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Friday, March 30, 2018 Rajab 13, 1438 AH Australia coach GULF TIMES Lehmann to quit after South Africa series SPORT Page 2 Flood of tears as Smith Smith breaks down during emotional press conference aft er taking full responsibility for apologises the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa

AFP admit his actions had been “a stain on Sydney the game”. “Mistakes have been made which have damaged cricket,” he told his istraught former Australian 1.6mn Instagram followers as he made cricket his way back to Sydney. accepted full responsibility “I apologise for my part and take re- Dyesterday for a ball-tamper- sponsibility for it. ing scandal that has shaken the sport, “It’s a stain on the game we all love breaking down in tears while denying it and I have loved since I was a boy,” he had ever happened before. added. have banned In handing out their tough punish- Smith and from all in- ment, cricket chiefs bowed to uproar at ternational and domestic cricket for a home where sportsmen and women are year while opening batsman Cameron held in high esteem and expected to act Bancroft was exiled for nine months in the best interests of the game. over attempted cheating during the Authorities also needed to act de- third Test in South Africa cisively to counter mounting concern Smith, a golden boy compared to from sponsors over reputational dam- Donald Bradman for his ex- age. ploits, was a broken man at an emo- CA’s response wasn’t enough to save tional press conference on his arrival an estimated Aus$20mn (US$15mn) back in Sydney from . with naming rights spon- “I take full responsibility, I made a sor Magellan which tore up its three- serious error of judgement and I un- year contract yesterday after barely derstand the consequences. It was a seven months. failure of leadership,” he said, choking The fi nancial cost for the players is back tears as he was comforted by his also growing with sporting goods com- father Peter. pany ASICS ending its relationship with Warner and Bancroft. Electronics Cricket Australia have banned giant LG axed Warner on Wednesday, Smith and David Warner from while Weet-Bix and Commonwealth all international and domestic Bank dumped Smith. cricket for a year while Other team sponsors, including opening batsman Cameron Qantas, have voiced their deep disap- Bancroft was exiled for nine pointment over the scandal but so far months over attempted cheating have taken no action. during the third Test in S. Africa An emotional Bancroft said he was ashamed of himself when he arrived “I know I will regret this for the back in . rest of my life. I am absolutely gutted. “All I can do in the short term is ask Cricket is my life and hope it can be for forgiveness,” he said, while deny- again. I’m sorry. I’m absolutely devas- Steve Smith is comforted by his father Peter as he weeps at a press conference at the airport in Sydney after returning from South Africa yesterday. ing he had ever tampered with a ball tated.” before, in comments echoed by Smith. Smith’s fall from grace has been dra- media with concerns over his men- Former great , no “What the public wants to see is forgive you.” “I have made a big mistake for al- matic, and fast. tal state in the current rabid climate stranger himself to controversy, of- change. They want to see you be a bet- Warner, a divisive fi gure who was lowing this to happen,” said Smith. He was jeered as he made his way and coach calling fered the trio an olive branch despite ter person,” he wrote in a column for charged with developing the plot and “This is the fi rst time I have seen this through Johannesburg airport on for all three men to be “given a second days of a harsh and judgemental Aus- the Sydney Daily Telegraph. “They’ll instructing Bancroft to carry it out, happen and it will never be happening Wednesday surrounded by police and chance”. tralian public baying for blood. support you if they see that, and they’ll also broke his silence to say sorry and again.”

RALLYING Fastest time confi rms second place for Adel

By Sports Reporter is good with the situation we had. We Abu Dhabi could not bring our car. I tried my best to do the race and collect maximum points. To collect 36 points is very im- atar’s Adel Abdulla con- portant. fi rmed second position in “Nasser, my co-driver, managed the T2 standings at the Abu everything in the right way. We were QDhabi Desert Challenge with confi dent together in the car. The the fastest time in the fi nal 218.57km weather conditions were very hot. To- selective section from Hameem to the day, the air temperature was 37°C. It is south of Abu Dhabi yesterday morning. too much in the dunes. Driving a rented Nissan Safari Y61 “I also say thank you to my team in insipid heat, the Qatari and naviga- here on their good job and to my spon- tor Nasser al-Kuwari carded a stage- sors, the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle winning time of 3hrs 23min 22sec and Federation (QMMF) and Ooredoo Qa- managed to shave 11min 38sec off rival tar and Nissan Qatar.” The next stop in Ahmed Shegawi’s eventual winning the FIA World Cup calendar will be the margin of 45min 53.9sec. Qatar Cross-Country Rally in three The performance also earned Adel weeks’ time. 12th in the overall standings – a par- ticularly impressive result with a near- 2018 Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge – standard car on one of the toughest final T2 positions after SS5: cross-country events in the world. 1. Ahmed al-Shegawi (SAU)/Laurent Lich- Adel said: “We pushed from the tleuchter (FRA) Toyota Land Cruiser 23hrs start today and decided to take a risk. 17min 25.7sec Suddenly we saw Shegawi. I think he 2. Adel Abdulla (QAT)/Nasser al-Kuwari had a fl at tyre or something. We pass (QAT) Nissan Patrol 24hrs 03min 19.6sec him and I pushed very hard to the end 3. Yuliya Khegay-Migunova (RUS)/Aldis of the stage. I was pushing the maxi- Vilcans (LVA) Toyota LC 200 53hrs 21min mum of the car. I didn’t even slow 10.5sec down when the engine temperature went a bit higher. Some sections today FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rallies were open and fast and, maybe, that – T2 standings after round 3 (unoff icial): helped to cool the car down. 1. Ahmed al-Shegawi (SAU) 75pts “The risk paid off because we won 2. Adel Abdulla (QAT) 69pts the stage today by over 11 minutes. 3. Yuliya Khegay-Migunova (RUS) 42pts This is fantastic for us. Second place 4. Alexey Titov (RUS) 25pts Adel Abdulla (R) and co-driver Nasser al-Kuwari celebrate on the podium in Abu Dhabi yesterday. Gulf Times 2 Friday, March 30, 2018 CRICKET

SPOTLIGHT Australia coach Lehmann to quit aft er South Africa series ‘I really felt for Steve and, as you see, I’m crying in front of the media. All the players are really hurting’

AFP Lehmann, who was due to leave the of the famed Baggy Green . After Johannesburg job after the in Eng- being appointed, Lehmann’s response land, is going despite being cleared of when asked to list his top three priori- any role in the ball-tampering scandal ties was telling. tearful Darren Lehmann said that has rocked the sport. His decision “Probably win, win, win, for a start,” yesterday he would quit as follows 12-month bans given to captain he told reporters. Cricket Australia had coach of the scandal-tainted Smith and vice-captain David Warner other ideas. “Discipline, consistency of Australia cricket team after for the roles they played in a plot to behaviour and accountability for per- theA fourth and fi nal Test of the ongoing cheat in Cape Town last Saturday dur- formance are all key ingredients that series in South Africa. ing the third Test. Opening batsman need to improve,” Sutherland said at “This will be my last Test as head Bancroft was banned for nine months the time. coach of the Australian cricket team,” for his part in the aff air. If part of Lehmann’s brief was to im- Lehmann told a press conference on the “As a team we know we’ve let so prove the Australian team’s behaviour, eve of the match. many people down and for that we’re there is little doubt he has failed. Sen- “Saying goodbye to the players was truly sorry,” added the 48-year-old ior Australian cricket commentator Jim the toughest thing I have ever had to Lehmann. “The players involved have Maxwell said the coach had to accept do. After seeing events in the media been handed down very serious sen- some blame for an “arrogant” team cul- today with Steve Smith and Cameron tences and they know they must face ture where certain players felt cheating Bancroft, the feeling is that Austral- the consequences. They have made a was preferable to losing honourably. ian cricket needs to move forward and grave mistake but they are not bad peo- “He’s done a very good job with the this is the right thing to do. I really felt ple.” side but has a very narrow view of the for Steve and, as you see, I’m crying in It’s not just the players who have suf- way players should conduct them- front of the media. All the players are fered, though. “My family and I have selves,” Maxwell said. really hurting.” copped a lot of abuse over the last week Lehmann became national coach af- Speaking in Johannesburg soon af- and it’s taken its toll,” said Lehmann. “I ter Australia sacked the fi rst foreigner ter Lehmann’s announcement, Cricket am ultimately responsible for the cul- to hold the post, South African Mickey Australia (CA) chief executive James ture of the team and I’ve been thinking Arthur, on the eve of an Ashes series. A Sutherland said he wanted to pay trib- about my position for a while. Despite respected former batsman who played ute to the coach. “He provided fantas- telling media yesterday that I’m not re- 27 Tests and 117 one-day internationals tic service and has been part of a very signing, after viewing Steve and Cam- for Australia, Lehmann was seen as an successful team that has achieved a lot eron’s hurting, it is only fair that I make antidote to disciplinarian Arthur. Aus- during his time. I have seen fi rst hand this decision.” tralia lost Lehmann’s fi rst Ashes series the pride in which he has gone about his Lehmann was hailed as a saviour in charge but later in 2013, after he had work and the love he has for the job and when he took over in 2013, but critics stamped his mark on the team, they his incredible work ethic. He genuinely now accuse him of overseeing a toxic crushed England 5-0. He won 30 Tests Australia cricket coach Darren Lehmann is in tears as he announces his resignation after the forthcoming Test match against loves and respects his players.” culture that has dented the reputation as coach, lost 19 and drew eight. South Africa, at a press conference in Johannesburg yesterday. (AFP)

BOTTOMLINE FOCUS Who is Bancroft asks saying what Warner apologises for ‘my “DEVASTATING!” — Smith’s predecessor Michael Clarke’s reaction for forgiveness to the captain’s tearful press appearance in Sydney AFP part’ in tampering scandal Perth, Australia “Just seen @stevesmith49’s Reuters press conference. As a par- Sydney ent, I’m gutted for him & his n emotional Cameron family! Shout me down if Bancroft asked for for- you want, but I’m speaking giveness yesterday over ormer Australia vice captain Dav- as a parent! It will get better his part in a ball-tam- id Warner broke his silence over mate!” peringA scandal, saying he was the ball-tampering saga yester- — Ex-England batsman ashamed of himself, but refused day with a post on social media in Kevin Pietersen off ers a to comment on the role David whichF he apologised and accepted respon- consoling word Warner played. Bancroft was sibility for his “part” in the scandal. banned for nine months after us- The opening batsman was suspended “Just watched Smith presser. ing sandpaper to scratch the sur- from international and state cricket for 12 Hope everybody has had face of the ball during the third experience and whirlwind few months on Wednesday and banned from their pound of flesh now.” Test against South Africa in Cape days it’s been obvious to see how ever holding a leadership position in the — Former England batsman Town in an incident that sent much the game means to Aus- test team again for his role in the cheat- Mark Butcher echoing the shockwaves through the sport tralia and the public, and we are ing in Cape Town. “I am currently on my thoughts of many and that he said he would regret representations of that. It’s been way back to Sydney,” Warner posted in a “for the rest of his life”. a big wake up call for what that message to “cricket fans in Australia and “’Good people make He then tried to hide the evi- means.” all over the world” on Instagram. “Mis- mistakes’... I honestly think dence down his trousers, only Bancroft said he did want to takes have been made which have damaged Steve Smith & Cam Bancroft to be caught on camera. The comment on other players, and cricket. I apologise for my part and take re- are decent guys who had a 25-year-old opening batsman, denied he had ever tampered sponsibility for it. I understand the distress moment of madness... they who has played just eight Tests, with a ball before. “I’m not here this has caused the sport and its fans. It’s deserve a 2nd chance and will also be required to undertake to comment about other players. a stain on the game we all love and I have hopefully get the right sup- 100 hours of voluntary service in I want to show how sorry I am, loved since I was a boy.” port around them now... community cricket. at the end of the day they are my Warner was identifi ed as the instiga- David Warner, his wife Candice and their daughters arrive in Sydney yesterday. (AFP) Takes a lot guts to do what “It is something I will regret actions and I am accountable,” tor of the tampering in the fi ndings of the they did today.” for the rest of my life. All I can he said. “I have never ever been Cricket Australia investigation, instruct- aware of the plan. As well as the ignominy they would no longer work with him. — Former England captain do in the short term is ask for involved in tampering with a ball ing junior batsman how of being identifi ed as the main villain of Warner is expected to land in his home city shows forgiveness,” Bancroft, who was (before now)... it compromises to scuff up one half of the ball with sand- the piece in the Cricket Australia report, in the late evening local time on a separate support for Smith and Ban- close to tears, said in Perth. my values and what I stand for as paper during the third Test against South Warner has paid a heavy fi nancial penalty fl ight from Smith but confi rmed that he croft but not Warner “I feel like I’ve let everyone a player and a person.” Africa. for his misjudgement. would not be taking the opportunity to ad- down in Australia and I’m not He declined to say whether Bancroft was banned for nine months A subsequent ban from the Indian Pre- dress media. “I need to take a deep breath “At least Steve Smith has the proud of that, it will take time he felt his ban was too harsh or for his part, while captain Steve Smith also mier League (IPL) cost him $1.85mn this and spend time with my family, friends and courage to admit like a man for that to heal and earn the re- whether he planned to appeal, received a one-year ban, even though he season, while sports manufacturer ASICS trusted advisers,” he added. “You will hear but absolutely gutted to see spect back. Through this whole only that he respected the process. was described in the report of only being and technology giant LG have both said from me in a few days.” Steve Smith breaking down @ the press conference & also the way people treating OPINION CHEAT STORM him @ Airport & in Australia it’s sad leave that poor chap alone now.” — Ex-Pakistan bowler Cricket Australia , the fastest Former coach Arthur slams in the world, hails Smith’s dropped by top courage “The spirit of the game is of ‘boorish’ Australia cricketers utmost importance, there’s sponsor Magellan no denying that. They made AFP but was not able to. The 49-year-old added a mistake and they accepted Sydney that he was not blameless and there were AFP Australia’s domestic Tests in it. It would be unfair of me decisions he had made during his time that Sydney a deal estimated at the time to to sit here and question the he would change. be worth Aus$20mn. It began board’s decision, but they ormer coach yes- Arthur’s tenure was marked by the so- with the recent Ashes series are great players and I don’t terday slammed Australia’s play- called “homeworkgate”, when four players ne of Cricket Aus- against England. This, it said, think this should define ers as “boorish and arrogant” and were banned for one Test for failing to com- tralia’s biggest spon- was based on “shared values them.” accused them and governing body plete a written task set during a disastrous sors, fund manager and reputations of integrity, — Indian vice-captain Rohit CricketF Australia of being unwilling to im- tour of India in 2013. Arthur said when he Magellan, yesterday leadership, dedication and an Sharma hopes the trio can prove the culture within the game. was in charge, he found the cricketers “were toreO up its contract with the customer-fi rst culture”. rebound into cricket The South African, the fi rst foreigner to willingness or desire to improve the cul- a law unto themselves” and the homework governing body over the ball- Smith, previously the golden hold the post, was sacked on the eve of the ture within their organisation from season aff air was a “microcosm of a problem that tampering scandal that has boy of Australian cricket, was “And boy do I hope that a lot Ashes series in 2013 and replaced by cur- to season,” he wrote on www.playersvoice. remains with the Australian team to this rocked the game. At the same an ambassador for breakfast of us are completely wrong rent coach Darren Lehmann, who resigned com.au. day: the sense of entitlement among the time sporting goods company cereal brand Weet-Bix, but it in thinking these 3 weren’t yesterday. Now coaching Pakistan, he said “I have been bitterly disappointed watch- players”. He welcomed the sanctions against ASICS announced it was end- said it no longer wanted to be the only ones to know, cos it’ll the ball-tampering scandal in South Af- ing the Australian cricket team over the last Smith, Warner and Cameron Bancroft, who ing its relationship with David associated with him. Elec- be A WHOLE LOT WORSE for rica, which saw captain Steve Smith and few years. The behaviour has been boor- was banned for nine months, saying Cricket Warner and Cameron Ban- tronics giant LG on dropped those who knew, if they did...!” vice-captain David Warner banned from ish and arrogant. The way they’ve gone Australia “needed to make a stand”. croft, two of the players at the Warner as a brand ambassador — Pietersen rounds off , all international and domestic cricket for about their business hasn’t been good, and “Australian cricket has been in an ivory heart of the cheating incident, and ASICS ended its relation- with question marks over 12 months, was the culmination of years it hasn’t been good for a while,” he added tower for too long. They had to take decisive while breakfast cereal Weet- ship with him and Bancroft. how no Australians bowlers of inaction. “Despite generational change, to the website, where sportspeople can air action. If they didn’t, things would inevita- Bix dumped Steve Smith. Other team sponsors, in- seemingly knew of a plan independent reviews and too many behav- their views. Arthur, who was the national bly return to the way they had been and an- Magellan inked a three-year cluding Qantas and Common- designed to help them swing ioural spot fi res to list, Cricket Australia and coach from 2011-2013, said he had tried to other major incident would’ve been inevita- partnership in August 2017 wealth Bank have so far have the ball when bowling the national team had demonstrated no real change the culture within Australian cricket ble,” he added. as naming rights sponsor for taken no action. Gulf Times Friday, March 30, 2018 3 CRICKET

FOURTH TEST FOCUS Williamson named South Africa aim to Sunrisers captain aft er Warner exit AFP like I say, he’s not a bad guy. He’s New Delhi made a mistake and certainly ad- mitted that and they are disap- fi nish off Aussies pointed with that action.” ndian Premier League side Smith has been suspended Sunrisers Hyderabad yes- from the captaincy for at least Tourists seek to avoid the first series loss in South Africa since 1969/70 terday named New Zealand’s two years, while Warner has Kane Williamson as captain been told he will never lead an Iafter scandal-tainted Australian Australia side again. Williamson AFP Johannesburg David Warner withdrew. described the punishment as “I have accepted the role to “strong”, but defended Warner stand in as captain for this sea- as a person. “He’s not a bad per- outh Africa will aim to take ad- son. It’s an exciting opportunity son by any means. They (Warner vantage of a scandal-hit Austral- with a talented group of players,” and Smith) have made a mistake, ian team in the fourth and fi nal the 27-year-old Kiwi skipper they have certainly admitted that Test starting at the Wanderers said in a statement released by and they are disappointed with StadiumS today. But coach Ottis Gibson the club on Twitter. that action so they will have to has warned that Australia will provide Williamson has a $460,000 take that punishment, strong strong opposition, even without the dis- deal with the Sunrisers for this punishment that it is,” said Wil- graced trio of Steve Smith, David Warner season, which starts April 7. liamson. “But it’s a shame that and Cameron Bancroft. Warner, who was banned for a two fantastic world class players “We hope they’re very shattered,” Gib- year on Wednesday along with made a mistake.” son said of the turmoil around the oppo- Australian captain Steve Smith, Lehmann admits the culture sition camp. “But they’re still a good team had a $1.9mn contract. in the Australian side needs to with very good players. I’m still a huge fan Warner and Smith, who has change and held up New Zealand of their attack.” been barred from playing for Ra- as an example of how to play and The Australian bowling unit remains jastan Royals in the IPL, were at respect the opposition. Under intact but there will be three enforced the centre of a ball-tampering former captain Brendon McCul- changes in the batting line-up as the scandal during Australia’s series lum and coach Mike Hesson New tourists seek to avoid the fi rst series in South Africa. The pair were Zealand adopted a “hard but loss by Australia in South Africa since among the highest-paid foreign fair” approach in the fair-play Ali Bacher led the team then known as stars in the IPL. Hyderabad, who traditions of the game. the Springboks to a 4-0 clean sweep in won the 2016 IPL, will host Ra- “We take pride in our per- 1969/70. jasthan in their opening match formance, in the way we go about South Africa lead the current series 2-1 on April 9. things and we want to continue and captain said after his to do that,” said Williamson, who team won the third Test in Cape Town WILLIAMSON DEFENDS is regarded in cricket circles as by 322 runs that he was determined to WARNER AS ‘NOT A BAD GUY’ a gentleman who adheres to the maintain the pressure on his opponents. Meanwhile, Williamson defend- traditions of the game. The loss of Smith and Warner robs Aus- ed Warner, describing the Aus- “He (McCullum) was huge in tralia of their two leading batsmen — but tralian at the heart of the ball- setting an environment where neither made a major impact in the fi rst tampering scandal as “not a bad we wanted to play the game in a three matches. Their replacements, Matt guy”. With New Zealand’s build- certain way and it was refl ected Renshaw, and up to the second Test against in the way we went about our will only have one practice opportunity England, starting in Christch- business in terms of on fi eld as before the Test, but all three arrive with urch today, overshadowed by well but the work went into the good recent form in Australia’s Sheffi eld international reaction to the off fi eld stuff and I suppose that’s Shield competition. South African cricketer AB de Villiers poses with young fans after a practice session in Johannesburg yesterday. (AFP) cheating aff air in South Africa, really important. While Renshaw and Burns are set to Williamson said he has been in “On the park it’s about how we open the batting in place of Warner and when he failed in both innings. Burns feat which sealed a series loss. Renshaw in the Sheffi eld Shield. In recent seasons touch with Warner. control ourselves, how we want Bancroft, Smith’s place is expected to be made a promising start to his Test career and Handscomb both made their debuts South Africa have opted for all-pace “It’s a shame. The act is not to play our cricket and I think if taken by , the reserve but it came to an abrupt halt after he was in the next Test, when Australia gained a bowling attacks for Tests at the Wan- condoned in any team,” William- you look after that and look after batsman on tour, with Maxwell likely only out for one and nought in his only previ- consolation win in Adelaide. derers. If they do include left-arm spin- son said after Warner was named your own yard then that com- to have a back-up role. ous appearance against South Africa in The left-handed Renshaw lost form ner Keshav Maharaj, who made crucial as the instigator of the ball tam- petitive nature is created be- Handscomb’s only match practice Hobart in 2016/17. and was replaced by Bancroft for the breakthroughs in Cape Town, they may pering. “It will blow over in time, tween two teams but there’s not since the tour started was in the warm-up He was one of fi ve players jettisoned Ashes series against England earlier this opt for uncapped all-rounder Wiaan but it’s grown and grown and, personal aspects.” game against South Africa A last month after Australia crashed to an innings de- season. But he has been a prolifi c scorer Mulder as a seam bowling back-up.

Cricket chiefs to review punishment for ball-tampering

London: The International Cricket since levied by Cricket Australia. “We’ve Richardson said the exercise, likely to be blighted by bad behaviour in recent Council will review its punishment for come to realise that the world — not only informed by respected former players weeks including ugly incidents of sledg- ball-tampering in light of the Australia Australia — regards ball-tampering in a such as Australia’s , Indian ing, dissent against umpires’ decisions cheating scandal, and warned the game very serious light. It goes to the spirit of Anil Kumble, of South and now the ball-tampering episode. is in danger unless decisive action is the game,” said chief executive David Africa and West Indies’ Courtney Walsh, “This has been perhaps one of the taken. Cricket Australia has banned cap- Richardson. would be an opportunity to “draw a line worst periods in recent memory for tain Steve Smith and vice-captain David “I must admit this has been an eye- in the sand” and address fans’ concerns. consistently poor player behaviour and Warner from international and domestic opener for me personally. We need to “The reaction all around the world the global outcry in relation to the ball cricket for a year while opening batsman look at the penalty imposed, specific shows us that if we neglect the way tampering is a clear message to cricket: Cameron Bancroft was exiled for nine to ball-tampering. Around the world, the game is played, cricket is itself in enough is enough,” he wrote in a blog months over the incident during the ball-tampering is considered cheating... I danger,” he said. “We are going to ignore post on the ICC website. third Test in South Africa. think we need to look at it again, and this (that) at our peril... we don’t want to “The spirit of cricket is precious to Under its current code of conduct, is what has prompted this review.” leave this lingering, and hope it will all our sport and so intrinsically linked with the ICC was unable to impose more than The ICC review will look into player go away.” good behaviour,” he added. “The turn of a full-match fine and a one-Test ban on behaviour, the spirit in which the game Richardson, a former South African phrase ‘that’s just not cricket’ is not an Smith, unlike the more stringent penalty is played and the code of conduct. wicketkeeper, said cricket had been accident. We must protect that spirit.” New Zealand’s captain Kane Williamson. (Reuters)

ROUND-UP SECOND TEST Smith ban ‘harsh’, says South England drop Moeen and Woakes Africa captain Du Plessis Reuters not saying Australia don’t bring Christchurch that to the table when you play outh Africa captain on Smith, Warner and Bancroft ACA QUESTIONS SEVERITY against them, but it is a diff erent Faf du Plessis said as harsh, he understood the OF BALL-TAMPERING BANS atmosphere in my experience.” yesterday that he felt context of the high values The Australian Cricketer’s As- ngland have axed Moeen New Zealand’s fi rst Test vic- the 12-month ban on Australians expected from sociation (ACA) has questioned Ali and tory and preparations for the disgracedS Australia skipper their cricket team. Du Plessis “a number of glaring and clear for the second and fi nal second Test have been overshad- Steve Smith was “harsh”. He welcomed the announce- anomalies” in the process Test against New Zealand owed in the news media by satu- told a media conference in ment by International Cricket leading to Steve Smith, David startingE today at Christchurch. ration coverage of the Australian Johannesburg that he was “very Council chief executive Dave Warner and Cameron Bancroft All-rounder Moeen scored 28 ball-tampering scandal in South sorry” for Smith and had texted Richardson that there would being handed lengthy bans for runs in two innings in the fi rst Africa. him a message of support. be a review of the ICC code of their roles in a ball-tampering Test and failed to take a as Cricket Australia have banned Smith and vice-captain conduct and penalties. scandal in third Test against New Zealand marched to an in- David Warner and captain Steve David Warner were banned “I think it’s overdue. All we South Africa. nings and 49-run victory. Smith from all international and for 12 months and Cameroon ask for is consistency. There The case caused public The 30-year-old also strug- domestic cricket for 12 months, Bancroft for nine months for are a lot of grey areas,” said Du outrage in Australia but the gled in England’s 4-0 Ashes loss and Cameron Bancroft for nine attempted Plessis, who was only made sentences have been criticised in Australia late last year, scoring months. Smith has been banned during the third Test in Cape South Africa captain after be- in some quarters as being dis- 179 runs at 19.88 and claiming from the captaincy for at least Town last Saturday. Du Plessis, ing caught ball-tampering. proportionately harsh, includ- just fi ve at an average of two years, while Warner has been 33, was speaking on the eve of ing by former Australian spin 115. Somerset spinner told he will never lead an Aus- the fourth and fi nal Test at the SOMERSET DITCH bowler Shane Warne. is expected to make his Test de- tralia side again. Wanderers of a drama-packed BANCROFT AS The ACA, which represents but at . Root described the penalties as series in which South Africa OVERSEAS PLAYER professional fi rst-class cricket- Batsman James Vince and fast making a statement to the cricket hold a 2-1 lead. Somerset said that Australian ers, called for a proposed re- bowler have also England’s captain (left) talks with all-rounder world. “The reaction that has “It’s been a crazy week. I batsman Cameron Bancroft view into Australia’s cricketing been included in the 12-man during nets session in Christchurch yesterday. (Reuters) been going on has been all to do have compassion for what he’s would not be joining the culture to be fully independent squad but Lancashire captain with how people want to watch going through. I think he’s one English county side for the new and extend to the CA’s response misses out. trated in terms of the results and ferent atmosphere between the cricket so I think it’s been quite of the good guys and he’s just season as the fallout from the to the scandal. The fi tness of re- how that side of things has gone. two sides. a strong message for everyone,” been caught in a bad place,” cheating scandal gathers pace. Listing the anomalies, the mains an issue. The all-rounder We’ve played really good cricket While series in Aus- Root said, adding he was satis- said Du Plessis, who has twice Bancroft was banned for nine ACA pointed out that the bans did not bowl in the fi rst Test due for three days, which doesn’t win tralia was fraught with acrimony, fi ed with how England played the been found guilty of ball tam- months by Australia after being imposed by CA were consider- to a back problem and could play you Test matches.” the relationship between Eng- game. pering himself, but was only caught on camera using sand- ably lengthier than any that the again as a specialist batsman England have lost 10 of their land and New Zealand was cor- “We conduct ourselves pretty fi ned and never banned. paper to scratch the ball during world governing body (ICC) ahead of Vince. “There’s obvi- last 12 overseas tests. dial throughout the fi rst Test de- well on the fi eld. I think you can “I did send him a text. From the third Test against South had handed down in the past ously a couple of choices we have spite New Zealand’s domination. see that throughout this series. a really deep place in my heart Africa in Cape Town. Somerset for similar off ences. but it’s exciting there are people ROOT HAILS NEW ZEALAND “In terms of atmosphere on The relationships between Eng- I feel for the guy. I don’t want director of cricket Andy Hurry It also questioned why CA’s pushing and making strong cases CRICKET CULTURE the fi eld there might not be as land and New Zealand have been to see guys going through that said Bancroft would not be the public statements had not for themselves,” England captain Meanwhile, New Zealand’s much said verbally when you play pretty good for a number of years stuff . It’s going to be incredibly club’s overseas player for the referenced contextual factors Joe Root said. cricket ethos drew praise yester- against New Zealand.” he said. and the same with the majority hard for him over the next days 2018 season. Hurry said he had “including the environment in “That attention to detail and day from Root as he weighed up “But you still get a sense that of countries that we play against. so I sent him a message of sup- spoken a number of times with South Africa during the series” the way we approach training is, the diff erence between playing they’re playing good hard crick- “We want to play good hard port, saying he’ll get through Bancroft since the weekend and and criticised the rush to put I think, really important leading the Blacks Caps and Australia et. They go about things very cricket which is obviously within this and he must be strong.” the player had “shared his deep the players before the media into this game so hopefully we over the past four months. much in their own way but you the guidelines of the game and Du Plessis said that although regret and apologised to every- without considered and coher- can be ready for what’s going to On the eve of the last match of know you’re up against a side it’s important that we continue he regarded the bans imposed one associated to the club”. ent advice. be a big fi ve days. I’m very frus- an arduous tour, Root cited a dif- that are desperate to win. I’m to do that.” Gulf Times 4 Friday, March 30, 2018 SPORT

GOLF FOCUS ‘My time’ to win Wie healthy, Feng hitting Masters, Rose says form in time

Reuters nal hole. Los Angeles Good health has also helped her confi dence, after a few years of dealing with multiple injuries, ichelle Wie is something she has discussed healthy and Shan- with Tiger Woods. at Houston tune-up shan Feng is run- “Every time we see each other ning into form going we list off all the things. How’s 'I guess it’s getting comfortable with the feeling of knowing that I’m going in there Minto the fi rst women’s major of your ankle, how’s your back, the year, the ANA Inspiration in how’s your everything? And (to the Masters) as one of the favourites and it’s my time really to do it' California. then it’s a 20-minute conversa- Storylines abound at Mission tion, and then we can move on Hills in Rancho Mirage, includ- from there,” Wie said. ing the continuing rise of the “I think I have osteoarthritis Korean juggernaut and a possi- in a couple spots in my wrist. ble overdue major challenge by So my doctors and I, we’ve been super-talented Jessica Korda. taking these collagen injections Straight-hitting Feng as- which is what helps to build the sumed the world number one cartilage. ranking in November, becoming “It just sucks that it’s on both the fi rst player from China to oc- wrists, so I have to go in and out cupy top spot. of the doctor’s offi ce quite often. Her record at Mission Hills “When your back is hurting or is spotty — only two top-10s in neck is hurting, you can’t really eight starts — but her chances do much. It defi nitely helps to are looking up this year, with a not have your hands hurt when healthy growth of rough likely to you putt.” put a premium on accuracy. Another to watch this week “I don’t even know why I’ve is defending champion Ryu So- never really played super well yeon, who heads a formidable here,” Feng told reporters on South Korean challenge that in- the eve of the tournament on cludes fi ve of the world’s 10 top- Wednesday. ranked players. “Hopefully this year I can Korda is also a realistic con- make my record become a little tender after her recent victory in bit better. Thailand, and she is on a mission “I think I’m still working my to correct a spotty major record. way out there to try to get my A- “This year I’ve honestly been game back. I think my putting is feeding off of what I was doing improving a little bit. So hope- last year,” said Korda, who had fully this week everything will jaw surgery in December to al- be there.” leviate excruciating headaches. Former child prodigy Wie, The fi ve-times LPGA winner meanwhile, is brimming with and her younger sister Nelly are confi dence after her unlikely two of the brightest talents on victory in Singapore on March tour, daughters of the 1998 Aus- 4, when she holed her winning tralian Open tennis champion putt from off the green at the fi - Petr.

SPOTLIGHT IOC chief Bach

Reuters he told reporters in Texas on Wednesday. play instead in Houston. Mickelson, meanwhile, has long Houston “I guess it’s getting comfortable with “I’ve had a very simple train of played the week before every major, and in North Korea, to the feeling of knowing that I’m going in thought the last few months,” he said. has no doubt that for him at least it is the there (to the Masters) as one of the fa- “I’m not coming in here trying to fi nd best way to prepare. year after losing a playoff to vourites and it’s my time really to do it. my game or look for anything new.” “It’s important for me because head- stay until tomorrow Sergio Garcia at the Masters, “Last year I enjoyed the (Houston) While Rose is fi ring on all cylinders, ing into a major I want to be sharp men- Justin Rose declared himself tournament and it obviously turned into three-times major winner Spieth is try- tally,” he said. ready to fi nally to claim the a good run into Augusta for me. ing to diagnose his faults after a couple “I don’t want to have a 10-11 day lag in Acoveted green jacket as he prepared for a “This is not about next week, but of ordinary performances. between events and playing competitive fi nal tune-up at the Houston Open. clearly when you’re playing so close to a He thinks he needs at least one hot golf in conditions as close to Augusta as The Englishman is one of several big major that is always in the back of your round in Houston to provide a boost possible is a very helpful thing in getting guns using this week’s PGA Tour tourna- mind.” heading to Augusta. ready.” ment to prepare for Augusta, joining the Rose has been one of the hottest play- “I want to shoot a low round, some- Fowler thinks likewise. likes of Jordan Spieth, Phil Mickelson er in the world for the last few months, thing lower than fi ve under par, where “There’s a small gap between teeing it and Rickie Fowler in the fi eld at the Golf winning three times late last year, in- I get out there, get into the fl ow of the up in competition,” he said. Club of Houston. cluding a World Golf Championships round, where I’m not living and dying on “I feel like there’s less fi rst-tee jitters Rose embraced his status as one of (WGC) event in Shanghai. shots,” Spieth said. (at the Masters). If anybody tells you the favourites for the fi rst major of the The world number fi ve has also has “I’ll know if I shot a low round in my they don’t feel fi rst-tee jitters, that’s a year, making no eff ort to downplay his contended in his two most recent starts mind whether the score is 65 or 68. I lie. chances. on the PGA Tour in Florida, and skipped need a round that feels like that 65 that “You just feel more comfortable when “Game-wise I’m where I want to be,” last week’s WGC Match Play in Austin to I can draw a lot off .” it comes to that Thursday tee time.”

BOTTOMLINE

Reuters Bach told Reuters during the Seoul Feb. 9-25 Winter Olympics that he would make the visit on the Lacklustre Spieth says he’s North’s invitation as part of an nternational Olympic agreement between the IOC and Committee (IOC) President both North and South Korea. Thomas Bach travelled to Athletes from North and South IPyongyang yesterday, the Korea marched under a unifi ed been ‘lower’ heading to Masters Olympic body said, in a visit that peninsula fl ag at the opening comes after North Korea’s par- ceremony in Pyeongchang and AFP runner-up fi nishes in 2014 and ticipation in the Pyeongchang the two Koreas have experienced Houston 2016 around his Augusta victory Winter Games helped ease inter- a signifi cant thaw in tensions in 2015 — the fi rst of his three Korean relations. since the Winter Olympics. major titles. Given his down- Bach will remain in North Bach’s exact itinerary in ordan Spieth insists he has turn in form, Spieth was asked Korea until tomorrow and will Pyongyang remains unclear but headed into prior Masters if he felt more at ease in not be- have meetings with the nation’s his visit comes amid a fl urry of in “lower” form than the ing mentioned as an Augusta fa- Olympic offi cials in a trip agreed international outreach by North current crestfallen nature vourite. last year as part of talks between Korea. ofJ his golf game. “No, it doesn’t make a diff er- the IOC, and North and South After North Korean leader The 24-year old Dallas native ence to me at all,” he said. Korea ahead of the Games. Kim Jong-un made a surprise tees it up this week on Lone Star “I don’t care either way. We “The discussions will focus visit to Beijing this week — his State home soil in the Houston believe that if we go about our on the further development of fi rst known trip outside North Open not having tasted suc- step-by-step goal and check all sport in the DPRK after the suc- Korea since taking power in cess since capturing last year’s the boxes next week, then we’ll cessful participation of athletes 2011 — his engagement with the Travelers Championship in Con- have a chance to win.” at the Olympic Winter Games international community has necticut and then collecting a Asked who he thought had the Pyeongchang 2018, and the sparked speculation that he may third Major victory at The Open Jordan Spieth most pressure on his shoulders preparation of athletes from the try to meet other leaders ahead championship at Royal Birkdale. of the US. next week, Spieth singled out National Olympic Committee of the summit with South Ko- Spieth did go close to victory Rory McIlroy — who needs only of the DPRK with the objective rean President Moon Jae-in and in the opening two events of last a Masters title to complete his of qualifying for and participat- United States President Donald year’s FedEx Play-Off Series, Grand Slam collection. ing in the Olympic Games To- Trump. losing a play-off to Dustin John- “Actually, there’s nobody who kyo 2020 and Olympic Winter Japan’s Asahi newspaper said son for the Northern Trust Open should really feel any pressure Games Beijing 2022,” the IOC yesterday Japan had sounded and fi nishing runner up in the on them, but I would say Rory said in a statement. out North Korea about a bilateral following Dell Technologies. into the fi rst major of the year, he said. “In 2016 I was hitting it come Sunday with a chance to has the chance to win the ca- “This visit is part of the close summit. South Korea’s Unifi ca- However, in nine PGA Tour which tees off at Augusta Na- horrendously going into Augus- win. reer Grand Slam,” Spieth said. co-operation and consultations tion Ministry announced yester- events in 2018, Spieth has fi n- tional next week. ta. I’m striking the ball a lot bet- “In order for me to really feel “That’s something that he truly the IOC enjoys with all of the day that the two Korea had set a ished no higher than ninth, “I’ve gone into Augusta feeling ter now. I just putted extremely like at my highest level of confi - wants and so if there’s one week 206 National Olympic Commit- date to hold their fi rst summit in missing two halfway cuts along lower than I am right this second well starting from the fi rst round dence I need to be able to com- a year that if he said he could win tees.” more than a decade on April 27. the way. about my ability to compete, or at Augusta in ‘16. pete next week, it doesn’t make one tournament at the beginning The IOC supported North Ko- The two Koreas are technically He has dropped fourth in the the ability to get into conten- “I came off missed cuts here I a diff erence what happens here.” of every year, he’ll probably pick rean athletes fi nancially and in still at war after the 1950-1953 world rankings, but said he’s felt tion and win and still been in the think in ‘14 and ‘17 and was in the Spieth will tee-up in his fi fth Augusta, and therefore he puts kind in their eff ort to qualify for confl ict ended with a ceasefi re, worse about his chances heading last group or last couple groups,” last group, second-to-last group Masters having sandwiched more emphasis on it.” Pyeongchang. not a peace agreement. Gulf Times Friday, March 30, 2018 5 SPORT

NBA NFL Redskins trade Cravens to Broncos James ties Jordan’s Cravens’ agent, Fadde Reuters Denver Mikhail, announced in a Decem- ber statement that Cravens had been cleared to resume all foot- he Denver Broncos have ball activities after being treated reached a deal with the for post-concussion syndrome Washington Redskins and intended to return for 2018. to trade for safety Su’a Cravens, 22, battled a series double-digit scoring TCravens, according to multiple of injuries through his fi rst year reports. and a half in the NFL, including a The Redskins reportedly will concussion, a biceps injury and a receive a fi fth-round pick this knee issue that required surgery year and conditional sixth- to trim his meniscus. He suff ered round pick in 2020 for Cravens. a concussion in Week 4 of 2016, The teams will also swap spots his rookie season, and suggested in the fourth and fi fth rounds of a week later on social media that streak in Charlotte this year’s draft, with Washing- he needed to wear glasses full- ton moving up slightly in each time as a result of the injury. A ‘It’s great to have nights like this, but it’s better to be in the playoff s’ round. After considering retire- CSN Mid-Atlantic report short- ment and sitting out the entire ly afterward said there was “no AFP 2017 season, Cravens was rein- truth” to Cravens’ claim. Los Angeles stated in February by the NFL He reportedly considered re- to active status from the team’s tirement leading up to the 2017 reserve/left squad list. season, ultimately deciding to leveland superstar Le- With his reinstatement grant- step away from the team for a Bron James matched ed, Cravens became eligible to year and reevaluate. NBA icon Michael Jor- play again, but there was still the A second-round pick out of dan’s record streak of question of whether or not his USC in 2016, Cravens tallied 23 866C straight double-digit scor- team would want him back on tackles, a sack, an interception ing games Wednesday in lead- the active roster after he stepped and fi ve passes defensed in 11 ing the Cavaliers to a 118-105 away from the Redskins shortly games (three starts) while play- victory over the Charlotte Hor- before the start of the 2017 sea- ing linebacker as a rookie. He nets. son. The Broncos were said to transitioned to strong safety the James fi nished with 41 points, be trying to work out a deal for following off season before step- 10 rebounds and eight assists Cravens at the NFL Combine in ping away from the team and for the Cavs, who bounced back February. missing all of 2017. from a dismal defeat in Mi- ami on Tuesday in which they scored just 79 points. He hit double digits in the second quarter with an alley- oop dunk off a pass from JR Smith. “Any time I’m in the same conversation with Mike and other great guys it lets me know I’m doing the right thing,” said James, whose streak began on January 6, 2007. Jordan put together his streak from 1986-2001. It was a milestone night for Charlotte’s Kemba Walker as well. With 21 points he sur- passed Dell Curry (9,839 points) as the Hornets’ all-time leading scorer. James said such moments should be savoured – even in a losing eff ort. But he said records aren’t what drive him. “My motivation is love of the game,” he said. James said the Cavs had to bounce back after they were stymied by the Heat. “Miami did a great job of pushing us out of our comfort zone and we wanted to come in Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James shoots against Charlotte Hornets forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist during their NBA game in here tonight and try to get that Charlotte. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Goodell discusses safety, anthem protests back, and we did that,” said James. Cleveland, who were called a facial contusion after an wolves, who are chasing their nesota and Utah with a 111-99 It was a big night for CJ Mc- NFL commissioner Roger Goodell closed the owners’ meetings in without Kevin Love after the accidental collision with team- fi rst playoff berth since 2004 victory over the Suns in Phoe- Collum in Memphis, where he Orlando, Florida, on Wednesday by reinforcing the league’s stance forward suff ered a concussion mate Markelle Fultz. and who moved up to seventh nix. scored 42 points to lead the on safety as he weighed in a variety of topics. in Miami, are just half a game The Sixers initial tests didn’t in the Western Conference with The Jazz endured a heart- lowly Grizzlies to a 108-103 vic- Goodell is bullish about a new rule passed that calls for a 15-yard ahead of the Philadelphia 76ers indicate a concussion, but Em- the win and Utah’s 97-94 loss to breaker on their home fl oor in tory over a Portland Trail Blaz- penalty and possible ejection if a player lowers his head to initiate for third place in the Eastern biid was hospitalized after the the Boston Celtics that dropped Salt Lake City. The Celtics ar- ers team missing star Damian and make contact with his helmet, saying the league wants to take Conference. game, posting a brief video of the Jazz into the eighth and fi nal rived without injured All-Star Lillard – who stayed home for the head out of the game and prevent helmets from being used as The 76ers’ 118-101 victory himself there on Instagram cap- playoff spot. Al Horford and Marcus Morris the birth of his fi rst child. weapons. over the New York Knicks was tioned “Not Good”. “It’s great to have nights like as well as Kyrie Irving - who is Goodell said league off icials will meet with players, coaches and their eighth straight, their long- this, but it’s better to be in the out for the rest of the regular- RESULTS medical personnel from all 32 franchises during the off season to ad- est winning streak since they Towns on fire playoff s,” said the 22-year-old season after knee surgery - but LA Lakers 103 Dallas 93 dress the rule change. He added that coaches support using replay won nine in a row from February In Minneapolis, Minnesota’s Towns, who eclipsed the club came away with an unlikely win Utah 94 Boston 97 to confirm ejections. 12 through March 3, 2003. Karl-Anthony Towns erupted scoring record of 52 points held thanks to Jaylen Brown’s buzz- Phoenix 99 LA Clippers 111 “If we’re able to have replay to confirm when there’s one of these Dario Saric led Philadelphia for a career-high 56 points to by Mo Williams. But nothing er-beating three-pointer. Memphis 108 Portland 103 fouls when it happens in the game, then we should be able to use with 26 points, 14 rebounds and propel the Timberwolves to a is assured as the regular sea- “We’re fi ghters,” said Bos- Minnesota 126 Atlanta 114 replay to confirm when an ejection may be necessary,” Goodell said. fi ve assists, but the 76ers saw 126-114 victory over the Atlanta son hurtles to a fi nish. The Los ton’s Shane Larkin, who came Charlotte 105 Cleveland 118 “I believe that our coaches and clubs feel (reviewing ejections) is the All-Star Joel Embiid depart in Hawks. The victory snapped a Angeles Clippers, ninth in the off the bench to score 10 points. Orlando 104 Brooklyn 111 appropriate thing to do.” the fi rst half with what the team two-game skid for the Timber- West, kept the pressure on Min- “That’s what we do.” Philadelphia 118 New York 101

NHL Coyotes complete impressive double with win at Vegas Reuters past Grant Fuhr into sole posses- tion picked up the puck and fi red The Avalanche stayed at 90 Las Vegas sion of 11th place on the all-time a wrist shot through traffi c and points, one behind the St. Louis wins list. past a surprised Fleury for the for fourth place in the Central Connauton gave Arizona a 1-0 fi rst two-goal game of his NHL Division. They are also a point evin Connauton scored lead at the 6:22 mark of the fi rst career. behind the Los Angeles Kings two goals and Antti period. Oliver Ekman-Larsson’s Vegas hit four goalposts in the and the Anaheim Ducks. Raanta made 27 saves shot from the top of the right contest, including two by Neal in Neuvirth, who was activated to lead the Arizona circle defl ected off the stick of the third period, in falling to 27- earlier Wednesday from injured KCoyotes to a 3-2 victory over Christian Dvorak behind Fleury 10-2 at home this season. Only reserve after missing more than a the Vegas Golden Knights on to the left of the net where Con- the Winnipeg Jets (30) and the month with a lower-body injury, Wednesday night at T-Mobile nauton tapped it into an open Pittsburgh Penguins (28) have left the game with 8:07 gone in Arena in Las Vegas. cage. more home wins than the Gold- the second. Mrazek replaced him Richard Panik also scored for en Knights. and saved all 17 shots he faced. the Coyotes, who have earned Richard Panik also scored Neuvirth stopped 10 of 11 shots. back-to-back wins over the for the Coyotes, who have Flyers slip past Avs Evgeny Kuznetsov scored 38 Eastern Conference-leading earned back-to-back wins Claude Giroux and Ivan seconds into overtime to give Tampa Bay Lightning and the over Tampa Bay Lightning Provorov each scored goals Washington a victory over visit- Pacifi c Division-leading Golden and Golden Knights while Michal Neuvirth and Petr ing New York. Knights. Mrazek combined for 27 saves Kuznetsov scored on a great Arizona improved to 3-2-0 Vegas tied it fi ve minutes later Wednesday night as the Phila- individual eff ort, circling around on a season-high, six-game, when Haula one-timed a pass delphia Flyers gained two big a few New York players in the 5,862-mile road trip that ends from James Neal through Raan- points in the Eastern Conference Rangers’ zone and then beat- on Thursday night against the ta’s pads from the high slot for playoff race with a 2-1 verdict ing goalie Henrik Lundqvist on Los Angeles Kings. his 29th goal of the season. over the Colorado Avalanche in a bullet from the left side. The Alex Tuch and Erik Haula Panik gave the Coyotes a 2-1 Denver. Capitals have won fi ve in a row scored Vegas, which lost for the lead at 17:09 of the fi rst period The result enabled Philadel- and nine of their past 10 games. fi rst time in fi ve games against when he slid a backhand past phia to tie Pittsburgh for sec- Lundqvist came back after Arizona. It was just the fourth Fleury’s left pad off a pass from ond place in the Metropolitan missing three games (sore back/ regulation loss in 25 games Clayton Keller. Vegas, outshot Division with 92 points, taking neck) and turned in a solid per- against Pacifi c Division oppo- 15-5 in the fi rst period, tied it the Flyers out of the wild-card formance with 30 saves. Wash- nents (18-4-3) for the Golden 2-2 with a power-play goal at picture at least temporarily. ington goalie Braden Holtby Knights, who still hold a fi ve- 14:44 of the second, when Tuch Philadelphia bounced back after made 35 saves. point lead in the division with defl ected in Jonathan Marches- losing each of the previous two fi ve games to go. sault’s shot from the point. games in overtime. RESULTS Vegas goalie Marc-Andre The Coyotes regained the Meanwhile, Colorado took a Toronto 4 Florida 3 Fleury stopped 29 shots but was lead just 59 seconds later. The potentially costly defeat in its Washington 3 NY Rangers 2 (OT) denied his 404th career victory, Golden Knights turned it over pursuit of a Western Conference Arizona 3 Las Vegas 2 Arizona Coyotes defenseman Kevin Connauton celebrates with teammates after scoring against the which would have moved him in their own zone and Connau- playoff spot. Philadelphia 2 Colorado 1 Vegas Golden Knights. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Gulf Times 6 Friday, March 30, 2018 SPORT

FORMULA 1 MOTOGP Rossi slams pressure on himself and Mercedes fi nd bug Buff on to retire

AFP of recognising their balls and Milan whether they still have them. “There are two types of peo- ple: those who appreciate and otorcycling ace enjoy someone else’s great- that cost Hamilton Valentino Rossi has ness, and those who are jealous slammed critics of and rub their own inferiority himself and fellow on others. MItalian Gianluigi Buff on who “In Italy it’s the fashionable are defying the years in their thing to do.” sports. Rossi fi nished third at the Rossi, 39, has signed a new fi rst Grand Prix of the season in two-year contract with Ya- Qatar this month as he targets Australian GP win hama and will now remain in a tenth world title and eighth in the sport until at least 2020. the MotoGP category. His last ‘We thought we had a bit of margin and then obviously you saw the result’ His existing contract runs out world title was in 2009. at the end of 2018, his 23rd sea- And he insisted he remains Reuters son. as motivated as when he start- Goalkeeper Buff on has been ed racing in 1996. criticised for performing a u- “So many things have re- turn on his international re- mained, I won’t say the same, ormula One world cham- tirement after Italy failed to but similar, especially the de- pions Mercedes have qualify for the World Cup and sire to drive the bike and that found the computer bug making himself available at the experience when I have a good that cost Lewis Hamilton age of 40. race, the taste I feel,” he said. victoryF at the season-opening “I feel I’m still at the top and “To go down the track, Australian Grand Prix and taken this boosts me. I advise Buff on alone, with your bike is always steps to ensure it does not hap- to follow my example. People special. To try to win a race, the pen again. enjoy saying we’re fi nished,” world championship. Trackside engineering direc- Rossi told Gazzetta dello Sport. “In the last few years I have tor Andrew Shovlin said in a de- “Buff on absolutely must really liked going to the races to brief on the Mercedes website continue, if he wants to. I think work with my team, to give my http://www.mercedesamgf1. he knows if he can still be at best from Thursday to Sunday, com that the problem was not the top. It’s easier to say that having put all the little details what had been originally sus- someone’s fi nished, instead in place.” pected after Sunday’s season- opening race in Melbourne. “The issue isn’t actually with the race strategy software that Wilder awaits, but heavyweight we use,” he said. “It was an of- Joshua has eyes only for Parker fl ine tool... and we found a bug in that tool that meant that it gave Anthony Joshua heads into his bout against rival world heavy- us the wrong number.” weight champion Joseph Parker in tomorrow with Shovlin explained that the Deontay Wilder lying in wait – but the Briton insists he is not tool was used to create delta lap looking beyond this fight. Joshua is putting his International times, in this case the diff erence Boxing Federation and World Boxing Association titles on the line between Hamilton’s car remain- against World Boxing Organisation champion Parker in front of ing on track under virtual safety an expected 78,000 sell-out crowd at the Principality Stadium. car conditions while Ferrari’s It will be the first time two undefeated heavyweight champions Sebastian Vettel pitted. have met in a title fight in the United Kingdom, with the British “It’s never quite an exact sci- Ferrari’s German driver Sebastian Vettel Olympic gold medallist boasting a professional record of 20 wins, ence because you don’t know (front) leads Mercedes’ British driver Lewis including 20 knockouts, from as many contests, while New Zea- how fast a car is going to be able Hamilton during the Formula One Australian lander Parker has stopped 18 of his opponents inside the distance to come through that pit en- Grand Prix in Melbourne. (w) during an unbeaten 24-fight career. But next in line for the winner try, you don’t know quite how is Deontay Wilder, the American who holds the World Boxing closely they’ll stick to the delta,” Council version of the heavyweight title. “It’s 1,000 percent one Shovlin added. margin and then obviously you fight at a time,” Joshua told a news conference at the London Mercedes had thought their saw the result,” Shovlin said. Kubica ‘in better shape’ than before 2011 rally crash headquarters of broadcaster . four-times world champion “In future we’re going to make “My future stops on Saturday. One fight at a time. All this talk needed to be within 15 seconds of sure we have more margin be- Polish Formula One driver Warsaw, as he recounted his during the trials in Valencia about Wilder. I’m looking at Parker, he’s a champion for a reason.” Vettel to retake the lead from his cause we want to be able to cover Robert Kubica said yesterday remarkable road back. (with Renault last June) that Joshua added: “He (Parker) is quick and he can take a punch rival, whereas the actual margin for Vettel doing an amazingly he is “in better shape” now than Kubica was overlooked for a these limits aren’t significant but that is what I have heard, so I am repeating what people are was “slightly short of 13”. good in-lap to the pits, or hav- he was before a serious rally grid spot as Williams selected enough to stop me from driving saying. The diff erence was crucial, ing an incredibly fast stop,” he accident seven years ago, and Russian rookie Sergey Sirotkin in F1 at the highest level.” “Let’s say I’ve got £20 in my pocket, looking at myself I believe with Vettel re-emerging in front added. hopes to reclaim a full-time to partner Lance Stroll for the “That incredible feeling that I Anthony Joshua knocks out Joseph Parker for sure.” of the surprised Briton on a cir- Mercedes team principal Toto racing seat. The 33-year-old’s F1 2018 season, with the Pole had after the first laps of the Joshua had been accused by Parker of showing disrespect to cuit where drivers struggle to Wolff had said immediately af- career came to a sudden halt in named the team’s reserve and track, I will remember them for travelling New Zealand media by failing to grant them a separate overtake and need to save fuel, ter the race that he suspected a 2011 when he partially severed development driver. the rest of my days. It’s prob- interview slot last week. But he insisted that, after several hours of engine and tyres in the later “software glitch” had cost Mer- his right arm following a crash His role will see him take part in ably the best moment of my press duties, he had to eat before heading off for another training stages. cedes what looked like a certain during a rally in Italy. a number of practice sessions, life,” he added, smiling. session. Had Hamilton known, he victory with Hamilton leading Kubica underwent a series of while he will also be on standby Kubica, who won the 2008 Ca- “People thought I walked out on the New Zealand press but that could have gone faster after his from pole until his stop. operations and returned to for races. nadian Grand Prix, has made 76 wasn’t the case, I had to make a move and I was willing to return,” earlier stop to give himself a The Briton fi nished second for racing a year later, competing in “I can continue to fulfil my pas- Grands Prix starts, and finished Joshua said. “Unless I take care of business, no one is going to greater margin. the second year in a row. rally events, before taking part sion and take another impor- on the podium 12 times. interview me.” During a virtual safety car Shovlin said an extensive in tests with both Williams and tant step towards racing in F1,” Meanwhile Joshua said he was in the best shape of his career period, all cars on track have to analysis had been carried out Renault last season. said Kubica, who lost a part of after dethroning Wladimir Klitschko in a brutal battle and seeing slow down but there is a short and processes put in place “to “The work which has paid off , his right forearm after the ac- off Carlos Takam. stretch between the safety car make sure that we don’t have a that started at the end of 2015 cident prior to the 2011 season. “Every fight has been a learning fight and every camp a learning line and the start of the 60kph repeat”. and here I find myself in better “I must work harder than before camp,” he explained. “I learnt from the Klitschko fight I shouldn’t pit lane limit where anyone pit- The second race of the season shape than I was back in the because everyone knows that use camp to get fit. I took everything I didn’t know then into this ting can speed up. is in Bahrain on April 8, where day,” Kubica told reporters in I have limits but it turned out camp. I’ve been working solely on my technique and ability. “We thought we had a bit of Ferrari also won last year.

FOOTBALL It’s a three-way tie for Qatar Amateur League title l Bidda, Al Nasr, and champions. In the fi fth scenario ous editions and stipulate that a Al Matar will all have a where Al Bidda wins against Al team will only be allowed to take thrilling close call to- Khabayib, and Al Matar wins part in the league after they meet day as they battle it out against Al Nasr, Al Bidda and Al the requirement of registering onA the fi eld to have a chance at Nasr will have the same number not less than ten Qatari players becoming champions and lifting of points and ranking, and as per in the 30-player team and the the much coveted Qatar Ama- tournament regulations, a play- team manager must also be a Qa- teur League (QAL) trophy. off will be organised at a later tari national. Al Bidda, who has so far col- date to decide the champions of Organising the QAL illustrates lected 26 points and are currently the QAL this year. the Qatar Football Association’s ranked the second placed team, The 13 teams competing in (QFA) objective in creating a will face Al Khabayib, the seventh this year’s QAL are Qatar Uni- league that enables all teams place team with 17 points today at versity, Al Khabayib, Madinat from the social, corporate and 4pm at Al Arabi Stadium, while Khalifa, The Pearl, Al Nasr, Lu- government sectors in Qatar to Al Matar, who currently earned sail, Al Thakhira, Al Thumama, integrate and interact through 26 points making them the third Al Maroona, Al Bidda, Al Aziz- organised football. placed team will face Al Nasr who iya, Al Matar, and Doha. A total The QAL is organised by the currently leads the league with 27 of 390 players registered for this QFA Sub-Leagues Committee, points at 5:10pm. year’s edition, from which 130 the committee which is respon- In the fi rst scenario where Al are Qatari. sible for overseeing and organis- Nasr wins against Al Matar and Organised by the QFA, the fi rst ing community-specifi c leagues collects three points, Al Nasr place team prize will be a cash such as the QAL, School League, would be crowned QAL champi- prize of QR80,000, while the University League, and the Asian ons regardless of the Al Bidda-Al second and third place teams will Communities Football Tourna- Khabayib result. In the second receive a cash prize of QR60,000 ment. scenario where Al Bidda loses to and QR40,000 respectively. A The QAL’s sponsors for this Al Khabayib, and Al Matar and Al special cash prize of QR5,000 will year include The Supreme Com- Nasr draw, Al Nasr would still be be given to the top scorer of the mittee for & Legacy as crowned QAL champions. league, and a trophy will be given the Offi cial Strategic Partner, In the third scenario where Al to the best team management. Qatar National Bank (QNB) as Bidda wins against Al Khabayib Al Waab and Al Matar are the the Exclusive Financial Partner, and collects three points, while only participating teams that Nike as the Offi cial Supplier, Al Matar and Al Nasr draw and were able to take part to all edi- Al Kass Channel as the Offi cial collect one point each, Al Bidda tions of the league as they have Broadcaster and The Look Com- would be crowned QAL cham- managed to enter the competi- pany as the Branding Partner. pions. tion every year by satisfying each Al Waab currently holds the In the fourth scenario where Al edition’s rules and regulations. record of most titles with three Bidda loses against Al Khabayib, This year, the league followed a leagues won in the fi rst, third while Al Matar wins against Al single round-robin format and and fourth editions while Amwaj Action from a Qatar Amateur League match Nasr and collects three points, the rules and regulations of the has won the title of the second Al Matar would be crowned QAL league have changed from previ- edition. Gulf Times Friday, March 30, 2018 7 FOOTBALL

EPL BUNDESLIGA Dortmund out to delay the inevitable – Conte backs Morata another Bayern title

Reuters ourselves yet.” Berlin The only other time Bayern won the title in March was under Pep Guardiola in 2014. t any other time a Bayern, chasing a treble, to fi nish Chelsea showdown between would be boosted by picking up Bayern Munich and their fi rst silverware of the sea- Borussia Dortmund son ahead of their Champions wouldA be a season highlight but League quarter-fi nal fi rst leg when the teams clash tomorrow, against Sevilla next week and a the focus will be on how soon can German Cup semi-fi nal to fol- the Bavarians secure their sixth low. But despite an inconsistent successive Bundesliga crown. season, Dortmund have recov- season with a bang Dortmund are battling for a ered under coach Peter Stoeger Champions League spot for next and remain undefeated in the 12 ‘Now he is really fit and is ready to have an important end to the season for Chelsea’ season, lying in third place on league games since he took over 48 points. They are one point in December. Reuters behind Schalke 04, who host “They are playing better and Manchester Freiburg with seven games left in now also under the new coach,” the campaign. Robben warned. “Dortmund Bayern are 17 points clear at remain a very good team even if helsea manager Anto- the top and had to put their title this season they were not as con- nio Conte has backed celebrations on ice after losing sistent.” striker Alvaro Morata 2-1 to RB Leipzig in the previous Dortmund will likely be with- to play an important matchday. out winger Marco Reus, with the roleC in the fi nal stretch of the But victory over visiting Dort- Germany international having Premier League season and mund in combination with a missed the friendlies against boost his chances of making draw or defeat for Schalke would Spain and Brazil in the past days Spain’s squad for the World Cup be enough for Bayern to wrap up as well as their previous league this year. a record-extending 28th league game with adductor muscle Morata made a brisk start af- title. problems. ter signing from Real Madrid in “Obviously this is in the back “I don’t think there is enough the close season but has gone of our minds,” said Bayern winger time until the weekend,” said off the boil in recent weeks. He Arjen Robben, who has recovered Stoeger of Reus’ chances of scored the last of his 10 league from injury and has returned to making the big game. goals in this campaign in De- training this week. He is expected Defender Omer Toprak is also cember as Chelsea beat Bright- to be fi t for the match. looking doubtful but with the on and Hove Albion 2-0. “If we had to chose a timing to Ruhr valley club having won fi ve The 25-year-old was left win it then we would want it to of their last seven league games out of Julen Lopetegui’s Spain be this Saturday. But obviously and a Champions League spot the squad for last week’s interna- we still depend on others as well only goal left in their season, mo- tional friendlies against Ger- to win it and cannot secure it tivation should not be an issue. many and Argentina but Conte said Morata had used the time during his enforced break to raise the level of his game. Wenger’s desire for success “He has been working very at Arsenal still strong: Bould well, and he needed to work hard. Now he is really fi t and is Arsene Wenger’s appetite for Moscow in the quarter-finals ready to have an important end success has not diminished and next week. to the season for Chelsea,” Con- the Arsenal manager is doing a “He’s doing a great job as far as te told reporters yesterday. “great job” at the London club, I’m concerned and he’s done A win for fi fth-placed Chel- his assistant Steve Bould has a great job for an awful long sea in Sunday’s London derby said. Bould, speaking in place of time,” former Arsenal defender will take them to 59 points, two an ill Wenger ahead of Sunday’s Bould added. points behind Tottenham in Premier League game against “I admire him immensely. He fourth. Stoke City, said the 68-year-old takes unbelievable stick off an The defending champions was a great manager. Wenger awful lot people and he’s just are looking to overtake Mauri- has faced criticism in recent one of the great managers. It’s cio Pochettino’s side and seal a seasons for the club’s failure to a pleasure for me to sit next to top-four fi nish that will ensure mount a serious title challenge. him.” Champions League action next Arsenal are set to finish their Midfielder Jack Wilshere was season. 14th straight season without training without any problem Chelsea are also in the semi- winning the league title and after missing England’s inter- fi nals of the FA Cup where they Wenger said recently that calls national friendlies against the take on and Con- for him to step down had grown Netherlands and Italy last week te is aware of the need to ensure in the past few years because with a knee injury. Striker Alex- a strong fi nish to a diffi cult sea- of prejudice against older andre Lacazette is also back in son. managers. full training after minor surgery “These are our targets. Sun- Asked if Wenger’s desire was on his left knee last month. day is an important game be- as strong as ever, Bould said: Relegation-threatened Stoke cause if we win we go very close Chelsea manager Antonio Conte during the press conference in London yesterday. (Reuters) “Absolutely, he is remarkable. are second from bottom with - otherwise we continue to stay Behind closed doors I’ve never 27 points from 31 games. They not so close and with seven Mauricio Pochettino said that think when you play this type of Lineker scored the winning goal game, they are a good team.” met anybody who is as hungry beat Arsenal 1-0 in the reverse games to go it will be diffi cult to his team will be under as much game, I think the pressure is for in a 2-1 league victory. Harry Kane will be assessed and determined to win football fixture earlier this season. take a place in the Champions pressure. both teams,” Pochettino told a “I think it is not a point of fo- before the weekend, with the games. It’s as big as I’ve ever League.” Both teams are looking to se- news conference yesterday. cus for us - we are focused on striker stepping up his recovery seen.” Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois cure a top-four fi nish to ensure “Of course there are still a lot performance and the possibility from an ankle injury he picked Wenger took charge of Arsenal could miss the game after pick- participation in next season’s of games to play, it is not a fi nal. to be better than them and have up in this month’s 4-1 win over in 1996 and has led the club to ing up a hamstring injury on in- Champions League. Fourth- It is not a decisive game that is the capacity to win the game,” Bournemouth. three league titles and seven FA ternational duty with Belgium placed Tottenham currently going to put you in one or an- Pochettino added. “I think it’s diffi cult now to Cup triumphs but has failed to while defender David Luiz is occupy the fi nal qualifi cation other position... but obviously “Of course the history is the say yes or no, to be involved win in Europe. Arsenal are sixth still battling a knee injury. spot and sit fi ve points ahead of it is important for your confi - history. It’s there but it’s not or not in the game. If not this in the league with 48 points Chelsea with eight games left dence, your motivation.” going to help, fi rst of all Chel- weekend, maybe next weekend from 30 matches. Their hopes ‘Pressure on both this season. Tottenham have not beaten sea and then us... to win against but the most important thing is of silverware lie in the Europa Tottenham, Chelsea’ “It is always a massive game Chelsea at Stamford Bridge Chelsea would be fantastic for that we are so positive about his League where they face CSKA Tottenham Hotspur manager because it is a London derby. I since 1990, when striker Gary everyone but it will be a tough recovery.”

LA LIGA SERIE A Udinese reminded of penalty Messi fi tness doubts dog that changed everything

Reuters defeat which was estimated to gation battle and need to begin Milan have cost the club at least 20 winning matches, starting with million euros ($25 million) in Saturday’s visit to Atalanta. Barca ahead of Sevilla visit lost Champions League rev- “This is a delicate moment Reuters “Messi has a bit of discom- ired in the lower enue. “After six years, I still and we have to work hard,” he Barcelona fort but we think it’s nothing half of the Serie A can’t get it out of my head,” he said after a 2-1 defeat by Sas- important. We’re relaxed,” Val- table again this sea- said. “It stalks me.” suolo in their previous game. verde said.“Argentina only lost son, Udinese were “I have never asked him why “From now on, we are begin- arcelona must decide a friendly. The World Cup hasn’t Mgiven another reminder this he took it that way. It was my ning a new mini-league which whether to fi eld Lionel started yet and not all our play- week of a bizarre missed pen- mistake, I should have picked fi ve is the battle against relegation, Messi as they resume ers will be able to win it.” alty nearly six years ago which penalty takers who had helped where we have to get as many their bid for the Liga Barca are still missing midfi eld is widely seen as the turning get to the team to that stage, not points as possible. Maybe we titleB away to Sevilla tomorrow anchor Sergio Busquets with a point in their recent history. the last one to have arrived.” need to be afraid, so that we are amid doubts about their talis- toe problem, while left back Lu- Udinese’s fortunes took a The player himself went motivated again.” man’s fi tness at the start of a cas Digne is out for three weeks dramatic turn for the worse on to spend two years at Udi- “I began to get nervous gruelling period of seven games with a muscle injury sustained after they agonisingly missed nese, although he said his ca- when people started talking in 22 days. on international duty with out on the Champions League reer was never the same again, about qualifying for the Europa Messi missed Argentina’s France. group stage for 2012/13 by los- and is now playing in Brazil for League,” he added. friendlies against Italy and 11-point lead over nearest chal- their 36-game unbeaten record Sevilla host runaway Bun- ing 5-4 on penalties to Portu- Gremio. Udinese have never “This squad is not mature Spain due to a muscle problem lengers Atletico Madrid gives in the league. desliga leaders Bayern Munich guese side Braga in a playoff tie. come close to qualifying for the enough to aspire to such things sustained after Barca’s last Liga coach Ernesto Valverde wiggle They are targeting the Liga in the fi rst leg of their Cham- Midfi elder Maicosuel, then a Champions League group stage and it made us take some steps outing against Athletic Bilbao room in their bid to reclaim the record of 38 games unbeaten, pions League quarter-fi nal tie recent signing, missed the cru- since and have fi nished in the backwards. We need to get our and only completed half of a title. Barca have the fi rst leg of held by Real Sociedad from the on Tuesday and will be with- cial penalty after his attempted bottom half of the Serie A table feet back on the ground.” training session their Champions League quar- 1979/80 season. out suspended midfi elder Pablo “Panenka” went embarrass- for the last four seasons. Menawhile former Italian yesterday. ter-fi nal tie against AS Roma on Valverde said on Wednes- Sarabia against Barca as well as ingly wrong. The Brazilian tried This current campaign has Serie A coach Emiliano Mon- He is the top scorer in La Liga Wednesday and fi ve more games, day he was not overly con- veteran Jesus Navas, who is to copy the style pioneered by also turned into a slog and de- donico, who guided clubs such with 25 goals and has featured culminating in the Cup fi nal cerned about Messi’s fi tness and injured. Czech player Antonin Panenka feats in their last fi ve matches as Torino, Fiorentina and Ata- in all but one of Barca’s league against Sevilla on April 21 before laughed off suggestions his for- On Sunday, second-placed by nonchalantly chipping the have left Massimo Oddo, the lanta, has died aged 71 years games this campaign, only sit- earning a seven day rest before ward would be aff ected by Ar- Atletico host struggling De- ball into the centre of the goal sixth coach to occupy the hot after a long battle with cancer, ting out the match against Ma- their next league game. gentina’s humiliating 6-1 defeat portivo La Coruna, who are but his mis-hit eff ort was saved seat since Guidolin left in 2014, his family said yesterday. laga following the birth of his Barca have failed to win on to Spain on Tuesday. still without a win under coach by Braga goalkeeper Beto. looking over his shoulder. Mondonico’s greatest suc- third son. two of their last three visits to Messi left his seat at the Wan- Clarence Seedorf, while cham- Francesco Guidolin, the Udi- With Udinese only nine cess was leading Torino to the The trip to Sevilla is likely to Sevilla’s famously atmospheric da Metropolitano stadium im- pions Real, four points behind nese coach at the time, told points clear of the relegation 1992 UEFA Cup fi nal, and the be Barca’s hardest away game Sanchez Pizjuan stadium, how- mediately after the sixth goal their city rivals in third, visit Gazzetta dello Sport this week zone, Oddo has warned his Italian Cup trophy the follow- left this season although their ever, and will be keen to extend went in. 18th-placed Las Palmas. that he was still haunted by the players that they are in a rele- ing year.

Friday, March 30, 2018 GULF TIMES SPORT

HORSE RACING Bughanaim rides MJ Lattam to narrow victory over Rassan Talented Qatari jockey Faleh Bughanaim helms the colt to his third victory this season

Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) deputy chief steward Abdulla Rashid al-Kubaisi (third from right) with the winners of the Fuweiret Cup after MJ Lattam won the 1200m race at the QREC on Wednesday. PICTURES: Juhaim

be precise, without a win since moving (Falco x La Seine), helmed by JP Guil- The colt, who had won in January this to Qatar from the UK. After fi nishing lambert, completed the top three. year, registered his second victory this a strong second on his last outing over season, crossing the line with a little 2800m, the gelding proved just as ef- PUREBRED ARABIAN HANDICAP under three lengths to spare. fective over a much shorter 1700m to (70 & BELOW) The Mansoor Ebrahim al-Mahmoud notch his fi rst victory in Qatar. Disco A step up in distance proved no hur- owned colt beat Hadi Nasser Rashid al- Inferno (Lawman x Pink Sovietstaia), dle for Umm Qarn’s Bint Amir (Amer Ramzani trained King of Doha (Duke of ridden by Qatari jockey Faleh Bugha- x Hanoof) in the 1700m run on dirt Marmalade x Bibury), helmed by Qatari naim for trainer Hamad Mohammed on Wednesday. Alban Elie Marie de jockey Faleh Bughanaim, for the win, Qatari jockey Faleh Bughanaim (left) guides MJ Lattam to victory in the Fuweiret Cup ahead of Rassan, ridden by Harry Al Khayarin, beat Mohamed Hussain Mieulle’s charge had picked up her while Almotasem al-Balushi guided Bentley, at the QREC on Wednesday. Afroz’s ward, Succeed and Excel (Ex- maiden victory over six furlongs last Mohamed Riyaz Ibrahim Kasim trained ceed and Excel x Woodbeck), helmed month. After following it up with a Tea Leaf (Bushranger x Boston Ivy) to he owner-trainer duo of Moha- THOROUGHBRED CONDITIONS Victory Laurel (Holy Roman Emperor x by Jean Baptiste Hamel, for the second strong third two weeks ago, the 5-year- third place. nad Jassim al-Yaqout and Hadi (CLASS 2) Special Cause) was back in the winner’s sport by half a length. old had little trouble under Stephan Nasser Rashid al-Ramzani Hadi Nasser Rashid al-Ramzani trained circle after more than a year. Ridden by Ladjadj to win with three and a half PUREBRED ARABIAN MAIDEN capped Wednesday’s action at Karraar (Dubawi x Maghya) went one Saleem Golam in the six furlong sprint, LOCAL THOROUGHBRED HANDI- lengths to spare. PLATE (4-6-YEAR-OLD) TQatar Racing and Equestrian Club with better than his last outing to register his the 8-year-old went past the line with Mohamed Salama Salim Ashour’s Osama Omer al-Dafea had a one-two in CAP (75 & BELOW) two straight winners, with MJ Lat- fi rst victory in 2018. Mohanad Jassim three quarters of a length to spare even Ibrahim Saeed Ibrahim al-Malki’s War ward, Diljah Zakhir (Munahis x Mariki- the card’s opening race with Aziz’nafs tam (AF Albahar x Menwat Al Jazeera) al-Yaqout owned gelding had a runner as JP Guillambert guided Mohamed King (Paynter x Queensbridge) made tah), ridden by Marc Lerner in the silks (Munjiz x Nelka) shedding his maiden claiming the six furlong Fuweiret Cup. up fi nish over C&D in the Mesaimeer Riyaz Ibrahim Kasim trained Reced- it two straight victories in as many of Zakhir Stud, improved well over her status on his 13th career outing. Rid- Coming into the race, the 5-year-old Cup a week ago, and on Wednesday did ing Waves (Dick Turpin x Welanga) to a weeks as Mohamed Abdulla Abdulma- last outing with a second place fi nish, den by Gerald Avranche, the 5-year- had never fi nished outside the frame well to fi nish the mile and a furlong run close second. lik owned colt topped the 1700m run in while Gerald Avranche helmed Khattab old showed no signs of stopping on over C&D, and the record stayed in- with a little over two lengths to spare The 5-year-old edged out Ahmed a thrilling fi nish. The 3-year-old had (Amer x Basilic D’Elios), trained by Zu- the home straight as he registered a six tact, as talented Qatari jockey Faleh under a confi dent ride by Tomas Lu- Mohamed Kobeissi trained Beach Sam- made a perfect debut in a six furlong hair Mohsen Zuhair Maki, completed length victory over a mile and a fur- Bughanaim helmed the colt to his third kasek. Ibrahim Saeed Ibrahim al-Malki ba (Lope De Verga x Braziliz) was third maiden a week ago, winning by almost the top three. long with stablemate Baker de Saularie victory this season. However, before trained First to Post (Acclamation x Ao- under Jean Baptiste Hamel’s ride. 10 lengths. (Kerbella x Babiche De Saulari) fi nish- the connections enjoyed the fruits of ife Alainn), helmed by Eduard Pedroza, Eduardo Pedroza was once again in THOROUGHBRED GRADUATION ing second under Almotasem al-Bal- the victory, Jassim Mohammed Ghaz- was second ahead of Mohammed Riyaz THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP the saddle and did enough to keep the PLATE (CLASS 5) ushi. Aziz’nafs had shown promise on ali Jahromi’s charge, Rassan (Amer x Ibrahim Kasim schooled Emaad (Arch (CLASS 4) (80 & BELOW) record intact as War King stepped up With a C&D victory in the bag, and dirt ever since moving to Qatar earlier Sandytiki), ridden by Harry Bentley, x Diesis), with Almotasem al-Balushi Jassim Mohamed Ghazali Jahromi’s in distance in style to beat Jassim Mo- good form thereafter, Jassim Mohamed this season, notching up top fi ve fi nish- had given MJ Lattam a scare, missing astride. second winner of the day was Shaheen hammed Ghazali Jahromi’s Abu Samrah Ghazali Jahromi trained High Com- es each time, including on Wednesday. out only by a short head at the line. bin Khalid Shaheen al-Ghanim owned (Zafeen x Starks), with Harry Bentley mander (Teofi lo x Pellinore) was in the Hadi Nasser Rashid al-Ramzani Hassan Ali Hassan al-Matwi’s Raqee THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP Yaarmen (Nayef x Haamaat). The astride, by a quarter of a length. reckoning for a win in the 2000m race. schooled Ajs Al Moheeb (Amer x Gabie (Mared Al Sahra x Cath) completed the (CLASS 3) (75-95) 4-year-old had registered a string of Another ward from the stables of the Under Champion Jockey Harry Bent- De Carrere) completed the top three top three under Saleem Golam. Ibrahim Saeed Ibrahim al-Malki trained near misses, six top three fi nishes to Champion Trainer, Rawdat Al Khail ley, the 4-year-old did not disappoint. under Tomas Lukasek.

TENNIS Ninth leg of Hathab series from today Qualifi er Collins topples idol Venus

AFP Miami

anielle Collins produced the per- formance of a lifetime and pulled off an almighty shock at the WTA Miami Open on Wednesday night, sendingD Venus Williams crashing out 6-2, 6-3 to reach the semi-fi nals. It was an amazing eff ort from a 24 year- old qualifi er in just her second season as a professional and her debut appearance at Key Biscayne. This was the fi rst time in two attempts Collins has beaten a top 10 player, and even the crestfallen world number eight Williams would fi nd it impossible to admit Collins didn’t deserve to seal a meeting with French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko for a place in tomorrow’s fi nal. “I don’t think it was my best night of ten- nis, but there wasn’t a shot she couldn’t make,” Williams said. “She played very well and aggressively, and she went for every Danielle Collins of the United States whips a forehand during her win over Venus Williams The 9th leg of the Hathab Equestrian Tour National series will be held at Al Shaqab Indoor Arena shot and it landed.” of the United States in the quarter-finals of the Miami Open. (AFP) today and tomorrow. The mandatory veterinary check for the horses was done yesterday followed Collins was simply delighted with the win by riders’ warm-up sessions. The competition today will begin with Small Tour and Medium Tour over a player she idolized. “The fi rst time I she takes on Ostapenko full of confi dence last-four encounter with Isner today. “I love events. Tomorrow, dressage events (Level 1 and 2) will be held in the morning and will be followed by saw Venus in the locker room I nearly cried,” and ready to reach her fi rst big tourna- to play in matches like this,” a visibly weary the Open Class and Big Tour events later in the afternoon and evening. PICTURE: Lotfi Garsi Collins said. “She has been my favourite ment fi nal. “I played Jelena a long time ago del Potro said after his 15th straight match player so I am fi nding it diffi cult to wrap my on clay in the juniors and I won, so now we win. “We both played well, the diff erence head around this. All young American girls are grown up I am excited to play her again. was perhaps that I just played better in the look up to Serena and Venus. I can relate to “She’s a fi ghter and I cannot wait to get out tie-breaks. I am tired now, but at least I have FOCUS them and their upbringing. I didn’t come there and have another great match. “This a day off to prepare for Friday. It’s going to from a wealthy family so didn’t start play- is such a cool situation, I need a couple of be important that I recover physically and ing at the country club as a kid. Playing on hours to process it all.” mentally because that was a real battle.” public courts helped give me a diff erent per- Ostapenko, meanwhile, showed the kind Del Potro came into the match owning spective. It makes you grow up and even at a of aggression and heavy hitting which will the hottest streak on the ATP tour with 20 Murray to play in Dutch young age I was pretty mature.” be needed to keep Collins quiet. match wins this year. The Argentine’s re- The previously unheralded Collins, a In a rematch of last year’s round of 16 turn to form has delighted his fans in Miami, Florida native who ended 2017 ranked 167th match at Wimbledon, the French Open where they packed the main stadium once but came into this tournament as the 93rd champion was too strong for fourth seed again to cheer their hero ever closer to win- grass-court event in June best player in the world, is certainly hav- Elina Svitolina, running out a deserved 7-6 ning the “Sunshine Double” of Indian Wells ing a March to remember. As a wildcard she (7/3) 7-6 (7/5) winner. and Miami on the heels of his triumph in Reuters tinue his comeback from injury on the grass courts reached the round of 16 in Indian Wells and Acapulco. London of Rosmalen in the Netherlands,” the organisers of has gone far better here with a fantastic run DEL POTRO STREAKS INTO SEMIS Isner will, however, be a diffi cult nut to the June 11-17 tournament said. to the last four having come through quali- WITH GRITTY WIN OVER RAONIC crack with the American recovering from an Murray, who has not played in the Netherlands fying. In the men’s, Juan Martin del Potro raised early season slump to play some of the best ndy Murray has agreed to play at the June since reaching the quarter-fi nals of the Rotterdam That eclipsed the previous best result by a the roof as he came from behind to beat Mi- tennis of his career. His destruction of South grass-court tournament in Rosmalen Open in 2015, posted pictures of himself playing qualifi er, when Marion Bartoli made the last los Raonic 5-7, 7-6 (7/1), 7-6 (7/3) and power Korean Chung Hyeon 6-1, 6-4 was impres- in the Netherlands, as the former world in Nice this week in an encouraging sign that he eight in 2003. Collins could be excused for into a semi-fi nal clash with American John sive considering the 14th seed arrived in number one steps up his bid to fully re- is working his way back to full fi tness. “I am look- being nervous, yet the media studies gradu- Isner. Roared on by a partisan crowd, del Po- South Florida having won just two matches coverA from hip surgery in time for Wimbledon. The ing forward to getting back on the grass and to play ate from the University of Virginia,who tro rallied after losing the fi rst set to fi nally all year. Scot has not played a competitive match since los- Rosmalen for the fi rst time,” the 30-year-old said. claimed two NCAA collegiate singles titles wear down the Canadian in two hours and 53 The big-serving 32-year-old American ing to Sam Querrey in the Wimbledon quarter-fi - “I’ve heard lots of good things about the tourna- in three seasons, made a brilliant start, rac- minutes of relentless drama. fi red 13 aces to dispatch 19th-seeded Chung nals last July and underwent an operation on the hip ment and the courts are meant to be very good — it’s ing into a 3-0 lead and never looked back. There was little diff erence between these in only 68 minutes. “I played extremely well at the start of the year after rest and recuperation the perfect way for me to prepare for Wimbledon.” Her hitting, especially from the back of two big hitters, but it was the Argentine who and every match I have gotten better and failed to resolve the issue. The ATP World Tour 250 series event was won by the court, was of the highest order and now held his nerve when it counted to book a stronger,” Isner said. “The two-time Wimbledon champion will con- Luxembourg’s Gilles Muller in 2017.