Sport TUESDAY 15 DECEMBER 2020 In-form New Zealand sweep West Indies series to top Test rankings It does sound pretty cool. I didn’t realise that (of the rankings boost) until this morning. We have been playing some good cricket as of late in our conditions, and away for that matter, and it’s a pretty cool thing.

Tom Latham, New Zealand’s stand-in captain Sport |08

QNB STARS LEAGUE: YESTERDAY'S RESULTS 1-1 Umm Salal; Al Ahli 2-0 Al Kharaitiyat; Al Khor 1-0 Al Wakrah 2030 guarantees unprecedented Asian legacy

THE PENINSULA –

The Doha 2030 Bid Committee today released further details of Project Legacy 21 – a series of programmes thatwill begin from 2021 to meet the immediate and long-term needs of ’s National Olympic Committees (NOCs). Project Legacy 21 takes advantage of the unique oppor- tunity Doha has to share with Asia its significant experience and expertise, developed over the past two decades. With vir- tually all the necessary infra- structure to host the Asian Games already in place, Doha 2030 is able to focus its energy on guaranteeing Asia’s NOCs an unprecedented Asian Games The President of the Olympic Committee (QOC), H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani NOCs to invite 90 bright indi- legacy that lasts until 2030 and speaks with the President of the , Sheikh Ahmad Al Fahad Al , viduals of diverse Asian cultures beyond. during the latter's visit to the Doha Majlis in Muscat, , yesterday. The Second Vice- to take up a full scholarship in Project Legacy 21 will use President of the QOC, Dr Thani bin Abdulrahamn Al Kuwari, and QOC Secretary-General Qatar. investment legacy savings to Jassim Rashid Al Buenain are also seen. PICTURE: @AGDOHA2030  NOC Lectures and Work- create a programme, managed shops by the Aspetar Center of by the OCA and independently across Asia that draw from the benefits to all of Asia, starting strongest ever teams for an Asian culture and showcase the Excellence in all areas of sport audited, that provides financial proven experience of Aspire and from 2021. Games, overcome and build for friendship, unity, and harmony development and science. investment and knowledge best practice in those regions to “All Asian NOCs are facing a brighter future.” in the region.  Education and Training transfer for NOC development aid the development of elite challenges in our countries and Project Legacy 21 also com-  A Youth Camp open to through partnership with the programmes. It will also facil- sport. as an OCA family we have a prises a number of activation young people from each NOC Josoor Institute, the Qatar itate knowledge sharing focused Doha 2030 Chairman H E responsibility to offer help and programmes including: featuring a combination of sport, Olympic Academy and Qatar on elite sport development for Sheikh Joaan said: “The role that support to one another. Our bid’s  Training Camps in all the cultural and social activities. Foundation, offering education, NOCs and create tailored pro- the Asian Games can play in message is We All Belong and Olympic sports on the Doha Participants will have a role in training and professional certi- grammes for athletes to travel inspiring hope and celebrating we believe strongly that when 2030 programme giving athletes the Athletes’ Village during the fication in sport and event man- to and train at the multi-sport, our continent’s diversity is more one NOC succeeds, we all the opportunities and facilities Games helping to provide a agement to NOCs. state-of-the-art Aspire important now than ever than succeed. That is why we are they need to perform at their home-away-from-home feel  Athlete and Team sub- Academy. As part of Project ever before. Through Project ready to share all our time, best.  A Stars of Asia Programme sidies tosupport athletes by sub- Legacy 21, Doha 2030 will Legacy 21, we aim to leverage knowledge and infrastructure,  A Cultural Programme designed to develop future sidising accommodation and explore the opportunities of cre- Doha’s unique position and with our Asian brothers and three years prior to the Games ambassadors for sport in Asia by airline travel for eligible ating sub-regional training hubs deliver meaningful legacy sisters to help them prepare their which would combine sport and collaborating with all Asian athletes,as approved by the OCA. Sports stars back Doha's bid to stage the Asian Games again Doha 2030 vows magical show as OCA family braces to pick host city

THE PENINSULA – DOHA Athletes of Qatar parade ASIAN GAMES HOSTS during the Opening The Doha Bid Ceremony of the 15th Committee has pledged to  I 1951 New Asian Games Doha 2006 provide an experience of a  II 1954 at the Khalifa International lifetime should the Qatari capital Stadium in this December 1,  III 1958 be awarded the Asian Games in  2006, file photo. 2030 as the Olympic Council of  IV 1962 Asia (OCA) braces to pick a host  V 1966 city for the 2030 Asian Games  VI 1970 Bangkok at its 39th General Assembly in  VII 1974 Muscat, Oman tomorrow.  VIII 1978 Bangkok Doha 2030 Chairman H E  Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al IX 1982 Thani, also the President of  X 1986 (QOC)  XI 1990 is leading the Qatari delegation  XII 1994 in Muscat, which is apprising the  XIII 1998 Bangkok OCA family of a strong bid by  XIV 2002 Doha 2030 promising a ‘gateway  to excellence’.  XV 2006 Doha Doha, which hosted the  XVI 2010 – the biggest  XVII 2014 multi-sporting continental show  XVIII 2018 Jakarta- then - is competing for the Asian  XIX 2022 Games 2030 hosting right with  XX 2026 Aichi- ’s capital .  Doha is a multicultural city  XXI 2030 TBD – home to people from nearly 100 different countries – and an established international desti- Doha’s spellbinding Souqs. He added: “Doha 2030 sports infrastructure, as well as have supported Doha 2030 in always enjoy my experience nation which attracts millions of Doha 2030 Asian Games Bid would ensure that the special the sheer passion and its bid for the Asian Games. there. Doha has a best sports tourists each year. Doha 2030 Committee CEO and the Sec- moments the OCA family enjoy excitement to host our Asian ’s former British infrastructure like state-of- will draw from the city’s wealth retary General of QOC Jassim in 2030 would go beyond com- Games. Open squash champion Qamar the-art Aspire Academy. Qatar of history, culture and enter- Albuenain said yesterday: “Doha petitions and would be part of "We know that our Asian Zaman hoped Doha will get has an important position tainment, to ensure that every has the experience and expertise the everyday experiences of Games will be in very safe hands the hosting of the Asian when it comes to organising Games participant is made to to deliver Games services to the living in our magical and in 2030, and I would like to Games. mega sports events.” feel welcome in 2030 and that very highest standards. We can inclusive city.” thank the two bidding cities for “I am so pleased to hear ’s Canoing athlete their needs are catered for. guarantee world-class venues Ahead of the General their efforts and their that Qatar has bid for the 2030 Shahoo Nasseri said Doha The city’s beautiful, family- and training facilities, 5-star Assembly, OCA President, enthusiasm.” Asian Games. It is fantastic, 2030 will be a great event for friendly beach resorts and luxury accommodation and a seamless Sheikh Ahmad Al Fahad Al The vote will be conducted Doha has already organised the continent. spas will provide the perfect modern transport network, all Sabah said yesterday: “We are online, even for the NOCs who the 2006 Asian Games, which “I took part in the Asian place to relax and unwind away of which combine to ensure very fortunate to have two will attend the meeting at the JW were the best games. I wish Games 2006 and I must from competition. Doha’s mul- Asia’s athletes will be the stars excellent bids from two of the Marriott Hotel in Muscat, and the them good luck and best admit that the facilities titude of world-class shopping of our show. But Doha also offers greatest capital cities in the OCA has been conducting a wishes,” said Zaman. during the games were phe- malls offer visitors an array of so much more. It is a city where region. Our OCA Evaluation series of tests to familiarise the Lebanese trap shooter Ray nomenal. What I experienced high street and luxury brands as different cultures live side by Committee visited the two cities NOC delegates with the voting Bassil, winner of multiple there was amazing and as a well as a range of recreational side in harmony and friendship; in November and were very procedure. international events said: “I result I would be content if facilities; while those looking to where tradition meets impressed with the hosting Sports stars back Doha have been to Doha many times this competition happens in experience the heritage of tra- modernity and where nature plans, the dynamic programmes 2030 bid to compete in events. They Doha again in 2030,” said ditional Arab markets can visit meets human innovation.” in place and the world-class Meanwhile, top Asian stars have the best facilities and I Nasseri. TUESDAY 15 DECEMBER 2020 SPORT 11

This file photo shows the , site of the new World Cup venue at Al Rayyan.

The stadium construction begins in this file photo. Al Rayyan Venue: A stadium that tells the story of Qatar

THE PENINSULA – DOHA As one of Qatar’s most historic improvements reflected within the cities, Al Rayyan is known for its love Built on the site where Ahmed Bin Ali stadium’s legacy,” said Tweedie. Visually stunning and culturally of tradition and culture. And it was Stadium once stood, this spectacular “We had the privilege of attending important, Al Rayyan Venue is the those inspirations that Ramboll used 40,000-capacity venue will welcome the the last Al Rayyan home game, as VIP latest tournament venue to be in their design process for the guests, before the old stadium was unveiled for the FIFA World Cup stadium. The result is a venue that world in less than two years’ time, with the decommissioned – a game we are Qatar 2022 and one which tells the story of Qatar in a spectacular stadium slated to host seven matches during glad to report Al Rayyan won. This symbolises the dawn of a new era way. Qatar 2022 up to the round of 16 stage. created a bond between the club and for a proud, football-loving “Respecting the history of both Al the designers, which reminded us community. Rayyan and Qatar was an important during the various design stages that Built on the site where Ahmed design objective,” said Ramboll they also reflect historical patterns we were in fact designing the club’s Bin Ali Stadium once stood, this spec- Project Director, Alan Tweedie. “Our seen in Qatar that have their origin in new home, not just a venue for a four- tacular 40,000-capacity venue will stadium architect, Pattern Design, the international trade that lies behind week long tournament.” welcome the world in less than two spent considerable time at the con- Qatar’s economic success over the The sense of achievement in years’ time, with the stadium slated ceptual stage researching the history centuries. The shield pattern, asso- bringing Al Rayyan Venue to reality to host seven matches during Qatar and culture. This included investi- ciated with Al Rayyan itself, weaves is a milestone that will be shared 2022 up to the round of 16 stage. It gating the history of the Al Rayyan together all of the other patterns and proudly by all of the project’s stake- will be a particularly proud moment region itself. We ended up presenting represents loyalty, unity and holders, including Ramboll, who are for supporters of Al Rayyan Sports four conceptual options and the perseverance.” celebrating their 75th anniversary as Club, as they will have the oppor- chosen design was in the end a mix To fully incorporate the history a company this year. tunity to witness football’s showpiece of many attractive options within and traditions of the community in “One of the most exciting aspects event take place on their home turf. each of the distinct proposals.” the project, Ramboll also developed of a project like this is the ability to Before the World Cup rolls into Tweedie added: “One of the key a relationship with Al Rayyan Sports attend an event and experience the town, the Al Rayyan community will features of the final design is the five Club – which will occupy the venue reaction of the end users, who are in get their first glimpse of the stadium decorative patterns and shapes that in future – to ensure the legacy this case, the fans,” Tweedie said. when it plays host to Al Sadd and Al are found within the stadium façade aspect of the new stadium was “If they attend an event and are Arabi in this year’s Amir Cup final on and around the precinct. These pat- properly planned. enthusiastic about the event and the 18 December. The venue will become terns acknowledge the importance “We spent time with Al Rayyan project, then this is something to be the fourth Qatar 2022 stadium to of family in Qatari culture, they reflect SC in order to understand how they excited about. This means you have open following Khalifa International, patterns associated with the desert operated, what worked well for them succeeded in one of your primary Al Janoub and Education City. and wildlife that thrives there, and and where they would like to see objectives.”

percent of recycled materials from the old stadium have been actually put There will be a brief into the existing stadium,” Al Nuaimi inauguration officially Qatar ready said. “You can see the development at announcing that the World this area. Just next to the stadium, you Cup stadium is ready. will see there is a green park sur- Hopefully, the FIFA rounding it. The metro is fully opera- to inaugurate tional and it will help people access President, UEFA President the stadium easily. The roads and and the AFC President who expressway have opened. Also there will also be attending the is a massive shopping mall next to it. “You can see that the area sur- next day’s AFC Champions fourth World rounding the stadium has really League final, will be here to developed. After the World Cup, the upper tier of the stadium will be taken attend the event together: out. Some 20,000 seats will be taken Fatma Al Nuaimi down and donated to other countries. Cup stadium The development of the area has helped accelerate the plans of the Qatar National Vision 2030 from a CHINTHANA WASALA Executive Communications Director before the final, there will be cultural Al Nuaimi, who has witnessed the transport perspective. THE PENINSULA of the Supreme Committee for and community activities for people progress of Qatar’s World Cup venues “From actually making it easily Delivery & Legacy (SC), yesterday said to enjoy. This will be done to from scratch, said the new stadium is accessible to people, it will not only Qatar’s fourth World Cup stadium will the inauguration of the venue will be encourage fans to come ahead of time a short distance from the Education enhance the fan experience during the be declared open in less than three remembered for long. and enjoy the festivities. An enjoyable City Stadium. World Cup, but also leave a legacy for days. And it will be inaugurated with “I think it would be like a night to atmosphere will be there for families “The stadium is just five minutes the community,” Al Nuaimi explained. fanfare. remember especially with spectators coming to the stadium considering the away from the , “When I first visited the completed The entire football family will be being allowed to attend the final by Amir Cup final is on a Friday. It will be which again showcases the compact stadium, I felt really proud,” Al Nuaimi in for a treat on Friday when the brand the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH). like a fan zone,” Al Nuaimi said. nature of Qatar 2022 World Cup in recalled. new FIFA World Cup venue at Al The excitement of football is gradually Al Nuaimi said a host of VIPs are which people will be able to attend “From the time it was a con- Rayyan will be declared open in front now coming back to our venues,” Al expected to join the inauguration cer- more than one match in a day,” she struction site, we have been doing all of a host of dignitaries on Qatar’s Nuaimi said during an online dis- emony at the 40,000-seat venue. said. of these visits and now that the National Day. cussion hosted by the SC yesterday. “There will be a brief inauguration “Before starting work on the new stadium is ready. Now we’re getting The inauguration will take place Qatar, one of few countries to officially announcing that the World venue, we looked at a study from an the chance to celebrate it with an just before the kick off of the 2020 allow fans at stadiums in the time of Cup stadium is ready. Hopefully, the engineering perspective to decide actual tournament. My feelings are Amir Cup final between Al Sadd and COVID-19, will welcome 50 percent FIFA President, UEFA President and whether to renovate the existing indescribable. I get emotional when I Al Arabi, marking a historic day for of the total capacity of the new venue the AFC President who will also be stadium or actually to take it down and think of the construction days and the football-loving country. at Al Rayyan for the blockbuster final attending the next day’s AFC Cham- built it from scratch. After detailed dis- now, seeing the venue ready and com- Fatma Al Nuaimi (pictured above), with all necessary preventive safety pions League final, will be here to cussions, we realised it’s better to build pleted,” she said. measures in place. attend the event together,” Al Nuaimi the stadium on a sustainable model, “During the World Cup, when we “Three hours said. which would be more efficient. Ninety host a million fans, it will be an oppor- tunity for us to tell our story and showcase our hospitality. It will be the first world Cup in the Arab world, the first time in the Middle East and second time in Asia. I think there is so much that the world will be seeing when they come here,” Al Nuaimi said. 10 SPORT TUESDAY 15 DECEMBER 2020

QFA hands over fourth and final Mattias Ekstrom part of Asian Cup 2027 bid file

THE PENINSULA — DOHA our bid file shows that Qatar is determined to stage the AFC The Qatar Football Association Asian Cup 2027 in a manner (QFA) yesterday handed over that reflects the high standards the fourth and final part of the we uphold when staging top AFC Asian Cup 2027 bid file. international sports events on Hail Baja 2 The 20 original bid book docu- our soil. The AFC Asian Cup ments were handed over by H 2027 will be no exception.” E Ambassador of the State of “We have worked tire- to kick off Qatar to the Kingdom of lessly to prepare a compre- Fahd bin Mohammed hensive bid file that meets all Kafoud. hosting criteria through coor- with Baqqa This concluding part of the dination with all authorities in file – handed over according the country. We extend our loop stage to the schedule approved by sincere thanks and appreci- the AFC – includes all obliga- ation to the authorities for the THE PENINSULA — DOHA tions sought by the Asian efforts they have made in pre- football body. The last step is paring this bid file. We look Action resumes at ‘Hail Rally a confirmation from the QFA forward to working with them Toyota 2020’ with the first selective of its commitment to fulfilling as we look to secure the rights section of Hail Baja 2 in the deserts all hosting requirements, fol- to host the AFC Asian Cup around Baqqa this morning. The lowing the schedule approved 2027, God willing.” event is the fifth and final round of by the AFC. It is worth noting that the the 2020 FIA World Cup for Cross- QFA remains confident QFA handed over the first part Country Bajas. that – in line with its of its bid file on 26 August, The two days between the Bajas endeavour to organise the underlining its desire to host marked a perfect opportunity for tournament according to the H E Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Kingdom of Malaysia Fahd bin Mohammed Kafoud Asia’s biggest national team some teams to carry out testing and highest international standards handing over the AFC Asian Cup 2027 bid file. event, followed by the second for others to change settings and – the AFC Asian Cup 2027 will part covering legal require- make revisions to the cars before become one of the many top modern sports facilities that country and a significant helping hundreds of thousands ments on 29 October, and the the resumption of competitive sports events the country has will stage the FIFA World Cup expansion in the number of of professionals commute third part showcasing the gov- action. staged, should hosting rights Qatar 2022 matches. Qatar is hotel rooms. The Metro service between their home and ernment guarantee require- With Bernhard Ten Brinke and be awarded to the QFA. Major keen to leave a lasting legacy is already in use, workplace. The final part of ments on November 26 . Vladimir Vasilyev both needing to AFC tournaments already held for the Asian football family by be as competitive as possible to in Qatar include the AFC Asian delivering a memorable AFC fend off a late Nasser Saleh Al Cup 1988 and 2011 editions, as Asian Cup in 2027. Creating a Qatar will be ready to host the nineteenth edition of the Asian Attiyah challenge for the FIA Baja well as the AFC Champions sports legacy that benefits Cup for national teams, taking advantage of the modern sports title, strategies were assessed for League matches of the West future generations is part of facilities that will stage the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 matches. the coming days and Ten Brinke’s Zone and the East Zone in the 2030 Qatar National engineers have made some radical 2020. Vision.” Qatar is keen to leave a lasting legacy for the Asian football changes to his Toyota’s Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa He added: “Qatar is cur- family by delivering a memorable AFC Asian Cup in 2027. suspension. bin Ahmed Al Thani, President rently working on prepara- Creating a sports legacy that benefits future generations is part As co-driver Tom Colsoul of Qatar Football Association, tions for the FIFA World Cup of the 2030 Qatar National Vision. pointed out: “We needed to do said: “Qatar will be ready to Qatar 2022 by developing Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani something. The car just wasn’t host the nineteenth edition of state-of-the-art infrastructure, feeling right. We watched some the Asian Cup for national including a major-road President, Qatar Football Association video footage of the first Baja and teams, taking advantage of the network to connect the entire we could see it didn’t seem to be handling properly. So the team made some big changes to the suspension.” Meanwhile, the Red Bull Al Ahli climb back to 2nd spot crews of Al Attiyah and Matthieu Baumel and Carlos Sainz , Lucas Cruz, Stéphane Peterhansel and as Umm Salal hold Al Rayyan Edouard Boulanger spent an enjoyable few hours on Sunday afternoon working on a Red Bull THE PENINSULA — DOHA promotion with esteemed motion picture helicopter pilot Fred Hernan Perez fired a brace as Al North. Ahli climbed back to second spot The California-based legend of with a 2-0 victory over Al the skies was responsible for some Kharaitiyat at the QNB Stars spectacular television coverage and League, yesterday. photography on Hail Baja 1, with In other two matches yes- his low-flying antics enabling the terday that wrapped up Round 9 on-event television crew to get up action, last edition’s runners-up close and very personal with the Al Rayyan were held to a 1-1 draw action. by Umm Salal while Al Khor Away from his involvement in edged Al Wakrah 1-0 to register numerous blockbuster movies, Doha set to host their first win of the QSL season. North set the world record for the Al Ahli continued with their highest altitude ever achieved in a AGCFF Executive impressive run of form on their helicopter – a staggering 12,954 home turf, with Paraguayan Perez metres above sea level set in South scoring two goals (34th minute Africa in March 2002. Committee meeting and 38th minute) in the span of Twice former DTM champion five minutes. and triple Race of Champions With the win, Al Ahli moved winner Mattias Ekstrom will get his next week to 19 points, one point ahead of Al first taste of cross-country compe- Gharafa, with Al Sadd leading the tition at Hail Baja 2 in one of two THE PENINSULA — DOHA points standings with 25 points. new X-raid-developed Yamaha Meanwhile, Al Rayyan were YXZ 1000R Rally prototypes The Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation (AGCFF) held to a fourth draw of the season entered in the T3 class. will hold its Executive Committee from December after Umm Salal stole a point from Al Ahli's Hernan The Swede said: “This is my first 20-22 at the Federation’s headquarters in Doha. the former champions at Al Duhail Perez (right) time in Saudi Arabia and my first This was announced by Jassem Al Rumaihi Stadium. celebrates his time to do a race in a side-by-side (pictured above), Secretary General of the AGCFF, Striker Yacine Brahimi took Al goal against (T3). I’m really excited to be with yesterday. Rayyan ahead with a goal on a Al Kharaitiyat, X-raid to drive the Yamaha. This is During the meeting, the bid files for 25th Guff penalty kick in 32 minute, while yesterday. a chance here in Hail for me to Cup will be discussed in a committee headed by Kayke Rodrigues levelled the score prepare for the big challenge, the Dr. Jassim Al Shukaily, Vice President of the AGCFF. with a strike in 50th minute. Despite Dakar. This is the first time the pro- The contents of the bid files will be discussed dominating the proceedings, Al Stadium, Giannis Fetfatzidid totype Yamaha will do a race, so it extensively following which the committee will Rayyan, who enjoyed a lion’s share scored the all-important goal in will be a first for both of us in the decide to pass its recommendations to the Exec- of ball possession, were unable to the 31st minute for Al Khor, who desert.” utive Committee. find a match-winning goal. They are now have seven points as they X-raid team director Sven Al Rumaihi said: “The AGCFF has extended now sixth in the points standing have also recorded four draws Quandt added: “This is a new invitations to all members to attend the meeting. with 13 points. and as many defeats. project for us. It is aimed at We are expecting the delegations to arrive before Earlier, yesterday at Al Ahli Al Wakrah remained on 10 YESTERDAY’S RESULTS beginners and gentleman drivers the specified date.” who love to go to the Dakar as well He added: “When the host country for the 25th Al Rayyan 1-1 Umm Salal in the future. We are running the Action during Gulf Cup is announced, whether at the next Al Ahli 2-0 Al Kharaitiyat cars here for the first time. No the match meeting or at any other time, an inspection com- testing, nothing. This, for us, is a between Al Al Khor 1-0 Al Wakrah mittee will be formed to carry out tours to see the pure test and we see what we have Rayyan and facilities of countries wanting to bid for the event. to cure until Dakar. We hope not Umm Salal, The match stadiums and infrastructure of every points with their fifth defeat, as too much. This is an affordable bidding will be inspected.” yesterday. they once again paid the price for side-by-side." Al Rumaihi said that the AGCFF’s Executive inconsistency in performance. Office meeting on December 22 will be chaired Giannis linked up well with by Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, Leonardo De Souza in taking The two days between the Bajas marked a President of the AGCFF, to discuss the topics on advantage of a mis-pass on the perfect opportunity for some teams to carry its agenda most notably the reports of the com- part of Al Wakrah and grabbing out testing and for others to change settings mittees, including the Gulf Regulatory File Com- the ball from near the centre and make revisions to the cars before the mittee 25 and the approval of the minutes. circle. The Greek attacking mid- Al Rumaihi stressed that the AGCFF meeting fielder then quickly made his way resumption of competitive action. With will discuss proposed ideas aimed at serving the into the box and unleashed a Bernhard Ten Brinke and Vladimir Vasilyev Gulf Cup, the most popular football tournament rising shot past Al Wakrah goal- both needing to be as competitive as possible in the region. keeper Mohamed Saeed. to fend off a late Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah It is noteworthy that the Gulf Cup 25 tour- During the first session, Al challenge for the FIA Baja title, strategies were nament is scheduled to be held during December Khor’s Rafael Santos had a free- 2021 or the month that follows or according to the kick tipped over the bar by the assessed for the coming days and Ten Brinke’s opinion of the Executive Office. goalkeeper, while Al Wakrah’s engineers have made some radical changes to The Gulf Cup includes eight teams: Qatar, spearhead Mohamed Benyettou his Toyota’s suspension. Oman, , Saudi Arabia, , the UAE, was thwarted twice by goalkeeper and . Baba Djibril. TUESDAY 15 DECEMBER 2020 SPORT 09

Mercedes’ British driver Lewis Reaction to Hamilton takes part in the End Rugby: All Blacks Racism event ahead of the Abu the draw held Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix in this December 13, 2020, file in Paris paired with hosts photo. French President Emmanuel Macron France at 2023 “France is a rugby loving country. We are preparing for this event at a very tough time. The nation is behind France. World Cup Everyone is suffering at the moment with us. The COVID-19 crisis is terrible. In REUTERS – PARIS 2023, we want to offer the best of France: the French way of Three-times winners and perennial favourites New Zealand life - friendliness, gastronomy, will face hosts France in the pool stage of the 2023 Rugby World parties and culture.” Cup (RWC), but both teams will be confident of advancing after World Rugby Chairman landing Italy as the third seed in the group yesterday. Bill Beaumont Holders South Africa were drawn with Ireland and Scotland “COVID-19 might stop us while 2019 runners-up England have the potentially tricky dual from travelling, but it can’t challenge of Argentina and . stop the excitement building Wales will face Australia for the fourth time in five tourna- YEARENDER: Sport shows its towards France 2023. This is ments and Fiji for the fifth time in a row, with the islanders elim- where it starts. There can be inating the Welsh last time France hosted the tournament in no better place than France to 2007. resilience in times of trouble celebrate the 200th anni- Should the groups go to roughly to form France would face versary of our game. France a tough quarter-final against the Springboks while England knows better than most the would face Australia or Wales. REUTERS - DOHA power of sport to bring a Ireland, who have never gone beyond the quarter-finals, country together. In chal- would look hard-pressed to break that streak as they would When Yoshiro Mori, President of the Tokyo lenging times, this tournament face New Zealand. Olympics organising committee, claimed defi- represents a positive and The form pathway could then produce a repeat of the 2019 antly in February that the greatest show on earth exciting time for everyone, the semi-finals when England beat New Zealand and South Africa would go ahead in spite of a looming pandemic promise of a celebration like overcame Wales. few realised what wishful thinking that was. no other. The best of rugby and Scotland and Argentina would have been in the second tier Weeks later, with the novel coronavirus the best of France.” of seeds on current rankings but, because the seedings were engulfing the planet, the mighty Olympic jug- France 2023 CEO Claude based on positions at the end of last year because of the COVID- gernaut was stopped in its tracks and the sporting Atcher ravaged calendar, they were placed in the third level and face calendar disintegrated. “In 2023 we all want to a stiff challenge to progress. World Champions South Africa In many ways the announcement on March have the pleasure of being went into the draw having not played a single match since the 24 that the Games was postponed until 2021 came back in stadiums. To be there 2019 final. Their victory in Japan marked the first time a team as a relief for the thousands of athletes left in with friends, with family. We had won the competition after losing a pool match. limbo as Tokyo organisers and the International have the ambition to promote “Although it is still almost three years away, it’s good to have Olympic Committee (IOC) held out for a medical Spain’s Rafael Nadal wears a protective face it as a festival event. It’s a an end-goal to work towards,” South Africa coach Jacques miracle. mask before his first-round match at the French mission we have given our- Nienaber said. It was the first time a modern Olympic Games Open in this September 28, 2020, file photo. selves and we want to make it “Ireland and Scotland will be a massive challenge - we will had been delayed in its 124-year history. better every day. If in 2023 we have to be on top of our game just to get out of the pool.” The cancellation of a two-week sporting jam- are still unsure if people will New Zealand are the only team never to have lost a pool boree, albeit one originally costing $12.6bn, pales both suspended for more than four months, while be back in stadiums we will game. In 2011 they beat France at that stage, then again in the into insignificance compared to the toll of MLB clubs cancelled more than 1,500 games, have bigger problems than the final. They have been paired with Italy for a remarkable seventh COVID-19 on lives and livelihoods. resulting in the shortest regular season on record. Rugby World Cup. We do have time in 10 tournaments - a contributory factor in Italy’s tag as The year is ending with vaccines offering The list of disruptions was endless and the cancellation insurance in the the only team to have played in every World Cup without hope of containing the virus but more than 1.5 financial implications enormous. event of a pandemic.” reaching the knockout stages. million peoplele have died from the virus and econecon-- Yet out of the chaos,chaos, federations,federations event organ- France coach Fabien “We missed out on playing Italy at the last World Cup because omies aroundnd tthehe wworldorld areare in tturmoil.urmoil. isersisers and athletes displayed ingenuityingenui and resolve Galthie, whose team were of a hurricane so in some ways it’s going to be a special occasion A bunch ofof sports men andand wwomenomen to still provide incredible sportingsporting memories in drawn with three-times to play them,” New Zealand coach Ian Foster said. forced to putt their gold- medalm edal the darkest of years.years. champions New Zealand in France Coach Fabien Galthie said: “To play at home is going dreams on hholdold appeaappearsrs trivialtrivial by SSpanishpanish tennis pplayerlayer RaRafafa NNadala produced Pool A to be a fantastic challenge and a big motivation. There will be comparison,n, yet the crisiscrisis hhasas an extraordinary display to ththrash Novak “We think that the team pressure but we’ll have the freedom to play our best.” emphasised sport’s benefit to societysociety DjokovicDjokovic and win a jaw-droppinjaw-droppingg 13th French will be ready for the compe- England beat Argentina in the pool stage in 2019, 2011 and and not justt because of its estimatedestimated OpenOpen title after a ggloomyloomy and cocoldl fortnight in tition. We know that New 1995 while their only tournament meeting with Japan was a $756bn annualual vavalue.lue. Paris at a ddelayedelayed tournament in OOctober. Zealand is going to be one of 60-7 win in the inaugural World Cup in 1987. The Olympicmpic Games, ItIt ddrewrew NadalNadal levellevel witwithh RogRogere Federer on the favourites. They have won Their match in 2023 will be a special one for coach Eddie for all its faults,aults, dopidopingng 20 GrandGrand SSlams.lams. the competition three times. Jones, who has a Japanese mother and coached the country to scandals andd minmind-bog-d-bog- ThatThat a ddelayedelayed Tour ddee France reached Paris To play at home is going to be their famous pool stage win over South Africa in 2015. gling budgetsts remains, withoutwithout a major COVID-19 ooutbreakut was a a fantastic challenge for each Australia lost to Wales in 2019 pool play, sending them into on the whwhole,ole, a triumphtriumph in itseitself.lf. Yet it pprovidedrovided oone of the most player who plays for France. a quarter-final against England which they lost. The same showcase forfor thethe astonishingastonishing ffinishesinishes ever as SSlovenianlov Primoz It’s going to be a big moti- potential outcome is on the cards in 2023, with a knockout game human spirit,t, inspiringinspiring RoglicRoglic saw tthehe yyellowellow jjerseyersey slip from his vation... We will be ready to against Japan or Argentina a probably more welcome quarter- the world’s yyouth.outh. graspgrasp a coupcouplele ooff kkilometresilometres ffromro glory with play our best rugby. There will final route for the pool winners. Sport’s stirringstirring compatriotcompatriot TadejTadej PoPogacargacar wwinningin an epic be pressure but we’ll have the The tournament will take place across nine cities from Sep- response to ththee BBlacklack race. freedom to play our best.” tember 8 to October 21, with the final in Paris. The remaining Lives Matterr pprotestrotest Europe’sEurope’s soccer lleagueseagu resumed New Zealand coach Ian eight qualifiers are yet to be determined and will not be finalised also displayedayed its behind closed doors withw Liverpool Foster until November, 2022. power to advance claimingclaiming theirtheir ffirstirst EEnglishngl title for 30 “The World Cup’s a very French President Emmanuel Macron attended the draw. social justice.e. years,years, whilewhile tthehe bbusinessusine end of the special event and there’s no “We cannot wait to get ready for this event,” he said. “In By the time thethe ChampionsChampions LeaLeaguegue fromfrom the quarter- such thing as an easy Pool. 2023, it will be 12 years since we last reached the final. But this Olympics succumbedccumbed to finalfinal stastagege wawass cocondensednd into 11 We’ve got a lot of history of time it will be at home so you (the team) figure out a way of the inevitableble ddelayelay aann daysdays iinn PortugalPortugal withwith BayernB Munich playing Italy. We missed out winning the Cup. France also reached the finals of 1987 and eagerly-awaitedaited sportinsportingg beatingbeating PariPariss StSt-Germain-Ger in the on playing them at the last 1999 - continuing the 12-year cycle. year wasas alreadyalready showpieceshowpiece matcmatch.h. World Cup because of a hur- unravelling. EnglandEngland wonwon thethe longest Six ricane so in some ways it’s Vice-Chairman of World Rugby Bernard Laporte and Claude A week bbeforeefore thethe GamesGames NationsNations rurugbygby cchampionshipham ever going to be a special occasion Atcher pose after the draw for the 2023 Rugby World Cup in were postponed,stponed, the stagedstaged ---- nininenee mmonthso after an to play them. To have France Palais Brongniart, Paris, France, yesterday. European ChampionshipChampioi nship opening-dayopening-day dedefeatfe by France. in our pool is going to be soccer tournament,rnnamentt, secondsece onnd TheThe SuperSupper Bowl,BBo played in special, it’s a country with a lot only to the WoWWorldrld CuCupp inn size,sizze, frontfront of 662,00022,00000 fans just over of history and we’ve watched was rescheduledduled untilunnttil 2020212211 aass a monthmonth bebeforeefoor a pandemic in admiration as they rebuild UEFA acceptedptet d thethhe futilityfufutit llity ofof waswas dedeclared,cllarede witnessed a their team, they’re building staging an eventveent aacrosscrc osss 122 ccitiesittiees fairytalefairytale finishfi as the something very special for during a pandemic.ndeemic. KaKansasnsas CCity Chiefs 2023.” “The thoughthought ofof cele-ceelele- clawedclawed bback a 10-point Italy coach Franco Smith, brating a pan-Europeanan-n EEurooppeanan ffes-ess- deficitdeeficic t heading into whose team are also in Pool tival of footballotbt ala l iinn eemptympmptyy thethhe ffourth quarter A of the World Cup stadia, withh ddesertedesertet d fafann too beatb the San “Obviously, New Zealand zones, while ttheheh ccontinentonntitineennt ssitsiti s FranciscoFra 49ers will be a big challenge but it’s at home inn iisolation,solatitiono , iss a andana claim their also a big inspiration for our joyless one,”” saidsaid AAleksanderleleksaanndeer fifirstirsr title for 50 guys. France are hosting it, so Ceferin, headad of tthehhee ssport’spport’s years.yearrs we really have the odds European governingoverningg body.boddy.y TheThhe LALA LakersLaLakek rsr captured a stacked against us.” Every majorajor domesticdomemestici soccersoocccecer record-equallingrecoord-eququalllilinng 117th7t7 h NBA Cham- South Africa coach league groundund to a hhaltalalt whwwhilehili e pionshippip ononship bbyy bebbeatingeaatinng MiMMiamia Heat after Jacques Nienaber, whose iconic eventsts feffellllll llikeikke doddominoes.omim nonoese . thethhe seseasoneasasonn rresumedesesumumedd iinn July in a fan- team are in Pool B with For the firstfirst titimeme ssinceince WWorldororldld lellessess DisneyDisneey WoWWorldorlr d bibbiosecureiooss bubble Ireland and Scotland War II theree waswas nono WimbledonWiW mbledod n whilewhwhilile thtthehe DoDDodgersodgdgeerrs snssnappednappp a 32-year “I must say I’m quite tennis championships.haampionsn hiips. TheThe titletiitlle drdroughtought iin ttheheh MMLB.LBL excited. We will really have to revamped FedFeed CupCuup andand DavisDavis CupCuupp TheThe yearyear waswas book-endedbookk- by the be on top of our game just to finals both bbibitit thtthee duddustustst aass dididd cicityityty deathdeath of ttwowow ssportingportinng iicons -- NBA get out of this Pool. It’s funny marathons frfromrom LLondononondon to BBoston.ostoonn.. greatgrreat KoKobebe BBryantryant whwhoho wwas killed in a to think one of South Africa, Golf’s Ryderydderr CCupup andand BritishBritishh OOpenpeen helicopterheh licoc pter ccrashraashh iinn JaJanuary, and Ireland or Scotland might not were cancelled,ledd, whilewhw ili e the MMaMastersstterrs waswas ArArgentinagentina sosoccercccer mmaestroae Diego make it out to the playoff shunted to a sspectator-lessppeectator-less AugustaAuA guguststa MaradonaMaradona wwhoho ppassedassed awaway aged 60 in stages. It’s going to be a tough years time and then there’s the It’s a long way off but the draw in Autumn, longonong afafterftet r ththee azazaleaszala eaas hhahadd NoNovember.vev mbere . Pool and I’m very much reality of who you are going to makes it a bit of a reality now.” bloomed. AfterAfter soo mmuchucu h heheartacheartache there is hope looking forward to it.” play against. I believe it’s the Fiji coach Vern Cotter The Formulamula OnOnee seseasoneasa onn sstalledtaalllleded thatthatt 20212021 willwilll restorerese tore a semblanceseme b of nor- Ireland coach Andy toughest group. On current “It’s actually quite similar to on the grid inn AAustraliaustralliaa wwhereheherree ccricket’sriickeet’s malitymaaliity aandndn tthat,hat,t iinn ththee wowordsordrds oof the IOC and Farrell world rankings, Ireland are fifth, the 2019 Pool, so we will T20 World CupCup waswaas postponedpoostpoonen d ununtiltil TokyoToT kyyo organisersorganin serss oonn thtthathatat ssombreo day in “There’s nothing like a South Africa are the world prepare as best we can. I think 2021. March,Maarcr h,h ttheheh OOlympiclylymmppicic fflamellaammee willwilill bbecome a light Rugby World Cup draw to get champions and first and we are we sit in the middle of this pool The NBAA andand NHNHLL seasonsseeasasonons wewwereerere ata ttheheh eendndnd ooff thtthehe ttutunnel.unnnnelel. the juices flowing, so super ranked seventh, which means and there’s teams underneath excited. We’ll have to play it’s going to be very us that were shining at the 2019 some good rugby to get out of competitive.” World Cup. You’ve got to be very the group. I suppose we know Australia coach Dave careful of everybody. It’s a where the journey is heading Rennie, whose team are in Pool similar pool but in another to now though there’s a few C with Fiji and Wales country, but certainly very gaps that need to be filled in “We’re in our infancy you excited. Obviously, Fiji have just Los Angeles Lakers forward because of COVID-19. might say. We’ve got some good been in the Nations Cup and LeBron James during an NBA Scotland coach Gregor young kids coming through and certainly I’ve got an affinity match at Staples Centre in this Townsend we’ve learned a lot about each there having coached Fiji. It December 13, 2020, file photo. “There’s an excitement other in the last weeks. We’ve does give us now a focal point when you see the draw and got a lot to build on but obvi- and obviously Australia is going look ahead to Paris in two ously excited for the World Cup. to be a big challenge.” Sport TUESDAY 15 DECEMBER 2020 08 Champions League draw: Holders Bayern Munich face Lazio PSG, Barcelona to square off in last 16

AFP — PARIS after a troubled start to the season influenced by Swiss player Paris Saint-Germain, last boardroom chaos and Lionel Stephane Chapuisat season’s beaten finalists, will Messi’s attempt to leave the club revealing the slip of face Barcelona in the last 16 of in the summer. Paris Saint-Germain the Champions League while Messi saved Barca’s blushes during the draw for Liverpool were paired with RB on Sunday with the only goal in the round of 16 of Leipzig in yesterday’s draw. a home win over lowly Levante, the UEFA Champions French champions PSG will but they are nine points behind League at the UEFA relish another chance to avenge La Liga leaders Real Sociedad. headquarters in their soul-destroying Reigning champions Bayern Nyon, yesterday. ‘Remontada’ defeat to the play Italian side Lazio, who are DOWN: This handout Catalan giants in 2017. in the knockout phase for the photograph taken Having beaten Barca 4-0 in first time in over two decades. and released by the French capital, PSG crashed “They are a very difficult to a 6-1 defeat at the Camp Nou opponent, we saw them in the the UEFA shows the orchestrated by Neymar. group against Dortmund,” said screen displaying The Brazilian, who won the Bayern’s sports director Hasan the results after the 2015 Champions League with Salihamidzic. draw for the round Barca, then joined PSG in a “It is always difficult against of 16 of the UEFA world record move weeks later the Italian teams. But it is Champions League. but has yet to taste similar always nice to go to Rome.” European success with Ligue 1’s Lazio’s Spanish midfielder dominant force. Luis Alberto described the draw They came closest last as “complicated”. season when they were beaten Pep Guardiola’s Manchester 1-0 in the final by Bayern City team, who like PSG are still Munich, who claimed a sixth seeking a first Champions it’s the toughest draw that we European crown thanks to a League title despite serious could have had,” the Blues goal from PSG youth product investment from Gulf state boss said. Kingsley Coman. owners, must get past Borussia “We have to have belief With the first legs due to be Moenchengladbach, European in ourselves and, when that played in February, PSG seem Cup finalists way back in 1977. game comes around, you’re hopeful Neymar will have “I learned when I was in going to have to beat these recovered in time from an ankle Germany how big and sort of teams if you’re going injury which forced him to be important and historical a team to win the Champions stretchered off the pitch in his Gladbach are. I respect the League.” side’s 1-0 Ligue 1 defeat to Lyon beauty of their football,” said Cristiano Ronaldo and on Sunday. former Bayern boss Juventus will play Portuguese Yesterday, PSG said Ney- Guardiola. side Porto, winners in 2004, mar’s prognosis was “reas- “I want to arrive in the best while Real Madrid take on suring” while the 28-year-old condition when we play them. last season’s surprise quarter- said on Instagram that his injury We want to compete as best as finalists Atalanta. “could have been worse” fol- possible and go through.” “We want to face them in lowing a rough tackle from Frank Lampard said that the same manner we took on Lyon midfielder Thiago Mendes Chelsea, winners in 2012, have Barcelona,” said Juve vice which left him screaming in been handed the hardest pos- president Pavel Nedved, agony. sible draw with their tie against referring to the 3-0 win at the Liverpool will be wary of an Manchester United in the group Jurgen Klopp’s Reds face a Barca may not be as intim- Atletico Madrid. Camp Nou which allowed the attack-minded RB Leipzig side phase. That match will be a Leipzig side led by young coach idating opponents as in the past “I think most people will say Italians to top their group. who ended the hopes of clash of German managers as Julian Nagelsmann. Lyon expects pace and In-form New Zealand sweep West footmarks from Starc

REUTERS — SYDNEY Indies series to top Test rankings

Mitchell Starc’s return to the Australian AFP — WELLINGTON fold will not only add teeth to their pace attack but also aid Nathan Lyon’s battle New Zealand shot to the top of against ’s phalanx of right-handed the world Test rankings batsman, the off-spinner said. yesterday when they thrashed Left-arm quick Starc is scheduled to the West Indies by an innings return from a compassionate leave to join and 12 runs to wrap up an rest of his team-mates in Adelaide before emphatic series win. the four-Test series begins with a day- It lifted the Black Caps to 116 night match on Thursday. points, equal with Australia at While Starc’s pink-ball mastery is the head of the rankings table, likely to come handy for the hosts, Lyon and also extended their is hoping to bowl into the quick’s foot- unbeaten home run to 15 Tests. marks from the other end to try and New Zealand also stayed in trouble a rival lineup dominated by their the hunt for the inaugural right-handed batsmen. World Test Championship final “I’ve obviously been working quite as they overtook England to hard on bowling to right-handers,” move into third in the standings Lyon, who needs 10 dismissals to join behind Australia and India, who the 400 Test wicket club, said. start a four-Test series this “I’m looking to really try and week. compete against both edges, try to bring “It does sound pretty cool,” both edges into play with catchers around said Tom Latham, New Zea- the bat. So it’s going to be a big challenge land’s stand-in captain while New Zealand's players celebrate after their series win against but I’m very lucky Mitch Starc is going to Kane Williamson is on paternity West Indies at the Basin Reserve in Wellington, yesterday. join the squad today, it should be good fun.” leave. Lyon was the joint highest wicket- “I didn’t realise that until taker, along with Jasprit Bumrah, two this morning,” he said of the that matter, and it’s a pretty cool runs. The wicket was a really and having the advantage of seasons ago when India won their first rankings boost. thing.” good wicket. bowling first on green wickets Australia’s ever Test series in Australia. “We have been playing After Williamson pulled out “We’ve just not been con- in both Tests, the West Indies Nathan Lyon some good cricket as of late in on the eve of the second Test, sistent over a period of time. bowlers struggled for con- our conditions, and away for Latham said the team stepped We haven’t been able to string sistency and their batsmen up with Henry Nicholls over- it together, more often than lacked the variety of shot WI's Holder wants end to SCOREBOARD coming a form slump to score not.” selection to handle New Zea- New Zealand 1st innings 460 174 and lay the foundations of After losing the first Test in land’s swing and seam attack. West Indies 1st innings 131 the victory. New Zealand by an innings and The top five West Indies having only home umpires West Indies 2nd innings Kyle Jamieson, in only his 134 runs, and being rolled for batsmen totalled only 267 K. Brathwaite c Young b Boult ...... 24 fourth Test, took five wickets in 131 in the first innings of the across their four Test innings, AFP — WELLINGTON with international travel” the J. Campbell b Jamieson ...... 68 the first innings and two in the second Test, they saved their just 16 more than New Zealand ICC rescinded the rule this year D. Bravo c Nicholls b Boult ...... 4 second to be man of the series. best for their final bat on tour, maestro Williamson scored on S. Brooks c Watling b Wagner ...... 36 West Indies captain Jason to again allow for home R. Chase c Latham b Jamieson ...... 0 Tim Southee took seven in scoring 317 all out in their his own in the first Test. Holder pressed yesterday for umpires and match referees. J. Blackwood b Boult ...... 20 the Test. New Zealand also won second innings. Even with Williamson out an end to cricket’s insistence Holder said in any Test J. Holder b Southee ...... 61 the first Test in Hamilton by an The tourists resumed the for the second Test, New on home umpires because of series there would be ques- J. da Silva lbw Wagner ...... 57 innings. day at 244 for six, needing a Zealand were still able to post the coronavirus pandemic, tionable decisions and he A. Joseph c Watling b Southee ...... 24 “It was great for our squad further 85 runs to make New 460 as Nicholls shrugged off a although he had no serious thought the New Zealand C. Holder not out ...... 13 that we do have depth where Zealand bat again and with batting slump to contribute his complaints about the officiating umpires “did a reasonable job” S. Gabriel b Wagner ...... 0 guys can come in and perform Jason Holder on 60 and Joshua 174, aided by five dropped in New Zealand. as the Black Caps coasted to a Extras (b1, lb7, w1, nb1) ...... 10 straight away,” Latham said. da Silva on 25. catches. Total (10 wickets; 79.1 overs) ...... 317 Speaking after the West first Test victory. Fall of wickets: 1-37 (Brathwaite), 2-41 (Bravo), But it was a disappointing Holder added one to his John Campbell’s 68 in the Indies suffered back-to-back “But, I don’t understand a 3-130 (Brooks), 4-131 (Chase), 5-134 (Camp- tour for the West Indies, with overnight 60 before he was second innings of the final Test heavy losses to the Black Caps situation where we’re having bell), 6-170 (Blackwood), 7-252 (Holder), both Tests ending on the fourth bowled by Tim Southee, who was the best contribution by the when only New Zealand offi- home umpires,” he said. 8-282 (Joseph), 9-307 (da Silva), 10-317 morning. They have now lost also had Alzarri Joseph caught West Indies’ top order. cials were in charge, Holder “If we can travel and do a (Gabriel) four in a row since beating behind after an entertaining 24 Their highest scores of the said a fairer system would be quarantine, I don’t see why an Bowling: Southee 22-4-96-2, Boult 21-3-96- England in Southampton in July. -- all from boundaries. series came from Jermaine to have an umpire from both opposing (team) umpire can’t do 3, Jamieson 15-4-43-2 (1w), Wagner 17.1-4- Captain Jason Holder said Da Silva marked his maiden Blackwood (104) and Alzarri 54-3 (1nb), Mitchell 4-0-20-0 countries on duty. the travel and quarantine. If Toss: West Indies they only had themselves to Test with a half-century but on Joseph (89) batting at six and The International Cricket players are making the sacrifice Result: New Zealand won by an innings and blame. 57 he fell lbw to Neil Wagner, eight in a lost-cause second Council (ICC) introduced and go on the road and continue 12 runs “It’s just tough when we who also bowled Shannon innings of the first Test. neutral umpires 26 years ago cricket then I feel as though the Series: New Zealand 2-0 didn’t take our opportunities Gabriel without scoring to leave New Zealand start a two- to end accusations of home- umpires should do the same. Umpires: Chris Gaffaney (NZL), Chris Brown when they came. We were good Chemar Holder not out 13. Test series against Pakistan on team bias. “If it’s a case where you get (NZL) in patches but still not good For New Zealand, Wagner December 26 and will need But with the Covid-19 dis- a home and an opposing TV umpire: Wayne Knights (NZL) enough,” he said. took three for 54 and Trent another series sweep to be in ruption to international sport umpire to do a Test match then Match referee: Jeff Crowe (NZL) “I don’t think conditions Boult finished with three for 96. with a chance of reaching the and the “logistical challenges I think that’s fair.” were that tough in order to get Despite winning the toss Test championship final.