Marylebone Cricket est cricket club in the world, Club (MCC) and will take up with its global reach and con- his one-year post in October. tinued progress for cricket on Sangakkara’s nomination and off the pitch,” added San- was announced by current gakkara. victory over Delhi president, Anthony Wreford, “The year 2020 is going to at the MCC annual general be yet another signifi cant one ‘It’s really going to aff ect us. The way we played was not expected’ meeting at Lord’s yesterday. in cricket, especially at Lord’s, Former Sri Lanka wicket- and I am thrilled that I am go- keeper-batsman Sangakkara, ing to be able to play a part in Chennai Super Kings’ captain MS Dhoni (centre) celebrates the wicket of who scored 12,400 runs in supporting its future as Presi- Delhi Capitals Amit Mishra (left) during their 2019 Indian Premier League 134 tests, appears twice on the dent of MCC.” match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai yesterday. (AFP) honours boards at Lord’s. Sangakkara’s tenure will He hit 147 in the drawn Test include another busy year against England in 2014, and at Lord’s next year, with two 112 in Sri Lanka’s one-day in- England test matches against ternational win on the same West Indies and Pakistan and tour. the launch of The Hundred - “It is a huge honour to be the England and Wales Cricket named the next President of Board’s new 100-ball cricket MCC and it is a role that I am format.

Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara.

IANS opener just before the end of for a 34-run unbroken stand for ‘Pandya will do great things for Indian cricket’ SPOTLIGHT Chennai Powerplay, and in the next over, the fi fth wicket. Dhoni contin- Tahir saw the back of Rishabh ued his love aff air with last overs, Kieron Pollard yesterday and try to use his youthful exu- Pant (5), it was all over for DC as smashing Trent Boult for two heaped praise on his Mumbai berance to make an impact on ll-round Chennai Su- they lost wickets in a hurry. sixes off the last two balls and a Indians (MI) teammate Hardik the game,” Pollard explained. Pakistan’s Shadab per Kings (CSK) rode Dhoni showed exceptional re- four earlier as the New Zealana Pandya, saying the fellow all- “I am sure that even if there is MS Dhoni’s brilliance fl ex even at the age of 37 to eff ect pacer conceded 21 runs. rounder has the potential to do something technical that he has to get back to the top two stumpings which cost the The defending champions ‘great things’ for India. worked on, he wouldn’t want to fi ghts hepatitis ofA the table with a commanding wickets of Iyer and Chris Morris, could manage only 27/1 in the “He is a small guy but hits (the put that out in the media. If he 80-run victory over Delhi Capi- both off Ravindra Jadeja’s bowl- Powerplay overs after losing ball) a long way. If he continues is working on his game, he does tals (DC) in a top-of-the-table ing. Jadeja was excellent with the Shane Watson for a duck, with J to practice well and evolve as it in private. He wants you guys ahead of World Cup Indian Premier League (IPL) ball too, with fi gures of 3/9 in his Suchith (2/28), playing his fi rst a cricketer, you can see him to see the results of his hard clash at the MA Chidambaram three overs. game, accounting for his wicket. doing great things, not just for work,” he added. AFP world renowned gastroenter- Stadium yesterday. “It’s really going to aff ect us. Raina and Du Plessis then as- Mumbai Indians, but also for Pollard also said that David Karachi ologist and hepatologist who Asked to bat fi rst, Dhoni fi rst The way we played was not ex- sociated for a 83 run partnership India,” Pollard said about Pan- Warner’s absence will help MI specialises in liver disease in helped CSK recover from a slow pected. It’s a good reality check,” but consumed 61 balls before Du dya on the eve of MI’s Indian when they take on SRH in a bid elite sportsmen and was put start to post 179/4 with an un- Delhi captain Shreyas Iyer said. Plessis was dismissed by Axar Premier League (IPL) match to secure a spot in the playoff s. akistan’s fast-rising on medication,” said a PCB re- beaten 22-ball 44. Earlier, Suresh Raina struck Patel, with Shikhar Dhawan tak- against Sunrisers Hyderabad “It’s an advantage, obviously. all-rounder Shadab lease. The World Cup winning, a half century but it was Dhoni ing the catch at long off . (SRH). Pandya, who has so far David (Warner) is a world-class Khan was yesterday After two weeks rest, Shad- former India captain then not who helped CSK post a competi- Raina, who brought up his 37th amassed 355 runs in 12 IPL player. He has shown what he battling to be fi t for ab will undergo another round only used his spinners to perfec- tive total on a wicket that wasn’t IPL fi fty in 34 balls, was removed Pthe World Cup after contract- of blood tests in Lahore after games this season, scored a can do. He was an integral part tion as they shared eight wickets easy for batting. by Suchith after Dhawan took blistering 91 off 34 balls against of Sunrisers Hyderabad’s cam- ing hepatitis, reportedly from which his availability for the among them, but eff ected two Chennai recovered from 53/1 a brilliant catch off balance but Kolkata Knight Riders at the paign. So, as an opponent, we a dentists’s non-sterilised in- World Cup will be assessed, a brilliant stumpings to skittle DC at the halfway stage as Dhoni once Dhoni was in the middle, Eden Gardens in MI’s last game feel good that he is not there. struments. PCB spokesman said. out for a paltry 99 in 16.2 overs. hit four fours and three sixes to and Jadeja hit a few lusty blows, on Sunday. “He’s not practising But having said that, I am sure The 20-year-old was last Shadab was included in Pa- Imran Tahir starred for the hosts, extend his rich form with the Chennai ensured their stuttering diff erently. It is all about believ- they have a lot of world-class month ruled out of Pakistan’s kistan’s 15-man preliminary returning fi gures of 4/12. bat. Jadeja’s quickfi re 25 off 10 start made no diff erence. ing in his ability. Obviously the talent in their armoury to back ongoing tour of England after World Cup squad announced With one game to go, CSK deliveries also helped as Delhi “It was a good batting eff ort situations he has been in, he it up. “There is (Martin) Guptill blood tests revealed he was last month. All ten teams in the have 18 points from 13 matches missed pace spearhead Kagiso after being 60 in ten overs. It’s had no choice but to go and hit who has done fantastically suff ering from hepatitis. Pa- tournament have until May 23 while Delhi remain on 16 points Rabada, who was rested, in the great fun to watch Tahir cel- and he has shown his power- well in the international level. kistan media reported that to change their squads for the from 13 outings. death overs. ebrate,” said captain Dhoni. game as well, so it’s good for Yes, they have lost Warner, Shadab contracted the virus World Cup which starts in Chasing 180 for victory, DC The visitors leaked 77 runs in him. Even when he came onto but we are not going to take during dental treatment in England and Wales from May were in the game till the time the fi nal fi ve overs after Raina BRIEF SCORES the scene, if you remember, he them lightly,” Pollard said. “We Rawalpindi. 30. Shikhar Dhawan (19) and skip- (59; 37b; 8x4;1x6) was dismissed Chennai Super Kings: 179/4 finished off a couple of games all know it’s a pressure game, The Pakistan Cricket Board A leg-spinner of great po- per Shreyas Iyer (44; 31b; 4x4; in the 15th over. (Suresh Raina 59, MS Dhoni for Mumbai (Indians) with his that’s the nature of the IPL. (PCB) said Shadab had a tential, Shadab has been Pa- 1x6) were at the crease. The pair In that period, Dhoni fi rst 44 not out; J Suchith 2/28) vs big hits. “It is matter of him So as players you don’t want check-up with a UK-based kistan’s key bowler in one-day stitched together a 48-run stand combined with Jadeja for a 43- Delhi Capitals: 99 all out in 16.2 having the confidence because to put additional pressure on doctor and was advised two internationals and Twenty20 for the second wicket. But once run partnership as both were overs (Shreyas Iyer 44; Imran he is one of those guys who is yourselves going into the last weeks rest. Cricket since his debut in 2017. Harbhajan Singh (1/28) castled promoted up the order, to then Tahir 4/12, Ravindra Jadeja 3/9, free-spirited and will just go out couple of games.” “Shadab had a check up He has 47 wickets in 34 ODIs the World Cup-bound India join hands with Ambati Rayudu Harbhajan Singh 1/28). with Dr Patrick Kennedy, a and 44 wickets in 32 T20Is.

FOCUS Call for ‘adaptable’ laws as rain dumps Kohli out of IPL AFP overs and Rajasthan were 41-1 off play-off s with one match to go. Bangalore 3.2 overs when rain stopped play. Delhi Capitals and Chennai Su- Former South African captain per Kings have already made the Shaun Pollock suggested the match play-off s while the remaining fi ve ricket pundits yesterday could have started earlier if more teams are still fi ghting to grab the called for fresh ideas to “adaptable” rules had allowed last two slots. prevent key games being bowlers to all use the same, drier “Sometimes the players have to abandoned without a re- end of the pitch. give a little bit and sometimes the sultC after Virat Kohli’s team crashed “When they looked at the pitch offi cials have to give a little bit,” out of the Indian Premier League and saw there was a water problem former India batsman Ajay Jadeja following a rain-hit match. could they not have reduced it to a said on the Cricbuzz chat show. Kohli-led Royal Challengers fi ve-over game (earlier) and played “Covers need to get better. We Bangalore were locked in a must- from one side?” he told the online still can’t be living in an era of un- win game against Rajasthan Royals Cricbuzz chat show. covered pitches. And there are peo- but the match was abandoned late “If you know rain is coming on ple who are providing you better Tuesday due to heavy downpours. the PGA (golf) tour they don’t tee covers, you just don’t want to spend After the start had been delayed off at one o’clock, they bring it on it.” by more than three hours due to forward then they make it two-tee Before the start of the match rains that left one end of the pitch start and begin at nine o’clock.” Kohli, the world’s number one Test sodden, organisers reduced the “We need to be a little more and ODI batsman, had rued losing match to the minimum fi ve-overs- adaptable. At the end of the day 10 out of 13 tosses in the current IPL a-side. both those teams needed those season. But further showers meant Ra- two points. Somehow a common “I was trying to practise the coin jasthan could not complete even sense rule should be implemented toss, nothing seems to be working,” that. at times.” Kohli joked. Indian leg-spinner Shreyas Bangalore, who have never won The world’s most popular T20 Gopal took a hat-trick to restrict the IPL, have nine points from 13 tournament ends with the fi nal in Captain of Royal Challengers Bangalore Virat Kohli (centre) and his teammates look on as rain delays the start of their 2019 Indian Premier Bangalore to 62 for seven in fi ve games and are out of the race for the Hyderabad on May 12. League match against Rajasthan Royals at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore on Tuesday. (AFP) Gulf Times Thursday, May 2, 2019 5 SPORT

NBA MLB Sabathia reaches 3,000 strikeouts, but Warriors hold off D’backs top Yankees

Reuters Sabathia joined Randy John- Washington son and Steve Carlton as the only left-handers with 3,000. He has 247 wins in a 19-year career and ankees left-hander CC would become the 14th pitcher Rockets for 2-0 lead, Sabathia struck out in major league history with 250 fi ve to become the 17th victories and 3,000 strikeouts. major-leaguer to record 3,000Y career strikeouts but was SURGING CARDINALS DUMP outduelled on his historic night SLUMPING NATIONALS by Zack Greinke, who won his Adam Wainwright gave up just fi fth straight in Arizona’s 3-1 two runs in 6 1/3 innings and the victory on Tuesday in Phoenix. St. Louis Cardinals used a big Bucks beat Celtics Sabathia, in his 19th and fi - fourth inning to beat the Wash- nal season, reached the plateau ington Nationals for the second ‘He got raked pretty good in the eyes. I’m sure he would have loved to have early, striking out the side in the night in a row, prevailing 3-2 on second inning. After Arizona’s Tuesday in the nation’s capital. played better, but under the circumstances I thought he played great’ Wilmer Flores hit his fi rst homer The Cardinals have won nine of the season for a 1-0 lead with of their last 10 games while the AFP tetokounmpo added to Milwau- two outs, Sabathia surrendered Nationals have lost eight of 11. Los Angeles kee’s 12-0 scoring run, broken a single to Nick Ahmed before Washington is 4-6 in one-run up by a three-pointer from Bos- getting John Ryan Murphy ton’s Aron Baynes. swinging on a 1-2 changeup evin Durant scored Antetokounmpo scored 15 for No. 3,000. RESULTS 29 points and Klay points in the period and the Greinke (5-1) gave up fi ve Yankees 3-1 D’backs Thompson added 21 Bucks closed the quarter on a hits and one run in 7 2/3 in- on Tuesday as the 24-2 scoring run that essential- nings with seven strikeouts Cardinals 3-2 Nationals KGolden State Warriors downed ly sealed Boston’s fate. and one walk. He made his Dodgers 10-3 Giants the Houston Rockets 115-109 in Marcus Morris led the Celt- sixth consecutive quality Astros 11-0 Twins a bruising NBA playoff clash. ics with 17 points as star guard start and dropped his ERA The reigning champion War- Kyrie Irving was held to nine to a season-low 3.27. Cubs 6-5 Mariners riors never trailed, but they had points - connecting on just four Gary Sanchez and Gley- Brewers 4-3 Rockies to battle to the end to take a 2-0 of 18 shots from the fi eld. ber Torres hit back-to- Red Sox 5-1 Athletics lead in the best-of-seven West- Antetokounmpo said the back doubles to open the ern Conference second-round Bucks will need to come up with fourth inning, snapping Padres 4-3 Braves series, which shifts to Houston more of the same when the se- Greinke’s 18-inning score- Tigers 3-1 Phillies for game three on Saturday. ries shifts to Boston for game less streak and tying the Angels 4-3 Blue Jays Both teams had injury scares three on Friday. “We’ve just got game at 1-1. Torres had two in the fi rst quarter, when Hou- to pick it up from where we left hits. Pirates 6-4 Rangers ston’s 2018 NBA Most Valuable off this game,” he said. Flores, who also had two Indians 7-4 Marlins Player James Harden departed “It’s pretty blurry right now,” hits, singled home Eduardo Mets 4-3 Reds with a left eye injury after he said Harden, who was swiped in Escobar with two outs in was inadvertently swiped in the the face by the Warriors’ Dray- the last of the fourth in- face by Draymond Green as they mond Green. ning off Sabathia (1-1), who gave games while St. Louis is 5-3. battled for the ball. “Hopefully it gets better day up two runs on fi ve hits and two Wainwright (3-2) gave up six Warriors guard Stephen Cur- by day,” added Harden, whose walks in 5 1/3 innings. hits and two walks while strik- ry left briefl y with a dislocated Rockets host game three of the Escobar had three hits - two ing out fi ve. Lefty reliever Tyler middle fi nger on his left hand, best-of-seven second-round doubles and a single - and Ke- Webb took over with two run- returning with it taped up be- Western Conference series on tel Marte doubled and scored an ners on and one out in the sev- fore the quarter ended. Saturday aiming to start digging insurance run on David Peralta’s enth and got Juan Soto to ground Harden returned in the sec- out of an 0-2 hole. eighth-inning sacrifi ce fl y. Es- into a double play to end the ond quarter, but appeared to Harden returned after receiv- cobar has 15 hits in his last 29 at- threat. John Gant followed with feel discomfort from the injury ing treatment - including drops bats for the Diamondbacks, who 1 1/3 scoreless innings, and An- during the game, sometimes to numb pain in his eyes - and have won 11 of 15. drew Miller got the last two outs squinting in the bright lights. led the Rockets with 29 points. Greg Holland pitched a 1-2-3 for his fi rst save. “He got raked pretty good in But despite the drops, he ninth inning for his sixth save. Cardinals veteran Yadier Mo- the eyes,” Houston coach Mike could be seen squinting and Flores’ homer came after Per- lina caught Wainwright for the D’Antoni said of Harden, who grimacing in the bright lights. alta and Christian Walker struck 248th time. That ties Tom Gla- fi nished with 29 points - in- “He got raked pretty good out on 90 mph pitches. After vine and Javy Lopez of the At- cluding 13 in the fourth quarter. in the eyes,” Rockets coach Ahmed beat out a single to fi rst lanta Braves for 10th most on “I’m sure he would have loved Mike D’Antoni said. “But that’s base, Sabathia fanned Murphy to the all-time list among battery- to have played better, but under him - I didn’t have a doubt he reach the milestone. Teammates mates (since 1908). Washington the circumstances I thought he was coming back unless it was entered the fi eld and applauded, starter Anibal Sanchez (0-4) played great.” something catastrophic.” and Sabathia was greeted by his went fi ve innings and allowed D’Antoni said he knew Hard- It certainly looked bad children near the Yankees’ dug- three runs on fi ve hits and two en would return to the contest enough as Harden dropped to out. John Smoltz (3,084), Curt walks with seven strikeouts. unless the injury was “cata- the court and stayed there - a Schilling (3,116) and Bob Gib- Adam Eaton and Victor Robles strophic” but even with their hand to his eyes - until the son (3,117) are next on the list. hit back-to-back homers in the superstar on the court the Rockets called a timeout so he Smoltz was the last pitcher reach third off Wainwright for a 2-0 Rockets couldn’t fi nd a way past could get medical treatment. 3,000, getting there with Atlanta lead. It was the second time this the Warriors. Green spoke to Harden as he on April 22, 2008. season the Nati “Tonight we just stayed the departed the court with a com- course,” Thompson said. press on his face. Houston trimmed a 15-point Green said he just wanted to defi cit to three points in the check on Harden after the inad- fourth quarter, but their 18 vertent contact. turnovers, leading to 24 Warri- “It’s not about hurting any- ors points, were ultimately too one out here,” Green said. costly. Kevin Durant of the Golden State Warriors shoots over Clint Capela of the Houston Rockets in Game Two of “A lot of people forget when Curry helped the Warriors’ the second round of the 2019 NBA Western Conference playoff s in Oakland, California. (Getty Images/AFP) a guy has an injury you live that cause with 20 points and Green every second of every day and contributed a double-double of ics in the Eastern Conference tough when a team comes into Middleton made fi ve of his it’s not just about this game. So 15 points and 12 rebounds along series opener, weren’t about to your home and gets the two fi rst three-pointers before halftime if his eye is messed up, he’s got with seven assists. allow a repeat. games so we had that in the back as Milwaukee took a 59-55 lead to live that every day, so I want- “We had our chances toward Antetokounmpo scored 29 of our minds. We came out, we into the break. He added an- ed to check on the guy.” the end,” D’Antoni said. “They points and pulled down 10 re- played hard, we moved the ball, other couple of three-pointers made big plays.” bounds and Khris Middleton we trusted one another and early in the third before An- RESULTS FROM THE SECOND Giannis Antetokounmpo and connected on seven of 10 from that’s why we got a win.” tetokounmpo took charge. ROUND OF THE PLAYOFFS the Milwaukee Bucks bounced three-point range on the way to The Bucks drained a club Milwaukee’s Most Valuable (all series best-of-seven) back with a vengeance Tuesday, 28 points as the Bucks regained playoff record 20 three-pointers Player candidate drove the lane Eastern Conference routing the Boston Celtics 123- home court advantage in the and clamped down defensively, to earn a pair of free-throws, Boston 102 Milwaukee 123 102 to knot their NBA playoff best-of-seven series. seizing control with 35 points made a three-pointer and then (Series tied 1-1) series at one game apiece. “We got an ass-whipping in in the third quarter in a game in assisted on Ersan Ilyasova’s Western Conference New York Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia throws the 3000th strikeout The top-seeded Bucks, who game one, so we had to get game which they led by as many as 30 jump shot. A tip-in basket and Houston 109 Golden State 115 of his career against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the second inning fell 112-90 at home to the Celt- two,” Antetokounmpo said. “It’s points. another free-throw from An- (Golden State leads series 2-0) at Chase Field. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

NHL Couture’s hat-trick gives Sharks series edge over Avs Reuters bauer with 30 seconds left on stole Colorado defenseman Erik against average in the playoff s. New York the man advantage but couldn’t Johnson’s stretch pass at the red “It is a huge win for us.” score, and Couture iced it with line, skated in and beat Grubauer Boston had a power-play an empty-net goal at 19:30. It with a high wrister at 18:42 of chance with just under nine ogan Couture had a hat was his ninth of the playoff s the fi rst. It was Meier’s third of minutes left in the game, but a trick, including the tie- Colorado fell behind 2-0 but the playoff s. Patrice Bergeron tripping call 17 breaking goal in the third rallied to tie it. MacKinnon got seconds later negated the edge. period, and the San Jose the fi rst one when Ian Cole stole BLUE JACKETS EKE PAST The Blue Jackets continue to do LSharks beat the Colorado Ava- Brent Burns’ pass at centre ice BRUINS FOR 2-1 SERIES EDGE a good job containing Boston›s lanche 4-2 in Game 3 in of the and fed MacKinnon, who beat Matt Duchene and Boone Jenner star trio of Brad Marchand, Western Conference semifi nal se- Jones with a wrister at 15:51 of scored, Sergei Bobrovsky made David Pastrnak and Bergeron – ries in Denver on Tuesday night. the second. Nieto tied when he 36 saves, and the Columbus Blue who have a combined one point Timo Meier had a goal and two redirected a shot from the point Jackets beat the visiting Boston in the series. Though Boston assists, Gustav Nyquist had two by Samuel Girard. It was his Bruins 2-1 on Tuesday night to was aggressive in the off ensive assists and Martin Jones stopped fourth of the playoff s. take a two-games-to-one lead in end early, Columbus opened the 25 shots for the Sharks, who took The Sharks built a two- their Eastern Conference semifi - scoring with 1:23 left in the fi rst a 2-1 lead in the series. goal lead with a pair of goals nal series. period. Jenner slipped a shot Game 4 is Thursday night 3:18 apart in the fi rst. The fi rst The upstart Blue Jackets im- past an overcommitted Tuukka in Denver. Nathan MacKinnon came when Grubauer’s save on proved to 3-0 at home this Rask (32 saves) for his fi rst point and Matt Nieto scored goals and Nyquist’s shot bounced in front, postseason after holding on to of the series. Philipp Grubauer had 27 saves Couture gathered it and roofed a take the fi rst game of the series for the Avalanche. backhander to give San Jose a 1-0 settled in regulation. The Bruins, RESULTS After Colorado tied it at 11:45 lead at 15:24 of the fi rst period. who trailed 2-0 on Tuesday, of- (all series best-of-seven): of the third, Couture gave San Nyquist had rejoined the fered a spirited eff ort in the third Eastern Conference Jose the lead again when his shot Sharks in Denver late Tuesday period, but Bobrovsky continued Boston 1 Columbus 2 to the short side hit off the post afternoon after being away to be to be up to the task. (Columbus leads series 2-1) and went in at 12:50. with his wife for the birth of the «I thought we stayed together Western Conference San Jose Sharks centre Logan Couture (No 39) celebrates his hat-trick goal with teammates in the third The Avalanche got a power couple’s child. The Sharks added as a whole group,» said Bo- San Jose 4 Colorado 2 period against the Colorado Avalanche in game three of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup play- play at 17:04 and pulled Gru- to the lead soon after when Meier brovsky, who has a 1.88 goals- (San Jose leads series 2-1) off s at Pepsi Center. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Gulf Times 6 Thursday, May 2, 2019 SPORT

BOXING MOTORSPORT Alonso to leave Toyota WEC team Joshua to defend aft er Le Mans

Reuters second driver to complete the London so-called “Triple Crown of Motorsport.” “Now is a good time to take ernando Alonso will be on new challenges and there heavyweight titles replaced by New Zea- are many interesting op- lander Brendon Hart- portunities to explore within ley in the Toyota World Toyota Gazoo Racing,” said the EnduranceF Championship 37-year-old, who left Formula (WEC) team after the 24 Hours One last year. of Le Mans in June, the Japa- “We still have two impor- nese manufacturer announced tant races remaining as we yesterday. are still in the fi ght to become against Ruiz Jr in NY Toyota said twice Formula WEC World Champions and One world champion Alonso I will be pushing hard to win ‘It’s time to make history. On June 1 we’re going to make history’ “will explore new motorsport both of them.” adventures within the Toyota Hartley won Le Mans with Gazoo Racing family”. Porsche in 2017 and is a two- No details were given but time World Endurance cham- the Spaniard recently tested pion. He raced in Formula One a Toyota Dakar Rally car in with Toro Rosso last year. South Africa. The next edi- “I believe I am returning to tion of that race will be held in WEC an even stronger driver Saudi Arabia in January 2020. following my experience in Alonso won Le Mans with Formula One,” he said. Toyota last year and will be The 2019-20 WEC season trying to win the Indianapolis starts at Silverstone on Sept 1 500 with McLaren later this and runs to Le Mans on June month to become only the 14, 2020.

In this file photo taken on April 2, 2019, Former F1 driver and Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso leans on the car in McLaren’s garage during private tests at the Sakhir circuit in Manama. (AFP)

Monza set to stay on F1 calendar until 2024 The Italian Grand Prix at substantiated news circulat- Monza, Ferrari’s home race, ing this morning regarding is set to stay on the calendar the agreement of a new deal until at least 2024 after the for the British Grand Prix Automobile Club of Italy at Silverstone,” the circuit (ACI) and Formula One an- management said on Twitter. nounced an agreement in “At this time we can confirm Anthony Joshua during the media day at English Institute of Sport, Sheff ield, Britain, yesterday. (Reuters) principle. that we have not agreed a The ACI said its president An- contract, however talks are Reuters refused to sanction the fi ght af- other’s faces. I’m going in there The 29-year-old has a profes- “We have worked in the box- gelo Sticchi Damiani had been still progressing.” London ter Miller failed a drugs test. to throw combinations like I’ve sional record of 22 wins, which ing gym week on week and who- given a mandate to continue Britain and Italy are the only Ruiz is hoping to become never thrown before,” added includes 21 knockouts. ever was going to be put in front talks with Formula One on tech- two countries that have Mexico’s fi rst heavyweight Ruiz. Ruiz, also 29, has a record of of me at Madison Square Garden nical and commercial matters hosted a race in every year of eavyweight world world champion. “A lot of people underes- 32 wins, 21 by knockout, and was going to be dispatched in with the aim of signing a deal as the championship. Vietnam champion Anthony “It’s time to make history. On timated me. I’m used to that. one defeat - his loss coming style. The rent will be collected.” soon as possible. is due to make its debut next Joshua will defend his June 1 we’re going to make his- I’m not going in there scared or in a majority decision against Promoter Eddie Hearn said Monza was one of five circuits season with a race in Hanoi titles against Califor- tory,” he said in a YouTube inter- nervous. I’m going in there mad New Zealander Joseph Parker in Ruiz, who has looked more up for renewal after this season, while Zandvoort in the nia-basedH Mexican Andy Ruiz view with Matchroom Boxing. to take what’s mine.” Auckland in 2016 for the vacant paunchy than punchy in some the others being Spain, Britain, Netherlands looks likely to Jr in New York on June 1, the “I want to be one of those “I’m going to bring the titles WBO belt. recent photographs, could prove Germany and Mexico. return for the first time since Briton’s promoter announced greats like (Julio Cesar) Chavez, back to Mexico. I’m going to be Parker then lost that title to a tougher test than Miller. Britain’s Silverstone, which host- 1985. yesterday. (Mike) Tyson, (Evander) Holy- able to change my whole family’s Joshua in a unanimous points “Andy punches harder and is ed the first world championship The Motorsport.com website Joshua, the WBA, IBF, WBO fi eld, Lennox Lewis. I want to be lives, my life and all my kids.” decision in Cardiff in March last much faster. This is going to be a Grand Prix in 1950, denied on reported that Zandvoort could and IBO world champion, had in that category. This is my time, The fi ght will be 2012 Olympic year. war. Andy brings Mexican heart Friday that a deal was done to replace Barcelona on next been scheduled to fi ght Ameri- this is my chance.” super-heavyweight champion “Ruiz is a diff erent kind of but he will meet the best heavy- secure that race’s future. year’s calendar as the first can Jarrell Miller but the New “I think the fi ght is going toe- Joshua’s fi rst title bout outside challenge but one I embrace,” weight in the world in June,” said “Unfortunately there is un- race of the European season. York State Athletic Commission to-toe, two guys smashing each of Britain. said Joshua. the Briton.

FOCUS NFL Boxing must end controversies to Pro Football Hall of Famer Marchetti dies

Reuters the 1952 season. The Texans New York folded after a 1-11 season and end Olympics threat, says Nieva moved to Baltimore. A three- AFP “We felt it was very clear,” year starter after his tour in New Delhi Nieva said. India was certain ormer Baltimore Colts the U.S. Army, Marchetti was a Singh had won, and the coach defensive end and Pro two-way tackle and part of the said this is an example which Football Hall of Famer undefeated University of San oxing must quickly fi x showed the rules are “meaning- Gino Marchetti died Francisco team in 1951. “controversies” sur- less”. MondayF night. Confl icting rounding the sport to “It’s tough because it is not media reports listed his age as VIKINGS UNLIKELY TO keep its Olympic place black and white. It is a grey area 92 or 93. PICK UP WR TREADWELL’S whenB a decision is made next when it comes to close bouts.” The Hall of Fame confi rmed OPTION month, leading international At the 2014 Asian Games, In- the news, which was met by an The Minnesota Vikings are coach Santiago Nieva said on dia’s Sarita Devi refused to ac- outpouring of support for the expected to decline the fi fth- Tuesday. cept her bronze medal and tried family in Indianapolis and Bal- year option for wide receiver The International Olympic to hang it on her Korean rival timore. A veteran of the Battle Laquon Treadwell by Friday’s Committee is to deliver its ver- instead, who won the women’s of the Bulge against Nazi Ger- deadline, according to the St dict on May 22 on whether to semi-fi nal on a unanimous deci- many, Marchetti was a nine- Paul Pioneer Press. keep boxing at the 2020 Tokyo sion. time All-Pro and 11-time Pro The option on Treadwell for Games. Devi – who dumped the med- Bowl selection. The Colts won the 2020 season would be for Nieva, director of the Indian al on the podium and stormed back-to-back championships roughly $10 million. Tread- men’s and women’s teams and a away in tears – was later banned with Marchetti anchoring the well, who turns 24 in June, has senior member of the AIBA in- for a year. defensive line. largely been a disappointment ternational federation coaches But the 37-year-old, who won “You’ll never know the since the Vikings made him commission, said he was “wor- bronze at the Asian Champion- sleepless nights I had when the 23rd pick in the 2016 NFL ried” about the looming deci- ships in Bangkok, feels the expe- Green Bay was getting ready to Draft out of Ole Miss. sion. rience changed her. play Baltimore,” the late For- He has 56 catches for 517 “I think they will fi nd a way “I have matured a lot in all rest Gregg, the Packers’ Hall yards and just one touchdown but... in boxing we tend to ex- these years. But I have sacrifi ced of Fame off ensive tackle, once in 40 games. Eighteen players aggerate our importance for the a lot to be still relevant in Indian said of Marchetti in an inter- who were also drafted in 2016 Olympic movement,” the Swed- boxing,” said Devi, who insisted view. have gained more receiving ish coach told AFP. she would try to reach the Olym- Marchetti was one of three yards than Treadwell, includ- “We think that we are so pure, pics if it is still in the contest. defensive ends named to the ing four tight ends and four one of the oldest, but for other Nieva said that if boxing keeps NFL 75th Anniversary All- running backs. people who are not into boxing, Indian boxing’s High-Performance Director Santiago Nieva speaks during a felicitation ceremony in New its place, he was confi dent that Time Team in 1994. The others Meanwhile Jamaal Charles they see it more from a commer- Delhi on Tuesday. (AFP) India – the land of the legendary were Deacon Jones and Reggie plans to sign a ceremonial cial and political standpoint. Mary Kom – has a fast-improv- White. Marchetti played for contract with the Kansas City “They don’t want controver- rations for next year’s Games programme is also being held. on the receiving end of judging ing pool of boxers with a chance the Colts from 1953-66 af- Chiefs, then formally an- sies, they don’t want scandals at to give the sport time to clean In response, the “right to pro- blunders, and highlighted the of winning a medal. ter one season with the Dal- nounce his retirement from the Olympics and boxing is giv- up its image after allegations of test” a referee’s decision is to 49kg fi nal at the Asian Champi- India fi nished the Asian las Texans in 1952; he was a the NFL. Charles spent 11 ing controversies over and over bout-fi xing tainted the 2016 Rio be re-introduced at the world onships in Bangkok when Deep- championships with two gold second-round pick of the New seasons in the NFL after the again,” said Nieva. Olympics. An inquiry into AIBA championships in September. ak Singh lost his fi nal to Nodir- medals, four silver and seven York Yanks, but that fran- Chiefs drafted him 73rd overall The IOC froze boxing’s prepa- governance and its anti-doping Nieva said India had been jon Mirzahmedov of Uzbekistan. bronze. chise moved to Dallas before out of Texas in 2008. Gulf Times Thursday, May 2, 2019 7 SPORT

GOLF SPOTLIGHT Folau row splitting Wallaby dressing Tiger’s Masters a room: reports

AFP no choice but to act after Folau Sydney escaped sanction last year after sparking outrage with another anti-gay social media post. ontroversy over rugby Further complicating the sporting ‘Moon superstar Israel Folau’s situation is anger among some homophobic comments players from Pacifi c Islander is reportedly threaten- backgrounds that the Folau case Cing to divide Wallabies players has led to their religious beliefs ahead of the World Cup, with being targeted. some unwilling to play with the Centre Samu Kerevi faced controversial fullback and oth- online criticism after posting a ers feeling their religion is under Christian message over Easter, landing’: PGA boss attack. with prop Taniela Tupou rushing Rugby Australia wants to sack to his defence. the devoutly Christian Folau “Might as well sack me and all Woods’ win has triggered a new wave of Tiger-mania ahead of the next major over a social media post that said the other Pacifi c Islands rugby “hell awaits” gay people and the players around the world be- AFP matter will be heard at a code of cause we have the same Chris- New York conduct hearing on Saturday. tian beliefs,” he said in a Face- But the Australian newspaper book post that has since been reported that if Folau wins the deleted. iger Woods’ epic victory at the case — saving his multi-year, “I will never apologise for my Masters was a sporting equiva- multi-million-dollar contract faith and what I believe in, reli- lent of the Moon landing which — a number of Wallabies could gion (has) got nothing to do with Thas triggered a ticket frenzy for “make themselves unavailable” rugby anyway.” the PGA championship, PGA of America to play with him. A split among his players is chief Seth Waugh said Tuesday. It did not say how many were the last thing Wallabies coach Woods completed a fairytale comeback considering a boycott but point- Michael Cheika wants as he at Augusta on April 14, winning the 15th ed to a string of comments criti- looks to build momentum for major of a career that had once seemed cal of Folau by senior players and this year’s Rugby World Cup in in irreversible decline after a series of management. Japan. Cheika has vowed not to lengthy injury layoff s. Just last week, Wallabies di- select Folau for the tournament Waugh said Woods’ emotional win has rector of rugby Scott Johnson because of his “disrespectful” triggered a new wave of perfectly timed backed Rugby Australia’s move comments. Tiger-mania, as the PGA Championship to axe Folau, saying “we want a Australia, fi nalists in 2015, tees off in its new May slot in the calendar game that includes everyone”. are currently ranked sixth in the in just over two weeks’ time. Rugby Australia feels it has world. While tickets for the fi nal two days of the May 16-19 championship at Bethpage Black had already sold out, Woods’ vic- tory had sent demand surging. “Tiger, you know, he has impact, sort of the moon landing,” Waugh said of Woods’ Masters win. “It’s not golf; it’s where were you when, kind of stuff . “The impact immediately afterwards was extraordinary in terms of ticket sales. We were basically sold out for the ment that happened in April (after the and fi nished 43rd, 12 strokes behind the Instead Li is teeing up in the $3mn fl ag- weekend, but the requests just poured in Masters) and then a bit of a letdown from American. ship China event before jetting back to across the board in lots of ways.” the golf calendar,” he said. “Once I was on the course I relaxed and the States on Monday to prepare for the Woods has already won a major at Woods’ Augusta victory had all but played some good golf,” said Li, who has a year’s second major, the US PGA Cham- Bethpage black, triumphing at the New guaranteed the move would pay off , best major fi nish of third at the 2017 Open pionship at Bethpage in two weeks’ time York course in 2002 when it hosted the Waugh said. Championship. where he will again lock horns with US Open. “Couldn’t be more excited. We think Woods went on to win his 15th ma- Woods. Waugh said he expected Woods’ his- we made a great decision, but we’d rather jor after an 11-year hiatus to complete a “It’s very important to me to support tory at the course would also feed into the be lucky than good...We thought it was scarcely believable resurrection after in- the Volvo China Open, that’s why I have sense of anticipation as the tournament smart; it looks brilliant, now,” he added. jury, surgery and marital strife. come back to play,” he told AFP. neared. Meanwhile, China’s number one Li Speaking on the eve of the milestone “I had scheduled America this week, “We absolutely now know that the fan Haotong said he didn’t realise how good 25th Volvo China Open in Shenzhen, Li but I just thought as a Chinese player it base will be cranked up and we hope that Tiger Woods was — until he played with said he had sensed that Woods was gun- is more important to play here,” said the it will have the same eff ect that he had his his golfi ng idol at the Masters last month. ning for a fi fth Green Jacket. highest-ranked player in the 156-man fi rst go-around on participation,” Waugh Li, the world number 39, had a front- “I thought he might have a chance of fi eld. said. “Hopefully we can ride not only the row seat as one of the greatest come- victory, but when he won I was happy The tournament, which has carried wave and excitement about watching him backs in sporting history unfolded — he for him,” the 23-year-old told reporters European Tour status since 2004, car- play, but others, you know, wanting to was grouped with Woods for the fi rst two of the 43-year-old Woods, who was Li’s ries sentimental value for Li who won it play. Hopefully that knock-on eff ect has rounds at Augusta. boyhood idol. in 2016 to lift his maiden European Tour a long-term eff ect.” is Tiger,” Li told reporters. “Only if you Li revealed that in travelling halfway title. Waugh said the PGA had opted to shift have played with him can you just realise around the world to play in his home “It means a lot to me, I was 15 the fi rst the championship from its traditional how good he is. national open this week he had given time I came to this event, and I won my slot in August in order to better pace the “When I knew I was going to play with up a place in a top-quality fi eld against fi rst European tournament here. So I All Blacks lock in Whitelock aft er season. him, I was extremely nervous,” admitted the likes of Rory McIlroy at the US PGA defi nitely want to play and win the Volvo “We always felt there was this excite- Li, who was playing his second Masters Tour’s $7.9 mn event at Quail Hollow. China Open again.” bending rules on overseas play Wellington: New Zealand “His recommitment alongside Rugby signed forward Sam a number of other key players Whitelock to a long-term deal gives us a strong foundation FOCUS yesterday, but only after the for the next four years,” Tew world champions relaxed their said. selection rules to let him re- Whitelock will skip the 2020 main an All Black while playing Super Rugby season to play Rose hopes for rebound aft er Masters fl op show a season in Japan. with Panasonic Wild Knights in The All Blacks usually refuse Japan’s Top League. to pick overseas-based players Such overseas sabbaticals have AFP fi rst two rounds, missing the cut for the but such is Whitelock’s impor- been granted before but only Washington fi rst time in 14 Masters appearances. tance to the team that the rule on the understanding that they He said a jam-packed March schedule has been tweaked for the first will not be eligible for All Black — after he opted not to play a tournament time to keep the 108-Test lock selection. orld number two Justin in February — had ultimately left him too in the fold. However, Tew said Whitelock Rose returns to action this tired to play his best at Augusta. “We have to be flexible when would still play with the team week for the fi rst time since “I kind of came out of that month not it comes to renegotiating with in 2020 “on the basis of his he shockingly missed the playing as well as I would have hoped,” our leading players and that’s long-standing and outstanding Wcut at the Masters, saying he’s “excited” Rose said. “The Florida Swing became a what we have done with Sam,” service to New Zealand rugby about the rest of the golf season. bit of a struggle and a bit of a grind.” NZR chief executive Steve Tew and the fact he has signed a “I feel like there’s a bit of a refocus He said he would change his approach said. four-year deal”. and rededication and remotivation that I for the next major of the year, starting Whitelock, 30, is seen as a Whitelock said he was looking found in the last week or two,” Rose said with next month’s PGA Championship at future captain, replacing Kieran forward to playing in Japan, Tuesday as he looked ahead to Thursday’s Bethpage Black in New York. Read, who is among an number where he will be reunited with start of the US PGA Tour’s Wells Fargo He plans to use the same approach he of senior players leaving after his former Canterbury Crusad- Championship at Quail Hollow in Char- used before his 2013 US Open victory at this year’s World Cup in Japan. ers coach Robbie Deans. lotte, North Carolina. Merion. The two-time World Cup winner “Ultimately, this decision allows “I’m excited about what I can rebuild “I went up there for a few days mid- will be tasked with maintaining me to take some time with my going forward for the rest of the season.” week, really tried to get my head around the All Blacks’ standards after family to experience a new Rose was ranked number one in the the golf course,” he said. “Then came this year’s tournament, much rugby environment in Japan, world when he arrived at Augusta Na- home for the weekend and tried to digest like Read did after the 2015 before coming back refreshed tional for the fi rst major championship of it, rest, spend some time with the fam- edition, when eight top players and ready for the remainder of the season. ily and head back up there early the next retired. 2020 and beyond,” he said. He failed to break par in either of the week.”

BOTTOMLINE Gimelstob resigns from ATP aft er assault case AFP something I love so much, but given the year-old daughter were trick-or-treat- players had mounted on Gimelstob Washington current climate I do not deserve to be in ing on Halloween. to stand down from the ATP board, this position of infl uence,” he said in a “My job was to best represent the three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Facebook post. players, the ATP and be a custodian of Wawrinka joining the chorus just a day ustin Gimelstob resigned from “While I can, have, and will continue the sport. My choices and actions last ago. his position on the ATP’s board to dispute the way that evening has Halloween night prohibit me from do- “Justin Gimelstob has been convict- of directors after the American been depicted, the material matter is ing that at this time,” Gimelstob said. ed of a violent assault. It simply can not was sentenced following assault that my judgement that evening com- “My role is designed to work on be- be possible for anyone to condone this charges,J he announced yesterday. promised the sport and the people that half of the players and the sport and type of behaviour and worse support Gimelstob, a former professional entrusted me with the authority to rep- it is clear that I have now become a it,” the Swiss former world number player, pleaded no contest to felony resent them,” he added. signifi cant burden and distraction to three said, calling the American re- battery charges and was given three Gimelstob, 42, was in court follow- both.” maining on the board a “shameful pe- years’ probation and 60 hours of com- ing an incident in October last year that “It has become clear that I need to riod in our great sport.” munity service by a Los Angeles court saw him accused of attacking former take a step back — for the good of the Andy Murray, Pat Cash and Martina on April 22. friend Randall Kaplan while the ven- players, the game and for myself.” Navratilova were among several former “I’m heartbroken to walk away from ture capitalist, his wife and their two- Pressure from players and former players calling for Gimelstob’s ouster.

Thursday, May 2, 2019 GULF TIMES SPORT

ATHLETICS Asher-Smith and Bartoletta inspire local athletes ‘This is my first time participating in the Doha Diamond League and I’m impressed with what I’ve seen so far’

he reigning Olympic long jump Championships is my top priority,” said champion, Tianna Bartoletta the 23-year-old. of the USA and Britain’s Dina She added that she counted it a rare Asher-Smith, the European privilege to be considered a role mod- T100m and 200m champion, took a el and a source of inspiration for the break from their training during an young female athletes. “I see myself as impressive photo-shoot at the iconic someone who is just doing her thing National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) on but I’m happy to be thought of as an in- Tuesday. spiration to others. It is really humbling With just one day to go until the to know that people are looking up to IAAF Doha Diamond League - the you and your actions can aff ect others fi rst stage of the 2019 IAAF Diamond in one way or the other. My hope is to League series, which will take place at continue to live up to expectations es- the state-of-the-art Khalifa Interna- pecially for the upcoming female ath- tional Stadium for the fi rst time on May letes,” added the 4x100m relay silver 3 - the stars posed for diff erent shots at medallist at the 2017 World Champion- the newly-opened 430,000 square feet ships in London. (40,000 m2) museum, which was in- For three-time Olympic gold medal- spired by the Desert Rose mineral for- list Bartoletta, coming to Doha always mation and designed by Pritzker Prize- leaves her with happy memories and winning architect Jean Nouvel. she is delighted to be back again. “The The event also provided an opportu- 2019 Diamond League for me is like nity for the stars to share their wealth a dress rehearsal for the IAAF World of experience with the upcoming local Championships in August and I’m here female athletes as they gave out advice to give my best,” said the American who on various related topics to an audience women’s long jump at the 2015 World which included javelin throwers Salha Outdoor Championships, with a per- Al Ali, Moda al-Ali and Al Dana al- sonal best distance of 7.14 meters, 10 Ali, high jumper Al Jauihra al-Ali and years after her fi rst global triumph. “I’m sprinter Kinda Moussa. presently focusing more on my sprint- “I’m obviously delighted to be here ing techniques so that I can have more and to start my season in Doha. This is good jumps and hopefully break records my fi rst time participating in the Doha ahead of the August event,” she added. Diamond League and I’m impressed Bartoletta who won the long jump with what I’ve seen so far,” said Ash- at the 2015 Doha Diamond League, ad- er-Smith, the British record holder in vised upcoming female athletes to be the 100m and 200m (10.85 and 21.89 dedicated and be totally committed to respectively), who also ended 2018 as their discipline if they want to make a world number-one in both events. success out of it. “Above all, learn to She added that the Doha weather is enjoy yourself and be yourself. Let no- a welcome change from that of London body sets limits for you because you are and hopes to get used to the climate in only limited by your thinking. Give life time for the IAAF World Champion- your best shot and try something new ships which takes place in the Qatari and break barriers.” capital later in the year. “I’m looking The long jump at the 2019 IAAF Doha forward to my fi rst major run of the year Diamond League promises to be one of on Friday with the 200m and my main the most interesting events as Barto- aim is to run as fast as possible, but the letta clashes with Columbia’s Olympic most important target for me this year triple jump champion, Caterine Ibar- is participating in the World Champi- guen and Shara Proctor of Britain, the onship. Medals and records may come 2015 world outdoor silver medallist, for USA's Olympic long jump champion Tianna Bartoletta (right) and Britain’s Dina Asher-Smith, the European 100m and 200m champion, pose after visiting the National later but participating in the World the crown tomorrow. Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) on Tuesday.

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT QREC and Katara Hospitality Farah spurns world marathon spot, sign partnership agreement track return speculation mounts AFP stead, having claimed gold in Moscow in to get back out there’,” Farah had said. London 2013, Beijing in 2015 and London in 2017. “If things are going well and I’ve got a Farah turned his back on the track in 2017 chance to win a medal, then I’d love to come to concentrate on long-distance road run- back and run for my country but my aim ritain’s Mo Farah has turned down ning, fi nishing third in London last year and now is to concentrate on the marathon,” he the chance to contest the marathon claiming the European record when winning added. at this year’s world championships his fi rst marathon in Chicago in October but Farah’s build-up to the London event was in Doha, increasing the possibil- he fi nished more than three minutes behind dominated by an extraordinary feud with Bity of a return to the track. Farah, who fi n- Kenyan winner Eliud Kipchoge on Sunday. Haile Gebrselassie, which saw the pair pub- ished fi fth in Sunday’s London Marathon, Earlier this year Farah hinted at a poten- licly swap accusations about events at the had been eligible for selection for the British tial return to the track at the world champi- retired Ethiopian athletics legend’s hotel. team, but has opted to decline his place. onships. “Having seen my fellow athletes, High temperatures for the world champi- The 36-year-old four-time Olympic who I’ve competed against in the past, and onships in Doha starting in late September champion could now target a fourth suc- watching the European indoor champion- mean the marathon will be run at night, with cessive world title over 10,000 metres in- ships on TV, I was thinking ‘Oh man, I want the race beginning at 11.59pm.

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QREC Chairman Issa bin Mohammed al-Mohannadi and Chief Executive Off icer of Katara Hospitality Olympic athletes hold training sessions Hamad Abdulla al-Mulla pose with other off icials. he Qatar Racing & extensive experience in this fi eld, Clubhouse exists at the sole race- with Aspire Academy’s student athletes Equestrian Club (QREC) and signed the recent Agree- course in the country. The Club- and one of Katara Hos- ment, which is related to the out- house will generate revenues, spire Academy hosted three re- pitality operating units fi tting and operation of the facil- mainly through the rental of the nowned Olympic athletes yester- Trecently signed an Agreement ity in order to achieve the goals, facility, membership fees, the spa day with Jereem Richards, 2017 under which Katara Hospital- which QREC looks forward to in and the other facilities.” World Championship gold med- ity will manage and operate the the coming years. On this occasion, Hamad Ab- allistA in the 400m relay, Joe Kovacs, 2016 QREC Clubhouse. The partner- Following the signing of the dulla al-Mulla, Chief Executive Olympics shot put silver medallist; and Pi- ship refl ects the two organisa- agreement, Issa bin Mohammed Offi cer of Katara Hospitality otr Lisek, 2017 World Championship pole tion’s wish to use invest this al-Mohannadi, QREC chairman, said: “We are honoured with this vaulter silver medallist. agreement for the optimum op- said: “This agreement for the partnership; The Club House at The athletes, who are in Doha to take part eration of the facility. The QREC outfi tting and operation of the the Qatar Racing and Equestrian in the 2019 IAAF Diamond League, enthusi- Clubhouse will be a signifi cant QREC Clubhouse will contribute Club will be managed through astically gave Aspire Academy student-ath- hospitality destination in Qatar to the realisation of one of our key one of Katara Hospitality’s op- letes a professional training session where in terms of the services provided objectives by providing alterna- erating units to highlight and the star athletes shared tips, personal sto- at the Clubhouse through a host tive fi nancial resources. This will enhance this facility off erings, ries and led training sessions on ground to of facilities making it the ideal partly enhance QREC’s eff orts which will be set this project as showcase professional athletic techniques destination for those wishing to to develop Qatar’s equestrian one of the major and unique des- to the future champions. Commenting on benefi t from this partnership and sport and partly lessen the bur- tinations in Qatar.” his visit to Aspire Academy for the fi rst time, enjoy a range of facilities. dens of the government towards Katara Hospitality is a global US-American shot putter, Joe Kovacs, said; The structural works are QREC, which is an ultimate goal hotel owner, developer and op- “It is so cool to see this in person as I have scheduled to be completed at for us at QREC. The agreement erator, based in Qatar. With more seen numerous athletes train here and post QREC’s premises early next further fosters QREC’s eff orts than 45 years of experience in on Instagram. I am delighted to have had the year. Then, the procedures re- to be a global equestrian leader, the industry, Katara Hospital- chance to see and use the facilities as well as lated to the start of the operation not only in terms of horseracing ity actively pursues its strategic meet the student athletes who are benefi ting The 2017 World Championship gold medallist in the 400m relay Jereem Richards (top will commence according to the and technical aspects, but also expansion plans by investing in from these amazing facilities. fourth left) poses with Aspire Academy’s student athletes yesterday. schedule to be developed by one through the optimum invest- peerless hotels in Qatar while “I don’t think there is anywhere else in the of Katara Hospitality’s operating ment and maximised off erings of growing its collection of iconic world that can boast such amazing facili- sions ahead of any championship.” “I’m also very proud to be part of the 2019 units. It is worth mentioning that this facility. The public will cer- properties in key international ties for so many diff erent sports. As for the Jereem Richards, sprinter from Trinidad IAAF Diamond League and I’m very lucky to the operation of the Clubhouse tainly have their share of these markets. Katara Hospitality’s student-athletes at the academy, they are & Tobago, said; “It is a great experience to be have the chance to compete in the stadium has been delayed over the previ- benefi ts as the Clubhouse goers portfolio has grown to include 40 benefi ting from the best of the best. I per- in Doha and I’m glad to be here once again. where the 2019 IAAF World Championships ous years due to technical rea- will have fi rst-hand experience owned and/or managed hotels sonally think that most important thing for The piece of advice that I would like to pass will be hosted later this year. It is a chance to sons. The existing QREC Board of the equestrian sport in Qatar and the company is now focused these young student-athletes to see is that on to student-athletes is to be patient, don’t familiarise myself with the stadium and feel of Directors reached agreement and role played by QREC in this on achieving its target of 60 ho- even professional have off days and we have expect immediate results and to be patient more comfortable when the worlds come with Katara Hospitality, given its area, particularly as the QREC tels in its portfolio by 2026. to endure the harsh physical training ses- and trust the process of growth. here in September.