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Friday, November 13, 2020 SPOTLIGHT Rabia I 27, 1442 AH Overwhelming GULF TIMES support for Doha’s 2030 Games bid SPORT Page 2 Doha 2030 promises gateway to sustainability and ultimate Asian Games experience The tour began at Al Bidda tower, home of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy of the 2022 FIFA World Cup

Doha 2030 Chairman HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani watches as members of the OCA Evaluation Committee interact with a young athlete at Aspire Academy yesterday. At right, they look at exhibits at the 2022 FIFA World Cup’s Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC) headquarters in Bidda Tower. See also pages 2 and 3 of Sport

By Sports Reporter Doha

he OCA Evaluation Committee visiting Qatar to assess its ca- Tpabilities to host the 2030 Asian Games in Doha were given an extensive tour of the country’s state-of-the-art fa- cilities. The delegation, which is on a three-day visit, was also given an extensive lowdown on how Doha is uniquely positioned to deliver certainty, sustainability and excellence for the whole of A martial arts demonstration at the Lusail Arena. Asia, at a time when it is needed most. fully hosted many international athletes have been placed at the Doha’s plans to deliver a or continental events. With this forefront of Doha 2030’s plans. seamless, athlete-focused event experience also comes knowl- Alongside world-class sports with sustainability at its core. edge in delivering the all-im- venues, Nada explained that The expert delegation saw portant Games-services that the Athletes’ Village would be fi rst-hand how Doha’s tried and are critical to successfully stag- located in Lusail City, Qatar’s tested sports venues and medi- ing major events. Our certainty fi rst and largest sustainable city, cal facilities, which have catered of excellence, will allow us to providing accessibility and un- for the world’s best athletes in focus our attention on mini- precedented services. the world’s biggest events, are mising our impact on the envi- “Doha 2030 is committed ready to provide the ultimate ronment and contributing to a to ensuring our venues provide Games experience in 2030. stronger future for Asia before athletes with everything they The tour began at Al Bidda and after 2030.” need so they can compete at tower, home of the Supreme The Evaluation Commit- their best and inspire the next Committee for Delivery and tee also experienced the city’s generation. We can already Legacy of the FIFA World Cup ultra-modern Metro, which is guarantee athletes and all par- Qatar 2022. The delegation was part of Doha’s sophisticated ticipants – OCA Family, offi - presented with the Committee’s transport network, promis- cials, media and spectators – an impressive sustainability strat- ing average travel times at the event experience like no other, egy and commitment to deliv- Hassan al-Thawadi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC), briefs the delegation at the SC headquarters in Games of 20 to 30 minutes. The because we have a proven track ering a carbon-neutral event, Bidda Tower. delegation was also given an in- record in successfully staging which will be leveraged by Doha sight into Doha’s wealth of his- major sports events. 2030 to contribute to one of the that feature in the Doha 2030 munity. Among the athletes was Doha 2030 CEO and QOC just off er certainty, we can say tory, culture and entertainment, “All permanent venues for the most environmentally friendly Games plan. squash player Abdulla al-Tami- Secretary-General HE Jassim with absolute confi dence that which will ensure the Games is Games are in place and we have Asian Games ever held. Presidents of the National mi, who said, “I joined Aspire bin Rashid al-Buenain outlined we will deliver the excellence a celebration of Asia’s diversity developed a Games plan that is The Evaluation Commit- Federations of gymnastics, ath- Academy as a junior in 2006, the importance of certainty and that OCA and Asia’s NOCs de- and provide the perfect setting compact, sustainable and puts tee was then taken to the Aspire letics and table tennis, and the the year Doha last hosted the sustainability in the current cli- serve, in a sustainable and re- for the whole OCA family to re- athletes at its heart. This year, Dome before moving onto the President of the Women’s Sport Asian Games. Thanks to the ex- mate: sponsible manner. lax and enjoy themselves. athletes have experienced dis- world-leading Aspetar sports Committee joined the tour, cellent coaching and state-of- “This year has been defi ned “We can say this because all Nada Mohamed Wafa, one of ruption like never before, so it medicine hospital, the FIFA meeting with promising young the-art facilities I was able to by uncertainty, which is why of our proposed permanent Qatar’s fi rst female Olympians is vital that we off er them cer- World Cup Al Bayt Stadium and athletes, in a demonstration of work my way to become one of the sports movement needs venues already exist, and the who competed at London 2012 tainty of excellence, allowing the Lusail Arena, just some of the bid’s full support from all the top ranked squash players in certainty now more than ever. majority of these world-class and Rio 2016, presented to the them to focus on achieving their the existing world class venues levels of the Qatar sports com- the world.” Doha 2030 can do more than facilities have already success- Evaluation Committee how dreams.” Gulf Times 2 Friday, November 13, 2020 DOHA 2030

SPOTLIGHT Overwhelming support for Doha’s Asian Games bid As an Olympic Council of Asia delegation tours Qatar’s sporting venues to evaluate the country’s bid for the 2030 Asian Games, Gulf Times spoke to a cross section of people to get their views. We produce the excerpts

The (2006) Asian Games had a massive impact on my career. I still remember the fi rst time I saw boxing competitions up close and personal. And that was a great inspiration to me, wanting to represent my country. I know for sure that the Asian Games 2030 will also do the same for many athletes in Qatar and the region to achieve their best for the country in the future. During the pandemic, I have engaged in various live sessions on my social media platforms and many top athletes have praised how Qatar invests in sports and has a well-rounded infrastructure, leading the region medically and performance-wise, besides having the capabilities to host big tournaments and championships. Without a doubt, Qatar has great capabilities, sports clubs and arenas are more than capable to host international multi-sport events. Aspire Zone is incredible, with its Aspire Academy, Aspetar, hotels, a mall, etc. Also, after the 2006 Asian Games, there was a legacy element that continued with many world championships across many sporting disciplines have been held in Qatar. The amateur world boxing championships, swimming world cup events are held every year, the athletics world championships were held, the Diamond League. The legacy will only be cemented further with the 2030 Asian Games.

Sheikh Fahad bin Khalid al-Thani Qatar’s fi rst professional boxer

I am very excited as Doha again is bidding to cilities of global standards, organising interna- Speaking as an athlete in a multi-sport discipline, Qatar as a country host the Asian Games in 2030. It’s a great oppor- tional and world-level tournaments over the past is fully geared up to host any major sporting event. Even as of this mo- tunity for the young generation that did not have many years, making it an international destina- ment, Qatar is more than ready to host another Asian Games. Qatar a chance to watch the 2006 Games. I hope that tion for sports lovers. I think it will be an amazing has really evolved as a world class venue, and developed local talents my sons, who are also into basketball, will get a experience for fans in 2030. as a result of hosting major sporting events. chance to represent Qatar in 2030. Yaseen Musa In 2019, Qatar hosted more than 50 world and international cham- Qatar has set an example in creating sports fa- Former Qatar basketball captain pionships across sports. Qatar has already hosted mega events, including Asian Games in 2006, athletics world championships last year, and will be hosting the As a football fan and a follower of many teams has drawn the world’s attention. FIFA World Cup 2022. These are huge milestones, and that alone is al- in many leagues, I have attended live matches for ready a statement about how the country, the government, its people teams in many countries. I have to admit that the Amjad Abougary and the infrastructure are more than ready. I am personally grateful to level of organisation, security and interaction in Internal Audit Professional have access to the amazing sports infrastructure that the country has Qatar is really one of the best and defi nitely the to off er. All those who love sports, experience it regularly – cycling best in the region. In Qatar, I have attended many I can’t wait for Doha to host the Asian Games tracks, swimming facilities, running tracks, football stadiums, train- games and was always impressed – whether it is again. I am a graduate of the fi rst batch at Aspire ing sites, and hundreds more. Qatar is more than ready even today to football, basketball or tennis. All stadiums have Academy in 2008 and I remember how excited we host a big event like the Asian Games. easy access with the Doha Metro. I even took my all were to watch some of the greatest names in Pedro Usero, wife thrice since it is organised well, you get treated sports in action in Qatar when the Asian Games Triathlete with respect and get to use dedicated entries too were held in 2006. Some of the events were held at so it is more comfortable for women. Doha Metro Aspire where I work now. It was a great experience. has made a big diff erence and the new stadiums are We were very young then. Since then Qatar has It would be great if Doha gets to host the Asian I came to Qatar to work as an masterpieces. come a long way. We are now also hosting the FIFA Games in 2030. Qatar will be building on a very accountant in mid-2006 and Mohamed Darwich, World Cup in 2022. strong legacy that started with the 2006 Asian within a few months was lucky Sales Manager If Qatar wins the 2030 bid I am sure Aspire will be Games. In a couple of Qatar will be hosting the FIFA to watch some of the action in involved again in a big way. We are all very excited World Cup and probably the Olympics in the future. the Asian Games. It was a tre- The Asian Games 2030 in Doha will allow for fans about it. The Asian Games in Qatar will be great for Qatar has all the facilities in place for a big event mendous experience. I had only to attend various diff erent competitions on a single Qatar and also for the entire Middle East. such as the Asian Games. It’s surely a worthwhile watched sports events on TV day given the shorter distances between the various Yousuf al-Sulaiti exercise. before. I was barely four years sports facilities and venues here. With other facili- Events and protocols specialist But that apart, I feel the most important thing old when New Delhi hosted the ties and attractions within the city, those attending Qatar is doing is that they taking into account eco- Asian Games in 1982. will be exposed to the country’s cultural heritage. logical and environmental concerns while charting I am a big tennis fan and I re- The State of Qatar has also developed cooling I have been in Qatar for a long time now and I am its future. They are conscious about the dangers member watching Indian star technology for stadiums that is sustainable, one of amazed at the progress the country has made in of development just for development’s sake. They Sania Mirza in action at the Kha- a kind in the region. The technology has been in use the fi eld of sports over the years. The 2006 Asian are using green technology wherever possible and lifa Tennis Complex. The kabad- at the Khalifa International Stadium while it hosted Games was an event that made the world take no- seeking innovative ecological solutions. di matches were also interesting. various sporting events, and also at Al Janoub Sta- tice of Qatar from a sporting point of view. Since Sustainability is the key word here. Qatar has also I don’t know if I’ll be still work- dium. This strengthens the country’s operational then Qatar has developed by leaps and bounds with invested heavily in education. From an early age ing in Qatar in 2030 but even if readiness to host more sporting events in the future. several international events being held in the coun- students are taught the importance of sustainable I am not I’ll try to visit for the Qatar has set an example in creating sports fa- try every year. It’s going to be exciting to see all the development. That augurs well for the future. Games. It will be another excit- cilities of international standards, hosting interna- build up towards 2030 if Doha wins the bid. ing experience. tional and world tournaments over the past many Hassan Esbaiss Kennedy Makambira Sunil K years, making it a global destination for sports that Public Relations specialist Media specialist Accountant

FOCUS A long shot? Don’t rule Nasser al-Attiyah out in 2030! By Anil John But al-Attiyah doesn’t have to look The duo claimed the Cyprus Rally ti- Doha at other sports for inspiration. After all, tle last month to cement their position the oldest medalist at the Olympics is a at the top and were declared champi- shooter! Sweden’s Oscar Swahn com- ons following Lebanon’s decision not ASSER AL-ATTIYAH reck- peted in three Olympic Games and won to hold the fi nal round. “Yeah, this has ons he would most probably six medals, three of them gold. been a very strange year because of the be donning an ambassadorial At the 1908 Olympics in London, he virus,” al-Attiyah said. “But you have role if Qatar gets to host the won two gold medals in the running to make the most of the chances that NAsian Games in 2030 for which Doha is deer event (predecessor to the running come your way and the MERC organis- competing with Riyadh. target competition) at the age of 60. ers really did a good job of managing the “I don’t know how old I will be then,” But Swahn was far from fi nished. event this year.” he chuckled when asked if he still sees At the 1920 Olympic Games in Ant- He is now gearing up for the Dakar himself as a competitor in 10 years’ werp, he won a silver medal at the Rally in Saudi Arabia in January where time. “I think I would most likely be ripe young age of 72, a record that still he hopes to win the prestigious title for an ambassador for the country during stands. Even when it comes to rallying, the fourth time. the 2030 Asian Games if Doha wins age is no barrier as several drivers have “My preparations are going on well the bid,” the bronze medallist in skeet proved over the years. The best exam- and my confi dence is high,” said al- shooting at the 2012 London Olympics ple is that of Spaniard Carlos Sainz who Attiyah. “I am maintaining my fi tness and three-time Dakar Rally champion won his third Dakar Rally title last year routine and physically and mentally I told the Gulf Times yesterday. at the age of 57 to become the event’s am well prepared for the race.” But it didn’t take more than a few oldest champion in history. Reverting to the 2030 Asian Games, seconds for the competitor in him to He beat his own record by two years, al-Attiyah said Doha is the favourite take over. “Who knows what’s in store having become the then oldest cham- to win the bid. “In 2006 when Qatar for me? As of now the thought of retire- pion by winning the world’s most gru- hosted the Asian Games I think people ment has never occurred to me,” said elling motor racing event in 2018. around the world were a bit surprised. the 49-year-old. Incidentally, al-Attiyah won the “But Qatar has grown by leaps and “I am still enjoying both shooting Middle East Rally Championship bounds since then. We are now host- and driving. I am maintaining my fi t- (MERC) for the 16th time on Wednes- ing the FIFA World Cup in 2022 and ness and if it stays that way then any- day after the fi nal round scheduled to we have also ambitions to organise the thing is possible!” be held in Lebanon this week was can- Olympics in the future. “We not only There are numerous examples of celled due to the Covid-19 crisis. have all the infrastructure in place but sportspersons excelling at competitive Al-Attiyah and his French co-driv- also a great deal of experience hosting sport even when they were well into er Mathieu Baumel had won the fi rst global events. All Qataris will be happy their 40s or even past the half-century the age of 45 in 1994 by knocking out When Moorer was just a year old, champion in 1968, winning the gold by round in Oman before the second and to have another prestigious sporting mark. American George Foreman be- compatriot Michael Moorer, who was Foreman had already made a name for defeating the Soviet Union’s Jonas Ce- third legs in Qatar and Jordan were event like the Asian Games happening came heavyweight boxing champion at just 26. himself as the Olympic heavyweight pulis in two rounds in Mexico City. scrapped due to the pandemic. in the country.” Gulf Times Friday, November 13, 2020 3 DOHA 2030

OLYMPIC COUNCIL OF ASIA’S EVALUATION COMMITTEE VISITS QATAR

The OCA Evaluation Committee visited Al Bayt FIFA World Cup Stadium, which is expected to host some football matches in 2030 if Doha wins Asian Games bid.

Doha 2030 CEO and Qatar Olympic Committee Secretary- General HE Jassim bin Rashid al-Buenain with Chair of Olympic Council of Asia’s (OCA) Evaluation Committee for the 2030 Asian Games bid Andrey Kryukov at the Al Doha 2030 Chairman and Qatar Olympic Committee President HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani with Chair of Olympic Council of Asia’s Bayt stadium. (OCA) Evaluation Committee for the 2030 Asian Games bid Andrey Kryukov and a student-athlete at the Aspire Academy yesterday. The OCA Evaluation Committee assessed Doha’s sporting infrastructure and preparedness to host 2030 Asiad.

Doha 2030 Chairman and Qatar Olympic Committee President HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani Doha 2030 CEO and Qatar Olympic Committee Secretary-General HE Jassim bin Rashid al-Buenain and other off icials with the OCA Evaluation with OCA’s Evaluation Committee at the Aspetar. Committee at the Lusail Arena.

Doha 2030 Chairman and Qatar Olympic Committee President HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani with OCA’s Evaluation Committee at the Aspire Academy.

An off icial of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy explains to OCA Evaluation Committee how the FIFA World Cup will help Doha 2030 serve as a gateway for excellence. Gulf Times 4 Friday, November 13, 2020 FOOTBALL

FRIENDLY Qatar U-16 beat Lebanon Tough test awaits Qatar against Costa Rica

Qatar under-16 team beat Lebanon 3-1 in a friendly match at the Aspire yesterday.

FOCUS Maradona leaves hospital aft er surgery

Qatar players train on the eve of their friendly match against Costa Rica in Vienna, Austria. AFP brain and skull. He had looked unwell during a brief appearance Almoez Ali, Karim Boudiaf, Olivos, Argentina By Sports Reporter prepare for the Asian qualifi ers across another strong oppo- Asian qualifi ers on December 4. on October 30 to mark his 60th in the short term, while keeping nents in Costa Rica. The cold Ismail Mohamed, Abdullah Abd birthday at the stadium of Gim- Doha al-Salam, Mahdi Ali, Ahmad Alaa their main focus on the World weather in Austria could also QATAR SQUAD rgentine football legend nasia y Esgrima, the Argentine Cup at home in 2022. pose problems for the Al Annabi, al-Din, Moayed Hassan, Humam Diego Maradona left Primera Division team he coach- atar take on Costa Rica After the Costa Rica match, as they had start time to accli- Muataz Barsham, Pedro Miguel, Ahmad, Abdullah Maarifieh, hospital on Wednesday es. He seemed to have diffi culty in a friendly match at Qatar are scheduled to play matise to the foreign conditions Tariq Salman, Abdelkarim Ahmed Fathy, Ahmed Moein, followed by a convoy walking and did not stay to watch the Profertil Arena in South Korea on November 17. after having arrived in Vienna on Hassan, Boualem Khoukhi, Abdel Aziz Hatem, Fahd Younis, ofA supporters, eight days after his team’s game. The following Hartberg, Austria, to- The Asian Cup winners had lost Monday. Hassan al-Haydos, Akram Afif, Mohamed Abu Nada and Issa undergoing surgery to remove Monday, he was taken to hospi- day.Q It will be another tough test to Ghana 1-5 in their previous Post the two friendlies, Qatar Musab Khudar, Mohamed Waad, Ahmed a blood clot on his brain. Mara- tal in La Plata, where the club is for Felix Sanchez’s men as they friendly. Today, they will come is set to face Bangladesh in the Yousif Abdulsaq, Ahmed Suhail, Coach: Felix Sanchez dona did not speak to the crowd based, suff ering from symptoms of journalists and chanting fans of anaemia and dehydration. gathered outside in masks as he Tests revealed the blood clot, SPOTLIGHT left the Olivos clinic in Buenos after which Maradona was trans- Aires by ambulance shortly after ferred to a specialist clinic in his doctor Leopoldo Luque told the capital. Maradona has been reporters he could go home. admitted to hospital three times Private security personnel in the last 20 years for serious held up dividers to screen the health issues – two of which ambulance before it left. A con- were potentially fatal – due to his voy of Maradona’s supporters drug and alcohol addictions. North Macedonia followed the ambulance after Now free of drugs, Maradona dozens had waited outside the remains dependent on alcohol. clinic for days, holding photos Last week, his doctor had said of him and chanting their en- the football icon would require couragement. One banner read prolonged treatment in a clinic “Eternally Thanks.” with diff erent specialties than Luque had earlier published the current one. Maradona’s qualify for Euro 2020 on Instagram a photo of himself daughters Dalma, Giannina and hugging the 60-year-old, who Jana have visited him daily at the wore a bandage on his head. Ma- clinic. His oldest son, Diego Jr, Pandev scored the only goal of the game in the 56th minute in Tbilisi radona is expected to continue who lives in Italy, announced last his rehabilitation in Tigre, 30 kil- Thursday on social media that he AFP ometres (19 miles) north of Bue- had tested positive for Covid-19 Tbilisi nos Aires, near his daughter Gi- and therefore would not be able annina’s home. “Diego has gone to travel to Buenos Aires. Due through perhaps the hardest to Maradona’s age and previous orth Macedonia will go to a ma- time of his life,” his lawyer Mat- health issues, he is considered jor tournament for the fi rst time ias Morla said earlier Wednesday, high risk in relation to the coro- in their history after a Goran adding it was a “miracle” that the navirus pandemic, which has hit Pandev goal gave the Balkan clot “which could have taken his Argentina hard. Nnation a 1-0 win away to Georgia in their life, was detected.” Several times in the last eight Euro 2020 qualifying play-off fi nal yes- “What is needed now is fam- months he has been in isola- terday. Pandev scored the only goal of ily togetherness and being tion and was forced to stay at the game in the 56th minute in Tbilisi, al- surrounded by health profes- home recently after a bodyguard lowing the country who sit 65th in FIFA’s sionals,” said Morla. “With the showed coronavirus symptoms, world rankings to secure their place in the doctors and his family, Diego will although he later tested nega- fi nals of the postponed European Cham- be as he should be: happy.” tive. Alongside Brazil’s Pele, who pionship, which is now set to go ahead in The World Cup-winning turned 80 last month, Maradona June and July next year. former Argentine captain un- is widely regarded as one of the They will go into Group C at the fi nals derwent surgery last Tuesday to greatest soccer players of all alongside former winners the Nether- remove a clot lodged between his time. lands, Austria and Ukraine. They are scheduled to make their debut against Austria in Bucharest on June 13 next year. North Macedonia, who played their fi rst offi cial game in 1993 follow- ing the break-up of the former Yugosla- via, had never come close to reaching a major tournament before but were given a chance after the new UEFA Nations League off ered a route to Europe’s tradi- North Macedonia’s players and staff celebrate after their 1-0 win against Georgia in the Euro 2020 qualifying play-off final. (AFP) tional minnows. One qualifying place was set aside without some key players due to injury The goal was the result of some lovely at the 24-team Euro was to be decided late to a team from the bottom League D of and positive coronavirus tests, includ- play between three Italy-based players, last night as Hungary were hosting Ice- that competition, and North Macedonia ing the playmaker Giorgi Chakvetadze of with Napoli’s Eljif Elmas and Udinese’s land, Northern Ireland taking on Slovakia topped a group with Armenia, Gibraltar Belgian side Gent. Ilija Nestorovski combining on the edge and Serbia facing Scotland in the other and Liechtenstein before beating neigh- The sides had met twice in Nations of the area to set up Pandev, and he took a play-off fi nals. The European Champi- bours Kosovo 2-1 in Skopje in the play-off League fi xtures in the past two months, touch before scoring with a dinked fi nish. onship was due to take place in June and semi-fi nals last month. with North Macedonia coming from be- A member of Jose Mourinho’s Inter Mi- July of this year before being postponed Georgia, ranked 86th, were also aim- hind to draw 1-1 each time. This time, lan side that won the Champions League because of the coronavirus pandemic. It ing to reach their fi rst major tourna- though, they shaded the victory thanks to in 2010, Pandev is now with Genoa and is is set to be played in 12 cities across the ment after winning 1-0 in their semi- Pandev, the 37-year-old Serie A veteran his country’s all-time top goal-scorer. continent, with the semi-fi nals and fi nal Argentine football legend Diego Maradona shakes hands with his fi nal against Belarus, although they were who is a legend in his home country. The remaining three qualifying berths at Wembley in London. doctor Leopoldo Luque in Olivos, Buenos Aires province. (AFP)

BOTTOMLINE Finland ruin Thuram’s France bow, Ronaldo inches towards goals record sion than some of the more established Ronaldo missed that match after SELECTED INTERNATIONAL AFP FRIENDLY RESULTS Paris international players on display, in- testing positive for coronavirus and was cluding Paul Pogba and Olivier Giroud. introduced at half-time on Wednesday, At Istanbul, Turkey: Turkey 3 (Tosun Thuram could be in contention for but had to wait until there were only 23-pen, Turuc 41, Under 58) Croatia inland spoiled Marcus World Cup holders France’s upcoming fi ve minutes remaining to boost his 3 (Budimir 32, Pasalic 53, Brekalo Thuram’s party on Wednes- Nations League matches against Euro- record bid with a close-range header. 56) day night after beating France pean champions Portugal and Sweden. Former Iran striker Ali Daei holds At Brondby, Denmark: Denmark 2 2-0 on the day the Borussia Deschamps said last week that the son the record on 109 goals. Italy extended (Wind 61, Bah 74) Sweden 0 MoenchengladbachF attacker emulated of his old France teammate had “gone their unbeaten streak to 20 games after his father Lilian Thuram by making his up a level” since joining Moencheng- a second-string line-up comfortably At Amsterdam: Netherlands 1 (Van de debut for Les Bleus. Thuram was picked ladbach from French side Guingamp in beat Estonia a 4-0. Beek 47) Spain 1 (Canales 19) by Didier Deschamps for the friendly at July 2019. Lilian Thuram is the most- Vincenzo Grifo scored a brace, while At Hervelee, Belgium: Belgium 2 the Stade de France over 22 years after capped player in the history of the Federico Bernardeschi Riccardo slotted (Batshuayi 49, 70) Switzerland 1 (Meh- his dad won the World Cup at the same French national team with 142 appear- one goal each. medi 12) ground, but despite a strong perform- ances and as well as winning the ‘98 Frank de Boer’s wait for a fi rst win ance on the left wing could not stop the World Cup also triumphed alongside as Netherlands coach goes on after At Florence, Italy: Italy 4 (Grifo 14, 75- Finns from coming out on top. Deschamps at Euro 2000. his team drew 1-1 with Spain in Am- pen, Bernardeschi 27, Orsolini 86-pen) The 23-year-old hit the bar with less Cristiano Ronaldo continued his sterdam. De Boer has now gone four Estonia 0 15 minutes gone and soon after fl ashed quest to snatch the all-time record matches without a victory since being At Leipzig, Germany: Germany 1 (Wald- a diffi cult volley over as he and Lucas for most international goals when he appointed in September to succeed Ro- schmidt 13) Czech Republic 0 Digne caused continual problems down France’s N’Golo Kante (left) vies for the ball with Finland’s Glen Kamara during the struck his 102nd Portugal goal in their nald Koeman, who left to take over at At Lisbon: Portugal 7 (Neto 8, Paulinho the left fl ank for the away side. friendly match in Saint-Denis, Paris outskirts, on Wednesday night. (AFP) in a 7-0 win over Andorra. France’s op- Barcelona. 29, 61, Sanches 56, Garcia 76-og, Ron- However, Marcus Forss stunned the ponents on Saturday in what could be A first-half goal by Benfica striker aldo 85, Felix 88) Andorra 0 hosts when he collected the ball after side’s lead with a stunning eff ort after but could not break down the well- a Nations League A, Group 3 decider Luca Waldschmidt sealed Germany a Moussa Sissoko mistake and rammed being left to stroll towards goal. organised Finns. The result will disap- strolled post their weak opponents in a 1-0 win over the Czech Repub- At Chorzow, Poland: Poland 2 (Piatek home at Steve Mandanda’s near post. Deschamps brought on Antoine point Deschamps but he will likely have Lisbon despite not starting a single lic, while two Michy Batshuayi goals 40, Moder 63) Ukraine 0 France barely had any time to react be- Griezmann, Anthony Martial and been happy with the performance of player from the team that beat Sweden helped Belgium to a 2-1 victory over At Paris: France 0 Finland 2 (Forss 28, fore Onni Valakari doubled the away N’Golo Kante just before the hour mark Thuram, who made more of an impres- 3-0 last month. Switzerland. Valakari 31) Gulf Times Friday, November 13, 2020 5 SPORT

NFL NBA Lakers to start new season without Browns hopeful for fans in stands

Reuters in late July in a “bubble” en- New York vironment near Orlando and the Lakers came away with the title in early October with irst the Los Angeles an NBA Finals victory over the running back Chubb’s Lakers were forced to Miami Heat. skip a championship The Lakers’ announcement parade, and now they seemed to suggest the team areF asking their fans to wait will wait to raise its most re- even longer for an up-close- cent championship banner and-personal gathering. until fans can attend home The defending NBA cham- games. pions announced Wednesday “We appreciate your contin- return vs Texans that they will start the 2020- ued support and look forward 21 season without fans at their to coming together, when it is home arena, Staples Center, safe to do so, to celebrate the ‘It felt good to be back out there with most everybody, just to see those guys back’ and then assess the situation raising of our banner and the as the season progresses. quest for another NBA cham- Reuters The Los Angeles Clip- pionship,” the team said. Los Angeles pers, who also play at Staples Center, have not announced DUNCAN STEPS DOWN AS an attendance plan for the SPURS ASSISTANT uarterback Baker upcoming season, but they San Antonio Spurs assistant Mayfi eld served as the are expected to take the same coach Tim Duncan will step most high-profi le ad- stance to start the schedule as down from an assistant coach’s dition to practice for their cotenant. role on Gregg Popovich’s staff , theQ Cleveland Browns this week, The Lakers said their deci- the New York Times reported but he wasn’t alone in providing sion was made with more than Wednesday. the team a boost by simply being a month remaining before the According to the report, it present. season after guidance from was always in the intention for The Browns (5-3) returned state of California leaders, as Duncan to serve only one sea- from their open week re-ener- well as local health offi cials. son as an assistant. Duncan is gised by a roster largely intact. The team’s offi cial stance is expected to return to the play- When Cleveland hosts the Hou- that games will be held with- er-development role he held ston Texans (2-6) on Sunday out fans “until further notice.” with the organisation before at FirstEnergy Stadium, it will “The health and safety of joining the bench. do so with many of its key cogs our fans, players, staff and Duncan is one of the best potentially back in the fold of- community are our main pri- players in NBA history, and fensively. ority and we will continue to played his entire 19-year ca- Not only did Mayfi eld return work with state and local of- reer with the Spurs while earn- from the reserve/Covid-19 list, fi cials to come up with a plan ing All-Star honours 15 times. but the Browns also welcomed to safely welcome fans back to He helped lead San Antonio back running back Nick Chubb Staples Center in the adher- to fi ve NBA titles (1999, 2003, (knee) and guard Wyatt Teller ence with local, state and NBA ‘05, ‘07, ‘14), earned league (calf). Coming out of the bye, the guidelines,” the team said in a MVP honours in 2002 and timing is ideal. release. 2003, was named Finals MVP “It felt good to be back out The NBA offi cially agreed three times, and landed on the there with most everybody, just this week on a Dec. 22 start to All-NBA First Team 10 times. to see those guys back,” Mayfi eld the upcoming season that will Duncan was set to join the said. include 72 games, 10 less than Basketball Hall of Fame, with “It’s been a little bit longer usual. Kevin Garnett and Kobe Bry- for Nick and Wyatt – it’s been a An NBA season typically ant, as part of the 2020 class few weeks. It’s been good to have starts in October but is being before the coronavirus pan- those guys back so we’ll see as pushed back this year because demic pushed the ceremony the week goes on. I know they’re of delays created last season as back until 2021. happy to be back as well.” a result of the Covid-19 pan- San Antonio has not made Chubb produced 335 rush- demic. an announcement about fi ll- ing yards and four touchdowns The just-concluded season ing Duncan’s absence on the prior to his departure in the sec- was paused in March, resumed coaching staff . ond quarter of Week 4 against the Dallas Cowboys. He was the bell cow of a rushing attack that ranks fi fth in the NFL with 1,200 Thunder name Daigneault head coach yards and is fourth at 5.0 yards per rushing attempt. The Oklahoma City Thunder first round of the 2020 play- Kareem Hunt (529 yards, three promoted assistant Mark off s, he departed and was touchdowns) has produced with Daigneault to head coach, later hired as head coach of Chubb sidelined, but the Browns succeeding Billy Donovan the Chicago Bulls. are far more potent with both per carry (5.1). Only fi ve teams up and make tackles. Everybody that was pass receiving. of the season. He has been used who departed in September “We are thrilled to have Mark backs available and serving as have surrendered more than the doing their job to do what we can “He’s a productive runner. primarily on special teams ever after the team’s playoff exit. assume the role of head complements to Mayfi eld. 11 rushing touchdowns the Tex- to be successful on Sunday.” He’s got great vision. He’s got since, although he did play 17 Daigneault has risen to the coach of the Oklahoma City “We’ll talk to Nick, we’ll talk ans have yielded. The Texans will likely be quick feet and he can make peo- snaps on defense in a Week 7 loss position after six years with Thunder,” Thunder executive to the trainers and we’ll talk Their season-long woes stop- without their leading rusher ple miss. So, that’s what we ex- to the Philadelphia Eagles. the club that included a head vice president and general to the doctors and see once we ping the run off ers a daunting David Johnson following his pect from him going forward.” Hours after he was selected in coaching assignment with manager Sam Presti said in a get through the week,” Browns dovetail as Chubb returns to ac- concussion in their 27-25 win Starting guard Senio Kelem- the sixth round of the 2019 NFL Oklahoma City’s develop- statement. coach Kevin Stefanski said of tion. over the Jacksonville Jaguars ete (concussion), LB Dylan Cole Draft by the Giants, Ballentine mental G-League team. “He has been a selfless and Chubb. “Obviously they have a lot of last Sunday. Duke Johnson ably (back) and DE Charles Omeni- and a friend were shot while re- The 35-year-old takes the eff ective leader within our or- “Really get to Friday and then success running the ball,” Texans filled in, and the Texans feel hu (hamstring) also sat out turning home from an off -cam- helm with less than three ganisation since his arrival in put that plan together. But defi - defensive end JJ Watt said. confident that he can manage Wednesday’s practice for Hou- pus party at Washburn Univer- weeks to go before training 2014. Mark is a values based nitely, we’ll talk to Nick and see “Those guys are very good the workload should he be re- ston. sity in Topeka, Kan. camp opens on December 1, leader, continuous learner, what he’s comfortable with.” backs. The off ensive line does quired to do so again. His friend and college room- with the 2020-21 season due and someone that will help Chubb told reporters Wednes- a good job blocking for them. “I think Sunday was a great JETS CLAIM BALLENTINE mate Dwane Simmons was killed to tip off on December 22. us continue the repositioning day he was “not sure” whether They have Baker, who obviously example of what Duke brings to FROM GIANTS in the incident. Daigneault, who was an as- of our organisation on and he’d be ready to take the fi eld can throw the ball and play- the table,” Texans interim coach The New York Jets claimed cor- Ballentine, who was shot in sistant to Donovan last year, off the court. Sunday. If he does play, he’ll action off of what they do in the Romeo Crennel said. nerback Corey Ballentine off the backside, was able to recover will be tasked with getting “The amount of head coach- look to take advantage of a Hou- running game. They’re very ef- “He went in there after David waivers from the New York Gi- and play 13 games in his rookie the Thunder back into the ing experience and diverse ston defence that ranks last in fective. That’s up to us up front, got hurt, and he took, I guess, just ants on Wednesday. season, two of them starts. In 22 post-season, something experiences through his the league in rushing defence, fi rst and foremost, as the front about every snap. I think maybe Ballentine, 24, played in nine career games, he has 42 tackles Donovan did in each of his tenure with the Blue is rare allowing 159.5 yards per game. line of defence to do our job to set he was out for two plays after that. games for the Giants this season, with two passes defensed. He five seasons. But after the for someone his age.” They rank next to last in yards the edges, build the wall in the He took every snap, and that was making two starts, with both also has 19 kickoff returns, with Thunder were ousted in the (AFP) allowed (1,276 yards) and yards middle and the backers to come blocking, that was running and coming in the fi rst two weeks a long of 52 yards.

MLB Bauer becomes Cincinnati Reds’ fi rst Cy Young winner Reuters age, analytics guy, that’s kind of what I’m Los Angeles branded as, I still respect and kind of am in Pitcher Stroman to stick with Mets love with the nostalgia of baseball. “I want to be out there as much as possi- Right-handed hurler Marcus Stroman is sticking with the ight-hander Trevor Bauer, who ble. I want to pitch every fourth day instead New York Mets, accepting the Major League Baseball led the National League with a of every fi fth. I love competing.” club’s $18.9 million qualifying off er on Wednesday. 1.73 ERA, became the fi rst Cincin- Darvish, 34, tied for the league lead in Stroman, who didn’t play in 2020 because of coronavi- nati Reds pitcher ever to win the wins, fi nishing 8-3 with a 2.01 ERA. He rus concerns, indicated he decided against exploring NLR Cy Young Award. fanned 93 and walked 14 in 76 innings. the free agent market after hearing comments from new Bauer received 27 fi rst-place votes DeGrom, 32, went 4-2 with a 2.38 ERA Mets owner Steve Cohen. and 201 points in balloting by the Base- and an NL-leading 104 strikeouts. He “After watching the presser, I’m beyond excited to play ball Writers’ Association of America an- walked 18 in 68 innings. He was attempt- for you sir,” Stroman tweeted. “I could feel the excite- nounced Wednesday. ing to become the third pitcher to win three ment and passion you’re going to bring daily. Let’s go be Chicago Cubs right-hander Yu Darvish or more Cy Young Awards in a row. Randy great! @StevenACohen2.” fi nished second with three fi rst-place Johnson won four straight for the Arizona Cohen, a billionaire fund manager who agreed in Sep- votes and 123 points. New York Mets right- Diamondbacks from 1999-2002, and Greg tember to purchase a majority stake in the Mets, held his hander Jacob deGrom, the NL Cy Young Maddux was the 1992 winner with the Chi- first press conference as owner via Zoom on Tuesday, winner in 2018 and 2019, came in third cago Cubs before winning three in a row outlining his vision for a team he said he grew up rooting with 89 points. from 1993-95 with the Atlanta Braves. for. That vision includes winning the World Series in Bauer, 29, was the fi rst Reds pitcher Bauer, a former Cleveland pitcher, and three to five years, and an apparent willingness to spend to lead the NL in ERA since Ed Heusser Indians right-hander Shane Bieber be- money to help make that happen. in 1944. He also topped the league with came the third set of former teammates to “This is a major market team and should have a budget a 0.795 walks-plus-hits-per-inning- win Cy Young Awards in the same year. The commensurate with that,” Cohen said. pitched ratio (WHIP) and led the majors others were Rick Porcello (2016 Boston Red After Stroman tweeted his intention to stay, Cohen with two shutouts. He went 5-4 in 11 starts Sox) and Max Scherzer (2016 Washington responded via Twitter. during the 60-game, pandemic-shortened Nationals), both teammates on the Detroit “Marcus, That is great news,” Cohen tweeted. “Looking regular season. Bauer struck out 100 and Tigers from 2010-14, and Greg Maddux forward to meeting you soon. I will call you over the next walked 17 while allowing 41 hits in 73 in- (1992 Chicago Cubs) and Dennis Eckersley few days to thank you.” nings. (1992 Oakland Athletics), teammates on Stroman promises to be a solid presence in the Mets “(It’s about) taking the ball on your day the Cubs in 1986. starting rotation, along with two-time Cy Young Award- and pitching and not getting taken out,” With Bauer’s honour, the only three ma- winner Jacob DeGrom. The Mets are hoping Noah Syn- Bauer said on the MLB Network broadcast jor league teams that have never had a Cy dergaard will be back from Tommy John elbow surgery in which he was revealed as the Cy Young Young Award winner are the Texas Rang- in April. (AFP) Award winner. “As much as I’m a new- ers, Colorado Rockies and Miami Marlins. Gulf Times 6 Friday, November 13, 2020 SPORT

RUGBY Willis to make England debut against Georgia Reuters in the 2019 World Cup warm-ups, are ponent, so we have a team with some London among the replacements. It is the selec- real power in midfi eld. We have a good Jones hails ‘tough’ Willis ahead of England debut tion of Willis, however, which catches mix of youth and experience across the the eye after he failed to make the squad squad and they are completely focused Eddie Jones hailed Jack Willis as “flipping tough” after handing asps fl anker Jack Wil- against Italy. In the recently-fi nished on putting in an excellent performance the Wasps flanker an England debut for their Autumn Nations Cup lis will make his England English Premiership season he made an on Saturday.” opener against Georgia at Twickenham. The 23-year-old, known debut against Georgia at extraordinary 46 turnovers – the next for his breakdown expertise and turnover skill, was part of the Twickenham tomorrow, best in the league was Blair Cowan on 19 England team Wasps side that reached the 2019/20 Premiership final, where Wwhile Worcester centre Ollie Lawrence – showing an amazing combination of 15. Elliot Daly (Saracens, 43 caps) 14. they were beaten by Exeter. He won the Rugby Players’ Associa- and Bath prop Will Stuart get their fi rst anticipation, judgement, strength and Jonathan Joseph (Bath Rugby, 51 caps) tion player’s player of the year award and the Premiership’s equiv- starts in the team’s opening game of the athleticism. 13. Ollie Lawrence (Worcester Warriors, alent trophy. Willis was due to tour South Africa with England in Autumn Nations Cup. His eff orts helped propel Wasps to 1 cap) 12. Henry Slade (Exeter Chiefs, 30 2018 but was forced to withdraw because of a knee injury and his England coach Eddie Jones named the the Premiership fi nal, where they lost to caps) 11. Jonny May (Gloucester Rugby, career was subsequently interrupted by an ankle problem. team on Thursday, which also featured Exeter, and also earned him the league’s 57 caps) 10. Owen Farrell (c) (Saracens, The openside slots into a back-row where Maro Itoje moves from Maro Itoje as blindside fl anker behind Player’s Player of the year award and 83 caps) 9. Ben Youngs (Leicester Ti- lock to blindside flanker, with Billy Vunipola at No 8. a powerful second row pairing of Joe Premiership Player of the year title. gers, 100 caps) 1. Ellis Genge (Leicester “He (Willis) has got a great attitude and we feel he deserves the Launchbury and Charlie Ewels. The debut will be particularly sweet Tigers, 19 caps) 2. Jamie George (Sara- opportunity,” England coach Jones said after naming his side yes- Elliot Daly, who missed the Six Na- for Willis, who was picked in the England cens, 50 caps) 3. Will Stuart (Bath Rugby, terday. “I think he has got a good nose for the ball, he gets himself tions win over Italy two weeks ago squad to tour South Africa in 2018 but 4 caps) 4. Charlie Ewels (Bath Rugby, into good positions, he’s got good natural strength – he’s not a through injury, returns at fullback, with then suff ered a serious knee injury that 16 caps) 5. Joe Launchbury (Wasps, 65 gym-strength person – and he’s flipping tough.” Jonathan Joseph and Jonny May taking kept him on the sidelines for months. caps) 6. Maro Itoje (Saracens, 39 caps) Ellis Genge, Jamie George and Will Stuart complete the pack, with the wing berths in the absence of the in- England have played Georgia twice be- 7. Jack Willis (Wasps, uncapped) 8. Billy prop Stuart making his first England start against a Georgia side jured Anthony Watson. fore – in the 2003 and 2011 World Cups Vunipola (Saracens, 52 caps) Replace- renowned for their scrummaging strength. Lawrence, who made his debut off the – and will expect to begin the autumn ments 16. Tom Dunn, (Bath Rugby, 1 cap) Jones, commenting on Stuart’s inclusion in the starting XV, said: bench against Italy, is at outside centre, campaign with a hefty win at Twicken- 17. Mako Vunipola (Saracens, 60 caps) “We’ve got a great tighthead in Kyle Sinckler but we need to build with Henry Slade at 12. ham, albeit without fans there to watch. 18. Kyle Sinckler (Bristol Bears, 36 caps) depth in that position and we feel he’s ready to start the game.” Ellis Genge gets a rare start at loose- “We know there are a lot of expecta- 19. Ben Earl (Bristol Bears, 4 caps) 20. Powerful Worcester centre Ollie Lawrence is set to win his second head prop while Max Malins, Bristol’s tions on us and we’ve applied ourselves Tom Curry (Sale Sharks, 24 caps) 21. Dan cap after coming off the bench in a 34-5 win over Italy in Rome uncapped fullback on loan from Sara- hard and put a lot of pressure on our- Robson (Wasps, 3 caps) 22. Max Malins last month that sealed the Six Nations trophy for England in the cens, and Harlequins centre Joe March- selves in the early part of this week,” (Bristol Bears, uncapped) 23. Joe March- delayed end to the tournament. ant, who won the last of his three caps Jones said. “Georgia will be a tough op- ant (Harlequins, 3 caps)

GOLF MOTORSPORT Enigmatic Hamilton says he is ready to Woods two behind race on next year

AFP gotiations and the mind games Istanbul around them – swerved clear of rumour and instead sent a message of hope about equal- leven days after hinting ity and diversity in his sport in early leaders at that he may retire, an the future. enigmatic Lewis Ham- Asked about the signifi cance ilton yesterday de- to him of equalling Schu- claredE he was planning to carry macher’s record of seven titles, on leading Mercedes’ assault he said it was a question he is on the Formula One record asked “all the time”. books next year. But, he added, “And, naturally, I think the almost teasingly, that “nothing numbers and the fi gures and weather-hit Masters is set in stone”. the titles and all that stuff – it Hamilton was speaking on perhaps appears to mean more the eve of opening practice for from the outside. I remember Simpson, Westwood set pace at Augusta, favourite DeChambeau makes shaky start this weekend’s Turkish Grand watching the TV and watching Prix in which he can draw level Michael get the seventh and Reuters with Michael Schumacher as a being like, ‘Wow!’ But when Augusta, United States seven-time world champion. you’re in it, it’s diff erent. While sending a clear mes- “Matching an icon like sage that he loves his job, his Michael, I’d be incredibly efending Masters sport and his team, he retained proud of that, but I think it’s champion Tiger Woods a caveat that ensures he has a more the message that it sends, was two shots be- strong position in the long- hopefully, to people. hind early fi rst-round delayed negotiations about his “Not just kids, but hopefully leadersD Webb Simpson and Lee future, if and when they hap- mostly kids – because they’re Westwood while tournament pen. the future – that you have to favourite Bryson DeChambeau “I think it’s something we’ll dream bigger than you think settled down after a shaky start do,” he told reporters at a vir- you can dream – and don’t let following an early weather delay tual news conference. “If not anyone tell you you can’t go for yesterday. after the job is done, then par- that.” A near three-hour delay due to ticularly at the end of the year, As the sport’s fi rst black race lightning and rain forced players but nothing is set in stone. winner and champion, from a off the course 25 minutes after “I think it’s just about talk- modest family background, he the fi rst groups teed off at Au- ing about it and, at the mo- has become a symbol of hope. gusta National Golf Club and ment, I don’t feel like I’m fi n- “We’re going to continue to ensured fi rst-round action will ished. I think there’s always fi ght for more championships,” spill into Friday given the de- areas to improve. he added. creased November daylight. “I love racing, I love the “We’re going to continue to Woods, whose defence of his challenge and I don’t think try and improve and continue fi fth Green Jacket was already that’s going to change any time to race and do what we do and put on hold for seven months soon.” what we love doing. because of the Covid-19 out- To many observers, or lis- “But I think what’s impor- break, began on the back nine teners, it appeared that he tant is that the journey this three hours later than scheduled wanted to make clear he will year has been combined with but seemed unbothered as he begin talks once his seventh the fi ght for equality and a birdied the 13th and 15th holes. drivers’ title is wrapped up real growing process of learn- The 15-times major champion – but, at the same time, he ing what’s happening around nearly aced the par-three 16th wished to keep alive the idea the world and being a little where he tapped in from two feet that he might leave F1. bit more aware of out sur- for another birdie before walk- “I believe I have the best roundings and starting to see ing off the green with a familiar contract that there is, in terms progress with that.” swagger in his step and reached of how it’s structured and in Turning to this weekend’s the turn at three-under-par 33. terms of time-management,” race and the title, he said he DeChambeau, who overpow- Hamilton explained. “With the was still “taking it one race at ered Winged Foot with his driver team that’s put around me, I a time”. in September’s US Open to win think it’s been great.” “You never truly know his fi rst major, stumbled at the Unconfi rmed reports have whether it’s going to happen,” par-fi ve 13th, his fourth hole of claimed that Mercedes are he said. “I’m not focused on the day, where he made double- poised to off er Hamilton a the ‘what ifs’... I’m focused on bogey, but he was at one under three-year deal worth £40 preparing myself the same as after 11 holes. The world number million ($52.5 million) a year, I’ve done before to try and de- six sent his drive at 13 into the Tiger Woods of the United States plays a shot from the bunker on the second hole during the first round of the Masters at Augusta National but the Englishman – a sea- liver the way I have been doing pine straw, hooked his second Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. (Getty Images/AFP) soned expert at both the ne- all this season.” into greenside bushes and hit a provisional shot that settled into 15th and another at the par-fi ve to fi ve under through 11 holes. who will not complete their being a Masters like no other, a tributary of Rae’s Creek. second. Simpson grabbed a share of fi rst rounds on Thursday are without paying spectators due DeChambeau located his orig- Englishman Westwood, a the lead with an eagle at the par- world number one Dustin John- to coronavirus concerns, sev- inal ball, took an unplayable lie, two-times Masters runner-up in fi ve second, where he struck his son, three-times champion Phil eral hundred members crowded chunked his fi rst chip and need- search of his fi rst major, went out approach shot from 256 yards Mickelson and Rory McIlroy, the fi rst tee as Jack Nicklaus and ed two putts to fi nish the hole in the fourth group off the first to seven feet from the cup and who needs a win this week to Gary Player hit the ceremonial but responded with consecutive tee and carded fi ve birdies over a remained at fi ve under through complete the career Grand Slam tee shots to start the tournament birdies starting at the par-fi ve bogey-free front nine on the way 13 holes. Among the notables of golf’s four majors. Despite this in near darkness.

Tokyo Olympics athletes exempted from 14-day isolation: Organisers Athletes arriving in Tokyo for next year’s “impossible”. would be made next year, depending to reduce the risk of airborne droplets Olympic Games, postponed from 2020 “Athletes, coaches and Games off icials on pandemic developments. Japan has spreading the virus, Muto added. because of the coronavirus pandemic, that are eligible for the Tokyo Games will held several recent test events, includ- The no-scream guideline has been in will be exempt from the 14-day isolation be allowed to enter the country, provided ing a four-nation gymnastics meet last place for months at Japan’s professional period Japan has imposed on anyone ar- significant measures are made before weekend that was attended by spectators soccer and baseball stadia. riving from overseas to help stop the virus they get to Japan,” Tokyo 2020 Chief Ex- from Japan. “There is a possibility that spectators spreading. ecutive Off icer Toshiro Muto told a news “By next spring, we will be coming up with may be asked to refrain from shouting or Olympic organisers said yesterday details conference. a plan for spectators, including non-Japa- talking loudly,” Muto said, although no still need to be worked out, but measures Muto was speaking after a meeting be- nese spectators,” he said. “It is impossible decision has been made yet. for athletes are likely to include coronavi- tween off icials from the Tokyo Metropoli- to set a 14-day quarantine period for for- Muto said he expected details of coro- rus testing within 72 hours before arriving tan Government, the national government eign spectators, so tests before and upon navirus counter-measures to be ironed in Japan. But they warned decisions on and Tokyo 2020 organisers on infection arrival are needed.” out during a three-day visit to Japan by spectators from overseas have yet to be prevention procedures during the Games. If fans are allowed into the venues, they International Olympic Committee head Mercedes’ British driver Lewis Hamilton during a press made, saying a 14-day quarantine was He said a decision on foreign spectators may be requested not to shout or chant Thomas Bach next week. (Reuters) conference ahead of the Formula One Turkish Grand Prix at the Intercity Istanbul Park in Tuzla, near Istanbul, yesterday. (AFP) Gulf Times Friday, November 13, 2020 7 SPORT

HORSE RACING FOCUS Amir Cup 2020 Injaaz Stud’s Lekhraib shooting begins with trap event

By Sports Reporter lands sprint feature Doha he Amir Cup 2020 Shooting & Archery Competitions com- menced with the trap Tround at the Lusail Shooting in thrilling fi nish Complex yesterday. Among the many seen fi ne- tuning their skills at the Lusail Range included Qatar’s shot- Trainer-jockey combine of Majed Seifeddine and Alberto Sanna combined well for two victories gun athletes Mohamed al- Rumaihi, Nasser al-Hamidi, By Sports Reporter Saeed Abu Sharb and Rashid Doha al-Athba. Many archers were Head referee Saoud al-Qahtani also seen practising ahead of the men’s Recurve 2x30 Quali- their skills. We all know that thrilling fi nish that saw fi cation and Recurve Elimina- this sport needs participants Injaaz Stud’s Lekhraib tion (30m) which will be take to keep developing and such land the Doha Cup at place today and tomorrow. championships provide them the post completed a The prestigious champion- with the ideal needed platform goodA day in the offi ce for father ship will see the participa- so that they can be ready for and son trainer duo – Jassim tion of top Qatar shooters and international competitions. Mohamed Ghazali and Moham- archers in the men, women As for the referees, he said. ed Jassim Ghazali – at the Qatar and youth category in the 17- “We have a distinguished refe- Racing and Equestrian Club’s Al day long event which will con- ree cadre and we have prepared Rayyan Park yesterday. clude on November 28. a refereeing team not only for The local Purebred Arabian Saoud al-Qahtani is head of the skeet, trap and double trap conditions feature on dirt saw the shotgun referees commit- competitions, but also to ref- Marco Casamento astride the tee for the championship. eree the rifl e, pistol, and ar- younger Ghazali’s ward, and Speaking about the Amir chery competitions. We hope they held off a threatening chal- Cup championship, he said, that this committee will have lenge by Alban de Mieulle’s “This prestigious tournament a role in the success of the Qa- charges Patrice Nicolet’s Barra, is an opportunity for all our tari shooting and ensure their ridden by Soufi ane Saadi, and shooters and to enhance their march in all the competitions Umm Qarn’s Sealine, helmed experience and to sharpen they are involved in.” by Ronan Thomas, by a short head. Ghazali senior saddled two straight Thoroughbred Handi- cap winners yesterday. Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club’s Abdulla Rashid al-Kubaisi (third from right) with the winners of the Doha Cup after Injaaz Stud’s Lekhraib First up was Injaaz Stud’s Sir won the 1200m race at Al Rayyan Park yesterday. PICTURES: Juhaim Commander, who went one bet- ter than his season opener to kasek and his mount Monati by land the 1700m run on dirt in a head at the post, while Qatari fi ne fashion. apprentice rider Rashid Ali al- Helmed by Casamento, the Marri rode to an easy win astride gelding managed to stay ahead of Sheikha in the Local Thorough- Thomas-ridden Zyzzyva for the bred Maiden. length of the race, and then held Another Qatari apprentice off the challenge to win by a little jockey, Meteb Ali al-Marri, more than a length. opened the day with a victory Next up, in yet another 1700m astride Injaaz Stud’s Faadi in the run, JP Guillambert had Shaheen Local Purebred Arabian Novice bin Khalid Shaheen al-Ghanim’s event, before adding another Yaarmen stay close to the leader, win to his tally with a fi ne vic- Ghazali ward Roman Legend, tory on Owaida Salem al-Hajri- helmed by Casamento. Coming trained Doha Incanto in the on to the home straight, Yaar- 1000m Thoroughbred Novice Rashid al-Athba in action during the first day the Amir Cup 2020 men accelerated and eased past Plate sprint. Shooting & Archery Championship yesterday. Roman Legend to win by fi ve lengths. In the penultimate race of the day, a Purebred Arabian Con- Marco Casamento rides ditions event, Osama Omer Lekhraib to Doha Cup victory al-Dafea’s Baker De Saularie yesterday. entered the winner’s enclosure for the fi rst time in a year as a RESULTS brilliant ride by Mickael Berto saw the six-year-old land the Race 1: LOCAL PUREBRED ARABIAN NOVICE (Class 5) (Distance: 1000m) Race 7: THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP (Class 1800m run by a little less than PLATE (Distance: 1200m) 1. Doha Incanto (Meteb Ali al-Marri), 2. Third 3) (80-100) (Distance: 1700m) two lengths. 1. Faadi (Meteb Ali al-Marri), 2. Texas (Alberto World (Marco Casamento), 3. Skip The Queue 1. Yaarmen (JP Guillambert), 2. Roman The trainer-jockey combine Sanna), 3. Bakir (Soufiane Saadi), 4. Stam Al (Saleh Salem al-Marri), 4. Monsieur Noir Legend (Marco Casamento), 3. Jabalaly of Majed Seifeddine and Alberto Naif (Adnan Hawa). Won by: 5, 6, Shd. Time: (Luca Maniezzi). Won by: 1 ¾, ¾, 1 ½. Time: (Soufiane Saadi), 4. Take A Nap (Saleh Salem Sanna combined well for two 1:19.56. Owner: Injaaz Stud. Trainer: Ali Yousef 00:59.23. Owner: Fahad Rashid al-Hajri. al-Marri). Won by: 5, 3, 1. Time: 1:47.82. Owner: victories yesterday. al-Kubaisi. Trainer: Owaida Salem al-Hajri. Shaheen bin Khalid Shaheen al-Ghanim. In the Thoroughbred Handi- Race 2: PUREBRED ARABIAN MAIDEN PLATE Race 5: THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP (Class Trainer: Jassim Mohamed Ghazali. cap event for horses rated 70 and (Fillies & Mares) (Distance: 1700m) 5) (70 & below) (Distance: 1800m) Race 8: PUREBRED ARABIAN CONDITIONS below, Sanna, riding in the col- 1. Safae (Alberto Sanna), 2. Monati (Tomas 1. Better Than Ever (Alberto Sanna), 2. Gold (Distance: 1800m) ours of Rashid bin Mubarak al- Lukasek), 3. Deemah (Soufiane Saadi), 4. Fleece (Saleh Salem al-Marri), 3. Pinatar 1. Baker De Saularie (Mickael Berto), 2. Rajeh Jafali al-Naimi, had Better Than Almesk (Eduardo Pedroza). Won by: Hd, 6, 8 (Meteb Ali al-Marri), 4. Zamandas (Francois (Saleh Salem al-Marri), 3. Bsheer (Faleh Ever stay up front in the 1800m ¾. Time: 2:02.61. Owner: Saeed bin Mubarak Herholdt). Won by: 5 ¼, ½, 3. Time: 1:55.98. Bughanaim), 4. Akmar (Killian Leonard). run and then pulled away on the al-Jafali al-Naimi. Trainer: Majed Seifeddine. Owner: Rashid bin Mubarak al-Jafali al-Naimi. Won by: 1 ¾, 1, 4 ¾. Time: 2:05.85. Owner: straight for a handsome win by a Race 3: LOCAL THOROUGHBRED MAIDEN Trainer: Majed Seifeddine. Osama Omer al-Dafea. Trainer: Osama Omer little more than fi ve lengths. PLATE (Distance: 1200m) Race 6: THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP (Class al-Dafea. Earlier in the evening, Seifed- 1. Sheikha (Rashid Ali al-Marri), 2. Qatar 4) (85 & below) (Distance: 1200m) Race 9: DOHA CUP (LOCAL P/A CONDI- dine-trained Safae and Saeed Gold (Marco Casamento), 3. Qawaafi (Jason 1. Sir Commander (Marco Casamento), 2. TIONS) (Distance: 1200m) Mohamed al-Shafi -saddled Watson), 4. Umm Thaga (Luca Maniezzi). Zyzzyva (Ronan Thomas), 3. Chattanooga 1. Lekhraib (Marco Casamento), 2. Barra (Sou- Sheikha picked up contrasting Won by: 3 ¾, 5 ½, 1 ¾. Time: 1:13.75. Owner: Boy (Ivan Rossi), 4. Shellbrook (Jason fiane Saadi), 3. Sealine (Ronan Thomas), 4. maiden wins. Al Ezz Stud. Trainer: Saeed Mohamed Shafi Watson). Won by: 1 ¼, Nk, 1. Time: 1:12.37. Hazm Al Sulaimi (Faleh Bughanaim). Won by:; In the 1700m maiden for Ara- al-Shafi. Owner: Injaaz Stud. Trainer: Jassim Mo- Shd, ½, 2 ½. Time: 1:18.66. Owner: Injaaz Stud. bians, Safae, helmed by Sanna Race 4: THOROUGHBRED NOVICE PLATE hamed Ghazali. Trainer: Mohamed Jassim Ghazali. managed to edge out Tomas Lu-

TENNIS Djoko leads cast as London bids farewell to ATP Finals Reuters Players must live in a strict and thrashing by Nadal in the and Tsitsipas and that sequence Champ Tsitsipas in Nadal’s group London ‘bubble’ and even line judges French Open fi nal he will be ea- could continue. will be missing, replaced by the ger to put the year to bed with a Austrian world number three Defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas was Hawk-eye live system used re- powerful statement. Thiem, the US Open champi- placed in the same round-robin group as Rafa t will not be the party envis- cently at the US Open. Djokovic, denied the chance to on, was runner-up in 2019 and Nadal when the draw for the ATP Finals was aged as London bids farewell In these straitened times prize defend his Wimbledon title this would love to cement his break- made in London yesterday. to the ATP Finals but despite money has also been slashed year when it was cancelled for through year by winning the The Greek will also face Austria’s US Open the strangest of circum- from last year’s total pot of $9 the fi rst time since World War most prestigious title outside of champion Dominic Thiem, who he beat in Istances the season-ender should million to $5.7 million with an II, can match the absent Roger the four Grand Slams. last year’s final, and Russian debutant Andrey provide an upbeat note on which undefeated champion to pocket Federer’s six ATP Finals titles. Medvedev, who will be joined Rublev in the London group. to fi nish a diffi cult year for tennis. $1.56 million compared to the Nadal, incredibly, still awaits this year by fellow Russian Ru- World number one Novak Djokovic, bidding for The ATP’s blue-riband event $2.6 million Tsitsipas earned his fi rst. The Spanish 20-times blev, also looks a good bet after a record-equalling sixth title at the event, is in has proved a huge success since despite losing one round-robin Grand Slam champion has a warming up in style by winning the Tokyo group with Russian Daniil Medvedev, it switched to London’s cavern- match. Not that cash will be the relatively mediocre record in the last week’s Paris Masters, al- Germany’s Alexander Zverev and Argentine ous O2 Arena in 2009, drawing motivator for world number one event, his best runs being two though on his debut last year he first-time Diego Schwartzman. sell-out crowds to watch the Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal, runner-up fi nishes in London in lost all three of his round-robin The ATP’s elite year-ender, celebrating its 50th world’s top eight singles players Dominic Thiem, Tsitsipas, Da- 2010 and 2013. His last two ap- matches. edition, is being staged at London’s O2 Arena and doubles pairs go head-to- niil Medvedev, Alexander Zverev pearances ended in round-robin “Hopefully I can get some for the final time having moved their in 2009. head. and debutants Andrey Rublev stage exits. “Of course I wanted wins. I have no other goal Next year it will move to Turin. Last year nearly 250,000 fans and Diego Schwartzman when to win the tournament, but it’s than just to get some wins,” The draw was broadcast on BBC Radio Five Live fl ocked to the Thames-side the tournament’s 50th edition always diffi cult,” Nadal, who has Medvedev, who lost to Nadal at and included American great Stan Smith who dome over the eight days of the starts on Sunday. never had the benefi t of contest- the O2 last year despite leading beat Rod Laver to win the first edition in Tokyo tournament won by Greek Ste- Serbian Djokovic, 33, is guar- ing it on his favoured clay, said. 5-1 in the deciding set, said. in 1970. fanos Tsitsipas. This time, with anteed to end the year as number After the domination of Fe- Rublev could be dangerous Usually a hugely-popular week for tennis fans, London in Covid-19 lockdown, one for a sixth time, equalling derer and Djokovic, who won 11 too, having won fi ve titles this this year’s tournament will be staged without the 20,000-seater arena will be Pete Sampras’s record. But the of the 13 editions between 2003 year, more than any other player. fans due to the surging Covid-19 pandemic eerily empty, barring the players, last of his fi ve titles at the year- and 2015, the last three years in While Schwartzman recently which has forced another lockdown in London. their coaches, tournament offi - ender came in 2015 and, after his London has seen fi rst-time win- cracked the top 10 for the fi rst (Reuters) cials and a smattering of media. recent default in the US Open ners in Grigor Dimitrov, Zverev time at the age of 28. World number one Novak Djokovic Friday, November 13, 2020 GULF TIMES CRICKET

SELECTION Australia look to future, pick Pucovski and Green ‘It is such a positive sign for Australian cricket to have so many good young players stepping into contention’

AFP Pucovski, who was in the Test set-up last Sydney summer but has struggled with mental health issues, has plundered back-to-back double centuries in his last two games as an opener ighly-rated young prospects Will for Victoria to make his call-up all-but inevi- Pucovski and Cameron Green were table. yesterday included in an expanded He recently said he was in a good head space 17-man Test squad to face India as and ready to challenge for a Test berth once HAustralia looks to the future. again, vying with incumbent Burns, who has Opener Pucovski, 22, and all-rounder had a lean spell. Green, 21, have been hammering on the door Batting all-rounder Green, described by this season, impressing in the domestic Shef- Greg Chappell as the best he has seen since field Shield with a host of former Australian Ricky Ponting, has also been firing with a greats urging their inclusion. classy 197 for Western Australia last month. The selectors — coach Justin Langer, Trevor He is considered less likely to get a start, at Hohns and George Bailey — heeded the calls, least in the opening Test, with Travis Head but not at the expense of the out-of-form Joe and Matthew Wade currently filling the mid- Burns, who retains his spot alongside regular dle order, and Marnus Labuschagne and Steve opener David Warner. Smith locked in at three and four. Rookie spinner Mitchell Swepson and The pace attack virtually picked itself, with seamer Sean Abbott, along with fast bowl- Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazle- er Michael Neser, who has long been on the wood, and James Pattinson all regulars, and fringes, also made the grade and are in line for Neser and Abbott breathing down their necks. debuts. Swepson pressed his case with three con- “It is such a positive sign for Australian secutive five-wicket hauls in the Sheffield cricket to have so many good young players Shield and was preferred to Adam Zampa as stepping into contention,” said Hohns. “Two Nathan Lyon’s understudy. of those many standout players were of course “Mitch Swepson is another who has ex- Cameron Green and Will Pucovski.” celled and is in fine form for Queensland. He “Their undeniable form demanded selec- gives the side a strong second spin option to tion and we are very pleased to have these Nathan Lyon and we feel he is ready and de- young men in the squad for what will be a tre- serving of the opportunity,” said Hohns. mendous Test series against an extremely for- “Sean Abbott has also been outstanding at midable opponent.” the start of the summer and comes in to his World number one Australia, led by Tim first Test squad as a very strong fast bowling Paine, play four Tests against Virat Kohli’s option.” second-ranked India starting with a day- night fixture in Adelaide on December 17. Australia squad: Sean Abbott, Joe Burns, Pat They then move to the traditional Boxing Cummins, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Day Test in Melbourne before heading to Syd- Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan ney and Brisbane, with Kohli set to miss the Lyon, Michael Neser, Tim Paine (capt), James final three games to return home for the birth Pattinson, Will Pucovski, Steve Smith, Mitchell of his first child. Starc, Mitchell Swepson, Matthew Wade, India will need to quarantine for 14 days on David Warner arrival in Australia due to coronavirus con- cerns, and Kohli would have to repeat the ex- Australia A squad: Sean Abbott, Ashton ercise if he wanted to come back, making it Agar, Joe Burns, Jackson Bird, Alex Carey, highly unlikely he will do so. Harry Conway, Cameron Green, Marcus Har- The two sides meet in three one-dayers and ris, Travis Head, Moises Henriques, Nic Mad- three Twenty20s from November 27 in the dinson, Mitchell Marsh, Michael Neser, Tim lead-up. Those matches will be followed by Paine, James Pattinson, Will Pucovski, Mark two Australia A fixtures against Indian sides Highly-rated...Will Pucovski Steketee, Will Sutherland, Mitchell Swepson in Sydney to prepare for the Tests.

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Indians touch down in Pakistan confi rm Younis as Sydney sans Rohit Sharma

IANS T20Is, and the fi rst of the four Tests, in Ad- Sydney elaide. He will return after the fi rst Test to be with his wife Anushka Sharma who is due for batting coach for two years delivery. Reuters can start producing cricketers who he Virat Kohli-captained Indian BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had earlier Lahore can represent Pakistan with dis- cricket contingent arrived here yes- told The Age, an Australian newspaper, that he tinction.” terday for a 69-day all-format tour was expecting players to be allowed to travel The board said the appointment Tof Australia beginning November 27. with their families. ormer captain Younis of Younis will be “until, at least” But Rohit Sharma, who was added to the Test “They have already been living in a bubble Khan will continue as the the 2022 T20 World Cup, which is squad later, has stayed back in India and will for the last 80 days,” Ganguly was quoted as men’s batting coach of Pa- scheduled to be held in Australia in join the team later. saying by The Age last month. kistan until the Twenty20 October-November. Sharma has returned to India from the Kohli is, however, not accompanied by his WorldF Cup in 2022, the country’s Younis scored 10,099 runs and United Arab Emirates for rehabilitation to his wife. cricket board (PCB) said yesterday. 34 hundreds in 118 Tests, and also hamstring injury, after captaining Mumbai In- The Indian cricket team will now undergo Younis is the only Pakistan bats- played 265 one-dayers and 25 T20 dians to their fi fth Indian Premier League (IPL) a14-day quarantine in the Sydney Olympic man in Test cricket’s 10,000-run internationals for Pakistan. crown. Park, with their practice nets also being set up club and accompanied the side on The 42-year-old said he was The Indian players have been allowed to close to it. their tour of England this summer. pleased to take up the job on a travel with their families. “The athletes will only be permitted to leave “The PCB will also be utilising long-term basis. Along with the Indian contingent, the Aus- their individual rooms for designated training Younis Khan’s expertise and skills “I am particularly happy that tralian players who were part of the IPL, in- sessions which are expected to take place at when he’s not on national duty as my scope of work has been ex- cluding Steve Smith, David Warner, Adam another bio-secure venue at Blacktown Inter- he will help local batsmen hone tended beyond the national du- Zampa, Marcus Stoinis, Josh Hazlewood, and national Sports Park,” the The Daily Telegraph. their skills,” PCB Chief Executive ties,” he added. James Pattinson, also reached the city, travel- “The NSW Blues (rugby side) are due to Wasim Khan said in a statement. “I am equally interested and ling on the same fl ight. check out of their Pullman Hotel home base at “This is part of the PCB’s strate- keen at working at the domestic Kohli’s men, in their customised PPE kits Sydney Olympic Park on Thursday morning, gy to appoint highly-qualifi ed and level by identifying potential bats- and masks, had departed from Dubai on at which time the facility will be immediately respected coaches across all major men and then helping them im- Wednesday night after the end of the IPL. locked down for the arrival of Kohli’s Team In- centres of the country so that we prove their skills.” Sharma will undergo rehabilitation at the dia,” said the paper. National Cricket Academy in Bangalore. He The BCCI had demanded Cricket Australia will miss the limited-overs series, and will join that their players be allowed to train during the Test squad later. quarantine to which the New South Wales Windies cleared to leave isolation in NZ aft er Covid-19 tests Kohli will lead India in the three ODIs, three government had agreed. Wellington: The West Indies cricket team privileges after they discovered players had have been cleared to leave their biosecure shared food and socialised together. facility in Christchurch on Friday after their “I have to apologise to the New Zealand pub- third round of novel coronavirus tests were lic and the government who have allowed us negative, New Zealand Cricket said yester- to come here,” Simmons told Newshub. “It’s day. The squad, who were banned by New embarrassing from our point of view.” Zealand’s Ministry of Health from training The Windies lost a total of four days training after they breached biosecurity rules, travel because of the breaches and Simmons said to Queenstown on Friday for two warmup they might be a little slow to get their condi- games ahead of the first Twenty20 interna- tioning and match fitness back. tional on Nov. 27. “We were just getting to the levels that we NZC added that all of the New Zealand and would normally start at, but coming from no West Indies players who arrived in Auckland cricket, we had to start slower,” he said. on Thursday following the end of the Indian The Caribbean team’s first outing on Nov. 20 Premier League in the United Arab Emirates, will be against a New Zealand ‘A’ side contain- had passed initial health screening checks. ing three local batsmen in contention for the They are to spend the next two weeks in test series starting on Dec. 3. isolation in Christchurch. The uncapped Will Young and Devon West Indies coach Phil Simmons had earlier Conway join middle-order stalwart Henry apologised for his players breaching biosecu- Nicholls, who is working his way back from rity protocols that led to their exemption to a calf injury, in the squad for the three-day conduct training sessions being withdrawn. match. South African-born Conway only The team had been allowed to train in small qualified to play for New Zealand in August, groups while undergoing the mandatory 14- while Young has battled back from shoulder West Indies coach Phil Simmons. day isolation, but the Ministry revoked those surgery. India’s Shikhar Dhawan outside the Sydney airport yesterday.