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Friday, December 30, 2016 FOOTBALL Rabia II 1, 1438 AH ‘Fearless’ Jesus GULF TIMES set for stardom at Manchester City SPORT Page 4 HORSE RACING Tevez to earn more than Messi and De Vries caps year Ronaldo in China with Derby win Paris: With his transfer to Shanghai Shenhua, Carlos Tevez has be- come the biggest-earning footballer in the world, making even more than compatriot Lionel Messi and Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo. on Noor Al Hawa A source close to the player told AFP that the 32-year-old former ‘I don’t know what the plans from the owners are but I think he stays here’ Manchester United and Manchester City striker will make around 38mn euros a season in China. At the moment, Tevez banks a rela- tively modest 2mn euros a season with Boca Juniors. According to Portuguese media, Real Madrid star Ronaldo earns 23.6mn euros a season while Bar- celona ace Messi boasts a salary of 20mn euros. Ronaldo and Messi are also lagging behind Brazil’s Oscar whose switch from Chelsea to Shanghai SIPG last week guarantees him 24mn euros each season. Tevez married the mother of his three children, Vanesa Mansilla, last week in Uruguay only to discover that his home had been burgled when he returned.

Football’s top five salaries (based on media reports): 1. Carlos Tevez (ARG/Shanghai Shenhua/CHN) 38mn euros a season 2. Oscar (BRA/Shanghai SIPG/CHN) 24mn 3. Cristiano Ronaldo (POR/Real Madrid/ESP) 23.6mn 4. Lionel Messi (ARG/Barcelona/ ESP) 20mn Jockey Adrie de Vries rides Noor Al Hawa to victory in the Qatar Derby (Gr1) at the QREC yesterday. At right, HE Chief of Staff of the Qatari Armed Forces Lieutenant-General Ghanim bin Shaheen al-Ghanim . Hulk (BRA/Shanghai SIPG/CHN) (right) presents the trophy to Maseela race winner Faleh Bughanaim. At bottom, Al Wasmiyah Farm representatives celebrate with the trophy in the presence of HE Chief of Staff of the Qatari Armed Forces 20mn Lieutenant-General Ghanim bin Shaheen al-Ghanim and Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club chairman Issa bin Mohammed al-Mohannadi after Noor Al Hawa won the Qatar Derby (Gr1). PICTURES: Juhaim Woods worth By Mikhil Bhat ing duel concluded the run with Zuhair Doha Mohsen-trained Asaaf edging out Ste- Results $740mn, Jordan fano Ibido-saddled Salman Bu Thaila by the smallest of margins to win the Race 1: 1. Humam (Olivier Peslier), 2. a billionaire drie de Vries capped 2016 Qatar Derby for three-year-old Local Lawa’Has (Marco Monteriso), 3. Farfale (Har- with an amazing run at the Thoroughbreds. ry Bentley), 4. Al Mufajaah (Pier Convertino). Los Angeles: Golfers Tiger Qatar International Derby Darren Williams guided Cannon to Won by: 1 ¾, 5, 8. Time: 1:45.41. Owner: Umm Woods and Phil Mickelson and festival. early lead with the favourite Al Uraiq Qarn. Trainer: Alban de Mieulle. former NBA player Michael Jordan AOn Day One of the festival, the Secret, stepping up to 1850m for the Race 2: 1. Al Malhoufa (Harry Bentley), 2. are among the 20 wealthiest Ameri- Dutchman had three winners, includ- fi rst time, not too far behind under Ed- Al Sabba (Darren Williams), 3. Afra (Gaetan can celebrities, Forbes reported on ing Ateej for trainer Thomas Fourcy in uardo Pedroza. Faucon), 4. Kamila (Jean Baptiste Hamel). Wednesday. the feature. Coming on to the fi nal stretch, both Won by: 2, 1, 2. Time: 1:45.16. Owner: Khalifa Woods, 40, is the youngest person Yesterday, De Vries helmed Noor Al Cannon and Al Uraiq Secret couldn’t bin Sheail al-Kuwari. Trainer: Jassim Ghazali. on the Forbes top-20 list, with a net Hawa, trained by Germany’s Andreas keep up as Stephan Ladjadj and Alberto Race 3: Al Aayar (Rashid al-Marri), 2. Muja- worth estimated at $740mn. Wohler, to victory in the fi nale, the USD Sanna simultaneously got their partners, hidah (Harry Bentley), 3. Fer’Ha (Abdullah al- The 14-times major champion, who 500,000 Qatar Derby (Gr1) for three- Asaaf and Salman Bu Thaila respectively, Marri), 4. Bouhour (Alberto Sanna). Won by: trails only Jack Nicklaus (18 majors) year-old Thoroughbreds. to pick up the pace. With little between Hd, 4, 1 ½. Time: 1:29.87. Owner: Dhafi al-Ardi on the all-time list, recently launched Riding in the colours of Al Wasmi- them, stewards took a bit longer than al-Marri. Trainer: Mohamed Hussain. a competitive comeback after being yah Farm, De Vries had the colt track usual to announce Asaaf, owned by Ali Race 4: 1. Asaaf (Stephan Ladjadj), 2. Salman sidelined for more than 15 months the leading trio of Thewayyouwish, Ard Khalfan Mohamed Ali Sheban al-Suwai- Bu Thaila (Alberto Sanna), 3. Saqr (Gaetan while recovering from back surgery. San Aer and Al Mohalhal. di, as the winner at the post. Faucon), 4. Mosayter (Harry Bentley). Won Woods who went through a costly As the excited grandstand at the the big day when Olivier Peslier guided pulled further to win by a little under Mohamed Hussain-saddled Al Aayar by: Shd, 5, Hd. Time: 1:54.90. Owner: Ali Khal- divorce in 2010 and lost several Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club Umm Qarn’s Tayf and stablemate Hu- two lengths. Jassim Ghazali-saddled made an impression on one of the most fan Mohamed Ali Sheban al-Suwaidi. Trainer: sponsors after revelations of mul- approached, De Vries and his part- mam to victory in the Qatar Derby (Gr2 Farfale completed the podium. important racing days in Qatar under Zuhair Mohsen. tiple infidelity, is seventh on the ner moved past the leaders, with Pat PA) for four-year-olds and the Qatar Yousef Bentaher-trained Molheb Qatari jockey Rashid al-Marri, winning Race 5: 1. Molheb Al Naif (Gerald Avranche), list, while Mickelson is 18th, with an Cosgrave having Mohamed Hussain- Oaks for three-year-old Purebred Ara- Al Naif had won three out of his four the Purebred Arabians Special Condi- 2. Damas (Jean Baptiste Hamel), 3. Barre- estimated worth of $375mn. trained Gerrard’s Quest pick up the bian fi llies respectively. starts this year, and a win two weeks ago tions event yesterday. laman (Pier Convertino), 4. She’ris (Marco Jordan, 53, who retired in 2003 with pace too. Eventually, Cosgrave’s move In the penultimate race of the day, brought all the spotlight on to the grey Al Aayar took the lead early on, com- Monteriso). Won by: 2, 1, 4. Time: 2:12.81. Own- the mantle of arguably the greatest proved to be too late as Noor Al Hawa having stayed on the rails for the bulk son of Amer, coming into yesterday’s run. ing of Gate 10, and never gave it up, de- er: Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser al-Ahmed al- basketballer, is worth $1.2bn accord- had already surged ahead for a three- of the race, while Khalifa bin Sheail Yesterday, with Gerald Avranche at spite a threatening run by Mujahidah, Thani. Trainer: Yousef Bentaher. ing to the magazine, good for fourth length win in the 2000m race. al-Kuwari-owned Tekfi r led early on, the helm, the four-year-old did not dis- under Champion Jockey Bentley’s ride Race 6: 1. Tayf (Olivier Peslier), 2. Mith’Haf on the list, which is topped by film- “He was a little bit scared of the Peslier made good use of a gap on the appoint, leading throughout, barring a in the fi nal 100 metres. Athbah (Eduardo Pedroza), 3. Spaghetti maker George Lucas ($4.6bn). ground. He had performed well in Ger- outside, even as Harry Bentley had brief wrangle with Damas, trained by “Harry Bentley is a good rider, (Harry Bentley), 4. Carab (Pier Convertino). Forbes says eligibility for the list many on softer ground, but he seemed Spaghetti take the inside route to pass De Mieulle and ridden by Jean Baptiste Champion Jockey, and I thought it Won by: Nk, Nk, 1. Time: 2:11.44. Owner: Umm was limited to United States citizens to handle it well today. The concern was his stablemate. Hamel in the colours of Umm Qarn, on would be diffi cult for Rashid, who is Qarn. Trainer: Alban de Mieulle. who are rich because of their fame, unnecessary eventually,” said De Vries, At the post, Tayf edged out Mith’Haf the fi nal stretch. an apprentice rider, riding for the fi rst Race 7: 1. Noor Al Hawa (Adrie De Vries), 2. rather than famous because they referring to the three straight Listed/ Athbah for the win while HH The Emir’s However, Molheb Al Naif had that time. So it’s a hugely important win for Gerrard’s Quest (Pat Cosgrave), 3. Al Mohal- are rich. Group wins in Europe for the colt. Silver Sword and Qatar Silver Sword much more in him, despite a step up him,” Hussain said after the race. hal (Darren Williams), 4. Opera Baron (Harry According to Forbes, President-elect Eduardo Pedroza had helmed Noor Al winner Spaghetti was a close third. in distance, eventually winning by two Julian Smart’s charge Fer’ha fi nished Bentley). Won by: 3, 3/4, 1 3/4. Time: Owner: Donald Trump belongs in the latter Hawa for the hat-trick, but had already Humam stayed unbeaten in Qatar lengths. four lengths behind in fourth. Al Wasmiyah Farm. Trainer: Andreas Wohler. category. been claimed to ride Ibrahim al-Malki’s with a splendid victory in the Qatar Pierre Deymonaz-saddled Barrela- Khalifa bin Sheail al-Kuwari-owned Open ‘N Shut for yesterday’s race. Oaks for three-year-old Purebred Ara- man completed the podium. Al Malhoufa overcame an initial set- “He did everything right, and it was a bians fi llies. Avranche only had good things to back to pick up a memorable win in the she was pretty good. But she just went good choice,” Wohler said about having The Umm Qarn fi lly took her time say about his ride after the win. “He is Qatar Oaks for three-year-old Local up a couple of times and put her foot De Vries take the ride. to move up the order in the fi ve-horse not very mature in his mind. He is keen Purebred Arabians fi llies yesterday. over the sides. So I wasn’t sure that she Talking about Noor Al Hawa, Wohler race, which was being led by HH Sheikh sometimes, and relaxed sometimes. After putting her foot over the sides would be able to run. Thankfully she said, “After his runs last season, we had Mohamed bin Khalifa al-Thani-owned Specially in the corner, he hangs on to in the gates, she was on the turf under did,” Bentley said after the race. reckoned that he would run better on a Lawa’Has for the bulk of the mile-long the left. That also means, there is still a Bentley’s ride, eventually beating Ma- “She was fi ne once she got out of mile and a quarter, and he proved it right run. lot to work with. If he can gallop in a re- jed Seifeddine’s Al Sabba for the win, that. Good solid pace, I think I just here. I don’t know what the plans from A furlong from the post, Peslier’s laxed manner and turn properly, he will while Umm Qarn’s Afra fi nished third. wanted to get her behind a couple of the owners are but I think he stays here.” ride, trained by De Mieulle, eased by defi nitely win much more.” “She is a young horse, and hasn’t run them and settle her. In the end, it all Alban de Mieulle landed two wins on Julian Smart-schooled Lawa’Has and For the second straight race, a thrill- too many times. Going into the gates, worked.” Gulf Times 2 Friday, December 30, 2016 SPORT

FIDE WORLD BLITZ CHAMPIONSHIP: CARLSEN, KARJAKIN DOMINATE THE OPENING DAY

World champion Magnus Carlsen of Norway (L) and Sergey Karjakin (not in the picture) of Russia dominated the first 12 rounds of the World Blitz Championship at the Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena yesterday. Carlsen and Karjakin finished the day with 10 points each.(R) Women players in action on the first day of the championship. PICTURES: Shemeer Rasheed

AL RAYYAN INTERNATIONAL SHOW JUMPING CHAMPIONSHIP Al-Ghazali, al-Marri triumph The Qatari duo were in top form on the opening day

By Sports Reporter Doha

atari riders Nasser al- Ghazali and Rashid Towaim al-Marri put Qon a splendid show on the opening day of the Al Rayyan International Show Jumping Championship, by winning two of the three competitions held yesterday. Under the lights at the Qatar Equestrian Federation’s Main Arena, the Qatari duo enthralled the local crowd with their bril- liant show. In the feature event of the night, al-Ghazali and his 16-year-old mare Delloren com- bined to produce a fl awless rou- tine to clinch the 145cm class. The 20-year-old Al Ghazali is a 2014 Asian Games gold med- allist with Delloren and the pair once again showed their class last night. Delloren crossed the hurdles in a time of 31.08 sec- onds in the second run. Al Ghaz- Qatar’s Nasser al-Ghazali poses with his horse Delloren after he won the 145cm class, the main event on ali took home QR30,525 for his the opening day of the Al Rayyan International Show Jumping Championship at the Qatar Equestrian Qatar’s Rashid Towaim al-Marri astride Dolce Vita M gallops to victory in the 130/135cm class at the Al eff orts. Federation’s Main Arena yesterday. PICTURES: Lotfi Garsi Rayyan International Show Jumping Championship. The second place went to Sau- di rider Kamal Abdullah Baham- ner, Turkey’s Derin Demirsoy Sabah, riding under the FEI fl ag, am grateful for this win. I hope I ers in the fray. onds. The third spot was worth 1. Rashid Towaim al-Marri dan, astride Lacasino, which (Narazo De Nyze Z, 31.90 sec- guided Femke EC to the second can do it tomorrow also. It isn’t Earlier in competition one, QR4,500. (Qatar) Dolce Vita M. 56.18 secs. came home in 31.15 seconds. Ba- onds, QR12,210) fi nished sec- spot. Femke EC clocked a time of a surprise. My mare is a winner. Saudi Arabia’s Abdullah Alrajhi QR8,750 hamdan won QR24,420. ond, while American rider Reed 56.79 seconds as al-Sabah won She is always there to win. I have powered to opening win by guid- Results 2. Sheikh Yousuf al-Sabah (FEI) The third place went to Ba- Kessler (Tradition De La Roque, QR7,000. been riding with her six months. ing H Zoe to a smooth ride. H Zoe Special two phases, Art. Femke EC. 56.79. QR7,000 hamdan’s compatriot Ramzy 32.92 seconds, QR8,547) com- Saudi rider Abdulrahman She is a bit diffi cult at times clocked a time of 23.57 seconds 274.5.6 – 145 cm – Prize: 3. Abdulrahman Alhamazani Hamad al-Duhami. The Saudi pleted the top-fi ve in the day’s al-Hamazani, astride Birgitta, but I know her better now,” the as al-Rajhi celebrated the start QR122,100 (Saudi Arabia) Birgitta. 58.05. Rider, who won two events and main event. fi nished in third spot in a time 22-year-old said of the three-day championship 1. Nasser al-Ghazali (Qatar) Del- QR5,250 fi nished second in the feature Earlier, al-Marri had given of 58.05 seconds. Al-Hamazani “I want to thank God. I also with a purse of QR7,500. loren. 31.08. QR30,525 event at the Qatar International Qatar the day’s fi rst victory by won QR 5,250 for his eff orts. want to thank my father and HE Qatar’s young rider Saeed 2. Kamal Abdullah Bahamdan Two Phases, Art. 274.5.3 - 120 Show Jumping Championship winning in the 130/135cm class, “It is not easy to win this show. Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Tha- Nasser al-Qadi continued with (Saudi Arabia) Lacasino. 31.15. cm - Prize: QR30,000 last week, continued his red-hot with his 13-year-old mare Dolce The top international riders are ni for their support,” the Qatari his fi ne form by guiding Jessico 4 QR24,420 1. Abdullah Alrajhi (Saudi Arabia) form this week as well. Vita M. Dolce Vita M’s winning here,” a delighted al-Marri said added. to second place in a time of 25.23 3. J Ramzy Hamad al-Duhami H Zoe. 23.57 seconds. Prize Al-Duhami and his nine- time was 56.18 seconds as it gal- after his victory. “We have the Saudi duo of Khaled Abdulaziz seconds. Al-Qadi won QR6,000. (Saudi Arabia) High Quality. money: QR7,500 year-old gelding High Quality loped in fi ne style, and was given best riders from this region and al-Eid (Moustic Des Flayelles, In third place was Kuwait’s 31.26. QR18,315 2. Saeed Nasser al-Qadi (Qatar) J fi nished their routine in 31.26 a thunderous round of applause from Europe,” he added. 58.72 seconds, QR3,500) and Sheikh Yousaf al-Sabah – rid- Jessico 4. 25.23. QR6,000 seconds, which fetched al-Du- from the home crowd. Al-Marri Al-Marri was hoping to con- Bader Mohammed Alfard (Fulla, ing under the FEI fl ag – who Table A, One round against the 3. Sheikh Yousuf al-Sabah (FEI) hami QR18,315. won the top prize of QR8,750. tinue his fi ne from in the next 58.77 seconds, QR2,450) com- was astride Enjoy secured the clock Art. 238.2.1 – 130/135 Enjoy. 25.90 QR4,500. Last week’s feature event win- Kuwait’s Sheikh Yousuf al- two days of the competition. “I peted the top-fi ve out of 36 rid- third spot in a time of 25.90 sec- cm – Prize: QR35,000

FOCUS Champions speak on Aspire Academy panel

By Sports Reporter Organised as part of Aspire should they work for them.” in God’s plans for you.” Doha Academy’s eff orts to elevate the Meanwhile, Aspire Academy’ Established in 2004, Aspire learning experience of its stu- graduate Mutaz Barshim, win- Academy has two primary aims. dent-athletes with inspirational ner of the Athlete of the Year First, to identify and transform hree local sporting speakers, the panel discussion 2016 award for his silver-medal talented young athletes with real champions partici- focused on a variety of topics in- achievement at the 2016 Rio potential into world-renowned pated in a panel discus- cluding: the role of sports in shap- Olympics, and winner of the champions who represent Qatar Tsion yesterday on the ing players’ attitudes and leader- bronze medal in the 2012 Lon- in national teams across a wide theme: ‘So, do you want to be a ship qualities, achieving the right don Olympics, advised when range of sports. Its second pri- champion?’. Organised by Aspire balance between studying and asked about overcoming feelings mary aim is to promote a sports Academy, the panel included re- training, and what is required in- of envy in sports, “It’s absolutely culture in Qatar and the region. tired local basketball star, Yas- tellectually and emotionally to normal for athletes to feel slight Aspire Academy aims to de- seen Ismail, Olympic silver- achieve sporting success. envy towards their teammates’ velop students holistically, pro- medallist and Aspire Academy Commenting on the occasion, achievements, because we all viding individuals with a com- graduate, Mutaz Barshim, as Jassim al-Jaber, school principal, strive to be the best in what we prehensive academic, social and well as former tennis player and quoted boxing legend, Muham- do. What’s important is that we sporting education. prominent media personality, mad Ali, who said: “Champions turn this negative feeling into a To support student-athletes Mohamed Saadon al-Kuwari. aren’t made in gyms. Champions Mutaz Barshim, Mohamed Saadon al-Kuwari and Yasseen Ismail take selfies with student-athletes. positive motivator that pushes in fulfi lling their promise, there A large number of Aspire are made from something they us past our limits.” are fi ve major departments at Academy’s student-athletes and have deep inside them: a desire, “Aspire Academy wasn’t various panel discussions for our “Aspire Academy’s student- Prominent sports media per- Aspire Academy that specifi - Academy representatives at- a dream, a vision.” founded for the sole purpose of students.” athletes are very fortunate to sonality, Mohamed Saadon al cally look after their develop- tended the discussion, includ- He added that, “Aspire Acad- developing sporting talents, but Speaking at the panel discus- train within these state-of-the- -Kuwari, who was named Qatar’s ment: The Football Department, ing senior offi cials, coaches and emy provides its students with to also produce well-round- sion, Yasseen Ismail, the former art facilities and learn from the U18 champion for his achieve- the Football Performance and teaching staff such as, Deputy world-class facilities and ex- ed and educated individuals, star player of Al Rayyan SC who distinguished level of expertise ments as part of the national ten- Science Department, the Sports Director General, Ali Salem pertise, but it’s the students’ equipped with the highest lev- led the national basketball team provided for them. I urge them to nis team, said to the young ath- Department (non-football), the Afi fa, Director of Education and responsibility to adopt the right els of athletic, academic and for over 20 years and has been take full advantage of the oppor- letes: “You must adopt a winning Sports Science Department, and Student Care, Badr al-Hay and attitudes and invest in hard work personal skills. That is also why dubbed one of the best basketball tunities they encounter as these mentality, believe in your talents, the Education and Student Care School Principal, Jassim al-Jaber. to achieve their goals. the Academy strives to organise players in Qatar’s history, said: will help them reach their goals, always give it your best, and trust Department. Gulf Times Friday, December 30, 2016 3 FOOTBALL

PREVIEW SPOTLIGHT Alli double sees Spurs ease past Record-chasing Southampton Chelsea out to stoke title dreams Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Bournemouth on Boxing Day was their 12th in succession, leaving them two wins short of Arsenal’s overall top-flight record of 14 Tottenham Hotspur’s English midfielder Dele Alli blows kisses as he celebrates scoring their fourth goal against Southampton.

AFP fi elder Victor Wanyama had giv- Southampton en away the free-kick for the goal on his fi rst return to his old club and Mousa Dembele was booked ele Alli scored twice as for chopping Nathan Redmond Tottenham came back down to end another attack. from behind to win Fraser Forster had little to do in emphatically, 4-1, at the Southampton goal but found SouthamptonD on Wednesday. himself picking the ball out of Harry Kane, who missed a the net in the 19th minute when penalty, and substitute Son He- Moussa Sissoko saw his cross ung-min were also on the score- from the left defl ected upwards sheet in a game that saw Virgil off Redmond. That allowed Alli van Dijk give Southampton an to out-jump van Dijk and plant early lead. a header past Forster that went Nathan Redmond was sent off in off a post. Parity perhaps fl at- soon after Kane had made it 2-1 tered Tottenham but they made and although the England strik- good use of their good fortune to er failed to convert the result- fashion a number of chances. ing penalty Southampton tried Christian Eriksen twice failed in vain to prevent a hefty defeat to hit the target after getting that moved Tottenham to within himself into promising shooting a point of fourth-place Arsenal positions before Wanyama, hav- in the Premier League table. ing burst into the box and got the It took Southampton all of 69 better of van Dijk, saw his shot seconds to take the lead, through blocked by Saints skipper Jose van Dijk. The Netherlands de- Fonte. Tottenham made a much fender, coveted by a number of better start to the second half and Premier League rivals and valued took the lead in the 52nd minute in the £30million bracket, rose to through the previously-dormant meet James Ward-Prowse’s free- Kane from a corner won by Kyle kick to send a downward header Walker and delivered by Erik- beyond Hugo Lloris in the Tot- sen. Southampton’s marking was tenham goal. poor to say the least as the Eng- The home side were full of en- land striker rose unchallenged ergy and aggression — the brand to head into the top corner. Jose of football Pochettino brought Fonte headed over from a free- with him to the St Mary’s Stadi- kick at the other end before the um before leaving for Tottenham home side found themselves a in May 2014. man down when Redmond was Chelsea’s Belgian midfielder Eden Hazard (CL) celebrates with teammates after scoring their second goal from the penalty spot during their English Premier League game The Argentinian could not sent off for impeding Alli from against Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge in London on December 26. have enjoyed the way his play- behind in the act of shooting. ers were being put under con- Referee Mike Dean awarded a AFP scorer Diego Costa — banned on Boxing Guardiola’s Bayern Munich during his 15th-place Middlesbrough visit on New stant pressure and there were penalty and sent Redmond pack- London Day — return to the starting XI. Midfi eld successful spell as Borussia Dortmund Year’s Eve. a number of nervy moments as ing before Kane stepped up to lynchpin N’Golo Kante is also available coach. Henrikh Mkhitaryan netted a stunning they attempted to stem the tide send the spot-kick soaring over again after suspension. “I am really looking forward to it. They ‘scorpion kick’ volley as Jose Mourinho’s of Saints attacks. the bar in the style of a rugby helsea can take another step to- Stoke fell to a 4-1 defeat at Liverpool are an outstandingly good side and we men beat Sunderland 4-1 last time out, Former Southampton mid- conversion. wards English football history on Tuesday, having gone ahead through are not too bad, so it will be a nice game.” which was a further sign that belief has when they host Stoke City to- Jonathan Walters, and left-back Erik Pi- Arsenal, two points below City in returned to Old Traff ord. morrow, as the Premier League’s eters has urged his team-mates to show fourth place, will look to build on Mon- “We have a lot of confi dence now Karanka looks to put one over old pal Mourinho jam-packedC festive schedule rumbles more belief against the leading sides. day’s last-gasp 1-0 win over West Bro- and we’re in good shape,” Daley Blind, into 2017. “Sometimes we have a good 20 min- mwich Albion when they host Sam Al- who scored United’s opening goal, told London: Middlesbrough manag- football, and three important Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Bournemouth utes, sometimes we have a good second lardyce’s Crystal Palace on New Year’s MUTV. “We need to work hard and keep er Aitor Karanka will forget about points to play for. on Boxing Day was their 12th in succes- half, but in patches we have been bad — Day. that feeling up and win games. Of course friendship to focus on outwitting In those 90 minutes you can’t sion, leaving them two wins short of Ar- we need to learn to control the game,” Arsene Wenger’s side had lost their we want to keep this run going and we’ll his mentor Jose Mourinho when be friends. I spent three amazing senal’s overall top-fl ight record of 14, set said the Dutchman, whose side are 13th two previous games and with Chelsea work hard to do that.” his team face a resurgent Man- years with him at Madrid. It will over two seasons in 2002. in the table. It’s diffi cult because it has nine points above them, their margin for Chastened champions Leicester City, chester United at Old Traff ord in be nice to see him. At the end of With each win, Antonio Conte’s side to come as a group. It’s a team sport. But error is thin. three points above the drop zone, will the Premier League on Saturday. the game, we will share a glass of have looked more and more like champi- I think we have shown we can do it in “If you have back-to-back losses then hope to chase away some of the storm Karanka was Mourinho’s assist- wine or beer or coke.” ons-in-waiting, but with half the season spells and we don’t have to be afraid of you have to go and make up for it in dif- clouds overhead when they host a West ant at Real Madrid from 2010 to “I have to say thanks to him and still to go, Chelsea’s players are desper- big teams.” ferent games. Then you can catch up,” Ham United team who are seeking a 2013 and credited the Portu- to his staff so many times.I am ately trying to ignore the hype. Liverpool’s victory took them back to goalkeeper Petr Cech told the Arsenal fourth successive win. guese with helping him take his in the Premier League because I “It’s unbelievable because it’s very second place, six points below Chelsea, website. first steps in management, but learnt a lot with them.” diffi cult to do that in the Premier League, and they will stage the biggest game of “There are still enough games to make Today (2000 GMT): insisted that 14th-placed Middles- Sixth-placed United, who have but the team are very compact on the the New Year weekend when third-place up for our blip and I also think it’s im- Everton v Hull brough would do all they could not lost in the league since Octo- pitch and that’s the right way,” Spanish Manchester City visit Anfi eld on Satur- possible for our opponents to not drop Tomorrow (1500 GMT unless other- to disrupt United’s nine-game ber, are on a four-game winning forward Pedro Rodriguez told the club day. points.” wise stated): unbeaten run. run, and while Karanka has set website. City trail Liverpool by a point, having Palace, held to a 1-1 draw by Watford Chelsea v Stoke, Leicester v West Ham, “This is one of the fixtures I was his sights on victory, he admits “Bournemouth are a good team and it won their last three matches, and man- on Monday in Allardyce’s fi rst game in Liverpool v Man City (1730 GMT), Man Utd looking forward to most. I have a it will not be easy to outwit was very diffi cult.Stoke are also a very ager Pep Guardiola was in attendance charge since succeeding the sacked Alan v Middlesbrough, Burnley v Sunderland, lot to thank Jose Mourinho for,” Mourinho. good team, but we must take it game by to watch Jurgen Klopp’s team overcome Pardew, sit two points above the relega- Southampton v West Brom, Swansea v Karanka told a news conference “I never go to a game aiming for game.” Stoke. tion zone. Bournemouth yesterday. a draw,” he added.”We will go to Scorer of two goals against Bourne- “It’s a diffi cult game for both teams, Manchester United have closed to Sunday: “It will be a special moment for Old Traff ord preparing and try- mouth, Pedro will be suspended for but exciting and the best thing is it’s at within sight of Arsenal and will expect Arsenal v Crystal Palace (1600 GMT), me and for the team, but it is ing to win.” the visit of Stoke, which should see top Anfi eld,” said Klopp, who sparred with to record a fi fth successive victory when Watford v Tottenham (1330 GMT)

SPL Celtic stretch lead to 16 points, Rangers held

AFP Ross County manager Jim McIntyre Sinclair who was picked out in the box match. Celtic showed no signs of easing Glasgow was really pleased with how his side had by a sublime cross from Emilio Iza- up in the second half with Leigh Grif- started. “We had a game plan to play on guirre, but the English winger fl ashed fi ths winding Fox as he lashed a shot the counter attack which we’ve done his header off -target. straight at the ‘keeper before the Scot- eltic stretched their lead at the well when we’ve been here previously,” Jozo Simunovic then misjudged the land striker somehow managed to head top of the Scottish Premiership McIntyre said. fl ight of a high ball to allow Alex Schalk over from just four yards out. as they warmed up for Satur- “I felt we were compact and disci- in behind the Celtic defence. The ball Craig Gordon had a quiet evening in day’s Old Firm clash against plined and we had two great chances on was then worked to Woods via Boyce the Celtic goal but was called into ac- rivalsC Rangers with a comfortable 2-0 the counter attack and we’ve got to put but the Ross County man dragged his tion late on to tip a sizzling strike from win over Ross County. one of them away.” shot wide. Woods round the post and then stop a The visitors had looked dangerous Ross County had put pressure on The sides seemed to be heading to the Andrew Davies header on the line as on the break before Erik Sviatchenko Celtic from the start as they refused to break on level terms before Sviatchenko his side kept their third straight clean fi red Celtic into a 38th minute lead with allow the Hoops to settle on the ball. broke the deadlock with his fi rst goal of sheet. a long range eff ort, Stuart Armstrong The Staggies created the early oppor- the season. The Danish defender col- Glasgow rivals Rangers are the op- adding a second in fi rst half stoppage tunities and Christopher Routis caused lected the ball just inside the County ponents on Saturday and their four- time. panic in the Celtic defence as he fl ashed half and evaded one challenge before match winning run was brought to an The win was Celtic’s 14th in a row as a fi erce strike across the six-yard box fi ring a powerful 25-yard strike into the end by St Johnstone. they remain unbeaten in 23 domestic that was crying out for a touch to divert bottom corner past County ‘keeper Fox The Gers got off to the perfect start in matches since the start of the season. it into the net. who should have done better. Perth when Barrie McKay netted in the Brendan Rodgers’ side will now head Liam Boyce then messed up a chance The Hoops extended their advantage 23rd minute. into the second Old Firm derby of the Celtic fans have a lot to celebrate this season. following a quick breakaway move as in fi rst half stoppage time. Their lead lasted just fi ve minutes, season at Ibrox with a 16-point lead he pulled his low drive wide after being Mikel Lustig slipped a pass to Arm- however, as a slack pass-back from over second-placed Rangers, who were we had to be patient in the game,” the That was my only complaint. Apart teed up perfectly by Martin Woods. strong who twisted one way then an- Rob Kiernan was intercepted by Steven held to a 1-1 draw away to St Johnstone. Celtic manager said. “We need to be from that it was an outstanding team Despite this, Celtic should have tak- other before drilling a fi erce strike past McLean who evaded Wes Foderingham “It was an excellent result for us as better in the last 10 minutes. performance yet again.” en the lead shortly after through Scott Fox to net for the second successive before sliding it into the net. Gulf Times 4 Friday, December 30, 2016 FOOTBALL

OLD FIRM CLASH SPOTLIGHT ‘Fearless’ Jesus tipped for Man Rangers are under City stardom

AFP He’d be the fi rst to do the exer- Sao Paulo cises. He was always determined to be a professional.” The Pequeninos do Meio Am- onsidered a saint by fans biente de Sao Paulo play on the pressure, says of Palmeiras and hailed same pitch as a military prison by Brazilian superstar and specialise in getting boys off Ronaldo as his succes- the dangerous local streets. sor,C teenage sensation Gabriel From the age of 14, Jesus Jesus arrives at Manchester City played in competitive local ama- with a skyrocketing reputation. teur tournaments, learning to City manager Pep Guardiola compete against bigger oppo- sanctioned a £27mn move for nents. Celtic boss Rodgers Jesus, 19, earlier this year, but al- “At times, I would play as lowed him to fi nish the Brazilian many as three or four games,” season with Sao Paulo club Pal- he recalled. “It was too much. Celtic have yet to taste defeat in 23 domestic games under Rodgers as the Scottish meiras. There were times when I would He went out with a bang, in- get cramps.” Premiership prepares for a three-week winter shut-down following the Old Firm clash spiring Palmeiras to a fi rst league It was then that scouts from title in 22 years, winning Olym- Palmeiras spotted the boy who pic gold with Brazil in Rio de Ja- they believed could become the neiro and scoring fi ve goals in his club’s long-awaited saviour. fi rst six international games. His road to trophies, multi- None of it, however, has come million-dollar contracts and as a surprise to Jose Francisco snaking queues of autograph- Mamede, coach at Jesus’s fi rst hunters had begun. club, the Pequeninos do Meio The future star’s upbringing Ambiente de Sao Paulo. in the poor Jardim Peri neigh- “Gabriel came from a very bourhood of northern Sao Paulo poor neighbourhood and that’s could not have been more hum- why he’s not afraid,” says ble. Mamede, 58. His mother, Dona Vera, raised “He will adapt to the food, to him and three brothers alone, the cold in Manchester and eve- working multiple jobs. rything else. In three years he’ll She is proud of her son’s suc- win the Ballon d’Or, because cess, but says she felt compelled Messi will already be getting a to ask for God’s forgiveness when bit old.” she heard the Palmeiras fans Guardiola, who dined with Je- singing: “Glory, glory hallelujah, sus and his new Brazilian team- it’s Gabriel Jesus!” mates Fernando and Fernandin- There is already a lot weighing ho in Manchester in December, on the youngster’s shoulders, as has backed the youngster to shown by the tears that fl owed make a major impact at the Eti- after he scored for Palmeiras had Stadium. against Atletico Mineiro in No- “When the ball is there, it’s a vember. goal,” Guardiola said in August. Just two days earlier he had “He has the sense of goal. So we shone for Brazil against Peru, buy goals.” scoring one goal and setting up Jesus’s explosive emergence another, but he was suff ering has brought to mind the prodi- at his club because he had not gious feats of Neymar and Rob- scored in their previous eight inho, both of whom burst onto games. the scene as teenagers in Sao Now he faces the intense Paulo, albeit at rival club Santos. pressure of the English Premier His precocity was apparent League and must fi nd a place in a from the beginning. City team that already boasts the “From the very fi rst training attacking talents of Sergio Ague- session, we saw he was diff er- ro, Raheem Sterling and Kevin De ent,” says Mamede, whose offi ce Bruyne. is full of souvenirs of the young If his career to date is any- Jesus. thing to go by, he will take it in “He never lacked anything. his stride.

This file photo taken on August 31, 2008 shows Rangers fans celebrating their 4-2 victory over Celtic in their Scottish Premier League football match at Celtic Park, Glasgow, The “Old Firm” derby between the Celtic and Glasgow Rangers, whose 404th edition is scheduled for December 31, 2016 in Glasgow, is one of the most intense in Europe.

AFP about that,” Rodgers said. “It will be a half of the season so irrespective of the “And, of course, I’m delighted with the Glasgow tough game and there’s a huge pressure result we’ll fi nish the game and be happy opportunities that the players have taken obviously on them to get the result at with our work,” Rodgers said. since I’ve come in here to be better and to home. “That’s eight games this month and improve. eltic manager Brendan Rodgers “For us, we’ve played in big games this we’ve won seven and had a draw away to “They just amaze me with their men- says the pressure will be fi rmly season under pressure and dealt well with Man City in the Champions League. tality and they are very much worthy of on Rangers as the Glasgow ri- them and stayed very calm and got the You cannot ask any more of the team. the credit that they’re getting because Cvals prepare to clash in Satur- results. We know it will be a tough game, “We’ll go away, we’ll rest and recover it’s a remarkable feat of concentration, of day’s Old Firm derby at Ibrox. but it’s a game we’ve been looking for- and then we’ll be back even better in hard work, of focus and quality. “They’re The Hoops head into the match on ward to. It fi nishes off a remarkable fi rst the second half of the season. But we’re demonstrating that in every game they New Year’s Eve with a 16-point lead half of the season for us and we aim to go greedy and we want to win every game play and every day they train.” over Rangers and a game in hand follow- there and win.” and that’s the attitude for the weekend.” There was some bad news for Austral- ing their comfortable 2-0 win over Ross Celtic have yet to taste defeat in 23 do- Celtic’s win over Ross County means ian international Tom Rogic as Rodgers County on Wednesday. mestic games under Rodgers as the Scot- the Hoops will end 2016 undefeated do- revealed the Socceroo star would miss the Rodgers’ side thrashed the Gers 5-1 on tish Premiership prepares for a three- mestically at Celtic Park, where they have Old Firm clash through injury. their visit to Celtic Park back in August week winter shut-down following the claimed 20 wins and two draws. The midfi elder suff ered an ankle knock and the former Liverpool boss expects a Old Firm clash. And Rodgers paid tribute to former in the win over Dundee but is expected to tougher test in the red-hot atmosphere With such a massive gap at the top of Hoops boss Ronny Deila and his players return after the winter break. of Ibrox. the table, the Hoops boss claims he is re- for their part in the run. “He won’t make it which is disap- But the Celtic manager says his side laxed about the outcome on Saturday as “I think obviously it’s a great credit to pointing for him as he’s been outstanding have the experience to cope under pres- they fi nish the fi rst half of the season well Ronny and the team before. They were all season but it’s about the collective for sure and insists the Hoops will be aim- on course for a sixth title in a row. here for the fi rst six months of the year us and we’ll be ready,” Rodgers said of the ing for their 15th straight victory in the “I think for us it doesn’t matter what and had that record so they can be proud Australian midfi elder. league. the result is on Saturday. We’ve had a fan- of their work in that part of the season,” “I think probably once we get back af- “It will be a battle; there’s no doubt tastic start to the season in the opening the Celtic manager said. ter the midseason break he’ll be fi ne.” Watch out Messi: Gabriel Jesus of Manchester City

BOTTOMLINE The Old Firm derby — sound, fury and sectarianism

AFP Great Famine of the 1840s. tion to each other. In political terms edge to it. It’s competitive and it’s safe,” Glasgow Rangers became the team of the the clubs are at polar opposites as well: says Brennan. Scottish Protestant working class al- Celtic are associated with socialism and “In the city and in the towns and vil- most by accident. Irish Republicanism, Rangers with con- lages around the city, I don’t enjoy it at nderpinned by ferocious pas- “Within Scottish society there was a servatism and Northern Irish unionism. all.” sion, century-old mistrust feeling there was a need for a club of the The signing of former Celtic player The game has also attracted Scottish and Sectarian confl ict, the traditional Scottish establishment to Mo Johnstone in 1989 brought Rang- government intervention, with the Of- sound and fury of the Old rival Celtic and it took off from there,” ers’ boycott of Catholic players to an fensive Behaviour at Football Act being UFirm derby between Glasgow rivals explains Rangers historian Robert end and the religious tensions between introduced in 2012 following a particu- Celtic and Rangers is unique in modern McElroy. the sides have eased in a more secular larly volatile Old Firm fi xture the previ- football. “It was more a question of timing society. ous year. “The noise and the passion, there’s than anything else.” But the rise of social media, opposing The legislation is aimed at cracking nothing like it,” said late Rangers star The opening of a massive shipyard in views over the Scottish independence down on sectarianism, but both sides Sandy Jardine. “I’ve been fortunate to Govan, just a short walk from Rangers’ referendum and Rangers’ 2012 liquida- of the Old Firm support have united in see derby games all over the world and Ibrox home, by industrial fi rm Harland tion and subsequent four-year hiatus their opposition to it. there is nothing that comes close. A Celtic fan stands in front of a stall at Celtic Park in Glasgow. File photo and Wolff saw an infl ux of workers ar- from the top fl ight have created new In many ways the clubs have been “When you go out of the tunnel, you rive from Belfast in the 1910s. divisions. more allies than rivals off the pitch get hit by this level of noise which far cal, cultural and religious diff erences all thor David Potter told AFP. The company’s infamous ‘Catholics “If there was no such thing as politics due to their monopoly of the wealth in outweighs normal games or even cup playing a part. “It was only really in the 1920s that a need not apply’ policy soon spread to and there was no such thing as religion, Scottish football. fi nals.” But things were not always as in- religious element crept in.” the club their workforce adopted. I think this game would be the same,” Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell Over 50,000 supporters will cram tense. Celtic were founded by a Marist “That changed the character of says Craig Houston from Rangers sup- estimated Rangers’ four-year absence inside Ibrox to see Rangers and Celtic When Celtic were founded in 1888, (Catholic) Brother from Ireland and the Rangers,” says Paul Brennan, editor of porters group Club 1872. cost his club £40mn. clash for the 404th time on Saturday, relations between the two clubs were club’s origins were fi rmly embedded in the Celtic Quick News website. “We would fi nd something else to The lack of strong domestic compe- when the winners of 101 of the 120 cordial, with Rangers supplying the Irish Catholicism. “They specifi cally stopped employ- diff erentiate us.” tition, meanwhile, meant Celtic under- Scottish league titles go head-to-head. opposition for their neighbours’ fi rst Andrew Kerins, known as Brother ing Catholic footballers at that stage, Animosity between the clubs’ sup- performed in Europe. The reason that millions of people game. Walfrid, established Celtic with the which made the rivalry become very porters has been all too frequent and a As Celtic historian Potter admits: around the world will also tune in goes “When the league started, there was intention of feeding the impoverished bitter and ethnic in origin.” number of murders and violent crimes “When Rangers went down a few far beyond the battle for supremacy in a very good relationship between Celtic children of Glasgow’s east end, where It is not just in religion that the clubs’ have been associated with the fi xture. leagues, I honestly think Celtic missed the Scottish Premiership, with politi- and Rangers,” Celtic historian and au- Irish immigrants fl ocked during the identities have been built in opposi- “At the ground, I love it. It has a real them.” Gulf Times Friday, December 30, 2016 5 SPORT

NBA SPOTLIGHT ‘Phenomenal’ Butler lift s Bulls over Nets Golden Warriors AFP ter the veteran guard departed Chicago early in the fourth quarter with a migraine headache. Wade fi nished with 16 immy Butler’s 40 points, and in a post-game points included the interview asked television fi rst buzzer-beating camera crews not to use their game-winner of his bright lights. blow big lead, still career,J but the Chicago Bulls “I had a headache before forward said Wednesday’s the game,” Wade said. last-gasp heroics weren’t his “I took a fall in the second dream scenario. half. I didn’t hit my head, but I “I hope it never comes guess the way my body jerked down to that, to tell you the and reacted kind of triggered truth,” Butler said after the my headache back. I lost a Bulls edged the Brooklyn Nets little vision in my eye. I came beat Raptors 101-99. out on the court, I couldn’t “I just want to win by a see the rim.” couple possessions so there ‘It’s huge. Obviously that game (on Sunday) didn’t go how we wanted it to’ are no nerves running through Wade fi nished with 16 anybody.” points, and in a post-game Nevertheless, he embraced interview asked televi- the moment, draining a 20- sion camera crews not to foot jump shot over Nets for- use their bright lights ward Bojan Bogdanovic to seal the victory. Center Brook Lopez led His 40 points — on 14 of 29 the Nets with 33 points and shooting — matches his sea- Brooklyn led for most of the son high. Butler also pulled fourth quarter. down 11 rebounds for his Brooklyn coach Kenny At- fourth double-double of the kinson defended his decision season. not to double-team Butler on “He was phenomenal, ob- the fi nal possession. viously,” Bulls coach Fred “We were going to play Hoiberg said. him straight up,” Atkinson “He put the team on his said. shoulders. He willed them to “If we were scripting some- the fi nish line. He hit every thing up, that’s the type of one of them. He took the shot (we would like), a highly ball to the middle with ball contested two with a pretty screens, and we let him go to tall guy on him. I thought it work. He made the right play was pretty good defense.” time and time again.” Butler had returned to the After trailing by seven game after rolling his ankle with three minutes remain- with about fi ve minutes left in ing, Chicago stormed home the fourth quarter. to notch their second straight “It hurt for a little bit,” But- win. ler said. Butler scored nine points “It still hurts for a little bit in the fi nal 2:24 as Chicago now. But I wanted to play. I fi nished the game on an 11-2 r knew ‘D-Wade’ was in the un. back, so I had to insert myself The Bulls fi nished without back into the lineup and made Dwyane Wade on the fl oor af- a couple shots.”

Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant hugs guard Stephen Curry after the game against the Toronto Raptors at Oracle Arena. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

AFP 22-4 lead less than fi ve minutes time leading scorer, surpassing to Kristaps Porzingis, who was Clippers 21-10 in the fi rst seven Los Angeles into the contest. Klay Thompson Chris Bosh with the 15th of his fouled while shooting a three- minutes of the fourth quarter to scored 12 of his 21 points in Gold- game-high 29 points. pointer but missed two of three seize control. en State’s 42-point fi rst quarter. DeRozan, in his eighth NBA foul shots with 3.6 seconds Anthony Davis scored 20 he Golden State Warri- Draymond Green scored 14 season, fi nished the night with left. points and Hield added 17 as ors, stung on Christmas points and handed out 10 assists 10,290 career points, 15 more Paul Millsap then made two the Pelicans handed the reeling Day in their NBA Finals for the Warriors, who improved than Bosh. free throws to seal the win over Clippers a fourth straight de- rematch with the Cleve- to 28-5. There were miscues to a Knicks team that played more feat — despite the return of point Tland Cavaliers, took charge early be sure, notably 20 turnovers by Hawks swoop in overtime than half the game without lead- guard Chris Paul after a three- Wednesday in a 121-111 victory the Warriors. Atlanta’s German point guard ing scorer Carmelo Anthony, game absence with a strained over the Toronto Raptors. “It wasn’t pretty, but we got it Dennis Schroder scored 27 who was ejected with 3:08 to hamstring. Kevin Durant posted a dou- done,” Curry said. points, including two clutch free play in the second quarter after a It was also close in Denver, ble-double of 22 points and 17 The Raptors closed to within throws with six seconds left, to swipe to Sefolosha’s face. where Danilo Gallinari banked in rebounds and Stephen Curry 10 points in the third quarter and lift the Hawks to a 102-98 over- New Orleans Pelicans coach a turnaround jump shot with 27 scored 28 points for the Warri- had narrowed the gap to 114-109 time victory over the New York Alvin Gentry was ejected after seconds left to lift the Nuggets to ors, who had squandered a dou- with 3:01 to play on a layup by Knicks. picking up two technical fouls a 105-103 victory over the Min- ble-digit fourth-quarter lead in DeMarre Carroll. The Hawks led by as many as in the fi rst half of his team’s 102- nesota Timberwolves. their 109-108 loss to the Cavs. But Carroll and Terrence Ross six points in the extra session but 98 victory over the Los Angeles “It’s huge,” Curry said of the were both unable to connect on had to battle to the fi nish to put Clippers. RESULTS bounce-back win. “Obviously three-pointers and Curry, fouled the game away. The Pelicans were trailing 45- Golden State 121 Toronto 111 that game (on Sunday) didn’t go after pulling down an off ensive New York trimmed the gap to 39 when Gentry was banished Portland 102 Sacramento 89 how we wanted it to.” rebound, made both free throws 98-97 and had a chance to win from the sideline for arguing a Denver 105 Minnesota 103 He said the 22-9 Raptors, sec- with 2:04 remaining to rebuild with 16.2 seconds remaining, but foul called on rookie guard Bud- San Antonio 119 Phoenix 98 ond to the Cavaliers in the Eastern the Warriors’ lead. Knicks guard Derrick Rose, pres- dy Hield. Chicago 101 Brooklyn 99 Conference, were a “good test” — While the Raptors saw a sev- sured by Atlanta’s Thabo Sefolo- New Orleans were down 76- New Orleans 102 LA Clippers 98 and the Warriors looked deter- en-game road winning streak sha, lost control of the ball. 68 late in the third quarter be- Atlanta 102 NY Knicks 98 (OT) mined to pass it from the start. end, they also saw a piece of The Knicks had to foul and fore closing the period with a Milwaukee 119 Detroit 94 Brooklyn Nets center Justin Hamilton (R) fouls Chicago Bulls Golden State made nine of franchise history made as DeMar Schroder calmly made two free 9-0 run. Washington 111 Indiana 105 forward Jimmy Butler during the second half at the United their fi rst 10 shots en route to a DeRozan became the club’s all- throws. The Knicks inbounded The Pelicans out-scored the Charlotte 120 Orlando 101 Centre. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

FOCUS Aldridge leads short-handed Spurs over Suns

AFP bench to score 12 points apiece night. “We have to be a defensive Los Angeles for the Spurs, who beat the Suns team all four quarters and keep by 15 points earlier this month our focus. Turnovers hurt us, but but found themselves trailing with a young team, turnovers are ith San Antonio’s 64-58 at halftime. going to happen.” leading scorer The Suns got off to an explo- The Spurs out-scored Phoe- Kawhi Leonard sive start, connecting on 68.8 % nix 61-34 in the second half, sidelined by illness, from the fl oor in the fi rst quarter their focus sharpening as the WLaMarcus Aldridge stepped up but they still trailed 30-27 after Suns’ waned. with 27 points on Wednesday to the period as nine turnovers led “The whole game for us was lead the Spurs to a 119-98 NBA to 13 points for San Antonio. picking up the intensity in de- victory over the Phoenix Suns. A 9-2 scoring run in the sec- fensive pressure in the third and Leonard missed his fi rst game ond quarter saw the Suns take fourth quarters,” Popovich said. of the season with a stomach bug. the lead, but the Spurs got the Meanwhile Anthony Davis “He just couldn’t keep anything young Phoenix squad’s measure scored 20 points and rookie down today, so he stayed home,” in after the interval. guard Buddy Hield added 17, coach Gregg Popovich said. “We did a lot better in the sec- including back-to-back three- In his absence, Aldridge hit 10 ond half,” Parker said. “Our en- pointers, to lift the New Orleans of his 12 shots from the fl oor, fol- ergy was better and we tried to Pelicans to a 102-98 victory over lowing up a 33-point perform- create turnovers and play more the Los Angeles Clippers. ance in a win over Chicago on physical on the defensive end.” The Pelicans did it without Sunday with another outstand- The Suns, led by reserve guard head coach Alvin Gentry, who ing eff ort. “When LaMarcus plays TJ Warren’s 23 points, coughed was ejected after picking up two aggressive like that we are a better up 22 turnovers — the most for a technical fouls in the fi rst half. team — he’s in attack mode, and San Antonio opponent this year. Assistant Darren Erman took he’s looking for his teammates and “We played a great fi rst half over with 4:06 left in the half tonight Phoenix couldn’t guard — we played aggressive on the and the Pelicans trailing 45-39. him,” said veteran Spurs point ball and got some defl ections The Clippers got 13 points and guard Tony Parker, who matched on defense,” Suns coach Earl 25 rebounds by center DeAn- his season high with 20 points. Watson said. “Things reversed in dre Jordan, who had a double- Pau Gasol added 16 points and the second half. We are a young double in the fi rst quarter. Aus- 10 rebounds and Manu Gino- group trying to establish a cul- tin Rivers added 22 points, and Phoenix Suns centre Tyson Chandler shoots the ball past San Antonio Spurs power forward LaMarcus Aldridge (No 12) and Pau Gasol during bili and David Lee came off the ture and that can’t be done over- Chris Paul scored 21 points. the first half at AT&T Center. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Gulf Times 6 Friday, December 30, 2016 SPORT

NHL Blackhawks, Panarin agree to contract extension The Blackhawks have answered one of the biggest questions about their future - whether it will include prolific winger Artemi Panarin, who Vancouver Canucks was due to be a restricted free agent after this season. The answer is yes – through the 2018-19 season. The Hawks and Panarin have agreed to a contract extension worth $6 million per season for the next two years, Panarin’s agent Tom hold off LA Kings 2-1 Lynn confirmed to the Chicago Tribune on Wednesday. In a bit of give-and-take, ‘Their winning goal was definitely lucky. It hit a few things and then bounced off the ice and then was tipped in’ Panarin, 25, did not push for a long-term deal for more mon- ey, which another team could By Kevin Baxter have given him on the open Los Angeles Times market, but agreed to a bridge deal that should keep him in Chicago for a while. Then he he Los Angeles Kings may be in line for an even big- returned Wednesday ger payday – and the Hawks from a four-day Christ- will not be able to trade his mas break, their long- rights because he will be an Test vacation of the season’s fi rst unrestricted free agent at the half. Yet, given the way they end of his new deal. But keep- stumbled through the start of ing Panarin was paramount the fi rst two periods, it appeared for a team that has Stanley as if they forgot to leave a wake- Cup aspirations through the up call. decade. Panarin has thrived And the Vancouver Canucks with the Hawks since coming took full advantage, with Loui over from the KHL before Eriksson’s goal less than three last season thanks in part to minutes after the opening fa- playing on a line with Artem ceoff and Henrik Sedin’s score Anisimov and Patrick Kane. 23 seconds into the second pe- Panarin has 15 goals and 22 as- riod proving enough to get them sists this season and won the past the sleepwalking Kings, Calder Trophy as rookie of the 2-1. year last season with 30 goals Tanner Pearson scored for the and 47 assists. Lynn told the Kings late in the third period, Chicago Tribune that Panarin rolling the puck up the stick of was willing to take a discount Vancouver forward Alexandre to stay with the Hawks but did Burrows and into the net to add not want to take a discount on a little suspense to the game’s a long-term deal, especially fi nal 3 minutes 17 seconds. It when he is two years away didn’t change the result, how- from negotiating for no move- ever. ment clauses in his deal at 27. “I thought we deserved a lit- “We both, in a friendly way, tle better,” said defenseman recognized a long-term deal Drew Doughty, whose slap shot wasn’t feasible (and) not only from the left side in the fi nal moneywise,” Lynn said. “He’s minute just missed the far post. two years away from getting “But you’ve got to play well for no movement clauses. ... that 60 minutes in this league in or- wasn’t feasible to give up unre- der to win games. stricted years on a discounted “I was pretty frustrated with deal. At the same time neither our start.” side was into a one-year deal, It was a start that included just putting off the same con- three penalties in less than nine versation (until next year).” minutes. And Eriksson made In two years, Lynn said the the Kings pay for the fi rst one, landscape in the NHL likely scoring on a power play 2:43 af- would be much diff erent and ter the opening faceoff . the sides will re-visit whether With Jake Muzzin in the they still are a good fit. penalty box for high-sticking, “In the end, this was the key Eriksson found himself alone that unlocked the door, to do behind the goal line on the right a two-year deal and to get to side. Bo Horvat, trapped along a $6 million threshold,” Lynn the boards, managed to slip the said. “It was enough for Artemi puck to Eriksson between the to take a haircut and stay and legs of Kings defenseman Derek enough for the Blackhawks Forbort and the Vancouver to keep doing what they’re winger did the rest, skating in doing.” The negotiations on on goal and pushing a shot past this deal had been ongoing Peter Budaj at the far post. Vancouver Canucks forward Jack Skille (9) and goaltender Ryan Miller defend against Los Angeles Kings forward Tanner Pearson during the third period at Rogers Arena. since the summer. Lynn told It was the fi rst power-play PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Panarin that the winger could score the Kings have given up in get more money if he went to 27 tries over 11 games. And it got a two-hop pass toward the net then was tipped in.” none from Kopitar, Brown or But you get down two, you are fi rst in six weeks. “You’ve to ex- arbitration or the open market. worse from there, with Sedin that Henrik Sedin was able to On the other end, Sutter’s Gaborik. playing a diff erent game then.” pect that going on the road. And But Lynn said: “He said I want doubling Vancouver’s lead 23 defl ect under Budaj’s pads. move to put Anze Kopitar with That’s a drought that could Add it all up and it was too tonight they came out ready to to stay with the Blackhawks if seconds into the second period. “It was two on two down the Dustin Brown and Marian Ga- continue since Tyler Toff oli, much to overcome against a go.” we can make it work.” The chal- Forbort, again trying to con- ice,” Kings Coach Darryl Sut- borik on the fi rst line fi zzled. whose eight goals are tied for Canucks team that has more lenge in the immediate future trol the puck near the boards ter said. “They shouldn’t get a Although the Kings outshot second on the team, was put on home victories over the Kings RESULTS for the Hawks is how they will at the right faceoff circle, got shot.” Vancouver, 31-8, over the last injured reserve Wednesday. (63) than against any other NHL Vancouver 2 Los Angeles 1 fit below the salary cap next tied up this time by Daniel Se- Added Doughty: “Their win- two periods, Pearson was the “We don’t have a lot of scor- team. St. Louis 6 Philadelphia 3 season and who might have din. When the puck came off his ning goal was defi nitely pretty only one to fi nd the back of the ing in our lineup. Especially “Every team prides them- Tampa Bay 4 Montreal 3 (OT) to be traded to accommodate stick it rolled straight to rookie lucky. It hit a few things and net, leaving the team with only with Tyler out,” Sutter said. selves at being good at home,” Toronto 3 Florida 2 (SO) Panarin’s new deal. defender Troy Stecher, who sent then bounced off the ice and 10 goals in its last six games, “You get down one, you’re fi ne. said Pearson, whose goal was his Pittsburgh 3 Carolina 2

TENNIS Former world number one Ivanovic retires

Reuters She returned to the top fi ve in 2014 Belgrade and reached the French Open semi- fi nals in 2015, but slipped out of the leading 60 this year after losing to ormer French Open champi- little-known Czech Denisa Allertova on Ana Ivanovic announced in the US Open fi rst round, her fi nal her retirement from tennis match on the WTA tour. at the age of 29 on Wednes- “I played so many memora- dayF because she no longer feels fi t ble matches. But staying at those enough to compete at the highest heights in any professional sport level. requires top physical form and it’s Ivanovic became the fi rst Serbian well-known that I have been ham- woman to win a grand slam tourna- pered by injuries,” Ivanovic said. ment when she beat Russian Dinara “I can only play if I perform up Safi na in the 2008 French Open fi nal, to my own high standards. I can no following in the footsteps of compa- longer do that so it’s time to move triot Novak Djokovic who clinched on.” the Australian Open title the same Striking a happy fi gure as she an- year. nounced her retirement with a smile “There is no other way to say it. I in a live address to her fans, Ivanovic have decided to retire from profes- also revealed her future plans. sional tennis. It has been a diffi cult “Don’t be sad, be optimistic decision but there is so much to cel- alongside me. My love and my great- ebrate,” Belgrade-born Ivanovic said est thank you to all of you,” she said. on Facebook. Ivanovic, the world number 63, mar- “I began dreaming about tennis ried former Germany soccer inter- when I was fi ve. My dear parents national Bastian Schweinsteiger this backed me all the way and by the year. time I was the world number one and “I am so excited about what comes won Roland Garros in 2008, I have next. I will become an ambassador of seen the heights I never dreamt of sport and healthy life and will also achieving,” she added. explore opportunities in business, Her French Open victory cata- beauty and fashion, among other pulted Ivanovic to the summit of the endeavours,” she said. WTA tour rankings but she only oc- “Beyond that, who knows. All I cupied top spot for a few weeks and can say is that I have lived my dreams dropped to 22nd at the end of 2009 and really hope to have helped others after a dramatic loss of form. do so as well.” This file photo taken on June 7, 2008 shows Ana Ivanovic kissing her trophy after winning French Open in Paris. (AFP) Gulf Times Friday, December 30, 2016 7 CRICKET

FIRST TEST No competition with Parthiv, says Saha Kolkata: India wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha yesterday Rabada double gives brushed aside talk of com- petition with Parthiv Patel for a place in the Test team after the senior stumper impressed with the bat in the three matches he played against England. “There is no competition South Africa sight of win with him (Parthiv). I like to bank on my chances. I don’t go into any competition,” Saha said. “Parthiv has played Sri Lanka were 240 for five at the close of play, after being set to make an improbable 488 to win well and the team has won so it’s good. Now when the AFP selection will happen the Port Elizabeth picture will be clear.” “I don’t think about it. Parthiv is also trying to agiso Rabada made two crucial comeback into the fold, so breakthroughs as South Africa whatever selectors will feel chipped away at a stubborn Sri right is right. I have never Lankan batting order on the regretted anything,” added Kfourth day of the fi rst Test at St George’s Saha, who was ruled out for Park yesterday. three Tests after picking up Sri Lanka were 240 for fi ve at the an injury in the second Test close of play, with their last two recog- in Visakhapatnam. nised batsmen at the crease, after being Patel scored 195 runs in set to make an improbable 488 to win. three matches at an average Rabada twice dismissed set batsmen, on of 65.00 with two half-centu- both occasions with the second ball of a ries. Saha, on the other hand, new spell. managed only 49 from his He trapped Kaushal Silva leg before two outings at an unimpres- wicket for 48 with his second ball af- sive average of 12.25. ter tea. Then, late on a hot afternoon, Asked to assess the Aus- he broke a 75-run partnership between tralian team which is slated captain Angelo Mathews and Kusal to tour India in February, Mendis. A fast, short delivery bowled Saha said, “It can be easier from around the wicket induced an in- than England since they do voluntary ramp shot by Mendis, who not have a good record in was caught behind by wicketkeeper Asia lately. There are few Quinton de Kock for 58. In contrast to new Aussie players who have the fi rst innings, when they were bowled not played in India. It won’t out for 205, with several batsmen play- be easy for them. At home, ing poor strokes in seam-friendly con- whoever plays are always fa- ditions, South Africa had to work hard vourites. There is our recent for their wickets on a pitch which had form also.” lost most of its earlier life. Saha spent about 20 It took a moment of hesitation to minutes at the nets, main break an opening stand of 87 between practising his batting. “It feels Dimuth Karunaratne and Silva, who de- good to be batting again. I fi ed the South African bowlers for 145 don’t have a problem. I prac- minutes before Karunaratne was run tised in NCA (national cricket out for 43 in the 33rd over. Silva pushed academy) also but did not bat a ball from left-arm spinner Keshav there. This is the first time I Maharaj into the covers and set off for batted after the second Test,” a run. Saha said. Both batsmen hesitated momentar- ily in mid-pitch, JP Duminy picked up and released the ball quickly to wicket- keeper De Kock, who broke the stumps with a diving Karunaratne just short of the crease. Two overs later Kusal Perera attempted an extravagant cut shot and South African bowler Kagiso Rabada (centre) celebrates with captain Faf du Plessis (left) after dismissing Sri Lankan batsman Kusal Mendis as other teammates look on, was caught behind, also off Maharaj. during the fourth day of the first Test at the Port Elizabeth cricket ground yesterday. (AFP) Silva and Mendis saw Sri Lanka through to tea before Rabada’s fi rst saw out the day, with De Silva surviv- off 86 deliveries. The pair put on 129, Total (6 wkts dec, 90.5 overs) 406 A. Mathews not out 58 breakthrough was followed by a fi ne ing on review after being given out leg a record sixth wicket partnership for Fall of wickets: 1-116 (Elgar), 2-221 (Amla), D. Chandimal c Rabada b Maharaj 8 partnership between Mathews and before to Kyle Abbott, bowling with the South Africa against Sri Lanka. It was 3-244 (Cook), 4-267 (Duminy), 5-277 (Ba- D. de Silva not out 9 Mendis, with the 21-year-old Mendis second new ball, two overs from the also the third century stand of an in- vuma), 6-406 (De Kock) Extras (b4, lb3, nb1, w2) 10 playing some impressive strokes, hit- close. nings during which South Africa scored Bowling: Lakmal 18-2-64-1, Pradeep Total (5 wkts, 83 overs) 240 ting nine fours in a 90-ball innings be- Earlier, South African captain Faf du at an average of 4.47 runs an over. 14-0-65-1 (4nb, 1w), Mathews 4-0-10-0, Fall of wickets: 1-87 (Karunaratne), 2-93 fore falling to Rabada. Plessis declared with his team on 406 Chameera 15-0-85-1 (2nb, 2w), Herath 24.5- (Perera), 3-118 (Silva), 4-193 (Mendis), 5-225 Maharaj, who bowled 22 overs un- for six in their second innings. He and SCOREBOARD 1-84-1, De Silva 15-0-91-2 (Chandimal) changed, had Dinesh Chandimal caught De Kock added 55 runs in 10.5 overs yes- SOUTH AFRICA I INNINGS 286 Bowling: Philander 17-5-38-0, Abbott at mid-on, with the batsman charging terday before De Kock missed a sweep SRI LANKA I INNINGS 205 SRI LANKA II INNINGS 15-3-31-0 (1w), Rabada 19-3-72-2 (1nb, 1w), down the wicket. He had been dropped against left-arm spinner Rangana Her- South Africa II innings (overnight 351-5) D. Karunaratne run out (Duminy) 43 Maharaj 29-7-84-2, Duminy 3-0-8-0 by Stephen Cook at mid-off trying a ath and was leg before wicket. F. du Plessis not out 67 K. Silva lbw b Rabada 48 Match situation: Sri Lanka need 248 to similar shot fi ve runs earlier. De Kock made 69 off 86 balls and Du Q. de Kock lbw b Herath 69 K. Perera c De Kock b Maharaj 6 win with five wickets remaining in the Mathews and Dhananjaya de Silva Plessis was unbeaten on 67, also made Extras (b5, lb2, nb10, w3) 20 K. Mendis c De Kock b Rabada 58 second innings

SECOND ODI Broom hundred sets up New Zealand series win

AFP SCOREBOARD Nelson, New Zealand NEW ZEALAND INNINGS M. Guptill lbw Mashrafe 0 T. Latham lbw Shakib 22 eil Broom’s maiden century and the K. Williamson c Shakib b Taskin 14 self-belief of Kane Williamson gave N. Broom not out 109 New Zealand a 67-run victory over J. Neesham st Nurul b Mosaddek 28 Bangladesh to take the second one- C. Munro b Mashrafe 3 Nday international and the series in Nelson yes- L. Ronchi c Tanveer b Taskin 35 terday. Bangladesh suff ered a dramatic melt- M. Santner c Mashrafe b Subashis 9 down when they were cruising towards what T. Southee c Nurul b Shakib 3 should have been a comfortable victory after L. Ferguson c Nurul b Mashrafe 4 Broom’s unbeaten 109 was the only signifi cant T. Boult run out (Nurul/Taskin) 12 score in New Zealand’s 251. Extras (b1, lb7, w4) 12 The tourists reached 104 for one in the 23rd Total (all out, 50 overs) 251 over and were all out for 184 by the 43rd, losing Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Guptill), 2-37 (Williamson), 3-47 their last nine wickets for 80 runs. (Latham), 4-98 (Neesham), 5-107 (Munro), 6-171 The win, following New Zealand’s 77-run (Ronchi), 7-198 (Santner), 8-214 (Southee), 9-228 victory in the fi rst match, gives the home side an (Ferguson), 10-251 (Boult) unbeatable 2-0 lead with one match remaining, Bowling: Mashrafe 10-1-49-3 (2w), Subashis 10-1-45-1 also in Nelson, tomorrow. With New Zealand’s (1w), Taskin 10-1-45-2 (1w), Shakib 10-0-45-2, Tanveer frontline bowlers struggled for consistency at 8-0-47-0, Mosaddek 2-0-12-1 the start of the Bangladesh innings, skipper and part-time spinner Williamson put himself into BANGLADESH INNINGS the attack as the seventh bowler and claimed Tamim Iqbal c Latham b Southee 16 three for 22 with his looping off -breaks. Imrul Kayes c Broom b Southee 59 Williamson described it as a “satisfying” out- Sabbir Rahman run out (Williamson/Ronchi) 38 come given the pressure New Zealand were un- Mahmudullah b Ferguson 1 der. “They bowled outstandingly on that surface Shakib Al Hasan c Broom b Williamson 7 and gave us nothing for a long period of time. Mosaddek Hossain c Neesham b Williamson 3 We certainly had to suck it up and Broomy did Tanveer Haider st Ronchi b Williamson 2 that and played the match-winning knock.” Nurul Hasan c Ronchi b Boult 24 Williamson added his bowling eff ort was “a Mashrafe Mortaza c Williamson b Boult 17 little bit fortunate. I was encouraged to bring New Zealand’s Neil Broom sweeps during the second ODI against Bangladesh at the Saxton Oval in Nelson yesterday. (AFP) Taskin Ahmed st Ronchi b Santner 0 myself on and it was nice that it came off .” Subashis Roy not out 1 For Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza board ticking over at a constant rate. lah for one with a yorker. Williamson then en- and Tanveer took a catch to remove New Zea- Extras (b1, lb4, w10, nb1) 16 there was no escaping that he had been let down But after Imrul brought the 100 up with a huge tered the attack to remove Shakib Al Hasan (7), land’s wicket-keeper Luke Ronchi for 35. Total (all out; 42.4 overs) 184 by his batsmen who he said should have chased six off left-arm seamer Jimmy Neesham, Sabbir Mosaddek Hossain (3) and Tanveer Haider (2). Ronchi (35) was the second best performing Fall of wickets: 1-30 (Tamim Iqbal, 2-105 (Sabbir down their target. “The bowlers did a very good was run out in bizarre fashion as he turned back Debutant Nurul Hasan, standing in for in- New Zealand batsman and featured in a 64-run Rahman), 3-112 (Mahmudullah), 4-128 (Shakib Al job. But I’m very disappointed with the batters. going for a single and both batsmen raced for the jured wicketkeeper Mushfi qur Rahim, dragged stand with Broom for the sixth wicket. New Hasan), 5-134 (Mosaddek Hossain), 6-136 (Imrul One for 100 and then collapsing is obviously non-striker’s end. the innings out with 24 before being the last Zealand were sent into bat after Mushrafe won Kayes), 7-141 (Tanveer), 8-162 (Mashrafe), 9-175 disappointing,” he said. Imrul believed he lost the race and headed for wicket to fall. the toss and decided to make early use of heavily (Taskin), 10-184 (Nurul) Williamson’s triple strike was the break- the dressing room only to be recalled by the um- Bangladesh, in an unorthodox reaction to los- overcast conditions. Bowling: Boult 8.4-0-26-2 (3w), Southee 9-1-33-2 through New Zealand needed after Imrul Kayes, pires when television replays showed Sabbir had ing the fi rst ODI, injected three debutants into By the time the clouds dispersed the New (2w), Munro 2-0-12-0, Ferguson 8-0-53-1 (2w, 1nb), Tamim Iqbal and Sabbir Rahman had given grounded his bat second. their side. Along with Nurul, who capped his Zealand top order, with the exception of Broom, Santner 8-1-20-1 (1w), Neesham 2-0-13-0 (1w), Wil- Bangladesh a solid start to their chase. It was the start of the Bangladesh downfall game with the smart stumping of all-rounder were already out and the tail struggled to pick up liamson 5-0-22-3 (1w) Agressive opener Tamim produced a quick 16 with Lockie Ferguson, who dropped a sitter from Neesham and two sharp catches, speedster Su- the pace. Mashrafe Mortaza led the Bangladesh Toss: Bangladesh and Imrul (59) and Sabbir (38) kept the score- Imrul on 45, bowling new batsman Mahmudul- bashis Roy took the wicket of Mitchell Santner bowling fi gures with three for 49. Result: New Zealand won by 67 runs Friday, December 30, 2016 GULF TIMES SPORT

CRICKET FOCUS Smith century gives Lyon’s Test spot in a spin

AFP “I think it’s possible that we Melbourne could see another spinner in Aussies narrow lead Sydney,” Smith said. “It’s been spinning quite a ustralia captain Steve lot there in Shield cricket this Smith reached his fourth Test hundred of the year before a storm lashed the MCG Smith yesterday criti- season so there’s a good chance cised Nathan Lyon’s there’d be a spinner added. “(The bowling consistency, fast bowlers) have done some butA has left questions about the bowling and it’s obviously been spinner’s place in the Test team a pretty big summer for them as up to the selectors. well. Six Tests matches is always Lyon, Australia’s most suc- a lot.” cessful off -spinner with 220 wickets, has taken just nine GILLESPIE IS AUSTRALIA'S wickets at 66 runs this season. T20 ASSISTANT COACH The Pakistan lower order were Former Test fast bowler Jason particularly severe on him in the Gillespie was yesterday appoint- fi rst innings of the second Mel- ed as Australia assistant coach bourne Test carting him for one for the three Twenty20 inter- for 115 off 23 overs. Pakistan No.8 nationals against Sri Lanka in Sohail Khan clubbed Lyon for February. Cricket Australia said four massive sixes as the spin- Gillespie will work with Justin ner conceded 46 runs from just Langer, who was confi rmed as six overs. With the second Test coach for the series earlier this looking like it is headed for a month. draw on today’s fi nal day, atten- They will step in for head tion has already switched to next coach Darren Lehmann and his week’s series decider in Sydney assistant David Saker, who will with Australia currently leading be with the Test squad for the 1-0. When asked by reporters if tour of India over the same peri- Lyon was a guaranteed selection od. Apart from his work with the for the Sydney Test, Smith re- Adelaide Strikers in the T20 Big plied: “I’m not sure, that’s up to Bash League, Gillespie spent fi ve the selectors. successful years as head coach of “He obviously hasn’t bowled English county Yorkshire. at his best in this game. It’s al- “I’m just buzzing to get this ways diffi cult bowling to right- role. It really is an exciting op- handers. They’ve only got two portunity and I’m humbled to be (left-handers) in their line-up. thought of by Cricket Australia We’re just looking for Nathan to in this regard,” Gillespie said. be a little more consistent in the “With some players likely to way he bowls.” be away in India it really will be The SCG pitch traditionally a shop window for players from takes spin and 28 of 37 wickets the BBL to showcase their skills in a Sheffi eld Shield game were and to show the selectors and the taken by spinners there last Australian public what they can month. Left-armed spinner Ste- do.” ve O’Keefe is fi t again after play- Gillespie took 259 wickets in ing in the fi rst Test in Sri Lanka in 71 Tests as well as 142 wickets July and looms as the most likely in 97 ODIs. The T20s between spin inclusion for the Sydney Australia and Sri Lanka will take Test. While Smith wouldn’t say place at the Melbourne Cricket who could come into the squad, Ground on February 17, Geelong he indicated the spin stocks will on February 19 and the Adelaide get a boost. Oval on February 22.

Australian batsman Steve Smith plays a shot en route to his 17th century during the second Test against Pakistan in Melbourne yesterday. (AFP)

AFP result, the wicket hasn’t broken up much to the pitch of the ball and left the wicket tion for concussion. Melbourne and it’s playing well.” shaking his head. Paceman Riaz continued to have prob- Smith passed 1,000 runs in a calendar Wicketkeeper Wade again missed out lems bowling no-balls. He overstepped year for the third time in a row during his — this time he was caught in the slips for 12 times in his 27 overs. “We need to cut kipper Steve Smith scored his 17th knock, taking his 2016 total to 1,040 at just nine after a slash outside off -stump at down these no-balls, it’s not acceptable,” Test century to give Australia a 22- 67.60 with his patient 100 not out coming Sohail Khan. Wade, like Maddinson, has Pakistan bowling coach Azhar Mahmood run lead over Pakistan as rain again off 168 balls with nine boundaries. Usman struggled for runs since his recall for last said. disrupted play in the second Test Khawaja was dismissed three runs short month’s third Test against South Africa inS Melbourne yesterday. of his century early in the day, the second and has scores of 4, 7, 1 not out and now 9 SCOREBOARD Smith reached his fourth Test hundred time this season that the Pakistan-born in his four innings since. Pakistan I innings 443-9 decl of the year before a storm lashed the Mel- batsman has been dismissed on 97. In contrast, Peter Handscomb claimed Australia I innings (278-2 overnight) bourne Cricket Ground just before tea and Khawaja had added just two runs to his his third half-century in three Tests to M. Renshaw b Yasir Shah 10 forced the rest of the fourth day’s play to overnight 95 off 12 balls when he edged push along the Australian scoring. He was D. Warner c Sarfraz b Riaz 144 be abandoned. Smith was unbeaten on Wahab Riaz to wicketkeeper Sarfraz dropped off a sharp caught-and-bowled U. Khawaja c Sarfraz b Riaz 97 100 with Mitchell Starc not out seven in Ahmed in the day’s fi fth over. Khawaja chance by Mohammad Amir on 51, but S. Smith not out 100 Australia’s 465 for six. It is unlikely there left the ground with his head bowed. Kha- three runs later he found Sami Aslam at P. Handscomb c Sami b Sohail 54 will be a result in the Test with just today’s waja also missed out on a century against point off Sohail. N. Maddinson b Yasir Shah 22 fi nal day to play. South Africa in the second innings of last Handscomb, playing on his home pitch, M. Wade c Shafiq b Sohail 9 The Australians were hoping to build a month’s fi rst Test in Perth. The Austral- added 92 runs with Smith off 141 balls. M. Starc not out 7 100-plus run lead to try and put the tour- ians lost the wickets of under-pressure Starc slammed Shah for a mighty six — Extras (b1, lb8, nb13) 22 ists under pressure on the fi nal day in the pair Nic Maddinson and Matthew Wade measured at 103 metres — high into the Total (6 wickets, 113.5 overs) 465 weather-disrupted Test. “We were plan- in the middle session. stands to get off the mark and will resume Fall of wickets: 1-46 (Renshaw), 2-244 (Warn- ning to play a little more positively this Maddinson, fi ghting to nail down his on Friday with Smith. er), 3-282 (Khawaja), 4-374 (Handscomb), afternoon and try and get as many runs as Test spot, failed again, deceived by wrist- Azhar Ali, who scored an unbeaten 205 5-433 (Maddinson), 6-454 (Wade) we could, but the rain hasn’t helped us,” spinner Yasir Shah’s fl ight and was bowled in Pakistan’s 443 for nine in the fi rst in- To bat: J. Hazlewood, N. Lyon, J. Bird. Smith said. off -stump for 22 off 55 balls. nings declaration, was fi elding at short leg Bowling: Amir 27-5-74-0 (1nb), Sohail 23.5- “So now it’s about summing it up in Under pressure after scores of 0, 1 and 4 when he received a fearsome blow on the 7-86-2, Y. Shah 34-2-150-2, Riaz 27-3-135-2 the morning and seeing where we can go. in his three Test innings, Maddinson ad- helmet off Wade’s full-blooded pull shot (12nb), Azhar 2-0-11-0 It’s obviously going to be diffi cult to get a vanced down the wicket but failed to get and was taken from the fi eld for observa- Play abandoned (rain) 4.50pm local Australia’s Nathan Lyon has taken just nine wickets this season. (AFP)

AHMED ABDULRAHMAN AL-MUFTAH NEW QATAR BASKETBALL FEDERATION PRESIDENT

The new president of the Qatar Basketball Federation, Ahmed Abdulrahman al-Muftah (fourth from left), poses with outgoing president Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman al-Thani and other off icials after the body’s elections held yesterday. The other board members are Abdulrahman Mohamed al-Hitmi, Mohamed Rashed Subaie, Ibrahim Obaid Siddiqi And Salah Atiq.