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QATAR EXXONMOBIL OPEN Djoko survives Struff scare, Murray beaten in doubles ‘I needed more time to get the engine started I guess. It’s my first match of the year. You never know how you’re going to start. As well as you have trained in the preparation period and the days prior to the tournament, it’s a diff erent scenario when you are out there on the courts amidst the crowd’

By Joe Koraith Doha

t was a stumble out of the blocks that could have proved costly. But then again, such a scenario would have been ‘just another day at the Ijob’ for Novak Djokovic. At the Qatar ExxonMobil Open yes- terday, the defending champion was down 1-5 in the fi rst set during his opening match against Jan-Lennard Struff . The German, ranked world No. 63, had come out attacking and this had unsettled Djokovic. But then the gears clicked and the Serb won fi ve games in a row to snuff out the possi- bility of a challenge. There was a minor hiccup when Struff won the 12th game to make it 6-6. But Djokovic dominated the tie- breaker, and took the fi rst set. With this fi ghtback under his belt, the spec- tators at the Khalifa Complex knew that the second set would be a mere formality for Djokovic. And it was. The world No. 2 won his fi rst match 7-6 (1), 6-3 to register his fi rst win of 2017. “I needed more time to get the en- gine started I guess. It’s my fi rst match of the year. You never know how you’re going to start,” said Djokovic. “As well as you have trained in the preparation period and the days prior to the tour- nament, it’s a diff erent scenario when RESULTS (FIRST ROUND) you are out there on the courts amidst the crowd,” he added. Fernando Verdasco (Spain) beat Vasek Pospisil Djokovic acknowledged that the ag- (Canada) 7-5, 6-0; Radek Stepanek (Czech gressive approach from Struff helped Republic) beat 8-Marcos Baghdatis (Cyprus) in his opponent gaining the initial up- 6-4, 5-3 (Baghdatis retired); 4-David Goff in per hand. “I was a bit fl at on my feet, (Belgium) beat Robin Haase (Netherlands) and Struff , credit to him for playing 7-6(4), 6-2; Horacio Zeballos (Argentina) beat aggressive, hitting the serves well, and Florian Mayer (Germany) 6-7(3), 6-4, 7-6(9); ripping the ball from the baseline. Also Nicolas Almagro (Spain) beat Paolo Lorenzi things were coming in, so that resulted Novak Djokovic of Serbia beat (Italy) 7-6(2), 4-6, 6-3; 2-Novak Djokovic (Serbia) in a 1-5 defi cit.” German Jan-Lennard Struff (inset) beat Jan-Lennard Struff (Germany) 7-6(1), 6-3; And then, just like we have seen 7-6(1), 6-3 in his first round match Dustin Brown (Germany) beat Facundo Bagnis him do in the past, his fi ghter instinct of the Qatar ExxonMobil Open, at (Argentina) 6-1, 6-7(2), 6-4; Jiri Vesely (Czech kicked in and Struff had to concede. the Khalifa International Tennis Republic) beat Anil Yueksel (Turkey) 6-2, 6-3 “I stayed composed because I knew, I Complex yesterday. (Reuters) believed that I could fi nd the rhythm. I started reading his serve better, and that’s what happened,” added Djoko- my life, and I think the experience of ess of continuing my training each day datis. The Cyrpus player retired from That’s why it was not easy to play fast ceived a wild card into the singles main vic. “I can certainly play better. But, knowing what to do, you know, in what and getting myself in a better shape as his match against qualifi er Radek like I used to do,” said Goffi n yesterday. round and will take on Russian Karen again, it’s fi rst match of the year. I particular moment helps.” the tournament progresses.” Stepanek with the scoreline at 6-4, “But at the end, I’m really happy with Khachanov today. know that I can’t be at my top the very He credited the ‘return’ of his return Djokovic’s next opponent will be Ar- 5-3. the way I fought in the fi rst set. Then I World No. 1 Andy Murray, partner- fi rst match, but I believe that the proc- of serve, which helped him claw back gentine Horacio Zeballos, who caused The other seeded player in action won the fi rst set and was much better ing Poland’s Mariusz Fyrstenberg, lost ess is right.” from a huge four-game defi cit. “I was an upset by defeating German Florian yesterday, ended up in the winners’ col- in the second.” 2-6, 4-6 to the Spanish-Serbian pair- Djokovic said that it was his previ- returning very well from 2-5 down. To Mayer 6-7(3), 6-4, 7-6 (9) in a keenly umn. Fourth seed David Goffi n endured From Qatar’s perspective, local boy ing of David Morreno and Nenad Zi- ous experience in such situations that the end of the match the return was contested battle, especially the third a tough fi rst set against Robin Haase but Mubarak Shannan Zayid partnering monjic. From Murray’s perspective, it helped him emerge victorious. “In going quite well. I also served well at set tie-breaker. Zeballos in currently ended up victorious 7-6(4), 6-2. Tunisian Malek Jaziri, lost their dou- will be a good way to get some court these particular circumstances, you the important moments, including ranked 71st while Mayer is at 50. “I was happy to win the fi rst set. It bles fi rst round match to the French practice. The Brit will be in action to- just need to fi nd a way. I’ve been in the tiebreak. So, there are positives to The biggest casualty yesterday was not an easy set. It was really slow team of Jeremy Chardy and Fabrice day against Frenchman Jeremy Chardy these situations before many times in take,” he said. “I just focus on the proc- though was eighth seed Marcos Bagh- conditions tonight with the humidity. Martin 2-6, 3-6. But Zayid has re- in his opening round singles match. Racing car simulator returns to ExxonMobil Qatar stand he racing car simulator is ing harness, gear lever paddles, battle for the fastest lap time. back at the Public Village and a quick release carbon fibre ExxonMobil Qatar has been Tthis year to delight fans steering wheel, allowing drivers to the title sponsor of the Qatar and tennis stars alike at the Qatar experience the unique move- ExxonMobil Open for 23 years, ExxonMobil Open 2017. The car ment of the car under realistic ac- and a partner of the Qatar Tennis has been a main attraction of the celeration, braking and cornering Federation for 25 years. As the stand for the past several years, conditions. A built-in 5.1 surround title sponsor of the esteemed providing an interactive and sound system also provides users tournament, ExxonMobil Qatar realistic racing experience. with a full-sensory experience. organizes a number of exciting, Based on a full-sized specifica- This year, the likes of Jeremy hands-on activities for people of tion racing car, the state-of-the-art, Chardy, Horia Tecau, Lukas all ages to enjoy at its stand in the aerodynamically engineered Lacko, Jan Hernych, and Sergiy Public Village. simulator off ers unrivalled au- Stakhovsky have all visited the These activities include the rac- thenticity, down to its suspension, ExxonMobil Qatar stand to try out ing car simulator, the 'ExxonMobil front and rear wings, and tires. the simulator. The fierce competi- Minute' competition, and opportu- It includes an authentic, padded tion on the court has extended to nities to meet the tennis stars and cockpit headrest, four-point rac- the stand as players continue to receive a signed tennis ball. Gulf Times 2 Tuesday, January 3, 2017 TENNIS

ROUND-UP Nadal hopes schedule Winning return to change brings success action for Federer ‘For a first match it was great, because obviously expectations were quite low. For three and four weeks now I have stopped thinking of it (the knee). I don't have any pain. But I am in a way sad it (the comeback) is over, because I enjoyed it so much, I feel a bit relieved but sad’

Reuters Perth AFP ules,” he added. “Being here in Brisbane Brisbane is good news for me. I like Australia. Last year I decided n emotional Roger Federer made already to come here before. I an impressive comeback to tennis panish superstar Rafael don’t know if that’s going to help yesterday with an easy win over Nadal hopes a dramatic me better or not — I’ll tell you Great Britain’s Dan Evans at the Schange to his longstand- after Melbourne.” HopmanA Cup in Perth. ing schedule will lead to success Nadal arrived in Brisbane after The Swiss champion, who has been in the Australian Open later this winning the Mubadala World out of action for six months due to injury, month. After opening his season Tennis Championship exhibi- helped his country make a clean sweep of in Doha for seven of the past tion tournament in Abu Dhabi the tie against the Brits when he cruised to eight years, Nadal has this year on Saturday, proving he has victory in 61 minutes 6-3, 6-4. opted to begin his Melbourne recovered from the wrist injury Teammate Belinda Bencic also beat campaign at the Brisbane Inter- that plagued him in 2016. Heather Watson before the Swiss pair tri- national. “I played well in Abu Dhabi. I umphed in the dead mixed doubles rubber. It will be the first time since played three good matches and The men’s singles was Federer’s fi rst Sydney in 2009 that Nadal will that’s important for me,” he said. match after a half-year break due to knee have played an Australian ATP “Last year I was playing great and back injuries, which saw him slide tournament in the lead-up to the but I got injured in the worst out of the top 10 for the fi rst time since year’s first Grand Slam. moment possible. I’m happy to late 2002. The 35-year-old, who entered The 30-year-old said he de- be back in competition again. 2017 ranked 16th—his lowest placing since cided to change his schedule to Abu Dhabi was a good start. I 2001—admitted he felt emotional on his give himself the best chance of need to continue that way.” return to the court but said the knee didn’t acclimatising to the Australian A relaxed Nadal, who moments trouble him at all. summer. earlier had been swamped by “For a fi rst match it was great, because “Doha has worked well for fans as he held a koala outside obviously expectations were quite low,” he me in the past but Brisbane will the Queensland Tennis Centre, said. “For three and four weeks now I have help me adapt and get used to insisted that if he was fully fit he stopped thinking of it (the knee). I don’t Australian conditions, which are could add to his tally of 14 Grand have any pain. But I am in a way sad it (the a little bit tougher because of Slam singles titles. comeback) is over, because I enjoyed it so the weather,” he said on arrival “I cannot predict the future much, I feel a bit relieved but sad.” in Brisbane yesterday. (but) I can say if I am healthy, I Despite plenty of practice in Dubai in re- “Every year is diff erent. All the believe that I can do it,” he said. cent weeks, Federer said it was important players are changing sched- “If not, I will be at home fishing.” to test himself in an actual match. He fi rst hurt his knee after a semi-fi nal loss to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open in January while fi lling a bath for his children. He required minor surgery on a Qatar ExxonMobil Open torn meniscus and was then hampered by a back injury which forced him out of the French Open. mixed team event in Perth for the fi rst time 6-3 in their men’s singles match and then hometown favourite Shuai Peng 6-3, 7-5. The 17-time Grand Slam singles cham- since 2002, after winning it a year earlier teamed with Kristina Mladenovic to win Third seed Johanna Konta of Britain pion then suff ered another knee complaint with Martins Hingis. the deciding mixed doubles rubber. made a strong start to the tournament at Wimbledon in his semi-fi nal loss to Mi- He added that his knee has given him Germany had earlier taken the lead when with a dominant 6-2, 6-0 performance los Raonic, before electing to rest for the absolutely no worries for at least a month. Andrea Petkovic benefi ted from an early over Caga Buyukakcay, taking less than an remainder of the year. “It’s nice that way that I’ve ben able to arrival in Australia and an unorthodox hour to defeat her Turkish opponent. But there were immediate signs of the get rid of it entirely. Probably there will be preparation to put in a quality performance Konta enters 2017 as a top 10 player for Federer class against the 66th-ranked some minor maintaining to be done, but against Mladenovic, winning 6-2, 6-1. the fi rst time in her career. She will face Evans, as he opened the match with an nothing serious.” “I normally spend Christmas with the 27-year-old American veteran Vania King. ace and then reeled off a couple of superb Federer also admitted that he was quite family but I decided it was time to make a Earlier yesterday, fourth seed Timea passing shots in the fourth game. happy in the run-up to his comeback, sacrifi ce,” said Petkovic. “I spent Christ- Bacsinszky of Switzerland pulled out of the Playing in front of a crowd of 13,684, a when praise rained down on likely the best mas in Melbourne watching Seinfeld and tournament due to an abdominal injury. record for a tennis match in Perth, Federer ever to play the sport. eating burgers, but it has paid off .” Rain disrupts Auckland Classic delighted the fans when he broke Evans in “I would like to relive it again,” he joked. Radwanska edges past Duan the sixth game to take control of the fi rst “I’m a little sad it (the excitement) is over. Rain disrupted the fi rst day of the WTA Andy Murray (left) and Novak Djokovic off icially launched the set. He will face emerging German teenag- I’ve enjoyed it so much.” In Beijing, top seed and defending Auckland Classic yesterday with only two 2017 ATP World Tour season on Sunday ahead of the Qatar er Alexander Zverev tomorrow in a much- Federer has not won a Grand Slam title champion Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland matches completed, delaying the start of ExxonMobil Open in Doha. World No. 1 Murray and No. 2 anticipated match-up. since Wimbledon in 2012. “It would be scraped a hard-fought 6-2, 6-7(4), 7-5 top-seed Serena Williams’s campaign. Djokovic played a game of mini-tennis and posed for photos “The standing ovation coming in, it was nice to win another one, of course I’d even victory against lower-ranked Ying-Ying Williams was forced to wait un- on a specially-constructed elevated court in front of the very special. I’m here now enjoying and take two-three-four,” he laughed. Duan at the WTA Shenzhen Open to ad- til 9:20pm, nearly three hours past her Museum of Islamic Art, with the backdrop of the Doha skyline. looking forward to the week of course,” the “It’s tough at the top. A lot of good guys vance to the second round yesterday. scheduled start time, before her fi rst- 35-year-old said. “The welcome was extra are there right now, a lot of young guys are Radwanska, ranked third in the world, round match against Pauline Parmentier special, it felt nice getting the recognition. coming up too. The gap’s defi nitely not took nearly two-and-a-half hours to over- of France and other night matches were I felt it was much better than i thought it very big but I gave it chance. Let’s see what come a stiff challenge from her 103rd- postponed because of persistent rain. would be. I was quite emotional. happens.” ranked Chinese opponent, winning fewer Former world top-10 Lucie Safarova “It felt good putting the match shirt on After Federer gave Switzerland the lead, of her fi rst service points but slamming cruised through her fi rst match against again and going back out there. These are Bencic secured the tie with a three-set win down seven aces to Duan’s four. fellow Czech Denisa Allertova 6-1, 6-2, moments that I’ve missed the most, that’s over Watson, 7-5, 3-6, 6-2. The Pole saved three match points in the thanks to her markedly superior serve. what you play tennis for. This fi rst match In the Fast Four mixed doubles, Federer third set on her way to claiming victory. Safarova fi red down seven aces while was great, but expectations were quite low.” and Bencic made quick work of the match, Second seed Simona Halep of Romania Allertova served up nine double faults. Asked what keeps him going, Federer winning, 4-0, 4-1. triumphed in a three-set thriller 6-1, 3-6, In the second completed match, Japan’s said: “I guess it depends also on how you 6-3 over Jelena Jankovic of Serbia, former- Kurumi Nara comfortably beat Antonia get hurt. I got hurt fi lling up a bath for my Gasquet stars in French victory ly the world’s top-ranked female player. Lottner of Germany 6-2, 6-2. children. It’s not really the way I wanted to Earlier, cagey veteran Richard Gasquet led Halep bounced back after a second-set Fifth seed Kiki Bertens of the Neth- leave this game.” France to a 2-1 win over Germany. Gas- loss to win a place in the second round erlands was 5-3 up on American Lauren Murray and Djokovic with tournament director Karim Alami. Federer is playing the eight-nation quet beat rising star Alexander Zverev 7-5, against Katerina Siniakova, who defeated Davis in the fi rst set when rain halted play.

BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL Ferrer, Muguruza break Australian hearts AFP “All tennis players have pressure, The fourth-seeded Muguruza came Brisbane but at this moment of my career, I need back from a break down in the third set to enjoy these types of matches. I am to outlast Stosur 7-5, 6-7 (2/7), 7-5. 34 years old, 35 next month, so I hope Earlier, two time Grand Slam cham- ormer world number three David I will play a little bit longer,” added the pion Svetlana Kuznetsova celebrated her Ferrer dashed local hopes when Spaniard who faces another Australian, 600th win on the WTA Tour when she he downed Australia’s Bernard wildcard Jordan Thompson, in the sec- downed American Louisa Chirico 6-2, Tomic in straight sets in the fi rst ond round. 6-4 and will now play either US qualifi er roundF of the Brisbane International Tomic said it was unlucky to come up Bethanie Mattek-Sands or young Aus- yesterday. The eighth-seeded Spaniard against someone like Ferrer in the fi rst tralian Destanee Aiava. was a model of consistency as he saw off round, but off ered no excuses. Sixth seed Elina Svitolina of Ukraine Tomic 6-3, 7-5 on the Pat Rafter Arena. “I feel on a given day, whoever plays was an impressive 6-3, 6-3 winner over World number 21 Ferrer is ranked just better is going to win between us, but Puerto Rica’s Rio Olympic gold medallist fi ve places above Tomic and had lost to unfortunately today he was too good for Monica Puig, while China’s Zhang Shuai the Australian on their previous two en- me,” the 16th-ranked Aussie said. downed German Laura Siegemund 4-6, counters. But he proved too strong in the Earlier, Frenchman Nicolas Mahut 7-6 (7/3), 6-3. sweltering conditions in Brisbane, win- came from 1-4 down in the third set to “My game was quite solid. I didn’t do ning in 83 minutes. outlast fellow countryman Stephane Rob- so many unforced errors, which is good, The 34-year-old Ferrer concedes that ert 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 in a two-hour marathon. because with couple of changes it can his days as a top 10 player are gone, but Britain’s Kyle Edmund saw off Ameri- happen,” world number 14 Svitolina said says he now just wants to enjoy himself can qualifi er Ernesto Escobedo in two after her win over Puig. Garbine Muguruza of Spain hits a return on tour. “The last fi ve or six years I was tiebreak sets 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (8/6), while Eighth seeded Italian Roberta Vinci to Samantha Stosur of Australia at the top 10, but, you know, there are younger seventh seeded Bulgarian Grigor Dim- came back from 2-5 down in the third Brisbane International yesterday. (AFP) players — it’s normal, no?” he said. itrov cruised past US player Steve John- set to beat Ukraine’s Kateryna Bondar- “I am still enjoying the tennis, and I son 6-2, 6-3. enko 7-6 (7/4), 6-7 (4/7), 7-6 (7/5), and hope to improve this year, but I am hap- In the women’s draw, reigning French US qualifi er Asia Muhammad defeated py with myself and my career. My goal Open champion Garbine Muguruza also Croatian Donna Vekic 7-6 (7/5), 6-1. this year is to be happy with myself and disappointed the Queensland fans when Sixth seed Elina Svitolina eased into to focus on every tournament that I play, she saw off hometown hero Samantha the second round with a 6-3 6-3 victory without pressure of course.” Stosur in a two-hour 45 minute epic. over Olympic champion Monica Puig. Gulf Times Tuesday, January 3, 2017 3 FOOTBALL

QATAR STARS LEAGUE Sadd’s Khalfan ruled out for three weeks Influential winger and Qatar national team player Khalfan Ibrahim has been ruled out for at least three Bragging rights for weeks due to a hamstring injury ac- cording to Al Sadd. The announcement comes ahead of Al Sadd’s upcoming Round 14 Qatar Stars League match against Al Kharaitiyat, which will kick off at Al Khor Stadium tomorrow. grabs when Arabi The club said that Khalfan has already undergone medical tests and X-rays at Aspetar. The player will now complete an intense rehabilita- tion programme over the next three weeks. Al Sadd will now miss both Khalfan and Hassan al-Haydoos against Al take on Sailiya Kharaitiyat, considering the latter Al Sadd will be looking to bolster has already undergone a minor their chances of taking the QSL title Arabi and Sailiya are five-all in head-to-head since 2010-11 surgery in Germany and is also this year by keeping the pressure up expected to be sidelined for three on League leaders Lekhwiya, who By Sports Reporter weeks. have a two-point lead over them. Doha

espite stark diff erences in FOCUS their history and expecta- tions from their fans, when Al Arabi and Al Sailiya play oneD another, they usually seem to pro- duce some great football and a pulsat- Record signing Oscar ing 90 minutes of football. As the two teams prepare to face off today (6:25pm), statistics from the last six seasons show just how fi nely lands in Shanghai balanced this rivalry is as they face one another for the 12th time. Since 2010-11, each team has clinched victory on fi ve occasions and the teams have shared a point only once. The match is an opportunity to take away the bragging rights and, if the history repeats itself, it is expected to produce plenty of goals. With 31 goals scored by both teams in the past six years, a dead heat in the Al Arabi coach Edison Aguirre (left) and Al Sailiya coach Sami Trabelsi. PICTURES: Ram Chand TVM head-to-head and both teams desper- ately needing the three points, today’s clash should be a thriller. Al Arabi are sixth in the table with 16 points from 13 games. The Dream Team will be looking to improve their position in the table with a win against Sailiya. Edison Aguirre, the head coach of Al Arabi, is expecting a tough encounter, “The next game will be the start of the second round against Sailiya. It will be a diffi cult game like the first round. We respect Sailiya a lot and we hope to grow step by step in the ranking. We made some changes over the break and are looking forward to seeing how our performance will be against Sailiya.” Speaking about his team’s defen- sive vulnerability, Aguirre added, “When you look for a balance and try to attack, it’s a risk. Like in the game against Umm Salal, we conceded an own goal at the end. So it’s a huge risk Brazilian midfielder Oscar arrives at the Shanghai Pudong International Airport when you try to control the game, yesterday, after agreeing to join China Super League club Shanghai SIPG. (Reuters) which is our style of play.” Al Sailiya are in the drop zone after Al Rayyan coach Michael Laudrup (left) and Al Shahaniya’s new coach Igor Stimac. AFP est salaried footballer. two back-to-back defeats. Shanghai SIPG’s general manager yesterday Sami Trabelsi, the head coach of table with 12 points. The Knights will team and I used the break well. I hope Michael Laudrup’s outfi t in the fi fth dismissed concerns raised by state me- Sailiya wants his team to improve in be looking to inch forward in the table we can end this match with a positive spot in the standings. dia of a market bubble in the super-rich the second half of the league, “We with a win against Umm Salal at home. result. We are facing a strong team, “They have a new coach and they razilian midfi elder Oscar Chinese league, arguing prices have to hoped to have a longer break but it’s “We have a lot of respect for Umm who are coming off a win against will try to play tactically because it’s landed in Shanghai yesterday be higher to attract players away from so short. This period is very important Salal. We have an obligation to play well Rayyan. We will do our best after his fi rst game. They are a good team where the 25-year-old was big European leagues. for our team. We have many injured and to win. The match has become more some games to be farther from the and we will be looking for the three set to smash the Asian trans- “The league is developing so of players and we expect some players to and more diffi cult that’s why we have drop zone. So it’s important for us to points against them as it’s important ferB record with a reported 60mn euros course it will go through many diff erent come back. We are facing Al Arabi who to try our best to collect points,” Khor play all the games well and not just for us,” Laudrup said. ($63mn) deal with Shanghai SIPG. stages,” Sui Guoyang told AFP, after es- have a lot of good players. In the next coach Jean Fernandes said. the next one.” “We have to play AFC Champions Dozens of supporters chanting club corting Oscar through a media scrum. round, we can’t make mistakes and “Umm Salal don’t lose easily and Rayyan will face Al Shahaniya at League and we don’t know what’s pos- songs swarmed the former Chelsea “I believe that from now on the Chi- we have to play better and get better haven’t lost a lot of matches. They Al Arabi Stadium in the early kickoff sible. I focus on the present. I focus on player at the city’s Pudong airport. nese Super League will become health- results.” have players with strong presence on (4:15pm). the game tomorrow and I don’t like to Oscar’s arrival in the Chinese Super ier and more normal,” he added. Speaking about the possibility of the fi eld. After the Al Rayyan match, Shahaniya, who are in the drop look too much into the future. We take League comes ahead of that of Argenti- Some fans put it more bluntly. relegation, Trabelsi added, “We have our team have regained full confi - zone in 12th place with 12 points from it one by one and one game at a time,” na’s former Manchester United striker “In the end if you do not pay the eighty percent of the same players dence but during the break we didn’t 13 games, have parted ways with Jose added the Danish tactician. Carlos Tevez, who signed for Shanghai money then nobody would be willing to who gave Al Sailiya glory in 2014 by just work for the next game but for all Fernando and have hired a new coach Shenhua in another big-money deal come over here,” said SIPG supporter reaching the fi nal of the Emir Cup. So games which are coming up,” added from Croatia, Igor Stimac. TODAY’S MATCHES last week. Zou Jiahuo. I don’t think we will be relegated this the Frenchman. “I know Shahaniya didn’t fulfi l ex- VENUE: AL ARABI CLUB Tevez’s transfer fee was 10.5mn eu- Oscar will join fellow Brazilian player season. I’m not worried about that.” Umm Salal coach Mahmoud Jab- pectations in the fi rst round and it’s 4:15pm: Al Shahania vs Al Rayyan ros, according to the website transfer- Hulk who joined SIPG for a reported In the other 6:25pm kickoff today, ber said he is happy with the team’s my job to change that. Some of our 6:25pm: Al Arabi vs Al Sailiya markt.com, which tracks dealings in 55mn euros in July 2016. Al Khor will take on Umm Salal. improvement over the break. “This is players are injured but we can bring the sport, though the reported two- The pair will be coached by former Al Khor beat champions Al Rayyan my third game with the team. Now I players from the bench,” Stimac said. VENUE: AL KHOR CLUB year contract of 38mn euros per season Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea man- in their last game and are ninth in the have had more time to work with the The defeat against Khor has left 6:25pm: Al Khor vs Umm Salal ($40mn) makes him the world’s high- ager Andre Villas-Boas.

BOTTOMLINE Curtain call for fabled Boateng brothers

AFP a group game. “people think of him as a good football- later won the 2009 junior European ti- Berlin The siblings are sons of a German er, but they do not want a Boateng as a tle, after an ill-advised nightclub visit. mother and Ghanaian father. neighbour” — comments which drew On stage, the character is tormented But while George and Kevin-Prince widespread condemnation. by the sanction and, unable to accept he tale of the Boateng broth- were raised by their mother in Berlin’s He is known for a strong work ethic his punishment, decides never to play ers Jerome, George and Kevin- working-class district of Wedding, Jer- and has become one of the world’s best for Germany again and opts instead for Prince — two of whom made ome lived with his father in the affl uent centre-backs. In one scene, Jerome, his father’s country Ghana. history by facing each other at suburb of Wilmersdorf. played by actor Nyamandi Mushaya- “The character of Kevin is the most Ta World Cup fi nals — has hit the stage “It’s a bit of ‘Wedding meets Wilm- vanhu, suff ers in training, accepting interesting,” said Aslan. “We really see in Berlin. ersdorf’, the bad brothers against the the iron discipline needed to succeed in the warrior in him. ‘Germany don’t The play ‘Peng-Peng Boateng’ (Bang- good brother and how they actually German football, living under draconi- want me? Ok, well I will play for Ghana, Bang Boateng) is based on the 2012 book became who they are,” director Nicole an rules to win his coach’s confi dence. but I will continue to play’.” The Boateng Brothers by sports journalist Oder told AFP. The actor says the cast read the origi- Michael Horeni with dance scenes re- “We used dance to replace the foot- ‘PIGEON-HOLED’ nal book and countless interviews with placing football matches. ball and we partly improvised on the Meanwhile, his brothers show a ten- the brothers to get a feel for the charac- The tale charts the brothers’ diff er- basis of the book, which means we have dency to rebel, but there is a danger ters they would be playing. ent paths from the football pitches of developed a part-documentary, part- in stereotyping the characters, says Each performance, which lasts 90 Berlin. fi ctional story.” Mushayavanhu. minutes, is physically demanding for Kevin-Prince is an ex-Portsmouth, AC Despite Oder’s best eff orts, the “A lot had been heard about the broth- the actors, as the story revolves around Milan and Tottenham Hotspur midfi eld- Peng-Peng Boateng team have never ers in advance and many people pigeon- football matches told through dance, er, now playing for Las Palmas in Spain. met the brothers. (From left) Actors Nyamandi Mushayavanhu, Bastian Essinger, Daniel Mandolini hole them,” said Mushayavanhu. leaving them as tired as after a typical George became a rapper after a pris- and Tamer Arslan pose after the premiere of the theatre play Peng Peng Boateng “George is the so-called bad guy, football match. on spell, while Bayern Munich defender POLITICAL STORMS in Berlin on December 18, 2016. The tale of the Boateng brothers Jerome, George Kevin-Prince is the bad guy and Jerome “It was a great challenge for us to Jerome won the 2014 World Cup with Jerome, the youngest of the trio, is por- and Kevin-Prince — two of whom made history by facing each other at a World Cup is the good guy, but it’s not that simple bring the physical energy of football Germany. The Boatengs made World trayed as the shy child who grew up to finals — hit the stage in Berlin. (AFP) when you look into it.” onto the stage and it was quite clear we Cup history at the 2010 fi nals in South become a world champion, model and Tamar Aslan plays Kevin-Prince, the could not play football,” admitted cho- Africa by becoming the fi rst brothers to multi-millionaire. integration and is one of the most rec- litical storms in the past. talented midfi elder who had been a key reographer Raphael Hillebrand. play each other when Kevin-Prince’s He has been held up by German ognisable faces in Germany. Alexander Gauland, deputy leader of member of Germany’s Under-21 team, “Every time someone plays football Ghana lost 1-0 to Jerome’s Germany in Chancellor Angela Merkel as a model of But he has also been dragged into po- the populist AfD party, said in June that but was thrown out of the squad, which in our play, it’s a dance for us.” Gulf Times 4 Tuesday, January 3, 2017 FOOTBALL

ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE FOCUS Giroud gem a work Defoe punishes of art, says Wenger

AFP London

rsene Wenger hailed Olivier Liverpool; Man Giroud’s stunning strike against Crystal Palace as a work of art and one of the top fiA ve Arsenal goals in his 20-year reign. Giroud’s mid-air back-fl icked volley gave Arsenal the lead at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday and set them on Utd sink Hammers course for a 2-0 victory. The France forward’s sumptuous ‘I am not able to explain it because I don’t know exactly what I saw’ scorpion-kick goal will undoubtedly rate as one of the goals of the season, but AFP Wenger went one step farther by placing London it in the most hallowed of company. “Also because it was at the end of a fan- When Arsenal fans talk about the tastic collective movement. best goals to grace their club’s illus- “After that it is just a refl ex, but a ermain Defoe scored two pen- trious history, their thoughts turn to goalscorer is ready to take a goal with alties as third-bottom Sunder- some of the highlights of the Wenger any part of his body, with his toe or any land prevented Liverpool from era — Dennis Bergkamp’s majestic other part.” signifi cantly trimming Chel- strikes against Leicester and New- sea’sJ lead at the Premier League sum- castle, Nwankwo Kanu’s outstanding ‘MUST HANG ON’ mit in a 2-2 draw yesterday. eff ort against Chelsea and numerous Giroud has endured a diffi cult season Liverpool twice went ahead, gems from Thierry Henry. for Arsenal at times. through Daniel Sturridge and Sadio Wenger believes Giroud — who has After being left on the bench for Mane, but Defoe’s two spot-kicks been on the bench at times this sea- much of the fi rst half of the campaign, mean Chelsea will move eight points son — deserves his place among those the 30-year-old has been restored to clear if they win at Tottenham Hot- greats. the starting line-up for Arsenal’s last spur tomorrow. “He transformed that goal into art. two matches and has responded with a “I am not able to explain it because It was art because of the surprise and late winner against West Bromwich Al- I don’t know exactly what I saw,” said the beauty of the moment,” Wenger bion and now a goal for the ages. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. “My purred. “Maybe it is not enough acknowl- team were fi ghting, but I wasn’t sure if “Every striker is remembered for one edged that Olivier scores important they could do it.” or two or three special goals, and that goals,” Wenger said. Manchester City lost ground after will certainly remain with him forever. “He scored against Man United with losing 1-0 at Liverpool on New Year’s “He brings the unexpected and we an important header, he scored a late Eve, but they bounced back by win- all come to football for the unexpected. winner against West Brom.” ning 2-1 at home to Burnley despite People come to see these goals. Giroud’s heroics gave Arsenal a wel- the fi rst-half dismissal of Fernand- “I’ve been spoiled in my career with come lift at the start of 2017 as they inho. many great goals and many great strik- look to bridge the nine-point gap to Liverpool, who were denied a fi fth ers. Bergkamp and Henry scored spe- Premier League leaders Chelsea. successive league win, were left fi ve cial goals, but this one is certainly in “We were on a good run and then had points adrift of Chelsea in second the top fi ve.” two bad results (before Christmas). It place, with City two points back in Giroud admitted his goal carried a looks that we have got that out of our third. large dose of good fortune and Wenger system now,” Wenger said. Manchester United rose to within a Sunderland’s Jermain Defoe shoots at goal during the English Premier League match against Liverpool at Stadium of Light agreed that it wasn’t something that “Chelsea win every single game at point of the top four after goals by Juan in Sunderland, England, yesterday. (Reuters) could ever be practised on the training the moment and we have just to hang Mata and Zlatan Ibrahimovic secured ground. on, you have to hope the results turn in a contentious 2-0 win at 10-man West home with his weaker right foot, and “It was exceptional,” said Wenger. our favour.” Ham United. four minutes later Aguero slammed Klopp made just one change to his home from a tight angle. starting XI, Sturridge replacing the A blunder by Claudio Bravo allowed PRIORITIES injured Jordan Henderson, and the Ben Mee to reduce the arrears follow- England striker gave his side a 19th- ing a goalmouth scramble, but City minute lead at the Stadium of Light. held on to climb back into the Cham- Dejan Lovren miscued his volley pions League places. Afobe puts Bournemouth from a corner, but Sturridge reacted “We won against a lot of circum- sharply to swivel and redirect the stances in a tough game so we’re hap- ball past Sunderland goalkeeper Vito py for that,” Guardiola said in a tetchy ahead of Nations Cup Mannone with his head. BBC interview. Defoe equalised six minutes later, Asked for his thoughts on Fernand- netting his 10th league goal of the sea- inho, he replied: “Ask the referee.” son from the penalty spot after Didier Substitute Enner Valencia, Leighton N’Dong was fouled by Ragnar Klavan. Baines and Romelu Lukaku scored in Mane restored Liverpool’s lead in the last 17 minutes as seventh-place the 72nd minute, tapping in from a Everton overcame Southampton 3-0 corner, but then conceded a penalty at Goodison Park. for a needless handball, allowing De- West Bromwich Albion remain a foe to equalise for the second time point below Everton in eighth af- with six minutes to play. ter coming from behind to win 3-1 at “There was no foul before the free- Manchester United’s Juan Mata (right) celebrates his goal against West Ham with home to second-bottom Hull City kick for the second penalty,” Klopp teammate Henrikh Mkhitaryan in London yesterday. (Reuters) through goals from Chris Brunt, Ga- added. “You need a little bit of luck, reth McAuley and James Morrison. but Sunderland worked hard too and dolph produced a stunning save to inho to a straight red card in the 32nd Champions Leicester City have maybe they deserved it.” claw Antonio Valencia’s shot off the minute against Burnley for fl ying in on now gone 12 league games without an Compounding Liverpool’s disap- line in the 36th minute, with Jesse Johann Berg Gudmundsson with both away win following a drab 0-0 draw Reuters at a crucial time. The lads have been pointment, Sturridge limped off late Lingard’s follow-up hitting the post. feet off the ground. at Middlesbrough that left them six Kinshasa, DR of Congo helping me a lot and I want to improve on and had to be helped to the tunnel United manager Jose Mourinho sent It was the Brazil midfi elder’s third points above the relegation zone in personally.” at the full-time whistle. on Mata and Marcus Rashford in the red card in six games and will earn him 14th place. Afobe now has two goals in his last second half and they combined for the a four-game ban. ournemouth striker Benik three starts for the Cherries but could GUARDIOLA TETCHY visitors’ 63rd-minute opener, Rash- City manager Pep Guardiola turned RESULTS Afobe has pulled out of the be banned from playing for his club for Manchester United were given an early ford teeing up Mata to sweep home. to his bench at half-time, sending on Middlesbrough .... 0 Leicester City ..... 0 African Nations Cup fi nals to the duration of the three-week tourna- advantage at West Ham when Sofi ane Ibrahimovic smashed in his 18th Sergio Aguero and David Silva, and Everton ...... 3 Southampton .... 0 stay with his Premier League ment, which starts on January 14, if the Feghouli was harshly sent off by refe- United goal, despite being in an off side within 17 minutes of kick-off in the teamB despite recently switching his Congolese federation take up the issue Manchester City ..2 Burnley ...... 1 ree Mike Dean in the 15th minute after position, to seal a sixth straight league second half City were 2-0 up. Sunderland ...... 2 Liverpool ...... 2 allegiance from England to the Demo- with FIFA. a 50-50 with Phil Jones. victory. Left-back Gael Clichy broke the West Brom ...... 3 Hull City ...... 1 cratic Republic of Congo. Afobe’s decision comes less than two West Ham goalkeeper Darren Ran- Manchester City lost Fernand- deadlock in the 58th minute, curling West Ham ...... 0 Manchester Utd 2 The Congolese football federation months after receiving FIFA’s permis- (Fecofa) yesterday confi rmed Afobe’s sion belatedly to switch his interna- withdrawal from a 31-man preliminary tional allegiance after previously play- BOTTOMLINE squad, who have gathered in Yaounde, ing for England at the under-21 level. Cameroon for pre-tournament prepa- He was supposed to debut for the rations. Congolese in November’s World Cup “Afobe has forfeited from the tour- qualifi er at Guinea but was stymied nament,” said media offi cer Gerard- when the Football Association sent his Chelsea rivals want Spurs win: Pochettino Desire Angengwa without off ering any paperwork for the switch of nationality reason. to the wrong federation, embarrass- AFP charged team. “I think (Kane) was very good, him British media reported that Afobe ingly mixing up DR Congo with neigh- Watford, United Kingdom “You know Chelsea arrive in very and Dele, and (it was good) that they had told the Congolese coach Florent bouring Congo-Brazzaville. good shape, us too after the last few scored,” said the Spurs manager. Ibenge he wished to consolidate his Afobe had been left frustrated af- games,” he said. “I’m very pleased with players like place in the Bournemouth starting ter fl ying all the way to Africa to fi nd ottenham Hotspur manager “For me it will be a very, very tough Trippier and Wimmer, who don’t have line-up after scoring against Swansea he was not eligible to play, permission Mauricio Pochettino be- game to try to stop them and try to re- the opportunity to play too much, but City in a 3-0 away win on Saturday. coming too late after the mix-up in lieves rival Premier League duce the gap.” make us more competitive. Their per- “The manager showed faith in me by London was discovered. managers and fans want his formance was fantastic.” starting me and I wanted to repay him DR Congo have a tough group at Tteam to win when they tackle leaders MAZZARRI’S ‘LOWEST MOMENT’ Watford head coach Walter Maz- with a goal, so I’m happy,” the 23-year- the tournament in Gabon, competing Chelsea at White Hart Lane tomorrow. The win at Watford was a perfect zarri said the result was his “lowest old told his club’s website (www.afcb. with holders Ivory Coast, Morocco and With Chelsea six points clear, Po- warm-up, eff ectively decided by moment” in charge, but he pointed to co.uk) after the victory on New Year’s Togo in Group C. Their opening game chettino thinks Liverpool, Arsenal and half-time when Spurs led 3-0 despite injuries that robbed him of the serv- eve. is against Morocco in Oyem on Janu- the two Manchester clubs will be hop- the absences of suspended duo Jan ices of 10 players. “The goal was a great relief and a goal ary 16. ing for a Spurs victory to stop Antonio Vertonghen and Kyle Walker, both of “If you play against Tottenham Conte’s team widening the gap at the whom will be available to face Chelsea. when you are missing 10 players, may- top. “The fi rst half was great. I think be fi ve or six of a starting XI, you know Furthermore, the Argentine says it it was one of the best performances it won’t be easy,” he said. Costa reveals he wanted to leave Chelsea will be good for the league as a whole, so far,” said Pochettino, whose side “I don’t want to make comparisons, as well as for Tottenham, if Chelsea supplanted Manchester City in the but if you take away fi ve important Chelsea striker Diego Costa has re- Chelsea,” Costa said in comments fail to set a new record of 14 successive Champions League places on goal dif- members of any other team, they will vealed he came close to leaving the published by the BBC yesterday. Premier League victories within the ference. also be in great diffi culty.” club during the close-season transfer “There was one thing I wanted to same season. “It was nearly a perfect game. The He denied that a run of six defeats window. The Brazil-born Spain change for family reasons, but it “I think it’s important for the Pre- shame was that we conceded a goal in in nine games, which has left Watford international had a poor 2015-16 wasn’t to be, and I continue to be mier League and for us to try to win the last minute, but a lot of positive in 13th place, has put him under pres- campaign as Chelsea’s title defence happy here.” and try to stop them and reduce the things, very happy. sure. unravelled and said he decided to As well as his goals, Costa’s on-pitch gap because in the end for us the chal- stormy 2-2 draw delivered the cham- “We scored from the beginning “When I’ve spoken with the club, leave the club for personal reasons conduct has improved this season lenge is to try to be at the top,” Pochet- pionship to the King Power Stadium. and at that moment I think the game with the president, the objective has at the end of the season. and he said he had made a deliber- tino said after his side’s 4-1 win at “Yes, maybe we will feel how was over. We controlled it and created always been to avoid relegation and But he changed his mind and has ate eff ort to curb his aggression. Watford on Sunday. Leicester felt last season when all the some chances.” we are doing better than that,” said helped to send Chelsea six points “I knew I had to improve that aspect Last season the situations were re- teams were with them and against us,” He also praised the two-goal con- the Italian, whose side replied through clear at the top of the Premier because here in the Premier League versed, with many neutrals wanting Pochettino said. tributions of Harry Kane and Dele Alli, Younes Kaboul. League table with 14 goals in 18 there is no mercy,” he said. Tottenham to falter against Chelsea at “Maybe they felt the same as us last as well as Vertonghen and Walker’s re- “Before we had the players missing league appearances. “A lot of the time it seemed (referees) Stamford Bridge so unlikely contend- season.” placements Kevin Wimmer and Kier- we were doing something extraordi- “Did I want to go? Yes, yes, I was were against me. If they’re not going ers Leicester City could take the title. However, he warned it will be tough an Trippier, who set up both of Kane’s nary, better than expectations, so we about to leave. But not because of to change, I had to change.” Their wishes were granted as a for Tottenham against Conte’s turbo- goals. have to take this into account.” Gulf Times Tuesday, January 3, 2017 5 SPORT

NBA FOCUS IOC refuses to lift Kuwait sports ban Hawks’ Hardaway, AFP panel to draft amendments to Lausanne the relevant laws. But their eff orts failed to convince the IOC. he International Ol- “The situation has signifi - ympic Committee cantly deteriorated over the (IOC) has rejected a past months due to a number call by the Kuwaiti of decisions taken in violation Blazers’ McCollum governmentT to temporar- of the principles and rules of ily lift a 14-month sports ban the Olympic Charter which while the Gulf State amends a has constrained the IOC to controversial law. react accordingly and to reit- World sports bodies led by erate its position,” the letter to the IOC and football govern- Kuwait’s Minister of State for ing body FIFA suspended Ku- Youth Aff airs Sheikh Salman wait in October 2015 for the Sabah Al-Salem al-Humoud win with career highs second time since 2010 over Al-Sabah read. alleged government meddling The IOC also demanded the in sports. authorities immediately re- ‘We came out today and played with a lot of pride’ Kuwait’s public sports au- instate the Kuwaiti Olympic thority had on December 23 Committee and dissolve or written to the IOC and FIFA dismiss any “parallel bodies/ AFP urging them to “lift the ban offi cers appointed by the Ku- Los Angeles on Kuwaiti sports activities wait authorities that are not temporarily until relevant lo- recognised by the IOC.” cal laws are revised”. The IOC decision could im Hardaway and CJ McCollum But in a letter addressed impact one expected by FIFA both enjoyed career nights on to the Kuwaiti government on January 9 or 10 with the Sunday as the Atlanta Hawks sur- on Saturday the IOC said it fi nal deadline for Kuwait to be prised the fi rst-place San Antonio “will not be in a position to eligible to compete in the 2019 TSpurs while McCollum carried the Port- reconsider the situation” un- Asian Cup on January 11. land Trail Blazers to a come-from-behind til the country complies with The wealthy emirate has victory. a number of steps to become already missed out on the McCollum scored a career-high 43 fully compatible with the Ol- Rio 2016 Olympic Games points as the Trail Blazers rallied past ympic Charter. and qualifi cation for the 2018 Minnesota 95-89 and Hardaway tallied 29 Kuwait’s sports authority World Cup. Analysts say the points, matching his all-time best total, to had said it was making “seri- crisis was partly caused by a push the Hawks over the Spurs 114-112 in ous and relentless eff orts” to political struggle involving overtime. have the ban lifted and said senior ruling family members McCollum, who reached his previous parliament would set up a and politicians. best of 37 points twice, shot 16-of-25 from the fi eld to set a career high for fi eld goals. SPOTLIGHT “Obviously, CJ had an outstanding game,” Portland coach Terry Stotts said. Averaging 27.1 points in his last eight contests, this was McCollum’s fourth Cramer believes in consecutive game scoring over 20 points in place of Damian Lillard, who injured his ankle on December 23. his innocence in McCollum has scored 30 points in seven games this season. Minnesota guard Kris Dunn came off the bench to play 21 min- doping aff air utes and spent a good portion of it trying to stop McCollum. DPA World Cup races and there- “He can shoot the ball,” Dunn said. Germany fore no accidental Olympic “The three, the midrange, he can drive it champion — stands in front to the basket. of me and tearfully swears he “When somebody can do all of those ross-country skiing never took in anything then I things, you’ve just got to try and fi nd a coach Markus Cramer believe him,” Cramer said. couple of things to take away from him. He is delighted that his Cramer also cites Kegkov’s got it going today so it was kind of hard.” Russian athlete Sergey anti-doping record, saying Canadian Andrew Wiggins led Minne- UstiugovC has won the fi rst two the skier was tested 20 times sota with 24 points while the young Tim- stages of the Tour de Ski. between August 2013 and berwolves trio of Wiggins, Karl-Anthony But most of the questions July 2014, with 16 of those Towns and Zach LaVine combined for 48 the German had to fi eld have tests outside Russia and all points after getting 73 together on Friday to do with 2014 Olympic 20 negative. Legkov was often against Milwaukee. champion Alexander Legkov training in Switzerland at the Towns fi nished with 11 points and 12 re- who is suspended by the rul- time under Swiss coach Reto bounds for his fourth double-double in a ing body FIS in connection Burgermeister, with Cramer row and 24th of the season. with a doping probe. then taking over in 2015 by re- Portland quickly rallied from a 12-point “What can I say? I was quest of Legkov. half-time defi cit with a 14-2 run to tie the employed by the German ski Cramer fi rst coached only game at 51-51 on a McCollum’s jumper. federation at the time men- Legkov and Sergey Turichev McCollum scored 16 points in the third Atlanta Hawks guard Tim Hardaway Jr. gestures during the match against the San Antonio Spurs at Philips Arena. The Hawks won tioned. All I can say is what I but the group has now ex- and the Trail Blazers took a 69-64 lead 114-112 in overtime. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports hear from those aff ected and panded to 13 athletes. They into the fourth what I have experienced so far include Evgeniy Belov, a sec- Portland never trailed in the fi nal quar- minutes and how important that is and “Once you make one and then make Turner has scored in double fi gures in in Russia,” he said. ond-place fi nisher at the 2015 ter and led by as many as eight points in how hard you have to play,” he said. another one, everything seems to come,” 14 consecutive games with six 20-plus- When it comes to Legkov, Tour who is also suspended. the closing 12 minutes. In Atlanta, Hardaway scored the go- Hardaway said. point performances during that span. one of six Russians suspended “No doping. We must con- LaVine’s three pointer with 54 seconds ahead free throw in overtime as the Hawks “We came out today and played with a In Los Angeles, Kyle Lowry and DeMar by FIS because they were im- vince through performance to go allowed Minnesota to get within four snapped an 11-game losing streak to San lot of pride.” DeRozan combined for 72 points as the plicated in a report by World which is the only argument at 91-87 but McCollum hit a jumper 20 Antonio in front of a crowd of 18,000. Atlanta’s Paul Millsap scored a season- Toronto Raptors became the latest team Anti-Doping Agency inves- for a clean sport,” Cremer said seconds later and the Blazers fi nished the San Antonio had a chance to level the high 32 points, including 14 in a row in to take advantage of a hapless Los Angeles tigator Richard McLaren, he told the athletes early on. game at the charity stripe. game at the buzzer but Kawhi Leonard’s the third and fourth quarters, to keep the Lakers, handing them a 123-114 defeat. Cramer says he believes the Cramer said he was “deeply Minnesota coach Tom Thibodeau de- layup rolled around the rim and spun out. Hawks within reach. Millsap added 13 re- athlete who is protesting his moved” that Ustiugov dedi- scribed the third quarter as “just a total Hardaway scored 21 points in the sec- bounds and three assists. RESULTS innocence and appealing the cated his two Tour wins in breakdown.” ond half and scored the fi rst eight points Elsewhere, Myles Turner recorded his Hawks 114, Spurs 112 (OT) suspension. “I have known Val Muestair to Legkov and “The thing that is concerning is the big in overtime. fi fth double-double of the season with 23 Pistons 107, Heat 98 him since 2007. If such an Belov, and hopes that the FIS halftime leads that we don’t protect and He made the fi rst of two free throws points and 12 rebounds to lead the Indiana Pacers 117 Magic 104 athlete — in the top fi ve in the will soon conduct a hearing we don’t come out with the urgency and with 10 seconds left in overtime to put At- Pacers to a 117-104 victory over the Or- Trail Blazers 95 Timberwolves 89 World Cup the past four years, on their appeal and lift the the understanding of playing a whole 48 lanta ahead for good. lando Magic. Raptors 123 Lakers 114 winner of the Tour de Ski and suspension.

NFL Packers, Lions in playoff s as Chiefs, Falcons earn byes

AFP gether. Every game we came to- The Redskins’ fi nal rugby- Oakland, which lost quar- land fi nished an NFL-best 14-2, Washington gether with great focus. I’m re- style desperation play saw New terback Derek Carr to a broken needing only two home playoff ally proud of these guys.” York’s Trevin Wade return a lat- right leg last week, saw replace- wins to reach next month’s NFL The Lions failed to win their eral on the bounce for a last-play ment Matt McGloin leave in the championship game at Houston. aron Rodgers threw fi rst division crown since 1993 Giants touchdown. second quarter with a shoulder The Dolphins, who haven’t four touchdown pass- but took a wildcard post-season “Just like that your season’s injury and rookie Connor Cook won a playoff game since 2000, es and the Green Bay berth thanks to Washington’s over,” said Redskins coach Jay fi nished out the loss at Denver. make their fi rst playoff appear- Packers downed De- earlier 19-10 loss to the New Gruden. “No question it’s frus- The Chiefs took advan- ance since 2008 at Pittsburgh, troitA 31-24 Sunday, claiming the York Giants. trating.” tage, Alex Smith throwing two where the host Steelers downed NFC North division title with Injury-hit Oakland fell 24-6 The Redskins lost four of their touchdown passes as the Chiefs Cleveland 27-24 in overtime on their sixth consecutive victory. at Denver and Kansas City took last six games to miss out of claimed their fi rst division Landry Jones’ third touchdown A tension-packed fi nal day of the AFC West crown and the back-to-back playoff trips for crown since 2010. pass, a 26-yarder to Cobi Ham- the regular season saw the Pack- bye with a 37-27 victory in what the fi rst time since 1992. “It was pretty sweet,” Smith ilton. ers and Detroit Lions capture might have been the fi nal NFL said. The Browns fi nished an NFL- the last playoff berths while the game at San Diego. Cowboys stars rest in loss “Pretty awesome. To win the worst 1-15 to secure the top pick Atlanta Falcons and Kansas City In the National Conference, Tampa Bay’s longshot playoff division is special as well.” in this year’s NFL Draft. Chiefs won to secure fi rst-round Atlanta downed New Orleans bid failed despite the Buccaneers Some San Diego fans carried Among non-playoff teams, playoff byes. 38-32 to join Dallas with a fi rst- edging Carolina 17-16 after Phil- protest signs against Chargers the New York Jets thumped Rodgers threw for 300 yards round bye. adelphia’s 27-13 home win over a ownership, which could move Buff alo 30-10 as the visiting and touchdown passes of seven Green Bay will host the Giants Dallas squad that rested many of the club to Los Angeles this Bills shockingly let New York’s yards to Aaron Ripkowski, three next Sunday and the Lions visit its starters. month after area voters rejected Doug Middleton recover a Jets and nine yards to Davante Ad- Seattle on Saturday in playoff The Cowboys, who had sealed spending public money for a new kickoff in the end zone for a ams and 10 yards to Geronimo openers. a home-fi eld edge and bye, stadium. touchdown. Allen. In the American Conference, benched rookie rusher Ezekiel At Minnesota, two protestors With 40 season touchdown Kansas City joined New England Elliott and star quarterback Dak Brady powers Patriots hung a banner from the roof pro- passes, Rodgers is the fi rst with a fi rst-round bye while Mi- Prescott saw only two posses- New England’s Tom Brady testing the Dakota Access Pipe- Packer to lead the NFL in that ami visits the Pittsburgh Steelers sions. threw for 276 yards and three line, an ongoing dispute regard- area since Brett Favre in 2003 as on Sunday and Oakland visits Atlanta scored touchdowns touchdowns to lead the Patriots ing an oil pipeline taking a path Green Bay reached the playoff s Houston on Saturday. on its fi rst fi ve possessions then over host Miami 35-14 to seal a through Native American tribal for an eighth straight year. At Washington, Robbie held off the Saints. With a loss, home-fi eld edge. lands. “We never broke,” Rodgers Gould’s 40-yard fi eld goal with the Falcons would have lost the Brady, seeking a fi fth Super The game continued and po- Geronimo Allison of the Green Bay Packers celebrates his touchdown said. “We could have fractured 2:12 remaining gave the Giants a bye to Seattle, which edged San Bowl crown at age 39, complet- lice later arrested the duo on catch against the Detroit Lions during fourth quarter at Ford Field in at some point but we stuck to- 13-10 lead. Francisco 25-23. ed 25 of 33 passes as New Eng- trespassing charges. Detroit. (Getty Images/AFP) Gulf Times 6 Tuesday, January 3, 2017 SPORT

NHL RUGBY Cockerill sacked as director of rugby Rookie Matthews by Leicester

AFP ing me the opportunity to lead London this great club and the support they have given me in the last seven years. ichard Cockerill’s “I arrived back at the club in lift s Leafs to outdoor seven-year spell as 2004 as an academy coach and Leicester’s director of leave as DOR with a record that rugby came to an end speaks for itself and stands up yesterdayR when the English against any in club rugby in the rugby giants sacked him. world. The 46-year-old former “This club has made me the England hooker — who has person and the coach I am to- been on the coaching staff at day and I will never forget what victory over Wings the Tigers for 12 years and ac- they have done for me.” ceded to the top post in 2010 Tom paid tribute to Cock- — said he was sad to be leav- erill — who guided the Tigers ‘It was just sitting there and I tried to get it up in the air on the goalie as much as I could’ ing a club which he served with to two Premiership titles as distinction as both player and head coach in 2009 and 2010 coach, insisting he was the and then a record 10th domes- right person for the job. tic crown as director of rugby Cockerill’s sacking came the in 2013. day after a narrow 16-12 home “We thank Richard for his defeat to defending champions loyal and dedicated service as Saracens which left Leicester a player, coach and director of in fi fth spot 15 points adrift of rugby,” said Tomas in a state- leaders Wasps. ment. “It is with great sadness and “He has a great passion for regret that I leave my position the club and for the game of as director of rugby with im- rugby, and has shared in many mediate eff ect,” said Cockerill massive occasions with the Ti- in a statement on the club gers. “The club always has as- website. pirations to contest the major “I still believe that I am the honours in the game and that right person to lead the team at remains unchanged but the this present time but respect board believes this is the right the Board’s decision to make time to make a change.” change as they see fi t in the Head coach and former New best interests of the club. Zealand star Aaron Mauger “I wish to thank the club and will take charge whilst the in particular Simon Cohen and board reviews its coaching Peter Tom (chairman) for giv- structure.

Tuilagi withdraws from England training camp Leicester centre Manu Tuilagi because of an injury sustained has withdrawn from England’s during Leicester Tigers’ defeat two-day training camp next to Saracens,” the RFU said in week after injuring his knee, a statement released late on the Rugby Football Union has Sunday. announced. “Semesa Rokoduguni (Bath The 25-year-old, who recently Rugby) has been called in spent two months on the to join up with the 33-man sidelines with a groin problem, squad.” was forced off in the eighth Leicester director of Rugby The Toronto Maple Leafs celebrate the winning goal by Auston Matthews (No 34) against the Detroit Red Wings in the NHL Centennial Classic in Toronto. (Getty Images/AFP) minute of Leicester’s 16-12 Richard Cockerill said Tuilagi loss to Saracens in the English would be assessed on Monday. FP celebrations. his second goal of the contest lead on the seventh goal of the as the Washington Capitals beat Premiership on Sunday. “Normally it’s 24 hours, so Montreal The Leafs won despite squan- and 20th of the season. The Ari- season by Brown at 9:34 from the Ottawa Senators. His place in Eddie Jones’s we will see how it has settled dering a three-goal lead over the zona native has had little trou- close in on a pass from Hyman. With the score tied 1-1 in the England squad has been down in the morning to see if Red Wings halfway through the ble making the transition from Matthews scored his fi rst goal third, Chorney took a pass from taken by Bath wing Semesa there’s any swelling,” Cockerill oronto rookie Auston third period in front of a crowd developmental leagues to the at 12:05 on a shot from the right fellow defenseman Brooks Orpik Rokoduguni. said. “It might just be a bang Matthews applied the of 40,100 at Exhibition Place NHL. circle to increase the lead to and fi red a shot through a host of “Manu Tuilagi (Leicester Ti- and a bit of swelling, it might dramatic ending with a Stadium, site of last year’s Ma- “I believe in myself,” he said. three goals. bodies and past Senators goalie gers) will not attend England’s be a couple of weeks. I’m just goal 3:40 into overtime jor League Soccer and Canadian “Going into the season I didn’t Detroit came back with the Mike Condon to give Washing- training camp in Brighton guessing.” Tas the Maple Leafs edged the De- Football League fi nals. put too many expectations on fi rst goal of the season by Eric- ton the lead with 17:17 remain- troit 5-4 in a NHL outdoor game The Red Wings scored twice myself.” sson at 13:54 to cut the Toronto ing. Sunday. in the fi nal 74 seconds with their Leo Komarov, Mitch Marner, lead to two goals. It was just Chorney’s third The 19-year-old American goaltender removed for an extra Connor Brown and Matthews With Coreau out of the net, goal in 130 career games and fi rst lifted a loose puck from the side attacker, the last goal coming scored in regulation for the Ma- the Red Wings scored again at since Mar. 2 against Toronto. He of the net over Detroit goal- with only 1.1 seconds remaining ple Leafs. Zach Hyman added 18:14 on the ninth goal of the has played just seven games for tender Jared Coreau to cap a as Canadian Anthony Mantha two assists for Toronto. season by Larkin. Washington. thrilling extra session and lift netted his second of the game to Mantha added an assist for the Mantha scored his ninth goal Karl Alzner also scored for the the Leafs to their fi fth consecu- force overtime. Red Wings, who have lost two of of the season at 19:58 to tie the Capitals, while Kyle Turris had tive victory. “We tried to stay level head- their past three games. Jonathan score 4-4. The Leafs improved opened the scoring for the Sena- “It was just sitting there and I ed,” Matthews said. “We had Ericsson and Dylan Larkin also to 17-12 with 7 overtime losses tors midway through the second tried to get it up in the air on the a couple of bad breaks, but we scored for Detroit. for 41 points, 10th in the Eastern period. goalie as much as I could,” Mat- didn’t give up. Denmark’s Frederik Andersen Conference, while Detroit fell to thews said. “Not many people get this ex- stopped 33 shots in the Toronto 16-16-5. RESULTS The inaugural Centennial perience. To see this in Toronto goal, while Coreau, of Canada, Meanwhile Seldom-used Maple Leafs 5 Red Wings 4 (OT) Classic in Toronto launched a is pretty special.” made 22 saves in Detroit’s net. defenseman Taylor Chorney Capitals 2 Senators 1 year of 100th anniversary NHL Matthews’ game-winner was The Maple Leafs took a 3-1 scored early in the third period Ducks 4 Flyers 3 (SO)

FOCUS ‘Save the Dream’ fl ying high in the Saudi skies

Agencies ples and marked a new milestone President of the Asian Air Sport Sports Federation to raise aware- Riyadh for Save the Dream in its global Federation and supervisor of the ness among young athletes and campaign to protect sport integ- programme ‘My King and My the sport industry and spread rity values and protect the right Kingdom at the Top’, Captain Fa- values and ethics of integrity in ave the Dream promoted of sport for all. had Alzakari, assistant supervi- various sports, as well as hon- its message of integrity The initiative has great sym- sor of the programme. ouring Prince Turki bin Muqrin in sport at a special event bolic signifi cance in promoting On the occasion, Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz, Asian Air Sports this weekend hosted by the message of Save the Dream bin Muqrin bin Abdulaziz, Pres- Federation, the Saudi Air Sports theS Asian Air Sports Federation in the region and the world. ident of Saudi Air Sports Fed- Federation and the SAOC. and the Saudi Air Sports Fed- Air shows performed by vari- eration, delivered a speech, in Hanzab said: “The co-oper- eration, which inaugurated the ous aircraft, accompanied by a which he welcomed the attend- ation agreement represents a program of ‘My King and My security air team from the Saudi ees and guests, stressing that the model of active partnership be- Kingdom at the Top’ to com- Royal Guards, displaying the Anniversary of Allegiance is one tween the Saudi Olympic Com- memorate the Pledge of Alle- theme ‘My King and My King- of the most important events mittee and the ICSS to protect giance to the Custodian of the dom at the Top” and the Save that brings joy to Saudi people children and enable them to ex- Two Holy Mosques King Salman the Dream’s logo took part in the who live in security, safety and ercise in an encouraging and se- bin Abdul Aziz al-Saud of Saudi ceremony. In addition, an aircraft prosperity. cure environment.” Arabia. carried the Anniversary of the Prince Turki also praised the Dr Mubarak al-Swailem, Pres- The ‘My King and My King- Pledge of Allegiance’s Flag, which Save the Dream programme and ident of the Asian Air Sport Fed- dom at the Top’ programme is illustrated pictures of the Custo- its inauguration in Saudi Arabia eration, also spoke, highlighting being launched under the aus- dian of the Two Holy Mosques in conjunction with the Pledge his pleasure on the occasion of pices of the Saudi Air Sports and the theme “My King and my of Allegiance’s celebrations, the Anniversary of Allegiance Federation and the Asian Air Kingdom at the Top”. extending thanks to the Saudi and the signing of a co-operation Sports Federation as part of Sau- A Save the Dream logo, meas- Olympic Committee, which of- agreement aimed at implement- di Arabia’s interest in promoting uring 20m×3m, designed and fered the opportunity to the ing Save the Dream. He also youth and sports programmes. produced in the United States, Saudi Air Sports Federation to thanked all those who contrib- The inauguration ceremo- was also carried by the aircraft patron the launch of Save the uted to the preparation of the ny, which took place at the Air and fl ew high above the Saudi Dream in the country. event, praising the ICSS’s role Sports Site in Banban at Riyadh, capital Riyadh’s skies as part of The ‘My King and My Kingdom at the Top’ programme was launched under the auspices of the Saudi He also praised ICSS Chair- and mission under the leadership also marked the launch of an the celebrations, as well as glider Air Sports Federation and the Asian Air Sports Federation as part of Saudi Arabia’s interest in promoting man’s ongoing eff orts to protect of its chairman Hanzab. introduction programme for planes provided by the Earth youth and sports programmes. and promote sport worldwide. The event concluded with Save the Dream in Saudi Arabia and Space Club also displaying ICSS chairman, Mohamed Prince Turki bin Muqrin bin Ab- through the Saudi Arabian Ol- the Save the Dream’s logo in the Anthem of Saudi Arabia and rec- tions, including Prince Turki bin tions at Saudi Olympic Commit- Hanzab, also spoke at the event, dulaziz honouring Mohammed ympic Committee. Saudi skies along with the par- itation of verses from the Holy Muqrin bin Abdulaziz, Chair- tee (SAOC), Mohamed Hanzab, stressing in his speech the IC- Hanzab, Founder of Save the The new introductory pro- ticipation of 200 Saudi scouts Qur’an, the event was attended man of Saudi Air Sports Federa- Founder of Save the Dream SS’s commitment through the Dream and ICSS Chairman, Save gramme aims to emphasise wearing Save the Dream’s T- by numerous high-level offi cials tion, Prince Khalid bin Bandar and Chairman of the Interna- Save the Dream programme in the Dream programme along Saudi Arabia’s determination to shirts and caps. from the Saudi Olympic Com- bin Musa’ed, the Executive Di- tional Centre for Sport Security co-operation with the Asian Air with a number of Saudi govern- protect sport values and princi- Beginning with the National mittee and Saudi sports federa- rector for International Rela- (ICSS), Dr Mubarak al-Swailem, Sports Federation and Saudi Air ment offi cials. Gulf Times Tuesday, January 3, 2017 7 SPORT

CAPE TOWN TEST DECISION TIME Formula One waits for Mercedes Elgar’s career-best announcement

Reuters veteran Felipe Massa to agree to London abandon his announced retire- ment and return to Williams as Bottas’s replacement. century puts South he time for talking is Claire Williams, deputy prin- fast approaching as cipal of the team founded by her Mercedes start a new father, indicated last month that Tyear with Formula One Williams would be open to Bottas waiting for a big announcement leaving if “an experienced, cred- about who is going to replace re- ible alternative was available” — tired world champion Nico Ros- such as the 35-year-old Massa. berg alongside Lewis Hamilton. Pascal Wehrlein, the 22-year- Africans in control The team made clear before old Mercedes reserve driver who the Christmas break that they might have expected to take Ros- ‘It’s definitely a new ball wicket and it’s going to be that nature throughout the game’ would have nothing to say before berg’s place but lacks experience, the full return to work today. is another piece of the jigsaw. There is evidence, however, The young German raced for to suggest the decision is all but tail-enders Manor last year, made. scoring the only point for a According to the motorsport. fi nancially-challenged team com website, Finnish driver whose future remains uncertain, Valtteri Bottas was at the Mer- but is expected to join Ferrari- cedes factory at Brackley before engined Sauber alongside Swe- Christmas to meet team engi- den’s Marcus Ericsson. neers and try out the cockpit of Wolff , in his fi nal words to the the 2017 car. team before the break, gave no Bottas has raced for Mer- clues but emphasised that Mer- cedes-powered Williams since cedes’ best interests would al- his Formula One debut in 2013 ways come fi rst. and Mercedes team boss Toto “Our position in the spot- Wolff , a former Williams share- light puts every decision taken holder, has also been involved and every word spoken under with the 27-year-old’s manage- an intense microscope,” said the ment team. Austrian. “They are debated pas- The Finn is the bookmakers’ sionately among our fans and in- favourite to replace Rosberg, who terpreted by the media. quit unexpectedly last month “But there has been enough only fi ve days after winning his talking, now. This is the period fi rst title, but other elements for calm and considered refl ec- may need to slide into place be- tion, to savour our achievements fore a deal can be announced. and prepare for the next cam- One would be for Brazilian paign.”

FOCUS Aussies to prepare in Dubai for India

South African batsman Dean Elgar (C) celebrates after AFP from around the cricket world. scoring a century against Sri Lanka at Newlands Cricket Sydney “The ICC have done a really Stadium in Cape Town yesterday. good job where they’ll have dif- ferent pitches of the cities... so ustralia plan to prepare it’s not just spin pitches, there for their Indian Test are diff erent types,” said Howard. bowler Lahiru Kumara with the total on series in Dubai as team “We cannot copy what we AFP SCOREBOARD Cape Town 66 and South Africa were still struggling offi cials seek more con- are going to get. It’s all about at 169 for fi ve when Elgar was joined by Atrol over the state of practice the mindset that we’re going South Africa, first innings 3-46-0, Mathews 14-3-30-0 (1w), Kumara Quinton de Kock. pitches, reports said yesterday. to adapt. We can’t get practice pening batsman Dean Elgar S. Cook c Mendis b Lakmal ...... 0 17-1-86-3 (1nb, 3w), Herath 14.2-3-34-1, De Elgar and De Kock shared a 103-run The tour to face the world’s against (Ravichandran) Ashwin battled his way to a career-best D. Elgar c Mendis b Lakmal ...... 129 Silva 8-0-30-0 partnership for the sixth wicket. number one side next month has and (Ravindra) Jadeja either.” century on the fi rst day of the H. Amla b Kumara ...... 29 To bat: V. Philander, K. Maharaj, K Rabada With the sun coming out during the been tagged the “closest thing Australia’s team for today’s second Test against Sri Lanka J. Duminy c Mendis b Kumara ...... 0 Sri Lanka: A. Mathews, D. Karunaratne, afternoon, South Africa were getting to mission impossible” for Aus- fi nal Sydney Test against Paki- atO Newlands yesterday, then predicted on top when Elgar pushed at a ball from tralia, who have not won a Test in stan has been chosen with an eye F. du Plessis c Mathews b Herath ...... 38 K. Silva, U. Tharanga, K. Mendis, D. Chan- that South Africa’s fast bowlers could T. Bavuma c Tharanga b Kumara ...... 10 dimal, D. de Silva, R. Herath, S. Lakmal, N. Suranga Lakmal and was caught behind. India since 2004. on the four-Test India campaign thrive on a grassy pitch. Q. de Kock not out ...... 68 Pradeep, L. Kumara It was a rare false stroke in a 230-ball The staging camp at Dubai’s and includes two spinners in Elgar made 129, his sixth Test century, K. Abbott not out ...... 16 Match situation: South Africa are 297 for innings which included 15 fours. It was state-of-the-art International Nathan Lyon and Steve O’Keefe. before falling to the second new ball. Extras (lb2, n1, w4) 7 six wickets in the first innings Elgar’s sixth Test century and two runs Cricket Council (ICC) Academy Third spinner Ashton Agar was South Africa were 297 for six at the close Total (6 wkts, 90 overs) 297 Toss: Sri Lanka better than his previous highest Test has been devised to help avoid a also in the 13-man squad but did after being sent in to bat. Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Cook), 2-66 (Amla), Umpires: Aleem Dar (PAK), Rod Tucker score, made against Australia in Perth in repeat of Australia’s disastrous not make the staring eleven. “It’s my fourth Test here and defi nitely 3-66 (Duminy), 4-142 (Du Plessis), 5-169 (AUS) November. 2013 series in India where they England enjoyed similar prep- the most grass I’ve seen. Against a sub- (Bavuma), 6-272 (Elgar) TV umpire: Bruce Oxenford (AUS) De Kock was unbeaten on 68 at the lost all four Tests. arations in the Gulf state ahead continent team we defi nitely don’t want Bowling: Lakmal 21-3-69-2, Pradeep 15.4- Match referee: David Boon (AUS) close. On 41, he reached 1000 Test runs “India is not going to be the of their landmark 2-1 series win to make it comfortable for them,” he said. in 23 innings. Only four South Africans, same everywhere,” Cricket Aus- in India in 2012, while the West Elgar said he saw no problem in South led by former captain Graeme Smith on tralia’s high performance general Indies also spent time at the Africa preparing pitches to negate the it’s going to be that nature throughout wicket that’s going to bring the best out 17, have reached four fi gures in fewer in- manager Pat Howard told Fairfax academy before winning the opposition’s spin bowling strength, as the game. When they took the second of them.” nings. Media. World Twenty20 championship happened in Port Elizabeth when South new ball there was a lot of seam move- Left-handed Elgar batted imperturb- “Quinny’s one of those freaks of world “What they can do in Dubai is in India last year. Africa won the fi rst Test by 206 runs. ment.” ably while wickets fell at the other end, cricket at the moment,” said Elgar of his do a lot of diff erent preparation Australia will play two intra- “In saying that, it’s a good cricket Elgar said he looked forward to seeing with Sri Lanka’s seam bowlers taking fellow left-hander. with diff erent types of pitches.” squad matches in Dubai, with wicket,” he added. “If you apply your- South Africa’s new ball bowlers, Vernon advantage of a well-grassed pitch and “He puts the bowlers under a lot of The Dubai academy — in which the numbers made up by young self with the bat or the ball you are going Philander and Kyle Abbott, against the overcast sky. Stephen Cook, man of the pressure. You wipe your eyes and he’s got recently departed Australia na- players from the Pakistan Super to get success. Port Elizabeth was also a Sri Lankan batsmen. match in South Africa’s 206-run win in fi fty.” Kumara, 19, who replaced Dush- tional selector Rod Marsh took a League T20 competition being good cricket wicket.” “I’m glad they are in my side and not the fi rst Test in Port Elizabeth, was out to mantha Chameera in one of two changes lead design and development role held there at the same time, the He said the pitch off ered plenty of help against me. They’re bowling very well the fourth ball of the match before a run from the side that lost in Port Elizabeth, — has two full-sized fl oodlit ovals reports said. to the bowlers early on. together and if they keep doing the ba- had been scored. took three for 86 and bowled with pace and more than 30 grass pitches The fi rst Test begins in Pune “It’s defi nitely a new ball wicket and sics that they have been doing, it’s a Two more wickets fell to teenage fast and aggression. constructed on diff erent soils on February 23.

PREVIEW Misbah to captain Pakistan in Sydney Test

AFP After the Australia Test series Pakistan do go with the two quicks and the two spinners,” Sydney not have any Tests scheduled until April, when Smith told reporters. “It just adds a little bit to they will tour the West Indies for a four-match the bowling stocks, and he deserves an oppor- series. tunity to play at number six.” akistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq said Misbah’s most immediate assignment after The 24-year-old Cartwright is a batting all- yesterday he will lead the side in the the Australia series will be in the United Arab rounder who bowls medium pace and will sup- third Test against Australia in Sydney, Emirates in the Pakistan Super League with Is- port front-line fast bowlers Mitchell Starc and dismissing suggestions he is about to lamabad United, which starts on February 9. Josh Hazlewood. Pretire. Misbah opted against naming a fi nal Test “He’s improved (his bowling) a lot over the Misbah, 42, raised the possibility following team yesterday, admitting there could be last year or so. He’s gained 10 kph,” Smith said his team’s abject innings defeat in the second changes after his side’s woeful last day in the of Cartwright. Melbourne Test last week to lose the series, Melbourne Test. The need for a second spinner in Sydney had when he said he would contemplate his future “Traditionally, Sydney is a bit diff erent. It all been fl agged by selectors, with O’Keefe getting and may even retire before Tuesday’s fi nal Test. depends on the fi nal look of the pitch,” he said. the fi nal nod over Ashton Agar. But Pakistan’s most successful skipper on Australia hold an unassailable 2-0 lead in the “We’re playing the two spinners, traditionally Monday appeared at the captain’s media con- Test series. out here it does take some spin,” Smith said. ference before the Test to hose down specula- Heading into Sydney, Pakistan have not won a O’Keefe will partner veteran spinner Nathan tion of his imminent retirement. Test Down Under since their ‘dead rubber’ vic- Lyon, who cemented his place in the team with a Misbah, who has scored a total of 20 runs in tory at the Sydney Cricket Ground in 1995. crucial three-wicket spell on the fi nal day of the four innings in the series, said his comments af- Meanwhile, all-rounder Hilton Cartwright Melbourne Test. ter the innings and 18-run defeat in Melbourne will make his Test debut among two changes O’Keefe has played three Tests, including in were triggered by frustration. Pakistan cricket captain Misbah-ul-Haq attends a training session at the SCG in Sydney yesterday. in the Australia team, captain Steve Smith said Sydney against the West Indies last season, and “That was 2016 — now it’s 2017,” he told re- yesterday. partnered Lyon in the fi rst Test in Sri Lanka in porters. “That is gone, that is gone. You have to “Everyone, from the support staff to the would make the fi nal decision about his playing Zimbabwe-born Cartwright and left-arm July before injury ruled him out for the remain- fi ght as a sportsman and that’s important for me players — and they’re up for that (fi ght), so I’m status once he returns home to Pakistan. spinner Steve O’Keefe replace Nic Maddinson der of the series. also. also up. I need to play at my best.” Misbah now concentrates only on Test crick- and Jackson Bird in the team that demolished Explaining Agar’s inclusion in the expanded “I’m happy that I’ve got a very good family, Misbah said he was not thinking about the et and retired from one-day internationals after Pakistan by an innings in Melbourne last week squad, Smith said: “It was to bring him into the all the team. The way they supported me (was end of his international career that started in Pakistan’s defeat to Australia in the World Cup to clinch the three-match series. mix and have those three spinners working to- appreciated). 2001, although well-placed sources said he quarter-fi nal in 2015. “Cartwright is an extra bowling option to gether.

Tuesday, January 3, 2017 GULF TIMES SPORT

DAKAR RALLY Al-Attiyah blazes to stage one win as Dakar revs off Ace driver overcomes a fire in his Toyota to win the dramatic opening stage of the world’s most gruelling rally

AFP Asuncion

atari two-time winner Nass- er al-Attiyah overcame a fi re in his Toyota to win a dra- Qmatic opening stage of the 2017 Dakar Rally yesterday Al-Attiyah completed the 38.5km special stage in 25min 41sec, the fi rst on a high-octane, high-altitude 8,800km (5,500 mile) continent-crossing trek from Asuncion in Paraguay to Buenos Aires. “About a dozen kilometres out from the fi nish we smelt smoke by (co-driv- er) Matthieu’s (Baumel) seat and there was a bit of a fi re. We slowed down to fi nish the stage and were able to put it out at the fi nish,” the Toyota driver said after arriving in the Argentinian city of Resistencia. The Qatari’s teammate Giniel de Vil- liers had to come to the rescue and tow him away. Former World Rally Championship driver Xevi Pons was 24sec adrift in his Ford Ranger while fellow Spaniard Nani Roma came in a further 5sec back in his Toyota. Nine-time world rally champion Sebastien Loeb was 55sec off the pace as he came in sixth while defending champion Stephane Peterhansel was 1min 34sec behind al-Attiyah in 12th. Peugeot’s Peterhansel is seeking to add to an extraordinary record in the race which comprises six wins apiece in both moto and auto categories. Earlier, Australian KTM rider and defending champion Toby Price set out at the start of the two-week rally, which will take participants via Bolivia through unforgiving mountainous ter- rain. Competitors were watching the skies before the start following days of vio- lent tropical storms in the Paraguayan capital. Participants swiftly resumed last- minute technical checks after seeing in the New Year ahead of the tra- ditional pre-race briefing Sunday evening. Riders and drivers must negotiate some 4,000km of special stages be- Nasser al-Attiyah and co-pilot Matthieu Baumel drive their Toyota during the symbolic start of the Dakar Rally yesterday. fore reaching Buenos Aires on January 14. gards the altitude... I don’t really know time at altitude and are well prepared.” ing open coming out of a decade of lost his limbs after he suff ered a mas- lenge — crossing four straits separating Five stages will be held at above 3,500 how we shall react — drivers, co-driv- For Peterhansel, “it’s very open. I’d domination by Frenchman Cyril De- sive electric shock while working on a fi ve continents. metres altitude — and participants will ers, but also assistants and mechan- say there are six or seven drivers capa- spres and Spaniard Marc Coma, fi ve- television antenna at his home 22 years The 2017 race will be the ninth get a day off on Sunday to see a little of ics,” said Peterhansel, who started off in ble of winning — at Peugeot of course time winner with KTM and now on ago. time the Dakar has been held in South the Bolivian capital La Paz, the world’s 1988, when the race still remained true but also Toyota, and even Mini, with board with organisers ASO. Croizon brought out a book, entitled America. The race was cancelled in highest capital at 3,600m. to its African origins. Mikko Hirvonen coming up on the Many eyes will also be on the progress I Decided To Live, and turned to sport, 2008 over security threats in Mauri- The thin conditions of the region will “If you feel a little off one day you rails”, following his maiden fourth place of brave Frenchman Philippe Croizon, a swimming the English Channel six tania, organisers taking the decision pose a severe endurance challenge. could lose everything and that’s true for showing last year. quadruple amputee who will be driving years ago and also completing the In- to move the rally to another continent “There is a little uncertainty as re- all drivers, even those who have spent The motorbikes section is also look- a specially adapted buggy. Croizon, 48, tercontinental Straits Swimming Chal- in 2009.

RECOGNITION Indian court orders removal of BCCI chief AFP under their guidance.” Lodha said New Delhi Thakur’s removal was an inevitable con- sequence of the board’s foot-dragging. “One should understand that when udges yesterday ordered the the order of the Supreme Court, which is dismissal of the Indian cricket the highest court of the land, has come, board’s president over the failure it has to be obeyed by all. to enact a series of recommend- It is the law of the land. Nobody can Jed reforms, plunging the game’s most escape it,” Lodha told reporters. powerful body into turmoil. The judges also ordered Thakur to ex- In a shock ruling, a panel of Supreme plain why he allegedly lied on oath about Court judges said Board of Control for seeking a letter from the International Cricket in India (BCCI) president An- Cricket Council stating that Lodha’s urag Thakur and its number two Ajay recommendations amounted to govern- Shirke must stand down immediately. ment interference. Thakur said he would respect the de- They threatened to charge him with cision, while voicing bitterness at the perjury and contempt of court. court for siding with a retired judge who Thakur, who has until January 19 to had been demanding the shake-up in reply to the contempt notice, only took the BCCI’s governance. over as head of the BCCI in May 2016. “The Supreme Court passes an order But he had been eff ectively running directing the BCCI president and secre- the board for much of the previous year tary to desist from any board functions as secretary as a result of the illnesses from hereon,” said the ruling. and absences of his superiors. The order comes after judges slapped Thakur said the game’s administra- restrictions on the BCCI’s accounts last tion and development had been at “its year over its failure to implement a se- very best” under his stewardship. ries of reforms recommended by a panel “India has the best cricket infrastruc- headed by a former top judge, Rajendra ture, built and maintained by the state Mal Lodha. associations with the help of BCCI,” he Cricket’s massive popularity in India said.”India has more quality players than has helped the BCCI become by far the anywhere in the world.” wealthiest of all of the sport’s national India, the world’s number one-ranked boards, netting massive money from Test team, is in the middle of a busy sea- sponsorship and TV deals. son, with England due to play a one-day But it has also been embroiled in a se- In this photograph taken on June 24, 2016, President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Anurag Thakur (L) addresses a press conference in Dharamsala series later this month ahead of tours by ries of scandals, including accusations along with secretary Ajay Shirke. Australia and Bangladesh. of corruption and match-fi xing that Veteran commentator Ayaz Memon tarnished the Indian Premier League Srinivasan after his son-in-law was ac- included age limits and term limits on In a video message posted on social maker for India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata said the turmoil should not have an im- (IPL) — the board’s lucrative Twenty20 cused of betting on matches. offi ce-bearers, had triggered a number media, Thakur indicated he would abide Party. pact on the fi eld but important issues competition. The elevation of Thakur and Shirke of legal battles. by the verdict while expressing bitter- “I respect the Supreme Court as any would remain up in the air until a new A corruption and match-fi xing scan- had been seen as representing a break The recent series against England was ness at the decision. citizen should. Supreme Court judges leadership team is put in place. dal in the sixth edition of the IPL in with the past. nearly cancelled on the eve of the fi rst “For me, it was not a personal battle. feel that BCCI could do better under re- “It’s not just hosting of the IPL but 2013 brought about the downfall of the But the board’s reluctance to imple- Test as a result of the funding restric- It was a battle for the autonomy of the tired judges, I wish them all the best. there are broadcast rights and so many board’s then-president Narayanaswami ment Lodha’s recommendations, which tions. sports body,” said Thakur, who is a law- I am sure Indian cricket will do well other things,” he told AFP.