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Wednesday, July 19, 2017 FOOTBALL Shawaal 25, 1438 AH Klopp backs GULF TIMES Sturridge to fi re for Liverpool SPORT Page 3 FOOTBALL Confi dent Qatar plot path to AFC U-23 Championship Felix Sanchez’s boys take on Turkmeniistan in qualifying match today at Al SPOTLIGHT Sadd Sports Club, while India take on Syria in the second match Long-term goals By Sahan Bidapa In the previous edition of the Doha championship held in Qatar, the hosts finished fourth, losing to Iraq in ex- the focus for India tra-time in the third place play-off. elix Sanchez looked unper- And some of the players who featured turbed on the eve of the Asian in the 2016 tournament, will also be coach Constantine Under-23 Championship available this time, which will give Fqualifi er yesterday. The Span- Qatar much-needed experience of ish coach has too many things on his big competitions. Asim Madiboo and By Sahan Bidappa plate these days. Besides managing Akram Afif again form the core of the Doha the Under-23 Qatar team, Sanchez has team and Sanchez said their experi- also been the given the task of over- ence would be invaluable. seeing the Qatar national team, albeit “The boys have performed well last tephen Constantine is used to temporarily, after Uruguayan Jorge edition but this is a new tournament the underdog tag. The Indian Fossati resigned abruptly last month. and we’ve to start from the scratch. football national team coach, Sanchez will prepare Qatar for their It’s time for us to execute our plans Spresently in charge of the In- remaining 2018 World Cup qualifiers on the pitch. There are few players dia U-23 team, doesn’t mince words against Syria and China. But before who play in the senior national team. when he says his main focus is to pro- that, the Spaniard has tough task of While for the rest it’s an opportunity duce fi ne talent than qualify for the ensuring his U-23 team qualify for to show they can also represent the AFC U-23 Championship. next year’s AFC U-23 Championship senior team,” Sanchez said. Constantine and his boys are in in China 2018. Turkmenistan are missing few play- Doha for the AFC U-23 Championship With the Group C qualifying ers to injuries but coach Agamyra- qualifi ers, where they will battle with matches to be held in Doha over the dov Ahmet was hopeful the available hosts Qatar, Syria and Turkmenistan next five days, starting from today, squad can spring some surprises in for a place in the main event in China the pressure will be on Sanchez to the tournament. next year. deliver. However, on the tournament “We have three difficult matches. Only group winners will qualify eve, the Spanish coach was calm and We have some players who have not automatically, with the fi ve best run- composed, confident his team can de- travelled because of injuries. But we ners-up across all groups also making liver on the home turf. will try to do well with the players we it through. But Constantine knows “We have been training for the last have,” said Ahmet. what is in front of him and his boys and few weeks for the competition. All the “Qatar has some good players. I says he prefers the ‘long-term goals’ India coach Stephen Constantine. three matches are going to be tough but have some information and know rather than churn out quick results. we are ready in terms of preparation. some of their players. I know Afif is “I’ve been a person who have al- “So if you don’t give importance We want to win all three matches and very a good player but there are others ways preferred to build a team for the to these age groups, then we won’t qualify for the Asian Cup,” said Sanchez too. It will be a good match. They have future. I’m working with this bunch qualify for the major tournaments. in the press conference yesterday. players with good mentality and it will of guys so that a few may come up This time we have assembled the boys Qatar will take on Turkmenistan in be a huge challenge for my side,” add- the ranks and land up with the senior barely three weeks ago. There are their opening match today at Al Sadd ed the Turkmenistan coach. national team in the coming days,” players with whom I have not worked stadium today, followed by India on A lot on his plate: Qatar coach Felix Sanchez said Constantine ahead of his team’s before. So it will be very diffi cult for Friday and Syria on Sunday. Only Schedule Group C opener against Syria today at our players against bigger teams. From group winners will automatically level, said his team had the ability to ready after intense preparations which Today: Al Sadd stadium. this group I expect one or two players qualify for next year’s main event. The win all three matches and take the di- included a few practice matches. India vs Syria at 5pm Unlike in Qatar, where the Un- to come into the national team and five best runners-up across all groups rect route to the qualification. “We have been preparing for these Qatar vs Turkmenistan at 8pm der-23 teams play plenty of matches that will be the objective,” Constan- will also qualify for the finals. How- “The boys are very motivated to games for the last few weeks and we Friday home and away in preparation for the tine added. ever, if hosts China win their group play these matches. A lot of these are looking forward to the qualifiers. Turkmenistan vs Syria at 5pm big tournaments, Constantine only The weather in Qatar has been or are among the best five runners- players played for Qatar in the un- These three games are surely going to India vs Qatar at 8pm had three weeks to assemble the team. extremely hot throughout but that up, the sixth best runner-up will also der-18 and under-16 age groups and be tough, but we’ll try to perform well Sunday A proposed tour to United States was hasn’t bothered Constantine much. qualify. they know what they are going to face. and we’ll try to reach our first objec- India vs Turkmenistan at 5pm cancelled and they had to contend “I don’t think the weather will be a Sanchez, who has been involved And they are looking forward to play- tive which is to qualify for the Asian Qatar vs Syria at 8pm with two friendly matches against problem. It has been hot in India and with U-23 boys for a long time, having ing the first game tomorrow,” he said. Championships. We have to stay very (All matches at Al Sadd Sports Singapore, in which they won one and we are physically ready for the games,’’ coached them at the U-16 and U-18 The Qatar coach said his boys were competitive for that,” said Sanchez. Club) lost another. he stated. Unlike Syria, who appeared at the India have two or three players to 2014 and 2016 U-23 fi nals, India are watch out for in the tournament. One BOTTOMLINE yet to progress further than the quali- such player is forward Lalianzuala fi ers. And Constantine was keeping Changte. The teen sensation from Mi- the expectations to bare minimum. zoram, having trained at Liverpool’s “There will be diffi cult matches for youth academy at Kirkby, made his us over the next fi ve days, but these are mark, when aged 18, he became the the games you want to play. We will second youngest Indian to score in an give everything we have and hopefully international match against Nepal in Spain’s football federation we can get some positive results,” he the SAFF Championship in 2015. said. Changte has already made four ap- The Englishman has been the bed- pearances for the senior side and has rock of Indian football in his two drawn comparisons with the Indian stints. Under Constantine’s tutelage, great Baichung Bhutia. Top scorer in chief held in fraud probe India have risen to 96th spot in the his debut season in the U-19 I-League, FIFA rankings, which is their best in Changte did, though, suff er a set- AFP on allegations of skimming prof- He was reelected unopposed for an the last two decades. back with the national side when they Madrid its from international matches, the eighth term in May despite allegations India were ranked 171 when Con- failed to qualify for the 2016 AFC U-19 source told AFP. of vote-rigging that cast a shadow stantine took over for the second Championship in Qatar. An investigating magistrate from over his win. time in February 2015 but under the However, with football on the rise olice raided the headquarters Spain’s political and fi nancial crimes Following his re-election in May, El 54-year-old there has been meteoric in India – headlined by the upcoming of Spain’s football federation court is leading the probe into allega- Pais newspaper denounced his “des- rise. Still more needs to be done, espe- FIFA U-17 World Cup the nation will yesterday and arrested its tions of “collusion, fraud, embezzle- potic” management and bemoaned cially at the age-group level, says the host in October– a new star to lead the president Angel Maria Villar ment and presumed forgery.” his close ties to FIFA and UEFA leaders Indian senior coach. beautiful game’s revolution is needed: asP part of an anti-corruption probe. Police who carried out raids on the embroiled in corruption probes. “India’s FIFA ranking doesn’t have Changte could be that man. Villar, 67, a senior vice president of federation headquarters and other lo- Villar senior has overseen a glorious anything to with Under-23 level. It’s FIFA, world football’s governing body, cations related to the probe said that period in the Spanish national team’s a completely diff erent aspect,” said India’s 23-member squad was being held on suspicion of abus- Villar is suspected of organising in- history as they won three consecu- Constantine as a matter of fact. “The ing his position to embezzle funds ternational football matches as part tive major tournaments, triumphing reason India doesn’t do well at U-23 Goalkeepers: Vishal Kaith, Kamaljit Singh, from the federation, among other of a scheme to embezzle funds for the at Euro 2008 and 2012 either side of a level is because we don’t give impor- Sukhadev Patil charges, the source said. benefi t of his son. fi rst ever World Cup in South Africa in tance to age groups as we should. In Defenders: Salam Ranjan Singh, Lalruat- FIFA declined to comment on the Inigo Mendez de Vigo, a spokesman 2010. the league we don’t have too many thara, Jerry Lalrinzuala, Davinder Singh, arrest, with a spokesman saying it was for the Spanish government, told pub- But his critics say his period in U-23 players. Nishu Kumar, Sairuathkima, Sarthak Golui, an “internal aff air” for Spain despite lic television in response to the Villar charge has also been undermined by “We have players with us here who Kamalpreet Singh Grewal Villar’s years as a top international Spain’s football federation (RFEF) arrest that “no-one is untouchable ethical questions and an autocratic don’t have teams. We have some play- Midfielders: Anirudh Thapa, Nikhil Poojari, football administrator. president Angel Maria Villar is led by and everyone must obey the law.” management style. ers who have played just maybe 5-6 Nandha Kumar, Germanpreet Singh, Maw- His son Gorka along with federation Spanish Civil Guards during a raid at Villar, a former acting president and Javier Tebas, the head of the Span- games the whole season,” the English- ihmingthanga, Vinit Rai, Robinson Singh, vice president and fi nancial chief Juan the Spanish Soccer Federation head- current vice president of UEFA, which ish league, has had a long-running man, who has also coached Sudan, Lallianzuala Changthe Padron were also held in connection quarters in Las Rozas, outside Madrid, runs European football, has headed feud with Villar and refers to him as a Malawi, Rwanda and Nepal national Forwards: Hitesh Sharma, Alen Deory, with the probe which notably focuses yesterday. the Spanish federation since 1988. feudal baron. teams, noted. Manvir Singh, Daniel Lalhlimpuia. Gulf Times 2 Wednesday, July 19, 2017 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT TAKING A STAND Arsenal want fresh blood but Sanchez Mourinho pleased stays, says Wenger

AFP Shanghai

rsenal manager Arsene as ‘top striker’ Wenger said yesterday he wants to make more new signings before the seasonA begins next month and batted away fresh doubts about the future of Alexis Sanchez. Wenger is under pressure after the Premier League side failed Lukaku scores to qualify for the Champions League for the fi rst time in 20 ‘It’s easy to feel it because he was my player four years ago his evolution has been years, and he is also dealing with persistent doubts about several great. He’s now a top striker. The goal is just a detail, not important’ of his star players. Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger Chief among them is the fu- attends a training session. ture of attacker Sanchez, who has a year left on his Arsenal little attention to more media contract but is stalling over an reports linking Sanchez with a extension. move away from Arsenal. Wenger said that rather than The 28-year-old was quoted in sell his best players, he is in the Chilean media at the weekend as market to add to his squad. saying he wanted to play Cham- “We are still open to strength- pions League football. ening our team with play- Wenger said he had not spo- ers coming from outside,” the ken to the player since the quotes Frenchman, who has already emerged and Sanchez is not on signed defender Sead Kolasinac the tour in China as he takes time and striker Alexandre Lacazette out on holiday. this summer, told the Arsenal But Wenger added: “I do not website. give too much importance to “We are very active in the things that are translated. “From transfer market and have already that interview what I got was realised two incomings. that he didn’t really mean that “We have to keep a balance as (about leaving Arsenal to play well, that you don’t destabilise Champions League football). the team too much by bringing in “The main focus for us is the too many players. Premier League and the Premier “But we are still active in the League for me today is more transfer market so let’s see what important than the Champions kind of opportunities we can League. fi nd.” “We played 20 years in the Separately, speaking at a Champions League — 17 years Shanghai press conference on before Sanchez arrived and three the eve of a friendly with Bay- with him — so he can get us back ern Munich, Wenger said he paid in it.”

TRANSFER Keeper Hart joins West Ham on loan

Reuters manager. London Although he will not play against City in the league, Hart could face his parent club as soon ngland goalkeeper Joe as Aug 4 in a pre-season friendly Hart has joined West match in Iceland. Ham United on a season- West Ham’s season starts Manchester United’s Romelu Lukaku in action during his team’s pre-season friendly match against Real Salt Lake in Sandy, USA. long loan from Premier against Manchester United at LeagueE rivals Manchester City, Old Traff ord nine days later. AFP former Chelsea player was now a “top pearing to suggest Saucedo was to blame. to deal with. the London club announced yes- “I’ve obviously left Manches- Salt Lake City, United States striker.” “(He) was really aggressive in the sec- A surging run from Savarino set up terday. ter City on loan this season, but “It’s just nice for him, not important ond half. That’s what happens. Some Silva’s opening goal on 23 minutes. The 30-year-old played for the club as a whole, especially for me,” Mourinho said of Lukaku’s fi rst other actions were a bit dangerous,” United however responded swiftly Torino in Italy’s Serie A last sea- the supporters, have always been omelu Lukaku bagged his fi rst goal United goal. Mourinho said. with Mkhitaryan’s equaliser just before son on loan. fantastic to me,” said Hart. “I’d in a Manchester United shirt on “Before he scored the goal I told him “It’s young people with enthusiasm the half hour mark. “It’s important for me to play never change how I feel about Monday as the 10-man Premier I love everything you do on the pitch. playing against Manchester United but Real coach Mike Petke, with one eye football, and to get the opportu- that club, as it’ll always be a very League giants laboured to a 2-1 Don’t be worried about scoring or not it’s a friendly match and it’s a diff erent on his team’s MLS fi xture in Portland on nity to come here and play is ab- special club to me. victoryR over Real Salt Lake in Utah. scoring. He gets behind people, works mentality. But it’s preseason so no prob- Wednesday, withdrew his entire start- solutely awesome,” he told West “It’ll be fun to play against Lukaku, who joined the Red Devils from and presses well. Like everything he does. lem. It is good experience or us to play ing line-up at the 30-minute mark, Ham TV. them because I’ll be banned Everton in a reported 75 million pound “It’s easy to feel it because he was my with one player less.” and United capitalized to take the lead “To be playing in the Premier when it comes to the actual sea- ($98.2 million) transfer last week, fi red player four years ago his evolution has The United goals were the rare high- through Lukaku. League for a big club like West son, while I’m sure Manchester United ahead on 38 minutes, latching on to been great. He’s now a top striker. The lights of a disjoined fi rst half perform- Mourinho also fi elded a new start- Ham, I’m really looking forward United will welcome me with a low cross from Henrikh Mkhitaryan. goal is just a detail, not important.” ance from Mourinho’s side, who had ing XI for the second half, with Marcus to the season,” added the player, open arms if I get the nod and The 24-year-old Belgian international travelled to Utah from Los Angeles. Rashford and Anthony Martial leading who will be reunited with former start the season away at Old striker had also been involved in United’s RED CARD WOE For much of the opening half United the line for United. City full back Pablo Zabaleta at Traff ord.” equalizer scored by Mkhitaryan in the United’s win was marred by the second- were second best, with their defense United again struggled to impose the Hammers. Media reports have indicated 29th minute after Luis Silva had given half dismissal of Antonio Valencia for a being given a torrid time by a team who themselves however, and their frustra- Hart won the Premier League that City will pay part of Hart’s Salt Lake a shock early lead. reckless lunge on Sebastian Saucedo. are languishing near the foot of Major tion boiled over when Antonio Valencia twice with Manchester City, wages under the deal. Lukaku used his strength and physical Valencia was given his marching orders League Soccer’s Western Conference. was sent off for a reckless lunge on Se- and has been capped 71 times by West Ham fi nished last sea- presence to hold off the Real defense to after a lengthy consultation between the The lively attacking trio of Luis Silva, bastian Saucedo midway through the England, but fell out of favour son in 11th place under Croatian feed Jesse Lingard, who provided the pass match referee and Mourinho. Joao Plata and Jeff erson Savarino often second half. after Pep Guardiola took over as manager Slaven Bilic. for Mkhitaryan to score. “The referee asked me to change the left United’s defense scrambling to get United will face Manchester City in United manager Jose Mourinho was player and I didn’t because I don’t agree into position, with Phil Jones fi nding the Houston tomorrow in the third game of pleased with Lukaku’s display, saying the with the card,” Mourinho said, before ap- movement of the Salt Lake front two hard their US tour. Leicester’s Huth set for lengthy lay-off BOTTOMLINE Leicester City defender thankfully it was successful,” Roberth Huth is set to miss the said boss Craig Shakespeare. start of the Premier League “It’s unfortunate for Robert season after having ankle but we thought it might be surgery. worse. We’re expecting him to The German centre-back — an be out for around six to eight integral part of the Foxes’ weeks.” No bids for Mahrez: Leicester Premier League title-winning Huth has not travelled to Hong Reuters “Mine is really simple: has strengthened his squad after team of 2015/16 — is expected Kong where the Midlands Hong Kong while he is here and while a diffi cult campaign last year as to be sidelined for up to two club will face West Bromwich we have had no bids - and defending champions. months to repair the injury he Albion in the Premier League we haven’t had any bids, “Harry’s got Premier League suff ered in pre-season train- Asia Trophy today. eicester City have yet it’s all been speculation - he experience (at Hull City) and ing, according to Leicester’s The 32-year-old, who’s made to receive any bids for has to be committed to the he’s at a good age,” said Shake- club website. 93 appearances for the King winger Riyad Mahrez, football club” speare, who replaced league- “Robert reported back for Power Stadium outfit since manager Craig Shake- winning coach Claudio Ranieri pre-season and got into some joining from Stoke City in Lspeare said yesterday, despite weeks he’s been back he’s been midway through last season. discomfort with his ankle. February 2015, has stayed at the Algerian announcing his totally committed and really “With Iborra his pedigree He’s had an operation and home to begin his rehab. intention to leave the Premier trained well. speaks for itself. He’s captained League club at the end of last “Outgoings are inevitable Seville, he’s won European tro- Former Italy defender Zaccardo looking for new season. at any football club but un- phies and he’s settled into the club — via Linkedin Mahrez has been linked with til there’s a bid for your player group and is a quality player and a move to AS Roma but the there’s no decision to be made.” that says a lot. Cristian Zaccardo, a 35-year- message, posted in Italian and 2015/16 Premier League cham- Leicester are one of four Eng- “I want competition for plac- old defender who won the English, on LinkedIn. pions had not been contacted by lish top fl ight teams in Hong es, I think players want compe- 2006 World Cup with Italy Zaccardo’s last club was the Italian side about a transfer Kong this week to play in the tition for places. We need that and was 2009 Bundesliga Vicenza, who were relegated for the 26-year-old, he said. Premier League Asia Trophy. and thankfully the club have champion with Wolfsburg, has to Italy’s third division last “Riyad stated his position They are due to take on West backed me in that as well. resorted to a social network season. very clearly,” Shakespeare told Bromwich Albion today while “We will have targets (for the popular with jobseekers in a That prompted the former reporters in Hong Kong. Crystal Palace face Liverpool in season), a lot of them will remain bid to keep playing football. World Cup champion to re- “Mine is really simple: while the other game at Hong Kong internal in terms of me and the “I’m still good physically I scind his contract and become he is here and while we have had Stadium. players and coaching staff . could play 2 more years at a free agent looking for a new no bids - and we haven’t had any Shakespeare will be able to “We know the Premier League high levels... who will take club. bids, it’s all been speculation - give new signings Harry Maguire becomes harder each year, eve- me to make a deal... Serious Earlier in his career, the he has to be committed to the and Vicente Iborra a run out ryone invests heavily and we’re professional soccer player and defender also played for AC football club. against Tony Pulis’ side and the no diff erent, but you have to be strong,” Zaccardo said in a Milan, Parma and Palermo. “And I have to say, in the two Leicester manager believes he competitive.” Gulf Times Wednesday, July 19, 2017 3 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT QATAR STARS LEAGUE

Gharafa sign Ahmed represented El Jaish, was pre- Alaaeldin for two sented to the media on Mon- years day evening, in the presence of club off icials and Cheetahs Al Gharafa have signed Al head coach Jean Fernandez. Rayyan’s former striker Ahmed The dependable left-back has Coach Klopp Alaaeldin on a two-year con- signed a three-year deal with tract, the club confirmed yester- the side, and has been handed day in a press conference. the number eight shirt for The club’s deputy football direc- Gharafa. tor Saad Sattam al-Shemari and Talking on his ambitions with head coach Jean Fernandez the club, the 29-year-old de- attended the press conference fender noted that he is hoping along with Taha al-Muhaiza, the for trophies with the side. “I backs Sturridge to club’s media off icial. came to Al Gharafa because I Al-Shemari said Alaaeldin believe that we can challenge needs no introduction and is a for titles this season. We have strong addition to the squad, a good squad, with strong noting that he had wished to local players and professionals sign him for many years. and should be able to compete For his part, the player in the QSL.” expressed his delight to join fi re for Liverpool Al Gharafa, saying that he is Mahmoud extends no stranger to the club and Umm Salal stay many of his friends play for ‘It has been quite intense what we have done and he has pretty much been part of the Cheetahs. “I was greatly welcomed by supporters and I each session so that is good. He is in good physical shape’ hope to live up to their expec- tations.” Al Gharafa announced yester- day the signing of former El Jaish defender Yousuf Muftah on a three-year deal. QSL side Umm Salal has They had also signed Chil- further strengthened their side ean midfielder Luis Jimenez, ahead of the 2017/2018 QSL Portuguese midfielder Diogo campaign, confirming that Amado and Venezuelan de- midfielder Ismail Mahmoud fender Rubert Quijada. has signed a contract exten- sion with the club. Gharafa also secure Orange Fortress off icials Muft ah deal confirmed the news, adding that Mahmoud has signed a one-year deal with the club with an extension option. Mah- moud has been one of Umm Salal’s most consistent players in recent years, and despite missing a large chunk of last season with an injury has been QSL side Al Gharafa has rewarded with a new deal. continued their busy summer The 30-year-old midfielder transfer window, securing retuned to training on Monday the signature of Qatari player evening, to rejoin his team- Yusef Muftah on a three-year mates who have begun contract. preseason training ahead of Muftah, who had previously the new season.

BUNDESLIGA Aubameyang not for sale, insist Dortmund

YOU GOT THIS: File picture of Liverpool’s Daniel Sturridge with Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp before coming on as a substitute during an FA Cup tie last season.

AFP but Klopp insisted Sturridge was going “Sometimes (the news) is all about Leipzig midfi elder Keita or van Dijk, the Hong Kong nowhere, backing him to return to the bringing in new players but the main Southampton defender. kind of form that almost helped bring thing is how do we improve the players “It is what it is and the transfer mar- Liverpool a league title in his fi rst season we had last season,” said the former Dort- ket is open until the (August) 31st,” said iverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on Merseyside. mund coach, currently playing a waiting the German, whose team kick off their plans to unleash an injury-free “He has been part of a full pre-season game on key transfer targets Naby Keita Premier League campaign at Watford on Daniel Sturridge in the new sea- so far so that is very positive,” Klopp said and Virgil van Dijk. August 12. son with the England striker back before Liverpool take part in the Pre- “The good thing is we did not lose any “I am not easy to frustrate. It’s the Ltraining fully fi t and focused. mier League Asia Trophy also involving player that we want and I expect a lot of transfer market — sometimes things “It’s the best condition he has been in Leicester City, Crystal Palace and West improvement from the players we have.” work out, sometimes they don’t. I have Dortmund’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang attempts a shot past AC since I have been here,” Klopp told re- Bromwich Albion. Salah is one of two new signings Liv- all the players I want, until now. I’m still Milan’s Gabriel Paletta during their International Champions Cup tie. porters in Hong Kong yesterday ahead “It has been quite intense what we erpool have brought with them to Hong relaxed.” of his second full campaign as Liverpool have done and he has pretty much been Kong. Meanwhile, Liverpool arrived in Hong AFP closed as far as he is concerned, manager. part of each session so that is good. He is The Egypt international has hit the Kong on Monday to a deluge of rain and Guangzhou because otherwise we would Sturridge has been troubled by a spate in good physical shape.” ground running with the Reds, scoring fl ood warnings. have run out of time (to fi nd a re- of injuries since joining the Reds from Pre- Amid fanfare over the arrival of record in his fi rst friendly against Wigan last “You have to make the best of the cir- placement),” insisted Zorc. mier League rivals Chelsea in 2013 and hip signing Mohamed Salah to Liverpool, week, while striker Dominic Solanke will cumstances,” said Klopp. “We come from orussia Dortmund yes- Chinese side Tianjin Quanjian problems restricted his impact to just seven signed from Roma last month for an esti- also be looking to impress his new boss England so we are used to a little bit of terday moved to end had also reportedly wanted to goals from 27 appearances last season. mated $45 million, Klopp said his prima- following the 19-year-old’s free transfer rain but yesterday was a little bit too speculation about the pay 80 million euros ($92.6mn) The 27-year-old has recently been ry focus was on seeing his club improve from Chelsea. much. Situations like this are like foot- future of star striker for him, but with three years left linked with a big-money move to China, on last season’s fourth-place fi nish. But Klopp refused to be drawn on ball — you always need to fi nd solutions.” Pierre-EmerickB Aubameyang, on his Dortmund contract, the by insisting the Gabon interna- German club says Aubameyang tional is going nowhere. is staying put. WOMEN’S EURO 2017 Aubameyang, who scored 31 New coach Peter Bosz, who goals in the Bundesliga last sea- has replaced Thomas Tuchel, son, has been linked with big- unsurprisingly would want Au- money moves to Real Madrid, bameyang at Dortmund when Chelsea, AC Milan and Paris the Bundesliga season starts on Saint-Germain in recent weeks. August 18. The 28-year-old netted twice “I am glad that he is in my Germany held by Sweden as yesterday as Dortmund beat AC team,” said the Dutchman. Milan 3-1 on their pre-season “He is an extraordinary player tour of China. and he has shown that once more The transfer window in Ger- against Milan. many closes at midnight (2200 “He’s a great bloke and a great Russia grab shock win over Italy GMT) on August 31, but director footballer.” AFP minute consolation goal. of sport Michael Zorc claimed it Last weekend, Dortmund’s Breda Russia were avenging three 2-0 is eff ectively already shut for Au- managing director Hans- defeats from Italy at previous Euro bameyang. Joachim Watzke had said they tournaments, as well as a 3-0 loss “We have decided that ‘Auba’ expected Aubameyang to stay: olders Germany were in a friendly last December. will stay with Borussia Dort- “We are waiting a few more days, held to a goalless Russia’s high pressing kept mund. The transfer window is but we will not have to wait long.” draw by Sweden while Italy at bay most of the time, and underdogs Russia when that failed, their 19-year- Hstunned Italy as Group B opened old keeper Tatiana Shcherbak Barcelona ‘200%’ certain Neymar will stay at the women’s Euro tournament came to the rescue. in the Netherlands on Monday. Shcherbak cleared a long-range Barcelona vice-president Jordi “In the background of In Breda, Sweden picked up left-foot blast from Marta Car- Mestre insisted yesterday Neymar’s annoyance there’s their fi rst point in 12 competitive issimi in the fi rst half and then that Brazilian star Neymar will always a concern, which has encounters with Germany, who forced out a vicious long-range be staying in Spain despite to do with his role in the team have by now won the European shot from captain Melania Gabbi- rumours linking him with a and his wish to become a title six times in a row and eight adini, curling into her top corner. move to Paris Saint-Germain. leader,” wrote Sport. times overall. Russia’s midfielder Elena Morozova (3rd L) celebrates with teammates after scoring during the UEFA Two minutes from the end, Asked during a press confer- According to Marca, PSG Earlier in Rotterdam, fi rst-half Women’s Euro 2017 match between Italy and Russia at Stadium Sparta Rotterdam in Rotterdam. Shcherbak failed to react to a ence if he could confirm Ney- would be willing to stump up goals from Elena Danilova and random pass which Mauro bare- mar would remain at Barca the 222 million euros ($256.8 Elena Morozova handed Russia a just past the post. under the crossbar, but Chelsea tournament, for us it has been ly touched and which ended up ahead of the 2017-18 season, million) required to trigger surprise 2-1 win over Italy. Sweden then demonstrated keeper Hedvig Lindahl cleared crucial to get a good start.” in the Russian net. Mestre replied: “200 percent”. Neymar’s release clause and In a reprise of the Rio Olympic their strength on the counter- the ball over the bar. In Rotterdam, Russia’s But she produced another Reports in Spain have sug- would off er him a five-year fi nal, Germany kept Sweden un- attack but Stina Blacksten- “In the fi rst half we had a little Danilova struck nine minutes superb save in stoppage time, gested PSG are looking to lure deal worth 30-plus million der pressure in an uneventful fi rst ius failed to deliver following bit too much respect for Sweden into the game with a low shot sending Elisa Bartoli’s header the 25-year-old to the Parc des euros a season. half but they failed to create scor- a superb run as her weak shot but we can be happy with the from outside the box that took onto the crossbar and the goal Princes. However, a report in French ing chances against solid defence. was blocked by keeper Almuth second half,” said Marozsan, an Italian keeper Chiara Marchitelli line, from which the Russian de- “PSG want to finalise the sign- sports daily L’Equipe yester- Their dominance continued Schult who also stopped Lotta Olympique Lyon midfi elder. by surprise at her left post. fence managed to clear it. ing of Neymar this summer”, day quoted a PSG club source in the second half, with substi- Schelin’s breakaway eff ort two Sweden coach Pia Sundhage On 26 minutes, Morozova “We were too deep,” Ital- wrote Catalan daily Sport, as saying: “We’re not going tute Mandy Islacker the biggest minutes later. said she was happy with the re- headed in Ekaterina Sochneva’s ian defender Elena Linari told while the Madrid-based AS to repeat the Neymar show. threat for the Swedish goal. Seven minutes before the end, sult and “especially the way we corner to give Russia a 2-0 lead UEFA’s website. “They were able newspaper led with the head- There is a huge release clause In the 65th minute, she fl icked Islacker fl icked a low pass from defended. which Italy merely reduced to get players in whenever they line “Neymar flirts with PSG”. and you have to be realistic.” a low cross from Carolin Simon captain Dzsenifer Marozsan “It was a good start into this through Ilaria Mauro’s 88th- wanted to.” Gulf Times 4 Wednesday, July 19, 2017 GOLF

SPOTLIGHT CONFIDENT Stenson has loft y ambitions for Spieth: nobody Open defence can dominate game like Tiger ‘What I’m saying is, I doubt you’ll see a dominance like that maybe ever again in the game. I just think guys are learning, guys are getting stronger’

USA’s Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas during a practice round at Royal Birkdale yesterday. At bottom, file picture of Tiger Woods.

Reuters “Once you win one, Southport, England obviously that’s off your shoulder. Given how long and successful a career enrik Stenson is I’ve had, I think that’s known as “The Ice- pretty much what we’re man”, and a year on aiming for, a few more from landing his fi rst chances to win more majorH title after an epic British major championships” Open duel with Phil Mickelson, the Swede was his usual laid- Scottish Open, usually a good back self yesterday. omen for him. Two days before the start of “Looking at my last four Open his title defence at Royal Birk- championships before this one, dale, Stenson said he had mixed I went and played the Scottish feelings about the pressures of Open twice, and fi nished second being the champion. and fi rst at the Open. And the “I never felt it was a big prob- two times I didn’t go I fi nished lem not having won one, even around 40th,” said Stenson, who though I badly wanted to win fi nished tied 26th at Dundonald one,” he told reporters. on Sunday. “But I never walked around Stenson has relished the re- feeling like, oh, I’m one of those sponsibilities of carrying the guys on that list that potentially Claret Jug around the world and are the best players not to have he was sad to hand it back to won a major. I didn’t really feel the tournament organisers this that part. week. “Once you win one, obviously “It had become like part of the that’s off your shoulder. Given family,” he said. “It’s an iconic how long and successful a ca- trophy. It’s been the busiest year, reer I’ve had, I think that’s pretty but also the best year in my pro- much what we’re aiming for, a fessional career. It was certainly few more chances to win more a dream come true winning The major championships.” Open Championship last year.” Stenson beat American Mick- Stenson took the Claret Jug elson with a sparkling fi nal round jet-skiing and if he repeats his Reuters are equally as capable,” he said. of 63 at Royal Troon 12 months triumph he has more unusual Southport, England ‘I think it’s going to be a very Spieth will probably always be judged ago, carding a record British plans. exciting time. You’ll see a group of against his remarkable break-out year Open score of 20 under par to be- “I’m going sky-diving with it,” 10-to-12 guys over the next 15, 20 and he said that his current form was come the fi rst Scandinavian man he said. “And I don’t know which olf is unlikely ever to be domi- years that are going to have a lot of not far off that level — even if he now ac- to win a major. is going to be harder, winning the nated again by a single player in diff erent competitions that come knowledges there won’t be many years Although the 41-year-old Claret Jug again or going sky- the way that Tiger Woods ruled down the stretch with each other’ like 2015. missed the cut in this year’s US diving afterwards, because that the sport, world number three “I haven’t been making as many putts Masters and US Open, he is con- thought scares me a little bit. It GJordan Spieth said yesterday ahead of this the game. I just think guys are learning, as I did that year this year,” he said. “I’ve fi dent of performing well at Birk- won’t stop me from trying to win week’s British Open Championship at guys are getting stronger. struck the ball better than I did in ‘15. I’ve dale a week after playing in the it, though.” Royal Birkdale. “Guys are winning younger, playing actually been in better positions. If you Spieth has come the closest to any more fearless, even in major champion- took hole by hole, I’ve been in a better po- player of repeating the kind of dominance ships, and I just think that it’s so diffi cult sition tee to green than I was that year. AMBITION that Woods enjoyed, producing a magnif- now. “If I putted the same as ‘15 I’d be having icent 2015 season when he captured the “I wouldn’t get your hopes up for a a better year right now. It’s hard to do. So, US Masters and US Open titles and came domination like that whatsoever,” he certain parts of the game I think I’ve im- close to winning the Open and US PGA added. proved on. And others... it’s just fl uctuat- Korean amateur Championship. However, the Texan believes that the ed. And that’s how it will go. It will go like But the 23-year-old American was un- sport will still provide plenty of drama this,” he said. “I recognise that, being fi ve able to maintain that extraordinary level even without an undisputed number one. years in now, and fi ve years doesn’t make Choi sees Hall of of performance in 2016 and says those “I think it’s going to be a very exciting me a veteran but it helps me realise... how hoping for a new king of golf may be wait- time. You’ll see a group of 10-to-12 guys things go. ing in vain. over the next 15, 20 years that are going to “Last year I was pretty caught in 2015, Fame future “I wouldn’t get your hopes up. What have a lot of diff erent competitions that and this year I’m not. This year I recog- Tiger’s done, I just — having experienced come down the stretch with each other. nise that that kind of year, hopefully, we a year like he continued to do for years. It “It’s diff erent than one person being can have another one or two like that. Reuters just takes a lot out of you. It’s very tough the guy to beat. But I think it’s exciting, “But if we keep on trying to improve Seoul to do,” he told reporters. exciting for us as players. You just never each part of the game, stick to the proc- “What I’m saying is, I doubt you’ll see know, and if you play well, you’re going to ess, then we’ll have the results that we a dominance like that maybe ever again in have a chance with these other guys who want.” outh Korean golfer Choi Hye-jin has had to forgo $630,000 in prize money BOTTOMLINE Sover the last two weeks due to her amateur status but the 17-year-old has big plans for her career after she turns profes- teenager and had she not dunked Rose seeks to recapture form of teenage Birkdale bow sional in September. her tee shot into the water at the Hall of Fame plans. par-three 16th while co-leading Reuters the expectation for a number “In some ways I look back and Choi, the world number two the tournament on Sunday, she London of years afterwards took its toll I try to model it, as well — just amateur, fi nished runner-up to might have been returning to coming back, trying to live up the freedom I had that particu- compatriot Park Sung-hyun at South Korea with the trophy. to it,” he said on Tuesday after lar week, the confi dence I had in the US Women’s Open in New “I knew as soon as I hit it, it t was at Royal Birkdale, practice at the links course. my short game, the innocence in Jersey on Sunday, coming within was in the water,” she said of her scene of this week’s Brit- “I feel now, though, at this which I played the game, I think, three shots of becoming the fi rst errant tee shot, adding that she ish Open Championship, stage of my career I’ve some- is still a model. amateur champion since Cath- could not stop thinking about it that in 1998 Englishman what proved that wasn’t a fl ash “I think that when I play my erine Lacoste in 1967. on the fl ight home. IJustin Rose fi rst grabbed the at- in the pan, so I can come back best golf I’m always trying to In addition to missing out “I kept thinking if only I could tention of the golfi ng public in to the Open a little freer than I get rid of things, rather than add on the bumper $540,000 prize hit the shot over again.” astonishing fashion.On the 18th could for a number of years,” he more — get rid of thoughts rath- money due to her amateur sta- While Choi will undoubtedly hole, in the fi nal round, the then added. er than add thoughts. tus, Choi also had to forgo the look back on the tournament as 17-year-old amateur, playing in “I’ve had a few, I would say “When I looked at my per- 100mn won ($88,845) winner’s a missed opportunity, she could his fi rst major championship, outside chances of very good formance here when I was 17 cheque from a Korean event ear- take the domestic KLPGA by chipped his wedge shot, from weeks that I haven’t quite capi- it was very much free, playing lier this month. storm if she maintains this kind thick rough, into the hole for a talised upon in the past... but with freedom and using my nat- Choi, who turns 18 next of form, and there is no doubt- birdie, producing what was de- obviously the record suggests it ural ability. And obviously I had month, fi nished 38th at the US ing the confi dence she has in her scribed as one of the loudest England’s Justin Rose signs autographs for fans during a practice hasn’t been very good since. things going my way, too, that Open last year at CordeValle in own ability. roars ever heard on a course. round at Royal Birkdale. “But I feel that I’m at a stage week. California and arrived at Trump “I’d like to follow Pak Se-ri It also left him with a fi nal now where I can put all those “But when I do look back I do National in New Jersey with and Park In-bee into the Hall round 69 and a tie for fourth in The skinny teenager was ex- 2013 US Open that he fi nally won past performances behind me marvel at how I was able to com- some modest targets. of Fame,” she said of her future his fi rst ever appearance in a ma- pected to be the next great star a major. and refocus on a good week,” he pete so closely down the stretch, “My number one goal was goals. jor championship — although of British golf but it did not work Curiously, though, in the said. and fi nished within two shots of just to make the cut and do bet- Local media quoted her coach, the scorecard that most im- quite like that. British event he has yet to bet- Rose certainly does not try to winning an Open Championship ter than last year,” Yonhap News Park So-young, as saying she had pressed was arguably his second After turning professional, ter that fi nish from 19 years ago, blot out his past, even re-cre- at the age of 17. quoted her as saying yesterday. the potential to do big things. round of 66, the lowest in a day Rose missed the cut in his fi rst 21 something he admits he fi nds ating the shot for an Instagram “I guess for me it was a “I also thought that if things “If she handles the pressures of extremely testing conditions events and although he gradu- puzzling. post last week, and he says he glimpse into what my potential went well I could fi nish in the top of being a professional she will which produced an average score ally built up his form, reputation “There’s no real reason for it. would love to recapture some of is. And hard work will create an- 10.” be a better player than any of us of 74.7. and ranking, it was not until the It’s disappointing. I think maybe the spirit of his debut. other chance here and there.” Things went really well for the expect,” said Park. Gulf Times Wednesday, July 19, 2017 5 SPORT

BASEBALL NFL Cowboys’ Whitehead says dog stolen, Seager’s homer in held for ransom

AFP Elliott involved in Dallas bar altercation Dallas Cowboys star run- ning back Ezekiel Elliott was ational Football involved in a late-night scuf- 10th lift s Mariners League player Lucky fl e at a bar that left a security Whitehead says guard needing hospital treat- ‘I knew the only chance I had was someone stole his ment, several media reports Npitbull dog from his home and said Monday. the force at second. It was the last is refusing to return it unless a Elliott, 21, was not arrested $10,000 ransom is paid. in the incident which took out and if I don’t get it or make an The Dallas Cowboys receiver place at a bar in Dallas on Sun- wrote about the dog-napping day. A 30-year-old bouncer over Astros error, they win the game’ on his Instagram account, say- said he had been physically as- ing the puppy was stolen when saulted but was unable to con- he was away in Florida. White- fi rm the identity of his assail- head has owned the dog for ant, a Dallas police statement about nine weeks. said. “The disturbance involved “I’ve taken some time to a 30-year-old male victim who collect my thoughts on this stated he had been physically subject matter, and it’s very assaulted,” the statement read. heartbreaking to say that Blitz According to the report, the vic- has been stolen from my home tim did not know who assaulted last Sunday,” the 25-year-old him. The victim was transported Whitehead wrote. to an area hospital for non-life “While out of town, Blitz was threatening injuries.” being taken care of by a close Several US media outlets re- friend at my house and some- ported that Elliott was involved one broke in and took him. in the altercation with the man. “Whomever stole Blitz has The incident comes with El- contacted my phone numer- liott already sweating on the ous times, demanding ransom outcome of an NFL investga- money. I strongly advise you to tion stemming from a 2016 ac- stop and return my boy safely cusation of domestic violence. before it gets any worse! If you Elliott was accused by a know of any details regard- former girlfriend of dragging ing Blitz’s whereabouts or who her out of a car in Colum- may be involved in this, please bus, Ohio. Police did not press contact me immediately.” charges in the case but the NFL Whitehead claimed the un- launched its own investigation known thieves initially de- to determine whether Elliott manded $10,000 for the return had breached the league’s do- of the pooch. He said he agreed mestic violence code. to pay an undisclosed sum but Recent reports have said the wanted to make sure the dog NFL is preparing to impose a was alright, saying he has yet one or two-game suspension to hear back. on Elliott over the case. “It’s killing me. It hurts be- Elliott exploded onto the cause I don’t know how he’s NFL scene last year in his rook- being treated. I wasn’t here to ie season after being chosen protect him,” Whitehead said fourth overall by the Cowboys of Blitz. Whitehead had posted in the 2016 draft. numerous pictures of the dog The running back averaged on Instagram and even created more than 100 rushing yards a personal account for him. per game, fi nishing the regular Whitehead said he also had season with 1,631 yards and 15 talked to the police. touchdowns. Seattle Mariners third baseman Kyle Seager slides into home plate to score a run against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

By Ryan Divish of the 10th sent the Mariners to to long reliever Yovani Gallardo Segura made a diving stop and ning to lead the Miami Marlins to Panthers fi re GM Gettleman The Seattle Times a stunning 9-7 victory over the to start the bottom of the ninth. fi red to second for the force out a 6-5 win over the Philadelphia Astros. Segura was asked about Gallardo would either pitch until to end the inning. Phillies on Monday. The Carolina Panthers sacked general manager Dave Gettleman the last play of that inning. the Mariners had a lead or until Seager started the top of the With one out in the 10th, on Monday in a surprise move just nine days before training n a night when they “I knew the only chance I had the Astros won the game. 10th off with a towering solo Derek Dietrich tripled off Phil- camp for the new season gets under way. The Panthers slumped scored fi ve runs off was the force at second,” he said. It looked as though the lat- blast to right. He has homered lies reliever Mark Leiter Jr. (1- from being Super Bowl finalists in 2015-2016 to finishing last in all-star pitcher Lance “It was just ‘go get it.’ It was ter would happen fi rst and quite in each of his last three games. 2). After two intentional walks the NFC South last season with a 6-10 record. Gettleman, 66, had McCullers, a right- the last out and if I don’t get it quickly. Jose Reddick led off the Valencia provided some cushion. loaded the bases, pinch hitter AJ been the general manager of the outfit since 2013. “After much handerO that has tied them in or make an error, they win the inning with a double to right fi eld. On a night when the game Ellis grounded to shortstop, and thought and a long evaluation of our football operations, I have knots and shut them down in game. I tried to make the play as Defeat seemed imminent for seemed destined to slip away, Philadelphia got a force play at decided to relieve Dave Gettleman of his duties as general man- recent outings, the Seattle Mari- quick as I (could).” the Mariners. But Segura simply the Mariners went out and won the plate. Gordon then singled ager,” team owner Jerry Richardson said in a statement. ners still appeared destined for Of course, given how the game wouldn’t allow it. He got the fi rst it. It started by roughing up Mc- to right-centre to win the game. “I want to thank Dave for the role he played in our success over yet another loss at Minute Maid had gone, there was no guaran- out of the inning with a tough Cullers. They hadn’t scored more the past four seasons. While the timing of this decision is not Park – their personal house of tee that the bottom of the 10th stop and off balance throw to get than one run in each of their last RESULTS ideal, a change is needed.” The Charlotte Observer said Gettle- horrors and misfortunes. would be simple. Closer Edwin Marwin Gonzalez for the fi rst out. four meetings against McCullers. Marlins 6 Phillies 5 man’s dismissal had come as a surprise to employees, including The Houston Astros, the Diaz was pitching in his fourth The Mariners intention- The Mariners chased Mc- Mariners 9 Astros 7 (10th inn) the team’s scouting organisation. American League’s best team, game in four days - always a ally walked Yuli Gurriel, bring- Cullers with two outs in the fi fth Nationals 6 Reds 1 Gettleman forged a reputation as an uncompromising manager looked every bit the part, erasing dicey proposition. ing Nori Aoki to the plate. The after Seager scored Ben Gamel Blue Jays 4 Red Sox 3 but several of moves angered Panthers fans, notably letting the Mariners’ leads and crushing But the young closer made former Mariner hit a ground ball from third with an infi eld single Orioles 3 Rangers 1 wide receiver Steve Smith leave in 2014. The decision to release their hopes with each opportu- it look simple, working a 1-2-3 to Segura, who fi red home to get to the left side to make it 5-2. Pirates 4 Brewers 2 Josh Norman last year also raised eyebrows. Smith couldn’t nity. But two brilliant defensive 10th for his 17th save and clos- Reddick at the plate. Seattle then Seattle ended McCullers’ Cardinals 6 Mets 3 resist a jab at the axed Gettleman in a posting on Twitter on plays by shortstop Jean Segura ing the Mariners’ best win of the intentionally walked Brian Mc- streak of 27 consecutive starts Twins 4 Yankees 2 Monday: “It’s okay Dave, I know how you feel...” in the bottom of the ninth staved season. Cann to load the bases. of allowing three runs or less at Tigers 10 Royals 2 Former running back DeAngelo Williams, who was also let go by off a seemingly inevitable walk- With all of his setup men hav- Alex Bregman then hit a home to start a career. Rockies 9 Padres 6 Gettleman and is now a free agent, added: “I want to publicly say off victory, and back-to-back ing been used while trying to win ground ball deep into the hole Giancarlo Stanton slugged Cubs 4 Braves 3 @Panthers is off my list of teams I won’t play for due to the firing solo homers from Kyle Seager the game in regulation, manager at shortstop. It appeared headed two homers, and Dee Gordon hit Rays 3 Athletics 2 of that snake Dave gettleman!” and Danny Valencia in the top Scott Servais turned the ball over for the game-winning hit, but a walk-off single in the 10th in- Indians 5 Giants 3

NBA Rockets put up for sale by owner Alexander

Reuters weight of ownership had taken a Celtics ink Pierce to one day contract New York toll on Alexander who wants to fo- cus more of his time and energies on American forward Paul Pierce signed a one-day contract with philanthropic eff orts and family. the Boston Celtics on Monday in a move that allows him to retire he National Basketball As- “I’ve made this decision after as a member of the NBA franchise. sociation’s Houston Rockets much deliberation with my family The 39-year-old Pierce spent the first 15 years of his career with are up for sale, the team said and friends and do so knowing the Boston, helping the club to a league championship in 2008. on Monday. franchise is in great shape with the “It’s an honor to have this opportunity to once again call myself TBillionaire businessman and fi nan- players, coaches and management a Boston Celtic,” said Pierce, a 10-time all star. “The organiza- cier Leslie Alexander bought the club team in place,” added Alexander. tion and city took me in and made me one of their own, and I before the start of the 1993-94 season “CEO Tad Brown will oversee the couldn’t imagine ending my career any other way.” for a sales process with the league of- “I’m a Celtic for life.” reported $85mn and it was recently fi ce, supported by my management Team owner Wyc Grousbeck said they also plan to retire Pierce’s valued at $1.65bn by Forbes. team.” No. 34 so that no other player will be able to wear it. “It’s been my great joy and honour With Yao Ming as the team’s cen- Pierce averaged 19.7 points and 3.5 assists while playing in to own the Houston Rockets for the trepiece, the Rockets helped popu- 1,343 career games with the Celtics, Brooklyn Nets, Washington past 24 years,” Alexander said in a larise the game globally, and particu- Wizards and Los Angeles Clippers. statement released by the team. larly in China which is now the NBA’s “I’ve had the incredible oppor- biggest market outside of the United tunity to witness true greatness States. through the players and coaches who “Leslie Alexander is a true com- have won championships for the city, petitor who always searched for the been named to All-Star and All-NBA right move to make his teams better,” teams, enshrined in the Basketball said NBA commissioner Adam Silver Hall of Fame, and done so much for in a statement. “Under his owner- our franchise and our fans.” ship, he created a culture of excel- The Rockets, who won back-to- lence with strong management that back titles in 1994 and 1995, fi nished attracted Hall of Famers, All-Stars last season with the third best record and coaching giants and brought two in the Western conference but un- NBA championships and four WNBA derlined their championship ambi- titles to Houston. tions by signing James Harden to a “Well-respected around the contract extension earlier this month league, he has been an active and in- that will pay him $228mn over the fl uential owner whose vision helped next six seasons. to grow the game globally, especially Rockets CEO Tad Brown said the in China.” Gulf Times 6 Wednesday, July 19, 2017 SPORT

NBA RUGBY Kafer aims to make Australia great again Knicks heading in in new ARU role

AFP season has proved a public re- Sydney lations disaster off it. Kafer played 12 times for the Wallabies in 1999 and 2000, ormer Wallabies back including two Rugby World new direction with Rod Kafer wants to help Cup matches in 1999 at the make Australian rugby tournament where Australia great again after being won a second Webb Ellis Cup. chargedF with setting up a Na- Although the Wallabies tional Coaching Advisory Pan- were once famed for playing el, his fi rst offi cial role in the running rugby, Kafer thought game for more than a decade. the job of the new panel would The TV pundit and business- be about more fundamental or without Carmelo man, widely regarded Down issues than imposing central Under as one of the sharpest strictures over what style of ‘We’re going to be consistent in everything we do and let’s have fun doing it together’ observers of the game, has been game to play. recruited by the Australian “We have to determine By Steve Popper mendation and we’ll debate it Rugby Union (ARU) as part of a what’s the right mechanism The Record (Hackensack, N.J.) back and forth. But at the end of drive to arrest the decline of the for rugby today,” he said. the day, I’m giving him the room 15-man code. “(But) every player that gets to make those decisions.” His fi rst priority in his role, to Super Rugby level should be or 45 minutes the Knicks’ If that sounds like the Knicks Kafer said, would be to tap into able to catch and pass the ball newly-organised trio remain an Escher painting the “tremendous amount” of consistently under pressure. of leaders - team presi- brought to life - one comment rugby knowledge that exists “We should position players dent Steve Mills, general directly contradicting the prior around the country and re- who get into professional rug- managerF Scott Perry and coach one, a stairway leading up to a turn to a time when Australian by with a skill-set appropriate Jeff Hornacek - sat on a stage and basement - well, that’s exactly rugby was renowned for its in- for the level of the game they did not say one thing to make the the way it always is. Maybe this vention. are playing, and we probably franchise shudder. is a kinder, gentler version - but “We all remember when rugby don’t always get that at the If that sounds like a low bar, a better one? That remains to be was great, and what it brought moment.” well, that’s what 17 seasons with seen. to us, and we need to get back Kafer, whose only coach- one playoff series win and a rep- Mills stressed that the goal is there,” he told reporters. ing experience was 18 months utation for comic ineptitude will a younger, more athletic team. “When Australia was great, at English club Saracens, said do for you. There were no short- Hornacek said that hustle and we recognised that there was restructuring the game, par- sighted arrogant shots delivered at defense will be the lynchpins a team who were innovative, ticularly at high performance Carmelo Anthony. of this team. Perry insisted he they were thoughtful, they level, was “critical” and more There were no digs at the young won’t look back, instead working were prepared to bring some- should be done to keep in face of the franchise, Kristaps on ways to push forward. thing a little bit diff erent. touch with Australian coach- Porzingis. There wasn’t a decla- It’s all refreshing to hear, un- “We need to establish in ing talent abroad. ration of a championship. And no less you are a long-time Knicks Australia a concept of a unity of “Every player and coach has one said that tickets are worthless watcher who wonders if talk of purpose. What are we about? a part to play in developing fu- with a Sam Hinkie/Sixers tank job culture change and new regimes What are things that when ture Wallabies, Wallaroos and on tap. sounds awful familiar. If Perry somebody looks at an Austral- Olympians, and the more re- From the carefully scripted in- can change it his arrival will her- ian rugby team play, they can sources we provide to improve troduction from Princeton-edu- ald a new era. If not, he will fi nd immediately identify?” those players the better our cated Steve Mills to the heartfelt himself grouped with the likes of Australian rugby has strug- future will be,” he added. shoutouts to family by Perry, the Jackson, Glen Grunwald, Don- gled at test and Super Rugby “It’s a privilege to be joining only new face in the bunch, to nie Walsh and the rest who were level this year on the pitch, the ARU and trying to make Hornacek’s emphasis on an en- brought in and saw that there while the process of cutting a diff erence, rather than just tirely diff erent approach on the is nothing so ingrained as the either the Western Force or voicing an opinion on it, as court, it was hard to argue with Knicks’ culture. Melbourne Rebels for next many of us do.” anything that was said. “Culture is what we do on And perhaps that’s because a daily basis, and we have ac- not much was actually said in countability, that we have or- the long session. Phil Jackson, ganization, that we have a shared With leukaemia in remission, Lealiifano relaxing in Montana, is not in the vision and focus in everything returns for Super rugby playoff room anymore. we do – whether it’s scouting The biggest elephant in the or meeting or going to evaluate Australia and ACT Brumbies back Christian Lealiifano will room for the Knicks’ front offi ce prospects or observing practic- make his Super rugby return in the playoff against the Wel- is Carmelo Anthony, who re- es,” Perry said. lington Hurricanes on Friday, less than a year after being mains in limbo. After 18 months “We’re going to be consistent diagnosed with leukaemia. of poking and prodding by Jack- in everything we do. And above Lealiifano, who has played 19 Tests for the Wallabies at flyhalf son, he fi nally acquiesced to the and beyond, let’s have fun doing and inside centre, was named on the bench on Tuesday for waiving of his no-trade clause to it together. the Brumbies’ quarter-final against the reigning Super rugby accept a deal to Houston. “And I think we have to make champions at Canberra Stadium. With the naming of Perry as sure everybody checks their egos The popular 29-year-old was told in February that his leukae- the new GM, a fresh face who and agendas at the door, and mia was in remission after he had undergone chemotherapy was not part of the digs directed when we come in this building, and a bone marrow transplant from his sister late last year. at Anthony, the Knicks have tak- lege buddy of Mills or a friend of tance. There remains the status just as he was when Jackson was we’re going to be united as one. “It would be a gamble if I thought he wasn’t right to play,” en a reset on the talks that had Perry’s discussing the inadequa- of Porzingis, who skipped his team president. We can agree to disagree inter- Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham said on Monday. “But the not come to fruition. cies of Anthony. There were no exit interview and still has not But Jackson is the only depar- nally but when we get done going way that he’s trained with the team over the last three months While there was talk of a formal declarations of war. And found peace with the team - al- ture so far. Will Perry be able to through our own processes we’re gives me a fair indication that he’s ready to play.” Lealiifano’s pause, Anthony’s side has not in those simple steps this group though Mills said he has spoken be his own man? He and Mills going to be together every step of inclusion was one of a string of changes made to the squad by given any indication that he is took a step ahead of Jackson’s to him, “Two or three times,” in spoke about their long-term the way. Larkham, who rested a raft of players for last weekend’s 28-10 now willing to turn back and join reign over the organisation. addition to a, “hectic texting re- friendship and mutual respect. “And that’s the exciting part loss to the Waikato Chiefs. forces with this group. But can they actually move lationship.” That’s wonderful, but will Perry of it for me. And I think Steve is That left the Brumbies, who qualified for a home quarter-final “I’m not going to look back on forward as they repeatedly And as they sat there Mon- be able to make the moves that part of that. And again, I got to as winners of the Australian conference, with a 6-9 record what happened with Carmelo stressed in this session? The day afternoon there was no in- need to be made to shake this know Steve over the years and for the regular season. Inside centre Kyle Godwin and winger and Phil,” Mills said. “What I summer wasn’t exactly without dication yet that anything has franchise out of the downward I’ve come really respect his bas- Aidan Toua were unavailable for selection because of injury know is that I’ve been in com- a bizarre whiff that fi ts right in changed other than Jackson be- spiral it’s been caught in? ketball acumen but also his busi- with Andrew Smith and James Dargaville getting the starts in munication with Carmelo and among the sordid history of the ing relocated from his grim vis- “I’m going to give Scott the ness acumen.” their stead. The Brumbies must become the first Australian his team following the season. I franchise, even without Jack- age peering from 10 rows back room to make basketball deci- Mills, seated next to Perry, team to beat a New Zealand side in 26 attempts this season think we will be a good develop- son’s fi ngerprints on it. at Madison Square Garden to a sions and make recommenda- added, “And I think for us the if they are to secure a semi-final in South Africa against the ing team if Carmelo is part of the There was the selection of the lakeside stroll in Montana. tions to me,” Mills said. accountability part is not just Lions or the Sharks. team. We’ll be a good develop- lottery pick, Frank Ntilikina, Mills is one of the longest- “He’s going to have a chance about the front offi ce, it’s what The high-scoring Hurricanes have been better than the Brum- ing team if he isn’t. We’ll be in that was left in Jackson’s hands, serving front offi ce executives to manage the coaching staff , can the players expect from each bies in almost every department this season, and hammered constant communication with just days before he was fi red. at the Garden, having his seat manage the scouting staff , and other I think there needs to be a them 56-21 in round nine, but that does not bother Larkham. Carmelo and his camp and we’ll Mills said he was on board with moved a few times in a nearly make recommendations as to clarity in the message we send to “It’s a new season and everything before is irrelevant,” he said. come to some resolution that that. There was the $71 million two-decade stay. James Dolan where we should go as a basket- our players, what we expect, so “We’re pretty happy with the way we’ve prepared for this works well for both us.” contract doled out to Tim Hard- is still the Madison Square Gar- ball organization. I think we’ll be they know what they can expect (match). It’s do or die irrespective of how you’ve gone through Makes sense, right? There was away Jr. by Mills, which Perry den chairman, although he has partners in that in the sense that from us and each other.” the season, it all comes down to this game.” no blog posted by an old col- said he applauded from long dis- stressed that he will be hands off , he’ll come to me with his recom- That would be a change.

Pakistan beat Oman in volleyball HOCKEY WORLD LEAGUE England women beat India 4-1 to make it to last four IANS England an early 1-0 lead in the Johannesburg sixth minute. They extended the lead in the 13th minute when Alex Danson ndia were outclassed by put the ball past Savita mak- England 1-4 in a quarter- ing this her third goal of the fi nal of the Womens Hockey tournament. India put up a de- World League (HWL) Semi- termined show in the second IFinals here yesterday. quarter - both in defence and The tournament off ers fi ve off ence. They didn’t concede a qualifi cation places for the 2018 goal and earned two penalty cor- FIH World Cup. Following this ners which, though, didn’t result loss, India will have to win the in goals. Though India had con- Asia Cup later in the year to tained England from scoring in qualify for the global showpiece the second quarter, a defensive in England. India lost to a far su- error led to England converting perior England team in terms of a fi eld goal in the 42nd minute physicality, speed and tactics. through Susannah Townsend. England put India on the back India’s lone drag-fl icker Gurjit foot in the fi rst quarter when Kaur struck a brilliant goal beat- they won three back-to-back ing England goalkeeper Maddie penalty corners which fi nally re- Hinch to score a solitary goal for sulted in England being awarded India. USA, Argentina and Ger- Pakistan and Oman players in action during the Sixth Invitational Men’s Volleyball Tournament match at Al a penalty stroke. Giselle Ansley many also won their quarter- Arabi stadium yesterday. Pakistan won 3-1 (17-25, 25-23, 25-14, 25-22). made no mistake in successfully fi nals against Japan, Ireland and taking the penalty stroke to fetch hosts South Africa, respectively. England and India players vying for the ball during the HWL quarters. Gulf Times Wednesday, July 19, 2017 7 SPORT

CYCLING / TOUR DE FRANCE SPOTLIGHT Boasson Hagen denied win for Stage winner Matthews African team on Mandela Day

Reuters blasts ‘unsportsmanlike’ Romans-Sur-Isere, France dvald Boasson Hagen came agonisingly close to delivering Angered by Matthews’ line in the finish, Degenkolb a victory for his African-based Dimension Data team in stage allegedly grabbed Matthews around the neck 16E of the Tour de France on Nelson Degenkolb Mandela Day yesterday. The Norwegian has been the near- AFP ly-man of this year’s Tour, fi nishing Romans-sur-Isère, France second in two stages and third in two others. But losing out to Australia’s Michael ustralian Michael Matthews Matthews in the latest stage was par- hit out at sprint rival John ticularly frustrating, given the signifi - Degenkolb after winning his cance of the day for the African conti- second stage of the 2017 Tour nent’s only World Tour team. deA France yesterday. “This was a really hard stage. The Matthews won a photo fi nish sprint team did very well to keep me at the to claim the 16th stage ahead of Edvald front all day,” he said after wind had Boasson Hagen and Degenkolb. made the 165km trek to Romans-sur- But German Degenkolb was angered Isere such a tough day in the saddle. by the line Matthews took in the fi nish “Everybody did such a great job. Un- and waved his hand at the Aussie as fortunately, in the last corner, I was a they crossed the line. bit too far down. He then allegedly grabbed Matthews “I knew I had to be at the front at around the neck in the area just beyond that point but sometimes these things the fi nishing line. happen. I was probably the fastest rider “I was waiting for the result and he on the last stretch and I almost made it. grabbed me on the way past,” said the “It’s a shame. This was a good 26-year-old. chance for me.” “The offi cials saw it. We’ll see what The team, then known as MTN- the offi cials will do about it. I don’t Qhubeka, won a stage on Mandela Day think it’s very sportsmanlike. two years ago on their Tour de France “From my perspective, I don’t think debut when Steve Cummings took I did anything wrong. I didn’t change stage 14. my line, I sprinted in a straight line. This year, the team suff ered a huge “I’m not sure what was wrong with blow to its chances of winning a stage Degenkolb, but that’s up to him.” when Briton Mark Cavendish, the Matthews also claimed another 50 Tour’s leading active stage winner, points in the sprinters’ green jersey withdrew from the race after a crash on competition to close to 29 points be- stage four. hind Quick-Step’s Marcel Kittel, who The Dimension data team races to has won fi ve stages this year. raise funds for the Qhubeka Charity, Kittel had been dropped early in the which provides bicycles to people in stage on a third category climb as Mat- Africa. thews’s Sunweb team set a fi erce pace. Trek-Segafredo rider John Degenkolb (left) of Germany waves at Team Sunweb rider Michael Matthews (second from left) as they cross the finish line in Stage 16 of Crosswinds in the fi nal 15km of the Tour de France at Romans-sur-Isere, France, yesterday. (Reuters) 165km stage from Le Puy-en-Velay to Romans-sur-Isere then scattered Matthews at the fi nish. “It was a great “Everyone knew that the last 20km in each of the previous four stages but 5. Christophe Laporte (COF) Federer qualifi es groups all over the road meaning a day, it went 10 times better than was would be in the wind with crosswinds,” lost more in this one than he had pre- 6. Jens Keukeleire (ORI) select group of less than 30 riders planned,” added Matthews. said Sky’s Froome. “It was there that viously managed to garner. 7. Tony Gallopin (LOT) for ATP Finals for reached the fi nish together. we decided we had to go, to ride hard “I was a bit sick yesterday and then 8. Tiesj Benoot (LOT) record 15th time “We took it from the word go, at- ‘NOTHING IS LOST’ and try to make a selection.” some of the other guys have been sick 9. Maciej Bodnar (BOR) tacking the whole climb to make it “I can’t say I’m happy at losing all Frenchman Romain Bardet was al- as well,” said Quick-Step’s Martin. 10. Romain Hardy (FRA/TFO) hard for Quick-Step to shut us down,” those points today but what can I do,” most caught out but was paced back “I wasn’t in a bad position, but it said Matthews, who also won a stage said Kittel. to the lead group by team-mate Oliver was probably me who didn’t have the OVERALL STANDINGS on the Tour last year. “It wasn’t our day today but we Naesen, while Fabio Aru had to bridge legs or the power in the wind. 1. Chris Froome (Sky) 68:18:36sec “I kept attacking on the fi rst climb, I have to move on and think of the next a small gap by himself. “It happens. It’s unfortunate. We 2. Fabio Aru (AST) +0:18 felt quite good and when I got to the top chances not missed opportunities.” The Italian remains second at 18sec worked so hard to be in this position 3. Romain Bardet (ALM) +0:23 of climb I heard Kittel was distanced by He added: “Nothing is lost.” with Bardet third at 23sec. but it’s not over.” 4. Rigoberto Uran (CAN) +0:29 almost a minute. I called the boys and Chris Froome retained the over- Froome’s Spanish team-mate Mikel 5. Mikel Landa (SKY) +1:17 they came to the front with big smiles on all lead in a hectic fi nale baulked by Landa reclaimed fi fth place from Mar- STAGE 16 RESULTS 6. Simon Yates (ORI) +2:02 their faces and went full gas.” crosswinds that saw top 10 contenders tin, who dropped to seventh, while 1. Michael Matthews (SUN) 3:38:15sec 7. Daniel Martin (QST) +2:03 The crosswinds got rid of other top Daniel Martin, Louis Meintjes (both Nairo Quintana climbed back into the 2. Edvald Boasson Hagen (DDT) 8. Louis Meintjes (EAU) +6:00 sprinters Andre Greipel and Alexander 51sec) and Alberto Contador (1min top 10 at the expense of Contador. 3. John Degenkolb (TRE) 9. Damiano Caruso (BMC) +6:05 Kristoff , leaving little competition for 33sec) lose time. Martin had picked up a few seconds 4. Greg Van Avermaet (BMC) 10. Nairo Quintana (MOV) +6:16 Roger Federer has secured his place in the ATP Finals for a record MOTORSPORT CRICKET 15th time after the Swiss world number three won a record eighth Wimbledon title on Sunday, the Association of Tennis Profession- Root ‘can’t believe’ als confirmed on Monday. The 35-year-old six-time champion joins French Open winner Rafael F1 shield needs more Vaughan blast aft er Nadal in the season-ending tournament at the O2 Arena in London, having played in the South Africa shocker event for a record 14 consecutive years from 2002-15 before missing work, says Horner out last year through injury. “I look AFP Nottingham, United Kingdom forward to returning to London in Reuters November,” Federer said. “I was London sad not to be able to compete last oe Root was stunned by year as I love playing there and former England captain had not missed the event since ormula One should hold fi re Michael Vaughan’s asser- 2002.” The 19-times grand slam on introducing a new “shield” tion that his side had failed winner has won five tournaments cockpit protection system un- toJ respect Test cricket during their this year, including the Australian til the device has been fully thumping 340-run defeat by South Open, and is on target to return testedF and refi ned, according to Red Africa at Trent Bridge. to the top of the world rankings Bull team principal Christian Horner. Ashes-winning skipper Vaughan, for the first time since 2012 if Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel said the now a commentator with BBC Ra- he maintains the form that has transparent open canopy made him dio’s Test Match Special, made his earned him a 31-2 record. feel dizzy when it was tested briefl y, stinging comments as England lost and for the fi rst time on track, at Sil- seven fi rst-innings wickets for 62 verstone last Friday in British Grand runs to be bowled out in little more Berger’s nephew Prix practice. than 50 overs for 205 in reply to the Auer to test with The German also said forward vi- Proteas’ 335. sion was not very good, with some Root’s 78 was the only fi fty in a “I think that’s very unfair — I can’t Force India distortion from the curvature of the meagre total that left England well believe he’s actually said that. screen, and he felt his helmet being behind in the game. “We pride ourselves on winning Austrian Lucas Auer, the nephew pushed forward on the straights. “The England batting has been ap- series like this, and unfortunately of retired racer Gerhard Berger, “Based on the comments that I’ve palling,” said Vaughan, who played we’ve played poorly this week,” Root will make his Formula One test read from Sebastian, it didn’t sound to alongside Root’s father Matt at the added. debut with Force India in Hungary be too popular,” Horner told reporters Sheffi eld Collegiate Club in Yorkshire in August, the Mercedes-powered after Sunday’s race. and has been a friend of the family ‘ABSORB PRESSURE’ team said yesterday. The 22-year- “It feels immature in its concept since Joe was a boy. But the Yorkshireman accepted his old Mercedes driver is second in at the moment to introduce for next “Maybe it’s a lack of respect about side ought to be able to bat in dif- the German Touring Car (DTM) year. I’m sure it will be discussed in what the game is,” said Vaughan, one ferent styles according to the match championship driving a car in the strategy group on Wednesday.” Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel steps out of his car, which is fitted with the cockpit pro- of the leading Test batsmen of his era. situation, whatever the individual the pink colours of Austria’s The “shield” is designed to protect tection system shield, at Silverstone circuit on Thursday. Vettel had tested the “They look like they are playing preferences of particular players. Best Water Technology (BWT), a the driver’s head from fl ying debris transparent canopy during the practice sessions at Silverstone. (AFP) a Twenty20 game. They have this “We need to make sure we learn prominent sponsor of Force India. and had emerged as the governing approach of attack, attack, attack. quickly... (so that) if we are in a simi- “Really exciting news — the most body’s favoured choice after previous shield and continue to work on it and have to be approved by the FIA’s There is no thought or feeling of see- lar situation (in the third Test) at The beautiful moment of my life. For trials of a “halo” concept whose looks introduce it as and when it is perfect- World Motor Sport Council but that is ing off a bowler or wearing a team Oval, for example, we play it slightly me, it’s a childhood dream come drew criticism. ed,” added Fernley. usually a formality. down.” smarter,” said Root. true to drive an F1 car for the Force India deputy principal Bob “We’ve just got to make a decision The meeting is also expected to England’s second innings was even “Part of Test cricket is trying to first time,” Auer said in a team Fernley, who will attend Wednesday’s on which one we’re going to evaluate discuss future aerodynamic regula- worse, with Root’s men bowled out fi nd a balance of both (attack and statement. Berger competed in meeting in Geneva, said the technical fully.” tions, the race weekend timetable and for just 133 in pursuit of a world- defence) — and even if it’s not your 210 grands prix between 1984 and regulations for 2018 already provided While the shield might be better an obligation on drivers to attend a record target of 474 with more than strength, you build it into your natu- 1997, winning 10 times with Benet- for either the halo or the shield. at defl ecting minor components and number of promotional events, such a day to spare on Monday as South ral game,” he added. ton, Ferrari and McLaren. Russian “We’re committed to do some- debris, the less aesthetically pleas- as a recent one in London. Africa levelled the four-match series “You have periods where you can Formula Three driver Nikita thing, it’s just a question of which di- ing halo could off er greater protection Vettel was asked about that on Sun- at 1-1. absorb a bit of pressure and fi nd Mazepin, who tested with Force rection we decide to go down,” he told against bouncing wheels and heavier day and sounded non-committal. This was England’s sixth defeat the right moment to apply it when India at Silverstone last year, will Reuters yesterday. “That’s for discus- objects. “Without getting too political, we in their last eight Tests and Root, in chances come along. also get another outing at the sion tomorrow. A meeting of the Strategy Group in have contracts with the team and not charge for just the most recent two, “We are capable of doing it and in-season test that follows the July “The best solution would probably April decided to give priority to the with the commercial rights holder,” was taken aback by mentor Vaughan’s have done it previously, but this 30 Hungarian Grand Prix. be to build in the mountings for the shield. Decisions made by the group he said. comments. wasn’t a very good example of it.”

Wednesday, July 19, 2017 GULF TIMES SPORT

TENNIS Qatar rally for victory over UAE in Davis Cup

Agencies ate return to the third tier of the competition Colombo, Sri Lanka in front of home fans this week. Comfortable singles wins for Harshana Godamanna and Sharmal Dissanayake, over atar rallied from 0-1 down to win Seif Adas and Mousa Alkotop, respectively, the Group III Asia/Oceania Davis put the tie beyond doubt, though there was Cup tie against United Arab Emir- a fi tness scare for the duo in the dead dou- ates in Colombo, Sri Lanka. bles as they retired while trailing Alkotop and QQataris contested the tie of the day, win- Hamzeh Al-Aswad 6-4, 6-5 in the third rub- ning the decisive doubles against their close ber. rivals. Pacifi c Oceania was also victorious against Mubarak Shannan Zayid of Qatar scripted a Syria in the other tie in Pool A on Monday, thumping 6-2, 6-0 victory over Fahad Hana- with Heve Kelley battling to a 6-3, 1-6, 6-2 hi to level the proceedings at 1-1, after Omar victory over Yacoub Makzoume before Colin al-Awadhi gave the UAE an early lead beating Sinclair cruised to a 6-4, 6-0 win over Kar- Jabor Al-Mutawa 2-6, 6-4, 6-1. eem Al Allaf. Shannan Zayid rode Qatar’s newfound Pacifi c Oceania is eyeing a place in Group momentum through the deciding rubber, II for the fi rst time since 2012 this week, hav- teaming with Mousa Shanan Zayed to beat al- ing spent the last fi ve years bouncing between Awadhi and Hamad Abbas Janahi 6-,6-4 in Groups III and IV. the decisive doubles rubber. Lebanon made its mark on the opening day A year on from suff ering relegation, hosts in Pool B, swiftly seeing off Turkmenistan Sri Lanka made a strong start to their cam- 2-0. Hady Habib gave Lebanon a fl ying start, paign, defeating Jordan 2-1. dropping just one game in a ruthless 6-0, 6-1 The hosts, whose fi ve-year stay in Asia/ triumph over Goergiy Pochay, before Giovani Oceania Zone Group II came to an end 12 Samaha completed the job with a 7-6 (1), 6-2 months ago courtesy of a thumping 5-0 de- victory over Yuriy Rodusskiy in the second feat to Indonesia, look intent on an immedi- rubber. Qatar’s Davis Cup team celebrate their victory over the UAE in their Davis Cup Group III Asia/Oceania tie in Colombo, Sri Lanka. (Twitter/AlKassChannel)

CRICKET CRICKET / WOMEN’S WORLD CUP Taylor helps SL’s record chase steer England downs Zimbabwe into fi nal ‘To win the ODI series, to push them in the Test match was a very good eff ort’

AFP Colombo

iroshan Dickwella and Asela Gunaratne guided Sri Lanka to a record 388 target to beat Zimbabwe by four wickets yes- Nterday in a pulsating end to their one-off Test. A crucial 121-run sixth-wicket stand between Gunaratne (80 not out) and Dickwella (81) secured Sri Lanka’s best- ever run chase. Their previous best was against South Africa in 2006, when they reached 352. Yesterday’s chase was also the highest in Asia and fi fth best in all Tests. England’s Sarah Taylor in action against South Africa during their Man-of-the-match Gunaratne an- Women’s World Cup semi-final in Bristol yesterday. (Reuters) chored the pursuit to perfection after Dickwella’s departure, putting on an un- AFP Jenny Gunn had Chloe Tryon beaten 67-run partnership with Dilruwan Bristol, United Kingdom caught and bowled. Perera (29) to take the hosts to victory. Du Preez, who top-scored The win was a boost for new Test cap- with 76, and Sune Luus kept the tain Dinesh Chandimal and eased Sri arah Taylor struck a vi- score ticking over to ensure a Lanka’s pain after a shock defeat in the tal half-century to help challenging total was posed. one-day series against the minnows. England book a place in South Africa experienced a dif- “It’s always tough when you’re bat- the Women’s World Cup fi cult start to the second innings ting in the fourth innings but I told the fiS nal as they beat South Africa by as they struggled with their lines. team that they should play their normal two wickets at Bristol yesterday. Ayabonga Khaka found it easier game and they played some outstanding Taylor, back in an England going, though, and accounted for innings, especially Dickwella and Asela,” shirt for this tournament after a both openers, as Du Preez caught Chandimal said. year out of the game, hit 54 off 76 Lauren Winfi eld and Khaka sent “It’s always challenging as a captain balls to give England control of Tammy Beaumont’s bails fl ying. but it’s about doing the right things on the match before a mini collapse Taylor showed her intent and off the fi eld,” said Chandimal, who Sri Lanka’s Niroshan Dickwella (right) plays a shot on the final day of the Test match against Zimbabwe in Colombo yesterday. (AFP) created a nail-biting fi nish. straight away with the bat and took over after Angelo Mathews quit be- Yet England, set 219 to win, looked in supreme form before cause of the ODI loss. dearly. It was referred to the third umpire, “We knew Sri Lanka had to play well SCORECARD held their nerve to complete being run out by Van Niekerk Zimbabwe skipper Graeme Cremer who ruled him not out despite replays batting on the last day chasing 388. We ZIMBABWE 1st inns 356 all out their second highest successful four runs after reaching her half- claimed four wickets with his leg-spin to showing his toe was on the crease — a tried hard,” said Cremer. SRI LANKA 1st inns 346 all out run chase in World Cup history, century. return overall fi gures of 9-275 at Colom- case in which the batsman can be given “We have missed a few opportunities, ZIMBABWE 2nd inns 377 all out built on the third-wicket part- bo’s R. Premadasa Stadium. out. but I am very proud about the way the SRI LANKA 2nd inns (o/n 170-3) nership of 78 between Taylor and SCORECARD But Gunaratne, an all-rounder who “From what I saw, I honestly didn’t see guys played. D. Karunaratne b Williams 49 England captain Heather Knight. SOUTH AFRICA played most of the Test only as a batsman any doubt why it should be not out, but “To win the ODI series and to push U. Tharanga c Moor b Cremer 27 The result bodes well for Eng- L. Wolvaardt b Knight 66 after injuring his hamstring in the fi rst it’s just one of those things,” Cremer said them in the Test match, taking it to the K. Mendis c Williams b Cremer 66 land as they go in search of their L. Lee b Shrubsole 7 innings, tackled the Zimbabwe spinners of the decision by Indian umpire Chet- last day, was a very good eff ort from the D. Chandimal c Masakadza b Cremer 15 fi rst piece of silverware in eight T. Chetty st Taylor b Sciver 15 with ease during his 151-ball stay. tithody Shamshuddin. boys,” he added. A. Mathews c & b Cremer 25 years, having won both previous M. du Preez not out 76 Wicketkeeper-batsman Dickwella “I suppose you have technology and Sri Lanka’s veteran left-arm spinner N. Dickwella c Chakabva b Williams 81 World Cups they hosted. M. Kapp run out Shrubsole 1 rode his luck to reach 81 before being it clearly shows... it’s tough when those Rangana Herath took the man of the se- A. Gunaratne not out 80 Earlier, South Africa pair D. van Niekerk run out Sciver 27 caught behind off left-arm spinner Sean things go against you when you are trying ries award for his overall match fi gures of D. Perera not out 29 Laura Wolvaardt and Mignon du C. Tryon c & b Gunn 1 Williams while attemping an audacious to win a Test match on the last day.” 11-249. Extras (b9, lb8, w2) 19 Preez recorded half-centuries S. Luus not out 21 reverse sweep. Earlier, Cremer sent overnight bats- Zimbabwe batsman Craig Ervine’s 160 Total (6 wickets; 114.5 overs) 391 as they reached 218 for six, after Extras (w4) 4 man Kusal Mendis trudging back to the in the fi rst innings and all-rounder Raza’s Fall of wickets: 1-58 (Tharanga), 2-108 captain Dane van Niekerk elected Total (6 wkts, 50 overs) 218 STUMPING REPRIEVE pavilion for 66 after Sri Lanka resumed 127 in the second were among the notable (Karunaratne), 3-133 (Chandimal), 4-178 to bat fi rst with sunny blue skies FoW: 1-21 (Lee) 2-48 (Chetty) 3-125 When he was on 37 he survived a stump- on 170-3. performances for the tourists. (Mendis), 5-203 (Cremer), 6-324 (Dick- overhead. (Wolvaardt) 4-126 (du Preez) 5-168 ing chance off Sikandar Raza’s off -spin, Cremer struck again to have Mathews Sri Lanka host the number-one ranked wella) England did make an early (van Niekerk) 6-170 (Tryon) and was dropped by wicketkeeper Regis caught and bowled for 25. The visitors India for three Tests, fi ve one-day inter- Bowling: Raza 13-1-58-0; Williams 43.5- breakthrough when Anya Shrub- Bowling: Brunt 10-1-40-0 (1w); Chakabva on 63. scented victory but it was not to be for the nationals and a single Twenty20 starting 2-146-2 (w2); Cremer 48-6-150-4; Waller sole bowled Lizelle Lee for 7, hav- Shrubsole 10-1-33-1; Sciver 4-0- The stumping reprieve cost Zimbabwe 10th-ranked side. this month. 4-0-10-0; C. Mpofu 6-3-10-0 ing had an lbw decision against 25-1 (1w); Marsh 9-0-37-0; Hartley the powerful opener reversed on 9-0-40-0; Gunn 6-0-35-1; Knight review the previous over. 2-0-8-1 (1 w) But teenager Wolvaardt took charge and laid the foundations ENGLAND Temporary amnesty paves way for return of top West Indians for South Africa’s innings, scor- L. Winfield c du Preez b Khaka 20 ing her fourth half-century of T. Beaumont b Khaka 15 Reuters the international sides if they feature in regularly in T20 leagues across the “We recognise that it is highly unlikely the tournament, which came off S. Taylor run out van Niekerk 54 Mumbai the same format in domestic competi- world, returning to the West Indies that we will now automatically qualify 81 balls and included six fours. H. Knight c Wolvaardt b Luus 30 tions. This policy has lead to many high- 50-overs side. for the 2019 World Cup,” CWI Chief Taylor produced a spectacular N. Sciver b Luus 3 profile players being absent from the West Indies have had little success Executive Johnny Grave said in a state- piece of wicketkeeping to remove F. Wilson c Chetty b Kapp 30 he West Indies board has reached ODI side as they skipped the domestic outside the shortest format and their ment. “So whilst the qualifying tourna- Trisha Chetty, stumping her off K. Brunt b Daniels 12 an agreement with the players’ 50-over tournament in order to take weakened 50-overs side missed out on ment has yet to be confirmed by ICC, a legside wide from Nat Sciver J. Gunn not out 27 Tunion for a “temporary amnesty”, part in lucrative overseas Twenty20 qualification for the recent Champions we may only have eight ODIs against before Wolvaardt consolidated L. Marsh b Ismail 1 paving the way for Chris Gayle, Sunil leagues. Trophy, played among the top eight England and New Zealand in the next six with Du Preez to the tune of 77 A. Shrubsole not out 4 Narine and its other leading cricketers CWI said in a statement the agreement teams in world cricket. months to prepare. for the third wicket. Extras (b5, w17, nb3) 25 to return to the national one-day inter- formed “part of a wider strategy to be They are ranked ninth in ODIs and could “It is crucial that we can have our best Wolvaardt eventually fell to Total (8 wickets, 49.4 overs) 221 national side. more inclusive and to improve player also miss out on automatic qualification performing Windies players available for Knight, bowled off the England FoW: 1-42 (Winfield) 2-61 (Beau- Players have been embroiled in contrac- relations aimed at re-engaging all play- for the 2019 World Cup in England and selection in these important games.” skipper’s second delivery of the mont) 3-139 (Taylor) 4-142 (Knight) tual disputes with Cricket West Indies ers within our system so that they can Wales. Gayle recently played for West Indies in match, prior to new bat Mari- 5-145 (Sciver) 6-173 (Brunt) 7-213 (CWI) for several years, with the team perform at their best for the Windies The top eight sides in the rankings at the a one-off Twenty20 against India. It was zanne Kapp being run out by (Wilson) 8-217 (Marsh) even abandoning a tour of India midway teams.” Sept. 30 cutoff , including hosts England, his first match for the Caribbean side Shrubsole three balls later in the Bowling: Ismail 9.4-1-49-1 (2nb); through their 2014 series over a pay- The agreement could see players like earn automatic berths, with the rest re- since their World T20 final triumph over same over. Kapp 10-1-43-1 (4w); Khaka 10-2- ment structure row. Gayle, Narine, Dwayne Bravo, Kieron quired to go through a qualification tour- England in April 2016. His last one-day Van Niekerk departed in simi- 28-2 (1w); Daniels 10-0-47-1 (2w); CWI currently only selects players for Pollard and Samuel Badree, who feature nament to make up the 10-team event. international was at the 2015 World Cup. lar fashion following quick work van Niekerk 5-0-25-0 (1nb, 1w); by Sciver in the fi eld, and then Luus 5-0-24-2 (2w)