CCRICKETRICKET | Page 3 TTENNISENNIS | Page 6 England to wear Up to 20,000 ‘Black Lives fans to attend Matter’ logo for French Open WI series each day

Friday, July 3, 2020 FOOTBALL Dhul-Qa’da 12, 1441 AH Qatar’s ambitions GULF TIMES growing by the day, says Almoez Ali SPORT Page 8

HORSE RACING Qatar Racing Limited’s Know It All wins Group 3 in Ireland Agencies Leopardstown, Ireland Al Shaqab’s Katara wins Fillies’ Novice Stakes at Kempton

Agencies he lightly-raced Know It Kempton, United Kingdom All, a winner and Group- Tplaced at two years, notched her fi rst Group or the silver and maroon win in the Derrinstown Stud Fil- Fsilks of Al Shaqab Racing, lies Stakes (Group 3) for three- Katara broke her maiden year-olds at Leopardstown, Ire- in promising style in the Unibet land, on Wednesday evening. Extra Place Off ers Every Day Fil- Owned and bred by Qatar Rac- lies’ Novice Stakes at Kempton ing Limited, the bay fi lly came on Wednesday evening. into the race off a courageous Trained by Sir Michael Stoute second place at the beginning of in Newmarket, the bay filly June in the Leopardstown Fillies’ debuted in October last year as Trial Stakes (Group 3), her sea- a two-year-old when, despite Jim Crowley rides Katara to Fillies’ Novice Stakes victory at sonal bow. her obvious athleticism, she had Kempton, United Kingdom, on Wednesday evening. (John Hoy) This was her fi rst attempt at Ben Coen rides Know It All to Derrinstown Stud Fillies Stakes (Group 3) victory at Leopardstown, Ireland, on a bad stumble leaving the stalls the distance of a mile, having Wednesday. (Racing Post) which put her out of conten- jockey Jim Crowley, who gave Andrew Balding-trained Horn Of only ever run over seven furlongs tion. She put that all behind her her a confident ride throughout. Plenty was a further one-and- previously in her career. ning through the line to score in third under Ronan Whelan. or a mile, it makes no diff erence on her seasonal bow this year She came up to pressure the a-half length behind in third Know It All was settled in a convincing victory by two Winning trainer Johnny Mur- to her. She’s a big powerful fi lly when she finished second by a leaders before pulling away under Oisin Murphy. mid-division by up and com- lengths and a quarter. tagh said after the race, “It’s a who travels well and there’s more short head at Yarmouth three impressively to secure a five- Katara was bred by Al Shaqab ing apprentice jockey Ben Coen Celestial Object, owned by great win. She’s really a nice fi lly to come from her.” weeks ago. Her imposing win, at length victory in the 2200m run Racing at Haras de Bouquetot, and once in the straight, the race Newtown Anner Stud Farm Ltd and she ran really well last time Know It All is by the Japanese Kempton on Wednesday, con- for three-year-olds and older. France. She is by the Champion opened up perfectly for the pair. and trained by Mrs John Har- out, but was a bit unlucky and got sire Lord Kanaloa. She is out of firmed that this progressive filly Bartisan Racing Ltd-owned and Japanese sire Deep Impact and She powered through a gap to rington, fi nished second under shuffl ed back. She had a tough Common Knowledge, by the ex- is one to watch later this season. Michael Bell-trained La Drag- out of New Approach’s mare pass the leaders in a matter of Shane Foley. draw today, but Ben gave her a cellent broodmare sire Rainbow She travelled with cover in ontea was the runner-up with Asyad, a three-time winner strides. The Aga Khan-owned Ridenza, lovely ride. She showed us all the Quest, the dam of Group win- mid-division before switching to Kieran Shoemark in the saddle. herself in Al Shaqab Racing Never in doubt, she put any trained by M Halford, was a fur- signs at home that she’d come on ners Astrophysical Jet and Coral the outside in the final turn by The Mildmay Racing-owned and colours. stamina worries behind her run- ther length and a quarter behind from her fi rst run. Seven furlongs Wave.

FORMULA 1 CRICKET Ex-SL skipper Seventh title ‘would Sangakkara grilled in WC fi xing probe

AFP mean more’ for Colombo, Sri Lanka Briton, an outspoken supporter of the ri Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara was ques- Black Lives Matter movement, says he Stioned for nearly 10 hours yesterday by detectives expects drivers to make a show of unity probing explosive allegations the Hamilton 2011 Cricket World Cup fi nal was AFP fi xed under his captaincy. Spielberg, Austria Sangakkara, 42, was called in to the police Special Investiga- tion Unit (SIU) examining the ewis Hamilton believes conduct of the fi nal, which Sri that a record-equalling Lanka lost to India at Mumbai’s Lseventh world title this Wankhede Stadium. year would mean more “I came here to give a state- to him than any other if it helps ment because of my responsibil- in his campaign for social justice ity to the game and respect for necting players, but some sec- and equality. cricket,” Sangakkara said after tions were involved.” The six-time world champion, the end of his marathon ques- Sri Lanka bat fi rst and scored who can draw level with Michael tioning by detectives. 274-6 off 50 overs. They ap- Schumacher in the record books, “I hope at the end of this in- peared in a commanding position told a controlled offi cial video vestigation, the truth about the when Indian superstar Sachin news conference ahead of this allegations made by (former Tendulkar was out for 18. weekend’s season-opening Aus- sports minister) Mahindananda But India turned the game trian Grand Prix that he was seek- Aluthgamage will come out.” around dramatically, thanks in ing change for “our kids and our He did not discuss the line of part to poor fi elding and bowling children’s kids”. questioning by the SIU which later by Sri Lanka. Sangakkara and his “Winning a title would mean announced Sangakkara’s then vice deputy Jayawardena quit their more,” he said. captain Mahela Jayawardena will positions in the team after the “Being that it is such a mo- be questioned today. stunning defeat. mentous year in the sense that Their opening batsman at the The toss of the fi nal was also you’ve got this pandemic, which fi nal, Upul Tharanga, was the fi rst controversial as it was done is still very much in and that player to be questioned. He was twice. Match referee Jeff Crowe we’re fi ghting. interviewed by the SIU over two apparently did not hear “heads” “Then, also, on a personal hours on Wednesday, a day after called by Sangakkara and asked level, the Black Lives Matter chief selector Aravinda de Silva Indian skipper MS Dhoni to toss movement and the fi ght for jus- spent over six hours answering again. tice and equality, to be fi ghting questions about the fi nals. Sangakkara won the toss and for something so important. Sangakkara is the most high elected to bat, a decision that was “It’s not going to change really Mechanics work on the car of Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton on the eve of the first practice session at the Austrian Grand Prix in Spielberg, profi le player to be questioned criticised in local media because in our time, for our generation, Austria, yesterday. (AFP) in connection with the stunning the Sri Lankans were considered but for our kids and our chil- match-fi xing allegation which was to be better at chasing at the time. dren’s kids, it’s such an impor- discuss possibly taking a knee I think, already, as a team, we been on top of my mind,” he said. jean, Kevin Magnussen, George raised last month by Aluthgamage Sri Lankan cricket has been tant thing for us. during a meeting today evening, have shown quite a big acknowl- “I’ve been asked the question Russell, Lando Norris and Max who was also the sports minister plagued by several corruption “So, yes, winning the world a move supported by many edgement of where we are in so- multiple times and it’s not really Verstappen all spoke on Thurs- during the 2011 competition. scandals, including claims of title during that period of time speaking at the Red Bull Ring ciety today and that we are not been a priority for me to have a day in support of the anti-rac- Sangakkara is also the cur- match-fi xing ahead of a 2018 I think would be even more im- circuit yesterday. standing still. plan to kneel at the start line. So ism campaign and taking a knee rent president of the Marylebone Test against England. portant than before.” Hamilton and Mercedes “We are moving ahead. It will we’ll see. on Sunday. Cricket Club in London. Before Last month the local cricket Hamilton, who has been an teammate Valtteri Bottas will be be interesting to see if any other “Whatever we do, we’ll try “It’s right to do it and we are turning up at the SIU yesterday, board said the ICC was investi- outspoken supporter of the wearing black overalls and driv- team is doing anything, but we to do it united. I think it’s really 100 per cent together to end rac- Sangakkara said Aluthgamage’s gating three unnamed ex-players Black Lives Matter movement ing black cars, carrying an ‘End will, I’m sure, as drivers all stand important that we remain unit- ism in the sport,” said Grosjean. allegations should be referred to over corruption claims. since the death of George Floyd, Racism’ message, this season. to represent something.” ed, or we become united. I would Russell added: “We have to the International Cricket Coun- Match-fi xing was made a said he expected the drivers to He has also launched his own He added, however, that say also in this sport. We really show support for wider issues cil (ICC). criminal off ence in November. make a show of unity ahead of commission into diversity in kneeling on the grid had not oc- do have to fi ght for the injustices than racing. I live for racing, but “I feel I can talk about it now,” Off enders face fi nes of up to Sunday’s race. motorsport. cupied his thinking. and the inequality.” there are a lot of other things Aluthgamage told a local TV net- 100mn rupees ($555,000) and up The drivers are expected to “It’s going to be the fi rst race. “It’s not something that’s Fellow drivers Romain Gros- that matter.” work last month. “I am not con- to 10 years’ jail. Gulf Times 2 Friday, July 3, 2020 MOTORSPORT

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Vettel recognises he could walk away from F1 for good Eerie atmosphere

Reuters son-opening Austrian Grand I’ll probably have to look out for London, United Kingdom Prix that he had yet to have any something else.” for early arrivals at real contract discussions with Vettel, 32, recognised there other teams. might be no coming back if he our-times world cham- “Obviously, I want to make did have to walk away — even belated F1 opener pion Sebastian Vettel sure I make the right decision for if Spain’s double world cham- Frecognised yesterday myself and my future. I think I pion Fernando Alonso, who left AFP than 300 people, is severely his Formula One career have a very competitive nature, I the sport in 2018, is tipped for a Spielberg, Austria pruned with only around 20 could be over at the end of the have achieved a lot in the sport,” comeback at Renault. journalists confi ned to the media season. he said. “I am of the conviction that centre — all reliant on video in- The German is starting his fi - “I’m motivated and willing to if you shut the door then you arly arrivals at the Red terviews without any direct con- nal year with Ferrari, with Span- achieve more. To do so I need the should not shut it in the expec- Bull Ring yesterday faced tact with drivers or teams. iard Carlos Sainz already signed right package and the right peo- tation that it will open again,” Ean eerie and unprec- Everyone had passed a corona- from McLaren to take his place case of the former who have Valt- opt to continue unchanged with ple around me, so that’s what I’m said Vettel. edented scenario as they virus swab test before travelling. at Maranello. teri Bottas and six-times world Hamilton looking sure to stay looking out for at the moment. “You have to be aware of the donned protective masks and “It is more like a private test Champions Mercedes and champion Lewis Hamilton out of and add to his impressive list of “If the right opportunity decision you are making, that´s went in search of their work- than the start of a season,” said fi fth-placed Renault still have contract at the end of 2020. records. should arise then it is quite also why I am not rushing into places. Jonathan Noble of Autosport. vacancies, on paper at least in the Mercedes could, however, Vettel said ahead of the sea- clear. If that’s not the case then anything.” Signs at the entrance made clear “There’s not much security out- safety face gear is compulsory for side the venue, but pleas for fans all entering the paddock for this to stay away seem to have worked.” FORMULA 1 weekend’s belated season-open- On arrival, all went through ing Austrian Grand Prix. temperature tests and a hand- Inside, there was none of the wash before a fi nal identity check. once-usual hubbub of gossip as Inside, the media centre oper- team members and journalists ates a one-way system and uses a obeyed social distancing pro- sealed room for controlled news tocol and remained in defi ned conferences. ‘bubbles’ in the sunshine of the “Media scrums and live ques- Verstappen targets Styrian Alps. tions are out,” said Noble. “Eve- Outside, there were no fans rything is being done remotely.... gathering in hillside campsites. Media have to pre-submit ques- Instead the fi elds were fi lled with tions to be asked by the host. grazing cattle. Zero risk is being taken in terms Tents and canopies replaced the of mixing the social bubbles.” usual high-rise team motor homes Reporting on the Autosport as the F1 circus came together for website, he added secret chats title as season fi nally the fi rst time in seven months fol- with team people were out, too. lowing the Covid-19 pandemic. “WhatsApp will be the place for The teams arrived at nearby that!” Zeltweg on private charter fl ights Even UK rights-holders Sky before being transferred to hotels were operating under restric- from which they are shuttled to tions with Sky Sports News the circuit. reporter Craig Slater back in starts in Austria Under a strict protocol, the London, instead of at the track, teams are not allowed to meet hosting reports with Sky Sports’ ‘They (Mercedes) are still very strong... but as a team we learnt a lot over the last year’ and mix and within each team Ted Kravitz. ‘mini-bubbles’ of staff function This weekend’s race is the fi rst DPA separately to minimise the risk of of two on successive weekends in Spielberg, Austria contact. Austria, followed by the Hungar- The news media contingent, ian Grand Prix a week later as F1 amounting in the past to more holds nine races in 11 weeks. ercedes and Lewis Hamilton in par- Mticular have domi- nated Formula One in recent years but the corona- virus-delayed 2020 season be- gins Sunday with Max Verstap- pen and Red Bull eyeing a title charge. The Austrian Grand Prix is the fi rst of a Spielberg double- header and a third consecutive race week in Hungary then gives Red Bull the ideal chance to set a marker in the championship battle. “I hope so, it’s so hard to say,” Verstappen told the team homepage when asked if he could challenge for a fi rst world title. “One thing I know for sure Banners with images of drivers are seen in the stands ahead of the is that we will do everything we Austrian Grand Prix yesterday. (Reuters) can to fi ght for it.” Verstappen has won the last two races in Austria while Red Red Bull driver Max Verstappen leaves the aircraft upon his arrival to the military airport Hinterstoisser in Zeltweg ahead of the Austrian Bull are traditionally strong in Grand Prix in Spielberg, Austria, yesterday. (AFP) World Rally Championship to resume Hungary as well. in Estonia in September But there is an element of fi cial policy. moving on — either into retire- “But now it’s time to get back gles. the unknown — rather than the Title-holder Hamilton can ment or another team from 2021 in the cockpit of a real car,” said After a week off follow- AFP dates. season starting in Australia on move level with Michael Schu- — means he may have less incli- Leclerc. ing Hungary, there is a British Paris, France The Italian Rally on Sardinia, March 15, just a few weeks af- macher’s record championship nation than usual to extend the Below the big three teams, double-header August 2 and 9, which should have taken place ter testing, teams have had the haul of seven and the German’s hand of cooperation. McLaren will expect to continue then races in Spain (August 16), the beginning of June, has been chance to tinker and develop best tally of 91 race victories is “It’s no secret that we’re all progress and possibly end a long Belgium (August 30) and Italy he World Rally Champion- rescheduled for October 29 to cars without the public seeing also in sight. really keen to get back on track, podium drought before driver (September 6). Tship (WRC), interrupted November 1. the results. Hamilton, like teammate as it’s been such a long time Carlos Sainz moves to Ferrari Then the schedule is — still — in March by the corona- The WRC said it was in discus- “Mercedes are still the ones to Valtteri Bottas, is out of con- now,” Vettel told the Ferrari while Daniel Ricciardo begins a void with virtually everything virus pandemic, will resume sions for two additional races: beat, because they have been the tract at the end of the season homepage. his Renault farewell before re- up in the air until the fi nale in in Estonia in September, the an Ypres Rally in Belgium on dominant team for so long now,” but Mercedes motorsport chief “At the start, the break was en- placing him. Bahrain and then Abu Dhabi in organisers and the International October 2-4 and a race in said Verstappen. “They are still Toto Wolff has previously said joyable, as usually we are always American team Haas hope to December. F1 still hopes to run a Automobile Federation (FIA) Croatia on an undecided date. very strong and will be hard to “hopefully we will have some- travelling around the world and bounce back from a poor 2019 15-18 race season. announced yesterday. The WRC also announced beat but as a team we learnt a thing pretty soon”. we have little time to spend with while veteran former champion There are no fans in the “Today’s restart announcement the Argentine rally, originally lot over the last year and I really Sebastian Vettel is one of op- family and friends, but the time Kimi Raikkonen is still putting stands, a vastly reduced trav- sends a clear signal that the postponed in March, had been think that we are stronger.” tion as the German gears up for has come to get back on track.” in the miles for Alpha Romeo. elling village in terms of team 2020 WRC is back in business,” cancelled, joining Portugal, Verstappen’s partner Alex Al- his last season with Ferrari hav- The Ferrari duo, like the rest Williams want to bounce numbers and media, and a strict said Oliver Cielsa, WRC Pro- Kenya, Finland, New Zealand bon is likely to play second fi d- ing been usurped by younger of the grid, have been doing back from an embarrassing last hygiene protocol to follow with moter’s managing director, on and Wales as legs which were dle in the team hierarchy while a teammate Charles Leclerc. a mixture of fi tness training, season but uncertainty remains regular testing. the organisation’s website. on the original 2020 calendar similar dynamic can be expected The pair have previously simulator work and entertain- around the classic British team It will be diff erent. But, from The championship will com- but will not be run. at Mercedes, even if it is not of- clashed on track and Vettel ing fans online during the break. due to ongoing fi nancial strug- Sunday, there is racing again. prise at least eight rounds, in- Estonia, home of reigning world cluding the three (Monte Carlo, champion Ott Tanak hosted a Sweden and Mexico) raced promotional event in 2019. But 2019 winner: Max Verstappen circuit is the second highest alti- RACE WINS POINTS Austrian GP facts before the Covid-19 outbreak. for its WRC debut, the event, (Red Bull) tude of the season after Mexico. The Estonia Rally will run Sep- held around Tartu in the east of and numbers Race lap record: Kimi Raikko- Hamilton has 84 wins, with Hamilton can extend his own tember 4-6 and will be the first the country, will be shortened, nen (Ferrari), 2018, 1:06.957 Mercedes have won four of six Michael Schumacher’s record 91 record (33) for most successive Circuit: Red Bull Ring, Spiel- in the country. with only two stages on Satur- Start time: 4:10pm (Qatar Time) races since 2014, although 2018 in his sights. McLaren and Wil- points finishes on Sunday. berg, Austria saw their first double mechani- liams have not won since 2012. ROOKIE It will be followed by a race day and Sunday. Lap distance: Total 4.318km. AUSTRIA cal retirement since 2010. POLE POSITION AND PODIUMS in Turkey (24-27 September) Frenchman Sebastien Ogier distance: 306.452km (71 laps) Canadian Nicholas Latifi, with which like Germany (15-18 leads the drivers’ standings 2019 pole: Charles Leclerc Austria returned to the calendar That failure remains Lewis Hamil- Hamilton has a record 88 career Williams, is the only rookie this October) and Japan (19-22 No- and his Toyota team leads the (Ferrari) in 2014 after an 11-year break. The ton’s most recent retirement. poles and 151 career podiums season. vember) will run on its original manufacturers’ standings.

BOTTOMLINE Pagenaud, Power favoured in Indy road course showdown AFP dianapolis,” Pagenaud said. “My of US auto racing, have raced Together with Power’s 2018 ing been runner-up at the Indy Washington, United States whole life changed last May... by at the same venue on the same Indy 500 victory and Pagenaud’s road course each of the past three winning both the Indianapolis weekend, but fans will not be 2019 triumph, Roger Penske cars years. 500 and the IndyCar GP. Memo- allowed at the races due to the own four IndyCar wins in a row “We’ll defi nitely keep pushing hree-time winners Si- ries I will never forget. Now we deadly virus outbreak, which at Indianapolis Motor Speedway and keep snatching these wins if mon Pagenaud of France fi nally have the opportunity to will require social distancing and and every road-course title. we can,” Dixon said. Tand Will Power of Aus- return and attempt to win again.” masks for race teams all weekend. “We’ve had some amazing The Kiwi racer is set for his tralia will be favoured The coronavirus pandemic Pagenaud must wait until next success there as a team since Si- 260th consecutive IndyCar start, in Saturday’s IndyCar Grand that delayed the season opener month to try and repeat as Indy mon and I are still the only win- which will become the longest Prix of Indianapolis, the second to June in Texas pushed the Indy 500 champion, the 104th edition ners,” Power said. “This is such active streak as Brazilian Tony race since the season began last road course race to the US Inde- postponed to August 23 by the a fun road course and always is a Kanaan’s record streak of 318 month. pendence Day holiday as part of a Covid-19 outbreak. place where the series really can starts in a row ends. Pagenaud won over the 14- historic weekend double-header Power, the Frenchman’s Pen- put on a show.” Spectators are set to return to turn, 2.439-mile (3.925km) road that includes a Sunday NAS- ske Racing teammate, is also a ti- New Zealand’s Scott Dixon, IndyCar events in two races July course in May of 2019 then cap- CAR stock car race at the circuit, tle threat in the 80-lap Indy road chasing his sixth career IndyCar 11-12 at Road America in Elkhart tured the Indianapolis 500 oval which includes part of the Indy course showdown, having won it points crown and second in three Lake, Wisconsin. classic two weeks later for a oval. in 2015, 2017 and 2018 while Pa- seasons, won the 2020 opener “I know all of us in the series sweep at the iconic “Brickyard.” It’s the fi rst time IndyCar and genaud won in 2014 and 2016 in on June 6 at Fort Worth, Texas. can’t wait to see them back,” Pa- “I’m thrilled to go back to In- NASCAR, the most popular form addition to last year. He is a contender as well, hav- genaud said. Simon Pagenaud (right) talks to Will Power during IndyCar Series testing at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, on February 11, 2020. (AFP) Gulf Times Friday, July 3, 2020 3 CRICKET

COMMENT ‘India at the forefront of a fast bowling renaissance’ IANS experience of (Stuart) Broad and ture in late 2019. “Jasprit is one New Delhi (James) Anderson. Jofra I think of a small group of bowlers, who has the best action in world transcend the various formats of cricket,” Bishop said on Sony Ten the game. But you can’t expect ommentator and former Pit Stop that was aired on the him to last if he is playing every West Indies fast bowler network’s Facebook page. game in every format. The human CIan Bishop said that “Pakistan have found at least body cannot do that. India have world cricket is current- three young bowlers that are done a smart thing by limiting ly going through a golden period really good. Sri Lanka have one him and as fi t as he is, he still sus- of fast bowling and India are at that I can think of, Lahiru Ku- tained an injury. He is really seri- the forefront of what he called a mara. New Zealand have good ous about his stuff . He said that “fast bowling renaissance.” quick bowlers as well. India are he had one milkshake during the He also said that the best fast at the forefront of this fast bowl- tour of South Africa. You have to bowlers in the world who can ing renaissance. They recog- manage these precious resources play all three formats need to be nised years ago that if you are to because he is a generational tal- preserved somewhat like how be the number one team in the ent,” he said. India have done with Jasprit world, you cannot rely on your Bishop said that the evolution Bumrah. spinners all the time.” of pitches and a rising call to use “I think we are in a golden pe- According to Bishop, Bumrah the Dukes ball for Test matches riod of fast bowling. You look at is one of the few fast bowlers has also helped the cause. what the West Indies are bring- in the world who is equally le- “The pitches have also ing, then there is (Mitchell) thal regardless of the format of evolved. We see more and more Starc and (Josh) Hazlewood for the game. India have regulated pitches encouraging fast bowl- India pacer Jasprit Bumrah Australia alongwith the number Bumrah’s game time, preserv- ing and there is a clarion call to one ranked Test bowler in the ing him for Test matches and use the Dukes ball instead of the world as well (Pat Cummins). big ODI matches and using him Kookaburra. All of those things England have Jofra Archer and sparingly for T20Is. Even then, combined I think is helping a fast Mark Wood to supplement the he had sustained a stress frac- bowling renaissance,” he said.

FOCUS DEVELOPMENT Simmons won’t be sacked over funeral England to wear attendance

AFP London

est Indies coach ‘Black Lives Matter’ Phil Simmons Wwas told Wednes- day he was in no danger of losing his job after the Barbados Cricket Associa- tion president said the former Test batsman should be sacked for attending his father-in- logo for WI series law’s funeral. Simmons is currently in backing of Cricket West Indies self-isolation at the team’s no matter what has been said. ‘It has become a message of solidarity and a drive for progress and societal change’ on-site hotel at Old Traff ord “When all is said and done, ahead of next week’s fi rst Test Phil’s job is not in any way AFP against England at South- threatened by that letter. London ampton after being granted “He went through a very a request for compassionate vigorous recruitment process leave before the squad left for nine months ago and was the ngland will join the West Britain. Simmons temporarily best man we could have found Indies in wearing “Black left the West Indies’ protective for the job. He’s still the best ELives Matter” logos on bubble to attend the funeral, man.” their shirts during their which took place in Britain. Meanwhile Simmons, in his three-match Test series, but Simmons has twice tested second stint as Windies coach, the England and Wales Cricket negative for the coronavirus said: “This has not been an Board insisted yesterday that “it and will rejoin the squad if easy time for my family. My is not an endorsement of a po- he’s given the all-clear follow- wife was very close to her fa- litical organisation”. ing another test carried out on ther and his passing has hurt The tourists had previously Wednesday. us. There was no question of announced they would be wear- But ahead of a Test se- me not going to the funeral. ing the logo which is also being ries taking place against the “My wife, my daughters and worn by Premier League foot- backdrop of Covid-19, ESP- my son needed that support. ballers. NCricinfo revealed that BCA Family is a huge thing for me. The ECB said its decision had chief Conde Riley had written “It won’t disrupt us, it will been “fully supported” by Eng- to Cricket West Indies presi- just make us a little stronger land players led by Test captain dent Ricky Skerritt lamenting going into the Test series. Our Joe Root and stand-in skipper an “inconsiderate and reck- focus is still on the series.” Ben Stokes. less” process as he called for West Indies captain Jason ECB chief executive Tom Har- Simmons’ dismissal. Holder had no qualms over rison made it clear, however, But Skerritt told a confer- Simmons’ brief absence. the move showed support for ence call: “I want to assure “Phil has done what was “progress and societal change” West Indies cricket fans that asked of him and I don’t have and did not extend to explicit Phil Simmons still has the full any issue with it,” he said. backing for any wider political aims. “It has become a message of SPOTLIGHT solidarity and a drive for progress and societal change,” he said. “There can be no place for racism in society or our sport, and we Ashes won, Australia must do more to tackle it.” But he added: “Our support of that message is not an endorse- drops Dukes ball from ment, tacit or otherwise, of any political organisation, nor the backing of any group that calls Sheffi eld Shield for violence or condones illegal activity. Reuters nents,” Roach said in a state- “We are aware of certain as- Melbourne ment. pects of the movement that pro- “We have noted that spin mote their own political views, The decision taken by the England and Wales Cricket Board was fully supported by the England players. PICTURE: ECB bowlers in the... Sheffi eld and their actions are not sup- ustralia has dropped Shield have been playing less ported in any way by the ECB the British-made of a role in recent seasons, and our players.” Unwell Curran isolating aft er bowing out of England warm-up ADukes ball from its most notably in games when It is understood, however, that 2020/21 Sheffi eld the Dukes ball is in use. the England squad will not take England all-rounder Sam Curran went diarrhoea overnight,” said an England Shield season and will use only “We need spinners bowl- a knee ahead of the fi rst Test, into self-isolation and had a test for the and Wales Cricket Board statement. “He is the Kookaburra to encourage ing in fi rst class cricket and we which starts in Southampton on coronavirus after illness forced him out feeling better this afternoon, and has been more spin bowling on home need our batters facing spin. July 8. of the team’s lone warm-up match on self-isolating in his room at the Ageas Bowl. pitches, Cricket Australia said We hope that the change to West Indies all-rounder Car- Thursday ahead of next week’s first Test “He will play no further part in the practice yesterday. one ball with have a positive los Brathwaite, who will be com- against the West Indies. Curran was 15 not match. He has been monitored by the The Dukes were introduced benefi t here.” mentating on the series for the out at stumps on Wednesday’s opening team doctor throughout and was tested to the Sheffi eld Shield in Dilip Jajodia, the owner of BBC, said, however, it would re- day of three at the Ageas Bowl, also the for Covid-19 earlier today.” 2016/17 to help prepare Aus- Dukes ball manufacturer Brit- quire more than taking a knee to venue for the first of a three-Test series. England are due to name their squad for tralia’s batsmen for the ball ish Cricket Balls, said the fi rm tackle deep-rooted racism. But he experienced sickness and diarrhoea the first Test on Saturday. used on English pitches in the understood CA’s decision. “For me it’s just cosmetic – overnight. Following medical protocols They already know they will be without leadup to the 2019 Ashes. “We... are buoyed by the po- that may ruffl e a few feathers,” established for the bio-secure campaign, captain Joe Root, who has left the squad Tim Paine’s Australia re- tential for the Dukes to return said Brathwaite, the star of the Curran remained in his room at the on- to attend the birth of his second child, tained the urn on English soil in future seasons,” he said. West Indies’ 2016 World Twen- site hotel and took no part in Thursday’s with Ben Stokes set to lead the side in his last year for the fi rst time since The decision follows com- ty20 triumph. play. “Sam Curran has had sickness and absence. 2001 with a 2-2 draw in the plaints from Australian crick- “The biggest change needs to fi ve-test series. eters that spin bowling is be- be legislative and needs to be the CA’s Head of Cricket Opera- ing driven out of the domestic reprogramming of the wider so- at Old Traff ord, July 25, will see to dress in red as they follow the ing non-smokers. “Last year I Foundation.” tions Peter Roach said it was game, in large part because of ciety.” the return of the #RedForRuth play from Manchester at home. was humbled and honoured by England captain Joe Root said: the right time to revert back unreceptive, drop-in pitches initiative, which began during Players will again wear red the support of the wider cricket “Andrew is a true legend of our to exclusive use of the Kooka- at most major venues. STRAUSS CHARITY last year’s Ashes clash at Lord’s caps, with the colour also ap- family,” Strauss said in a state- sport and it is almost impossible burra for the fi rst class compe- Top-ranked test side Aus- The third Test between England and raised more than £550,000 pearing on shirts, stumps and ment issued Thursday. to imagine what he and his fam- tition. tralia, who face second- and the West Indies will be dedi- ($690,000) for the charity. boundary boards around the “We sincerely hope that the ily went through. “The introduction of the ranked India in the home cated to the work of the Ruth But while that match saw a ground. Former England captain incredible display of generosity “Cricket plays a massive part Dukes ball has been a worth- summer, are also hoping to be Strauss Foundation, which rais- capacity crowd of 28,500, the Andrew Strauss established the and community spirit will con- in so many lives and together we while exercise, particularly in more successful playing away es money for families facing the absence of spectators from this foundation after the death of his tinue as we look to turn cricket can help other families facing the lead up to overseas Ashes in the subcontinent, where death of a parent from cancer. month’s bio-secure series means wife Ruth, aged 46, in 2018 from ‘Red for Ruth’ for a second year these same devastating circum- series where the Dukes is used pitches are more conducive to The second day of the match fans will instead be encouraged a rare form of lung cancer aff ect- to support the Ruth Strauss stances.” so well by our English oppo- spin. Gulf Times 4 Friday, July 3, 2020 SPORT

FOCUS Coaches won’t be barred from Lillard worried NBA ‘bubble’ solely due to age players won’t follow ‘I feel like there’s still a possibility for something to ‘bubble’ rules spread within that bubble’

Reuters Antonio Spurs’ Gregg Popo- Los Angeles vich, 71; the Houston Rockets’ Mike D’Antoni, 69; and the New Orleans Pelicans’ Alvin he NBA will not ex- Gentry, 65. clude coaches from D’Antoni was asked Wednes- Tparticipating in the day if the NBA had responded season’s resumption to his publicly stated plan near Orlando based solely to coach the Rockets in the on their age, coaches union “bubble.” president Rick Carlisle said “Crickets!” a laughing D’Antoni Wednesday. said, according to ESPN. NBA commissioner Adam “Which is a good thing. I Silver expressed concern haven’t heard anything, and in early June about the hopefully I don’t hear any- inclusion of older coaches in thing. They might be trying the league’s “bubble” at the to get me. I’m not answering ESPN Wide World of Sports my phone or anything, so I’ll Complex, with health off icials be in Orlando. I’ll just show stating that people 65 and old- up, knocking on the gate to er are particularly susceptible get in.” to severe symptoms if they D’Antoni added, “I get why contract the coronavirus. they want to be cautious. I However, Carlisle indicated appreciate it, and that’s great. that the league plans to re- At the end of the day, it’s view every coach individually. almost like, well, let me go to “Everybody goes through a a safe environment. Do you screening process, but we’ve want to keep me out of that been assured by the league safe environment? It’s like, that no one will be red-flagged ‘Wait a minute, let me in! This from going to Orlando based is great.’ on age alone,” Carlisle said, “So we’ll see how it goes, but according to ESPN. “That was other than being a little bit a very positive thing for us to older, I’m ready to go. There’s hear, but as I said, every- nothing else that I’d have a red body in all 22 (participating) flag or anything like that, so I markets — all staff , all players, expect to go and I expect that everybody — goes through a it’ll be an unbelievably great significant screening process. experience and safe.” “We’ll see who ends up going, Gentry said Tuesday, accord- not going, etc. But we were ing to NOLA.com, “My plans very encouraged to hear that right now are to be with the age alone would not be some- team in Orlando. I’m looking thing that would keep you forward to it really. As the The Portland Trail Blazers’ Damian Lillard (left) in action against the New York Knicks during a regular NBA game at Madison Square Garden in New York on January 1, 2020. (TNS) from going to Orlando.” season was put on hiatus, The NBA has three head we were playing really good Reuters teams full of players following all round of the playoff s — more to spread within that bubble, perform well in their eight re- coaches who fall in the vulner- basketball so hopefully we Los Angeles the rules? When we have 100% than a month after the players just with so many people doing maining regular-season games. able age category: the San can get back to that.” freedom, everybody don’t follow arrive in central Florida. so many diff erent things that Ninth-place Portland (29-37) is all the rules. “The fact that we’re going to we’ve got to follow to be safe, 3 1/2 games behind the eighth- he NBA’s ability to com- “I don’t have much confi - be in a bubble, it kind of knocks even though we’re not exposed place Memphis Grizzlies in the plete the season in its dence, but hopefully it’ll be han- it down and limits the chance of to the public. race for the fi nal Western Con- ANNOUNCEMENT TWalt Disney World Re- dled to a point where we’re not us being exposed to everybody “So for me, it’s going to be: ference playoff berth. sort “bubble” depends putting everybody at risk or in a else outside the bubble in Orlan- What time is practice, what time A ninth-place team that fi n- on participants following the dangerous position.” do,” Lillard said. “I think it is a can I get in the weight room, ishes within four games of an rules to keep everyone inside Players and staff ers will be safer situation. But I don’t think what time can I get some shots eighth-place team would get to Bryant to be featured free from the coronavirus. tested for Covid-19 upon their it’s possible for them to protect up, what’s the plan for game compete in a play-in battle for Actually achieving that goal arrival at the ESPN Wide World us 100%. I think everybody’s go- day. And then I’m gonna be in that postseason place. might not be easy, according to of Sports complex near Orlando. ing there understanding that.” the room. I’m gonna have my “It’s basically an eight-game on special NBA Damian Lillard. Following a period of self-quar- Lillard plans to keep to him- PS3, my PS4, I’m gonna have my season, and we’re starting off The Portland Trail Blazers’ antine for 36 to 48 hours, they self. studio equipment, my mic, my behind,” Lillard said. “The only All-Star guard said Wednesday will be tested again. After that, “I know there’re going to (be) laptop, I’m gonna have all my thing I asked for was the op- video game cover regarding strict adherence to there will be regular testing, and activities for us and all that stuff , books. That’s it, man. I’m gonna portunity to make it, and we’ve isolating protocols, “My confi - newcomers (including family but I mean, I’m gonna be chill- be in the room, chilling.” been given that, so we’re going dence ain’t great because you’re members) won’t be allowed into ing,” he said. “I feel like there’s Lillard might not be at Disney to show up and do what we gotta telling me you’re gonna have 22 the “bubble” until after the fi rst still a possibility for something World long unless the Blazers do. Simple as that.”

SPOTLIGHT Giannis ready for ‘toughest’ ever challenge AFP tough right now. So, whoever Los Angeles wants it more is going to be able to go out there and take it.” NBA teams playing in Orlan- ilwaukee Bucks star do will be kept in a “bubble” at Giannis Antetok- Disney World for the remainder Mounmpo believes of the season, with limited fam- The late Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant. (AFP) winning this sea- ily contact during this time, ac- son’s NBA crown will be harder cording to reports. Reuters will feature Bryant in the No. 8 than ever, dismissing sugges- Antetokounmpo believes that Los Angeles jersey he wore early in his ca- tions a championship victory will only add to the challenge reer and next-gen covers have will be diminished by the coro- over the fi nal months of the sea- Bryant wearing 24, the jersey navirus shutdown. son. BA 2K21 is releasing a number he wore in the latter As 22 teams prepare to head for “I feel like, as I said before, third cover and spe- years of his 20-season NBA Orlando for the NBA’s restart on this is the toughest title,” An- Ncial edition to hon- career. July 30, some critics have argued tetokounmpo said. “Obviously, our late Los Angeles Mamba Forever packages that the four-month pandemic you go somewhere without your Lakers star Kobe Bryant. are set to include 100,000 shutdown means there will for- family for four months, three 2K Sports announced Dam- VC (in-game currency), 10 ever be an asterisk against the months, and you haven’t played ian Lillard of the Trail Blaz- MyTeam tokens, 40 MyTeam eventual winners. basketball for three-and-a-half, ers and Pelicans rookie Zion packs (10 upon launch, 10 ad- Antetokounmpo, however, is four months. Williamson as the featured ditional packs each week for in the opposite camp insisting “Obviously, whoever team athletes on two of the game the next three weeks) and sap- that the unique circumstances wants it more, has gotta be men- covers. Lillard gets the cover phire versions of Damian Lil- of the campaign make it the tally prepared for all the situa- for the current generation lard and Zion Williamson to “toughest” NBA championship tions and gotta go out there and consoles and Williamson is be used in the game’s MyTeam in history to claim. execute. featured on the next-gen con- mode as well as various boosts “I feel like a lot of people say “Whoever wants it more, Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. (AFP) soles, including PlayStation 5. to be used in the game’s My- that there’s gonna be a star next whoever is mentally prepared Yesterday, the “Mamba For- Player mode. to this championship,” reign- for all this, what’s going on in fi rmed its return to action. do our job. “And my job is to The Bucks head into the re- ever” edition of the game was The game also includes a ing NBA MVP Antetokounmpo Orlando, that’s the team that’s “Everybody has concerns play basketball and go out there start as the favourites to reach revealed with multiple pieces Sapphire-level Kobe MyTeam said on a conference call accord- gonna come out on top.” about their health,” he said. “No- and support my teammates, and the NBA Finals from the Eastern of Bryant artwork. card, a Mamba MyPlayer uni- ing to ESPN. “I feel like, at the Antetokounmpo meanwhile is body wants to put themselves in represent the city. But for sure, Conference. The Bucks led the The Mamba Forever edition form and Black Mamba cus- end of the day, this is gonna be unfazed by the escalating coro- risk out there, but at the end of I think me, my teammates, my East by 6.5 games when the sea- of the game will retail for $100 tom MyTeam jerseys. the toughest championship you navirus situation in Florida, the day, that’s what the NBA family — especially my mom — son was halted in March, with and is available for current and Bryant was on the cover of could ever win — because the where cases have skyrocketed chose, and we’re gonna resume everybody has concerns about a record of 53 wins and only 12 next-gen consoles. the NBA 2K10 game and the circumstances are really, really in the weeks since the NBA con- the games, and we’ve all gotta our health, and my health.” losses. Covers for current consoles Legend Edition in 2017. Gulf Times Friday, July 3, 2020 5 SPORT

NBA NBA says 25 players, 10 staff ers tested positive for virus AFP Lakers sign Smith ahead of season restart New York Reuters Smith, 34, has not played in the Los Angeles NBA since an 11-game stint with here have been 25 the Cleveland Cavaliers at the NBA players who start of the 2018-19 season, when Twere positive for ree agent guard JR Smith he accused the team of tanking be- Covid-19 since test- signed a contract with the fore eventually parting ways. ing began last week ahead of FLos Angeles Lakers for the His last full season came in the planned season restart, The NBA plans to resume rest of the season, the team 2017-18 with the Cavaliers, when the league and players union the season on July 30 with announced Wednesday. he averaged 8.3 points and 2.9 re- announced yesterday. 22 teams conducting games Terms of the deal were not re- bounds in 80 games (61 starts) in In the latest results, the NBA without spectators in a bub- leased. LeBron James’ fi nal season before and National Basketball Play- ble environment at Walt Dis- The Lakers and Smith report- he left to join the Lakers. In Game 1 ers Association said 25 of 351 ney World in Orlando, Florida. edly discussed a deal since starting of the NBA Finals that year, Smith players have tested positive Teams are set to travel to Or- guard Avery Bradley opted out of infamously lost track of the score since testing started June 23. lando next Tuesday through the season restart in order to stay in a gaff e that ultimately led to Nine players tested positive Thursday to conduct training with his family. Cleveland losing to Golden State for the coronavirus from 344 camps and scrimmages from “In terms of what he brings to in overtime. Across 14-plus sea- players tested between June July 9-29. the table, just the experience fac- sons, Smith has career averages of 24-29. Seedings games, eight for tor,” Lakers coach Frank Vogel said 12.5 points and 3.2 rebounds in 971 Tests of 884 team staff mem- each team, are set to begin Wednesday. “I mean, this guy is games (395 starts). bers from June 23-29 showed July 30 with the Los Angeles a big-time player. He’s proven it NBA teams will travel to Or- 10 coronavirus positives. Lakers playing the Los An- over the course of his career. We lando between July 7-9 to begin Any player, coach or team geles Clippers and the Utah know he can help us. training camps before restarting staff member testing positive Jazz facing the New Orleans “We almost added him earlier the season July 30. must remain in self-isolation Pelicans. After those contests in the year when we added Dion The Lakers will play their fi rst until meeting public health complete the season, and Waiters and now we have the lux- game that day against the Los An- protocols and receiving clear- following any play-in games JR Smith has not played in the ury of having both. We’re not go- geles Clippers. When the season ance from a physician. that might be needed, the NBA since an 11-game stint with ing to ask him to come in and be was halted on March 11 because The NBA shut down the 2019- NBA playoff s are set to begin the Cleveland Cavaliers at the Avery Bradley. He’s going to come of the coronavirus pandemic, the 20 season on March 11 after August 17 with the NBA Finals start of the 2018-19 season. (TNS) in and be JR Smith. He’s going to Lakers held a 5.5-game lead over Utah’s Rudy Gobert tested set to begin on September just fi ll that position, more than the Clippers in the Western Con- positive for the coronavirus. 30. fi ll that role.” ference standings.

FOCUS MLB ‘Summer Camp’ opens as Can ‘dead period’ league returns to action still shape Ravens’

Dubbed “Summer Camp,” the workouts pick up where spring NFL season ahead? training left off in March. (Reuters)

‘UNFORTUNATELY, WE CAN’T ALL STAY ON THE ROOKIE DEAL OUR WHOLE CAREERS’ Reuters in Arizona and Florida. New York Some of those facilities By Jonas Shaff er were closed earlier this month, The Baltimore Sun including the Philadelphia ajor League Base- Phillies’ Clearwater, Florida, ball training centre, after players and staff fter two months of we- Mcamps reopened tested positive for the new bcam workouts, virtual on Wednesday, coronavirus. Alearning and socially marking a critical step toward Minor League Baseball, distanced team meet- bringing back America’s pas- meanwhile, said on Tuesday ings, the Ravens’ off season pro- time amid the Covid-19 out- that it was cancelling its sea- gramme is over. Now comes a break. son for the fi rst time in more so-called dead period that could MLB and its players’ asso- than a century. be teeming with news. ciation agreed to a shortened, The New York Mets and By July 28, when training 60-game 2020 campaign last New York Yankees said they camp is scheduled to open in week with no fans in attend- had worked with the gover- Owings Mills, the Ravens should ance and each team’s fi rst nor’s offi ce to bring players have some clarity on the future game on July 23 or July 24, af- from Florida to train in their of their off season’s biggest in- ter weeks of negotiations cast Big Apple homes, as new cases vestment, as well as some of doubt on whether the season surged in several states and their newest faces. They might would open at all. New York moved to impose also have some uncertainty over Wednesday marks the quarantines on some visitors. how to proceed in a league — and league’s “mandatory report- Yankees Manager Aar- with a roster — diminished by a ing date,” though players and on Boone told reporters on pandemic. staff must go through testing Wednesday that the season As the Ravens step back from prior to entering team facili- — which would normally play football for a few weeks, forces ties. The fi rst workouts and out over 162 games — will inside and outside the Under Ar- “full baseball activities” begin present numerous challenges. mour Performance Center will on Friday. “(In)the 162-game nor- continue to shape their season. Dubbed “Summer Camp,” mal season, you’re gonna face Here are four key questions to the workouts pick up where adversity and you have to be follow in the lead-up to training spring training left off in able to handle that as a major camp. March, when the Covid-19 league player,” said Boone. “I Can the Ravens stay healthy in outbreak put the season on in- think you can add another lay- a pandemic? defi nite hold and players were er, obviously, to that this year. Players have nearly four weeks allowed to leave training sites This is going to be challenging. to relax, recover and rejoice in having no more teamwide Zoom calls. But Ravens coaches and SPOTLIGHT offi cials, wary of the coronavi- The Baltimore Ravens’ Matthew Judon (left) in action during their NFL game against the Cleveland Browns at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore rus, no doubt left the team with on September 29, 2019. (TNS) a stern warning: Be safe. While Covid-19 infections National Institute of Allergy and agree to a contract extension Stanley is entering the last year tion Patrick Queen and third- Tigers become fi rst tend to be less severe for young Infectious Diseases, told CNN with their Pro Bowl outside line- of his rookie contract. Corner- rounders Devin Duvernay and people, the specter of the vi- last month. “If there is a second backer. If they can’t, he’ll play back Marlon Humphrey will Malik Harrison do not have deals rus continues to hang over pro wave, which is certainly a possi- the season on the franchise tag. follow suit in 2021. Then there’s yet. In a virtual off season, the MLB club to sign sports. The NBA and its players’ bility and which would be com- In an alternate universe where Jackson’s looming megadeal. Ravens’ front offi ce has man- union agreed to resume play this plicated by the predictable fl u the coronavirus was contained “I’m happy to be a Raven,” aged to do what many others’ season only after settling on a season, football may not happen and NFL teams were still expect- Judon said in a conference call have not. Elsewhere in the AFC sportsbook deal 113-page protocol for health and this year.” ing packed stadiums this season, last month. “I want to stay here North, the Cincinnati Bengals safety measures. Two Washing- Several Ravens standouts, in- perhaps a deal would already for as long as I play, but I un- and Pittsburgh Steelers have AFP ship group. “Our incredible fans ton Nationals veterans opted out cluding NFL Most Valuable Play- have been struck. But the pan- derstand that it’s a business and combined for zero signings. The New York will love the unique experiences of baseball’s 2020 season Mon- er Lamar Jackson, live in corona- demic’s fi nancial implications that they’ve kind of got a ‘bad- Cleveland Browns have signed and innovative off erings that day because of family concerns. virus hot spots like Florida and are far-reaching. No one knows good’ problem to have. We have just three of seven. In all, 15 NFL PointsBet’s personalised plat- Fans have been barred from at- Texas. Tight end Mark Andrews, how far short of its projected a lot of young talent, and unfor- teams have not signed a single he Detroit Tigers have form provides. We look forward tending competitions in almost who has Type 1 diabetes, could revenue the league will fall this tunately, we can’t all stay on the pick. signed a multi-year to the fan-friendly enhance- every sport across the globe. be especially at risk. The team year, just as no one knows how rookie deal our whole careers. So An NFL Player Association Tpartnership deal with ments this will bring to the In the NFL, Denver Broncos has no known Covid-19 cases, far the league might go to ease they have stuff that they have to memo last week said 186 of 255 global sportsbook op- game-day experience.” edge rusher Von Miller, Dallas but ESPN reported last week that next year’s salary cap bumpi- address, and obviously, I have draft picks, or about 73%, re- erator PointsBet, the fi rst of its PointsBet, founded in Aus- Cowboys running back Ezekiel about 10 other teams have had at ness. needs as well. If we can meet and main unsigned. Only fi ve of the kind for a Major League Base- tralia, made its US debut in Janu- Elliott and New Orleans Saints least one player test positive. On paper, the Ravens are bet- work on that, I’m A-OK with it.” 32 fi rst-round picks have their ball team, the club announced ary 2019 and features an app for coach Sean Payton have all con- As training camp nears, the ter prepared than most teams Will the Ravens have to wait contracts done. (The three teams yesterday. The move will al- bettors to have access to global tracted the virus. Even with the league’s hope is that those num- to endure hardship. Coach John even longer to sign their draft that have signed their entire low fan betting in and near the wagering. PointsBet was des- league’s commitment to enforc- bers don’t surge. The NFL needs Harbaugh said last week that he’s class? draft class — the Buff alo Bills, Tigers’ home ballpark and fol- ignated as an authorized gam- ing social distancing in team not only its stars healthy, but its “very optimistic about the fact At this point last year, the Indianapolis Colts and New lows the state of Michigan le- ing operator by MLB in a deal facilities and testing players for rank and fi le, too. Jackson could that we have a good cap situation Ravens had signed all but one England Patriots — did not have galising sports betting in 2019. granting them rights to use of- Covid-19, it will be hard to keep miss a week of August practices going forward,” an important member of their 2019 draft class a fi rst-round pick this year.) The deal begins with the up- fi cial MLB data and logos within everyone safe. Especially when and return with his 2020 ambi- distinction from previous years. — wide receiver Miles Boykin, Even with the coronavirus coming 2020 campaign even PointsBet products. players and coaches are away tions unchecked. An undrafted If Judon signs an extension, the who ended up agreeing to his set to wreak havoc on the NFL’s though no fans are set to be al- “The PointsBet team is excited from the facility. rookie on the roster bubble Ravens would likely have the rookie deal in mid-July. books over the next year, rookie lowed into MLB games in a to announce our groundbreaking “Unless players are essentially wouldn’t have that safety net. cap space to sign another player More than two months after deals will likely be unaff ected, as season shortened due to the deal with the Detroit Tigers and in a bubble — insulated from the Will Matthew Judon get a before camp or take on a modest the 2020 draft, general manager the wage scale is tied to a player’s Covid-19 pandemic. “We are Major League Baseball, becom- community and they are tested long-term deal done by the midseason contract. Eric DeCosta is at once behind draft slot. Expect a wave of sign- thrilled to welcome PointsBet ing the fi rst legal sports betting nearly every day — it would be deadline? But he’s far from the only big- that pace and ahead of much ings when rookies fi nally report as a gaming partner of the De- operator in US history to part- very hard to see how football is Barring the unforeseen, Judon ticket player the Ravens have to of the NFL’s. The Ravens have for training camp, where team troit Tigers,” said Chris Granger, ner with an MLB franchise,” said able to be played this fall,” Dr will play in Baltimore in 2020. make space for in their theoreti- signed seven of their 10 draft offi cials can conduct physicals president of sports and enter- PointsBet USA chief executive Anthony Fauci, director of the The Ravens have until July 15 to cal budgets. Left tackle Ronnie picks; only No. 28 overall selec- before deals are fi nalised. tainment for the Tigers’ owner- offi cer Johnny Aitken. Gulf Times 6 Friday, July 3, 2020 SPORT

RUGBY Let Rennie be boss, not Johnson, says Cheika AFP added Cheika, who is currently a Sydney consultant with rugby league Australia welcomes return of pro rugby aft er grim shutdown side Sydney Roosters but has re- cently been linked with jobs in Australia welcomes the return of Much like the national Wallabies game struggling at domestic ichael Cheika yes- France and England. professional rugby union today side, both provinces have fallen and international level. Bar- terday called on “He can have advice and he’s as the launch of ‘Super Rugby on hard times in recent years ring the proud ACT Brumbies, MAustralia’s director got good staff around him... it’s AU’ brings to an end a tumultu- but the Waratahs have domi- Australia’s teams struggled in of rugby Scott John- much easier to align a group ous shutdown marked by pay nated their northern neighbours Super Rugby and the Wallabies’ son take a back seat and trust from a chairman, CEO, coach, disputes, boardroom upheaval with a winning streak dating steady decline since their run new Wallabies coach Dave Ren- captain. Obviously the less and a rash of redundancies trig- back to 2013. to the 2015 World Cup final was nie to “be the boss”. numbers of people in there the gered by Covid-19. However, Brad Thorn’s Reds are evident during their quarter- Cheika, who quit as Austral- less ways to go around it. The country’s four Super confident of ending the streak final exit from the tournament in ian coach in October after their “The new coach has a lot of Rugby teams and Perth-based against the rebuilding Waratahs Japan last year. quarter-fi nal exit against Eng- experience so I think they should Western Force will play in a and are keen to give their fans a RA are hoping a number of law land, had his powers curtailed stagram video with former great New Zealander Rennie was trust him to be able to run the full home-and-away competi- reason to test the cap of 25,000 variations borrowed from rugby in late 2018 when Johnson was David Campese. “I’m personally appointed late last year but only show.” tion culminating in a two-week permitted at Lang Park under league, the more popular code appointed above him following a not a fan of the whole director assumes the role offi cially this Last week Rennie, who is cur- playoff s, putting the game back lightened social distancing in Australia, could contribute to horror run of results. of rugby concept, whether it month after seeing out his com- rently in New Zealand, said he on screens and generating restrictions. a better spectacle in Super Rug- Rugby Australia also es- be in club or at national level. I mitments with the Glasgow planned to talk with Cheika to vital revenue for cash-strapped That the teams produce a match by AU and fire up the faithful. tablished a three-man selec- think that Dave Rennie, when he Warriors. He takes the reins with pick his brains. But he indicated Rugby Australia (RA). The com- pleasing to the armchair audi- New Zealand has also tweaked tion panel of Cheika, Johnson comes in, he should be the boss,” a host of experienced players he had no problem with Johnson petition kicks off at Brisbane’s ence will be of more importance rules to speed up the game and the now-departed Michael Cheika said. “There’s only one calling it quits after the World being at the selection table. Lang Park on Friday when the for RA, whose negotiations for a for its domestic ‘Super Rugby O’Connor. boss in a footy team. The organi- Cup and Australia languishing at “I have no issues with Johno Queensland Reds host the New new broadcast deal after 2020 Aotearoa’ competition, which It had previously been left to sation should trust him to run seventh in the world. being part of that process... to be South Wales Waratahs, a clash were put on the back-burner by has proved a success despite Cheika alone to make the deci- the football. That’s no disrespect “Even in clubs, the coach has honest how I have done it in the of the country’s two traditional Covid-19. RA have had little to some huge penalty counts since sions and it did not sit well with to the other gent (Johnson). It’s to be in charge, that doesn’t past has been real group deci- rugby powerhouses. pitch in recent years, with the kicking off last month. him, admitting as much in an In- not a personal issue.” mean he’s a totalitarian dictator,” sions,” he said.

TENNIS SPOTLIGHT Djokovic, his wife test negative for Up to 20,000 fans to coronavirus attend French Open The clay-court Grand Slam event is set to start on September 27 and finish on October 11, with tickets each day to go on sale for the general public on July 16

AFP Paris

he French Open will al- Serbia’s Novak Djokovic with his wife Jelena in the stands during low up to 20,000 people Adria Tour at Novak Tennis Centre in Belgrade, Serbia, on June Tto attend each day of this 14, 2020. (Reuters) year’s tournament de- spite the coronavirus pandemic, AFP distancing and packed stands. organisers announced yesterday. Belgrade The world number one’s The French Tennis Federa- coach Goran Ivanisevic also tion (FFT) also said that up to contracted Covid-19. 10,000 people would be able to ovak Djokovic and Players had embraced across watch the fi nals and that it may his wife Jelena, who the net, played basketball and increase the capacity should the Nlast week both tested even danced in a nightclub situation with Covid-19 contin- positive for corona- during the week of the fi rst leg ue to improve in France. virus following his exhibition played in Belgrade. Djokovic The clay-court Grand Slam tournament in the Balkans, was widely criticised for host- event is set to start on Septem- have now tested negative, his ing the tournament. ber 27 and fi nish on October 11, press service said yesterday. The Serbian star issued an with tickets to go on sale for the Neither the 33-year-old apology, saying he was “so general public on July 16. player or his partner felt any deeply sorry” that the tourna- “The number of spectators symptoms, the statement said. ment “caused harm”. allowed inside the stadium will The couple had been self On Wednesday, the player be 50 percent to 60 percent of isolating since returning donated more than 40,000 its usual capacity, allowing us to Belgrade from Zadar in euros ($45,000) to Serbian to ensure the barrier measures Croatia, the town which host- town Novi Pazar which has are respected,” the FFT said in a ed the second leg of Djokovic’s been badly aff ected by the statement.It also warned rules ill-fated Adria Tour. pandemic. regarding attendance could be Four players – Djokovic, Serbia, with a population tightened in the event of another Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Co- of about seven million people, outbreak in the country. ric and Viktor Troicki – tested has registered nearly 15,000 “However, if the situation re- positive for the virus after the coronavirus infections and 281 quires more stringent hygiene event which saw little social deaths. standards that force us to reduce the number of spectators on site, the tournament organisers will refund any supplementary tick- Change to PGA virus policy lets ets sold,” the FFT added. Champ start at Detroit The US Open in New York is set to be the fi rst Grand Slam A US PGA Tour coronavirus returned three negative tests since the coronavirus lockdown, policy change involving in the 72 hours following the starting on August 24, but is to asymptomatic players al- positive test. Like all players, be played behind closed doors, lowed American Cameron Champ would still have to while Wimbledon was cancelled Champ to enter the field for test negative upon arrival at for the fi rst time since World Roland Garros will not look like this but there will be some spectators. the Rocket Mortgage Classic the course before his round. War II. that teed off yesterday in “I am extremely grateful The French Open was pushed Novak Djokovic’s ill-fated Adria while on the Roland Garros site chase discrimination”, said FFT Garros will maintain its quali- Detroit. for the tireless eff orts and back from its traditional slot in Tour which had to be ended early will be obligatory. president Bernard Giudicelli. fying event in the week before The change began Wednes- conversations between the the calendar in late May and early after the world number one and One seat will be left empty But FFT director general Jean- the main draw. Rafael Nadal day night involved players tour, my team and all of the June after France entered a near three other players tested posi- between each group of fans on Francois Vilotte stressed that will be bidding for a record- who test positive but show experts who were consulted two-month lockdown on March tive for the virus. show courts, with a maximum people should “know the risks” extending 13th men’s singles no symptoms of the deadly in order to deliver this best 17. The ATP and WTA Tours are group of four people allowed to related to their country of resi- crown, with Australian Ashleigh virus that forced a three- possible outcome,” Champ set to restart in August, having WEARING MASKS sit together, with every other dence and will not be able to be Barty defending the women’s ti- month tour shutdown before said in a statement. been suspended since March. OBLIGATORY seat to be vacant on outside reimbursed for their ticket if the tle. France has recorded almost events resumed in June. “It is a great example of Several exhibition tourna- Spectators will have to adhere courts. “General public” tickets health authorities prohibit them 30,000 deaths due to the coro- Since the return, all positive everyone being committed ments have gone ahead since, to social-distancing rules at the will be accessible to spectators from travelling to France. navirus, with more than 165,000 tests for players or caddies to working together to adapt with mixed success, including French Open and wearing a mask around the world, without “pur- Unlike the US Open, Roland confi rmed cases. required a 10-day isolation and evolve in this constantly period based on US Centers changing environment.” for Disease Control and Pre- Champ, 25, seeks his third vention (CDC) protocols. PGA crown after taking Wimbledon says thanks to NHS with strawberries After several asymptomatic the 2018 Sanderson Farms positive tour tests followed Championship and last year’s Strawberries that would have “Since the cancellation of the Charity on Monday. by negative tests and follow- Safeway Open, the third been chomped on by tennis championships, we have been “It was a lovely surprise gesture ing direct consultation with tournament of the restarted fans during the Wimbledon very focused on doing what we and a great token of appre- the CDC, the PGA decided 2019-20 US PGA season. fortnight are being sent to can to help those in our local ciation for our amazing NHS to move forward within CDC PGA players Harris English London’s NHS and frontline staff community who are undergo- staff who have been working guidelines allowing players and Chad Campbell, who as a mark of thanks for their ing hardship as a result of the tirelessly during this crisis,” CEO and caddies who test positive tested positive earlier this eff orts during the coronavirus coronavirus crisis,” AELTC chief Amerjit Chohan said. but show no Covid-19 symp- week but were asympto- pandemic. executive Richard Lewis said. Wimbledon has also been active toms to return to competition matic, will be eligible for next Ordinarily the championships “Our staff have been particularly in helping the local community if they have two negative week’s event in Dublin, Ohio, would have been in full flow this keen to do what they can to during the pandemic, providing tests at least 24 hours apart. if they enter a test regime week, but the grasscourts re- help during this time and we 200 hot meals per day to those The immediate change and return two negative tests main vacant and the strawberry were pleased that so many of in need in local boroughs. enabled Champ to be added at least 24 hours apart. and cream stalls empty. them volunteered to take part Those meals will now feature to the field for the Detroit The same situation applies Instead, with Wimbledon in the strawberry hulling op- some fresh strawberries too. Golf Club tournament hours to two asymptomatic Korn cancelled for the first time since of the 72nd anniversary of the during the fortnight are being eration during the Wimbledon Roughly 27,000 kilos of before opening round. Ferry developmental tour World War II, the All England National Health Service. hulled (de-stemmed) and por- fortnight.” strawberries and 7,000 litres of Champ tested positive players who tested positive, Club is donating 200 punnets More than 26,000 strawber- tioned by a group of staff at the The first delivery was dis- cream are usually eaten during on June 23 at last week’s Brandon Wu and Jonathan of strawberries per day ahead ries that would have been sold south west London venue. patched to St George’s Hospital the Wimbledon championships. Travelers Championship but Hodge. Gulf Times Friday, July 3, 2020 7 FOOTBALL

PREMIER LEAGUE FOCUS Mistakes cost us at West Ham, says West Ham win an unhappy Lampard Reuters London anomaly in meek helsea manager Frank Lampard blamed his Cside’s lack of attention to detail for a surprise 3-2 defeat at Premier league rele- gation battlers West Ham United on Wednesday. Lampard’s side dominated for long periods but relegation battle were stunned late on when An- driy Yarmolenko slotted home an 89th-minute winner follow- Yarmolenko's 89th-minute goal helps West Ham stun Chelsea ing a counter-attack by the home side. Chelsea could have moved Reuters into third spot and taken a huge London step towards ensuring a Champi- ons League berth with a victory but instead are fourth and are ntil West Ham United’s 3-2 home only two points above in-form win over Chelsea on Wednesday Manchester United and Wolver- Unight, restart had certainly not hampton Wanderers. amounted to a fresh start for the “It happens, it is the Premier club’s languishing at the wrong end of the League... we dominated the Premier League. In fact, it was almost dis- game in terms of possession, but ingenuous to label it as a ‘battle’ for sur- make mistakes and teams will vival, so meek were the performances of hurt you,” Lampard said. “I’m Norwich City, Aston Villa, Bournemouth, not happy with any of the goals. Watford and West Ham. There were details in the game Until West Ham fi nally displayed the which we knew, but we lost be- necessary resolve required when at- cause we didn’t get them right.” tempting to beat the dreaded drop, the After beating Manchester City grand sum of points accrued in the 15 last week and then winning at games played by the bottom fi ve since the Leicester City at the weekend to it up. Chelsea were pushing for resumption of the season was three. It reach the FA Cup semi-fi nals, a winner when they were caught makes grim reading. Chelsea were in a buoyant mood out by substitute Yarmolenko. Bottom club Norwich have lost all ahead of the derby. But their fi ne “It is why we are fi ghting for three, scoring none and conceding eight. run since the resumption of the top four not one or two, because Bournemouth, now 19th, have lost all season came to a shuddering halt we don’t get things right as much three, scoring once and conceding seven. as they suff ered a second league as the big boys do,” Lampard Aston Villa, in 18th, picked up two defeat of the season against lowly said. “I am not happy with to- points from their four games while Wat- West Ham. night but at the same time we are ford, the only team to beat Liverpool this Willian gave them the lead two points ahead of Manches- season, appear to have fallen back to their from the penalty spot but goals ter United, who have been going early-season form, also picking up one by Tomas Soucek and Michail great for some time. I think at point from nine. Shortly before West Antonio either side of the break times we have played really well Ham kicked off against Chelsea, Norwich put West Ham ahead, before this season. As a group we need were hammered 4-0 at Arsenal and, more Willian’s sweet free kick levelled to fi nd more consistency.” shockingly, Bournemouth were demol- ished 4-1 at home by Newcastle — a result that suggests Eddie Howe’s south coast- West Ham United’s Andriy Yarmolenko (right) scores past Chelsea’s Antonio Rudiger during the Premier League match. (Reuters) ers are sinking fast. RB Leipzig get provisional green light Which is why substitute Andriy Yar- up to 16th place with 30 points, three escape bid, the fi xtures look grim for the (the players are not giving all), especially for fans to return next season molenko’s 89th-minute breakaway win- above Villa. Manager Davis Moyes was others. Villa are at record-seeking Liv- with the manner of the games at the mo- ner for West Ham felt so massive. The quick to point out that one win was not erpool, Bournemouth are at Manchester ment. With the lack of a crowd impacting Berlin: RB Leipzig were granted incidence of infections,” a city roars of joy inside the empty London Sta- enough, although his suggestion that United and Watford, one point above the perceived eff orts, I think,” Howe said af- provisional permission yes- off icial said. “For this reason, dium from West Ham’s players, coaching his side might need three more victories trapdoor, go to a chastened Chelsea side. ter defeat by Newcastle. “I can see close terday to allow up to 20,000 the public health department crew and assorted security staff could might be overly cautious. This is the fi rst Premier League survival at hand what it means to the players, how spectators to attend their home has confirmed the hygiene have been heard right up their Thames They go to mid-table Newcastle on scrap played out in empty stadiums — much they are hurting.” games next season, raising concept of RB Leipzig.” Estuary heartland. Sunday with a chance to establish a safe- perhaps a mitigating factor in the lack of The suff ering shows no sign of eas- hopes Bundesliga fans could Supporters would only be In the context of a relegation ‘battle’ ty cushion. While adrift Norwich’s home spark displayed by those near the bottom. ing though with Bournemouth’s last six return across Germany. able to sit — the terraces would more akin to lemmings headings for the game against sixth-from-bottom Bright- Vociferous home support when the games including clashes with Tottenham The top-flight season remain empty — and face cliff edge, West Ham’s win felt like nine on and Hove Albion on Saturday off ers stakes are high can make a diff erence. Hotspur, Leicester City, Manchester City finished last Saturday, with the masks would be compulsory. points rather than three. It moved them perhaps a last chance to kickstart a late “It’s very easy from the outside to think and Everton. last nine rounds of matches But the club reacted cautiously, played behind closed doors as state politicians in Saxony after the Bundesliga resumed must first lift the current ban SPOTLIGHT in mid-May following the coro- on events with more than 1,000 navirus lockdown. people and the infection rate Clubs including champi- would have to remain low. ons Bayern Munich, Borussia “The public health depart- French Prosecutors want Benzema to stand trial over scandal Dortmund and Cologne have ment will support the concept AFP Benzema, 32, is suspected of encour- national side, has also never since played been working on hygiene in principle if the pandemic Versailles, France aging his former teammate in the France for France. Cisse had been the fi rst to in- concepts which could allow situation continues to develop team Valbuena to pay blackmailers who form Valbuena that the video existed but fans back into their grounds for positively,” said Ulrich Wolter, threatened to make the intimate video insists he was simply warning the foot- the 2020/21 Bundesliga season, an RB Leipzig board member. rench prosecutors yesterday asked public. According to the prosecution, baller. currently ear-marked to start The German Football League for ex-national team star and Benzema evoked the existence of the vid- Benzema is the second highest scorer on either September 11 or 18. (DFL) has yet to comment on FReal Madrid footballer Karim eo to Valbuena while the French team was in La Liga this season for a Real side that However, RB Leipzig are the the developments. Benzema to face trial on charges preparing in October 2015 for a friendly is chasing just a second Spanish title in first top-flight outfit to get the On Wednesday, DFL chief of involvement in an alleged attempt to match against Armenia in Nice. eight years. However, French football fed- provisional green light. The executive Christian Seifert blackmail fellow player Mathieu Valbuena Benzema contends all that took place eration president Noel Le Graet has said health authority in the east said the league can not decide over a sex tape almost fi ve years ago. was a simple and friendly conversation on a number of occasions that Benzema’s German city has approved the the number of fans allowed Prosecutors in Versailles outside Paris to warn his international teammate that international career was eff ectively over. club’s plan to allow their Red into grounds at each of the 18 said they want Benzema tried on charges such a tape existed. Valbuena, however, After being left out of the France squad Bull Arena, which has a usual Bundesliga clubs as permission of complicity in attempted blackmail alleges that there was the implication for Euro 2016, Benzema accused the na- capacity of 41,000, to be half has to come from each local over the incident in 2015. If convicted, he had to pay to keep it out of the public tional coach Didier Deschamps of bowing full on matchdays. health authority. “There can be he could face a fi ve-year prison sentence. Four others should also face trial, they sphere. Benzema was indicted and briefl y “to pressure from a racist part of France”. “RB Leipzig has presented no off -the-peg solution,” Seifert Benzema’s lawyer, Sylvain Cormier, said said, but not former Liverpool and French detained in November 2015 just before But Deschamps has said that not se- a hygiene concept which is said “I am not a fan of generally he was “not at all surprised” by the re- international Djibril Cisse who had pre- France was the next year to host the Euro lecting Benzema was better for the “bal- sustainable from the point committing to 3,000, 4,000 or quest. “These are false and unjustifi ed viously been implicated in the probe. It 2016 football championship. He has nev- ance” and “harmony” of his squad. “As of view of the public health 5,000 spectators,” he added, as charges,” he added. “It’s in line with what is now up to the court to decide if a trial er since added to his 81 appearances for long as Didier Deschamps is coach, I have department and which is suit- the infection rate varies in each the prosecution has been doing in this should take place and fi x a date for the France and insists he is innocent. no chance of getting back into the France able to significantly reduce the of Germany’s 16 states. case from the start.” process to begin. Valbuena, who played 52 times for the team,” Benzema said in 2017.

ROUND-UP SERIE A Man City verdict on Sanchez shines as Inter Milan rout Brescia AFP cari, the second a magnifi cent dipping Euro ban expected Milan 30-yard strike, put SPAL on top but the home side lost Marco D’Alessandro to a red card before half-time for a poor chal- week of July 13 lexis Sanchez scored a penalty lenge on Theo Hernandez. and set up two goals as Inter Zlatan Ibrahimovic returned to action anchester City will the appeal, City will be able to AMilan thrashed relegation can- for the fi rst time since Italian football’s discover whether complete their campaign in the didates Brescia 6-0 in Serie A restart following a calf injury, replacing Mtheir appeal against 2019-20 Champions League. on Wednesday night, while city rivals AC the in-form Ante Rebic on the hour, but a two-year ban from Milan snatched a last-gasp draw away to it was another substitute Rafael Leao who European competition has been HAKIMI JOINS INTER lowly SPAL. gave Milan hope with a calm fi nish on 79 successful the week of July 13, FROM REAL MADRID Sanchez teed up Ashley Young to volley minutes. the Court of Arbitration for Inter Milan have signed full- Inter ahead at San Siro after just fi ve min- Milan stayed seventh despite the late Sport said yesterday. “The fi nal back Achraf Hakimi from Real utes and the Chile forward dispatched a fi ghtback and are two points behind Na- decision will be made during the Madrid, the two clubs an- spot-kick to double the lead following a poli, who were visiting fourth-placed week of July 13,” CAS secretary nounced. Inter will pay Madrid foul on Victor Moses. Danilo D’Ambrosio Atalanta late last night, in the battle for general Matthieu Reeb said. 40mn euros ($44.9mn) for powered in a third just before half-time the fi nal Europa League berth. City were banned by UEFA and Hakimi, with a further fi ve mn from a looping cross by Young, with Two Gaston Ramirez penalties earned handed a 30mn euro ($34mn) euros due in variables, according Roberto Gagliardini rising to head home Sampdoria a crucial 2-1 win at Lecce, who fi ne for allegedly overstating to reports in Italy. a Sanchez free-kick as Inter grabbed a had equalised through a Marco Mancosu sponsorship revenue to hide The 21-year-old has signed a fourth on 53 minutes. spot-kick, to push Claudio Ranieri’s side that they had not complied with fi ve-year contract with Antonio Christian Eriksen bagged his fi rst Se- Inter Milan’s Alexis Sanchez (second right) is brought down by Brescia’s Alessandro four points clear of the relegation zone. fi nancial fair play (FFP) rules Conte’s side. Hakimi joined Ma- rie A goal since his January move from Semprini (right) during the Italian Serie A match in Milan on Wednesday. (AFP) Hellas Verona beat Parma 3-2 cour- between 2012 and 2016. The drid’s youth set-up in 2006 but Tottenham, forcing in from point-blank tesy of a late Matteo Pessina goal, while Premier League club has stead- struggled to establish himself range after an excellent Jesse Joronen games still to play. SPAL surrendered a two-goal lead and Frenchman Gregoire Defrel netted twice fastly denied UEFA’s allegations. in the fi rst team and has spent save denied Romelu Lukaku. Antonio Brescia, who were again without Mario squandered two precious points in their as Sassuolo won 3-1 at Fiorentina. Last month CAS held a three- the last two seasons on loan at Candreva completed the romp two min- Balotelli due to an ongoing contract dis- fi ght against relegation as a 94th-minute Cagliari drew 1-1 away to Bologna as day hearing via videoconference Borussia Dortmund. Hakimi utes from time with a crisp low drive into pute, dropped to the foot of the table. own goal by Francesco Vicari gifted Milan Giovanni Simeone struck early in the sec- due to coronavirus restrictions. scored nine goals in 45 appear- the corner as Inter clawed back to within They remain eight points from safety and a late equaliser in a 2-2 draw. First-half ond half for the visitors following Musa Regardless of the outcome of ances for Dortmund this season. eight points of leaders Juventus with nine are winless in 14 games. goals from Mattia Valoti and Sergio Floc- Barrow’s goal in fi rst-half stoppage time.

Friday, July 3, 2020 GULF TIMES FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT Qatar’s ambitions growing by the day, says Almoez Ali ‘In 2022, we’ll play the World Cup in our home country, which means we won’t be intimidated’

lmoez Ali’s career to date can against a great team like Argentina. ing the team are guaranteed a place be measured by some key It’s true that we lost, but we overcame in the fi nals as hosts? Afootballing milestones. After the fear inherent in playing against big We want to qualify for the [2023] taking part in the FIFA U-20 teams, which will help us in the future. Asian Cup as group winners. We played World Cup New Zealand 2015, the up- against some tough teams such as In- and-coming Qatari forward stole the Q. You took part in the FIFA U-20 dia, who gave us a hard time in Doha. show at the 2019 AFC Asian Cup, where World Cup in New Zealand. What We also had a hard-fought victory he led his country to their maiden con- was that experience like and what against Oman. We think of the quali- tinental title, fi nishing as tournament did you learn from it? fi ers as fi nals and, as defending cham- top scorer. He then had the rare privi- World Cup tournaments are very dif- pions, we want to make the tournament lege of playing at the legendary Mara- ferent from continental ones, be they in China to prove that last year’s title cana Stadium. are qualifying games or competitions was no fl uke. We’re going to be a tough Despite achieving so much at such a like the Asian Cup, because they bring team to beat in the coming years. young age, the sky is the limit for Ali. together the best teams in the world. The 23-year old forward is determined It was a very tough tournament and Q. Speaking of the FIFA World Cup, to lead Qatar to further successes at the we learned a lot. As young players, we how do you see Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, where he were very enthusiastic and motivated. tournament? hopes Al Annabi can go as far as possi- Things are diff erent today. In 2022, I can say that everyone who comes ble at the fi rst World Cup to be staged in we’ll play the World Cup in our home to Qatar will be surprised by what the Middle East. country, which means we won’t be in- the country has done. People will be In an interview to FIFA.com, Ali talks timidated. Moreover, we’ll have the amazed by the world-class stadiums, about his achievements to date, per- confi dence of playing on home soil as such as the shell-shaped Al Janoub sonal ambitions, the Qatar 2022 quali- well as the massive support of our fans. Stadium, which refl ects the heritage fi ers and what the national team hope of Al Wakrah, a city known for fi sh- to achieve at their home tournament in Q. Half of the current Qatari squad ing, and Al Bayt Stadium, which takes two years’ time. participated in New Zealand. To its name from bayt al sha’ar – tents what extent has the harmony be- historically used by nomadic people in Q. Qatar had a fantastic 2019 Asian tween that group contributed to Al the desert. They will also get to see the Cup. What did you gain personally Annabi’s fi ne performances? modern Khalifa International Stadium, from that tournament? There is great harmony as a result of and Al Rayyan Stadium with its glow- We started out aiming to get past the our participation in the toughest tour- ing façade, as well as Al Thumama Sta- quarter-fi nals. After the group stage, nament for our age group in New Zea- dium, which is an architectural master- we overcame Iraq and Korea Republic land. That event made us dream big, piece. Fans from all over the world will to make the semi-fi nals, where we de- something that went unnoticed with be impressed by the unique designs of feated the hosts. At that point we be- us being so young at the time. No one the stadiums, which refl ect the heritage came more ambitious, and we went on realised quite how much these young of the Qatari people. to claim the title. It was such a great players loved football and their national tournament. My personal goal was to team, especially after reaching a World Q. What will the team’s goals be be among the best strikers there. Cup. Our ambitions continue to grow, when they host the World Cup? My experience should motivate and we’re no longer intimidated by the Our goal is to make His Highness young players to pursue their dreams, prospect of playing big tournaments the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al- work hard and possibly do what I did now that we have competed at the U-20 Thani and all the Qatari people proud. by playing for their national team and World Cup, won the Asian Cup and We want to make everyone proud of achieving their goals. played the Copa America. All of this this team and the generation of players Forward Almoez Ali stole the show at the 2019 AFC Asian Cup, where he led Qatar to their maiden continental title, finishing will ensure we play the 2022 World Cup who have achieved enormous success- Q. After your stellar performance at as tournament top scorer. without any fear. es. We have big ambitions, but I can’t the Asian Cup, you scored Qatar’s talk about them now as they’re growing fi rst goal at the Copa America. How Honestly, I’m proud to have played at scored to start our comeback (Qatar in this prestigious competition. We Q. Qatar are currently top of Group by the day. But I can promise you that do you fi nd playing against the South a big tournament like the Copa Amer- went on to draw 2-2). It was an hon- learned a lot from the Copa America E in the Asian qualifi ers for Qatar we will spring some surprises and go as American giants and how has Qatar ica. I remember we were behind in our our for every Qatari player and for the and played well there. We’ve reached a 2022. What are your ambitions for far as possible in the tournament. benefi ted from that tournament? fi rst game (against Paraguay) when I national team as a whole to take part level we never dreamed of; we played this campaign, especially consider- (fi fa.com)

FOCUS PREMIER LEAGUE Staying connected with the next Sheffi eld United deal major generation inspires youth across the world blow to Spurs’ Euro ambitions By Nasser Al Khori he cheers of fans in a stadium, the laughter of children during a fi ve- Ta-side game at school or the feeling of connection you get with someone on public transport wearing the same jer- sey as you when you are heading to a game. These are just three simple yet important elements of what makes football the most loved sport on the planet. But the ongoing pandemic has changed everything: many community pitches are empty and children wait at home to kick a football around with friends, imagining what it would be like to play for their fa- vourite team. These young people need the motivation to stay healthy and active during this diffi cult time. In this time of crisis, we realised that it was vital that Generation Amazing con- tinues with our mission of using the power of football to connect, empower and unite young people across the world. This is our Sheff ield United’s Sander Berge (left) scores against Tottenham Hotspur yesterday. (AFP) duty towards youth everywhere. While Generation Amazing’s Programmes Director Nasser al-Khori. social distancing required us to stop our AFP fi rst defeat since the restart. The the goal for a handball by Moura, physical programming, we asked ourselves: learning experience that they can carry with to lead and make positive changes in their Sheff ield, United Kingdom Blades, winners for the fi rst time who had the ball kicked against “How are we going to keep young people ac- them for the rest of their lives. Our youth communities. in fi ve games following the hia- his arm as he tumbled under tive and inspired at home?” advocates are taking the lead across many Since our transition to online program- tus, moved two points above Tot- pressure from several United At the start of April, we at Generation of these chats as they listen to advice from ming we have received fantastic feedback heffi eld United dam- tenham into seventh place, keep- players. Mourinho was disgusted Amazing decided to launch daily football for footballing icons and learn from their ex- and engagement from our Qatari and glo- aged Tottenham’s bid to ing alive their hopes of qualifying with what appeared to be an ex- development sessions on our social media periences. We have worked tirelessly with bal audiences, with over 100,000 views on Squalify for the Champi- for European action. tremely harsh decision. channels to help young people in Qatar and partners, including Qatar National Library our live sessions over 10 exciting weeks. ons League and rekindled United had not managed more Tottenham were struggling across the world stay connected, active and and Maktaba Children’s Library, to deliver Of course, we faced challenges during this their own European ambitions than one shot on target in any to fi nd their rhythm and United inspired. We designed tailored activities for educational reading sessions of our books transition, but whether those were techni- after surviving a VAR contro- of their previous three Premier nearly doubled their lead when home settings that are being delivered by which impart sporting values to young chil- cal issues or ensuring an eff ective delivery, versy in their 3-1 win yesterday. League matches, going without David McGoldrick shot into the our coaches. dren. Sport is an important tool to share val- these challenges helped us to learn impor- Chris Wilder’s side took the lead a goal on each occasion. It took side-netting early in the second These sessions are suitable for everyone ues of leadership, teamwork and discipline. tant lessons. through Sander Berge’s fi rst half less than 60 seconds for George half. Ben Osborn was making his and designed to help people of all ages. Any- We have also hosted regular gender Online sessions can help us deliver foot- strike at Bramall Lane. Baldock to get an eff ort on tar- fi rst Premier League start and the one can tune in and perform the exercises at equality sessions that revolve around the ball for development programming beyond But Tottenham were denied an get, but Tottenham keeper Hugo United midfi elder had a key role home by picking the correct intensity level. important role that women play in sports the schools or communities we are active in. equaliser moments later when Lloris dived to his left to make the as they struck again in the 69th Physical and mental health are inherently and society, and the vital need for involv- It connects us with parents and off ers sup- Harry Kane’s goal was chalked save. Kane couldn’t hit the target minute. tied to each other and we want to motivate ing and supporting the development female port at home even beyond times of crisis. We off by VAR for a dubious hand- from Steven Bergwijn’s pass and Breaking into the area, Os- people to get rid of stress through exercise. sporting participation. Our youth advocate, have gained the experience necessary for us ball against Lucas Moura. Lucas Tottenham were punished as born’s deft pass picked out Enda We also recognise the signifi cance of con- Shouq Al Sulaiti, has been inspirational as to continue this delivery moving forward, appeared to have the ball kicked Berge put the Blades ahead in the Stevens and he squared for the versations and how they play a huge role in she has led our gender equality discussions allowing us to expand our programmes by against his arm in the build-up 31st minute. unmarked Mousset to slot home inspiring young people. So, while it is fun on Instagram Live, including empowering utilising new technology and innovative to Kane’s strike and Tottenham After spreading the ball wide from close-range for his fi rst goal to watch our favorite players on the pitch, it chats with Shaima Abdullah, goalkeeper for platforms. manager Jose Mourinho com- to Chris Basham, Berge broke since December. McBurnie put is extremely important to us at Generation the Qatar women’s team and a Generation It is the global appeal of the beauti- plained angrily on the touchline. into the Tottenham area, col- the result beyond doubt when he Amazing to learn from their experiences Amazing coach, Amalie Thestrup, from our ful game which helps us to connect young Lys Mousset and Oli McBurnie lected the return pass and drilled tapped in from Berge’s cross in and provide young people with a platform to partner club, AS Roma, and Lisa Akero from people and bridge cultures and overcome rubbed salt into Mourinho’s his low shot into the far corner. the 84th minute after more slop- connect and be able to actively engage with The International Federation of Red Cross challenging situations so eff ectively. When wounds as they both netted for It was the Norway midfi elder’s py Tottenham defending. Kane their role models. As such, we began host- and Red Crescent Societies. football is able to safely recover and young United after the interval. Kane’s fi rst goal since his January move had scored against 28 of 29 teams ing live chats with star players, including The gender equality sessions highlight the people and laughter return to the 30 com- last minute goal was no conso- from Genk. Tottenham thought he has played against in the Pre- the likes of Xavi Hernandez, Cafu and Tim achievements of females in sport, as well as munity pitches we have built across the lation for Tottenham, who are they had equalised two minutes mier League, with United the Cahill – FIFA World Cup legends who are all inspiring stories of young women who over- Middle East and Asia, we will be ready once now in grave danger of missing later as Lucas sprinted forward only ones to hold him in check. ambassadors for the Supreme Committee came obstacles to become who they are to- more to continue to serve youth through the out on next season’s Champi- and, despite being pushed over, He got off the mark against for Delivery & Legacy. day. Generation Amazing is working actively inspirational power of football. ons League. They sit nine points managed to knock the ball onto them with a simple fi nish from Youth from all parts of the world engage to achieve a 50% female participation rate in (qatar2022.qa) behind fourth placed Chelsea Kane, who cut inside and fi red Son’s pass, but his 199th career in these sessions and pose questions to their our programmes to ensure that young girls Nasser al-Khori is Programmes and seven adrift of fi fth placed home. Kane’s celebrations were club goal was far too late to avoid role models – which provides a memorable and women can continue to be empowered Director at Generation Amazing Manchester United after their curtailed when VAR disallowed a painful defeat.