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Monday, January 13, 2020 TENNIS Jumada I 18, 1441 AH Williams ends title GULF TIMES drought to win in Auckland SPORT Page 7

MOTORSPORT in mourning as rider Goncalves dies in crash Spaniard extends his lead over Qatari defending champion Nasser al-Attiyah to ten minutes

AFP Wadi ad-Dawasir,

ortuguese motorbike rider Paulo Goncalves has died after a crash in the Dakar Rally yester- Pday, the 40-year-old becoming the gruelling motorsport mara- thon’s 25th fatality. Goncalves suff ered the fatal accident after 276 kilometres of the seventh stage from to Wadi ad-Dawasir. “The organisers received an alert at 10:08 (0708 GMT) and dispatched a medical helicopter that reached the biker at 10:16 and found him unconscious af- ter going into cardiac arrest,” a statement on the rally’s offi cial website reported. “Following resuscitation ef- forts in situ, the competitor was taken by helicopter to Layla Hos- pital, where he was sadly pro- nounced dead,” it added. Dakar director David Cast- era revealed it was Australian defending bike champion who was the fi rst to discov- er the stricken Goncalves lying Toyota Gazoo Racing’s Nasser al-Attiyah and his co-driver in action on the sand. during stage 7 of the 2020 Dakar Rally yesterday. (Reuters) Goncalves was competing in his 13th edition of the Dakar. He commented: “This sport is ex- driver Peterhansel in third. made his debut in 2006 when it treme....mechanical sports can Sainz, a two-time former was staged in Africa, and took never be 100 percent safe.” world rally champion, is in a second to in 2015 in Dakar Rally director David Castera (centre) calls for a minute’s silence in tribute to Portuguese rider Paulo Goncalves at the bivouac in Wadi Today’s motorcycle action on strong position to add to his . ad-Dawasir, Saudi Arabia, yesterday. (AFP) the eighth stage in and around Dakar wins in 2010 and 2018. “Paulo was someone who had Wadi ad-Dawasir was cancelled With seven stages completed been around for a long time, who Goncalves was placed 46th in era dwelt on the risks faced by 13 Dakar titles, refl ected: “I al- statement said Goncalves had “in order to give the riders time and fi ve day’s racing to go he we all knew, who was a feature of the overall bike standings after riders. ways felt I was playing with fi re died “attempting to accomplish to mourn their friend,” said or- enjoys a comfortable 10 minute the rally,” Castera said. Friday’s sixth stage. “We know that bikes are dan- on a bike, I ended my bike career the dream of winning one of the ganisers. cushion over last year’s winner “So this is a very diffi cult time.” gerous. very young and saw friends die in most dangerous and toughest On a sombre day in the desert al-Attiyah, with Peterhansel a The Indian-backed Hero Mot- ‘KNOT IN YOUR STOMACH’ “You set off in the morning, front of me.” rallies in the world”. Sainz tightened his grip on the further nine minutes adrift. osports rider only made it to this His death cast a pall over the sev- you have a knot in your stomach The Frenchman added: “When He described him as “a highly overall car standings with his American re- year’s fi rst Dakar staged in Saudi enth stage action won by Carlos sometimes because you don’t we passed (the scene of the ac- distinguished” sporting ambas- third stage win of this year’s edi- tained his overall bike lead fi nish- Arabia after recovering from a Sainz in a Mini. have any protection, you have cident) I had a really bad feeling. sador for while Portu- tion. ing fi fth on the day behind Kevin ruptured spleen in a crash in his The last Dakar competitor to nothing. When you see all the medical guese MotoGP rider Miguel Ol- The 57-year-old Spaniard in a Benavides. native Portugal in December. be killed was Polish rider Michal “They all know that, these rid- offi cers busy, a survival blanket iveira paid tribute to Goncalves’ Mini completed the longest spe- was initially Following surgery he said be- Hernik in 2015 in . ers,” said Castera, a veteran of fi ve over the rider, you know some- “courage and bravery”. cial between Riyadh and Wadi marked down as the day’s winner fore the rally got underway: “It’s With 20 of the 25 Dakar deaths Dakars on a motorbike. thing terrible has happened.” Two-time former Formula ad-Dawasir over two minutes but Benavides was awarded back a victory for me to be here at the since the inaugural edition in Stephane Peterhansel, who Portuguese President Marcelo One champion Fernando Alon- clear of Toyota rival Nasser Saleh the time he had spent attending start.” 1979 made up of bike riders Cast- counts six bike wins amongst his Rebelo de Sousa in an offi cial so, making his Dakar debut, al-Attiyah with his fellow Mini Goncalves.

SPOTLIGHT Aguero makes history as Man City hit Villa for six

AFP Premier League history with 177 Pepe Reina was in the stands Aguero then thumped home Birmingham, goals. ahead of his loan move from AC a third, although Nyland could City boss Pep Guardiola could Milan being completed and Or- have got a stronger hand to the aff ord the luxury of recalling Je- jan Nyland did little to further his Argentine’s eff ort. ergio Aguero became the sus and Aguero among six chang- case of keeping his place ahead of All that was missing from a Premier League’s top es to the side that also outclassed the ex-Liverpool stopper. complete City performance was scoring foreign player Manchester United in midweek a moment of inspiration from with a hat-trick as Man- to put one foot in the fi nal of the MAHREZ ON THE MARK Kevin De Bruyne and the Belgian chesterS City thrashed Aston Villa League Cup. Nyland was beaten at his near duly delivered with a wonder- 6-1 to move ahead of Leicester Villa could be their opponents post as Mahrez was allowed to ful curling cross to set the fourth into second in the table. at Wembley on March 1 as they cut onto his favoured left foot to on a plate for Jesus in fi rst-half It may be too late to salvage held Leicester 1-1 in the fi rst leg open the fl oodgates on 18 min- stoppage time. City’s defence of the Premier of their semi-fi nal on Wednes- utes. City did not let up after the League title as they remain 14 day, but on this evidence they The Algerian’s old Leicester break and could have made it points behind runaway leaders would be powerless to stop City teammate Danny Drinkwater many more than six as David Liverpool, who also have a game lifting the trophy for a third was making his Villa debut after Silva picked out Aguero to calmly in hand, but led by Aguero the straight season. troubled spells at Chelsea and slot home his record-breaking champions showed they will not In stark contrast to the attack- Burnley since leaving the Foxes. goal. give up the chase. ing options available to Guardio- Drinkwater was playing The Argentine’s 12th Premier An injury-hit Villa were blown la, Dean Smith did not have a fi t against City for the third time League hat-trick arrived eight away by three goals in 10 fi rst- striker to choose from with Wes- in his last three Premier League minutes from time as he dem- half minutes as Riyad Mahrez ley ruled out for the remainder of appearances with three diff erent onstrated his array of fi nishes by struck twice before Aguero’s the season, so midfi elders Anwar clubs. this time blasting his past the blast into the top corner from El Ghazi and Jack Grealish were His lack of match practice helpless Nyland. long range. forced to deputise as front men. was exposed for City’s second as El Ghazi scored from the pen- Gabriel Jesus added a fourth Villa have also been hit by in- Drinkwater was caught in pos- alty spot in stoppage time, but it before half-time and Aguero juries at the other end of the fi eld session inside his own box by Je- was little consolation for Villa, added two more in the second with goalkeeper Tom Heaton also sus and the ball broke kindly for who dropped into the relega- Manchester City’s Sergio Aguero (left) scores a goal to complete his hat-trick during the Premier League half to surpass Thierry Henry as out for the rest of the campaign. Mahrez to drill home his ninth tion zone after Watford’s win at match against Aston Villa in Birmingham, United Kingdom, yesterday. (Reuters) the top scoring overseas player in Former Spanish international goal of the season. Bournemouth earlier in the day. Gulf Times 2 Monday, January 13, 2020 FOOTBALL

EPL Champions-elect Liverpool in a hurry to end 30 years of hurt ‘The moment when we have enough points that nobody can catch us anymore, then we start talking about it’

AFP City boss) will not give up. I will do Liverpool’s German manager Jurgen Klopp waves at London the same. So far, so really good. the end of the English Premier League match against However, it seems a matter of Tottenham Hotspur in London on Saturday. (AFP) when, not if, he adds the Premier 30-year wait to win a top League to two Bundesliga crowns fl ight title has been too won at Borussia Dortmund. And long for Liverpool and Ju- the quality of opposition Klopp is rgen Klopp’s men are in a wary of only strengthens his side’s rushA to end that drought as soon as claim to be among the best in the possible with the best ever start to a history of English football. season in Europe’s top fi ve leagues. The Premier League provided Saturday’s 1-0 win at Spurs in a all four fi nalists for the Champi- rematch of last season’s Champi- ons and Europa League last sea- ons League fi nal was the Reds 20th son and all seven English sides in in 21 Premier League games this European competition have made season with a 1-1 draw at Manches- the knockout stages once again. ter United in October their only City rewrote the record books with stumble. That stunning run is even their 100-point season in 2017/18, more impressive when extended but Liverpool are on track to better over the past year. A 2-1 defeat to even many of those landmarks. Manchester City on January 3 2019 “When Klopp came in it was - that ultimately cost them the title end-to-end and exciting, they despite amassing 97 points - was were an exciting team to watch, the last time Liverpool lost in the but now they are the best team to league. watch,” former Liverpool defender Since then they have collected Jamie Carragher told Sky Sports. 104 points with 33 wins and fi ve “We knew he was a top manager draws, whilst also winning the but I didn’t think this development Champions League, UEFA Super of the team over several years was Cup and Club World Cup. possible. To get to this stage, they “The problem is you don’t get are the best team in the world.” anything for best starts apart from After so many years when ending numbers,” insisted Klopp. “The the three-decade wait for the title only thing we are interested in is consumed Liverpool, now it may what we can get in the summer.” not even be the limit of their ambi- At Liverpool’s current pace, tions. spring will barely have sprung by They have reached the Cham- the time the title is wrapped up. pions League fi nal for the past two They enjoy a 16-point lead over seasons and are the side to beat second-placed Leicester and have when the competition returns next a game in hand, although City can month. Even when Klopp fi elded a cut the gap to 14 should they win at youthful side with only one fi rst- Aston Villa later. team regular for a Merseyside derby “It is not done yet because this against Everton in the FA Cup last league is so strong, because we weekend, his kids came good in a face so many strong opponents,” 1-0 win. The German will back his added Klopp. “The moment when reserves to take care of Bristol City we have enough points that nobody or Shrewsbury in the next round can catch us anymore, then we and the closer they get to Wembley, start talking about it.” another shot at history may tempt Klopp said he had been unaware Klopp into fi elding a stronger side. of the new points record until one City completed English foot- of his staff told him. ball’s fi rst ever domestic treble last “It doesn’t feel somehow spe- season, but only Alex Ferguson’s cial. We know about it and it is vintage Manchester United side of special but I can’t feel it,” he said. 1998/99 have claimed the Premier “When someone gives you a trophy League, Champions League and FA it is done, but until then you need Cup in the same season. to fi ght. Match that achievement and the “It is only the start. We need to case for this Liverpool campaign continue because our contenders to be the best English football has are so strong. Pep (Guardiola, Man seen will be unarguable.

SPOTLIGHT Xavi decides against taking Barca job immediately: source AFP the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Madrid Arabia. “I respect Barcelona, I respect Valverde and I respect my club and I’m doing my job rnesto Valverde will take here,” Xavi said on Saturday. Barcelona training today “I’m focusing on Al Sadd. after Xavi told the club Yes Abidal is my friend, I met he would not be accept- him many times,” he continued. ingE the job of coach immediately, “They were here to talk to me AFP Sport has learned. and we discussed many things. Xavi, who is currently in And they were here to check on charge of Qatari team Al Sadd, Ousmane Dembele. held talks with Barca’s sporting “I cannot inform you too director Eric Abidal and chief much, just that I met Abidal and executive Oscar Grau on Friday he is my friend.” and Saturday. But Xavi added: “I cannot hide But a source has told AFP that it’s my dream to coach Bar- Sport that Grau and Abidal were celona, I said it many times.” returning to Barcelona, after French international and Bar- SETBACK Xavi said he would not be giving celona forward Dembele has his agreement straight away. been in for treatment on a Xavi could yet resume nego- Al Sadd coach Xavi reacts during the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-final hamstring injury. The 39-year- tiations in the coming days or, against Monterrey at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha on old Xavi, who won the World Barca striker Suarez out for more likely, in the summer once December 14, 2019. (Reuters) Cup with in 2010, came the season has fi nished. through Barcelona’s academy In the meantime, Valverde TOUGH DECISION wrote El Pais yesterday. “If he and played 855 senior games for four months aft er knee surgery remains in charge and the plan His situation is complicated by accepts, he is put under the wing the club. After an emotional is that he will take training as the fact he would like to lead of a weak leadership, with elec- farewell, he joined Al Sadd as a Reuters club’s second leading marks- usual on Monday morning. Yet Al Sadd in the Qatar Cup fi nal, tions due in 2021. But if he says player in 2015 before being ap- Barcelona man behind Lionel Messi. it remains to be seen how he re- which will be played on January no, he may be criticised for re- pointed coach last July. Barca have no natural re- sponds, with the current Barca 17. It would also be a daunting fusing to return home.” Asked about talks between placement for Suarez at cen- coach likely to have been unim- task to join Barcelona mid-sea- Xavi is also said to want to Barca and Xavi, Al Sadd’s sports arcelona striker Luis tre-forward, and for- pressed by the club’s indiscreet son. The team are level on points show respect to Valverde, who director Mohamed Ghulam al- Suarez is set to miss ward Antoine Griezmann may pursuit of Xavi. in the league with Real Madrid has overseen Barcelona winning Balushi told the Qatar-based the majority of the have to play in the role unless Abidal and Grau met Xavi on and face a tough last-16 tie in the two La Liga titles in his two sea- BeIN broadcaster: “I will not rest of the season after the team decide to sign a striker Friday in Qatar and then again Champions League next month sons in charge. deny that. There are negotia- undergoingB knee surgery, the before the transfer window on Saturday night following Al against Napoli. But Champions League col- tions with Xavi and everyone is Spanish champions said yes- closes on February 1. Sadd’s Qatar Cup semi-fi nal win There is also the club’s po- lapses against Roma and Liv- talking about them... but I can terday in a huge blow to their The Catalans are top of over Al Rayyan. litical situation to consider, with erpool have not been forgotten say that Xavi so far is at Al Sadd. hopes of winning the domestic La Liga at the halfway point The suggestion on Saturday Xavi believed to be key to the and poor performances in recent “The fi nal decision is in the title and Champions League. of the season, locked on 40 had been that Xavi would make hopes of presidential candidate weeks have prompted fears of a hands of Al Sadd’s management, A club statement said Suarez, out of action for about four points with second-placed a decision as early as Sunday but Victor Font, ahead of the club repeat. in the hands of the manager and 32, had an operation to treat an months. The Uruguayan is the Real Madrid. They face Napoli the club’s iconic former mid- elections due next year. Barca were beaten 3-2 by the hands of Barcelona’s man- injury to the lateral meniscus third top scorer in La Liga with in the last 16 of the Champions fi elder wants more time. “It’s a diffi cult decision,” Atletico Madrid on Thursday in agement.” in his right knee and would be 11 goals this season and the League. Gulf Times Monday, January 13, 2020 3 FOOTBALL

EPL FOCUS Qatar, Saudi play out goalless draw in AFC Watford climb out U-23 Championship

AFC and tense aff air that was domi- Bangkok nated by pockets of action in midfi eld. The game fi nally burst into audi Arabia drew 0-0 life on 39 minutes when Ab- relegation zone with with Qatar in Group B of dulrahman Ghareeb’s ferocious the AFC U-23 Champi- drive from 18 yards was superbly onship yesterday to leave blocked by defender Qatar Mo- bothS sides fi rmly in contention hamed Ayash. to reach the competition’s quar- By way of contrast to what ter-fi nals. had gone before, the second half With one game each still to began brightly with fi rst Saudi play, the result sees Saudi Ara- Arabia’s Khalid Dubaysh un- win at Bournemouth bia move to four points follow- leashing a shot that fi zzed nar- ing their impressive defeat of rowly wide of the target and then ‘We’ve found a collective way of working together to get more of what we want; performances on Matchday One, with Al Hamdan having a close-range Qatar – in the wake of their draw header repelled by goalkeeper and results. We showed resilience, game understanding and ability as well at times’ with Syria – two points adrift of Mohamed al-Yami. their regional rivals. Saudi Ara- Saudi Arabia continued to bia complete their group stage press their opponents, and it was fi xtures on Wednesday when to be they who would spurn the they face Syria, while Qatar will encounter’s best opportunity, tackle Japan on the same day. Abdulelah Alamri failing to beat On a warm and humid evening al-Yami from a tight angle in the in the Thai capital, Saudi Arabia 67th minute. were boosted by the inclusion Two minutes later, Abdullah of striker Abdullah al-Hamdan al-Ahrak fl ashed a shot across who was named in his country’s the face of the Saudi goal, before starting 11 after recovering from al-Hamdan lifted an eff ort over an ankle injury picked up against the bar when well placed. Japan. With defences dominating, Following a cautious start at neither side was able to fashion a the Thammasat Stadium, there further opportunity, with Saudi were tackles aplenty as both Arabia fi nishing the match argu- sides refused to give an inch, an ably the happier of the two come approach that resulted in a tight the full-time whistle.

Qatar and Saudi Arabia players in action during their Group ‘B’ match at the AFC U-23 Championship yesterday.

Watford manager Nigel Pearson (right) and defender Nathaniel Chalobah celebrates their win against AFC Bournemouth in Bournemouth, Britain, yesterday. (Reuters)

Reuters half. Bournemouth off ered little mands on the players and the ing their Achilles heel. and Pereyra’s fi ne fi nish round- Bournemouth by way of a response and substi- players have accepted those de- ed off a great day for Watford. tute Roberto Pereyra completed mands.” CARELESS PASSING Since beating Manchester the rout in stoppage time. While Watford, who won only They were often guilty of care- United on November 2, Bourne- atford moved out The win, Watford’s fourth one of their opening 17 league less passing as they tried to mouth have taken four points of the relegation in the six games since Pearson games and were six points play out from defence and from their last 11 matches and zone as their stun- took charge with them bottom adrift at the bottom heading were lucky not to be punished unless Howe can stop the rot ning revival under of the table, lifted them to 17th into Christmas, are on the up, early on when Gerard Deulofeu they are heading for relegation. Wnew manager Nigel Pearson place, ahead of Aston Villa who Bournemouth’s hopes of a sixth forced a smart save from keeper “The manager always has to continued with a 3-0 victory at play Manchester City later. successive season of top-fl ight Mark Travers, making his fi rst take responsibility when things south coast strugglers Bourne- Pearson, who inspired football are sinking. Premier League start. aren’t going well,” Howe said. mouth yesterday. Leicester’s escape from relega- Eddie Howe’s side looked Bournemouth did not learn “Instilling confi dence back to “We’ve found a collective way tion in 2014-15, has collected short on confi dence as they their lesson and when Travers the players is my job.” of working together to get more 13 points from his six matches slipped to their third successive played a loose pass out in the “The fi rst goal was a big shift, of what we want; performances at the helm, fi ve more than his defeat without scoring a goal. 42nd minute, Watford stole the up until then it was two quite and results. We showed resil- predecessors Javi Gracia and They are second bottom with ball and Ismaila Sarr’s cross fell even teams,” Howe told Sky ience, game understanding and Quique Sanchez Flores, both 20 points from 22 games having to Doucoure to fi nish well. Sports. ability as well at times,” said sacked this season, managed been as high as seventh in early Sarr was involved again for “We conceded and the sec- Pearson. between them. “He has stripped November. Watford’s second in the 65th ond half was a lot more diffi cult; Abdoulaye Doucoure’s goal it back to basics,” Watford cap- Howe has won plaudits for minute when his cross was di- we dipped, they rose with the shortly before halftime gave tain Deeney said. the passing style Bournemouth verted to Deeney who thumped confi dence. We are not look- Watford the lead and Troy “I don’t want to be too sim- have used to punch above their a fi rst-time shot past Travers. ing free-scoring and when you Deeney smashed in their sec- plistic because that doesn’t do weight in the top fl ight, but Deeney could have added to concede a goal it seems a long ond midway through the second him enough credit. He puts de- there are signs that it is becom- his tally as Bournemouth wilted way back.” Syria defeated Japan 2-1 in the second Group ‘B’ match of the day.

SERIE A Inter go clear at the top despite being held by Atalanta Reuters might turn a blind eye to some Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasp- Milan issues, but the fact remains I erini was not happy with the de- pray we don’t have any players cision after the game. late penalty save by missing, otherwise there’s no “I don’t understand why VAR Inter Milan’s Samir cover,” Conte told DAZN. didn’t call it,” he said. Handanovic secured “Atalanta have been work- “The game is over now, but a point for the Serie A ing with the same coach for four these things are ugly to see. This leadersA against Atalanta in a 1-1 years, they brought in the players type of error should not be al- draw at San Siro yesterday as suited to that style of football. lowed in the age of VAR. It’s in- they moved one point clear of “We’ve just been together for comprehensible.” Juventus. six months, so being 11 points Atalanta pushed for an equal- Lautaro Martinez had fi red clear of them in the table is im- iser after the break as substitute Antonio Conte’s side in front af- pressive.” Ruslan Malinovskyi’s shot came ter four minutes but Robin Gos- back off the post just moments ens levelled for the visitors with FINE START after his introduction in the 53rd 15 minutes remaining. Inter started with intent as minute. The visitors’ pressure Atalanta had a golden chance Romelu Lukaku fi red a shot paid off though when a defl ected to snatch all three points from against the post inside a minute Josip Ilicic shot was headed into the penalty spot with two min- and they were soon ahead as the path of Gosens, who directed utes of regulation time remain- Martinez exchanged passes with a shot home at full stretch at the ing, but Handanovic dived to the Belgian before rifl ing in a back post. Inter Milan’s Samir Handanovic saves a penalty from Atalanta’s Luis Muriel during their Serie A match on Saturday. (Reuters) save Luis Muriel’s spot kick. low shot.Atalanta were furious Alessandro Bastoni gifted Inter are top of the table on when Rafael Toloi appeared to be Gasperini’s side the chance to Sampdoria beat Brescia to boost survival bid 46 points from 19 games at the pulled down by Martinez inside grab a late win when he bundled midway stage of the season, but the box as he tried to tap the ball over Malinovskyi in the area but Sampdoria came from behind to record their from Karol Linetty and Jakub Jankto before points, while a disappointing display from second-placed champions Juve home from close range, but the Handanovic guessed correctly biggest win of the season and move five the break. Fabio Quagliarella extended the Brescia leaves them second-bottom on 14 can overtake them by beating AS referee ignored the appeals and to palm away substitute Muriel’s points clear of the relegation zone with a home side’s advantage from the penalty spot points. Giuseppe Iachini earned his first win Roma away on Sunday. there was no Video Assistant spot kick. The save continued the resounding 5-1 victory over Brescia in Serie A with 21 minutes remaining, before substitute as Fiorentina coach in his second game in Atalanta remain in fi fth place Referee (VAR) intervention. Slovenian’s excellent record from yesterday. Jhon Chancellor headed the visi- Gianluca Caprari headed in a fourth and charge after a late German Pezzella header on 35 points, level with fourth- Replays suggested Martinez penalties - he has saved 24 of the tors in front after just 12 minutes, but Claudio Quagliarella’s injury time lob completed the clinched a 1-0 win over bottom club SPAL to placed Roma. “Looking at the had intentionally grabbed the 70 spot kicks he has faced in Serie Ranieri’s side responded through strikes rout. Sampdoria are in 16th place with 19 lift the 14th-placed hosts up to 21 points. table, seeing us up there, we defender’s leg to trip him, and A, a 30 percent success rate. Gulf Times 4 Monday, January 13, 2020 CRICKET

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT decline playing Test series Buttler sorry for in Pakistan

AFP possible in a short period. Lat- Dhaka er, if the situation improves, we can play the Test matches. We are going to communicate angladesh yesterday the same thing to Pakistan outburst; questions decided to stay fi rm in Cricket Board,” he said. their decision to just According to the ICC’s Fu- play three Twenty20 ture Tour Programme, Bang- Binternationals in Pakistan later ladesh are scheduled to play this month, dismissing a Paki- three T20 internationals and stani proposal to take part in a two Tests in Pakistan in Janu- full Test series. ary-February. Bangladesh Cricket Board The BCB had earlier made a use of stump mic president Nazmul Hassan said similar proposal to play T20s the recent tension in the Mid- in Pakistan, but the PCB had ‘I fully understand that as role models we have a duty to behave in a certain way’ dle East between Iran and the rejected their off er. United States was the main The PCB wants Bangladesh reason behind the decision as to play Test matches if Bang- the government had given the ladesh are to make the series board permission to send the short as the two Tests are also team only for a short period. part of the ICC Test Cham- “The current state in the pionship. The BCB president Middle East is defi nitely dif- said he will be fl ying to Du- ferent than other times. So bai today to discuss with ICC considering escalating tension chairman Shashank Manohar in that particular region, they about the possible implica- (the government) have told tions of skipping the Test se- us to keep the tour as short as ries against Pakistan. possible,” Hassan told report- Test cricket returned to Pa- ers in Dhaka after a meeting of kistan in December for the the BCB board. fi rst time since 2009 when “They (government author- the country hosted Sri Lan- ities) have told us to play the ka for two matches, held in three Twenty20s as quickly as Rawalpindi and Karachi.

Rohit, Shami back in ’s T20 squad for NZ tour Indian selectors yesterday for the Sri Lanka series, recalled explosive batsman which India won 2-0, but all- Rohit Sharma to their rounder Hardik Pandya was Twenty20 squad for the five- not included as he continues match series on their tour his recovery after having of starting on lower back surgery in January 24. October. “Vijay Shankar has Vice-captain Rohit, rested been included in the India for the home series against ‘A’ squad for New Zealand Sri Lanka, comes into the since Pandya’s rehabilitation 16-member squad in place process is taking longer than of wicketkeeper-batsman expected,” the BCCI added. Sanju Samson, the Board of T20 SQUAD: Virat Kohli Control for Cricket in India (captain), Rohit Sharma, (BCCI) said in a statement. Lokesh Rahul, Shikhar Rishabh Pant will don the Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Man- gloves in the month-long ish Pandey, Rishabh Pant tour in which the visitors (wicketkeeper), Shivam will also play three one-day Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuz- internationals (ODIs) and vendra Chahal, Washington two Test matches. Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, ’s Vernon Philander (right) plays a shot as England’s Jos Buttler looks on during the second Test at the Newlands stadium in Cape Town on January 7, 2020. (AFP) Pace bowler Mohamed Mohammed Shami, Nav- Shami also makes a deep Saini, Ravindra Jadeja, AFP way,” said Buttler as England started their bit what goes on,” said Buttler. “I also like Buttler said that although the fi rst two comeback after being rested Shardul Thakur. Reuters Port Elizabeth preparations for the third Test starting at (the argument) that what goes on the fi eld Tests had been fi ercely contested, they St George’s Park on Thursday. stays on the fi eld and isn’t heard necessar- had been conducted in a good spirit. “I’d like to apologise. I understand ily by viewers at home. It’s up for debate.” He felt England would take some mo- Warne, Ponting to play ngland wicketkeeper Jos Buttler that’s not the way to behave so I’ll take the England were criticised for being “too mentum into the third Test after their T20 bushfi re match yesterday apologised for the lan- slap on the wrist and move on.” quiet” during a Test series defeat in New performance in Cape Town, which was guage that landed him with a fi ne He ascribed his behaviour to “heat of Zealand towards the end of last year but dominated by a century by Dom Sibley Former Australian cricketing and unpredictable fires during the second Test against the moment and a bit of redness”. Buttler said there had been no conscious and the all-round eff orts of man of the greats Ricky Ponting and scorched more than 10.3mn SouthE Africa in Cape Town. Asked his opinion on stump micro- eff ort to lift the team’s aggression in South match Ben Stokes. Shane Warne will temporarily hectares (25.5mn acres), Buttler was fi ned 15 % of his match fee phones staying switched on during play, Africa in a series which is locked at 1-1 “Everyone just rides off the back of Ben come out of retirement to an area roughly the size of and given one demerit point by the Inter- Buttler said he believed there were argu- with two matches to play. Stokes,” said Buttler. “He’s pretty super- play in a charity Twenty20 . Current national national Cricket Council for an expletive- ments both for and against. “Not at all,” said Buttler. “I think ac- human at the moment and he generates a match next month as coach Justin Langer will laden outburst against South Africa’s Ver- “In Test cricket there’s a lot of high tions speak as loud as words.” lot of confi dence for everyone.” sports organisations and also play in the game on non Philander. emotions at times and things being said He said the energy created by young Buttler said England would miss the athletes seek ways to raise February 8 along with former The incident was captured on the that don’t necessarily mean anything but players in the team contributed to putting injured James Anderson, “the best seam funds for bushfire relief. captain Michael Clarke and stump microphone and widely distrib- for viewers at home come across very pressure on South Africa during England’s bowler we’ve ever had” but fast bowlers Since October, thousands vice captain Adam Gilchrist, uted on social media. poorly,” he said. “We understand that it 189-run win in Cape Town. Jofra Archer and Mark Wood had both re- of Australians have faced Cricket (CA) said in “I fully understand that as role mod- adds to the viewership experience, hav- “There’s more than way of doing it and covered from injury and were bowling at repeat evacuations as huge a statement yesterday. els we have a duty to behave in a certain ing stump mics and being able to hear a it doesn’t have to be vocal.” high pace.

PREVIEW COMMENT Coach ‘camped out’ at Wankhede to Competition between Dhawan, Rahul healthy: understand dew, says Richardson batting coach Rathour IANS IANS Mumbai Mumbai

ustralia pacer Kane Ri- ndia batting coach Vikram chardson said yester- Rathour feels the com- day that coach Andrew petition between Shikhar McDonald “camped Dhawan and KL Rahul for out”A at Mumbai’s Wankhede Ithe opening slot is a healthy Stadium on Saturday night so one, ahead of their three- as to understand what time dew match ODI series against Aus- came in. tralia starting tomorrow. Australia are preparing to play “It’s a good dilemma to India in a three-match ODI se- have. Rohit is an obvious ries, the fi rst of which will be choice of course. Both of them played in Mumbai tomorrow. (Shikhar and Rahul) are play- “Andrew McDonald camped ing well. Shikhar has done well out here last night to try and see in one-dayers and Rahul is in of confi dence. So as a batter what time the dew came in. Who great form. So we’ll deal with and bowler, especially when knows, everyone is guessing. I it when we have to,” Rathour you are playing against a team think everyone is prepared,” Ri- told reporters yesterday. like Australia, who are one of chardson told reporters. While Rohit Sharma is a the better teams in the world, The seamer said that Australia certainty, it will be between performances do make a dif- will practice with wet balls on Rahul and Dhawan with the ference. It gives you a lot of Sunday so as to get accustomed latter making a comeback from confi dence.” to the conditions which he says injury in the T20 series against “We’ll take it as any other is not too diff erent from what Sri Lanka and scoring runs. series, and playing against one they fi nd back home. Rahul has been in great form in of the better sides in the world, “We’re going to train today the last few months. we are looking to do well as a with some wet balls. We’ll just “There are still a couple of team, looking to perform and wait and see on game day. It’s Members of Australia team seen during a training session at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai yesterday. (AFP) days to go. The management win if possible,” added the bat- nothing new, we have dew back will sit down and make the ting coach. home as well,” he said. two matches. The victory was However, Richardson insists tain Aaron Finch) has said no and after what happened last choice,” Rathour said. After the Mumbai ODI, the Australia had last played an part of their revival post the 2018 that India are the favourite. “I team has ever won here back to year, they will be ready for it. On the relevance of an ODI second game will be played in ODI series in India in March ball tampering scandal, and this think the home team is always back. It’s going to be so hard,” Confi dence is up but the home series in a T20 World Cup year, Rajkot on January 17 and the 2019. They won the fi ve-match time they have Steve Smith and favourite. I think on the back of Richardson said. “India in India team is always favourite. We are Rathour said, “It’s a diff erent third in Bengaluru on January series 3-2 despite losing the fi rst David Warner back in the squad. last year, Finchy (Australia cap- are always the biggest challenge the underdogs,” he added. format and cricket is a game 19. Gulf Times Monday, January 13, 2020 5 SPORT

NBA NHL Lindholm, Flames down Oilers to Giannis bounces take Pacifi c lead

Reuters mark. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins Los Angeles quickly tied the game off the rush when he fi nished the play with a top-corner shot. lias Lindholm scored Then it was Connor Mc- back as Bucks whip twice, while Johnny David’s turn to light the lamp. Gaudreau collected McDavid used his blazing one goal and one assist speed to create a breakaway ‘I HAVE A BIGGER PICTURE asE the host Calgary Flames and roofed a shot over Talbot’s won their fi fth straight game shoulder at the 9:06 mark for AND BIGGER GOALS, BUT with a 4-3 victory over the his 25th goal of the season. Edmonton Oilers on Saturday However, Gaudreau’s goal IT’S PRETTY COOL’ night. with 40.8 seconds remain- Trail Blazers Goaltender Cam Talbot ing in the opening frame tied made 29 saves — 15 in the third the count 2-2. After gaining period — for the Flames, who the puck in the neutral zone, moved atop the Pacifi c Divi- Gaudreau weaved to the top sion. of the right circle and wristed Lindholm scored his sec- a screened shot home for his ond of the night — and 20th 13th goal of the season. of the season — 39 seconds The rivals traded second- into the third period, a power- period goals, too. Nugent- play goal while Zack Kassian Hopkins netted his second of served a double minor for his the night when he grabbed the reaction to a hit by Matthew puck after Gaudreau fell and Tkachuk. lost possession, and then had With Tkachuk setting the Nugent-Hopkins’ shot defl ect screen, Lindholm found the off him 84 seconds into the mark from the top of the right middle frame for his 12th goal circle for the game-winning of the season. goal to cap an entertaining af- But Dillon Dube again tied fair. the game. The hosts took ad- Amidst a tidal wave of emo- vantage of a turnover, and he tion, the clubs traded goals chipped a loose puck into the 63 seconds apart early in the cage at 11:34 of the second pe- clash. The Flames shot out of riod. the blocks and were rewarded Mikko Koskinen stopped when Lindholm gained the 28 shots for the Oilers, who puck at the left circle, spun saw their three-game winning and ripped it home at the 4:04 streak snapped.

RESULTS Vancouver 6-3 Buff alo Carolina 2-0 Los Angeles Boston 3-2 NY Islanders Montreal 2-1 Ottawa Tampa Bay 1-0 Philadelphia New Jersey 5-1 Washington St. Louis 5-2 NY Rangers Chicago 4-2 Anaheim Calgary 4-3 Edmonton Columbus 3-0 Las Vegas San Jose 2-1 Dallas

Milwaukee Bucks power forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (right) is fouled by Portland Trail Blazers power forward Carmelo Anthony while driving to the basket during the first half at Moda Center. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

AFP Sacramento Kings. record his 20,000th career point, becom- granted,” Westbrook said. “Growing up Los Angeles Damian Lillard scored 26 points and CJ ing the 45th player in NBA history to reach in L.A. and being able to see him progress McCollum added 20 as the Trail Blazers the milestone. over the years to me is just a blessing to see lost for the eighth time in 10 games. “It’s a great accomplishment obvious- as his friend and I’m truly happy for him.” iannis Antetokounmpo re- Carmelo Anthony registered 19 points ly,” he said. “I have a bigger picture and The Rockets beat Minnesota despite bounded from his season-worst and 11 rebounds, and Kent Bazemore add- bigger goals, but it’s pretty cool.” playing without center Clint Capela (heel) performance to tally 32 points ed 10 points. Harden recorded 11 turnovers but the and losing forward P.J. Tucker after he and 17 rebounds as the Milwau- Portland played without Hassan Wh- Rockets were able to more than makeup suff ered a bruise early in the first quarter. Gkee Bucks routed the Portland Trail Blaz- iteside who missed the contest with the for his ball-handling missteps. Isaiah Hartenstein, starting for Capela, ers 122-101 on Saturday. fl u. He and Russell Westbrook — who post- also recorded a double-double of 17 points Milwaukee, who are on pace to win 70 Donte DiVincenzo came off the bench ed 30 points, six rebounds and 10 assists and 15 rebounds while adding fi ve blocked games, won for the eighth time in the last to score 10 points for Milwaukee, who — went a combined 19-of-23 from the shots. nine games to improve to 35-6 on the sea- made 14 of 38 attempts from beyond the free-throw line for the Rockets, who have Houston’s Ben McLemore, who re- son. arc. won 21 of their past 25 meetings with the placed Danuel House in the starting Khris Middleton added 30 points and Elsewhere, James Harden paced the Timberwolves. lineup, and Eric Gordon combined for 30 Eric Bledsoe scored 29 for the Bucks who Houston attack with a deft shooting Harden entered the game 10 points points. are hoping to surpass the franchise-best touch, fi nishing with 32 points, 12 re- away from the milestone and reached it in Josh Okogie paced seven Timberwolves 66-16 mark set by the 1970-71 squad led bounds and eight assists Saturday as the fi tting fashion, on a 3-pointer. in double fi gures with 16 points. Rookie by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Rockets routed the visiting Minnesota Westbrook said he has a lot of respect Jarrett Culver added 15 points, eight re- Antetokounmpo’s double double on Timberwolves 139-109. for Harden. bounds and fi ve assists. Elias Lindholm (right) of the Calgary Flames celebrates after Saturday came one night after he scored Harden also nailed a stepback 3-pointer “To be able to do that on a very, very The Rockets shot 51.6 % overall and fi n- scoring the game-winning goal against the Edmonton Oilers on a season-low 13 points in a win over the with 6:30 left in the second quarter to high level is something we don’t take for ished 18 of 45 on 3-pointers. Saturday in Calgary, Canada. (AFP)

NFL Titans shock Ravens, 49ers sink Vikings in playoff s AFP 10 playoff victory. When they weren’t strike to Davis. The Ravens set a record San Francisco handing the ball off to Henry, the Titans this season with 3,296 rushing yards but were taking advantage of Lamar Jack- the Titans beat Baltimore at their own son’s turnovers in front of 71,000 fans game, rushing for 217 yards compared errick Henry rushed for 195 at M&T Bank Stadium. to only 185 for Baltimore. yards and completed a daz- “I had a lot of mistakes — three turn- zling touchdown pass to Corey overs. That shouldn’t happen,” Jackson NINERS RIP VIKINGS Davis as the Tennessee Titans said. “But they came out to play, and we The host 49ers advanced to a home reachedD deep into their bag of tricks to started off slow. We just got to do better NFC championship showdown against shock the top-seeded Baltimore Ravens next time.” either the Seattle Seahawks or Green 28-12 in the NFL playoff s. Jackson completed 31 of 59 passes Bay Packers, who meet Sunday, with a Henry has carried the Titans on his for 365 yards, one touchdown, the two relentless defensive display to throttle back in the postseason and their star interceptions and a lost fumble. He the Vikings off ense led by quarterback pulled off the trick play of the playoff s rushed for 143 yards on 20 carries. Kirk Cousins. so far on Saturday by connecting on a Jackson’s unheralded counterpart, San Francisco running back Tevin three-yard jump pass with Davis for a quarterback Ryan Tannehill, ran for a Coleman rushed for two touchdowns third-quarter touchdown. touchdown in the third quarter, fi nish- while quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo “Watch us work,” said Henry, who is ing off a short six-play drive with a one- fi nished with 131 passing yards to claim the fi rst player in NFL history with 180 yard scamper to give Tennessee a 28-6 victory in his fi rst career playoff game. or more rushing yards in three consecu- lead. He improved to 3-0 as a playoff Cousins, the hero of last week’s upset tive games. starter. over the New Orleans Saints, was given “We don’t do too much talking. We’re Jackson supplied the magic and force a torrid time, sacked six times by a ram- just going to work and believe in each for the Ravens this season, throwing 36 pant Niners defense. other. That’s our mentality, to come out touchdowns and rushing for a quarter- “I was pumped for the defense,” said here and work. That’s our mindset, fo- back-record 1,206 yards, but he was 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan. cus on business.” unable to solve Tennessee’s defense. “When you see how well the defense The Titans advanced to next week- Henry, 26, rushed for a team playoff is playing it makes it so much easier. I end’s AFC championship game at the record 195 yards, carried 30 times and think our whole team fed off it.” winner of Sunday’s game between Hou- caught two passes against the Ravens Garoppolo marched the 49ers 61 ston and Kansas City. with his longest run being 66 yards. yards in eight plays and found Kendrick Earlier, the San Francisco 49ers halt- With 6:54 left in the third on third- Bourne with a three-yard touchdown ed the Minnesota Vikings’ giant-killing and-goal from the three, Henry took the pass. But the Vikings equalized when run, also moving to within one win of direct snap and paused behind the line Cousins found Stefon Diggs for a 41- Tennessee Titans’ Derrick Henry (right) carries the ball as Baltimore Ravens’ Chuck Clark (left) chases in the third quarter a Super Bowl berth with a ruthless 27- before jumping high to throw a perfect yard touchdown pass. of divisional round playoff game at M&T Bank Stadium. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Gulf Times 6 Monday, January 13, 2020 SPORT

GOLF SPOTLIGHT ‘Red hot’ Grace unleashes birdie Ormsby weathers blitz to win South African Open

AFP Lowry surge to win Johannesburg our consecutive sec- ond-nine birdies pow- ered Branden Grace to a three-shot vic- toryF yesterday at the South African Open in Johannesburg and ended a 25-month trophy drought. Ormsby carded four-under-par 66 for the third day in a row to complete a wire-to-wire win Grace began the back nine of the fi nal round at Randpark Golf Club at 17 under par and Grace after he birdied the fi - level with fellow South African nal hole was his one-year-son, and defending champion Lou- followed by his wife, who cele- is Oosthuizen, the overnight brated her birthday yesterday. leader. “It was a remarkable per- His birdie rush began at 11 formance,” said Pretoria-born and continued through 14 to Grace after claiming his ninth turn the tide and give Grace European Tour success. “I a fi nal-round 62 and his fi rst played fl awless golf today and silverware since winning the my putter was red hot. 2017 Nedbank Golf Challenge. “This is a trophy I really Grace completed the Eu- wanted to get my hands on be- ropean Tour tournament in cause it means so much for any 263 shots, 21 under par, with South African to win on home 2010 British Open champion soil. Oosthuizen (68) second three “What an emotional day strokes adrift. for the Grace family — I win Marcus Armitage (69) fi n- the South African Open for ished third on 268 and fellow the fi rst time and my wife cel- Englishman Jack Senior (67) ebrates her birthday.” and South African Jaco Ahl- Amid the disappointment of ers (69) shared fourth one shot allowing a three-stroke over- behind. Apart from winning night lead slip, Oosthuizen had the South African Open, Grace the joy of scoring a hole in one took one of three 2020 British at the eighth. Open places up for grabs with His tee shot appeared to be the others going to Armitage heading right of the green, and Ahlers. then hopped left off the fringe Oosthuizen qualifi es auto- and rolled into the cup. matically as the 2010 cham- Armitage was equally pion and Ahlers pipped Sen- thrilled after a birdie at the last ior because of a higher world hole — had he missed Senior ranking. would have taken the British The fi rst person to hug Open slot instead.

FOCUS Longines sponsors CHI AL SHAQAB, Australia’s Wade Ormsby poses with the champion’s trophy after winning the Hong Kong Open golf tournament at the Hong Kong Golf Club yesterday.

in front of a cheering gallery on the 18th AFP Steele grabs march on fi eld with birdies at fi nal three holes and Hathab Hong Kong green. Finau carded 67 to end seven off the ongines has become with Al Shaqab hosting the Honolulu: American Brendan Steele distance with a 66 that left him alone in pace after fi nding water for a double bo- the Presenting Part- Longines Global Champi- ustralia’s Wade Ormsby said he overcame a poor start, remained patient second place. gey on 18. ner, Offi cial Time- ons Tour annually since 2013. hoped he had given bushfi re vic- and then birdied the final three holes to American Kevin Kisner, who three years “Just tried to be aggressive there and Lkeeper and Offi cial This association will be raised tims something to cheer as he break out of a logjam and into a three- ago shot 60 in the third round at Waialae, make a birdie and the wind changed on Watch of CHI AL SHAQAB, as to even greater heights with held off Open champion Shane shot lead after the third round at the Sony had to settle for a 64 this time, a score me,” the big hitter said. well as the Main Partner and Longines having the nam- LowryA to win the protest-delayed Hong “Obviously a little salty taste, but that Offi cial Watch of the Longines ing rights to Al Shaqab’s Open in Hawaii on Saturday. that left him four shots from the lead. Kong Open for the second time in three On an afternoon when the winds abated Steele was in danger of falling out of con- won’t last.” Hathab – Qatar Equestrian main arena and title rights to years yesterday. somewhat after nearly three days of ex- tention after two early bogeys but settled ’s also Tour. our signature event, CHI AL Ormsby carded four-under-par 66 for tremely testing conditions, Steele posted down and hardly hit a bad shot the rest started the fi nal day as one of the chal- Created in 2013, CHI AL SHAQAB. This will surely the third day in a row to complete a wire- a six-under-par 64, matching the day’s of the way. lengers, but the 2019 Order SHAQAB – the only eques- enhance the stature of CHI to-wire win, fi nishing with 17-under 263 best score at Waialae Country Club. “Two over through four (holes) is not the of Merit winner bogeyed twice on the trian event of its kind in the AL SHAQAB in the world of at Fanling for his third victory on the He finished in a sudden downpour and way you’re looking to get going but I felt back nine to end six shots back in fourth, Middle East – welcomes top- equestrian sports.” Asian Tour. posted a 12-under 198 total. Austral- really comfortable with what I was doing one place behind compatriot Gunn Cha- ranking local and internation- Longines Vice President Seeing his countrymen and women ian Cameron Smith also birdied the and I stuck with it and it paid off ,” said roenkul. Amateur 17-year-old Alexander al riders annually to compete Marketing, Matthieu Baum- “pulling together” to fi ght the blazes that final three holes to stay within striking Steele. Yang led the Hong Kong contingent, fi n- in the disciplines of show- gartner, declared: “We are have scorched an area the size of Ireland ishing seven under par before he will fl y jumping, dressage, and para particularly proud to further had given him motivation to perform on back to the US, where he is based, to start dressage. cement our relationship and the world stage, he said. the 2017 champion. Lowry looked in the the last three holes. the school week. Al Shaqab’s Executive Di- to be more closely associated “You just want to get out and do your mood from the start, chipping in superbly Despite the failed chase, he said he was Three other players from the city made rector and CHI AL SHAQAB with Al Shaqab, member of best and give people something to smile from the bunker to birdie the fi rst, with “very happy” with his second place fi nish the weekend cut — a record that has President, Khalifa al-Attiyah, Qatar Foundation. about, something to watch on TV,” he told Finau making a smart putt to do the same. at the tricky Fanling, where he failed to brought cheer to Hong Kong’s sporting said: “Al Shaqab is delight- “We are looking forward to reporters. Lowry, who won his fi rst Major Ormsby started with a bogey but he ral- make the weekend cut when he last ap- community after months of unrest saw ed to enter into a long-term entering this new partnership, title at Portrush in July, shot a dazzling 64 lied over the next eight, going out one bet- peared a decade ago. several prominent events cancelled. partnership with Longines, by becoming the Presenting on the fi nal day but it wasn’t enough as he ter than Lowry and leaving the Irishman “Fair play to Wade, he’s kind of run The Hong Kong Open — whose previ- a well-established global Partner, Offi cial Timekeeper ended four shots behind Ormsby. with serious work to do on the back nine. away with it and never really given us a ous winners include Rory McIlroy and brand, especially known for and Offi cial Watch of CHI AL The Irishman and US Ryder Cup play- A Lowry eagle on the 13th drew a huge chance,” Lowry said. Justin Rose — was originally slated for the role it plays in the fi eld of SHAQAB, as well as the Main er Tony Finau teed off together, both six roar from the crowd but he dropped a shot Ormsby birdied the 17th and calmly November, but was postponed as the city equestrian sports. Partner and Offi cial Watch of shots behind Ormsby and needing to pro- on the 16th to close at 13-under, leaving sunk a short putt at the fi nish, pump- was gripped by pro-democracy demon- “Our association has been the Longines Hathab – Qatar duce something special to chase down Ormsby with a three-shot cushion over ing his fi st in the air and swigging a drink strations. a close one for quite a while, Equestrian Tour.

BOTTOMLINE High-ranking Bulgarian delegation visits Aspire spire Academy yesterday During the meeting, aspects that we could also apply in our welcomed a high-ranking about diff erent approaches to sup- country,” said Bulgaria’s Minister delegation from Bulgaria port the development of talented of Education and Science Valchev led by the Minister of Ed- young athletes were exchanged be- afterwards and stressed that a po- ucationA and Science Krasimir Geor- tween the participants and Nikolay tential collaboration in the fi elds giev Valchev. Kirilov Izov, President of the Na- of teaching and research could be a Aspire Academy’s management tional Sports Academy in Bulgaria, benefi cial future initiative for both used this opportunity to discuss gave an interesting insight into the parties. potential future collaborations. pathway for developing athletes in Besides Minister Valchey and The guests from Southeast Eu- Bulgaria. National Sports Academy President rope were welcomed by Aspire “It’s always very interesting for Izov, the Bulgarian delegation in- Academy’s Deputy Director Gen- us to welcome these kinds of del- cluded Veselina Dimitrova Ganeva, eral Ali Salem Afi fa, who gave them egations, because the exchange Director of the International Coop- a brief overview about the phi- of knowledge and getting to know eration Directorate in the Ministry losophy and the achievements of diff erent approaches in the area of of Education and Science; Victor Qatar’s national sports academy. education, sports development and Borissov Zlatkov, President of the These talks were intensifi ed in a sport science is very important in Sofi a Medical University; Anastas short meeting that also included order to stay up to date,” Afi fa com- Georgiev Gerdjikov, President, of further members of the Academy’s mented on the discussion that was the Sofi a State University “St. Kli- management team such as Badr followed by a tour through the fa- ment Ohridski”; Ivan Mladenov al-Hay, Director of Education and cilities including the Football Per- Kralov, President of the Sofi a Tech- Student Aff airs and Markus Eg- formance Center. nical University and Stoyan Gue- ger, Director of Sport and Strategy. “The process the Aspire Acad- orgiev Dentchev, Chairman of the In order to get deeper into the topic emy has established to select po- General Assembly of the University of balancing education and sports tential athletes out of a very small on Librarian Studies and Informa- training, the discussion was also talent pool and to develop them to tion Technologies and Director of joined by Aspire’s School Principal reach the peak of their potential is the Institute on Information and Jassem al-Jaber. truly impressive. This is something Security. Gulf Times Monday, January 13, 2020 7 TENNIS

FOCUS Williams breaks three-year title drought to win in Auckland Reuters beaten by Pegula in the singles semi- Court’s record 24 Grand Slam singles Wellington, New Zealand fi nals, is retiring after the Australian titles, but has lost two Wimbledon and Open, which runs from Jan 20 to Feb. 2. two US Open fi nals since her 6-4, 6-4 “I have loved coming back here,” victory over elder sister Venus in Mel- erena Williams won her fi rst Wozniacki said after tournament or- bourne. title since the 2017 Australian ganisers made a special presentation “It feels good, it has been a long Open with a 6-3, 6-4 victory before the doubles trophy was given to time,” Williams said. “I played an in- over Jessica Pegula at the Auck- Mohamed and Townsend. credible opponent in Jessica and hon- landS Classic yesterday but was unable “Serena, thank you playing doubles estly it was a great match.” to complete the perfect week in New with me, it has been so much fun and Williams had struggled for consist- Zealand when she lost the doubles fi nal. the only regrets I have is that we didn’t ency earlier in the week, but sent an The 38-year-old Williams, who said do this sooner. ominous message to the Australian she would donate all her prize money “I have had such a blast and it is rare Open fi eld when she demolished prom- to Australian bushfi re relief funds, and that I have this much fun on court and ising teenager Amanda Anisimova 6-1, good friend Caroline Wozniacki were it was a really fun way to fi nish off in 6-1 in their semi-fi nal and then beat an beaten by American duo Asia Mohamed Auckland.” impressive Pegula yesterday. and Taylor Townsend 6-4, 6-4. Williams’ singles victory, however, “I was defi nitely improving as the The result meant that Wozniacki was gave the American her 73rd WTA title week went on and I needed to because unable to complete her own fairytale and broke a near three-year drought, I had some tough matches,” Williams farewell to a tournament with which despite having appeared in fi ve fi nals said. “I feel fortunate and blessed to be she has become synonymous, having since she clinched her 23rd Grand Slam out here and to be healthy and to play. I Serena Williams poses with her daughter played in New Zealand’s largest city crown with a win at the Australian have been playing for so long and been Caroline Wozniacki (left) of Denmark and Serena Williams of the US take a selfie Alexis Olympia and the Auckland Classic every year since 2015. Open in 2017. through so much and I’m happy to be after losing the women’s doubles final to Asia Muhammad and Taylor Townsend of winner’s trophy yesterday. (AFP) The 29-year-old Dane, who was She is chasing Australian Margaret doing something I love.” the US in Auckland yesterday. (AFP)

ATP CUP SPOTLIGHT Pliskova outlasts Emotional Djoko Keys for third Brisbane title Reuters The 2017 and 2019 winner Melbourne, Australia broke again for 6-5 and then served it out to clinch victory in beats Nadal, steers her fi rst meeting with the eighth efending champion seeded American in a little over Karolina Pliskova pre- two hours. ‘I’ll remember this vailed in a three-set “I think what’s more special tug-of-war with Madi- than winning is that I fi nally de- experience for the sonD Keys to become the fi rst fend,” Pliskova said after her fi rst three-time winner at the Bris- successful title defence. rest of my life’ bane International yesterday. “That’s always harder. But, to title A day after clinching a nearly yeah, it took me a couple of years three-hour semi-fi nals duel with to do it, but pleased with that.” AFP ond, with Djokovic saving fi ve Naomi Osaka, the world number Pliskova, who has had consid- Sydney, Australia break points in a crucial sixth two overcame a mid-match blip erable success indoors, made no game. It went to a tiebreaker to triumph 6-4, 4-6, 7-5 in the secrets of her fondness for the where a crunching backhand fi nal at the Pat Rafter Arena. Pat Rafter Arena. n emotional Novak down the line from the Serb gave Pliskova rode her big fi rst “It feels more like an indoor Djokovic overpowered him the break he needed to com- serve to save two break points in court,” said the 21-year-old, long-time rival Rafael plete the victory. the fi rst set and converted on her whose 42 aces in the tourna- Nadal and led Serbia “Every time I play Rafa we get fi rst opportunity to surge ahead. ment will translate into $8,400 toA victory in the inaugural ATP to play a lot of exciting points,” A set and break down, Keys towards bushfire relief in Aus- Cup yesterday, capping a perfect Djokovic said. “We had some in- broke back to level it 3-3 and went tralia. build up to his Australian Open credible exchanges.” on to win the set and force a de- “The conditions are perfect for title defence. Nadal said he was happy with cider, in which the fi rst six games me indoors — no wind, no sun... The world number two blast- the way he fought back in the stayed on serve before Pliskova so I can hit with full power.” ed the top-ranked Spaniard off second set. broke the American in the seventh. Keys said she was surprised by court 6-2, 7-6 (4) after world “I had my chances. I was very Keys refused to throw in the Pliskova’s anticipation. number 10 Roberto Bautista close. I’m not happy with the loss, towel, however, and foiled the “Even if you’d say movement Agut caned Serbia’s Dusan Lajo- of course, but the feeling in that Czech’s fi rst attempt to serve out isn’t her strength, she covers the vic 7-5, 6-1 in the other singles. second set is positive,” he said. the match at 5-4. court really well which makes A fresh Djokovic returned to “Probably today was maybe a lit- Pliskova could not be denied you start to go for a little more,” Sydney’s Ken Rosewall Arena for tle bit too early in the season.” though. she said. the deciding doubles but Nadal Djokovic owned a perfect 6-0 opted not to, saying his energy singles record at the tournament. levels were too low, with Feli- Nadal won four and lost two. ciano Lopez partnering Pablo Bautista Agut was a class Carreno Busta. above Lajovic, ranked 34, also But they proved no match for earning the distinction of going Djokovic and Viktor Troicki, through the tournament un- who bounced back from a break beaten. down in the fi rst set to romp Effi cient and emotionless, he home 6-3, 6-4 and ensure Ser- got off to a fl yer, racing into a 3-0 bia was the last country stand- lead as the Lajovic struggled to ing from the 24 that began the fi nd any rhythm. But he fi nally season-opening event. settled and hauled himself back “I’ll remember this experience into the set. for the rest of my life. It’s one of It went with serve until the the nicest moments in my career,” Spaniard’s dominance from the said Djokovic, who close to tears Serbia’s Novak Djokovic celebrates after he and partner Viktor Troicki (not pictured) won the Final baseline earned him two more after winning the doubles. doubles match against Spain to win the ATP Cup in Sydney, Australia, yesterday. (Reuters) break points in the 12th game “I’ve been very fortunate to and he took the set. have an amazing career these by the passion of athletes rep- bid to win an eighth Australian able win against Nadal in the The Serbian lost confi dence as Karolina Pliskova of the kisses her trophy after winning last 15 years, but playing for the resenting their home countries. Open crown this month, went Australian Open fi nal last year. Bautista Agut raced to victory, the Brisbane International tennis tournament yesterday. (AFP) team, playing for my country Some US$15 mn in prize mon- into his clash with Nadal leading with his unrelenting consist- with some of my best friends ey was at stake along with up their head-to-heads 28-26. NOT HAPPY ency proving too much. for a long time, you can’t match to 750 singles and 250 doubles But the statistics did not tell He showed his intent imme- “He was aggressive and step- that. It’s too special.” ATP rankings points, with new the full story. diately and broke Nadal in the ping inside the baseline to manage American pair crash to defeat The doubles drew the curtain rules trialled including on-court The Serb had won nine of opening game with no let-up, the game, but I believed I could on an event that proved a big hit coaching and team zones in the their past 12 contests and been as his driving groundstrokes and change it and I played a great end at Adelaide fi rst hurdle with players and fans, dishing corners of the court. dominant over the years on hard deft touches proved too much. of the fi rst set and a great second up competitive matches driven Djokovic, warming up for his courts — including a comfort- Nadal lifted in an intense sec- set,” said Bautista Agut. AFP by reaching the second round, Adelaide, Australia saving three of four break points against Opelka. COMMENT Women’s play at the new Aus- pair of American seeds tralian Open tune-up event is crashed to defeat in due to start on Monday. A yesterday’s opening Third seed Petra Kvitova, a Bris- Nadal renews call for ATP Cup and Davis Cup to merge day of the ATP-WTA Adelaide bane International semi-finalist, International, with Taylor Fritz was a late withdrawal, with AFP number two Novak Djokovic, heads the ATP players’ council. and Reilly Opelka failing to live three-time unseeded Grand Sydney, Australia believe they are too close to- “We need to have one Super up to their billing. Slam winner Angelique Kerber gether. World Cup event, whatever you Tournament number five Fritz moving up to take the Czech’s “I think it (ATP Cup) is a want to call it,” he said. saved three match points but spot in the draw. orld number one great competition, but at the “That’s not going to happen ended up losing 6-4, 7-6 (4) to A lucky loser from qualifying Rafael Nadal re- same time I can’t change my next year as well. But if the two ’s Alexander Bublik. will also be inserted. newed his call yes- mind that two World Cups in sides, the ITF, the Davis Cup, The 31st-ranked American is Australians head both fields, terday for the new one month is not real,” said and the ATP get together very off to a poor start in 2020 after with ATP Cup semi-finalist Alex WATP Cup to merge with the Dav- Nadal after he was beaten by quickly, it can happen possibly suff ering his third defeat from De Minaur and world number is Cup, urging tennis chiefs to fi x Djokovic in two sets during the for 2022. four matches since beginning one Ashleigh Barty taking their it “for the health of our sport”. ATP Cup final. “I hope it will happen because his season last week at the ATP respective top seedings. The inaugural 24-team ATP “It is not possible. We need to it’s kind of hard to get top players Cup in Perth. Fritz was on the back foot from Cup, played in Sydney, Brisbane fi nd a way to fi x it and we need to commit to play both events.” Compatriot Opelka, seeded the start at Memorial Drive and Perth in a revamped start to to fi nd a way to make a big deal Asked when would be the best eight, met a similar fate, failing against the 55th-ranked Bublik. the season, has proved a hit with with ITF and ATP to create a big time to hold a combined event, to convert on three match The Kazakh won the opening many players and fans. World Team Cup competition, Nadal was non-committal. points in the second set to ul- set with one break of serve But it took place just six weeks not two World Cups. “I can’t tell you my real opin- timately go down to persistent and ran away to 5-0 in the after the new-look Davis Cup in “I think that’s a confusion for ion, because it will not make Pablo Cuevas of 5-7, second set tiebreaker before Madrid, won by Nadal’s Spain, the spectators, and we need to sense today. And it’s not that 7-6 (9), 7-6 (2). Fritz could get onto the score- which also has countries com- be clear in our sport,” he added. easy. It needs a little bit (of a) The 36th-ranked American, board. peting against each other in a “And for the health of our sport longer conversation.” who complained about not The American staved off the round-robin format. and for the benefi t of our sport, But he did hint that holding being chosen for his country’s inevitable as he saved three One of the events is run by in my opinion, it is mandatory such a gruelling competition ATP Cup side, was unable to match points before losing in the men’s tour, the Association that we fi x it.” at the start of the year was not capitalise on his 36 aces. 99 minutes with Bublik next of Tennis Professionals, and the The issue of merging the two ideal. Cuevas, who lost three match- playing the winner from Briton other by the International Ten- was fi rst mooted by Canadian “Is a long competition. Is a Spain’s Rafael Nadal in action during his match against Serbia’s es at the ATP Cup for Uruguay, Dan Evans and Argentine Juan nis Federation. Denis Shapovalov this month tough way to start the season. I Novak Djokovic (not pictured) in the ATP Cup in Sydney, Australia, got his season back on track Ignacio Londero. Nadal, along with world and backed by Djokovic, who don’t know.” yesterday. (Reuters)