FFOOTBALLOOTBALL | Page 2 CCRICKETRICKET | Page 4 We must be Will he, won’t wary of Duhail he? Guessing attack, says Al game on Sadd star Nam Dhoni’s future

Thursday, January 16, 2020 TENNIS Jumada I 21, 1441 AH Federer eyeing GULF TIMES another miracle in Melbourne SPORT Page 7

RALLYING

‘NOTHING IS OVER YET. THERE IS STILL A LONG WAY TOMORROW WITH 80KM OF SAND DUNES’ The result means Sainz, with two stages to go, now sits 18:10 ahead of al-Attiyah and 18:26 in front of Peter- hansel. “It was really going very well with no problems. We caught Stéphane and then at one point we got a little bit lost for two or three minutes. Then we got to the way-point and then we took the wrong way,” said al-Attiyah. “We did around twenty kilometres extra. But we came back again and we fi nished. We lost more than 18 or 19 minutes to Carlos, but that’s the race and it’s still a long day tomorrow.” Al-Attiyah added that he’lll have to have a good day today. “Carlos will be opening and I’ll be starting in 17th position, but tomorrow we need to drive a good stage. “It’s very diffi cult to put the pres- sure on but we need to do a good stage fi rst of all. Nothing is over yet. There is AFP terhansel. still a long way tomorrow with 80km of Shubaytah, Saudi Arabia “It was a good day. The navigation is sand dunes. diffi cult since the start of the rally, but “Things will be diffi cult for eve- today we didn’t make any mistakes. rybody. Carlos will be opening and it panish veteran Carlos Sainz Our speed was good and we were at- won’t be easy. But today, I’m a little bit stretched his lead atop the tacking,” said Sainz. disappointed”. overall Dakar Rally standings by “There were a lot of broken dunes Meanwhile, Peterhansel said the winning the 10th stage through which can be tricky. On one of them we dunes made it diffi cult. Sthe dunes of Saudi Arabia’s Empty landed heavily which damaged the car “It was a dangerous stage with lots Quarter yesterday. a bit, but in the end it was ok and we of diffi cult dunes,” Peterhansel said. The 57-year-old Mini driver clocked were able to fi nish. “Several kilometres before the neu- 2hr 03min 43sec on a stage shortened “I didn’t think the gap would be so tralised section, we got completely lost by high winds to a 233km special be- big, but tomorrow it could be the op- with Nasser and other drivers. Some Qatar’s Nasser al-Attiyah of Toyota Gazoo Racing races during stage 10 of Rally Dakar 2020 from Haradh to Shubaytah in tween Haradh and Shubaytah, fi nish- posite, so I’ll have to stay focused. I drivers got there at the right time, Saudi Arabia yesterday. ing ahead of Poland’s Jakub Przygonski could get lost – it happened to the when we eventually found the right (mini) and South African Giniel de Vil- others today so it could happen to me way and gained a lot of time. Dakar debutant Fernando Alonso, American Ricky Brabec increased minutes and stage winner Joan Barreda lier (Toyota). tomorrow”. Peterhansel, who has won “In the end, it’s a good stage for my the two-time former Formula One his lead in the general standings of the of Spain by 27 minutes. Sainz took full advantage of naviga- the Dakar 13 times (seven times in a car teammate Carlos who has opened up a champion, lost more than an hour after motorbike category with a second- Thursday’s penultimate stage 11 sees tional problems by closest rivals Nass- and six times on a bike), fi nished 11min gap on Nasser, whilst we have got a bit double rolling his Toyota, an accident placed fi nish. competitors negotiate 744km, featur- er al-Attiyah, the defending champion, 48sec off Sainz’s pace, while Qatar’s closer to Nasser even if we are still in that saw the Spaniard carry on driving The HRC rider now leads Chilean ing a 379km special, from Shubaytah and France’s ‘Mr. Dakar’, Stephane Pe- al-Attiyah was further back, at 17:46. third position.” with no windscreen. Pablo Quintanilla (Husqvarna) by 25 back to Haradh.

BOTTOMLINE England’s Stokes named ICC player of the year

AFP However, the New Zealand-born star “The last 12 months have been the Dubai said his award was not solely for him as best in my career, and I believe what we an individual. attained will be the catalyst to achieve “The past 12 months have been in- further success over the next few years.” en Stokes was yesterday named credible for England cricket and to lift Indian opener Rohit Sharma was the International Cricket Coun- the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup for the named the ODI cricketer of the year cil player of the year, capping fi rst time was our greatest achievement,” while captain Virat Kohli bagged the Ban unforgettable 2019 for the said Stokes. Spirit of Cricket award for his gesture to swashbuckling England all-rounder that “This award is testament to my team- stop fans from booing Australia’s Steve included a match-winning knock at the mates and the support staff that have Smith during a World Cup match. World Cup. been there every step of the way. Smith was returning to international Stokes won the coveted Sir Garfi eld “Fundamentally, without the support cricket from a one-year suspension for File photo of England’s Sobers trophy — voted for by a panel of of these individuals, we would never changing the condition of the ball. Ben Stokes, who had a media representatives and former play- have achieved our objective of lifting a “I’m surprised that I have got it, after brilliant 2019 and was ers — thanks to an unbeaten 84 in a dra- major trophy.” many years of being under the scanner named ICC player of the year. matic fi nal against New Zealand in July Stokes, who carried his form into this for the wrong things,” Kohli said in a followed by a brilliant 135 not out to win year with a man of the match perform- statement put out by ICC. the third Ashes Test against Australia six ance in the second Test victory over “That moment was purely under- weeks later. South Africa last week, said the strong standing an individual’s situation. I Stokes, 28, said it was a huge hon- bonds between the players can lead to don’t think a guy who is coming out of a our for any cricketer to receive such an further success. situation like that needs to be taken ad- award. “There is an incredible bond between vantage of.” “To be recognised and be the person to teammates and to savour our achieve- Kohli was also named captain of both win that (award) it’s pretty amazing,” he ments, whether that’s winning the the ICC Test and ODI teams of the year. said in a video statement. World Cup fi nal at Lord’s or digging deep In other major awards, Australia fast During the voting period, Stokes ag- to win a Test match against Australia at bowler Pat Cummins was named the gregated 719 runs and bagged 12 wickets Headingley,” said Stokes. Test player of the year and teammate in 20 ODIs. He also scored 821 runs and “It is satisfying you can accomplish Marnus Labuschagne was declared took 22 wickets in 11 Tests. these superb highs together. emerging cricketer of the year. Gulf Times 2 Thursday, January 16, 2020 FOOTBALL

QATAR CUP FINAL We must be wary of Duhail’s attack, says Al Sadd’s Nam ‘In all aspects, both teams are strong and it’s going to be a tough game, for sure. We’ll give off our best. It’s anybody’s game’ am Tae-hee, one of the star foreign profession- als in Qatar, is known for his skills as an at- Ntacking midfi elder. The South Korean is lending stability to the Al Sadd midfi eld ever since he joined them at the start of this season from Al Duhail. Ahead of their Qatar Cup fi - nal against Al Duhail at the Al Sadd Stadium tomorrow, Nam spoke on a wide range of topics. Excerpts:

What’s so special about the Qatar Cup? I’ve played in the Qatar Cup many times and won the trophy twice. It’s a very special feel- ing. No doubt, it’s a prestigious tournament and, naturally, the players are excited, especially when it comes to playing in the final.

How do you look forward to your Qatar Cup final against your former team Al Duhail? It’s also a strange feeling and playing against my former team in the fi nal makes me overly ex- cited. But I’m comfortable play- ing against Al Duhail and I want to win this match.

What’re Al Sadd’s chances against Al Duhail? In all aspects, both teams are strong and it’s going to be a tough game, for sure. We’ll give off our best. It’s anybody’s game. Al Sadd’s Nam Tae-hee (left) with teammate Jung Woo-young during a training session. (Twitter/AlsaddSC)

How do you analyse the stage and beat them in the sec- How’re the preparations go- andez). We’ll be ready in time for nal of the Qatar Cup. The team is whenever we play Al Duhail. AFC Champions League. matches between Al Sadd and ond to progress to the quarter- ing on for the fi nal fi xture? the fi nal. well set now. Small details will make big dif- What role will fans play in the Al Duhail? fi nals. Preparations have been normal How do you rate Al Sadd’s What’ll be the strategy ference. fi nal match? Al Duhail are strong. We’re Then, we beat them in the even though it’s a special match. performance this season? against such an aggressive What’re your targets for this We need their support more in the strong too. We’ve already faced season-opening Sheikh Jas- We got adequate rest after our We’ve had ups and downs, but side as Al Duhail? season? fi nal. Fan factor counts a lot espe- off four times since the start of sim Cup, but lost to them in semifi nal against Al Rayyan on we fared pretty well in the last We must be wary of Al Duhail’s We want to win the league cially in cup competitions. We’ve this season. We drew our fi rst QNB Stars League’s first leg. I Saturday and resumed training few matches, like the one against attack, so we’ll focus more on championship and the remain- always enjoyed their backing and match in the double-leg AFC wish we win this time around on Tuesday evening under the Al Arabi in the Qatar Derby of tightening up our defence. Over- ing cup competitions. We’re also expect the same this time as well. Champions League Round of 16 as well. astute eyes of coach Xavi (Hern- QNB Stars League and semi-fi - all, we must be at our very best keen to make it to the fi nal of qsl.qa

COMMENT FA CUP ‘Xavi will be manager Tottenham reach fourth of Barcelona one day’ round, Newcastle cruise AFP Barcelona AFP London avi Hernandez may have just turned down ottenham edged into the chance to coach the FA Cup fourth Barcelona but “he will round as Giovani Lo Xbe manager one day”, the Catalan Celso bagged a rare goal club’s president Josewp Maria Tin their 2-1 win over Middles- Bartomeu said yesterday. brough, while much-maligned Former Barca captain Xavi was Newcastle striker Joelinton approached for the Camp Nou scored for the fi rst time since job last week but rejected the of- August in a victory against Ro- fer, preferring to remain as boss chdale on Tuesday. of Qatari team Al Sadd for the Jose Mourinho’s side almost time being. killed off second-tier Mid- That led to Quique Setien’s dlesbrough within the fi rst 15 appointment as successor to minutes of the third round re- sacked Ernesto Valverde on play at the Tottenham Hotspur Monday, the 61-year-old signing Stadium. a contact until June 2022, with a Lo Celso, on loan from Real break clause in 2021, to allow for Betis, got Tottenham up and change after the club’s presiden- running with only his second Tottenham Hotspur’s Giovani Lo Celso celebrates with teammates after scoring their first goal against tial elections. goal of the season and his fi rst Middlesbrough in London on Tuesday. (Reuters) Bartomeu believes that in Set- Al Sadd coach Xavi. (Reuters) since a Champions League ien they have found a more than strike against Red Star Belgrade Lamela sliced through the so bad that they have not gone striker’s 20-game goal drought suitable alternative after failing Cup with Spain in 2010, came enormous drive and who knows in November. Middlesbrough defence be- beyond the fourth round for 13 and brought him a fi rst goal at to land their fi rst choice. through Barcelona’s academy our football perfectly.” It was an encouraging mo- fore slotting home in the 15th years, have not won the com- St James’ Park since his move “He has shown in the teams and played 855 senior games Valverde was the fi rst coach to ment for the Argentine mid- minute. petition since 1955 and last from Hoff enheim last year. he’s been with that he loves the for the club. After an emotional be sacked by Barca mid-season fi elder, who has endured a dif- George Saville got one back reached the fi nal in 1999. “It’s a hard job up front. The beautiful game, he loves above farewell, he joined Al Sadd as a since Louis van Gaal in 2003. fi cult season in north London. for Middlesbrough in the 83rd They were never in danger of burden that comes on you can all the way we like to see the player in 2015 before being ap- Despite the change of man- Tottenham needed a Lucas minute as Tottenham survived an embarrassing exit, in front of become diffi cult,” Bruce said. game played and it’s because of pointed coach last July. agement Setien inherits a side Moura equaliser at the River- a tense fi nale to earn a trip to controversial owner Mike Ash- “You never worry because this that he was selected,” Bar- “Xavi will be manager of Barca sitting top of La Liga, albeit level side Stadium to avoid a shock Southampton. ley, after Rochdale defender you see him in training and tomeu told Sport website. one day, I have no doubt about on points with Real Madrid, and exit in the 1-1 draw at Middles- “I told my players at half time Eoghan O’Connell turned Matt know what he’s got. Let’s hope But he also had warm words that,” he said. “He is very com- facing Napoli next month in the brough earlier this month. if we don’t score 3-0 then at 2-1 Ritchie’s cross into his own net it gives him some confi dence.” for Xavi, who won the World petent, he is someone with an last 16 of the Champions League. But Mourinho still made fi ve we would be in trouble and it in the 17th minute. Third-tier Shrewsbury changes from last weekend’s happened,” Mourinho said. Matty Longstaff doubled earned a home tie against Pre- defeat against Liverpool, with “The boys are trying their Newcastle’s lead with a clini- mier League leaders Liverpool ‘I gained fi ve kilos’ – Hazard admits to holiday excesses Christian Eriksen, linked with best. Is the FA Cup a prior- cal close-range fi nish three as Aaron Pierre’s 89th-minute a January move to Inter Mi- ity now? In this moment it is minutes later. Miguel Almiron strike clinched a surprise 1-0 Real Madrid forward Eden packing some extra weight. mer I went up to 80 kilos but I lan, starting despite the Dane’s not the priority. The prior- had put Newcastle in front in win against Championship side Hazard has admitted to letting “It’s true, I cannot lie, if I’m on lost it again 10 days later.” form being aff ected by the ity is to play a diffi cult match the 1-1 draw at Rochdale and Bristol City. himself go while on holiday and holiday, then I’m on holiday,” Perhaps set back by his extra transfer talk. against Watford in the Premier he bagged the Magpies’ third Coventry’s 3-0 win against piling on the pounds after sign- Hazard told Belgian magazine weight, Hazard, 28, made a slow A gift from Middlesbrough League.” goal this time, seizing on a mis- Bristol Rovers set up the unu- ing for the Spanish giants in the Sport/Foot. start to his Real career and did keeper Tomas Mejias helped placed pass from keeper Robert sual prospect of the League close season last year. “I put on five kilos in the sum- not score his first goal until a 4-2 Tottenham open the scoring in JOELINTON ENDS DROUGHT Sanchez and slotting home in One side being the ‘home’ The Belgium international, who mer. I’m one of those people win over Granada in October. the second minute. At St James’ Park, Newcas- the 26th minute. team against Birmingham in after years of flirtation finally who puts on weight very quickly He began to hit form soon after Mejias tried to play a quick tle wasted little time putting In the 82nd minute, the be- the fourth round - even though signed for Real from Chelsea then loses it very quickly. but he has been out of action ball out and ended up passing third-tier Rochdale to the leaguered Joelinton converted they are currently tenants of for a joint-club record 100 “When I was at Lille I weighed 72 since injuring his ankle in a 2-2 straight to Lo Celso, who ran sword as they booked a home a cross from debutant Tom Al- their local rivals at St Andrew’s. million euros ($111.3 million) in kilos but then I gained muscle draw with Paris St Germain across the area before fi ring date with League One side Ox- lan and showed his relief as he Watford’s trip to Tranmere June, raised eyebrows when he and went to 75 kilos. On a bad in the Champions League on into the bottom corner. ford in the last 32 with a 4-1 sprinted to hug Bruce on the was postponed due to a water- reported for pre-season training day I can weigh 77. In the sum- November 26. Tottenham’s second came win. touchline. logged pitch caused by Storm when Argentina winger Erik Newcastle’s FA Cup form is That ended the Brazilian Brendan. Gulf Times Thursday, January 16, 2020 3 FOOTBALL

AFC U23 CHAMPIONSHIP Qatar miss spot in quarters aft er Japan draw AFC.com low across the area 11 minutes foul on Yusuf Abdurisag after Bangkok into the game that, agonisingly consulting the Video Assistant for the Japanese, no one in a blue Referee. shirt was able to reach. Despite their numerical ad- en-man Japan held on Reo Hatate went closer three vantage, Qatar struggled. Nasser to claim their fi rst point minutes later when he was given Alahrak ballooned his shot over of the AFC U23 Cham- time and space in the box thanks the bar 10 minutes into the half pionship Thailand 2020 to Shunta Tanaka’s lofted pass, while Ahmed Alhamawende sent Tyesterday as Hajime Moriyasu’s only for goalkeeper Mohamed a free-kick high over the bar. side earned a 1-1 draw against al-Bakri to smother the shot. Instead it was Japan who Qatar that meant the two-time Soma was having considerable opened the scoring in the 73rd semi-fi nalists missed out on a joy down Japan’s right and he minute as Koki Ogawa picked up place in the knockout rounds. again threatened to unlock the possession from Ryotaro Meshi- Felix Sanchez’s side needed to Qatar defence as he found Daiki no 20 yards from goal and beat win to advance to the quarter- Sugioka eight yards from goal. Albakri with a low drive to the fi nals for the third tournament in The Shonan Bellmare wing- goalkeeper’s right. a row but a resolute performance back, however, steered his eff ort Six minutes later Qatar were by Japan, despite Ao Tanaka’s harmlessly across the target. level when Alahrak converted sending off in the dying seconds The chances kept coming for confi dently from the penalty of the fi rst half, ensured the 2016 Japan, with Hatate mis-kicking spot after Mitsuki Saito clipped champions salvaged a draw. when he should have hit the tar- the heels of Khalid Mazeed, but The Japanese went into the get before Shunta Tanaka shot the West Asians were incapable fi nal Group B match looking to wide despite having time and of fi nding the winner and, in the reclaim some pride having been space to do better. Qatar, in con- end, both teams slid out of the eliminated from contention for trast, had been limited to Jassem competition. a place in the next phase follow- Abdulsallam’s tame shot from ing back-to-back defeats in their outside the area. opening games against Saudi However, with only seconds Arabia and Syria. left in fi rst half injury time, the Qatar and Japan players vying Moriyasu’s side looked the Japanese were reduced to 10 for the ball during their AFC U23 more likely to take the lead, with men when referee Muhammad Championship Group ‘B’ match Yuki Soma sending a searing ball Taqi dismissed Ao Tanaka for a yesterday.

BUNDESLIGA ITALIAN CUP Fiorentina beat Atalanta to set up Coach Flick steps Inter quarters clash

AFP went close twice around the Milan hour mark. Pasalic was denied by the onrushing Pietro Terrac- ciano before Robin Gosens hit iorentina will take on In- Luis Muriel’s cross against the up for recharged ter Milan in the Italian post with the goal at his mercy. Cup quarter-fi nals after They scored their deserved Pol Lirola shot the 10- leveller when former Fiorentina manF Tuscan side past Atalanta man Ilicic turned in another su- 2-1 yesterday in an enthralling perb Malinovskiy cross. encounter in Florence. Things grew tougher for the Spaniard Lirola collected Erik hosts when Pezzella was sent Pulgar’s long drilled pass before off after being caught diving and Bayern Munich charging towards goal and slot- receiving a second yellow card, ting home his fi rst Fiorentina but Lirola won the tie to set up ‘The general mood is excellent, we have a good mentality in the team’ goal six minutes from time, win- a tough match with Serie A title ning the tie for the hosts despite chasers Inter. DPA German Pezzella’s sending off 14 Inter thumped Cagliari 4-1 Munich minutes earlier. on Tuesday. Romelu Lukaku Patrick Cutrone also scored opened the scoring after just 21 his fi rst goal for the club when seconds and headed home an- ayern Munich coach he put Fiorentina ahead in the other early in the second half to Hansi Flick says he is 11th minute of his fi rst start since book Antonio Conte’s side a spot “completely relaxed” arriving on loan from Wolver- in the quarters. but knows his job is on hampton Wanderers last week. Further goals from Borja Vale- theB line when the Bundesliga The Italian laid the ball off to ro and Andrea Ranocchia helped resumes this weekend. Dalbert, who pulled back a per- Inter bounce back after a 1-1 The record German champi- fect pass that allowed the for- home draw with Atalanta at the ons again fi nd themselves playing ward to stroke the ball into an weekend that let Juventus take catch-up at the half-way stage of empty net. Atalanta should have top spot in Serie A. the league season, but the mood been level when Mario Pasalic The winner of the last eight in Munich is upbeat after what crashed Ruslan Malinovskiy’s clash later this month will have was seen as a positive winter cross against the bar from point a semi-fi nal against either Lazio break training camp in Doha. blank range. or Napoli who comfortably saw Buoyed also by a new spon- The away side were much off second-tier sides Cremonese sorship deal with one of the improved after the interval and and Perugia on Tuesday. country’s leading car manufac- turers and a long-time partner, Bayern begin their assault on a EPL possible eighth straight league title when they visit Hertha Berlin on Sunday. Flick has done his hopes of Goals best medicine landing the permanent coach- ing job no harm since stepping up to replace Niko Kovac in No- for Lacazette, says vember. An initial stop-gap ap- pointment has been extended until the end of the season. Arsenal boss Arteta Flick’s future will now de- pend on whether Bayern can Reuters make up a four-point defi cit London on leaders RB Leipzig and also Bayern Munich’s head coach Hansi Flick (centre) leads a training session during the team’s camp in Doha on January 9, 2020. (AFP) progress in the Champions League, with Chelsea a diffi cult but all will now depend on re- sia Dortmund, but Kovac led the Like others in the squad, the players clear guidelines. rsenal boss Mikel further obstacle in the last 16. sults in the coming months. team to the league and cup dou- though, he has put in a good “I knew what sort of person he Arteta said yester- After winning eight of 10 The coach also appears to ble in his fi rst season in charge. word for Flick, praising not is but his qualities as head coach day that he is look- games, the 54-year-old is en- have the full backing of lead- That rescued his posi- only the coach’s empathetic was something I could not as- ing to help Alexandre joying the head coaching job ing players, and Flick himself tion which had appeared un- ways but also his tactical ap- sess 100 per cent. But the way LacazetteA rediscover his goal- and can no longer envisage a is pleased with the spirit in the der threat until a spell of fi ve proach. he talks to the team is very posi- scoring touch with fellow striker return to a number 2 role should team and praised the way it re- straight wins before the winter “The way we are playing is tive,” he said. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang set Bayern choose in the end to ap- sponded to a more intensive break. more attractive,” he said. “We Flick’s future could also in- to serve a three-match ban. point a new coach from outside. training regime in Doha. However the coaching seat is are attacking higher up, we are fl uence the plans of captain and Arsenal’s top scorer Aubam- “I am really enjoying it,” he “It’s good when the guys never safe at Bayern, and when pressing higher, we are forcing goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who eyang was sent off for a rash said during the training week in are content. When they know: performances dipped early this the opponents to make mis- wants to see what develops be- challenge on Crystal Palace’s Doha. “Bayern is a top club with The training has done me a lot season, the club were quick to takes. fore deciding an any extended Max Meyer during their 1-1 draw competitions. “You can help him so much power. Let’s wait and of good, it has helped me to part company with Kovac. “We players are happy and contract deal. on Saturday and Arteta said the (Lacazette) by talking to him and see what the future brings.” progress. The general mood is Bayern midfi elder/defender you see that.” “For me the fi rst most impor- striker would serve a three-match giving him confi dence, but that The Bayern management, excellent, we have a good men- Joshua Kimmich said: “I am Forward Thomas Muel- tant thing is what happens with suspension after an appeal to re- ball has to end up in the net,” which now includes former tality in the team,” he said. in my fi fth year at Bayern and ler said Flick, whom he also Hansi Flick,” 33-year-old Neuer duce it to one game was rejected. Arteta added. “I think that’s the keeper Oliver Kahn, have given At the same stage a year ago, already have had fi ve coaches, knew well as assistant coach said when asked on a possible “It has been confi rmed that best medicine for strikers. every impression of liking what Bayern resumed after the winter which is not typical for a club to Joachim Loew with the Ger- two-year extension from the he is going to be suspended for “What we have to try to do is they have seen of Flick’s work, break six points behind Borus- like Bayern.” man national squad, had given end of next season. three games,” Arteta told report- put Laca in positions where he ers yesterday ahead of 10th- can have as many opportunities placed Arsenal’s league match to do that as possible during a against Sheffi eld United on Sat- game.” Licence-less Klinsmann left red-faced before Bayern clash urday. “It’s a big shame and a With the transfer window big loss for us because as well we open until the end of the month, With the Bundesliga resuming after a four-week winter break. claims is at the family home in second division must hold a having initially only joined Her- know Auba’s intention when he Arteta confi rmed he had a wish- this weekend, ex-Germany and Under Klinsmann, Hertha took California. Both Klinsmann and valid licence and attend regular tha’s supervisory board. plays. But unfortunately he mis- list but said there was “no truth USA head coach Jurgen Klins- 10 points from 12 in their last Hertha could be fined if his li- refresher courses, leaving “(When I was home) at Christ- timed the tackle, he made a deci- at all” regarding media rumours mann has been left red-faced four league games of 2019 cence, which he gained in 2000 Klinsmann frantically hunting mas, I simply forgot the docu- sion and we have to accept it. linking Manchester City defend- after it emerged the Hertha to climb to mid-table before on a German Football Associa- for the necessary paperwork ments, but I am in the process “Players have to step up. You er John Stones to the north Lon- Berlin boss is unable to prove hosting mighty Bayern, who tion (DFB) coaching course, is and certificates. of providing the necessary know, when one of your big don club. “John is a player that he holds an up-to-date coach- sit third in the league, four not up to date. “With regards “When I flew to Berlin at the paperwork.” players is not there, they have to I really like and I followed,” the ing licence. points behind leaders Leipzig. to Jurgen Klinsmann, proof end of November, I didn’t think Tobias Haupt, head of the Ger- take responsibility.” Spaniard said. “We signed him The 55-year-old took charge in However, the former star striker of a valid coaching licence is I would need my coaching man FA’s coaching academy, Lacazette, who has scored when I was at Manchester City late November at Hertha, who has fallen foul of the German currently missing,” the DFL licence and the relevant certifi- said they are looking into re- only fi ve times in the league and I worked with him for many host defending champions Football League (DFL) because confirmed in a statement. cates,” explained Klinsmann, solving the issue and Klinsmann this season, is expected to lead years and know him well. Bayern Munich on Sunday he can not prove he holds a Under DFL regulations, a head who stepped in as head coach could “close any gaps” by tak- the line but he has struggled “When I look at centre backs when the Bundesliga restarts valid coaching licence, which he coach in Germany’s first or after Ante Covic was sacked, ing part in a refresher course. for form and has not found the he has many attributes that I back of the net in six games in all like, but we’re not interested.” Gulf Times 4 Thursday, January 16, 2020 CRICKET

FOCUS THIRD TEST England unsure over Archer, Wood Will he, won’t he? availability

Reuters as well. He has played a huge Port Elizabeth amount of cricket since he has come into the international arena and we have seen a little ngland captain Joe bit of push-back from his body Guessing game on Root says fast bowlers with that elbow injury. Jofra Archer and Mark “If he is fi t and raring to go Wood must still prove you want him in your side. But theirE fi tness to be included in you want to make sure that he the side to play South Africa is able to deliver all of his skills in the third Test at St George’s and not just seam it around Park that starts today. and swing it, but do it all at 90 England are seeking a re- miles an hour.” Dhoni’s future placement for James Ander- Wood’s chequered past with son, whose tour has ended af- injuries means the selectors MSD’s imminent return to the IPL could mean his international swansong is yet to come ter he picked up a rib injury in are cautious over him as well, the 189-run second Test vic- and Root suggested that he, tory in Cape Town. like Archer, must be able to Archer missed that game bowl at full pace to get into the with an elbow problem and line-up. “The reason we have Wood has had a number of fi t- been quite cautious in terms ness issues in the past, mean- of rushing him back is that (in- ing neither might get the nod. jury) history and knowing that “No decision has been his value in the team is being at made,” Root told reporters. 100%,” the skipper added. “It is important to use today’s “If he is 100% and fi ring, the training session to get a real skills he has at his pace will be clear understanding of where a great asset in Test cricket.” everybody is at and as this tour One player who will defi - has proven, make sure that we nitely play a prominent role is are all ready to go when we all-rounder Ben Stokes, who turn up to play.” was named ICC Player of the Root suggested a fully fi t Year yesterday. Archer would play, but wheth- “It is hard to say any more er his elbow will hold up over superlatives, it is the right de- fi ve days, allowing him to bowl cision and it could not really at his full intensity, is the big have been anyone else,” Root question. said. “With Jofra, he is 24-years- “The way he has performed old, right at the start of his across all the formats has been Test career and has a huge fantastic. In my opinion he is amount of ability. It is clear to defi nitely the leading player in see what he is capable of do- the world at the moment.” ing,” Root said. The series is level at 1-1 af- “But managing workloads ter South Africa won the fi rst is a very important part of it Test.

Pant stable aft er concussion but ruled out of second ODI Rishabh Pant will miss tomorrow’s second one-day international against Australia after suff ering a concussion in the opening defeat, Indian team management said. Pant was hit on the helmet by Australian pace man Pat File photo of India’s Mahendra Singh Dhoni. (AFP) Cummins while batting and did not return to keep wickets in India’s crushing 10-wicket AFP reveal his plans until this month, but that and that is between us... in all probability, tors have backed new talent such as Rishabh loss on Tuesday in Mumbai. KL New Delhi hasn’t stopped constant questions about his he will fi nish one-day cricket,” Shastri told Pant and Sanju Samson for the wicketkeep- Rahul had to take over. sabbatical at team press conferences. Indian television. er-batsman’s role in T20. Both have yet to “He is stable and all his scan With India’s demanding fanbase setting “At his age, probably the only format he’ll convince. Dhoni led India to the inaugural reports are clear,” the Board ormer India captain Mahendra their sights on a Twenty20 World Cup win want to play is T20 cricket which means he’ll T20 world title in 2007. He hit a six to seal of Control for Cricket in India Singh Dhoni’s illustrious career is in Australia later this year, speculation over have to start playing again, get back into the the 2011 World Cup fi nal victory and his sta- (BCCI) said in a statement. nearing its end, but his cryptic com- Dhoni’s participation has whipped up fe- groove because he’s going to play in the IPL tus as a national hero. He has amassed 10,773 The 22-yar-old has been ments and long absences from the verish discussion. “The question that needs and see how his body reacts.” runs from 350 ODIs, but his form dipped no- discharged from hospital and pitchF have kept fans guessing how he plans to be asked is of MSD himself,” said batting ticeably at last year’s World Cup. sent to the National Cricket to walk away. great Sunil Gavaskar last weekend, suggest- ‘FEELS LIKE A BREAK-UP’ Stellar performances from the likes of Academy in Bangalore for more The 38-year-old warhorse serves as an ing that the wicketkeeper-batsman’s long For cricket-obsessed India, Dhoni’s inter- Kohli, who passed 11,000 runs while India tests, the statement added. “His honorary lieutenant colonel in his army re- absence had already settled the matter. national retirement will be a moment to captain against Sri Lanka on Saturday, have availability for the final ODI will Pant made 28 in India’s 255 serve regiment and spent part of last year in “Does anybody keep himself away from rival the departure of batting icon Sachin started to eclipse the Dhoni legend. be based on how he responds before unbeaten centuries strife-torn Kashmir — missing an ODI tour playing for India for that long? That is the Tendulkar, who was similarly coy about his Kohli reached that mark in 196 innings, during the rehabilitation from David Warner and skipper of the West Indies. question and therein lies the answer.” plans in the lead-up to his farewell Test in while Dhoni made his fi gure from 324. protocol.” Pant walked back Aaron Finch gave Australia an He has now not appeared for club or Dhoni quit Test cricket in 2014 and na- 2013. But there seems to be little appetite to the pavilion after being easy win in 37.4 overs to take country in more than six months, since New tional coach Ravi Shastri said he would Shastri recently sent Indian social media among national cricket authorities to bring dismissed by Pat Cummins a 1-0 lead in the three-match Zealand beat India in the World Cup semi- likely soon quit one-day internationals, but users abuzz after saying that the constant the issue of Dhoni’s retirement to a head. following an attempted pull that series. The second match is fi nal, and he was left out of the three-match his imminent return to the Indian Premier speculation about Dhoni’s retirement “feels India’s new cricket chief Sourav Ganguly got the top edge of his bat and tomorrow in Rajkot with the one-day international series against Aus- League with the Chennai Super Kings could like a break-up... you know it’s coming and promised last year that seniors like Dhoni onto the helmet, the ball then series finale on Sunday in tralia which began on Tuesday. mean his international swansong is yet to it’s imminent but just don’t want to face (it)”. will be respected and that the country’s deflecting to point. Bangalore. AFP Dhoni hinted late last year he would not come. “I have had a conversation with MS In the cricketer’s absence, Indian selec- champions “don’t fi nish quickly”.

SPOTLIGHT COMMENT Aft er Mumbai spanking, Kohli De Villiers is keen to make a comeback, sees need to rethink batting order says du Plessis Reuters IANS new coaching staff was on New Delhi Kohli named captain Port Elizabeth board.” “It was a process of what of ICC’s ODI and Test does the next year look like ndia captain Virat Kohli teams of the year outh Africa skipper in terms of T20 cricket,” he acknowledged the need to Faf du Plessis yester- added. rethink the team’s batting India skipper and batting day hinted that bat- The South Africa skip- order after being steam- mainstay Virat Kohli was ting great AB de Vil- per said that de Villiers too Irolled by Australia in Mumbai liersS could possibly return wants to make a comeback, yesterday named captain on Tuesday, but said there was of the International Cricket to the national side ahead of however, the time was not no cause to panic after losing the Council’s ODI and Test teams the World T20, scheduled to yet known to him. fi rst one-day international of a of the year, capping off a be held in Australia later this “How many games, where, three-match series. memorable season for the year. when, what? And then try to India were subjected to a world No. 1. A few days back de Villiers, unfold that in a way that he 10-wicket thrashing for only Apart from Kohli, there were who retired from all forms of can come back. He’s keen the fi fth time in their history af- four other Indians who were international cricket in 2018, to come back. I don’t know ter scoring a modest 255, a total picked in the ICC’s Test and arrived in Australia to make when,” said du Plessis. overhauled by Australia in the ODI Teams of the Year. his debut in the Big Bash “In an ideal world, we 38th over. While the Test team featured League (BBL) and said he was would like to make sure we India packed three openers in double-centurion Mayank keen to make a return. can play our best 11, 12, 13 their playing XI in a bid to give Agarwal, opener Rohit De Villiers had tried to players for a few games or more game-time to in-form Sharma, speedster Mohamed come out of it ahead of the in a few series leading up to players, rejigging the top order Shami and left-arm spinner 2019 World Cup, making a T20 World Cup,” he added. with Kohli dropping down to Kuldeep Yadav found a place himself available for selec- In 78 T20Is, de Villers has number four to accommodate in the ODI side. tion. However, Cricket South so far scored 1672 runs, av- KL Rahul at three, but the plan Kohli enjoyed a tremendous Africa (CSA) selectors felt it eraging 26.12 with a strike came unstuck against a fi red- think it’s quite gone our way wickets, including Kohli, for 30 one template and just follow it run in both the formats in was too late. rate of 135.16. He had last up Australian attack. “Because whenever I’ve batted number runs before being bowled out in non-stop. I think people need 2019. Speaking on the eve of featured in a T20I con- of the way KL has been batting, four, so we’ll probably have to the fi nal over. to relax and not panic with one The 31-year-old hit his South Africa’s third Test test against Bangladesh at we have tried to fi t him in the rethink about that one.” “All in all it’s about giving game, I’m allowed to experi- seventh Test double hundred against England, du Plessis Potchefstroom on October batting line-up,” Kohli told Star Rohit Sharma made 10, while some guys opportunities and ment a little bit and fail as well at on the way to a career-best said: “It’s the same as what I 29, 2017. Sports about his batting position fellow opener Shikhar Dhawan you’ll never know if this works or times. You lose games here and unbeaten 254 against South mentioned before. We spoke De Villiers is currently at the Wankhede Stadium. forged a century-partnership not if you don’t try,” Kohli said. there but today was one of the Africa in October last year. and I was very keen to have playing in Australia’s Big “Having said that, I don’t with Rahul before India lost four “It’s very easy to just go with days where it didn’t come off .” him back even before the Bash League. Gulf Times Thursday, January 16, 2020 5 SPORT

NBA NHL Nelson scores twice as Islanders Bucks cruise past pound Red Wings

Reuters hackl, whose attempt hit the Los Angeles post. The puck then caromed to Bailey, who stuff ed it into the net. rock Nelson scored Nelson’s fi rst goal of the Knicks while Jazz twice, and the host game ended Howard’s night New York Islanders at 7:56. Detroit defenseman racked up a season Mike Green fell down while highB in goals while cruising to trying to retrieve the puck be- an 8-2 victory over the Detroit hind his net. Beauvillier took it Red Wings on Tuesday. away and passed it to Nelson, Jordan Eberle, a 10-year who one-timed it from the veteran, reached the 500-ca- right side. Hronek put Detroit win 10th straight reer-point mark with a goal on the board at 11:45 with a and an assist as the ‘I’M JUST TRYING TO DO MY JOB, JUST TRYING TO BE AGGRESSIVE, MAKE PLAYS’ Islanders snapped a two-game losing RESULTS streak. Buff alo 4-2 Las Vega The eight goals Columbus 3-0 Boston were the most in a game for the Island- NY Islanders 8-2 Detroit ers in nearly four Pittsburgh 7-3 Minnesota years, since an 8-1 Tampa Bay 4-3 Los Angeles victory over Edmon- ton on Feb. 7, 2016. Toronto 7-4 New Jersey Defenseman Noah Chicago 3-2 Ottawa Dobson scored his Winnipeg 4-0 Vancouver fi rst NHL goal, and Leo Komarov tal- Arizona 6-3 San Jose lied his fi rst goal this Dallas 3-2 Colorado season. Josh Bailey, Edmonton 4-2 Nashville Anders Lee and An- thony Beauvillier also scored for the Islanders, shot from the point that de- while Thomas Greiss made 34 fl ected off a stick. Lee scored saves in the easy win. his 14th goal at 18:30 with a Detroit’s starting goal- shot from the left side past tender, Jimmy Howard, was Howard’s replacement, Calvin pulled after giving up three Pickard. Mathew Barzal set up goals in the fi rst eight minutes. the play, and Eberle was cred- The Red Wings allowed their ited with the second assist. highest goal total since an 8-1 The Islanders scored twice loss against Montreal on Feb. in the fi rst three minutes of 26, 2019. Givani Smith scored the second period. Nelson was his fi rst NHL goal for Detroit. penalized for cross-checking Filip Hronek also scored for in the closing seconds of the the Red Wings, who lost for opening period. When he the 10th time in 13 games. came out of the box, he had a The Islanders bounced back breakaway and beat Pickard from a 6-2 loss to the New through the fi ve-hole at 1:59. York Rangers on Monday by Dobson then fl ipped a shot racing to a 4-1 lead after one from the right boards through period. Eberle scored 3:23 into traffi c to beat Pickard just 41 the game, beating Howard seconds later to make it 6-1. through the fi ve-hole. Beauvillier scored on a redi- Bailey scored his ninth goal rect at 5:12 of the third period. on a second rebound just 36 Komarov made it 8-1 at 9:07 seconds after Eberle’s goal. before Smith’s goal for the Red Michael Dal Colle took a Wings with six minutes re- shot from the left circle that maining. Howard stopped. The re- Pickard stopped 14 of the 19 Brooklyn Nets’ Kyrie Irving (centre) attempts to dribble through Utah Jazz’ Rayjon Tucker (left) and Tony Bradley during the first half at Barclays Center. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports bound came to Tom Kuhn- shots he faced.

AFP guard Joe Inglis scored a career-high 27 shots from the fi eld, three of four from RESULTS Los Angeles points and Rudy Gobert added 22 points three-point range, as the Grizzlies with- and 18 rebounds for the Jazz, who im- stood a 41-point performance from Rock- LA Clippers 128-103 Cleveland proved to 28-12 and are fi ve games behind ets star James Harden to win the back- BA Most Valuable Player Gian- Atlanta 123-110 Phoenix the Los Angeles Lakers for top spot in the and-forth battle. “I was just hungry, nis Antetokounmpo scored 37 Utah 118-107 Brooklyn Western Conference. man,” Morant said. “We needed this win.” points and the Milwaukee Bucks Ingles hit 10 of 14 shots and made six Eric Gordon added 23 points for the Memphis 121-110 Houston improved their league-leading of eight from beyond the arc, tying his Rockets, who were without a resting Rus- Nrecord with a 128-102 romp past the New Milwaukee 128-102 New York career-high for fi eld goals. sell Westbrook. York Knicks on Tuesday. Donovan Mitchell tallied 25 points — 14 There was another painful defeat for Antetokounmpo was ruthless in leading us,” he said of a Bucks team on pace for a of them in the fourth quarter. the once-mighty Golden State Warriors, the 36-6 Bucks to a fourth straight vic- 70-win season. “The focus of the guys is Kyrie Irving, playing his second game who saw reserve guard Jacob Evans go tory, connecting on 12 of 17 shots and 10 impressive.” since missing nearly two months with down hard after taking an inadvertent el- of 12 from the free throw line while grab- Kawhi Leonard impressed in Los Ange- a shoulder injury, led all scorers with 32 bow to the face. bing nine rebounds with four assists and a les, scoring 43 points in less than 29 min- points and dished out 11 assists, but the Dwight Powell scored 21 points and blocked shot. utes on court to lead the Clippers to a 128- Nets were unable to win a third straight Luka Doncic added 20 to lead the visit- He did it all in just over 21 minutes on 103 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. game. The Jazz won their 15th game in ing Dallas Mavericks to a 124-97 victory the court as the Bucks, who never trailed The Clippers led by as many as 36 points their last 16. Sitting at 13-11 on December over the Warriors — who lost their ninth and led by as many as 35, turned things on the way to their 28th win of the season. 9, the Jazz have since averaged more than straight. Powell caught Evans with an el- over to their reserves in the fourth quarter. Leonard scored 14 points in the second 115 points per game while shooting 50% bow in the second quarter as Evans tried “I’m just trying to do my job, just trying quarter as the Clippers pulled away. He from the fi eld. to challenge a lob to the Dallas big man. to be aggressive, make plays,” Antetok- connected on 14 of 22 shots from the fl oor “Obviously we’re on the right track and After lying on the court for several min- ounmpo said. The victory was the Eastern with six three-pointers before sitting out it’s fun to play at the moment,” Ingles said. utes Evans was helped off the court and Conference-leading Bucks’ 13th of the the entire fourth quarter. The Memphis Grizzlies could say the the Warriors said he was taken to hospital season by 20 or more points. Coach Mike same after beating the Houston Rockets for medical evaluation. Budenholzer was pleased to see the Bucks JAZZ HOT 121-110 for their sixth straight win. It was one more injury for a Warriors maintain their focus against the lowly The Utah Jazz continued to roll in the Rookie point guard Ja Morant scored team already trying to make do without Brock Nelson (behind) of the New York Islanders reacts after Knicks, who dropped their sixth straight. right direction with a 10th straight win — 26 points and handed out eight assists injured stars Klay Thompson and Stephen scoring on Jimmy Howard of the Detroit Red Wings at NYCB “The way we came out it’s a good sign for 118-107 over the Nets in Brooklyn. Aussie for Memphis. Morant drained 10 of his 11 Curry. Live’s Nassau Coliseum on Tuesday. (AFP)

NFL Panthers’ linebacker Kuechly retires at 28 Reuters 2013-15. The run culminated with Texans defensive end J.J. Watt. Los Angeles the team’s league-best 15-1 record In the Super Bowl era, only Hall and an NFC title in 2015, with the of Famer Lawrence Taylor (seven) Panthers eventually losing to the earned more fi rst-team All-Pro se- even-time Pro Bowl line- Denver Broncos in Super Bowl 50. lections in his fi rst eight seasons backer Luke Kuechly, the Kuechly was a tackling savant than Kuechly, who in 2013 also be- NFL’s most prolifi c tack- upon his arrival into the league, came the fi rst player since Taylor ler since being drafted by leading the NFL with 164 tackles in to win Defensive ROY honours and theS Carolina Panthers in 2012, an- his rookie season as he was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year nounced his retirement from his NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. honours in consecutive seasons. playing career on Tuesday at age 28. He also topped all players in tackles While he started and played in Kuechly, who has been the heart two seasons later in 2014 with 153, 118 of a possible 128 regular-season of the Carolina defense since the and ends his career with more tack- games over his career, and missed team selected him with the No. 9 les than anyone since his 2012 sea- just one game over the past three overall pick nearly eight years ago, son debut (1,092). seasons, he was known to play stunned the NFL world by revealing “While I wish we could have him through several injuries. He missed his decision in an extended state- for many more years, he has done six games in the 2016 season due to ment on the Panthers website. everything the right way and we re- eff ects from a concussion. “I think now is the right chance spect the decision that he’s made,” “In my heart I know it’s the right for me to move on,” Kuechly said. “It Panthers owner David Tepper said. thing to do.... There’s only one way makes me sad because I love playing “Luke is a once-in-a-generation to play this game since I was a lit- this game, I’ve played it since I was player and someone we want every tle kid — play fast, play physical a kid. It’s my favourite thing in the member of this organisation to em- and play strong. And at this point world to do. The memories I have ulate.” I don’t know if I am able to do that from this place and this organisation Kuechly earned Pro Bowl se- anymore.” and being on the fi eld with these lections in every season except Kuechly joins a group of recent guys — they’ll never go away.” his rookie campaign, and his five NFL stars to call it quits in recent The former Boston College star first-team All-Pro nods since 2012 years before turning 30, including immediately became a hit at middle ranked tied for first with Los An- former Indianapolis Colts quar- linebacker with the Panthers, help- geles Rams defensive tackle Aaron terback Andrew Luck and ex-New File photo of Carolina Panthers ing steer the team to three consecu- Donald, Seattle Seahawks line- England Patriots tight end Rob linebacker Luke Kuechly. (TNS) tive NFC South division titles from backer Bobby Wagner and Houston Gronkowski. Gulf Times 6 Thursday, January 16, 2020 SPORT

GOLF LPGA Record purses for women, but Open champion disparity remains

Reuters part of the women’s game. It’s Los Angeles going to be my 11th year on the LPGA Tour and I feel each and every year it’s getting better.” he LPGA Tour sea- Swede Lindberg is part of Lowry ready for son kicks off today, an elite 26-woman fi eld at the launching a year which Tournament of Champions at will see the world’s the Four Seasons Club in Or- Tbest women golfers compete lando this week. for $75mn in prize money — The fi eld is restricted to a record but still a pittance winners over the last two compared to what their male years, and Lindberg qualifi ed counterparts will play for on with her victory in the ANA another big year the PGA Tour. Inspiration major early in The LPGA purses — an av- 2018. ‘Anybody who plays this game knows that a lot of form is built on confidence’ erage of more than $2mn per Her form took a dip last event over the 33 offi cial- year as she made only 12 cuts money tournaments — are in 24 starts and earned barely nothing to scoff at, even if they $100,000, hardly enough to are not comparable to the men. cover expenses. Total prize money on the She will need to improve PGA Tour will be more than sharply this season in order to $400mn, including bonus be one of the two Swedes who money for the season-long Fe- likely will qualify for the Tokyo dEx Cup points race. Olympics. LPGA commissioner Mike “These next fi ve or six Whan has long been sanguine months are going to determine about the disparity, which he everything,” said Lindberg, says refl ects the higher televi- who has slipped to 160th in the sion ratings for men’s golf in Rolex world rankings. the United States. “A few of us are up for those And LPGA player Pernilla two spots. I feel I’m in a good Lindberg says the women’s position. For sure it’s a bit goal circuit nevertheless can only this year and something that focus on their own product. motivates me.” “We can only focus on what Lindberg thought her ANA we’re doing and we’re increas- Inspiration victory would ing our purses but as we’re lead to ever bigger things, but increasing them, the guys are found out that golf does not still running away from us,” always work that way. Lindberg, a member of the “Last year there was a lot of LPGA Player Board, said in a searching,” she said. “When I telephone interview on Tues- didn’t feel good over the ball day. I got frustrated and started “We’re doing our part trying searching for diff erent things to catch up but they’re mov- all the time. ing further ahead which in one “I thought I had things fi g- way is sad but I’m happy with ured out but fell into some the purses we (have) and we’re old tendencies with my swing for sure going in the right di- again. rection. “Now I know what to stick Shane Lowry with “It is such a good time to be to and work on on the range.” the Claret Jug after winning the Open Championship at Royal Teen star Rees-Zammit named in Wales squad Portrush last July. Cardiff : Teenager Louis championship. Rees-Zammit’s eye-catching Tompkins, 24, qualifies for season with Premiership side Wales through a Welsh grand- Gloucester has earned him a mother. The other uncapped AFP fi nished second in the Hong Kong Open planned to pick and choose events to give 10 Tommy Fleetwood for the fi rst two call-up to holders Wales Six players are Sale Sharks prop Abu Dhabi last week. himself the best chance. rounds. They tee off at 7:40am on Thurs- Nations squad who embark WillGriff John, Wasps lock Will “It was obviously my best year-to- “I don’t write my goals down. I have day (0340 GMT). on their first campaign under Rowlands and Scarlets’ New date. I couldn’t really envisage what hap- it in my head what I want to achieve this Meanwhile, Spain’s world number 41 Wayne Pivac. Zealand-born wing Johnny hane Lowry enjoyed an excep- pened given my form coming into Abu year, and the main thing for me is to make and 2017 Masters champion Sergio Gar- Rees-Zammit, 18, is one of five McNicholl. tional season last year which was Dhabi. It is a really, really diffi cult tourna- that Ryder Cup team, and I’ve kind of set cia revealed he had severed his two-year- uncapped players Pivac has Pivac, who replaced fellow kickstarted by his early win at the ment to win, and it obviously kick-start- my schedule and everything out to do old relationship with club manufacturers selected in the 38-man squad New Zealander Warren Gat- Abu Dhabi Championship in Jan- ed an unbelievable season,” said Lowry. that. Callaway. that begin their defence of the land as head coach after the Suary and the popular Irishman is hoping “There’s no doubt that it had a posi- “My schedule is pretty much similar to “Unfortunately, our relationship with Grand Slam at home to Italy latter stepped down following for more of the same in 2020. tive impact on my life and my career, and what I played last year. I think I need to Callaway didn’t go any farther. So, at the on February 1. Rees-Zammit s highly successful 12-year The defending champion went on to mentally my attitude going forward. It’s really look at and pick courses that suit moment, I’m a free agent. I’m playing on Monday had been awarded tenure, has also recalled win his fi rst major championship, the hard to probably put your fi nger on how me and that I’ve done well on in the past whatever I feel that’s best for me,” said a long-term contract by scrum-half Rhys Webb. British Open at Royal Portrush in July, much of an infl uence it had on my season, and make sure I go back there. Garcia. Gloucester for whom earlier Webb last played Test rugby and climbed from 75th in the offi cial but obviously it did. “I am playing a lot of golf, and I don’t “There are no hard feelings for both this season the wing became just over two years ago before world golf ranking to his current position “Anybody who plays this game knows have that many breaks, but you know, sides and these things happen. At the the youngest ever Premiership joining French club Toulon and of 19th. that a lot of form is built on confi dence, that’s just the way this season is. I’m not end of the day, what I want to do is go out hat-trick scorer. ruling himself out of Wales The 32-year-old has already shown he and that’s what I gained from here last adding anything. Obviously, when I play, there and enjoy what I do, try to do it to Pivac has called up England- contention because he did not means business this year — there were year.” I’m going to have to play well.” the best of my ability, and they are trying born Saracens centre Nick meet the minimum 60-cap pictures on social media of blisters on his Lowry said his main goal for the year Lowry has been paired with world to get the best equipment they can get. Tompkins, who was a member selection criteria for players hands as he put in 13-hour stints in the would be to get into the Olympics and number one Brooks Koepka and the two- “Unfortunately, just it wasn’t the fi t of the England Under-20 plying their trade outside the range and gym in the new year — and he the European Ryder Cup team, and he time Abu Dhabi champion and world No. that we thought it would be for me.” side that won the 2014 world country.

SPOTLIGHT RUGBY Iran tension ‘not an issue’, Stuart Hogg named Scotland captain says comeback kid Koepka for Six Nations AFP third start and winning the US Abu Dhabi Open after six weeks back. Asked if he had more mo- tivation and expected similar orld number one results in his latest comeback, Brooks Koepka Koepka said: “I don’t know if admits he was un- it gives me more motivation. I sure about playing don’t think it does. Wthe $7mn Abu Dhabi Champi- “I think when you have onship this week, but not be- something you love and it’s cause of heightened political taken away from you, it makes tensions in the Middle East. you appreciate it more and re- The 29-year-old American ally enjoy being out here. AFP John Barclay for the World was more unsettled by the in- “But I’m excited. I’m just Edinburgh Cup in Japan. jury to his left knee that re- excited to hit balls. There is But the Edinburgh hooker quired stem cell treatment and an enthusiasm to get out there had a disappointing tourna- has kept him out of competi- and play.” tuart Hogg has been ment and was left out of the tive golf for over three months. Koepka, who finished tied appointed as the new starting line-up as the Dark Asked ahead of today’s start ninth in the tournament last Scotland captain for Blues saw their hopes of whether his appearance in Abu year, headlines a stellar field Sthe Six Nations, the reaching the quarter-fi nals Dhabi was in doubt follow- for the first Rolex Series event Scottish Rugby Union an- evaporate with defeat to the ing the killing of Iranian com- of the European Tour season. nounced yesterday. hosts in their fi nal pool match. mander Qasem Soleimani in a Also in the field are his US The Exeter full-back takes Laidlaw and Barclay have US drone attack, Koepka said: compatriots, world number over from Stuart McInally, since announced their retire- “It was not an issue. It was fine six Patrick Cantlay and 16th- who led the team out dur- ments from international ac- and I am happy to be here.” ranked Bryson DeChambeau. ing last year’s disappointing tion. However, the rehabilitation The reigning British Open World Cup campaign. “Stuart is very passionate process of his damaged knee champion Shane Lowry is With 72 caps Hogg is the about playing for Scotland was different. the defending champion and most experienced player in and he’s determined to do “I’ve been worried about my comes off a good week in Hong the 38-man squad named all he can to improve Scot- knee,” he said. Kong, where he finished sec- by Gregor Townsend for this land,” said head coach Gregor “Just honestly, thinking ond. year’s championship, which Townsend. about trying to play, trying to balls just before Christmas and could get back here and do this In early 2018, he took a 17- Koepka has been paired with starts for Scotland with a trip “He really cares about play- get over here for this. I don’t “everything felt good”. and finally play.” week break after a wrist in- two-time Abu Dhabi champion to Dublin on February 1. ing for his country, what the want to say this, but it was kind “From that moment on, after It was a second long lay-off jury. He came back in stunning and world number 10 Tommy McInally was given the jersey represents and also get- of up in the air. a couple days of hitting balls for the four-time major cham- fashion, finishing second in the Fleetwood and Lowry for the armband ahead of former ting the best out of his team- He said he started hitting and not feeling pain, I knew I pion in the past couple of years. Fort Worth Invitational in his first two rounds. skippers Greig Laidlaw and mates.” Gulf Times Thursday, January 16, 2020 7 TENNIS

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Lopez doubles up to oust Auckland top Federer eyeing seed Fognini

AFP against Leonardo Mayer in which Auckland, New Zealand the second set tie-break went to 20-18, was then beaten by French- man Ugo Humbert 6-1, 6-4. eliciano Lopez, playing Andreas Seppi of Italy beat another miracle in his second match of the seventh seed Adrian Mannarino day, knocked top seed (FRA x7) in three sets before go- and world number 12 Fa- ing down to Kyle Edmund 6-3, ‘I had two incredible years in bioF Fognini out of the ATP Auck- 7-6 (7/4). land Classic yesterday to advance Edmund will play two-time 2017 and 2018 when I won to the quarter-fi nals. Auckland champion Isner in the Third-seed Karen Khachanov quarter-fi nals after Isner, who there... It’s not that long ago...’ was also eliminated, losing to had a fi rst-round bye, opened his Melbourne Australian John Millman while campaign with a three-set win the second and fourth seeds, over defending titleholder Ten- Reuters Denis Shapovalov and John Isner, nys Sandgren. Melbourne, Australia went through to the fi nal eight. Tournament fourth-seed Isner The 38-year-old Lopez, the won 7-6 (3), 6-7 (1), 6-3, pulling oldest player in the tournament away in the deciding set with the oger Federer continues and one of several players forced fi rst service break of the match to defy the ageing proc- to double up following the rain when Sandgren faltered at 2-2. ess but even the great disruption the previous day, Until then, the pair had only Swiss will know the played three sets in each match been separated by tie breaks with windowR of opportunity to add to and spent four hours 25 minutes Isner taking their previous en- his Grand Slam haul is growing on court. counter in Stockholm two years narrower every passing month. He began the day beating Pa- ago in three tie-break sets. Yet when the 38-year-old blo Andujar 3-6, 7-6 (4), 6-4 and “I feel good about that,” Is- begins his 21st Australian Open after a three-hour rest, he came ner said of fi nding a way around campaign next week only the from behind to beat Fognini 3-6, Sandgren’s serve and dishing up foolhardy would write off his 6-4, 6-3. 16 aces of his own. chances of another Melbourne The 61st ranked Lopez believes After losing all three of his miracle. the rain delay did him a favour. matches last week at the ATP Federer is bidding for a sev- “The fi rst match was tough Cup in Australia, Isner was re- enth Australian Open title and but I honestly think it was very lieved to register a win. a record-extending 21st Grand helpful for me (before playing) “The freshest memory I have Slam trophy but will require a against Fabio,” Lopez said. right now is winning and playing near-perfect fortnight and a “It was my fi rst match this year, a good third set, so I have to use slice of fortune to achieve it. it was two and a half hours on the that to gain momentum going His path is littered with ob- court so that was very helpful forward,” he said. stacles, some more familiar than for me and without that match, I “I won a tiebreaker, he won a others. Champion Novak Djoko- don’t think I could have played the tiebreaker, there wasn’t much vic, fresh from leading Serbia to way I did against Fabio.” separating us at all. the ATP Cup title, will loom over Lopez will face Poland’s Hu- “Eventually I played a good the draw while world number bert Hurkacz in the quarter- game at 2-2 in the third and was one Rafael Nadal arrives fi ght- fi nals after the sixth-seed put able to break and give myself ing fi t. away Mikael Ymer of Sweden some momentum. It’s a good Then there are the likes of 6-2, 7-6 (2). sign.” Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas and While Lopez found two In an all-Canada aff air, Shapo- Russian Daniil Medvedev, the matches benefi cial, two other valov beat Vasek Pospisil 6-4, leaders of a fearless next gen- players required to play twice 7-6 (2) while Millman dropped eration, both desperate and des- lost in the second round. the fi rst set against Khachanov tined to land a fi rst Grand Slam Italian Marco Cecchinato, before recovering to win 4-6, title. who won a three-hour marathon 6-3, 6-3. Unlike all of his rivals Federer, who last tasted Grand Slam glo- ry at the 2018 tournament Down Under, opted against playing Angry players speak out at for Switzerland at the ATP Cup, preferring to pack in some more Federer, Nadal kick in $170,000 for Australian bushfi re relief smoke-shrouded Australian family time before launching his Reuters farmland the size of Bulgaria. 22nd season. Melbourne, Australia Smoke from bushfires blanket- Open qualifi ers His last match was a defeat by ed Melbourne in a thick, grey Tsitsipas in the ATP Finals in No- haze on Wednesday before a Tempers flared at the Austral- vember. ennis greats Roger clearing rain-storm, disrupting ian Open qualifying yesterday Then again Federer usually hits Federer and Rafael Nadal the Australian Open’s qualifying as players battled through the ground running in Melbourne, Tpledged A$250,000 matches for a second succes- another day of smoky air and memorably three years ago when, ($172,000) towards the Austral- sive day. two of the game’s all-time after a six-month injury lay-off , ian bushfire relief eff orts at a The ATP on Sunday pledged greats were labelled “selfish” he beat Nadal in an epic fi nal to charity event yesterday in the $500,000 to the WWF Austral- for not protesting about the win the title. lead-up to the Australian Open. ian Wildlife and Nature Recov- conditions. In 2018 his fi rst offi cial tour- World number one Nadal ery Fund as part of the bushfire Tournament organisers have nament was the Australian Open made the announcement at relief eff orts. been under fire for ploughing and he won that too. Melbourne Park’s Rod Laver A number of players have made ahead with the qualifiers after “I had two incredible years in Arena during the “Rally for individual pledges including an initial delay on Tuesday. 2017 and 2018 when I won there,” Relief” event where top players American Williams who said The ill will spilled over into France’s Nicolas Mahut posted Federer said in the buildup. “It’s including Serena Williams and she would donate all her prize- yesterday, with Canadian world this picture on Instagram with not that long ago so it gives me Australian Open defending Roger Federer (left) and Nick Kyrgios (right) pose with firefighter money from winning a tourna- number 103 Brayden Schnur the caption ‘Ready for my first the belief I can do it again. champion Novak Djokovic led Alistair Mason as they and other top players play in the Rally for ment in Auckland on Sunday. taking aim at 20-times Grand round.’ (Instagram/nicomahut) “I’ve trained long and hard in fundraising eff orts. Relief charity tennis match in Melbourne yesterday. (AFP) Australian Nick Kyrgios has Slam champion Roger Federer the off -season and I didn’t have “Hopefully that will keep inspir- pledged A$200 for every ace and world number one Rafael for the sport — so those guys any setbacks, which is crucial.” ing the people to support this need,” Nadal said on court after record, with fires burning for he hits this month. Nadal for not taking a vocal need to step up.” terrible disaster that we’re an exhibition match. months and killing 28 people, The Australian Open, the first stand for the lower-profile play- Schnur said he felt “super dry- REALISTIC OPPORTUNITY going through and helps to Australia is experiencing one of destroying more than 2,500 Grand Slam of the year, starts in ers in qualifying. ness” in his throat and that con- Since beating Marin Cilic in the recover all the things that we its worst bushfire seasons on homes and razing forests and Melbourne on Monday. “It’s got to come from the top ditions were “100 percent not 2018 fi nal it has been a tale of guys — Roger and Rafa are normal”. “They’re just trying to ‘what might have been’ for Fe- a little bit selfish in thinking shove us on the court because derer. bourne courts suiting his game last eight. pared this year and that’s the big- draw appearance will put him about themselves and their we’re qualifiers.” He squandered two match down to a tee, Federer will view Former Australian Open gest problem for Fed. ahead of Lleyton Hewitt and if careers,” Schnur told Australian France’s Nicolas Mahut posted points against Djokovic in last the next fortnight as a realis- champion Mats Wilander does “But he won his most surpris- he wins three rounds he would Associated Press after winning a picture of himself wearing a year’s Wimbledon fi nal and tic opportunity to put a little not regard Federer as a favourite, ing Grand Slam in 17 and mira- reach the 100 mark for matches his qualifier against Austrian mask over his mouth and nose knows Nadal, with 19 Grand daylight between himself and but says he will be dangerous. cles still happen in Melbourne won at the tournament. Sebastian Ofner. with the caption: “Ready for my Slams, is now breathing down Nadal. “I think the Tsitsipas loss will for Roger.” The one record he will really “Because they’re near the end first round.” his neck in the race to end their Tsitsipas toppled him in the be a sour memory,” Wilander told Whatever happens the world care about though is to become and all they’re thinking about Canada’s Vasek Pospisil, a mem- respective careers with the most fourth round last year, after Reuters. “But the surface, being number three will almost cer- the oldest Grand Slam champion is their legacy and they’re not ber of the ATP Player Council, major silverware. Djokovic has 16. which he reached the semi- a bit quicker, makes his serve a tainly chalk up a few more mile- in the professional era — edging thinking about the sport itself tweeted: “It’s time for a players’ He will arrive refreshed fi nals at the French, the fi nal at weapon. The biggest problem is stones in Melbourne. out Ken Rosewall who won the and trying to do what’s good union. This is getting absurd.” though and with the fast Mel- Wimbledon and the US Open that Novak and Rafa are so pre- His 21st consecutive main 1972 Australian Open aged 37.

BOTTOMLINE Former champion Kerber suff ers Australian Open injury setback

AFP Yastremska kept calm during quarter-fi nal against Yastremska. Adelaide, Australia the delay, reading what she called Serena Williams returns to US Fed Cup team In men’s play, Russian Andrey “secret” notes. Rublev, who the Qatar Open at “I didn’t want to lose focus,” Serena Williams will return to the weekend, beat American Sam ngelique Kerber’s said the world number 24, who the United States Fed Cup team Querrey 6-3, 6-3 to move into a preparations for the has won three titles over the past for a qualifying event against last-eight clash against Britain’s opening Grand Slam two seasons. Latvia next month, the United Dan Evans. of the year were dealt Men’s second seed Felix Au- States Tennis Association said Rublev, who missed six weeks in aA blow yesterday when she was ger-Aliassime converted on the 2019 with a wrist injury, improved yesterday. forced to retire from the Adelaide fi rst of six match points, fi ring The 23-times Grand Slam win- to a perfect 5-0 for the season. “It’s International with back pain. a service winner to complete a ner, who will begin her quest important that I have mental con- The German former world 6-3, 7-6 (0) defeat of Australian to match Margaret Court’s fi dence,” he said. “One day you still number one, who won the Aus- James Duckworth. record of 24 singles titles at the can play so good, the other day can tralian Open in 2016, pulled out Australian Open next week, last be not that good. when behind 6-3, 2-0 in her sec- ‘HAD HIS CHANCES’ played for the US in February (From left) Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams and Novak Djokovic share Rublev’s win in Doha moved ond-round clash with Ukraine’s The 19-year-old Canadian set 2018 following the birth of her a lighter moment during a charity tennis match yesterday. (AFP) him up to number 18 in the world. Dayana Yastremska. up a quarter-fi nal against a sec- daughter. “It’s an amazing feeling to be The ninth seed began show- ond straight Aussie wild card, lo- fantastic tennis.” Williams’ presence in Everett, singles play and 3-2 in doubles 14-19 in Budapest. top 20 for the fi rst time, but there ing serious signs of the back cal Alex Bolt, who defeated Ger- Women’s top seed Ashleigh Washington for the Feb. 7-8 tie in Fed Cup competition since The US squad can feature as are still so many things that I can problem early in the second set man seventh seed Jan-Lennard Barty got a Thursday opponent as will be a huge boost for the US 1999. many as five players and the improve,” he said. then stopped after two points in Struff 6-3, 6-4. Marketa Vondrousova hammered with the 38-year-old having The winner advances to the final nominations must be made Fourth seed Pablo Carreno Bus- the third game on her own serve, “He pushed me to bring good Australia’s Arina Rodionova 6-0, posted a perfect mark of 13-0 in 2020 Fed Cup Finals from April by January 28. ta started with a 6-3, 6-2 defeat of calling for the trainer. shots when I needed them,” Auger- 6-0 in 52 minutes. Frenchman Jeremy Chardy. A medical evaluation on court Aliassime said of Duckworth. Second seed Simona Halep will narda Pera. 7-6 (6), 7-6 (4) winner over Julia Croat Donna Vekic rallied past South African qualifi er Lloyd ended with the 31-year-old world “He had chances in the sec- take on Aryna Sabalenka after the Swiss wild card Belinda Ben- Goerges and next plays Danielle Maria Sakkari of Greece 2-6, 7-5, Harris also advanced to the quar- number 18 calling it quits against ond set, but I got myself to the Belarussian booked her spot 7-6 cic, the fourth seed, struggled Collins, who put out seventh 6-1, winning in two hours and ters with a 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 win over her teenaged opponent. tiebreaker — from there I played (4), 6-2 over US qualifi er Ber- with frustration but emerged a seed Sofi a Kenin 6-3, 6-1. overcoming six aces to reach a Laslo Djere.

Thursday, January 16, 2020 GULF TIMES SPORT

FOCUS World No. 1 Barty tops list of stars for Qatar Total Open

By Sports Reporter No. 5 Elina Svitolina, World No. golden falcon trophy for the fi rst winning the French Open and lighted with the list of top play- Doha 6 and 2019 US Open champion time, eyes will also be on the four the WTA Finals, the Australian ers lined up for this year’s Qatar Bianca Andreescu, World No. 7 past champions featuring at this also won the Miami Open and the Total Open. That most of the Belinda Bencic, 2018 champion year’s tournament to see who will Birmingham Classic, and she was top-ten players are featuring at orld No. 1 and 2019 and World No. 8 Petra Kvitova be joining the elite group of two- the worthy recipient of the WTA the tournament is an indication French Open cham- and World No. 10 Kiki Bertens. time winners in Doha. Player of the Year award for 2019. of the importance of this tour- pion Ashleigh In all, a total of 64 players, Since the tournament began By winning the 2019 Finals, nament and we believe all the Barty tops the star- including four qualifi ers, will in 2001, only three players – Barty, a former cricketer, also fans will have a wonderful time studdedW list of players, compris- feature in the singles event of Anastasia Myskina (2003, 2004), became the second Australian to as they enjoy watching their fa- ing four former champions, lined the WTA Premier 5 tournament Maria Sharapova (2005, 2008) capture the WTA Finals crown vourite players doing what they up for the Qatar Total Open 2020 while 32 teams will slug it out in and Victoria Azarenka (2012, following 1974 and 1976 cham- know how to do best on the to be held from February 23-29 at the doubles. 2013) – have had the privilege of pion Evonne Goolagong Cawley, courts of Khalifa International the Khalifa International Tennis Aside from the top-ranked lifting the trophy on more than and the fi fth player to win the Tennis & Squash Complex come and Squash Complex in Doha. players, defending champion one occasion. tournament as a debutante. February 23.” This year’s event, the 18th edi- and 2019 US Open doubles win- Barty, whose $4.42 million The Ipswich, Queensland- Belgium’s Mertens won the tion, features eight of the world’s ner Elise Mertens is also making a earnings for winning the WTA born star, who had to withdraw 2019 edition after stunning Ha- top-ten players including 2017 return to Doha alongside former season-ending event in Shen- from last year’s event due to hip lep 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 in a thrilling champion and World No. 2 Karo- world No.1 Angelique Kerber, zhen is the largest amount of injury, will be hoping to continue encounter that lasted two hours lina Pliskova, and 2014 champion fi nalist in 2014, Garbine Mugu- prize money at a single men’s or her fi ne form and win her fi rst and 13 minutes to claim her fi rst- and World No. 4 Simona Halep. ruza, 2018 fi nalist, and Jelena 23-year-old Barty, who cap- ter winning the Shiseido WTA women’s tournament in tennis trophy in Doha this time around. ever WTA Premier-level crown, Also on the list are 2019 Wim- Ostapenko, the 2016 fi nalist. tured her third WTA Player of Finals Shenzhen and ending the history to date, has had a spec- Tournament Director Saad and the fi fth title of her career bledon semi-fi nalist and World While the focus will be on the the Month award in October af- season as World No.1, to hoist the tacular season in 2019. Besides al-Mohannadi said, “We are de- overall.

HORSE RACING EQUESTRIAN Al Shaqab rider Catch A Wave sprints al-Kuwari qualifi es for AEF U-21 to feature victory dressage fi nals

Jassim Ghazali saddles four winners, double for trainer Mohamed Nasser al-Naimi By Sports Reporter oured and proud to represent Doha Qatar in the fi nals of the 2nd Asian Equestrian Federation (AEF) U-21 Dressage Champion- assim Mohamed al-Ku- ship in Taiwan. The training and wari, a student rider of Al lessons I received from Al Shaqab Shaqab, member of Qatar has been key in facilitating this Foundation, has qualifi ed achievement. I look forward to toJ represent Qatar in the fi nals of performing confi dently at the the 2nd Asian Equestrian Federa- fi nals.” tion (AEF) U-21 Dressage Cham- A total of 16 fi nalists from pionship in Taipei. Scheduled for various NFs have qualifi ed for the April 2020, the fi nals of the Asian fi nals of the AEF U-21 Dressage championship will feature some Championship following their of the best young riders (under 21 performance in the qualifi ers, years old) from the participating which were held throughout the National Federations (NFs). season as part of the champi- Mohamed Sultan al-Suwaidi, onship. During the fi nals, par- Equine Education Department ticipants compete on borrowed Manager at Al Shaqab, said, “Jas- horses. The qualifi ers, held at sim Mohamed al-Kuwari learned various zones, are now in their to ride at Al Shaqab and has been 2nd year. They are organised by training with us since 2014. He the AEF which has its headquar- has been growing in his ability as ters in Doha. a rider and gaining skills, learn- Dressage is one of four Ol- ing to compete confi dently in ympic disciplines, and the U-21 international competitions. He is Dressage Championship is part very talented, and we are proud of AEF’s eff orts to promote the of his achievement.” dressage discipline amongst rid- QREC deputy chief steward Abdulla al-Kubaisi (right) presents the owner’s trophy Al-Kuwari said: “I feel hon- ers in the Asian region. to Hassan Ali al-Abdulmalik after Catch A Wave won the Umm Al Afai Cup at Al Rayyan Park yesterday. PICTURES: Juhaim Ryan Curatolo rides Catch A Wave to Umm Al Afai Cup victory yesterday.

By Sports Reporter winner’s circle for a second time race for four-year-old and older (Theo Bachelot), 3. Al Hisaar (JP by: 2 ½, ½, ¼ (Dh). Time: 1:51.83. Doha with champion jockey Harry fi llies and mares. Guillambert), 4. Vidiyni (Ryan Owner: Injaaz Stud. Trainer: Jas- Bentley guiding Jassim Moham- Ghazali’s son, Mohamed, sad- Curatolo). Won by: 7, ½, 1 ½. sim Mohamed Ghazali. ed Ghazali-trained Rassan to dled a winner too with Eduardo Time: 2:03.47. Owner: Al Azraq Race 7: 1. AJS Jamra (Ronan yan Curatolo rode Has- victory in the penultimate race Pedroza riding Al Azraq Sta- Stable. Trainer: Mohamed Jassim Thomas), 2. Zahwa (JP Guillam- san Ali al-Abdulmalik’s of the day — six-furlong Pure- ble’s Immoral to Thoroughbred Ghazali. bert), 3. Fahdah Al Naif (Theo Catch A Wave to the bred Arabian Conditions. Handicap event. Race 4: 1. Tadeem (Harry Bachelot), 4. Al Eshrah (Harry gelding’s fi rst victory The win capped a quadruple Bentley), 2. Hope Cove (Ryan Bentley). Won by: 2 ½, 2 ½, 1 ¾. sinceR November 2018 with the for the champion trainer with RESULTS Curatolo), 3. Lo De Nalane (Theo Time: 1:19.37. Owner: Al Jeryan Deborah Mountain ward bag- Bentley astride Mansoor Ebra- Race 1: 1. Al Junood (Theo Bachelot), 4. Bint Saff ian (Meteb Stud. Trainer: Mohamed Nasser ging the Umm Al Afai Cup yes- him al-Mahmoud’s Tadeem in a Bachelot), 2. Stam Al Naif (Adnan Ali al-Marri). Won by: 1 ½, No, ¼. al-Naimi. terday, a year after a huge disap- Thoroughbred Handicap event, Hawa), 3. Nashmir Brooq (Meteb Time: 1:12.33. Owner: Mansoor Race 8: 1. Rassan (Harry Bent- pointment in the feature. and Theo Bachelot guiding the Ali al-Marri), 4. Al Mahyoub (Car- Ebrahim al-Mahmoud. Trainer: ley), 2. Shabih Alreeh (Ronan On the dirt track at Al Rayyan other two winners — Khalifa bin los Henrique). Won by: 15, ½, 3 ¼. Jassim Mohamed Ghazali. Thomas), 3. Lekhraib (Theo Park, the six-year-old beat Car- Sheail al-Kuwari’s Al Junood in Time: 1:18.60. Owner: Khalifa bin Race 5: 1. Aneeq (Ryan Curatolo), Bachelot), 4. Kasser (Meteb los Henrique-ridden Zarandi by a Local Purebred Arabian Novice Sheail al-Kuwari. Trainer: Jassim 2. Aaila (Ronan Thomas), 3. Jah- Ali al-Marri). Won by: 1, 1, Shd. a little less than three lengths to Plate and Injaaz Stud’s Qate’e in Mohamed Ghazali. fal (Eduardo Pedroza), 4. Taysh Time: 1:18.47. Owner: Jassim bin win the 1100m Thoroughbred a Local Thoroughbred Handi- Race 2: 1. Rex Place (Ronan (Meteb Ali al-Marri). Won by: 1 ½, Ali al-Attiyah. Trainer: Jassim Handicap sprint feature. cap. Thomas), 2. Skip The Queue 2 ¼, 2 ¾. Time: 2:00.87. Owner: Mohamed Ghazali. It was the second winner of The owner-trainer-jockey (Carlos Henrique), 3. Al Mujahaz Jassim bin Ali al-Attiyah. Trainer: Race 9: 1. Catch A Wave (Ryan the day for Curatolo, who had trio of Al Jeryan Stud, Moham- (Theo Bachelot), 4. Shellbrook Ahmed Kobeissi. Curatolo), 2. Zarandi (Carlos earlier helmed Ahmed Kobeis- ed Nasser al-Naimi and Ronan (Harry Bentley). Won by: No, 5, Race 6: 1. Qate’e (Theo Bach- Henrique), 3. Midsummer Knight si-saddled Aneeq in a Purebred Thomas notched up a double ½. Time: 1:12.19. Owner: Al Jeryan elot), 2. Rawdat Al Khail (JP (JP Guillambert), 4. Nobel Arabian Handicap event in the with Rex Place shedding his Stud. Trainer: Mohamed Nasser Guillambert), 3. Majhool Al Masterpiece (Theo Bachelot). colours of Jassim bin Ali al- maiden status in a race for Thor- al-Naimi. Zaeem (Ivan Rossi), 4. Al Rayyan Won by: 2 ¾, No, ¼. Time: 1:04.34. Attiyah. oughbreds and AJS Jamra top- Race 3: 1. Immoral (Eduardo Park (Faleh Bughanaim), Sea Owner: Hassan Ali al-Abdulmalik. These colours returned to the ping the Local Purebred Arabian Pedroza), 2. Romantic Heart The Light (Ryan Curatolo). Won Trainer: Deborah Mountain.

FOOTBALL Elite training camps at Aspire Academy are a win for everyone

By Sports Reporter high right till the end. The whole Saeed Afi fa, who is a player of in 2017,” Ihattaren told the boys. Doha team approached the training Aspire Academy’s Football Pro- “I was impressed of this place camp in a very focused way, even gramme. back then and I am even more though the programme was pret- Besides watching the players impressed coming back with the hree years before the fi rst ty tough.” of teams such as Bayern Munich, fi rst team. The tournament was a ball is kicked at the 2022 In absence of top striker Rob- Club Brugge, KAS Eupen or PSV great experience for me, as I was FIFA World Cup Qatar, ert Lewandowski, the team’s Eindhoven from the stands dur- very young at the time and com- the country has estab- squad in Doha featured at lot of ing training sessions or in friend- peting in such a great environ- Tlished itself as a leading desti- young players that made their lies, Afi fa and fi ve of his team- ment was huge for me.” nation for international football mark in the team over the last mates even had the opportunity Maybe it was as an impressive stars. A major reason for the few months. Young players are to compare their skills with two experience as it was for young success is the incredible facili- also a big inspiration for the of PSV Eindhoven’s top play- Aspire Academy-student athlete ties and know-how that Aspire hundreds of Aspire Academy- ers. They faced former Dutch Ali al-Qahtani, who was one of Academy off ers top clubs that players training on the pitches international and 2010-11 UEFA the two Qatari players hitting the choose Doha for their winter next to Alaba, Kimmich or Boat- Champions League-winner with crossbar and securing his team training camps. In early 2020, eng. “Seeing players like them Barcelona, Ibrahim Aff elay, and a 2-0 win over the Dutch stars. some of Europe’s elite visited nity to see how serious stars like rua, Technical Football Director of their Bundesliga season. Head every year is just great. They 17-year-old Mohamed Amine “It’s been great,” al-Qahtani said the country for this reason and Neymar, Ibrahimovic or Neuer of Aspire Academy, explains the coach Hansi Flick described their are stars, but they are still very Ihattaren, a star on the rise, in a afterwards. “But I hope that I will provided the student-athletes of take their job and how they put in educational benefi t of the Elite 10th training camp in Qatar as a friendly when we run into them. crossbar challenge. be able to compete against these Aspire Academy with the unique a hundred percent in every train- Training Camps. huge success. “We are very satis- The intensity they show on the “It’s always great to share ex- kinds of players on a profes- opportunity to shadow some of ing session. We are happy about German champions Bayern fi ed,” the 54-year-old told media. pitch is something that needs a periences with young players and sional level in big leagues one day the world’s best players. this opportunity and we highly Munich returned to Doha in Jan- In addition to the “top condi- lot of training and passion and these boys are really talented,” and not just in a fun challenge. “Having some of the world’s appreciate it if some of the visit- uary 2020 for a week-long winter tions” on the Aspire Academy that’s a great motivation for me Aff elay praised the skills of Afi fa Therefore, I will give everything best teams here every year is a big ing teams take the time to share training camp looking to make grounds, Flick found words of to work hard every day, so I can and his teammates. “I remember I have, because there is nothing asset for our boys. Over the past some their experience with our the most of their time at Aspire praise for his players in particu- one day become a role model for with PSV at the Al Kass Inter- better to collect unique moments few years, they had the opportu- student-athletes,” Edorta Mu- in readiness for the second half lar: “The intensity was very, very young players like them,” said national Cup at Aspire Academy like this.”