FOOTBALL | Page 3 TENNIS | Page 4 Sanchez Sharapova vows keeps to ‘rise again’ Arsenal in aft er French top-4 race Open snub

Thursday, May 18, 2017 NBA Sha’baan 22, 1438 AH Curry shines as GULF TIMES Warriors crush Spurs, lead series 2-0 SPORT Page 5 2022 FIFA WORLD CUP QATAR / KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL STADIUM Completion of our fi rst World Cup stadium an important milestone, says al-Thawadi By Sports Reporter experience to fans and players alike. tire spectator area, with an intricate visit the stadium, including the cool- Doha I’m proud we can show these off to the net of German and Italian-made steel ing technology we promised during world and welcome fans with the hos- tension cables weighing 4,000 tonnes our bid, a pitch that was developed at pitality this World Cup will be remem- holding 92 panels in place, while the our one-of-a-kind Turf Nursery, and, he fi rst proposed host venue bered for.” stadium will also be the fi rst World of course, an immense atmosphere of the 2022 FIFA World Cup The fi rst event the renovated sta- Cup venue and the fi rst stadium in the Arab fans alone are capable of produc- Qatar, Khalifa International dium will host is the 2017 Emir Cup fi - region to be lit by LED lighting, which ing. We still have seven stadiums un- Stadium, has been completed nal, Qatar’s most prestigious domestic is both more sustainable and more ver- derway, all due to be completed well in aT full fi ve years before the tournament football tournament. This builds on a satile than traditional lighting. advance of the tournament, but this is begins, the Supreme Committee for rich history of hosting important lo- Even the pitch at Khalifa Interna- a great demonstration of our progress.” Delivery & Legacy (SC), the organisa- cal, regional and international events tional Stadium has a rich story to tell: Located in the world-famous As- tion responsible for delivering the in- since the stadium was originally built designed to be perfectly suited to Qa- pire Zone, Khalifa International Sta- frastructure required to host the tour- in 1976, including the Gulf Cup on two tar’s climate, it was developed at the dium already off ers a range of nearby nament, has announced. occasions, the FIFA U-20 Youth World SC’s nearby Turf Nursery - the only leisure amenities. During the World Speaking on the launch of Qatar’s Championships in 1995, the 2006 one of its kind in Asia - and was laid in Cup, however, fans will also be able to fi rst World Cup stadium, Hassan al- Doha Asian Games, the 2011 AFC Asian a new world record time of 13 ½ hours. travel to and from the historic venue Thawadi, Secretary General of the SC, Cup fi nal and international friendlies Hilal al-Kuwari, Chairman of the via a dedicated metro station on Qa- said: “The completion of our fi rst sta- between top world teams. The stadium Technical Delivery Offi ce at the SC, tar’s national metro project, QRail. dium more than fi ve years before the will also host another Gulf Cup in De- said: “It will be a proud moment for my Once completed, Qatar’s tournament Qatar World Cup begins is an impor- cember this year and the 2019 IAAF team when the fi rst ball is kicked here infrastructure will keep journey times tant milestone that refl ects our deter- World Championships in Athletics on Friday and I know all of Qatar ap- between all World Cup stadiums and mination to deliver a tournament the before the FIFA World Cup kicks off on preciates the eff orts of those who have accommodation locations below one entire Arab world is proud to be a part 21st November 2022. helped deliver such an impressive ven- hour, enabling fans to watch more than of. As we promised in our bid, our in- Other new features include the in- ue. Fans of all ages and nationalities one live match per day for the fi rst time novative stadiums off er an unrivalled stallation of a larger roof over the en- An aerial night shot of the Khalifa International Stadium. have a lot to look forward to when they in World Cup history. Gulf Times 2 Thursday, May 18, 2017 FOOTBALL

EMIR CUP Khalifa Stadium all set for fi nal: Organising Committee By Sports Reporter are already patrolling the stadium and the sur- Doha rounding areas. Police personnel will be also be deployed inside the stadium to help the fans get to their seats. In addition to this, there will be ll measures are being taken to ensure security at all the entry gates. Buhindi requested that the 2017 Emir Cup fi nal at the the fans to co-operate with the police to facili- Khalifa International Stadium will be tate easy entry and exit from the venue. an amazing experience. The Organis- There will be fan zones around the stadium, ingA Committee of the Emir Cup informed this which will have eateries to cater to the large during a press conference held yesterday at the number of people who are expected to turn up venue where Al Sadd will take on Al Rayyan in for this historic match. what is expected to a thrilling encounter. The stadium has 64 hospitality suites for Chief operating offi cer of the Organising VIPs and a limited number of them will be open Committee Hassan al-Kuwari, marketing and for testing purposes. They will be distributed communications manager Jassim al-Jassim and between sponsors and supporters of the two representative of the Ministry of Interior, Lieu- fi nalists. The private suites are priced between tenant Fahad Buhindi were present at the press QR15,000 and QR30,000. Out of these two conference. suites will be given to people with special needs. In order to streamline the entry of specta- For the spectators, there are 10,000 tickets tors into the stadium, the gates will be opened that have been put on sale. at 3:30pm, two hours before the action begins. The Organising Committee also informed The evening’s activities will begin with an that the players and offi cials who were present opening ceremony at 6:30pm followed by the during the 1976 opening ceremony have been kick-off half an hour later. invited for the fi nal tomorrow. Apart from them, The security for the event will be top-notch high-ranking football offi cials and dignitaries assured Buhindi. He informed that police teams from across the region have also been invited. Chief operating off icer of the Organising Committee Hassan al-Kuwari (centre) speaks at a press conference. PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil

CONFEDERATIONS CUP Persepolis to play Lekhwiya Germany manager Loew in empty stadium

Kuala Lumpur: Iran’s Persep- olis will play Qatar’s Lekhwiya names seven debutants in an empty stadium owing to a repeat of fan misconduct, the Asian football’s govern- Injury and illness had already sidelined World Cup-winners Goetze, captain Neuer and Hoewedes ing body said yesterday. The Asian Football Confederation AFP (AFC) said the Champions Berlin League match will be played on May 23 at Azadi Stadium in Tehran. ermany’s head coach Joachim The AFC punished Persepo- Loew yesterday named seven lis after fans lit a flare during uncapped players for next a match against United Arab month’s Confederations Emirates’s Al Wahda on May GCup in Russia as the injury-hit world 8. “Persepolis supporters lit a champions unveiled an experimental flare in the 88th minute of the squad. Injury and illness had already match, putting safety in the sidelined World Cup-winners Mario stadium at risk,” the AFC said Goetze, captain Manuel Neuer and via a statement. Benedikt Hoewedes for the June 17-July In 2015, following three 2 competition. spectator related incidents, Midfi elder Julian Weigl, 21, of Borus- the AFC fined Persepolis and sia Dortmund, was also ruled out after ordered the club to play a fracturing his ankle last Saturday. As match in an empty stadium if expected, Loew has reacted by naming there were any new incidents an inexperienced 23-man squad — none of fan misconduct within two of whom are over 30 — which he aims years. “As the current breach to blood a year before Germany launch occurred within the probation- their defence of the World Cup. ary period, the order to play Only three of the squad — Matthias one match with a full stadium Ginter, Julian Draxler and Shkodran closure automatically comes Mustafi — won the 2014 World Cup and into eff ect,” AFC said. none of them played in the fi nal. Ajax winger Amin Younes, 23, is amongst the debutants, along with Hoff enheim’s striker Sandro Wagner and midfi elder CHAMPIONSHIP Kerem Demirbay, 23, plus Hertha Ber- lin’s deadball expert, defender Marvin Plattenhardt, 25. Kermorgant At 29, burly forward Wagner is the oldest member of the youthful squad. fi res Reading Premier League midfi elders Liverpool’s Emre Can, 23, and Manchester City’s into fi nal Leroy Sane, 21, have the chance to add to their handful of caps. First-choice London: Yann Kermorgant's players like Thomas Mueller, Mats penalty gave Reading a 1-0 win Hummels, Jerome Boateng (all Bayern over Fulham on Tuesday that Munich), plus Real Madrid’s Toni Kroos sent Jaap Stam's side into the and Arsenal’s Mesut Ozil are all left out Championship play-off fi nal. to rest. “The aim is to bring a few play- Germany’s head coach Joachim Loew (centre) unveiled an experimental squad for next month’s Confederations Cup in Russia. With the score locked at 1-1 from ers up to world-class level, so that they the fi rst leg, Kermorgant, 35, can help us in crucial games. man league relegation with Wolfsburg. Euro 2016 with a pelvis injury. (Barcelona), Kevin Trapp (Paris St-Germain/ Leverkusen), Emre Can (Liverpool/ENG), settled matters with a nerveless Then I’d be happy,” explained Loew. Loew has left injury-prone Dortmund “He was a big fi gure in 2014 and it FRA) Kerem Demirbay (Hoff enheim), Diego second-half penalty to delight “I see the strain on players like Mesut winger Marco Reus out to work on his was a set back that he wasn’t there,” Defenders: Matthias Ginter (Borussia Dort- Demme (RB Leipzig), Julian Draxler (Paris the fans at a packed Madejski Ozil, Toni Kroos and Mats Hummels, fi tness with one eye on the 2018 World added Loew. “He’s determined to be at mund), Jonas Hector (Cologne), Benjamin St-Germain/FRA), Leon Goretzka (Schalke), Stadium and secure a 2-1 ag- they play almost every three days in Cup. “I talked to him in detail, I would the 2018 World Cup and everything is Henrichs (Bayer Leverkusen), Joshua Kim- Sebastian Rudy (Hoff enheim), Leroy Sane gregate win. Reading, who last crucial weeks. That is emotionally ex- have liked to have taken him, but I had geared towards that.” mich (Bayern Munich), Shkodran Mustafi (Manchester City/ENG), Lars Stindl (Borus- played in the Premier League in tremely exhausting, not just physically.” to weigh up the risk,” explained Loew. (Arsenal/ENG), Marvin Plattenhardt (Her- sia Moenchengladbach), Amin Younes 2012-13, will play either Shef- There is no place for veteran striker Reus missed the 2014 World Cup tri- GERMANY SQUAD: tha Berlin), Antonio Ruediger (AS Roma/ (Ajax/NED) fi eld Wednesday or Hudders- Mario Gomez, who has scored 30 goals umph in Brazil after tearing ankle liga- Goalkeepers: Bern Leno (Bayer ITA) Niklas Suele (Hoff enheim) Strikers: Sandro Wagner (Hoff enheim), fi eld Town in the play-off fi nal at in 70 internationals, as he battles Ger- ments in a warm-up game and sat out Leverkusen), Marc-Andre Ter Stegen Midfielders: Julian Brandt (Bayer Timo Werner (RB Leipzig) Wembley on May 29.

ROUND-UP Former Dutch forward Kuyt retires aft er Feyenoord title win Dirk Kuyt (left) announced his retire- huge deal with his attitude, professional- L’Equipe’s online edition the day before. came from him this sex-tape business. All ment from football yesterday, bowing out ism and passion. In the dressing room, on Both men missed Euro 2016 on home soil he had to say was the truth about what in the best way possible after his hat trick the pitch and beyond. So we are delighted after an investigation was launched into really happened.” on Sunday won a fi rst Dutch champion- to be able to retain someone with his alleged blackmail in a sex-tape scandal ship in 18 years for Feyenoord. The much experience and attitude at the club.” featuring Valbuena which is likely to go to MALAYSIANS REMAIN KEEN anticipated announcement came after Kuyt won 104 caps for the Netherlands court in France later this year. ON NEUTRAL VENUE MEETING Kuyt captained his club to an emotional and played in the 2010 World Cup fi nal. Investigators suspect Benzema of act- WITH NORTH KOREA title victory with a 3-1 win over Heracles He began his career with Utrecht in 1998 ing as an intermediary between the pre- Malaysia still hopes its postponed Asian Almelo, and he led fevered celebrations in before twice playing for Feyenoord, for sumed blackmailers, including childhood Cup qualifi er against North Korea will front of some 150,000 people in Rotter- Liverpool, with whom he scored in the friend Valbuena. be played in a neutral venue despite an dam on Monday. Champions league fi nal against AC Milan On Tuesday, Benzema laid the blame Asian Football Confederation (AFC) deci- “All my dreams have come true. I made in 2007, and Turkish side Fenerbahce. He for the fallout of the sex tape scandal sion yesterday to delay the match until decisions throughout my whole career returned to Feyenoord in 2015. squarely on the shoulders of Valbuena, the October. based on gut feeling, and for me this is alleged victim. He went as far as accusing The match, originally scheduled to be the right time to stop,” the striker told VALBUENA ACCUSES ‘IMPOTENT’ Valbuena of lying just two days ahead of held in Pyongyang on March 28 before be- the club website. “Since returning to BENZEMA OVER SEX-TAPE ‘SLANDER’ France naming their squad for upcoming ing put off to June 8, has now been pushed Feyenoord I’ve had two fantastic seasons, Lyon midfi elder Mathieu Valbuena 2018 World Cup qualifi ers. back to Oct. 5 due to what the AFC called with the title this season an absolute yesterday launched an emotional attack “He called me scum, said I’d threatened the “the geo-political tension on the highlight. I dreamt of becoming champion on Karim Benzema over the sex-tape him, made up all kinds of stuff ,” said Ben- Korean Peninsula”. with Feyenoord.” saga, accusing the Real Madrid star of zema, who remains in international exile The game was originally postponed Kuyt will stay with the club as part of “slander”. “Slander is the weapon of the with his last France appearance in October due to tensions between the two nations the technical management team under impotent, it is distressing !!! Justice will 2015. “He’s dragged me through the dirt in the aftermath of the killing of Kim technical director Martin van Geel. “We restore the truth,” Valbuena posted on his and sullied my family name,” he said. Jong-nam, estranged elder half-brother are incredibly grateful to Dirk for what Twitter account. “He’s got to stop this nonsense. He’s of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, at he has done for Feyenoord these past two Valbuena was responding to comments really got to stop making things up. His Kuala Lumpur’s international airport in years,” said Van Geel. “He has added a made by Benzema in French sports daily continued lying is driving me mad. It all late February. Gulf Times Thursday, May 18, 2017 3 FOOTBALL

PREMIER LEAGUE FOCUS Mazzarri to step Sanchez keeps down as Watford manager

AFP Watford

Arsenal in race, alter Mazzarri’s (right) tenure as Watford manager has ended after just Wone season as the club said yes- terday he would be leaving after Sunday’s fi nal Premier League match against Manchester City. City all but there The 55-year-old Italian — who replaced Quique Sanchez-Flores after he was fi red at the end of City climb to third spot, two points above Liverpool and three clear of Arsenal last term — has endured a poor end of season although they put AFP up a spirited performance in the London Sunderland’s Billy Jones (left) vies 4-3 defeat by champions Chelsea for the ball with Arsenal’s Alexis on Monday. Sanchez during the Premier League Mazzarri becomes the third lexis Sanchez sank Sunderland match at the Emirates Stadium in Watford manager in three years to keep Arsenal in the hunt for London on Tuesday night. (AFP) to leave the role despite preserv- Champions League qualifi ca- ing their Premier League status. tion on Tuesday night, while Slavisa Jovanovic left in 2015 ManchesterA City all but secured a top- after gaining them promotion to four place by beating West Bromwich the elite league whilst Flores de- Albion. Sanchez scored two late close- parted despite guiding them to range goals to earn Arsenal a 2-0 home the FA Cup semi-fi nals and 13th victory over relegated Sunderland, while place in the table. Kevin De Bruyne starred as City comfort- “After the Board discussed ably defeated West Brom 3-1 at the Etihad with Walter Mazzarri the club’s and then at Premier League side Stadium. future goals and aspirations, Southampton — told a press con- City climb to third in the Premier it was decided he will be step- ference he could not leave even if League, two points above Liverpool and ping down from his position as he wanted to as there is no buy three points clear of Arsenal, with only the club’s Head Coach after the out clause in his contract. the teams fi nishing third and fourth as- fi nal game of the 2016/17 sea- Pochettino, a former cen- sured to join Chelsea and Tottenham son,” read a statement from club tral defender who was capped Hotspur in the Champions League. chairman Scott Duxbury. “We 20 times including at the 2002 “We’ve got in on the fi nal day many thank Walter and his staff for the World Cup, guided Tottenham times,” Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger contribution they have made to to a second successive title chal- said at the Emirates Stadium. “We made Watford Football Club over the lenge — only to lose out to Chel- 71 points and were second. We now have past year.” sea — which has led to reports 72 and want to go to 75. After that you deal Mazzarri, who guided Napoli linking him with the full-time with what happens.” to the 2012 Copa Italia and also to vacancy at struggling Serie A gi- Arsenal must win their fi nal game at the runners-up spot in the 2013 ants Inter Milan. home to Everton on Sunday and hope title race, guided ‘The Hornets’ “There is no buy-out clause Liverpool slip up at home to relegated to just 11 wins in 37 league games. in my contract, I will stay here Middlesbrough if they are to guarantee He was hampered by a sequence next season,” said Pochettino. a 20th successive season of Champions of injuries to key players but cer- “There are many rumours, but I League football. As well as their points tain sections of the supporters am committed with the club, no advantage over Arsenal, Jurgen Klopp’s never warmed to him — his lack reason to leave the club. I will be Liverpool also have a superior goal diff er- of English was cited as a problem here for pre-season.” ence (+33 to +31). with the players — and he also Pochettino, who also guided A point at Watford on Sunday will clashed with Watford talisman Spurs to the FA Cup semi-fi nals guarantee a top-four place for Pep Guar- Troy Deeney. where they lost to Chelsea as diola’s City, but they can secure third Both Mazzarri’s compatri- well, said lessons had still to be place — and, crucially, avoid the Champi- ot and 2016 title winner with learnt in order for the team to ons League play-off round — if they win. Leicester Claudio Ranieri and convert a near miss into the title “Now we are in third and it’s in our hands up and coming Portuguese man- next season. Spurs were Chel- to fi nish third,” said City manager Guar- ager Marco Silva — whose spell sea’s only serious rivals for the diola. “We’re going to travel to Watford to at Hull impressed many despite past several weeks just as they win and to fi nish third.” their being relegated — have were Leicester’s last season be- A conspicuous number of empty seats and substitute Danny Welbeck, but in After Aleksandar Kolarov’s free-kick fer Pablo Zabaleta a farewell appearance been names bandied around in fore a drastic loss of form in their at the Emirates Stadium articulated the the 72nd minute the hosts’ pressure told. was pushed behind by visiting goalkeeper in City’s colours. The popular Argentine recent weeks as the Italian’s po- fi nal few games allowed Arsenal apathy that has taken hold among Arse- Granit Xhaka’s lofted pass was squared by Ben Foster and Leroy Sane had dragged right-back, who has been at the Etihad sition came under scrutiny. to push them into third on the fi - nal fans this season and Wenger’s team Mesut Ozil and Sanchez volleyed in his wide, City went ahead in the 27th minute for nine years, is due to leave the club at nal day of the campaign. made heavy work of beating Sunderland. 22nd goal of the league campaign from with a fi ne team goal. Sergio Aguero’s art- the end of the season. POCHETTINO PLEDGES They are assured of fi nishing They had the best of the fi rst half, with beneath the crossbar. ful back-heel released De Bruyne, whose “My favourite moments were when we IMMEDIATE FUTURE TO runners-up this term and hav- Hector Bellerin striking the outside of the After Pickford had thwarted Sanchez, defl ected cross from the left was tapped beat Manchester United in the (FA Cup) TOTTENHAM ing north London rivals Arsenal post from one of a succession of home at- Xhaka and Alex Iwobi, Sanchez made sure in by Gabriel Jesus. De Bruyne doubled semi-fi nal at Wembley (in 2011) and the Tottenham fans can look forward below them for the fi rst time in tacks. But rock-bottom Sunderland twice of the points in the 81st minute, heading City’s lead within two minutes when he fi rst Premier League we won with Ser- to at least another season under 22 years. “We were so close again threatened on the counter-attack, with in after Pickford had blocked Olivier Gi- shaped a half-volley inside the right- gio Aguero’s goal (in 2012),” Zabaleta charismatic Argentinian man- this season, but like last season Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech obliged roud’s volley. Guardiola is now within hand post from the edge of the box. Yaya told fans in an on-pitch address. “The ager Mauricio Pochettino after it was not enough,” said Pochet- to save from Didier Ndong and Jermain touching distance of securing his mini- Toure added a third shortly before the fans had waited so long and we did it in a he committed himself to staying tino. “I am sure next season we Defoe. Sunderland goalkeeper Jordan mum objective of Champions League hour, exchanging passes with Aguero, City way.” Substitute Hal-Robson Kanu on yesterday. The 45-year-old will try again to fi ght. We need to Pickford looked set to foil Arsenal in the qualifi cation following a straightforward driving into the box and slotting home. claimed a consolation goal for West Brom — who cut his coaching teeth do better, be stronger, improve in second half, saving from Aaron Ramsey home win over West Brom. Guardiola used the fi nal half hour to of- with three minutes remaining. fi rst in La Liga with Espanyol every area to try to win.”

Kane has great SPOTLIGHT expectations for Spurs How Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal Leicester: Harry Kane has backed new arena. Tottenham Hotspur to shake off Tottenham’s runners-up berth their reputation as title chok- is their best league finish since ers and finally win the Premier 1963, but the progress of Pochetti- could face a Champions League play-off League next season. Mauricio no’s side has inevitably prompted Pochettino’s side came up short reports that several key players HOW THE TOP SIX CLUBS end up playing off against Arsenal for in the title race for the second could be lured away by bigger STAND AT THE MINUTE fourth, but if they win they could also successive year after Chelsea re- clubs in the close-season. Kane is Victories for Manchester City and Ar- face a play-off against Manchester City pelled their determined challenge unmoved by such talk and says senal on Tuesday night confi rmed that for third. in the same way Leicester City Spurs’ trajectory makes them as Manchester United will fi nish sixth this Guardiola’s City are currently two frustrated them 12 months ago. attractive as virtually any club in season – but the three places above them points above Liverpool with a superior Deposed champions Leicester the world. are still up for grabs. goal diff erence, so if they can only draw are Tottenham’s next opponents “We’re a family on and off the With Chelsea confi rmed as champi- at Watford and Liverpool win at home at the King Power Stadium today, pitch. We work so hard as a group. ons and Tottenham well clear in second to Middlesbrough, there is a chance the but Kane’s thoughts are already Look, there’s not many better place, the fi nal day of the season will clubs could tie for third and face a play- turning to next term. Watch- teams to be at around the world determine how Manchester City, Liv- off for the spot in the Champions League ing Chelsea’s jubilant players at the moment,” he said. “We’ve erpool and Arsenal will divvy up third group stage. celebrate their title triumph was a got a very bright future, a great place (which brings with it a place in the For instance, a 3-3 draw at Vicarage painful experience for Tottenham squad, a team that’s hungry to Champions League group stage), fourth Road and a 3-0 win for Liverpool at An- striker Kane, who once again has win and to learn and to get better. (which earns a spot in the qualifying fi eld would leave both clubs on 76 points more than 20 goals to his credit Of course there’s going to be stages of the Champions League) and with 78 goals scored and 42 conceded. without winning a major trophy. rumours over the summer, but I fi fth (which leads to the dreaded Again, it’s unlikely. Watford have lost Even so, Kane is convinced it think I’d be very surprised if most Thursday-Sunday routine of Europa their last fi ve matches against Man- will be Tottenham’s turn to hoist of us ain’t still here next season.” League football). With one fi xture re- chester City and haven’t taken a point the silverware sooner rather than Despite all their promise, Tot- maining for all three clubs, Manchester off them since 2007, when Stuart Pearce later because Pochettino has tenham are yet to win a trophy City are best placed to fi nish third – they was in the City dugout and Darius Vas- built a gifted group that revels under Pochettino and their last have more points and a better goal sell was on the scoresheet. in the team-first ethos preached major prize was the League Cup diff erence than both Liverpool and by their manager. “Everyone just in 2008. They face the added Arsenal – but three diff erent sets of re- A PLAY-OFF FOR THIRD OR has a special connection here. It’s problem of playing their home sults could lead to play-off s. FOURTH: CITY V ARSENAL a special bond and I don’t think games at Wembley next season If Watford rip up the history books and you always get that at clubs,” while the new stadium is built. A PLAY-OFF FOR FOURTH: thrash Manchester City at Vicarage Kane said. “That has to motivate Yet, ignoring his team’s poor ARSENAL V LIVERPOOL Road, Arsenal could secure a play-off us to hopefully be out there next results at the national stadium Arsenal draw 1-1 with Everton and Liv- with a narrow win over Everton at the year lifting a Premier League in recent years, Kane is adamant erpool lose 2-0 to Middlesbrough, the Emirates Stadium. together. That’s got to be the next they should be aiming high next two clubs will fi nish with 73 points and a Manchester City’s Pablo Zabaleta (left) gets final instructions from manager Pep If City lose 4-0 and Arsenal win 1-0, step. That’s got to be our aim and term. “Imagine what it would be goal diff erence of +31 (with 75 scored and Guardiola as he comes on as a substitute for his final home appearance for the club both teams would be tied on 75 points, we’ve got to use this as motiva- like winning a Premier League, or 44 conceded). during the Premier League match against West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday. (AFP) with 75 goals scored and 43 conceded. tion to get there.” Tottenham winning an FA Cup or a Cham- Similarly, a 2-2 draw at the Emirates Whether they would be playing off for said an emotional farewell to pions League or something?” and a 3-1 win for Middlesbrough (or a dlesbrough have only won one match in best performance for the fi nal day of the third or fourth place would depend on White Hart Lane on Sunday, with he said. “That’s got to be our 3-3 draw and 4-2 win at Anfi eld) would the Premier League in 2017 (also against season, Arsenal fans will be hoping the Liverpool’s result against Middles- a 2-1 win against Manchester next step. We’re young but we’re also lead to a play-off . Sunderland), so they will have to experi- play-off is scheduled for Friday 26 May brough (again, it’s extremely improb- United the perfect send-off for getting more experience year in, But it’s worth remembering that Mid- ence an almighty resurrection between able, so don’t worry too much about it). the 118-year stadium before it is year out. We’ve just got to go and dlesbrough haven’t won an away match now and Sunday if they are to beat Liv- A PLAY-OFF FOR THIRD: Enjoy the fi nal day of the season. We did demolished it make room for a make it happen.” in the league since August – and that erpool by a couple of goals at Anfi eld. MANCHESTER CITY V LIVERPOOL our best to make it feel exciting. was against Sunderland. In fact, Mid- That being said, if they have saved their If Liverpool lose on Sunday they could The Guardian Gulf Times 4 Thursday, May 18, 2017 TENNIS

SPOTLIGHT OPINION Defending champ Garcia tries to build Sharapova vows on Masters win

AFP Washington

efending champion to ‘rise again’ aft er Sergio Garcia ap- proaches this week’s Byron Nelson Cham- pionshipD trying to restore some focus on his game after the thrill of winning his fi rst major title at last month’s Masters. Garcia, who made his break- French Open snub through at Augusta National after 73 major failures, returned from a month off at last week’s File picture of Sergio Garcia. ‘If this is what it takes to rise up again, then I am in it all the way, everyday. No words, Players Championship and shared 30th, falling out of con- confi dence,” Garcia said. “Ob- games, or actions will ever stop me from reaching my own dreams’ tention with a fi nal-round 78. viously winning Augusta was Garcia said his struggles were, amazing. It’s the highlight of my in part, from his reaction to win- career. But I don’t want it to be ning the Masters and the time over. I still feel like I can achieve has come to move beyond that a lot of things and I want to keep triumph, as important to him as moving forward. it was, and get back to normal. “I need to stop thinking what “I need to get going on that,” has happened and I need to keep Garcia said. “Last week obviously moving forward. If I manage to do at The Players I had a couple nice that then we should have an amaz- rounds and a couple not so nice ing year. We’re excited about that.” rounds. But it has been very over- Garcia also won at Dubai this whelming. I’m not going to lie. It’s year, taking a three-stroke vic- been amazing to see the reaction tory over reigning British Open from the people and the players champion Henrik Stenson. and everyone. It has been some- His next chance at a major thing amazing to go through. crown comes next month at Erin “But, at the same time, I have Hills, where world number one to kind of move on. As nice as it Dustin Johnson will try to defend is to be the Masters champion, the US Open title he won last I need to keep doing things, I year at Oakmont. need to keep improving on every But Garcia won’t be worry- aspect of my game because it’s ing about that until he’s there easy to start thinking about what to work. “For me the most im- happened a month ago.” portant thing is confi dence and Rather than stay lost in past playing well. It’s what gives you glory, Garcia wants to duplicate confi dence. If you’re trying to do the form that saw him end a four- things that you don’t feel com- year US win drought last year at fortable with or you’re trying to the TPC Four Seasons in Irving, do things out of the ordinary, and Texas, by defeating American you lose confi dence, then you get Brooks Koepka in a playoff . to the US Open and your confi - “We have to get going, get back dence is low and then you can’t into where we were there and even do what you’re supposed to make sure that we get some good do there.”

Bouchard’s lawyers accuse USTA of destroying footage of fall Attorneys for Eugenie Bou- federal court judge in Brooklyn File picture of Maria Sharapova of Russia celebrating after winning the match against Christina McHale of US during the Rome Masters. chard accused the United to instruct the jury that the tape States Tennis Association of would have reflected badly on AFP intentional doper. a uniform eff ort supported by the Grand “Nobody can deprive her of her two ti- erasing camera footage of her the USTA. “The USTA intention- Paris After the ban expired on April 26 she Slams, WTA, ITF and ATP. tles at Roland Garros, but today I can’t fall in the trainer’s room at the ally destroyed security camera returned to competition at the Stuttgart “There are no grounds for any member grant her the wildcard requested,” he said, 2015 US Open, which resulted footage in an eff ort to deprive Open, reaching the semi-fi nals, and pro- of the TADP to penalise any player be- ahead of the May 28-June 11 tournament in a concussion and a lawsuit plaintiff of evidence relevant aria Sharapova vowed to “rise gressed to the last 32 of the Madrid Open, yond the sanctions set forth in the fi nal that will also be missing its other major against the USTA. Her lawyers to her claims in this case,” Bou- up again” yesterday after failing to earn a qualifying spot for Roland decisions resolving these matters.” name — the pregnant Serena Williams. said her fall had been caused chard’s attorneys said. she was refused a wildcard Garros, the second Grand Slam of the sea- Sharapova is guaranteed a qualifying “The titles won here, she won within the by a cleaning substance, with “This egregious infraction is for the French Open follow- son and which starts later this month. spot at Wimbledon in July after winning rules without owing anything to anyone. the resulting injury forcing her the culmination of a pattern Ming her 15-month ban for doping. The Many of Sharapova’s rivals have hit out her opening match at the ongoing Rome “While wildcards exist for players re- out of the 2015 US Open and and practice by defendants Russian former world number one also at other tournaments giving her prefer- Masters, although she missed a chance at turning from injury, there is nothing for a subsequent tournaments. throughout the discovery earned the backing of the head of wom- ential treatment, but WTA chief execu- direct entrance into the main draw after a return from a doping ban,” he added. Her attorney Benedict Morelli process during which they have en’s tennis, a day after the French tennis tive Steve Simon called the actions of the second-round exit on Tuesday. “I know the media dimension of Maria said the USTA erased the foot- consistently played fast and federation’s announcement that it would French federation (FFT) “groundless”, in Sharapova, whose ranking has plum- and I’m measuring the expectations of age even after being told loose with retaining and divulg- not grant her a wildcard for the event she a strongly worded statement backing her. meted to 211 leaving her reliant on wild- the public and sponsors, but in all con- to preserve it and asked a ing critical information,” he said. won in 2012 and 2014. Whilst acknowledging that wildcards cards, could have earned her spot at science it didn’t appear possible to me “If this is what it takes to rise up again, were granted at a tournament’s discretion, Wimbledon by reaching the semi-fi nals to go beyond the strict application of the then I am in it all the way, everyday,” Simon said: “What I do not agree with is in Italy but retired against Mirjana Lucic- world anti-doping code.” Sharapova wrote on Twitter, in her fi rst the basis put forward by the FFT for their Baroni in the fi nal set with a thigh injury. Some of Sharapova’s rivals have openly ACTION remarks on her snub. decision with respect to Maria Sharapova.” The Russian issued a statement after- criticised her return. “No words, games, or actions will ever Announcing the FFT’s decision on wards that failed to address the French Last month former Wimbledon fi nalist stop me from reaching my own dreams. Tuesday, president Bernard Giudicelli Open and said merely that she hoped her Eugenie Bouchard blasted Sharapova as And I have many.” said giving Sharapova a wildcard would injury “is not serious”. a “cheater” and suggested she should be Japan to ‘get tougher’ The fi ve-time Grand Slam champion, make a nonsense of tennis authorities’ kicked out of tennis for life. 30, was banned for two years for us- ramped-up eff orts against doping. NO SERENA, NO SHARAPOVA The absence of Sharapova and Wil- ing meldonium, with the penalty later But Simon said: “She has complied The FFT’s announcement was eagerly an- liams, a three-time champion in Paris, on players aft er reduced by the Court of Arbitration for with the sanction imposed by CAS. The ticipated and Giudicelli spoke on Facebook leaves the women’s French Open fi eld Sport (CAS), which ruled she was not an tennis anti-doping programme (TADP) is Live, adding an extra sense of drama. wide open. Mitsuhashi life ban ROME MASTERS AFP ITF Futures tournament in South Tokyo Africa in November 2015, ac- cording to the TIU. The sport’s anti-corruption apan’s Junn Mitsuhashi body said Mitsuhashi had off ered has cast a shadow over Chetty — himself banned for life Japanese tennis after get- last September following a sepa- Nadal advances, Kerber ousted ting banned for life for rate probe — $2,000 for a singles match-fiJ xing off ences, a senior match and $600 for a doubles AFP Selected ATP and WTA results (x denotes seeding) Rome offi cial said yesterday. match. MEN 2nd rd) WOMEN The 27-year-old was boot- Mitsuhashi was also found Alexander Zverev (GER x16) bt 2nd rd ed out of the sport and fi ned guilty of making similar advanc- afael Nadal advanced to Viktor Troicki (SRB) 6-3, 6-4 Anett Kontaveit (EST) bt Angel- $50,000 after being found guilty es in Lagos the following month. the third round yester- Milos Raonic (CAN x5) bt ique Kerber (GER x1) 6-4, 6-0 of off ering money for players Japan tennis offi cials added day as fellow Spaniard Tommy Haas (GER) 6-4, 6-3 Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova to underperform and breaking that they would look to quiz Nicolas Almagro was Rafael Nadal (ESP x4) bt Nicolas (RUS x12) bt Anastasija Sevas- gambling rules by placing 76 bets players about any potential in- forcedR to quit with a left knee on matches in 2015. cidents they had encountered at Almagro (ESP) 3-0 - retired tova (LAT) 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 injury during their match at the Kei Nishikori (JPN x7) bt David Simona Halep (ROM x6) bt Laura Mitsuhashi, a former junior the earliest convenience. Rome Masters. Ferrer (ESP) 7-5, 6-2 Siegemund (GER) 6-4, 6-4 doubles partner of Japanese star Although relatively uncom- Three-time French Open Juan Martín Del Potro (ARG) bt Venus Williams (USA x9) bt Kei Nishikori who peaked at 295 mon, Japan has not been immune quarter-fi nalist Almagro — he Kyle Edmund (GBR) 7-5, 6-4 Lesya Tsurenko (UKR) 6-4, 6-3 in the world singles rankings to cases of corruption or doping lost all three to Nadal — was un- Milos Raonic (CAN x5) bt Julia Goerges (GER) bt Jelena in 2009, also failed to cooper- which have resulted in lengthy able to continue after 24 minutes Tommy Haas (GER) 6-4, 6-3 Jankovic (SRB) 2-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-1 ate with a Tennis Integrity Unit bans. while trailing his compatriot 3-0 Jack Sock (USA x13) bt Jiri Ves- Elina Svitolina (UKR x8) bt Alize (TIU) investigation into the al- Its professional baseball in the fi rst set. ely (CZE) 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (7/1) Cornet (FRA) 6-4, 7-6 (13/11) legations, also a serious breach league has been rocked by arrests It was a 50th win for Nadal in of protocol. over betting scandals while the Rome and he is on a hot streak Japan Tennis Association man- image of Japan’s ancient sport of after sweeping the honours on seed Kei Nishikori, winner over Kontaveit of Estonia. aging director Tsuyoshi Fukui said sumo has long been tarnished by clay at Monte Carlo, Barcelona Spain’s David Ferrer 7-5, 6-2. The German’s 56-minute Mitsuhashi’s case would force claims of match-fi xing and links and last weekend in Madrid. Meanwhile defending cham- knock-out came two days after stricter education of players. to organised crime. “I am happy with almost eve- pion and world number one she was confi rmed at the top of “It’s honestly extremely sad,” Last year, badminton gold rything, I am playing well. I won Andy Murray was swept aside the WTA rankings, displacing Fukui told reporters. medal hope Kento Momota was a lot of matches this year,” said by home favourite Fabio Fognini Serena Williams after making it “We do warn players and kicked off Japan’s Rio Olympic the fourth seed, who next faces at the Italian Open on Tuesday, to the third round at last week’s coaches against getting involved team for gambling at an illegal either Jack Sock or Jiri Vesely as being completely outplayed in a Madrid Open. in match-fi xing but clearly we casino. he builds up to Roland Garros. Rafael Nadal of Spain (R) helps Nicolas Almagro of Spain who was 6-2 6-4 defeat. Second seed Karolina Plisk- need to do more. In one of the most unusual “There is always things to im- forced to abandon the match after an injury yesterday. ova beat Lauren Davis 6-1, 6-1, “We need to take tougher steps Japanese doping-relating cases prove, but it is not the right time WORLD NUMBER ONE Madrid winner Simona Halep to make sure the players are given in recent years, rugby player Ry- to say I’m not happy with one improving something.” of days. It’s diffi cult to see what’s KERBER CRASHES OUT started with a win over Germa- more detailed information about ohei Yamanaka was dropped for thing or another. Nadal though was distressed going on now just after what In women’s play, world number ny’s Laura Siegemund 6-4, 6-4 the dangers at stake.” the 2011 World Cup and banned “I am happy with everything. to see Almagro injured. happened,” he said. one Angelique Kerber crashed and eighth seed Elina Svitolina Mitsuhashi asked Joshua for two years for failing a drugs But always there is the motiva- “It’s diffi cult to say something Joining Nadal in the next out, the top seed beaten 6-4 6-0 put out Alize Cornet 6-4, 7-6 Chetty to approach another test after taking a hair product to tion to keep going and to keep because we need to wait a couple round was Japanese seventh in the second round by Anett (13/11). player about fi xing a match at an help grow a moustache. Gulf Times Thursday, May 18, 2017 5 SPORT

NBA NHL Predators mince Ducks to take Curry scores 29 as series lead

AFP with it that we would eventu- Los Angeles ally get one to drop and then see where it goes from there.” Laviolette admitted however oman Josi scored on a that he had wondered if the Warriors crush Spurs power play late in the Ducks would be able to defend third period to give their lead after watching Gib- the Nashville Preda- son’s display in goal. torsR a 2-1 victory over the Ana- “You think you’re playing a heim Ducks and a 2-1 series good game. It’s so tight. The lead in their Western Confer- scores at this time of the year ence fi nals on Tuesday. generally are fairly low,” he Anaheim had led 1-0 said. “And you wonder if 1-0 is to lead series 2-0 through 40 minutes but lost for going to do it for the night. the fi rst time in the postseason “So there was a lot of at- when defending a lead in the tempts. There was a lot of op- ‘They came out with a sense of urgency from the beginning and they did that for 48 minutes’ third period. portunities. The Predators were always Their goaltender played able to remain in touch with well and gave them a chance to AFP goalie Pekka Rinne making hang in there and win a hockey Oakland, United States 19 saves for the win, with the game. But going out for the Ducks’ John Gibson blocking third, I think our guys stepped 38 shots. on the gas a little bit more and tephen Curry scored 29 Josi scored on the fi rst pow- continued to push in the off en- points as the Golden er-play tally of the series for sive zone.” State Warriors thrashed Nashville, burying the rebound Earlier, the Ducks opened the San Antonio Spurs after Mattias Ekholm’s eff ort the scoring on their fi rst power 136-100S to take a 2-0 lead in cannoned off Viktor Arvidsson. play to take a 1-0 lead through their Western Conference fi nals The Predators had tied it at 1-1 Corey Perry with 4:25 left in series on Tuesday. with 16:06 left in the third af- the second period. Perry’s Curry’s points haul included ter Filip Forsberg pounced on a score came from just below six three-pointers as the War- rebound from a Ryan Ellis shot the Nashville goal line, rifl ing a riors all-round off ensive power to thread the puck through a shot off Rinne’s skate and into crushed a San Antonio Spurs crowded crease for the score. the net. line-up missing the injured Nashville also had two more Ducks coach Randy Carlyle Kawhi Leonard and Tony Parker. goal shots waved off in one paid tribute to Gibson’s shot- Curry also contributed seven eight-second spell, both de- stopping work in goal. assists and seven rebounds to nied by goaltender interfer- “Gibby gave us a chance. put the Warriors just two wins ence. He stood tall in the net and he away from reaching a third con- “You could sense going into gave us a chance. And that’s secutive NBA Finals in the best- that third period the guys were all you can really ask of your of-seven series. No fewer than saying the right things. They goaltender,” Carlyle said. “We seven Warriors cracked double were confi dent,” Predators just didn’t do a very good job in fi gures as the home side led from head coach Peter Laviolette front of him as far as managing start to fi nish before their home said afterwards. the puck and then managing fans at the Oracle Arena. “I think they believed that the people that were inside.” “I thought in game one we they were playing a decent Game 4 in the series takes didn’t come out with a sense game, and if we just stayed place in Nashville on Thursday. of urgency,” said Warriors act- ing coach Mike Brown, who is standing in for the injured Steve Tyson Fury promoter fears ‘disgraceful’ wait Kerr. “They came out with a sense of urgency tonight from Britain’s troubled former if UKAD speeded up the the beginning and they did that heavyweight world champion process and found Fury had for 48 minutes.” Tyson Fury could have to not taken the steroid then he The Warriors were quickly into wait until at least October could be back in the ring by their familiar scoring groove, to regain his licence, his July – with his ultimate goal sprinting into a 33-16 lead by the promoter Frank Warren said a title fight with compatriot end of the fi rst quarter and never yesterday. The 28-year-old, Anthony Joshua, who beat letting up. They led by 28 points who has not fought since Klitschko in an epic bout last — 72-44 — by half-time and ac- beating Wladimir Klitschko month. Warren said Fury celerated still further in the third to win the WBA, WBO and was training hard towards a quarter to lead 106-75. IBF heavyweight titles in possible return on July 8 in “You always try to build mo- November 2015, has to wait London. Fury beat Klitschko mentum and sustain it, for sure,” until a UKAD (UK anti-doping) on points in a world title fight Curry told reporters. inquiry has concluded. Fury in November 2015 and once “We had a point of emphasis and cousin and fellow heavy- held both the International of starting the game with a lot weight Hughie Fury tested Boxing Federation (IBF) and more energy and focus on the positive for the banned ster- World Boxing Association defensive end so that we could oid nandrolone in 2015. The (WBA) belts now held by Josh- just feel a little bit better about inquiry was halted last week ua. But he hasn’t boxed since, ourselves than we did last game by UKAD reportedly because with mental health problems in the fi rst quarter.” of a potential conflict of inter- forcing him to relinquish his San Antonio’s depleted of- Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry dribbles the ball against San Antonio Spurs centre Dewayne Dedmon (right) during the first quarter est involving a member of its titles, while his licence to box fense was led by Jonathon Sim- in game two of the western conference finals of the NBA playoff s at Oracle Arena. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports panel. If they find against Fury was subsequently suspended mons with 22 points. Only one – both deny the allegations by the British Boxing Board of other Spurs player made double who on Sunday had squandered grunt.” doesn’t deserve that.” us, obviously, with Andre out. – he could face a far longer Control. fi gures — Davis Bertans with 13 a 25-point third quarter lead be- Popovich meanwhile was crit- Curry meanwhile had nothing And he’ll probably get a lot more absence from the ring. — while LaMarcus Aldridge was fore Leonard suff ered his ankle ical of Aldridge for failing to as- but praise for Warriors young- minutes down the stretch of this “(If it drags on with UKAD restricted to just eight points. injury that left him sidelined on sume the off ensive responsibili- ster McCaw, who fi lled in for the series, and he hopefully can con- then the hearing) won’t be Tuesday. Popovich suggested his ties in the absence of Leonard. injured Andre Iguodala with 18 tinue to do the same.” heard until October,” said ‘Lack of edge’ team had been unable to mental- “He’s got to score for us. He points. “He was amazing,” Cur- Game 3 takes place at San An- Warren. “It’s a liberty. There’s San Antonio coach Gregg ly cope with the loss of Leonard can’t be timid. He can’t turn ry said. “Obviously with Andre tonio on Saturday and Brown has going to be a scream about Popovich gave a typically forth- for Game 2. down shots. He has to score. He’s (Iguodala) out, it was the next- already warned the Warriors to that. “That can’t be right. The right assessment of his team’s “The only way I can process is got to do it. No doubt about it,” man-up philosophy. Everybody expect a response in Texas. man’s got a living to get and obliteration. “It’s not what I ex- that I don’t think they believed. Popovich remarked, declining says it, but when you have a guy “It’s going to be a dog fi ght,” this thing took place in 2015. pected. Disappointed,” Popovich You have to believe. to explain Aldridge’s poor per- like Pat who doesn’t really know Brown said. “We’ve got to get “It’s disgraceful. You’ve either said. “They didn’t start the game formance. when his minutes are going to our guys ready to play a tough got a case or you haven’t The blowout capped a miser- with belief. And it showed “I’m not going to psychoana- come, he always stays ready. Game 3. Because if we don’t we got a case.” Warren, 62, said able few days for San Antonio, with the lack of edge, intensity, lyze him,” Popovich said. “He “That was a huge pickup for could end up losing the game.”

MLB FOCUS Orioles beat Tigers ICSS establishes special investigations Agencies seven hits in three innings.Al- New York bert Pujols’ bases-loaded single in the bottom of the 11th inning hris Davis homered in capped a two-run rally that gave unit led by top anti-corruption experts consecutive at-bats in ex- Los Angeles a win over Chicago. tra innings, and the Balti- Cameron Maybin’s fi fth hit of more Orioles outslugged the game was the key to in the By Sports Reporter Intelligence Service, and ICSS Insight theC Detroit Tigers for a 13-11. decisive comeback, a bloop dou- CEO Emanuel Macedo de Medeiros, who Doha Davis hit a solo home run ble that drove in Danny Espinosa will be able to provide his legal expertise in the 12th and a tiebreaking to tie the game 6-6. After Mike and knowledge from 30 years as a sports two-run shot in the 13th off Trout was walked intentionally s part of its commitment to help lawyer, and as a former CEO of the Euro- Francisco Rodriguez after both to load the bases, Pujols hit the safeguard sport and to meet the pean Professional Football League. teams scored three times in the ball over the drawn-in outfi eld growing demand for independ- Speaking of the establishment of the 12th. Mark Trumbo hit a two- to end it. The White Sox scored ent investigations within the new unit, Hershman said, “The estab- out, game-tying home run in three in a wild ninth inning to industry,A the International Centre for lishment of a dedicated special inves- the ninth, and J.J. Hardy also extend the game, then took a 6-5 Sport Security (ICSS) has announced the tigations unit by the ICSS is another homered for Baltimore. Detroit’s lead in the 11th on Tim Ander- establishment of a dedicated Special In- signifi cant step forward in the evolution J.D. Martinez hit two home runs, son’s home run. vestigations Unit (SIU). of the ICSS and aims to provide an im- including a grand slam off Brad Led by ICSS Group CEO Michael portant and independent investigations Brach in the seventh. RESULTS Hershman, co-founder of Transpar- service for organisations and individuals Meanwhile Dallas Keuchel be- Orioles 13 Tigers 11 (13 inn) ency International and international across the sports industry. came the fi rst seven-game win- Astros 12 Marlins 2 anti-corruption expert, the dedicated “With many governing bodies and or- ner in the major leagues as Hou- Angels 7 White Sox 6 (11 inn) unit will off er confi dential investiga- ganisations across the sports movement ston coasted to a rout of Miami. Rockies 7 Twins 3 tion services, specialised training and continuing to adapt their integrity and Keuchel allowed two runs Giants 2 Dodgers 1 independent integrity advice to support including match fi xing, illegal betting law enforcement sector, including sen- safeguarding resources, it was vital that and four hits in fi ve innings. He Brewers 6 Padres 2 governing bodies, law enforcement, ath- and money laundering, athlete welfare ior management roles at Interpol’s Sport the ICSS builds on its existing portfo- has won nine straight decisions Athletics 9 Mariners 6 letes and other stakeholders across the including sexual harassment and abuse, Integrity division as well as within the lio of projects within the sport integrity since last August and lowered Rockies 7 Twins 3 sports industry regarding investigations confl icts of interest and ethics’ cases, Australian police force and Royal Cana- marketplace and formalises the creation his ERA to 1.84. Jake Marisnick Rangers 5 Phillies 1 into alleged misconduct and integrity and human traffi cking. The SIU will use dian Mounted Police. of a structured and dedicated ICSS Spe- and Brian McCann drove in four Nationals 8 Pirates 4 violations in their sport. As part of its ICSS’s international network of experts The ICSS will also be able to draw on cial Investigations Unit that will provide runs apiece as Houston raised Cubs 9 Reds 5 portfolio of services, the SIU will provide and be staff ed by two ICSS directors additional resources and expertise with- an additional and dedicated integrity the best record in the majors to Braves 9 Blue Jays 5 support and training to investigate al- and experienced senior investigators, in the group including ICSS Enterprise resource for Presidents, C-level execu- 28-12. Miami lost for the 16th Rays 6 Indians 4 legations across several areas adversely Fred Lord and Dale Sheehan, who pos- CEO Dr. Shaun McCarthy, who served tives, executive committees, General time in 20 games as Tom Koeh- Yankees 7 Royals 1 aff ecting sport, including administra- sess a combined 60 years international as an intelligence and counter-terrorism Counsels and outside law fi rms working ler was tagged for eight runs and Red Sox 6 Cardinals 3 tive corruption and misconduct, fraud experience in the anti-corruption and offi cer with the South African National in the sports industry.” Gulf Times 6 Thursday, May 18, 2017 SPORT

CYCLING AFTERMATH Rio 2016 appeal to Fraile breaks duck, government to pay outstanding debt

Reuters paid only 30mn, while the federal gov- Sao Paulo ernment promised 100mn reais and Dumoulin controls paid less than 60mn. The Paralympics took place two razil’s Olympic organisers have weeks after the fl agship event but asked federal and municipal lacked sponsors and organisers and Dumoulin maintains overall governments to help them pay struggled to sell the TV rights. That back a defi cit of 117mn reais shortfall meant some countries sent lead of 2min 23sec on Quintana ($37.8mn)B incurred in the hosting of reduced teams to Rio de Janeiro. Giro rivals the Paralympics, the spokesman for the The Rio Olympics, the fi rst ever held games said on Tuesday. in South America, were considered a AFP Mario Andrada said the request, sporting success, but like the World Bagno di Romagna, Italy which comes in spite of repeated prom- Cup held in Brazil two years previously, ises the games would not need public they have been widely criticised for money, was necessary because the two poor planning and the lack of legacy. paniard Omar Fraile broke his governments did not provide the fund- Several of the main venues, includ- grand tour duck with victory in ing they promised to host the Paralym- ing the aquatics centre, are now lying a thrilling 11th stage of the Giro pics last September. abandoned. d’Italia yesterday that ended “We talked to them and told them Landmark projects such as a new met- theS hopes of Britain’s Geraint Thomas. the situation and they have said they ro line stopped miles short of the main Tom Dumoulin retained the pink will help,” Andrada told Reuters. Olympic Park, and much of the building jersey after a 161 km ride from Flor- “The defi cit in December was 132mn for the games has come under investiga- ence to Bagno di Romagna that saw reais and we have reduced it to 117mn so tion in a sweeping corruption probe. the Dutchman and his Sunweb team far this year. We negotiated with sup- Andrada said the Games were an pushed all the way before he main- pliers and we are talking to the govern- overall success and claimed that every tained his overall race lead of 2min ment.” country since Sydney had ended their 23sec on 2014 champion Nairo Quin- The Rio city government said it was Olympic year in the red. tana (Movistar). analysing the contracts but the sports “The games cost 2.8bn dollars,” he Italy’s two-time and defending ministry strongly denied Andrada’s said. “That defi cit of 132mn reais is champion Vincenzo Nibali (Bahrain), allegations and said it had “complied around 1 percent. As a percentage it is who saw teammate Franco Pellizotti fully with all its commitments.” small.” crash but get back on his bike, remains “The federal government does not There is no guarantee that either fi fth overall at 2:47 as the contenders consider that it has anything pend- government will be able to pony up the for the “maglia rosa” look forward to ing with the Rio 2016 Committee,” the money Andrade claims is owed. two days of comparative rest on stages ministry said in a statement. Brazil is currently in a fi nancial bind 12 and 13, which are more suited to Andrada said the municipal admin- as it stumbles through its worst reces- sprinters. istration promised 150mn reais and sion in almost a century. The overall victory hopes of Sky rider Thomas, whose bid more or less ended when he lost over fi ve minutes in a crash on Saturday, now look con- Drug-busting reforms on agenda at clusively over after the Welshman fi n- ished 2min 25sec in arrears to drop to WADA board meeting over six minutes behind Dumoulin. Despite his signifi cant advantage The thorny issue of creating a new has failed to ensure clean competi- following victory in the 10th stage drug-testing authority independent tion and creates obvious conflicts of time trial on Tuesday, Dumoulin had of international federations will be interest for sports federations. to rely on his team to chase down and on the agenda here today at a key WADA launched a working group control a number of attacks. meeting of the World Anti-Doping last November to study the proposal He was quick to pay tribute, giving Agency just eight months ahead of of setting up an independent testing Sunweb and in particular rider Lau- the Winter Olympics. authority. The findings of that work- rens ten Dam the thumbs-up as he Currently in the fight against drugs, ing group are expected to be one of crossed the fi nish line to thank them Spaniard Omar Fraile of team Dimension Data celebrates as he crosses the finish line to win the 11th stage of the Giro d’Italia individual international federations the key items on the agenda for this for keeping the threats to a minimum. in Bagno di Romagna, Italy, yesterday. (AFP) wield varying degrees of power week’s meeting of the WADA Foun- “We expected a really hard fi ght to- over doping controls, in many cases dation Board in Montreal, which day, and it was,” said Dumoulin, who a counter-attacking group containing “I’ve been waiting for this day for a 4. Tanel Kangert (AST) s.t. acting as judge and jury, according gets under way today. pushed Quintana into second when Portugal’s former world champion Rui long time,” said Fraile, a former win- 5. Giovanni Visconti (BAH) s.t. to critics of the system. The push for an independent test- he fi nished 49secs ahead of second- Costa, the Spaniard did well to keep ner of the Tour of Spain’s King of the 6. Ben Hermans (BMC) s.t. The International Olympic Commit- ing authority is not to everyone’s placed Thomas on Tuesday. some powder dry. Mountains jersey. 7. Dario Cataldo (AST) s.t. tee, which faced a barrage of criti- taste however. Several powerful “We expected guys to attack on the Their three-man lead group in- “I marked Rui Costa at the end be- 8. Simone Petilli (UAE) s.t. cism last year for its response to the federations, notably world football’s fi rst climb, and they did. All I can do creased to four in the fi nal kilometres cause I knew he was the strongest 9. Maxime Monfort (LOT) +03sec Russia doping scandal, has already governing body FIFA, have already is thank my team. They always kept when Tanel Kangert (Astana) tagged of our bunch. It’s a victory I’ve been 10. Laurens De Plus (QST) s.t. sought to increase independence by indicated they want to be exempt it within distance. It was a really good along with less than two kilometres dreaming of for many years.” GENERAL CLASSIFICATION handing primary responsibility for from the proposed reforms. day, I’m really happy. Laurens is our remaining. At 229 km, the 12th stage on Thurs- 1. Tom Dumoulin (SUN) 47:22:07sec sanctioning to the Court of Arbitra- Irrespective of those tensions, old warrior, he’s getting better with The Estonian launched a bid for day is the longest on the race, although 2. Nairo Quintana (MOV) +2:23 tion for Sport. however, the IOC is sticking to its age. Like a good wine.” stage victory in the fi nal kilometre after two manageable climbs the 3. Bauke Mollema (TRE) +2:38 At an Olympic summit last October goal of having a reformed system in With over 4,000 metres of climb- and, for a brief moment, it looked like sprinters teams will be expected to set 4. Thibaut Pinot (FDJ) +2:40 the IOC called for the creation of a place by the time of next February’s ing on the stage, the attacks came the four leaders would be thwarted their fast men up for a bunch sprint. 5. Vincenzo Nibali (BAH) +2:47 new body for independent testing Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, thick and fast but mountain man Fraile when the peloton came over the hori- 6. Andrey Amador (MOV) +3:05 while barring international sports South Korea. “We intend to make seized the day. zon with 400 metres to race. STAGE RESULTS 7. Bob Jungels (QST) +3:56 federations from drug-testing the controls totally independent He managed to join Sky rider Mikel But Fraile, 26, countered, driving for 1. Omar Fraile (DDD) 4:23:14 8. Tanel Kangert (AST) +3:59 responsibilities. of the IOC,” IOC president Thomas Landa in a two-man breakaway and the fi nish inside the fi nal 200 metres 2. Rui Costa (UAE) same time 9. Domenico Pozzovivo (ALM) +4:05 The IOC argues the present system Bach said. when they were eventually reeled in by to cross the line in triumph. 3. Pierre Rolland (CAN) s.t. 10. Ilnur Zakarin (KAT) +4:17

Former MotoGP not say how severe any injuries might host the World Cup a year later when yesterday agreed to an emergency The ARU has said either Perth-based the relatively flat 192.5km stage into be. Media reports said the “Kentucky they will share the same pool as Ireland, meeting after the country’s top players Western Force or the Melbourne Morro Bay, but his Bora-Hansgrohe champion Hayden hit Kid”, who won the MotoGP champi- Scotland and the third European team to said the game was being damaged by Rebels would be culled, throwing the teammate Rafal Majka retained the by car in Italy onship on a Honda in 2006, was in a qualify for Pool A, likely to be Romania. “the fiasco” surrounding the axing of sport into disarray and causing anger. yellow jersey he won on Monday’s hilly serious condition. The Asian champions shed their erst- Super Rugby teams. The call follows an The Force’s parent body RugbyWA has ride through Northern California. Majka American former MotoGP champion while tag as World Cup whipping boys announcement in April that two South launched legal action while the Rebels leads Lotto NL-Jumbo’s George Bennett Nicky Hayden was taken to hospital Japan to host All at the 2015 tournament, where they African teams and one from Aus- have also made clear it will seek com- with Team Sky’s Ian Boswell third in the yesterday after being struck by a car recorded three victories under current tralia would be cut from the southern pensation if disbanded. overall standings. Daniel Jaramillo of while training on his bicycle along Blacks next year England boss Eddie Jones, including a hemisphere competition from 2018, UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling is leading Italy’s Adriatic coast, the World Su- stunning 34-32 win over two-time cham- streamlining it from 18 sides to 15. Late Sagan wins third stage the King of the Mountain competition. perbike series said. Its off icial website Japan will take on World Cup holders pions South Africa. yesterday, the ARU agreed to hold Monday’s stage included a violent (www.worldsbk.com) said the 35-year- New Zealand in a one-off home Test in the meeting after a joint request from in California crash by Latvian rider Toms Skujins, old, who rides for the Red Bull Honda November next year, Japanese rugby ARU agrees to the Rugby Union Players’ Association who suff ered a concussion, a broken team, was hit while training near the off icials said yesterday. The match will (RUPA) and the Victorian Rugby Union Slovakia’s Peter Sagan turned on the collarbone and grazing that forced him east coast resort of Rimini following be played on November 3, 2018, and emergency meeting (VRU). “We will aim to hold this meet- jets during the final uphill stretch to to withdraw from the race. The seven- a race at Imola. “Ambulances arrived will be the first time the Brave Blossoms over Super ‘fi asco’ ing within the next seven days,” Aus- clinch the third stage of the Tour of Cal- day race continues on Wednesday with and Hayden was taken directly to the face the All Blacks since 2013, when they tralian Rugby Union (ARU) chairman ifornia on Tuesday. Sagan, a two-times a 159.5-km ride from Santa Barbara to hospital,” it added. The statement did were thumped 54-6 in Tokyo. Japan will Australia’s national governing body Cameron Clyne said in a statement. world road race champion, clinched Santa Clarita.

SPOTLIGHT GOLF / INFINITI MONTHLY OPEN Pedder wins India Cup LG Golf Tournament In-form Coleman wins

By Sports Reporter Division I in a close aff air Doha By Sports Reporter off a handicap of 36. Her round featured Doha four pars, including one at the challeng- ohann Pedder played fl aw- ing 15th hole. Jinok fi nished six shots less golf to score an impressive ahead of second place Beth San Jose. four-under par to emerge vic- oha Golf Club held its second Men’s Division 2 saw some excep- torious in the inaugural India Infi niti Monthly Open last tional scores, with all the top 10 players CupY LG Golf Tournament, organised by weekend, with the theme of fi nishing below their handicap. It was Indian Sports Centre (ISC) under the Players Championship. 16-handicap Su-Ung Jang who was patronage of the embassy of India at DThe event, supported by Infi niti and victorious with a stunning 63 nett. Jang the Doha Golf Club over the weekend. Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana group, was fi nished four shots clear of Peter Hope. As many as 40 Indian golfers par- another great success with 124 golf- In Mens Division 3, Andrew Muir- ticipated in the tournament, which ers taking part, following on from last head came out on top with a nett 69 was played on a Strokeplay and Team month’s equally successful Infi niti playing off a handicap of 22, including Scramble format. Arnab Dutta too Masters Tournament. a birdie on par-three 17th. Andrew fi n- carded four-under but was declared Some excellent scoring was on show ished 2 shots clear of a fi ve-way tie for runner-up on countback. despite some tough pin positions and second place. The Best Gross prize was won by breezy conditions. Following play, all the golfers had Arnav Jain, with Saad Kazi as the run- Indian ambassador P Kumaran (front, third from left) and Indian Sports Centre off icials pose with the winners of the India Men’s Division 1 was a close aff air the option of taking part in the Infi n- ner-up. The team of Sheji Valiyakath Cup LG Golf Tournament, including champion Yohann Pedder (front, third from right). with only two players breaking par. The iti fl oating green challenge. The target and D Anand won the Scramble com- in-form Ben Coleman was victorious was a boat in the lake between holes 9 petition, ahead of Sandeep Nanda and Closest To Rope and PK Mathew won distribution function and dinner for away the winner’s trophy to Pedder. with a gross 75 nett 70 to take a one- and 18 sitting 155 yards away. Dinesh Prakash Iyer. the Closest To Pin awards. all the golfers and gave away prizes ISC president Nilangshu Dey said shot victory over Arnav Jain. Ben’s win Kumar managed to land his second Cherehzade Pedder won the Long- LG-Video Home CEO CV Rappai, to the winners. Indian ambassador P that under a new initiative headed by was his second in seven days. ball in the boat with a 6 iron to take the est Drive, Manoj Megchiani won the COO Rohit Pandit and general man- Kumaran, an avid golfer himself, par- Manoj Megchiani, golf will be promot- The Ladies Division was won by Jinok spoils in an exciting challenge that will Longest Putt, Kunal Bhatia won the ager Mohamed Anis hosted a prize ticipated in the tournament and gave ed in the Indian community. Kim with a wonderful nett 67 playing be back again in the future. Gulf Times Thursday, May 18, 2017 7 SPORT

INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE TRI-SERIES NZ beat Bangladesh by four wickets KKR advance aft er AFP economical on Wednesday, Dublin conceding just 36 runs, but that was his only wicket and it was Ish Sodhi was upstaged ew Zealand eased to him with two for 40, ending their second succes- Sarkar’s 67-ball innings which sive victory in the included just fi ve boundaries. one-day internation- Despite the short bounda- rain delay, to face Nal tri-series in Ireland, beating ries, Bangladesh struggled to Bangladesh by four wickets fi nd them with Mahmudullah with 15 balls to spare yesterday. the most successful, hitting six Set a modest target of 258, in his 51 while Mushfi qur hit the a fi fth wicket stand of 80 be- only six of the innings in his 55. tween Neil Broom and Jimmy Mosaddek Hossain picked up Neesham proved a match- the pace in the closing stag- winning one. Although Broom es with a run-a-ball 41 (four Mumbai in Qualifi er fell two runs short of his second boundaries) but it was New 50 of the series and Neesham Zealand — three places higher followed him back to the pavil- than Bangladesh in the rank- ‘We were 30 runs short. It was quite a tough wicket to bat on. The ball was holding up a ion immediately after reaching ings — who were the happier at the landmark, there was no late the break and the batsmen fi n- bit. It’s been quite a disappointing wicket all season. And they bowled really well on it’ scare for this impressive Black ished the job in some comfort. Caps side. After Luke Ronchi SCOREBOARD had given New Zealand their Bangladesh usual fast start (27 from 27 balls) Tamim c Munro b Neesham 23 skipper Tom Latham led from Sarkar c Latham b Sodhi 61 the front with 54 from 64 balls. Rahman b Santner 1 When he was dismissed in Rahim c Ronchi b Neesham 55 the 21st over, they were al- Shakib c Neesham b Sodhi 6 ready scoring at the required Mahmudullah c Rance b run-rate and although Ross Bennett 51 Taylor was leg before to Mus- Hossain c Rance b Bennett 41 tafi zur Rahman for 25, Broom Hossain c Rance b Bennett 6 and Neesham regained the Mortaza run out (Ronchi) 1 momentum which put them Hossain not out 0 fi rmly in control. Mustafizur not out 0 Rahman and Rubel Hossain Extras (1b 1lb 10w) 12 each took two wickets but the Total (9 wkts, 50 overs) 257 Bangladesh bowlers just did Fall of wickets: 1-72 (Tamim not have enough runs to play Iqbal) 2-79 (Sabbir Rahman) with on the compact Clontarf 3-117 (Soumya Sarkar) 4-132 ground. Bangladesh managed (Shakib Al Hasan) 5-181 (Mush- only 257 for nine despite three fiqur Rahim) 6-242 (Mah- batsmen making half centuries. mudullah) 7-253 (Mosaddek Soumya Sarkar, Mushfi qur Hossain) 8-255 (Mehedi Hasan) Rahim and Mahmuduallah all 9-256 (Mashrafe Mortaza) reached 50 but none could go Bowling: Rance 9-0-66-0 (1w), on and Sarkar ended up as the Bennett 10-1-31-3 (4w), Santner top scorer with 61. 10-1-36-1, Neesham 9-0-68-2 Hamish Bennett, the one (4w), Sodhi 10-1-40-2, Munro change in the Black Caps line- 2-0-14-0 up which beat Ireland in their New Zealand fi rst match on Sunday — he re- Latham c Mushfiqur Rahim b placed Scott Kuggeleijn — was Rubel Hossain 54 rewarded for an economical Ronchi c Mahmudullah b Mus- 10-over spell with two wickets tafizur Rahman 27 in the last over to fi nish with Worker run out 17 three for 31. Bangladesh also Taylor lbw b Mustafizur Rah- had to had make one change to man 25 their fi rst line-up with captain Broom lbw b Rubel Hossain 48 Mashrafe Mortaza, who had Neesham c Mosaddek Hossain been suspended for the Ireland b Mortaza 52 game last Friday, returning in Munro not out 16 Kolkata Knight Riders bowler Piyus Chawla (second left) celebrates with wicket-keeper Robin Uthappa (left) and teammates the dismissal of Sunrisers Hyderabad captain David place of Taskin Ahmed. Santner not out 5 Warner (second right) during the Indian Premier League (IPL) eliminator match in Bangalore yesterday. (AFP) The Tigers enjoyed a bright Extras (4 lb 10w) 14 start with Tamim Iqbal and Total (6 wkts, 47.3 overs) 258 Agencies of fi nishing higher on the points Umesh Yadav (2 for 21), did the rocking on to his backfoot and guile, pulling a bouncer straight Sarkar putting on 72 for the Fall of wickets: 1-39 (Ronchi) Bengaluru table in the league stage. But the job for him. pulling the leg-spinner to deep down the throat of Piyush at fi rst wicket but they had lost 2-80 (Worker) 3-110 (Latham) rain stopped just in time, allow- None of the Hyderabad bats- midwicket. At the halfway stage, deep square leg. two wickets by the fi rst drinks 4-147 (Taylor) 5-227 (Broom) ing for a six-over second inning, men could score a half century, the defending champions were With the ball not coming on break with Tamim caught on 6-241 (Neesham) quickfi re 32-run knock with Duckworth-Lewis method with skipper David Warner 61 for 1. With Shah Rukh Khan to the bat, Hyderabad batsmen the cover boundary for 23 and Bowling: Mortaza 6.3-0-58-1 by captain Gautam setting the target at 48. managing only 37 off 35 balls as in attendance, the men in purple could never get going. Vijay eight balls later, Sabbir Rahman (1w), Shakib 10-1-50-0 (1w), Gambhir led Kolkata However, it did not start well the highest score of the innings. did well to put a lid on Hydera- Shankar and Naman Ojha eked was bowled by Mitchell Sant- Mustafizur 9-1-33-2, Hasan Knight Riders to a sev- for KKR, as Chris Lynn, who had Coulter-Nile leaked just three bad’s run fl ow. out an expensive over from Boult ner, the Black Caps’ fi ve-wicket 8-0-45-0, Mahmudullah 1-0- en-wicketA victory against Sun- hit a six off the second ball, was runs from the penultimate over Umesh and Boult bowled bril- taking the Kiwi pacer for 13 runs. man of the match on Sunday. 8-0, Hossain 3-0-7-0, Hossain risers Hyderabad in a late fi nish controversially given out caught with Trent Boult (1 for 30) allow- liantly in the fi rst 10 overs with But Shankar was out soon Santner was even more 10-0-53-2. in the Indian Premier League behind off the third ball of the ing just seven in the fi nal over, the pair conceding 16 runs in with Coulter-Nile taking his (IPL) yesterday. With the win, innings. Chasing a Bhuvneshwar also taking the wicket of Naman three overs and 10 runs in two wicket only to pull off a superb Pakistan bans spinner Nawaz for one month the two-time champions made Kumar delivery, Lynn was ad- Ojha (16) off the final ball. overs respectively. Coulter-Nile catch off his own bowling to sent it to the second Qualifi er against judged to have edged ball on to Hyderabad got off to a sedate looked in good shape too, taking Chris Jordan back in the hut for a The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) yesterday banned all- Mumbai Indians. the keeper, although the bat ap- start, managing just 30 for 1 in the wicket of New Zealand cap- golden duck. rounder Mohamad Nawaz for one month and fined him Heavy showers coupled with peared to hit the ground. the Powerplay. In-form Shikhar tain Kane Williamson (24; 26b; “We were 30 runs short. It approximately $2,000 after he admitted failing to disclose an strong winds had delayed the Bhuvneshwar then ran Yusuf Dhawan (11; 13b; 1x4) skied a ris- 2x4, 1x6) who hit a good length was quite a tough wicket to bat approach by a bookmaker to engage in corrupt practices. start of the second innings after Pathan out the very next ball for ing Umesh delivery for wicket- delivery outside off stump on. The ball was holding up a The 23-year-old, regarded as a bright prospect for Pakistan, Sunrisers Hyderabad posted a a golden duck. Robin Uthappa’s keeper Robin Uthappa to pouch straight to Suryakumar Yadav - bit. It’s been quite a disappoint- was part of the Twenty20 squad in the West Indies in March below par 128 for 7. wicket made it 12 for 3 as he holed the ball. Warner, who has been playing in place of injured Man- ing wicket all season. And they but returned home without playing a match. He becomes Right at the end of the fi rst out to Dhawan on the square leg in red-hot form, found the fence ish Pandey - at extra cover. bowled really well on it,” said the second casualty of a wide-ranging investigation after innings, it started drizzling and fence off Chris Jordan’s bowling. just twice in the fi rst six overs In the next over, leg-spinner David Warner. fast-bowler Mohammad Irfan was banned for six months in no time it turned into heavy However, Gambhir then re- with Dhawan pulling Umesh for Piyush Chawla -- drafted in for Brief scores: Sunrisers Hydera- with six suspended and fined one mn rupees ($10,000) after rain, delaying KKR’s response stored order with a 19-ball 32 (2 another boundary before falling Colin de Grandhomme - scalped bad 128 for 7 in 20 overs (David admitting to similar charges. Four other players — Sharjeel after skipper Gambhir won the fours, 2 sixes) with Ishank Jaggi to his India teammate couple of the priced wicket of Warner who Warner 37; Nathan Coulter-Nile Khan, Khalid Latif, Nasir Jamshed and Shahzaib Hasan — are toss and chose to bowl seeing the (5) too staying unbeaten. overs later. saw his middle stump uprooted 3 for 20, Umesh Yadav 2 for 21) also under investigation by a three-member tribunal and are slow nature of the 22-yard strip. Earlier in the fi rst innings, It took the generally explosive trying to pull a back of a length lose to Kolkata Knight Riders 48 provisionally suspended. The cases pertain to corruption in If there had been no play at Gambhir was vindicated as his Warner eight overs to hit the delivery. Yuvraj Singh (9; 9b; for 3 in 5.2 overs (Gautam Gamb- the Twenty20 Pakistan Super League (PSL) held in United all, Hyderabad would have gone bowlers, led by fi t-again Nath- fi rst six of the match, punish- 2x4) struck two good looking hir 32 not out) by seven wickets Arab Emirates in February to March this year. through to Qualifi er 2 on account an Coulter-Nile (3 for 20) and ing a poor Piyush Chawla ball by boundaries but fell to Umesh’s (Duckworth-Lewis method)

SPOTLIGHT AZF’s Ramadan Festival continues to off er new opportunities By Sports Reporter year has been a key ingredient day of Ramadan. Doha in driving greater numbers of This year, AZF is also organ- people to participate. This clear ising an indoor hockey tourna- focus on satisfying a broad range ment for men for the fi rst time. uring the last six years, of interests and preferences has The tournament will run for Aspire Zone Founda- helped Aspire Zone become one four days from the 9th until the tion’s annual two- of the most popular destinations 12th of Ramadan in the Aspire week Ramadan Sports for members of the local com- Dome, the world’s largest multi- FestivalD (RSF) has become a munity and amateur sportsmen purpose dome. The tournament major fi xture in the calendar for and women to visit during the follows the great success of the sports enthusiasts across Qatar. Holy Month of Ramadan. Asian Nations Cup indoor hock- The festival has grown in popu- There have been a number of ey championship 2017 which larity thanks to a carefully de- signifi cant milestones and key took place last month. signed programme which com- moments during previous years. Other sporting tournaments prises a range of popular sports In 2014, AZF organised the fi rst included in this year’s festival appealing to a wide variety of American football and rugby programme are football, futsal, participants. competitions to take place dur- volleyball and basketball. AZF During each of the six years it ing Ramadan in Qatar. Before will also hold table tennis com- has been running, RSF has at- these started, AZF invited elite petitions for people with special tracted increasing numbers of international football players needs and is organising a vol- participants, whilst the number and coaches, including former leyball tournament for ladies in of sports events and activities Kansas City Chiefs star Husain collaboration with Qatar Women available has also grown. More Abdullah, to participate in a Participants of the first American Football competition organised by Aspire Zone Foundation during 2014 Ramadan Sports Festival. Sports Committee. than 1,300 participants took part range of activities. The Ramadan Sports Festival in 13 diff erent sporting events and During his visit, Abdullah Committee in Qatar. suls, diplomats, and bank em- one, upon request of the par- country given that cricket is one will be held during the fi rst two activities last year. This compares delivered workshops to partici- The following year, in 2015, ployees took part. Both tourna- ticipants, has turned into a larger of most popular sports among weeks of Ramadan (June 01-14). with the four sporting events that pants on the rules and regula- AZF launched the Aspire Em- ments were organised in part to league taking place yearly during Asian expatriates in Qatar. The During the two weeks, thou- took place in 2012 when the festi- tions of the game. Since then, bassies Futsal Tournament and support AZF’s mission to encour- the winter season. much-anticipated Cricket tour- sands of members from the local val was fi rst launched. interest in the sport amongst the Aspire Banks Football League age healthy lifestyles by giving During last year’s event, AZF nament will be held for the sec- community are expected to par- Aspire Zone Foundation’s fo- local sports enthusiasts has during Ramadan. people with offi ce-based, seden- launched a cricket tournament ond time this year, taking place ticipate in sports tournaments cus on ensuring that the festival grown rapidly, and there is now During the tournaments, large tary jobs opportunities to stay ac- designed to appeal to members on Aspire Zone’s Warm-up taking place across Aspire Zone’s has something new to off er each an American Football and Rugby numbers of ambassadors, con- tive during Ramadan. The Banks of the Asian community in the Track, from the 6th until the 8th world class sporting facilities.

Thursday, May 18, 2017 GULF TIMES SPORT

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Entire Arab region proud of Khalifa Khalifa stadium: stadium, says former Iraq striker The coolest raq’s prolifi c former striker Hussein rently an executive committee member played at the Khalifa Stadium,” he con- Saeed has showered glowing praise of the West Asian Football Federation, tinued. “We faced the Qatar national open-air venue on Khalifa International Stadium, added, “It was an outstanding football team there on many occasions such as calling it an “outstanding football monument at the time it was opened. the World Cup qualifiers and the Olym- Imonument”. “But now, after it has been redeveloped pic qualifiers for Los Angeles 1984 and Saeed also said that even at the time and is about to be reopened as one of the Seoul 1988. I remember having scored a in the world it was built in 1976, incidentally the very proposed venues of the 2022 FIFA World beautiful goal against Qatar in a quali- same year he started his decorated in- Cup, it will be one of the jewels the entire fier for Seoul, a game where we emerged By Sports Reporter tional techniques. We have an ternational career spanning 14 years, the Arab region can be proud of.” winners 3-1.” Doha energy centre located one kilo- iconic arena was synonymous with the Saeed looks back on his 14-year inter- Saeed ended by saying the stadium’s metre away from the stadium, beauty of the region, and of Qatar. national career with great pride – and regional eminence will turn into a pan- from where chilled water is The former striker, who scored 78 goals fondly remembers his goals in the Asian Asian one following its reopening tomor- ans attending the Emir brought in a pipeline to the ven- for Iraq and is ranked fi fth in the list of qualifi ers for the 1986 FIFA World Cup row. “The redeveloped Khalifa Stadium is Cup fi nal at Khalifa In- ue. Once it arrives here we are world’s all-time scorers in international that enabled his country to seal a berth in a venue that all Asian countries could be ternational Stadium pushing cold air on to the fi eld of football, spoke ahead of the Emir Cup Mexico. proud of,” he said. tomorrow will enter an play and spectator seating areas.” 2017 fi nal between Al Rayyan and Al Now 59, the legendary striker remi- “It proves that Qatar and the Arab open-airF stadium cooled to op- Extensive testing was con- Sadd, which will be the fi rst match to be lifa International Stadium had all the fa- nisced about playing at the iconic sta- world are capable of building great timal conditions, utilising inno- ducted both at the venue and played at the redeveloped venue. cilities that footballers of our generation dium many times throughout his career venues which can host major sporting vative cooling technology which before installation at Qatar Uni- The stadium is also a proposed venue needed,” Saeed said. – and en route to the 1986 fi nals. events. Qatar has already hosted many employs up to 40% less energy versity, in order to optimise the for the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar. Saeed, who is also a former president “In 1976, we took part for the first such big events and will succeed again in than conventional systems. Af- stadium design for the required “In 1976, when it was built, the Kha- of the Iraq Football Federation and cur- time in the Gulf Cup tournament and 2022.” (SC.qa) ter completion of the renova- air-fl ow on match days. tion work at the venue by the “When designing the technol- Supreme Committee for Delivery ogy, wind was the factor that we MOTORSPORT & Legacy (SC) and Aspire Zone considered the most in order to Foundation (AZF), a new roof ensure that the cold air was not covers the seated areas and air- taken out of the arena. In our cooling is in place for the fi eld of wind tunnel at Qatar Univer- play and all spectator areas. sity we simulated diff erent wind “We have designed the cool- speeds, and the current opening ing technology at Khalifa Inter- of the roof allows us to make the national Stadium to be energy cooling effi cient and avoids cold effi cient, and fully compliant to air escaping. This is the fi rst ever QSTK and QTCC the SC standards in terms of fi eld open-roof stadium of this size to of play and spectator seating area be air-cooled, and it will allow temperatures to reach 26 degrees a lot of events to take place here centigrade,” said Saud Abdul- throughout the year.” Aziz Abdul-Ghani, Professor Pointing to the over 500 noz- at the College of Engineering zles which all fans will see at the at Qatar University. “The cool- stadium on match day, Ghani ing system is intelligent and can concluded by highlighting how titles to be decided be controlled to temperatures the technology used has innova- to the optimal conditions for tive elements designed in Qatar. the amount of spectators in the “These nozzles are specially venue.” designed in Qatar, with plas- By utilising district cooling, tic moveable parts which are the venue will be cooled in a way more durable and allow air to be which lowers energy consump- pushed to the area we want it to tion and keeps fans and players reach. We are looking forward to this weekend alike comfortable regardless of welcoming fans to the arena and the temperatures outside. seeing them enjoy the cooled “District cooling means that conditions for the fi rst match at Al-Sulaiti has slender five-point lead over al-Naimi in Qatar Superstock 600 the cooling technology is 40% the new Khalifa International more sustainable than conven- Stadium.” By Sports Reporter Tomorrow, the track activity will Doha start at 16:00 with the Free Practice 1 and the Free Practice 2 will be at 18:45. Superpole 1 is scheduled at 20:45 and his weekend promises to be a Superpole 2 at 21:10. The Race 1 will grand fi nale to the local mot- start at 17:20 and Race 2 at 19:35. orsport season in Qatar. Both the Qatar Superstock 600 AL-KHELAIFI WITH THE ADVANTAGE T(QSTK600) and Qatar Touring Cars Similar to the QSTK 600, the QTCC ti- Championship (QTCC) titles will be de- tle will also be decided this weekend. cided in the respective fi nal rounds which Though championship leader Abdullah will take place at the Losail International al-Khelaifi has a much bigger than what Circuit. al-Sulaiti has. Al-Khelaifi has a 21-point In the QSTK 600, the battle since the advantage over second-placed Mansour fi rst round has been between Saeed al- al-Hajri. Sulaiti and Mashel al-Naimi. Even in the Al-Khelaifi has had a dominant season last round the two Qatari riders won one so far, winning nine races out of the ten race each. Al-Sulaiti has a slender fi ve- held so far. With two races to go in the sixth point lead going into the sixth and fi nal round, he will be hoping for a similar show. round and will have to keep al-Naimi at In the previous round though, Mahmoud bay to become the fi rst-ever rider to win Another close battle is expected between Saeed al-Sulaiti (right) and Mashel al-Naimi al-Khalaf had ended al-Khelaifi ’s winning the QSTK 600 crown. in the final round of the Qatar Superstock 600 which will be held at the Losail streak winning the second race but the “I am looking forward this fi nal round International Circuit this weekend. championship leader is keen to play it safe where the championship title will be and wrap up the title. Qatar to host fi rst 2018 ITTF decided. I am only fi ve points ahead of “I am looking forward the last round. Mashel. It will be crucial not to make any Even though I have a gap of 21 points ahead World Tour event mistake in order to get the championship of Mansour, I have to compete safely and but I know it will be a tight battle with not make any mistakes that could cost me The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) announced Mashel for the win. I would like to extend the title. I only need to fi nish above my the 12 cities that will host the 2018 ITTF World Tour events and my gratitude to my sponsor Ooredoo for main competitor Mansour to secure the Qatar will host the inaugural round in March next year. The supporting me and QMMF and Losail championship. It will be an interesting 2018 World Tour will be split into two tiers, six ITTF World Tour Circuit Sports Club for this champion- round for sure,” said al-Khelaifi . Platinum events, which is the new top tier of the World Tour and ship,” said al-Sulaiti ahead of this week- Omran Karama is in third place with six regular ITTF World Tour events. Notably, the six ITTF World end’s grand fi nale. 110 points and al-Khalaf with 100 points Tour Platinum events will have higher prize money and will be Al-Naimi, who has been riding a new is in fourth place. But the race winner in of a higher organisation level to ensure the attendance of the bike in the last three rounds, is ready for the fi fth round is looking to continue his world’s best players. the last battle of the season with al-Su- winning run. “Having missed one round I laiti. “I am very focused on the last round will be pushing very hard this weekend to of the championship and will try to win have a chance of passing Omran and se- Al Rayyan defeat Oman’s Al the title. There will be another thrilling curing third in the championship overall. Ettifaq in GCC Club basketball fi ght on the track with Saeed and Nasser I think it will be a one competitive round al-Malki for the victory. After the last Abdullah al-Khelaifi in action during the previous round of the Qatar Touring Cars as most drivers are up to speed by now Qatar’s Al Rayyan defeated Al Ettifaq of Oman 96-81 in the third track day I have a good feeling with the Championship at the Losail International Circuit. and most are fi ghting for the top three round match of the prestigious GCC Club Basketball Champion- bike and I will try to stay positive towards places,” said al-Khalaf. ship 2017 in Manama, Bahrain, on Tuesday. In the other fixtures, both races to clinch the QSTK600 title,” Another sub-plot to this weekend is Teenager Al-Qubaisi is now in fourth The QTCC Practice will be tomorrow Al Sadd of Qatar suff ered a 69-82 defeat at the hands of Al said al-Naimi. the exciting battle that’s expected be- place with 120 points, only two points at 17:15 and the races are scheduled on Ettihad of Saudi Arabia and Al Shabab of United Arab Emirates Nasser al-Malki is in third place in the tween Abdulla al-Qubaisi, Ali al-Sham- ahead of al-Shammari who is fi fth with Saturday at 18:35 and at 20:50. defeated Al Manama of Bahrain 102-93. The quarter-finals were championship with 169 points and has mari and Fahad al-Sowaidi who are bat- 118 points. Al-Sowaidi is in sixth place There is free entrance for all the fans at scheduled to be staged later yesterday. almost secured the third place overall. tling for the fourth place in the standings. with 101 points. the grandstand and also at the Paddock.

BOTTOMLINE Over 40 countries come together under Aspire Academy’s roof

By Sports Reporter shared unique aspects from their cul- a key pillar in Aspire Academy’s edu- Doha ture, including history, language, food, cational philosophy and supports the traditional games, while emphasising Academy’s approach to multicultural the similarities that exist across na- education, education for sustainable spire Academy recently held tions. development and international educa- its ‘Aspire Global Citizenship Speaking about the event, Aspire tion. Day’, bringing more than 40 Academy vice school principal Ahmed The Academy’s eff orts to organise nations and their unique cul- Hussain said, “Aspire Academy’s fac- such an event stem from its belief in turesA under its roof. ulty and students come from various the role of educators as agents of social Aspire Academy organises this ethnic and religious backgrounds, which change, helping students gain perspec- event to introduce student-athletes presents a unique learning opportunity tive about their role as part of the global to cultural and ethnic diversity that is for students. community and multicultural sports paramount to the success of the Acad- “The Academy’s diversifi ed workforce teams. emy. exposes student-athletes to people from To mark the event, Aspire Academy all over the world, helping develop well- was outfi tted to represent the diff erent rounded and well-educated sports cham- Aspire Academy off icials meet with countries across diff erent classrooms. pions.” the students before the event, Aspire Teachers from the exhibiting nations The concept of global citizenship is Global Citizenship Day.