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Wednesday, November 16, 2016 CRICKET Safar 16, 1438 AH Six-wicket Abbott GULF TIMES fi res South Africa to series win SPORT Page 3

FOOTBALL SPOTLIGHT Khalil helps UAE stay in grab crucial the hunt for Russia

AFC point in China to keep

hmed Khalil’s thunderous first half volley helped put the back in contention for a Aplace at the finals of the 2018 FIFA 2018 WC hopes alive World Cup in Russia as ’s side secured a 2-0 win over Iraq at the Mohamed bin Zayed Stadium Qatar coach Fossati: This point is important because we have lost three games already. yesterday. The former AFC Player of the Year The first half of the campaign is finished and now we will do our best in the second smashed home an unstoppable right foot effort in the 26th minute to put AFC Mahdi Ali’s side on the road to all Kunming three points, moving the UAE onto Qatar goalkeeper Saad al-Sheeb nine points and level with Australia fends off a China attack in Kunming in third place in the group. atar’s defence fended off China to walk yesterday. Victory was secured for the UAE away with a point yesterday as Jorge Fos- thanks to an equally spectacular sati’s boys stayed in the hunt for a berth save by goalkeeper Ali Khaseif, who at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. threw himself to his left to somehow TheQ 0-0 draw in Kunming took Qatar’s tally to keep out Mohanad Abdulraheem’s four points from fi ve matches in Group A, keep- finely glanced header, before Ismail ing them above China, who only have two. Mattar claimed his side’s second Despite the lions’ share of possession and nu- deep into injury time. merous shots on goal, China could not unlock Japan and are tied the Qatari defence in ’s fi rst game at the summit on ten points as the in charge. group reaches the halfway stage. “We had a very tough fi rst half and we couldn’t The game started in feisty fashion control the ball,” said Fossati. “The home team as both sides sought to take control put us under a lot of pressure but our defence of the midfield, with tackles flying held strong and we improved our possession and going in from each team, while weak attack in the second half. efforts from Khalil and Justin Meram “We didn’t have a great match today but we for their respective sides both rolled gained a point thanks to our defence. This point off target inside the opening quarter is important because we have lost three games of the match. already. The fi rst half of the campaign is fi nished By the 23rd minute, the UAE al- and now we will do our best in the second. most carved out the opener when “If we can win against Uzbekistan, it will be a laid off to diff erence of six points. We think we have a big his brother Omar, and the chance.” midfielder screwed his left foot shot Qatar had the fi rst real opportunity of the from just outside the area wide of game after being awarded a corner kick with fi ve the goalkeeper’s left post. minutes on the clock. Three minutes later, however, the The set piece delivery initially looked to be home side were in front thanks to a mishit and appeared to be swinging out of the spectacular strike from Khalil. box, but a late-arriving surprised Jiang and Zhang then had further chances for The woodwork then denied China once again their opponents; we were able to play good foot- The Al Ahli forward released Abe- the defence with a fi rm header back in. China but did not manage to unduly trouble al- with ten minutes left as ran onto a ball and proved that we were better than Qatar. daziz Sanqoor down the right side The ball found Sebastian Soria in front of the Sheeb before Mohamed Musa tested Yan Junling half-cleared ball and shot from outside the box, “We will do our best as long as we have a theo- and when his attempted cross was goal, but his backheel attempt was just wide of with a strike through a sea of legs just before the but his eff ort came off a Qatari defender before retical chance of qualifying. We are on the right blocked by Dhurgham Ismael, Khalil the goal post as the startled China defenders half that the goalkeeper was equal too. striking the goal post. track and that is what matters. If we keep per- stepped forward to smash his volley stood and watched. The second half saw much of the same as Wu That would prove to be as good as it got for the forming like this, the hope is not dead yet.” over the outstretched arms of Mo- Up the other end, Jiang Zhipeng’s hard free Xi met a Chinese corner kick with a fi rm diving home supporters, as Qatar endured some nervy hamed Hameed and in off the under- kick six minutes later was on target as it found its header in the 55 minutes, only for Al Sheeb to fi nal moments to come away with a share of the STANDINGS side of the bar. way through the Qatari wall, but it bounced off push it onto the underside of the crossbar and spoils. Iraq had barely stirred in the Saad al-Sheeb’s gloves and out for a corner kick. back out before Musa hacked it away. “Our team have done a good job and I told Group A opening exchanges, but in the 34th The hosts were racking up the chances now Yan was then called into action as he dove at them so in the dressing room,” said Lippi. “They Rank P W D L F A GD Pts minute they were almost level but were not having much luck as Wu Lei ran on full stretch to his right to keep substitute Rodrigo should be satisfi ed about themselves. What we Iran 5 3 2 0 4 0 +4 11 when Ahmed Yasin powered down to a ball from Jiang, almost slipping while cutting Tabata’s free kick out. were short of today was a bit of luck. Korea Republic 5 3 1 1 8 6 +2 10 the right before crossing to Abdul- past his marker before hitting the far post with Lippi gave Shenhua winger Cao “We had known before this match that our Uzbekistan 5 3 0 2 5 3 +2 9 raheem and his first-time effort his shot. Yunding his debut soon after and the 26-year- hope of qualifying to the World Cup in Russia Syria 5 1 2 2 1 2 -1 5 crashed into the side netting. Four Unfortunately, the fl ag had gone up due to old almost made an instant impact as he took on was a very small one and it will be even more dif- Qatar 5 1 1 3 3 6 -3 4 minutes later Meram sent his at- Zhang Yuning straying off side in the build up to several defenders in the Qatari box, but his fi nal fi cult after this game. After today’s match, I want China PR 5 0 2 3 2 6 -4 2 tempt from the edge of the area over Wu Lei’s shot on goal. eff ort found the side netting. to tell my players that they are not inferior to the bar.

BOTTOMLINE Thailand joy at last, S Korea and Japan win

in and the gamble paid off big home fans took full advantage as their Reuters Results Seoul time as the ‘Blue Samurai’ picked up side claimed their fi rst point of the fi - three crucial points. nal qualifying round. Results from Asia’s 2018 World Cup That lifted Japan into second, level Two penalties from Australia skip- qualifiers yesterday. hailand’s national soccer team on 10 points with the Saudis, while per Mile Jedinak were cancelled out by gave the country a lift by hold- Australia slipped to third, a point be- two goals, one from the spot, by Thai- Group A ing Asian champions Australia hind with fi ve games left to play. land’s Teerasil Dangda. South Korea 2 (Nam Tae-Hee 67, to a shock 2-2 draw in World The top two sides in Group A and Japan capitalised on Australia’s slip- Koo Ja-Cheol 85) Uzbekistan 1 (Marat CupT qualifying yesterday while South B qualify automatically for the 2018 up with their victory over Saudi Arabia Bikmaev 25) Korea and Japan took the heat off their World Cup in Russia while the third- but were almost punished for failing to China 0 Qatar 0 under-fi re coaches with matching 2-1 placed teams meet to decide who goes put the game away. Iran 0 Syria 0 wins. into a CONCACAF-Asian Zone playoff A controversial Hiroshi Kiyotake The Koreans gave coach Uli Stielike for a place at the fi nals. penalty and Genki Haraguchi’s late Group B the perfect 62nd birthday gift with a The Thai FA had originally sought to strike put Japan 2-0 up before Saudi Japan 2 (Hiroshi Kiyotake 45-pen, come-from-behind victory over Uz- have the match moved out of the coun- Arabia pulled one back through Omar Genki Haraguchi 80) Saudi Arabia 1 bekistan in Seoul that lifted them into try as a mark of respect for their mon- Hawsawi in the 90th minute. (Omar Othman 90) second spot in Group A behind Iran, arch but when that request was denied Halilhodzic was relieved to get the Thailand 2 (Teerasil Dangda 20, who were held to a 0-0 draw by Syria. it told fans to wear sombre clothes and win over a strong Saudi side. 57-pen) Australia 2 (Jedinak 9-pen, Japan coach Vahid Halilhodzic took banned drums, trumpets and fl ags “We have had some diffi culties 65-pen) the bold step of dropping Keisuke from the stadium. lately, but the players’ courage and de- UAE 2 ( 26, Honda and to the bench Thailand’s Teerasil Dangda is challenged by Australia’s Milos Degenek in Bangkok However, that ban on “joyful activi- termination has delivered us this very 90+3) Iraq 0 against Group B leaders Saudi Arabia yesterday. ties” was lifted early this month and important result,” he said. Gulf Times 2 Wednesday, November 16, 2016 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT CONFESSION My United days could soon be up: Carrick LA Galaxy confi rm AFP Manchester

anchester United midfi elder Michael Carrick says this Mcould be his last sea- Gerrard departure son at the club and backed world- record signing to showcase his “very special” talent. ‘When I left Liverpool, I came to Los Angeles with the goal of helping the Galaxy lift The veteran has mainly been used in cup com- another MLS Cup.I am of course disappointed to have not achieved that objective...’ petitions this season under Jose Mourinho, although he did start United’s last league game and is in contention for only his second Premier League start of the cam- File picture of Manchester paign against Arsenal. United’s Michael Carrick. Asked if he would like to re- main at Old Traff ord beyond Pogba, signed over the sum- this season, the former England mer from Juventus, is among international told Sky Sports: those blocking Carrick’s path but “Yeah, but I’m 35 now and I have the Frenchman has failed to so to be realistic. far justify his 89-million-pound “I’m not going to make predic- price tag. But Pogba, 23, scored tions about what is going to be a cracker against Swansea last happening next season. time out and found the net again “We are not even at Christmas in his country’s 2-1 win over yet and I just want to play as many Sweden on Friday. games as I can and see how I’m “The attributes he has are in- feeling, how the body is feeling. credible. We all saw the game “That is the biggest gauge to see against Swansea and physically if I can still do it, if I feel I can still he is pretty much perfect – such do it and the manager feels that. a specimen,” Carrick said. “There is a lot of things to “He can cover ground but the come into the equation, so I’m ability he has got is something not going to be making any rash very special. judgements just yet.” “At the same time, it is not an Put to him that at this late easy thing to come into and hit stage of his career he may have to the ground running, be at top accept his future lies away from form. Changing leagues, chang- United, he said: “There’s always ing countries, there are all sorts a chance of that, isn’t there?” of things that come into it.”

Everton’s Koeman tips and Melbourne Victory in the Liverpool to challenge New Zealand capital has been for title postponed because of dam- age caused to the venue by Everton manager Ronald Koe- Monday’s earthquake, Football man has tipped the Merseyside Federation Australia said club’s fierce rivals Liverpool to yesterday. be among the sides fighting for FFA made the decision on the the Premier League title this advice of the owners of the season. Wellington Regional Stadium, Liverpool have made a strong known for commercial purpos- start to the campaign, having es as Westpac Stadium, who lost only once in 14 games in all nonetheless said the 34,400- competitions, which has pro- seat arena had been cleared of pelled them to the top of the “major structural damage”. league and the quarter-finals of “The stadium closed its doors the League Cup. yesterday as a precaution- “It’s still too early to say who will ary measure following the be the favourites but I have been Kaikoura... earthquake early on This file photo shows Steven Gerrard (L) of the LA Galaxy as he vies for the header with Jose Daniel Guerrero (R) of Club America in his debut for the MLS team. impressed by Liverpool so far,” Monday morning,” said a West- Koeman told ESPN. Liverpool pac Stadium news release. AFP he suggested that he will now move on to est to numerous potential suitors, in- “...But I can look back at my time at are also the league’s leading “The internal concourse and Los Angeles another club before hanging up his boots. cluding Scottish champions Celtic. the club with pride at what we ac- goal-scorers, having netted seating bowl remain closed “When I left Liverpool, I came to Los Managed by Gerrard’s former boss at complished, including two straight 30 times in 11 games, and their until repairs have been Angeles with the goal of helping the Gal- Anfi eld Brendan Rodgers, they have been playoff appearances and countless attacking style of play has given completed. These repairs are ormer England midfi elder Steven axy lift another MLS Cup,” said Gerrard, installed as the favourites with book- memorable moments on the pitch” supporters hope that the club expected to take two weeks to Gerrard has left Major League who was eliminated in the Western Con- makers at odds of 2/1 to be his next port can end their 26-year wait for a complete. Soccer side LA Galaxy, the club ference semi-fi nals with Galaxy by Colo- of call. basically go over my options and decide league title this season. “As a result, Football Federation confi rmed yesterday, but he in- rado Rapids earlier this month. which is the best next challenge for me.” “Maybe that is not what you of Australia in consultation with Fdicated that he is not yet ready to retire “I am of course disappointed to have GOT OPTIONS Gerrard’s departure comes a day after might expect the Everton the Wellington Phoenix and the from playing. not achieved that objective, but I can look Speaking to Galaxy TV, he added: “Al- New York City F.C. confi rmed his ex- manager to say but they have Stadium, has made the decision “The LA Galaxy announced today that back at my time at the club with pride at though I’m going back to England to live, England team-mate Frank Lampard, 38, been playing some very good to postpone this weekend’s midfi elder Steven Gerrard will not return what we accomplished, including two it’s certainly not the end of me in football will leave the club when his contract ex- football and deserve to be at A-league fixture between the to the club for the 2017 MLS season,” read straight playoff appearances and count- terms. I’ve got a lot of things to consider pires at the end of the year. the top,” Koeman added. Phoenix and Melbourne Victory.” a statement issued by the Galaxy. less memorable moments on the pitch.” over the coming weeks and months, and Capped 114 times by England, Gerrard “They have goals in their team The 7.8-magnitude tremor “Gerrard departs from LA following He added: “I am now looking forward I’m sure I’ll be back involved in the game. skippered home-town team Liverpool for and this is what all successful struck just after midnight the conclusion of his contract in Major to spending time with my family as I con- “I’ve got options on the pitch, off the 12 years, famously lifting the Champions sides need. Of course they can on Sunday, destroying farm League Soccer at the end of the year.” sider the next stage of my career.” pitch. I’ve got a lot of thinking to do over League trophy in 2005 after an unforget- be champions this season, they homesteads, sending glass and The 36-year-old had joined the Galaxy Gerrard scored fi ve goals in 34 appear- the next two or three weeks. I’m not ready table comeback against AC Milan. have a good chance, but they masonry toppling from high in July 2015 following his departure from ances for the Galaxy. to make a decision or fi nalise anything that He also won two FA Cups, three League are not the only contenders.” rises in Wellington and cutting Liverpool, where he starred for 17 years. While he will continue to work as a tel- I’m going to be doing moving forward. Cups and the UEFA Cup at Liverpool, but Liverpool travel to face 10th- road and rail links. Having previously been tipped to see evision pundit for BT Sport in the United “What I will say is that I’m going home he never laid his hands on the Premier placed Southampton while Two people died. out his playing days in the United States, Kingdom, his comments will be of inter- to spend some time with my family and League trophy. Everton, who are seventh in Damage to the harbourside sta- the table, host second-bottom dium included burst water pipes, Swansea City on Saturday.(Re- concrete cracking, broken win- BOTTOMLINE porting by Shravanth Vijaya- dows and “some liquefaction” kumar in Bengaluru; Editing by on the road around the venue, John O’Brien) which hosts rugby internationals and rock concerts in addition to Bumpy plane ride too Phoenix games. much for Messi “Our engineers have said that the building has performed as San Marino hit back at German had to reach for expected,” said stadium chief the sick bag on Monday as the executive Shane Harmon. plane carrying the Argentina “The damage is similar in nature team endured a bumpy ride to that incurred during the July from Buenos Aires to San Juan 2013 earthquake and we’re confi- star Mueller over criticism ahead of a World Cup qualifier. dent that it can be repaired.” AFP sponse from the perennial was free of football The Barcelona superstar and Milan whipping boys, who are bottom when you could have been snug- several of his teammates took Robben okay for of Group C with no points after gled up with your wife in your ill due to the turbulence during Dortmund despite shipping 17 goals in four games. luxury villa. the journey to the city near the injury scare an Marino have hit back San Marino coach Pierangelo “Or maybe get invited to a Andes where Argentina face at Thomas Mueller and Manzaroli told Sport Mediaset: big sponsor’s event where you’d Colombia. Bayern Munich winger Arjen accused the German “When a small country like San pocket thousands of euros.” The bout of illness will not stop Robben is expected to be fit for striker of arrogance and Marino play against the world His “10 reasons” included: Messi or any of his colleagues Saturday’s Bundesliga show- disrespectS after he said playing champions Germany, a result “Your federation (and ours) pock- from playing in what is a cru- down with Borussia Dortmund the minnows has “nothing to do like this can happen. eted money from the sale of image cial game for Argentina’s hopes after an injury suff ered playing with professional football”. “The important thing is we rights with which, in addition to of reaching the 2018 World Cup for the Netherlands turned out Germany’s 8-0 rout on Fri- should never lose respect. Peo- paying you for your trouble, help in Russia. to be less serious than feared. day of San Marino saw Joachim ple have to have self-control build facilities for the children of Edgardo Bauza’s side are sixth Robben, 32, came off at half- Loew’s men reinforce their grip post-match. In this case, that your country, football schools and in the South American qualify- time in the Netherlands’ 3-1 at the top of their World Cup didn’t happen.” safer stadiums.” ing group after 11 matches win in Luxembourg in a World qualifying group with a fi ve- Alan Gasperoni, reportedly a Speaking on Monday, the eve of following a 3-0 defeat in Brazil Cup qualifier on Sunday with point lead on Northern Ireland. San Marino press officer, went Germany’s friendly with Italy in last week. a sore thigh after scoring in Afterwards Mueller said that even further in his criticism Milan, Loew stood up for Mueller. They are a point off fourth- the first half. In a statement on playing a “team of amateurs” in and sent Mueller an angry Fa- “In San Marino, they have a place Ecuador, with the top their website, Bayern said “a the “pouring rain” left Germa- cebook rant listing 10 reasons lot of very amateur players, so I four qualifying directly and the thorough examination by FCB ny’s stars exposed to injury. why Germany’s trip to San Ma- didn’t see anything disrespect- team in fifth going into a play- club medic Dr Volker Braun “This is nothing to do with rino was useful. ful in the comments by Thomas off against a team from the revealed that the winger has professional football,” Mueller “Dear Thomas, you’re right. Mueller,” Loew told media. Oceania zone. not sustained a major injury. told German media. There’s no point in these “Players like him are used “The Dutchman will be avail- “Of course, it’s a highlight games. To you,” he wrote in to playing in very competitive Wellington A-League able for selection in the Bun- for San Marino to play the comments that went viral and leagues, they’re used to going match cancelled due to desliga meeting with Borussia world champions. But these were widely picked up in Ital- up against fellow profession- quake damage Dortmund next Saturday.” games, in such slippery condi- ian and German media. als,” he said. Jerome Boateng (knee) and tions, leave you exposed to un- “Moreover, dear Thomas, “From our point of view there Saturday’s A-League match Franck Ribery (muscle) are still necessary risks.” File picture of Bayern Munich and German football players Thomas there’s no point in you coming to was always respect for San Ma- between Wellington Phoenix not sure of a return. That sparked an angry re- Mueller reacting after a Bundesliga match. San Marino for a weekend that rino,” he added. Gulf Times Wednesday, November 16, 2016 3 CRICKET

SPOTLIGHT MOTIVATION Du Plessis urges team Six-wicket Abbott to go for Aussie jugular fi res South Africa

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis (C) shakes Australia’s captain to series win Steve Smith’s hand after the match yesterday. “I’m so happy for Abbo, he’s a guy that mostly sits on the side because of the great AFP series win as the highlight of his Hobart playing career. “I didn’t expect it to happen (so bowlers we have but every single time he gets an opportunity he puts his hand up’ quickly).To get eight wickets for outh African captain 32 runs is one of those sessions we Scoreboard Faf du Plessis yester- will always remember as a team day urged his victorious that won us a series,” he said. Australia first innings 85 Steam to keep their foot “That ranks right at the top. (S. Smith 48 not out; V. Philander 5-21) on Australia’s throat and go after To come here and do what we’ve South Africa first innings 326 a series whitewash in next week’s done is right up there certainly in (Q. de Kock 104, T. Bavuma 74; J. fi nal Adelaide Test. my career.” Hazlewood 6-89) The Proteas are on the verge “The trailblazing series success of an unprecedented Test series will act as a spur for younger play- Australia second innings clean sweep in Australia after ers watching at home,” he added. (overnight 121-2) crushing the home side by an in- “We know how hard it is. Even J. Burns c de Kock b Abbott 0 nings and 80 runs before lunch guys like Dale (Steyn) and Hash- D. Warner b Abbott 45 on the fourth day of the second im (Amla), they know how hard it U. Khawaja c de Kock b Abbott 64 Test in Hobart. is coming here. S. Smith c De Kock b Rabada 31 That clinched the South Afri- “I suppose the younger guys A. Voges c Duminy b Abbott 2 cans a third consecutive Test se- that are looking from back home C. Ferguson c Elgar b Rabada 1 ries Down Under stretching back right now can see that it’s possi- P. Nevill c Duminy b Rabada 6 to 2008, and they have the chance ble, coming here and to an extent J. Mennie lbw b Rabada 0 of cleaning up all three Tests in the dominating an Australian team, M. Starc c De Kock b Abbott 0 day-night game at Adelaide Oval which gives us as a country a lot of J. Hazlewood not out 6 from November 24. confi dence when we go and travel. N. Lyon c Philander b Abbott 4 As far as du Plessis is con- “But it’s extremely special for Extras (lb1 nb1) 2 cerned there will be no easing up us, we know that this is something Total (all out; 60.1 overs) 161 on the demoralised Australians. that we’ll remember forever as a Fall of wickets; 1-0 (Burns), 2-79 “That’s the mission for us now. team and that’s exactly what we (Warner), 3-129 (Khawaja), 4-135 (Vo- We want to do that very badly,” came here to do. We want to cre- ges), 5-140 (Ferguson), 6-150 (Nevill), he told reporters after his team ate memories as a team together. 7-150 (Mennie), 8-151 (Smith), 9-151 eff ectively beat the Australians in We’ve done it a few times now but (Starc), 10-161 (Lyon) under three days following Sun- it’s not done yet.” Bowling: Abbott 23.1-3-77-6, Philan- day’s entire wash-out. Du Plessis, said a major part of der 16-6-31-0 (1nb), Duminy 1-0-8-0, “The same with the ODIs (5-0 the Proteas success was keeping Rabada 17-5-34-4, Maharaj 3-0-10-0 series win in South Africa in Oc- the clamps on Australia’s senior Australia’s top-3 collapses tober), we won’t just rest on our players David Warner and Steve laurels and be happy with 2-1 or Smith. “If you can put a lot of Cape Town, November 2011 even 2-0. pressure on them you know that Australia crash to their worst total in “We’ve got Australia in a posi- the younger and the more in- more than a century as they collapse tion where they’re under pres- experienced players in the team to 47 all out in the second innings sure and won’t let that go. It’s won’t have the same punch as against South Africa in Cape Town. hard enough to get them in this they would have,” he said. Bowlers Peter Siddle and Nathan Lyon position so we’ll do everything “We’ve just made sure those are the only players to reach double we can to keep them there.” guys have been relatively qui- South Africa’s Kyle Abbott celebrates after taking the final wicket and defeating Australia. figures as Australia lose the first Test et in the series. Even guys like by eight wickets. “Yes, it’s Australia CONFIDENCE BOOSTER Mitchell Starc who is a fantastic Reuters “To come here and do it 2-0, is special Smith and brought Adam Voges to the and not Austria,” jokes former Aus- Du Plessis, who replaced the in- bowler. Hobart for us as a team... I’m just really proud of crease on a pair of ducks for an innings tralia leg-spinner Bryce McGain. jured AB de Villiers as skipper for “We were really good at mak- the way the team is moving forward.” that many thought would save or end his the Tests in Australia, rated the ing sure we stopped that.” It was South Africa’s third straight test test career. Trent Bridge, August 2015 eplacement paceman Kyle Ab- series win in Australia after their 2008 The number fi ve batsman was out for Australia make just 60 in 18.3 overs, bott took 6-77 as South Africa and 2012 successes. two, in two minds facing an Abbott deliv- the shortest completed first innings in IN SUPPORT completed an innings and 80- Australia face another bout of soul- ery which he parried to the slips with an history, to lose the fourth Test against run humiliation of Australia in searching, having slipped to a fi fth con- ugly, aborted pull-shot. England and surrender the coveted HobartR yesterday to seal the three-match secutive test defeat after losing the fi rst From there, the wickets tumbled, as Ashes trophy. series with a game to spare. match of the home summer for the fi rst Kagiso Rabada (4-34) joined the feast. Social media makes hay as Australia’s West Indies skipper Handed a rare opportunity with Dale time in 28 years in Perth. Debutant number six Callum Ferguson entire innings, ball by ball, can be Steyn injured, the 29-year-old Man of the Following a 10-86 collapse in Perth managed one run before trying to duck a repeated in a single, 140-character Match grabbed four wickets in the morn- and the 85 all out in the fi rst innings in Rabada delivery only for the ball to stay tweet, with room to spare. Holder banking on ing at Bellerive Oval as Australia lost eight Hobart, Australia’s batting was again low and ping off his glove to Dean Elgar Clarke announces his retirement after wickets for 40 runs and were dismissed for culpable despite the quality bowling and at third slip. the ‘Terror at Trent Bridge’. 161 before lunch on day four. the tricky conditions on an overcast day. The 21-year-old seamer then had Pe- upturn in ODI form Resurgent South Africa, who won the “We’ve got to fi nd a way to be a bit ter Nevill caught behind and trapped Joe Galle, August 2016 series-opener in Perth by 177 runs, will more resilient and spend some time out in Mennie lbw for a duck before dismiss- Australia lose nine wickets for 52 runs head into their fi rst day-night test match the middle,” said Australia captain Steve ing captain Smith. De Kock, who scored in the first innings before slumping to in Adelaide next week confi dent they can Smith, who was out nicking behind for 31. a decisive century in South Africa’s fi rst a 229-run defeat in the second Test sweep their demoralised opponents. “It wasn’t the way we planned it, cred- innings 326, took his fourth catch of the against Sri Lanka. “All our bowlers were exceptional,” it to South Africa I thought they bowled second innings when Abbott returned to The visitors are on 54 for 1 before Us- said Faf du Plessis, triumphant as stand- beautifully again this morning.” remove Mitchell Starc for a duck. man Khawaja is bowled by Dilruwan in captain for the injured AB De Villiers. Abbott, who dismissed both Australia’s The buoyant paceman wrapped up the Perera, precipitating their rapid “But I’m so happy for Abbo, he’s a guy openers on day three, triggered the collapse innings when Nathan Lyon (4) spooned a demise to 106 all out. that most of the time sits on the side be- by coaxing Usman Khawaja (64) into chas- simple catch to Vernon Philander at mid- The eventual defeat hands Sri Lanka cause of the great bowlers we have but ing a wider delivery, which the batsman on, sparking celebrations from his team an 2-0 lead, and the hosts win the every single time he gets an opportunity nicked to wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock. mates and leaving the small home crowd third Test to complete a 3-0 sweep. he puts his hand up. That ended a 50-run partnership with stunned.

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File picture of West Indies’ skipper Jason Holder (R) during practice.

IANS fi rst game today. Harare “In terms of the bowling, we Only four players safe: Lehmann need to be a lot better in the fi rst power-play and then we have to AFP Hazlewood would be sure of 20-odd Test matches. End of the aptain Jason Holder close in the last 10 overs. Those Hobart keeping their spots. day he’s got to go back and make hopes the key areas are the signifi cant areas we have “We’ve got to stop the rot, runs like everyone else,” Leh- addressed during the paid some attention to.” we’ve got to work out what the mann said. Crecent one-week camp “I think once we do that and oach Darren Lehmann best XI is,” Lehmann told re- The coach said there was a in South Africa will see the West we string some big partnerships declared only four porters. desolate mood in the dressing Indies turn the page on their (together) - in the past I think we players were sure to “Guys playing in this Test room after the defeat. dodgy One-Day International have found ourselves getting a keep their places in the match, some were disappointed “Everybody is hurting in the (ODI) form, in the tri-series here. lot of starts but not carrying on - AustralianC team after another in their performances and they rooms. I haven’t seen it as quiet The series involve the West we leave less for the middle and demoralising batting collapse get the chance to play the Shield after a loss and that’s under- Indies, Sri Lanka and hosts Zim- lower order to do,” he added. handed South Africa a crushing games to put their hand up. standable because of the per- babwe. The West Indies begin Last year, the Caribbean series victory in Hobart yester- “I thought Hazlewood was formances,” he said. their campaign against Sri Lanka side suffered a 0-3 whitewash day. great, Starc’s getting back to his “We pride ourselves on play- here today before taking on the away to the Sri Lankans and In what is becoming a regu- best and then you’ve got Smith ing for our country and we hosts on Saturday in their second Holder said they were expect- lar occurrence, the Australians and Warner. haven’t done that well enough outing, reports CMC. ing a strong challenge from folded spectacularly losing eight “Outside of that everyone’s over the last three and a half The West Indies were swept 0-3 them again, along with a tough wickets for 32 runs in just under got to make some runs and days.” by Pakistan last month and have showing from Zimbabwe. 20 overs for an innings and 80- take some wickets. It’s a really He said former greats were now lost 12 of their last 16 games in “It’s going to be tough. Obvi- run defeat to the Proteas before important four days of Shield talking with the shattered play- the last four bilateral series. ously they are two good teams. lunch on the fourth day. cricket.” ers, off ering advice and support They were good enough to reach Sri Lanka play good cricket and The batting freefall has inten- Those looking down the gun going forward. the fi nal of the tri-Series against obviously are of a higher rank sifi ed scrutiny on Steve Smith’s Australia’s captain Steven Smith (R) with teammate Adam Voges are 37-year-old batsman Adam “Mark Taylor and Shane Australia and South Africa in the than us and Zimbabwe have a embattled side after their fi fth during the fourth day in the second Test against South Africa. Voges, opener Joe Burns and Warne have been chatting to the Caribbean earlier this year, but lost point to prove,” the all-rounder straight heavy Test defeat this Callum Ferguson, who both guys one on one. Ian Healy, Tom to the Aussies in the fi nal. explained. year, all by 100 runs or more. Adelaide. in this week’s round of domestic came in for the Hobart Test. Moody, Simon Katich, Brett Lee, “I think it is a situation where “They are playing in their Lehmann, whose coaching As a consequence of the early- Sheffi eld Shield before the Test Spinner Lyon is another we’ve had a lot of the legends we need to come together as a backyard as well so they will be position is also under scrutiny fi nishing Hobart Test, all bats- squad is named on Sunday. whose place is at risk after tak- come in,” he said. team. We’ve struggled in the (familiar) with their conditions. after it was extended to 2019 men, including wicketkeeper Lehmann, who also sits on ing just two wickets at 120.50 “The young guys who are last few one-day series in terms It’s a situation where we have to only last August, said there will Peter Nevill and spinner Nathan the selection panel, said that each in the South Africa series. playing today looked up to them. of batting the 50 overs and that assess as early as possible and go “defi nitely” be changes for next Lyon, but not the three pace only Smith, David Warner and “Like everyone else, Adam’s It’s great to have them in the is one area we have addressed,” out and play some good aggres- week’s fi nal day-night Test in bowlers, will be required to play pace pair Mitchell Starc and Josh been a very good player for us for rooms and speaking to them.” Holder said ahead of his side’s sive cricket.” Gulf Times 4 Wednesday, November 16, 2016 SPORT

HORSE RACING TENNIS Thiem weathers Monfi ls storm to Bentley picks up win fi rst Tour Finals

Reuters his capitulation against Djoko- London vic when he managed only two games after winning the open- ing set. season’s fi rst win ominic Thiem stayed However, he stuck to his task very much in the mix at and got back on the front foot, the ATP World Tour Fi- keeping his nose ahead in a hard- nals with a 6-3 1-6 6-4 fought third set. victoryD over mercurial French- The dexterous Monfi ls saved man Gael Monfi ls at the O2 Are- three break points at 3-4 but na yesterday. Thiem sealed his maiden victory The Austrian weathered a at the event when Monfi ls crum- with Istibdad mid-match storm when an ap- bled at 4-5 and served three parently injured Monfi ls burst double-faults. The owner-trainer-jockey trio of Sheikh Faisal bin Hamad bin Jassim al-Thani, into life to play some audacious Monfi ls also lost to Canada’s tennis and stayed solid through Milos Raonic in his opening Ibrahim al-Malki and Eduardo Pedroza picked up three victories on the day the decider to claim his maiden match on Sunday and was hob- victory at the season-ending bling at times, putting his con- event. tinued participation in some By Sports Reporter It means the 23-year-old has doubt. won 22 of his 25 matches fea- “Try to recover because ob- turing a deciding set this year viously I’m not good enough and he will go into his fi nal Ivan to play back-to-back,” the hampion Jockey Harry Bentley Lendl group match against Mi- 30-year-old said.”Hopefully, I’ll began his campaign two weeks los Raonic on Thursday with a be much better.” into the new season but made his chance of reaching the semi- Defending champion Djokovic intentions clear when he guided fi nals. and Raonic meet later on Tues- InjaazC Stud’s Istibdad to a thrilling victo- A match that kept a large af- day with both looking to claim ry over Umm Qarn’s formidable six-year- ternoon crowd entertained was their second group victory. old TM Thunder Struck in the Al Daayen still in the balance until Mon- Serbian Djokovic, bidding to Cup, a six-furlong sprint for the Purebred fi ls crumbled in the fi nal game, reclaim the world number one Arabians, at the Qatar Racing and Eques- serving three double-faults. ranking, leads 7-0 in their previ- trian Club yesterday. “It was a close match, the ous matches and an eighth win While the two jostled for supremacy third set was very tight but luck- would guarantee his spot in the at the front of the pack, with Mubarak ily he helped me a little bit in the semi-fi nals. al-Khayarin-trained Istibdad win- last game,” Thiem, who will now Meanwhile, Jamie Murray ning by half-a-length, Hassan al-Mat- defi nitely rise above absent Ra- maintained his pursuit of the wi-schooled Mindza fi nished third 10 fael Nadal to eighth in the ATP end-of-year doubles number lengths adrift. rankings, said. one ranking with Brazilian part- The owner-trainer-jockey trio of Beaten by Novak Djokovic in ner Bruno Soares as they beat Sheikh Faisal bin Hamad bin Jassim al- his opening match, Thiem used American greats Bob and Mike Thani, Ibrahim al-Malki and Eduardo his baseline power to boss the Bryan 6-3 6-4. Pedroza picked up three victories on the fi rst set against an erratic op- Briton Murray, who with day. ponent also making his long- Soares won the Australian Open In the penultimate race of the day, awaited debut at the event. and US Open titles this year, Topsy Turvy was in a league of his own, But Thiem’s best-laid plans could emulate younger brother racing to a massive seven-length victory were shredded as the contest Andy who is in a race with Ser- over the rest of the fi eld in the Thorough- took a wild turn when Monfi ls bia’s Novak Djokovic to top the bred Handicap event for horses rated changed tactics and began to let year-end singles rankings. 71-85. Stablemate Fadak was third be- rip with some fearsome ground- French pair Nicolas Mahut hind second-placed Deborah Mountain’s Al Daayen Municipality director Mubarak Mohamed al-Kuwari poses with the winners of the Al Daayen Cup after Istibdad won the strokes. and Pierre Hugues Herbert lead Sunley Pride. 1,200m race at the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club yesterday. PICTURES: Juhaim When Monfi ls served con- the doubles standings but are First to Post was fi rst to post yesterday secutive aces to level the match under pressure after losing their for the fourth time out of six runs this Thiem supporters might have opening match at the Tour Finals year, when the three-year-old gelding feared the worst, especially after in London. won the Thoroughbred Plate event for horses rated 81-95 ahead of Mohamed Riyaz-schooled Intenser. Captain Cleo SPOTLIGHT was third in the six-furlong sprint for Bustawi Ismail. Next up, Suhail Al Uraiq, who fi n- ished second in his campaign-opener Irish ‘Ready two weeks ago, tasted his fi rst victory in two years yesterday, fi nishing three lengths ahead of Afreetah, also trained for the World’ by al-Malki, to win the Purebred Arabian Handicap event for horses rated 70 and below. launch 2023 bid Gerald Avranche guided One More Roman to his tenth career victory for AFP 445,000 plus fans will receive. Mohamed Riyaz. Pedroza was at the Dublin A mixture of four rugby and helm of second-placed Could Be, while eight Gaelic Games stadiums Lastchancelucas fi nished third under will be employed by the bid team, Saleem Golam. overnment ministers with 83,200 capacity Croke Park Alberto Sanna rode Al Wasmiya to a from north and south the home of Gaelic Games, but comfortable win in the Local Thorough- appeared together as which temporarily was used by bred Handicap event for horses rated 70 the Irish Rugby Foot- the Irish team while Lansdowne and below. Mohamed al-Attiyah-trained Gball Union offi cially launched Road was being renovated from Al Wasmiya fi nished two lengths ahead its candidacy to host the 2023 2007-2010, hosting the semi- of Tarablas while Al Moheeb was third. Rugby World Cup at Lansdowne fi nals and fi nal, if successful. Earlier in the day, Kasser, ridden by JP Road yesterday. The formal bid will be sent be- Guillambert, shed his maiden status on Supporting the ‘Ready for the fore the World Rugby council in his eighth attempt this year. Jockey Harry Bentley rides Injaaz Stud-owned Istibdad to victory in the Al Daayen Cup at the QREC yesterday. World’ slogan, Irish Prime Min- June of 2017, with a fi nal decision ister Enda Kenny and Northern made on the host announced on RESULTS Time: 1:53.10. Owner: Al Wasmiyah Farm. (Richard Mullen). Won by: 3, 3 1/2, 6. za), 2. Sunley Pride (Stephan Ladjadj), 3. Ireland deputy First Minister November 15, 2017. Race 1: 1. Kasser (JP Guillambert), 2. Trainer: Mohamed al-Attiyah. Time: 2:08.69. Owner: Sheikh Faisal bin Fadak (Saleem Golam), 4. Disco Inferno Martin McGuinness threw their Ireland will compete with Magie D’Eau (Jean Baptiste Hamel), 3. Race 3: 1. First to Post (Eduardo Hamad bin Jassim al-Thani. Trainer: (Adnan Hawa). Won by: 7, 1/2, 1 3/4. Time: weight behind the bid for the France and South Africa — both Jefool Al Jazeera (Stephan Ladjadj), Pedroza), 2. Intenser (Saleem Golam), Ibrahim al-Malki. 1:55.08. Owner: Sheikh Faisal bin Hamad sport’s quadrennial showpiece of whom have hosted it before — 4. Secret Angel (Harry Bentley). Won 3. Captain Cleo (Almotasem al-Balushi), Race 5: 1. One More Roman (Gerald bin Jassim al-Thani. Trainer: Ibrahim event which they have yet to for the honour. by: Shd, 13, 3. Time: 2:08.08. Owner: 4. Millers Wharf (Marco Monteriso). Avranche), 2. Could Be (Eduardo al-Malki. host. “This could be worth over Mohamed Ali Yousef al-Sheeb. Trainer: Won by: 1/2, 1 1/4, 1. Time: 1:11.70. Owner: Pedroza), 3. Lastchancelucas (Saleem Race 7: 1. Istibdad (Harry Bentley), 2. TM “If New Zealand can host it, EUR800M to the economy of Mohamed al-Sheeb. Sheikh Faisal bin Hamad bin Jassim al- Golam), 4. Cueca (Faleh Bughanaim). Thunder Struck (Jean Baptiste Hamel), why can’t we?” was the rhetori- Ireland, and that’s a conserva- Race 2: 1. Al Wasmiya (Alberto Sanna), Thani. Trainer: Ibrahim al-Malki. Won by: Hd, Nk, 4. Time: 1:50.36. Owner: 3. Mindza (Gerald Avranche), 4. Saab cal question posed by IRFU Chief tive estimate,” said Browne.“We 2. Tarablas (Eduardo Pedroza), 3. Al Race 4: 1. Suhail Al Uraiq (Eduardo Osama Omar al-Dhafea. Trainer: Mo- (Alberto Sanna). Won by: 1/2, 10, 1 3/4. Executive, Philip Browne, with expect 4 bn TV eyes on us, and Moheeb (Harry Bentley), 4. Al Shaqab Pedroza), 2. Afreetah (Alberto Sanna), hamed Riyaz. Time: 1:18.15. Owner: Injaaz Stud. Trainer: much of the bid focusing on the the best attended Rugby World (Pier Convertino). Won by: 2, 1 1/2, 3. 3. Hijran (Gaetan Faucon), 4. Najwa Race 6: 1. Topsy Turvy (Eduardo Pedro- Mubarak al-Khayarin. unique welcome the expected Cup ever.”

FIBA 3X3 ALL STARS SPONSORSHIP

The Qatar Basketball federation yesterday signed contracts with Arabian Automobiles Company, QVision and Al Kass for the sponsorship of the FIBA 3x3 All Stars event to be held on Friday. Arabian Automobiles Company General Manager Fawzi al-Atbah (picture on left) and QBF’s Sadoun al-Kuwari inked the contract according to which Foton will be the off icial Car Partner of the tournament. QVision, represented by its Marketing and Communications head Mohamed Anan, (first right), will provide broadcast support for the tournament. Gulf Times Wednesday, November 16, 2016 5 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Makarov, Quinn inducted to NHL Hall of Fame AFP 26 or younger to be eligible for the award. perstar out cold. Toronto Makarov, who played on eight World As a coach Quinn racked up 684 Championship teams, said the fi rst wins in 1,400 games. In 1969, Vachon time he skated on the same Russian combined with Gump Worsley to help ergei Makarov, arguably the league team as legendary forward Valeri the Montreal Canadiens win a second greatest Russian forward of his Kharlamov he was wonder-struck. consecutive Stanley Cup. He was part generation who helped blaze a He eventually formed the KLM line of three Stanley Cup winning teams in Strail for his countrymen to follow with the late Vladimir Krutov and Igor Montreal. He fi nished his career with to the NHL, was offi cially inducted into Larionov. “If someone told me I’d be 51 shutouts, 355 wins and a 2.99 goals the Hockey Hall of Fame on Monday. part of that line I would never have be- against average. The Russian speedster was induct- lieved it,” he said. Vachon, of Canada, had an emotion- ed as part of an elite class of hockey Makarov fi nished his NHL ca- al induction as he tearfully talked about sportsmen along with the late player reer with 134 goals, 384 points in 424 his late wife, Nicole, who died of brain and coach Pat Quinn, goaltender Rogie games. Makarov, who retired in 1996, cancer earlier this year. Vachon and forward Eric Lindros. joins Larionov in the Hall. Along with “I wish you would be here. Some- Longtime Chicago Blackhawks hockey defenseman Slava Fetisov, they faced times it is not fair. I love you, gal. I’ll see writer Bob Verdi and New York Rangers many struggles in leaving the Soviet you on the other side,” he said. broadcaster Sam Rosen were given the Union to play in the NHL. Lindros, of Canada, is a former fi rst media awards. Makarov thanked his fi rst NHL gen- overall draft pick who refused to play Two-time Olympic gold medal- eral manager Cliff Fletcher. “I am still for the Quebec Nordiques that year and list Makarov was a nine-time scoring grateful to Cliff ,” he said. was eventually traded to the Philadel- champion in Russia before fi nally being Quinn was an all-star player but an phia Flyers. allowed to play in the National Hockey even better coach and general manag- Lindros dominated in juniors and League. Despite being a 31-year old er. He was considered one of the great was at one time labelled as the next rookie with the Calgary Flames he still minds of the game and at the 2002 Salt Wayne Gretzky, but he failed lived up to scored 86 points in 80 games. Lake Olympics he coached Canada to those expectations. His brilliant season earned him the its fi rst gold medal in 50 years. The seven-time all-star fi nished Calder Trophy as the rookie of the year. On the ice, Quinn was known as a with 372 career goals but never scored His performance surprised those who steady defenseman and fi erce warrior. 50 goals in a season and fell short of didn’t know his game and even ruffl ed He also couldn’t be intimidated, as winning a Stanley Cup championship. some feathers in the NHL head offi ce. The evidenced by a check he once deliv- He had 865 points in 760 games before (From left) Rogatien Vachon, Sergei Makarov, Kalli Quinn representing the late Pat Quinn, and Eric Lindros take part in a Hall of Fame league then decided that players must be ered to Bobby Orr that knocked the su- injuries put an end to his career. induction event by dropping the puck between Igor Larionov and Borje Salming prior to the Legends hockey game in Toronto. (AFP) NBA Pacquiao teaser on Spurs sprint to win Mayweather rematch over struggling Heat; Clippers crush Nets

‘Miami is a team that gets after it – they play physical; that’s their style. You have to play AFP to watch the Filipino multiple Manila world champion’s Las Vegas through contact. You have to know who you’re playing against and adapt and match their comeback from ringside. Pacquiao said after the fight aggressiveness and try to hurt them with execution. They did their job and we did ours’ oxing icon Manny that he was eager to avenge Pacquiao has teased his 2015 loss to Mayweather in Bfans about a possible the richest fight in history. AFP rematch with Floyd May- “Not only for myself, but the Los Angeles Anthony Bennett (left) of the Brooklyn weather, smiling as he gamely fans of boxing want the re- Nets and Austin Rivers of Los Angeles showed off a suit with pictures match, then why not? We can Clippers battle for a loose ball during the of himself and Mayweather on easily talk about that it is not a awhi Leonard fi nished with 24 second half of their NBA game at Staples the lining. problem,” Pacquiao said. points and 12 rebounds as the San Center in Los Angeles on Monday. (AFP) Pacquiao, 37, posted on his Pacquiao’s promoter Bob Antonio Spurs won their second social media accounts a photo Arum said last week a rematch straight game at home with a 94- of himself wearing the suit with was likely. K90 victory over the Miami Heat on Monday. his picture on the right side of “I give it 75%,” Arum told Leonard had fi ve points in a key stretch the coat and Mayweather’s on ESPN. “Do I know it’s gonna in the fourth quarter as the Spurs sent the the left. happen? No. Do I know if Floyd Heat to their fi fth consecutive loss in front “Like my jacket?” Pacquiao, wants the fight? No. I know of a crowd of 18,400. The Spurs led 86-81 who was elected to the Philip- nothing more than the public with 2:22 to play after seven consecutive pines Senate in May, captioned knows at this point and what I points in a minute-and-a-half span by the the photo. observed.” Heat’s Dion Waiters. Pacquiao’s post, which had Pacquiao’s camp said, But Leonard hit a free-throw, reserve received 215,000 likes on however, that talk of a rematch guard Patty Mills added two more free- Facebook by yesterday, fuelled could wait. “Boxing is not yet in throws, and forward LaMarcus Aldridge talk of “Pacquiao-Mayweather his mind right now,” Pacquiao’s grabbed a key off ensive rebound to power 2” which began after he won media relations chief Aquiles the Spurs to a rare home victory. the World Boxing Organization Zonio said yesterday. “He’s fo- The Spurs have struggled at the AT&T welterweight title from Jessie cusing on his legislative works. Center this year, losing their fi rst three Vargas earlier this month. It will be known by January home games of November. Mayweather had taken up when will be his next fight and San Antonio made fi ve of its six free- an invitation from Pacquiao who will be his next opponent.” throw attempts in the fi nal minute. “Miami is a team that gets after it – they play physical; that’s their style,” Spurs FOCUS center Pau Gasol said. “You have to play through contact. You have to know who you’re playing against and adapt and match their aggressiveness and try to hurt them Jackson has no plans with execution. They did their job and we did ours, and we won.” Aldridge added 18 points and Gasol tal- to rejoin LA Lakers lied 12 for San Antonio, who committed a season-high 17 turnovers. Guard Tony AFP NBA crowns after guiding the Parker posted 11 points and Mills added 10 New York Michael Jordan-led Chicago as the Spurs improved to 8-3 on the season. Bulls to six crowns in the 1990s. “We lost focus in the third quarter with Lakers executive vice presi- eight turnovers – their pressure was good ew York Knicks pres- dent of basketball operations and we didn’t react to it very well,” Spurs 33 points, seven rebounds and nine assists not getting ahead of themselves. a game-high 14 rebounds. “We were limit- ident Phil Jackson, Jim Buss says if his team does coach Gregg Popovich said. “We tried to in just 34 minutes for the Rockets, who led “Seriously, 10-1 is all good and well, ing those guys to one shot. Our defense re- who has coached a not do well in the playoff s this dribble too much, the ball didn’t move by as many as 29 points. Trevor Ariza add- but you guys know and you’ve been ally has an eff ect on the off ence. If we come record 11 NBA cham- season he would step down, around, and Miami got back in the game.” ed 17 points, and Eric Gordon had 16. around the league, it’s not about right out and are not scoring or our shots are not Npionship teams, says he has no sparking much speculation The struggling Heat dropped to 2-7 Philadelphia center Joel Embiid made his now,” Paul said. “I think for us, with some falling, we can still come out and play de- plans to rejoin the Los Ange- that Jackson would dump the on the season. Miami was led by Waiters’ fi rst road start of the season and posted a of the heartache we’ve had in the posts- fense and still get stops. That’s what we les Lakers despite an opt-out Knicks for an LA return. The 27 points while center Hassan Whiteside double-double of 13 points and 10 rebounds. eason and stuff like that, we expect to did tonight.” clause in his contract. lakers are 6-5 and haven’t gone had 23 points and 17 rebounds and reserve Fellow rookie Dario Saric chipped in 11 do this, no disrespect to anybody. For us, Brooklyn played without leading scor- Jackson told ESPN in an in- past the second round since guard Tyler Johnson scored 11. points as fi ve 76ers scored in double fi gures it’s all about the process. Every night it’s er Brook Lopez, who rested in order to terview that keeping open op- winning the 2010 NBA crown “I’m just trying to be aggressive, just In New York, Kristaps Porzingis record- about getting better and building.” avoid playing back-to-back games. Bojan tions to return to the Lakers under Jackson’s coaching. trying to lead out there and pick up the en- ed his fi rst double-double of the season Paul was at his best for three quarters, Bogdanovic scored 18 points, and Sean Kil- was “never important” to him But Jackson, in his third full ergy,” Waiters said. “We were right there, with 24 points and 11 rebounds as the New fi nishing with 21 points, nine assists and patrick fi nished with 14 for the Nets, who and he likes the moves the Lak- season as Knicks team presi- but we just couldn’t fi nd ways at the end. York Knicks beat the Dallas Mavericks 93- fi ve steals. Blake Griffi n added 20 points, fell to 4-6 overall and 1-4 on the road. “The ers has made under new coach dent, says he had an opt-out We’re making mental mistakes that we 77. Carmelo Anthony also fi nished with 24 six rebounds and six assists, while J.J. Clippers are a great team, a very off ensive Luke Walton. clause in his contract only over can’t aff ord from a young team.” points as the Knicks snapped a fi ve-game Redick contributed 18 points for the Clip- threat,” Ferrell said. “They are moving forward concern there might be an NBA Miami again played without point guard losing streak to the Mavericks. pers, who won their seventh straight. in the right direction. Luke has owners-players dispute that Goran Dragic, who has missed the past two The Los Angeles Clippers have been a Jamal Crawford had 17 points off the them engaged, Brian (Shaw) is shut down the season in 2017 games after spraining his ankle on October juggernaut at home this season, which is bench for Los Angeles. Defensive specialist Results an associate head coach. They for months, a prospect now 10 against the Chicago Bulls. why they have the best record in the Na- Luc Mbah a Moute reached double fi gures INDIANA 88 ...... Orlando 69 have a core group of guys that seen as highly unlikely. The Spurs led 55-40 at halftime, with tional Basketball Association. for the second game in a row, fi nishing with NY KNICKS 93 ...... Dallas 77 will get it done. It was never “If that was going to hap- Aldridge leading the way with all 18 of his The Clippers have won by an average of 11 points and hitting all fi ve of his fi eld-goal DETROIT 104 ...... Oklahoma City 88 important to me to go back and pen in December and every- points by the half and Leonard racking up 25.2 points over their last fi ve home con- attempts. NEW ORLEANS 106 ...... 105 be a part of that, especially not body chose to walk away, there 13 before the intermission. tests, and Monday night was no diff erent as Not only can the Clippers perform of- HOUSTON 115 ...... Philadelphia 88 now. I have this job.” was no way I was going to sit in In Houston, a red-hot James Harden they manhandled the Brooklyn Nets 127-95 fensively but they have the NBA’s top-rated SAN ANTONIO 94 ...... Miami 90 Jackson’s fi ancee, Jeanie New York for three, four months fl irted with a third consecutive triple- at Staples Center arena. defensive unit. Memphis 102 ...... UTAH 96 Buss, is the Lakers team presi- when I didn’t have a job, because double and the Houston Rockets routed the But despite their success point guard “It was defi nitely our defense,” said LA CLIPPERS 127 ...... Brooklyn 95 dent and part-owner. Jack- (players) aren’t even allowed to Philadelphia 76ers 115-88. Harden tallied Chris Paul insists he and his teammates are Clippers center DeAndre Jordan, who had (Home team in CAPS) son coached the Lakers to fi ve show up to work,” Jackson said. Gulf Times 6 Wednesday, November 16, 2016 SPORT

SQUASH/ QATAR CLASSIC Marche packs off Momen, Willstrop falls to Rosner ‘It’s my first ever World Series quarter-final, and I feel this is not the end. I felt good on court today, and even if there were a few moments I felt a bit in the red, at the end I had a lot left under the foot, and that’s a great feeling to have. I cannot describe the feeling you get when you beat somebody like Tarek, someone I have always admired’

By Sports Reporter Doha

regoire Marche has been on the PSA circuit for close to a dec- ade now, but had never made it to the last eight stage of a GWorld Series tournament. The long wait ended at the Qatar Classic yesterday. And the 27-year-old Frenchman did it in emphatic fashion, by dispatching World No. 9 Tarek Momen of Egypt in an intense see-saw fi ve-game battle in a Round 2 contest. World No. 1 and top seed Mohamed Elshorbagy of Egypt, his compatriot and reigning world champion Karim Abdel Gawad, Australian Cameron Pil- ley, Simon Rosner of Germany, veteran Englishman Nick Matthew, and his compatriot Daryl Selby were the others to make the quarter-fi nals of the PSA World Series event yesterday, which is the third stage on the Road to that will culminate with the World Se- ries Finals in June next year. Back to the Marche-Momen game, World champion Karim Abdel Gawad (top left) beat fellow Egyptian Zahed Mohamed 13/11, 9/11, 11/3, 9/11, 11/5. which looked like one-way traffi c for (LEFT) Nick Matthew of England (blue) beat Scottish qualifier Alan Clyne 11/5, 11/13, 11/7, 11/9. Pictures: Nasar T K the hard-hitting Egyptian in the begin- ning, before a spirited comeback by the used in my fi rst round against (Moham- Rosner over former World No. 1 James best squash of the season I think,” said challenge from Hong Kong’s Leo Au to minutes to comfortably book his spot in Frenchman saw the tide turn in the op- ed) Abouelghar, who is, like Tarek, a su- Willstrop. It’s the fi rst time Rosner has Rosner. “I kept him behind me most of earn his place in the quarter-fi nals. the quarter-fi nals. posite direction. perb shot maker. I tried to keep them at reached the last eight stage of the Qatar the time and I was able to attack quite The defending champion, who is Momen looked sharp as he went a the back to prevent them from using their Classic. well at the front. aiming to win this tournament for a Results (Round 2) game ahead for the loss of just four magic at the front. And I feel that I man- Willstrop led the head-to-head “I played attacking squash and I think third time in succession, was forced all 1-Mohamed Elshorbagy (Egy) beat points. Marche moved up through the aged to do that rather well, even if I still record between the pair 9-2 coming that I can’t play much better than that. the way to fi ve games against Peru’s Di- Leo Au (Hkg) 3-1 (12/10, 11/13, 11/8, 11/8); gears to take the next two games, but a opened the court far too wide at times. into the fi xture, but Rosner looked de- James is in form at the moment, and to ego Elias in round one, and had to bat- 7-Simon Rosner (Ger) beat James combination of strong retrieving from “It’s my fi rst ever World Series quar- termined not to let the past bother him beat him in this form is quite special for ten down the hatches against a tena- Willstrop (Eng) 3-0 (11/7, 11/7, 11/8); Momen and some errors from the racket ter-fi nal, and I feel this is not the end. as he looked deadly from the outset and me, so I’m really glad.” cious Au but in the end the Egyptian’s Gregoire Marche (Fra) beat 6-Tarek of Marche saw the Egyptian draw level, I felt good on court today, and even if executed his game plan to perfection, Willstrop was gracious in defeat. “I class and power was just too much for Momen (Egy) 3-2 (4/11, 11/4, 11/8, 8/11, before Marche took the fi fth to close out there were a few moments I felt a bit in sending Willstrop scurrying to all four don’t think I did much wrong, but he the feisty Au from Hong Kong. 11/9); 4-Nick Matthew (Eng) beat Q-Alan a hard-fought triumph. the red, at the end I had a lot left under corners of the court. didn’t give me anything. No unforced Newly crowned world champion Clyne (Sco) 3-1 (11/5, 11/13, 11/7, 11/9); “Like I have been saying from the the foot, and that’s a great feeling to After building up an impressive two- errors. Maybe I managed to get him un- Gawad was given a big scare by fellow Daryl Selby (Eng) beat Q-Adrian Waller start of the season, I am now able to use have. I cannot describe the feeling you game lead, the German was pushed hard der pressure in the end, forced one out of Egyptian Zahed Mohamed before pre- (Eng) 3-0 (11/7, 11/5, 11/9); 3-Karim Abdel my speed to attack, and not only to de- get when you beat somebody like Tarek, by Willstrop in the third. But the tall him and thought maybe I had a little tiny vailing in fi ve tough games. Gawad (Egy) beat Zahed Mohamed fend,” said Marche after the 76-minute someone I have always admired.” German held fi rm to seal only his third chance, but then he played that ridicu- Hard-hitting Australian Cameron (Egy) 3-2 (13/11, 9/11, 11/3, 9/11, 11/5); contest. The other talking point of the day win over the Englishman in 12 attempts. lous lucky shot. He was too good today.” Pilley bulldozed his way past Mexican 8-Cameron Pilley (Aus) beat Cesar “It was a bit like the same strategy I was the stunning win of German Simon “I think I played my best squash, my ElShorbagy had to overcome a strong challenger Cesar Salazar 3-0 in just 39 Salazar (Mex) 3-0 (11/2, 11/4, 11/4)

WORLD MILITARY SHOOTING CHAMPIONSHIP Qatar men clinch silver medal in Team Trap, women take bronze in 50m Rifl e 60 Prone By Sports Reporter Doha

atar opened its account at the 49th CISM World Military Shooting Championship by clinching a silver Qand bronze in the team events at the Losail Shooting Range yesterday. Qatar fi nished second in the men’s team event of Trap, behind China, while Qatar women’s team took the bronze in the 50m Ri- fl e 60 Prone. In the men’s Team Trap, China took the gold with Italy taking bronze. Democratic People’s Republic of Korea took the gold ahead of China and hosts Qatar in the women’s event. In the 50m Rifl e 60 Prone women’s team event, China took fi rst place ahead of Ger- many. Both teams fi nished with the same total of points but China managed to take the gold thanks to a better result in the last series. Two Olympic medallists and two Olympic records-holders will compete in the CISM Action from the CISM World Military Shooting Championship yesterday. Pictures: Thaju Dheen event this year — Sylwia Bogacka (Poland), silver medallist at the London 2012 Olympic Games in the 10m Air Rifl e event; Jean Quiq- uampoix (France), silver medallist in the 25m Rapid Fire Pistol at the Rio 2016 Games; Alex- ey Klimov (Russia), Olympic record holder at the London 2012 Games (592) in the 25m Rapid Fire Pistol; and Low Andreas (Germany), Ol- ympic record holder at the Rio 2016 (140) in men’s Double Trap. Meanwhile, the Anti-Doping Committee, headed by Dr Fatma Khamis al-Malki, had to gather to talk about the situation and check if they would have enough tests until the end of the championships. “Indeed, every new world record holder has to be tested for drugs. The Anti-Doping Committee is working in the shadow, but I really want to thank them for their support and hard work,” said CISM’s Colonel Bruno Wolfensberger. Qatar is hosting participants from 50 coun- tries worldwide. Some 720 male and female shooters will take part in the championship that ends on November 19. This is the second time Qatar is hosting a major military shooting championship. In 2013, Qatar Armed Forces in collaboration with CSIM had hosted the Second CISM In- ternational Shotgun Championship at the Lo- sail Shooting Complex. Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) delegates visit the Losail Shooting Range yesterday. Gulf Times Wednesday, November 16, 2016 7 SPORT

ANOC Award winners FOCUS

“I didn’t get “I won a gold to see around medal at the Bosses urge Doha, but next Beijing year I will be Olympics and coming back for then won a gold the WTA tennis in the same tournament 400m event at Brazil to send and will make the Rio de Ja- sure that I don’t neiro. I repeated miss the outings. the performance Qatar has had a aft er nine years. long history of I am glad that Hickey home hosting premier ANOC has sporting events recognised me and considering for my fi ne AFP from the Association of National Ol- that it defi nitely performance.” Doha ympic Committees (ANOC) general as- is the right place sembly in Doha on Tuesday but several to be for an ath- offi cials mentioned his case. lete. And for me lympic bosses made an im- “Patrick Hickey is still detained the WTA Open passioned plea to Brazilian in Brazil and not allowed to leave the is certainly the authorities yesterday to al- country,” said Janez Kocijancic, who is event to be.” low Irish Olympic Commit- currently serving as acting president of teeO (IOC) president Patrick Hickey to the European Olympic Committee. Puerto Rico’s Monica Puig, who won the tennis singles gold at Rio, won the South African runner Wayde van Niekerk, winner of the men’s 400m event at return home while awaiting trial over “He was charged with criminal of- ANOC Award: Best individual female athlete. Rio, won the ANOC Award: Best individual male athlete. an alleged ticketing scam. fences and we do not think he commit- Hickey, who is also the head of the ted them. European Olympic Committee, was “He is 71 and has heart problems. We “This award “Winning this arrested by Brazilian police during the hope he will be allowed home to pre- has been given award is Rio Olympics in August as part of a raid pare to prove his innocence. by ANOC and overwhelming. into an illegal ticket sales scheme. “We do not ask for mercy but for a that defi nitely It goes on to He denies any wrongdoing but has human approach.” means a lot to prove that the been formally charged, along with nine The ANOC president, Sheikh Ahmad me as it is Great Britain others, with ticket-touting, ambush al-Fahad al-Ahmed al-Sabah, referred a direct recog- hockey team marketing, theft, tax evasion, money- to Hickey as our “dear VP” while the nition from an is being laundering and criminal association. IOC president , a lawyer Olympic body. recognised He has stepped down from both posts himself, also touched on the subject of I was at Torch worldwide. And while the investigation continues. Hickey’s case in his keynote address, today and I that is the by The trial date has still not been set but chose his words carefully. went right up far the biggest but could take up to two years to be “We have to put the system into place to the top of achievement for heard, according to his lawyers. for prevention, and, if that fails, for the tower and our team.” The 71-year-old Hickey remains un- sanctioning and appropriate measures. was able to see der house arrest in Brazil but has had We should never claim the sports world the entire his passport confi scated and has been is immune. city. I was banned from leaving the country. “Patrick Hickey is still in Brazil con- amazed by the His lawyers and Olympic offi cials cerning the sale of tickets,” Bach said. development have asked that he be allowed to return “We have to say, clearly, that as long as that Qatar is home to Ireland until the case is heard. there is no result, our colleague enjoys doing.” Hickey was a noticeable absentee the presumption of innocence.”

Osea Kolinisau of gold medal-winning Fiji Rugby 7s team poses with the Hollie Webb of the UK, part of the gold medal-winning field hockey team, ANOC Award: Best male team poses with the ANOC Award: Best female team.

“This award isn’t “It is only during just important diffi cult and for me, but is demanding also important times that one for everyone in becomes a Brazil, who have refugee. I supported me am glad that in my struggle through ANOC towards the gold I would be able medal. It is an to push home award for every the point that kid back home everyone needs in Brazil, who a home.” want to strive for excellence in sports. It’s more than an award, it is a recognition, an honour.”

Rafaela Lopes Silva, winner of women’s judo (-57 kg) gold, was adjudged as Kenyan ldittlong-distance track and road runner Tegla Loroupe, who was part the Most Inspirational Performance. of the Refugee Olympic Team, won the Inspiring hope through Sport Award.

“I won gold “Singapore won medals for Great its fi rst medal Britain at two way back in Olympics and 1960 at the now getting an Rome Olympics. award for the And it wasn’t Best National until 2008 at the Olympic Beijing Olympics No Doubts about Anti-Doping Lab Qatar: Committee as a that we won our WADA deputy director general Chairman of the second medal. It British Olympic took us 48 years. of National Olympic Committees Association is But, in London QNA Doha (ANOC), Koehler said there is no sign defi nitely an Games we won of cheating or manipulation against honour as it is two bronze and Anti-Doping Lab Qatar, but there are recognition of then followed it eputy director general of the measures to be implemented by the the hard work up with a gold World Anti-Doping Agency Lab in sampling and analysis in order that I have put in Rio. So this D(WADA) Robert Koehler said to meet international standards. in.” defi nitely is a that the WADA does not have any The WADA Deputy director general recognition of doubts about Anti-Doping Lab Qatar, expressed his full confidence that our improving adding that it is only a matter of Anti-Doping Lab Qatar’s off icials will performance.” certain steps to be taken in order to complete the measures and that lift the suspension. the suspension taken by the WADA British Olympic Association chairman Sebastian Coe accepted the award for Singapore National Olympic Council secretary general Christopher Chan In a statement on the sidelines of against them for four months will be the Best National Olympic Committee. poses with the Breakthrough NOC Award. the meetings of the Association lifted immediately.

BOTTOMLINE Budapest proposes low-risk, compact Olympics

he Budapest 2024 Olympic recent times. A vibrant and festive city atmos- Games, creating new possibilities for sporting capitals and has been awarded reliable travel times to Games venues Games bid team yesterday un- The advantages of the Budapest 2024 phere and youth culture with a deep the Olympic Movement that will rein- the title of European City of Sport in in a compactly confi gured and con- veiled a strong and distinctive Bid include: love of sport in a nation where Olympic force the IOC’s modern agenda.” 2019. According to recent research, Bu- nected mid-sized city. All of Budapest’s Tcase for Budapest – and other A low-risk fi nancial and delivery athletes are heroes, and venues will be Budapest will engage the host city, dapest is recognised as one of the fast- 7 venue clusters are within a 7-kilome- mid-sized global capital cities – to host strategy, based on a proven capacity to full of spectators, creating the biggest nation and, for the fi rst time, an entire est rising global cities for major sport tre radius of the city centre. On aver- the world’s greatest sporting event, the deliver major infrastructure and ma- open air city festival in the world. new region of Europe. events, ranking Budapest in second age, athletes will be able to access their Olympic and Paralympic Games. jor events on time and within budget. A series of stunning backdrops One fundamental benefi t of the Bu- place in the Future Sports Cities Index event in 12 minutes, a truly remarkable Presenting details of the Budapest Most of the Olympic venues and sup- comprising the River Danube and other dapest bid presented in the Doha pres- 2017-2023 and seventh place in the opportunity that can only be achieved bid to a gathering of the world’s Na- port infrastructure are already in place. World Heritage Sites. entation, is Budapest 2024’s ability to current top sport cities of the world. in a compact bid such as Budapest’s. tional Olympic Committees and Ol- In the last 7 years more development Secure and safe environment. optimise and utilise the venues after In his address to the Association It will be refreshingly easy in Budapest ympic leaders in Doha, the Budapest has taken place in Budapest than will Bringing the Olympic Games to the Games. At a time when legacy of of National Olympic Committees for the Olympic family, spectators and 2024 delegation outlined a number of be needed in the seven years up to the Budapest will leave a lasting legacy for an Olympic Games is vital to the IOC, (ANOC), Budapest 2024 Bid leader the media to attend multiple events in convincing points as to why Budapest Games in 2024. Only 3 additional ven- the Olympic Movement, bringing the Budapest provides a credible option of Balázs Fürjes pledged that an Olympic a day. is the “right sized city at the right time” ues are needed for the 2024 Olympic Olympic Games to the nations of cen- lasting improvements to the city and Games in Budapest, Hungary, in Cen- “The experience will be truly new to stage the Olympic Games in 2024. Games in Budapest. tral Europe for the fi rst time; harness- nation as a whole. As Fürjes explains, tral Europe, would be “open, safe and and unique. The whole city as one sin- These points included the many Extremely short travel times and ing the power of the Games and build- “the legacy for each of our venues is strong”. gle connected Olympic Park. A genuine and various advantages of hosting the distances to sports settings and accom- ing on new foundations of freedom carefully considered in the context of “Today, our region off ers fi nancial compact games experience built into Olympic Games in mid-sized global modation, including the Olympic Vil- and optimism in Budapest and beyond comprehensive business plans that resilience and stability, containing the the fabric of the city and accessible to cities like Budapest, which off er new lage. Modern venues closely connected in Central Europe – strengthening continue to be honed as we progress.” most reliable economies in the Euro- all. A city wide celebration of sport horizons, opportunities and vitality to to transport services that will bring role and relevance of Olympic sport in Budapest would leave a powerful leg- pean Union – among them Hungary. like.” Said Attila Mizsér, Director of the Olympic Movement. The Budapest athletes, spectators, local communities modern society. acy for sport, including new facilities Budapest is on the rise and ready to de- Sports and Venues. 2024 delegation described their ap- and international visitors closer than Budapest 2024 Bid leader Fürjes for local and regional athletes of Cen- liver – we are the right city at the right Deputy Mayor of Budapest, Alexandra proach as “ the real alternative” to the ever to Olympic venues and celebra- commented: “The Agenda 2020 re- tral Europe for the fi rst time – this will time,” Fürjes said. Szalay-Bobrovniczky, described her city larger capitals and mega cities that have tions with an average travel time of just forms make it possible for a new gen- include a Velodrome. Budapest is one The Budapest 2024 delegation high- as an expression of “their confi dence, hosted the Summer Olympic Games in 12 minutes. eration of mid-sized cities to host the of the world’s fastest growing global lighted the advantages of quick and their identity and their vitality”.

Wednesday, November 16, 2016 GULF TIMES SPORT

TOP OF THE LINE PM honours sports fi gures for their contribution to Olympic movement QNA Doha

E the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Kha- lifa al-Thani honoured four Hsports fi gures, who have made remark- able eff orts for enhancing the interna- tional Olympic movement. The Prime Minister gave each of them the Olympic Order of Merit. The honorees are Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad al-Khalifah, representa- tive of the King of Bahrain to Char- ity and Youth Aff airs, head of the Su- preme Council for Youth and Sports, and president of the Bahrain Olympic Committee; Mohamed Raouraoua, president of the Algerian Football Fed- eration; Gagik Tsarukyan, president of the Armenian Olympic Committee; and Leri K from Georgia, an Olympic champion in freestyle wrestling and a member of Parliament who has con- tributed to supporting the Olympic movement in his country through his Prime Minister HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani, QOC president HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, IOC president Thomas Bach and ANOC president Sheikh Ahmad al-Fahad al-Ahmed al-Sabah career. with the honorees. PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT QOC committed to We represent openness, spreading Olympic diversity, inclusiveness, spirit: Sheikh Joaan says sprint star Felix LA-born athlete also urged NOCs not to worry about US presidential election results

By Yash Mudgal was part of the 4x100m relay team that Doha smashed a 27-year-old world record en route to gold at London 2012. Speaking on the occasion, Wasserman print star Allyson Felix yesterday said, “I think the Olympics are at its best urged Olympic offi cials not to when they rise above politics. worry about the changing politi- “The Olympic movement highlights cal landscape in the United States, the wonderful diversity and unity, whileS considering Los Angeles’ bid for bringing together more countries than 2024 Olympic Games. the United Nations. LA 2024 is hon- LA-born Felix, a six-time Olympic oured, humbled and excited to be a part gold medallist, said post the presidential of it. We are here following voter ap- elections, some may question America’s proval of a $120bn transit upgrade and QOC president HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani commitment to its founding principles. conservation legislation, which will en- “Please don’t doubt us. We represent sure the National Olympic Committees QNA around the world over the course openness, diversity and inclusiveness, and their athletes experience the very Doha of this week. and it is our greatest strength,” Felix said best of the City of Angels – a Games- Sheikh Joaan also expressed during the 20-minute offi cial candidate ready city that is constantly imagining his delight at meeting repre- city presentation of Los Angeles. ‘What’s Next?” atar Olympic Commit- sentatives of diff erent NOCs in There have been murmurs that Mayor Eric Garcetti added: “We be- tee (QOC) president Qatar to work on determining Trump’s foreign policy plans could harm The Los Angeles 2024 bid team at the ANOC General Assembly. (Twitter/LA2024) lieve our campaign isn’t just about the HE Sheikh Joaan bin mechanisms to support one an- the US city’s standing with some of the Games in our city in 2024. We believe Hamad al-Thani wel- other, and present initiatives and 205 National Olympic Committees, who proud to be representing the city I love. for a better life,” the most decorated fe- this bid is about ensuring that the Games comedQ the delegations partici- contributions that helps the Ol- represent a wide range of cultural and re- But I am also here to represent the voice male track-and-fi eld athlete in Olympic are sustainable and relevant in every year pating in the annual general as- ympic movement forward. ligious backgrounds. of the athletes – not just from the US, but history said. beyond 2024 as well. This bid isn’t only sembly of the Association of the He added that this year’s gen- The LA 2024 team outlined its plan for those from around the world,” Felix told “We are also a nation with individuals about LA’s future – it’s about our col- National Olympic Committees eral assembly was also a good a low-risk, high-tech and sustainable new Gulf Times just before her address. like me, descendants of people who came lective future. We are planning a great (ANOC), which began yesterday occasion to celebrate ANOC’s Games for a new era that will elevate the ex- “I owe so much in my development as to America, not of their own free will but Games in Los Angeles – make no mistake morning at Sheraton Doha. achievements and honour the perience of the NOCs and their teams. an athlete to the US Olympic Commit- against it,” she said. – but we’re also laying the ground work Sheikh Joaan said in a speech champions of the 2016 Rio Ol- Yesterday’s presentation was one tee, and the same is true for Olympians The last Olympics held in LA were in along with you for future Games. that QOC was honoured to pro- ympics, at the ANOC Gala of three offi cial presentations to IOC worldwide. The ANOC General Assem- 1984 and since then a lot has changed in “We know that LA 2024 must not only vide support to ANOC in hosting Awards Ceremony. He expressed members, with the second presenta- bly, and the ANOC Awards in particular, the city, said Felix. deliver great Games, they must also de- the general assembly this year, hope that the participants will tion scheduled for July 2017 in Lausanne, are great events and give us a wonder- “We’re not a nation that clings to our liver transformative Games. And we know which is important for the Ol- enjoy getting to know Qatar’s Switzerland, and the fi nal presentation in ful opportunity to learn about and hon- past, no matter how glorious – or how that we can help transform the Games ympic movement globally. unique culture during the gala. September 2017 in Lima, Peru. our the remarkable work of the world’s painful. Americans rush toward the future.” because we are a transformative city that He said that the commit- Sheikh Joaan concluded his The LA 2024 team is led by chairman NOCs,” the LA 2024 Athletes’ Advisory Felix’s six Olympic gold medals and refl ects creativity and innovation.” tee was keen on spreading the speech by expressing hope that Casey Wasserman, CEO Gene Sykes and Commission member said. three silver medals make her the most This is the third United States bid since Olympic spirit in daily habits, the general assembly’s agenda vice-chair and four-time Olympic cham- Felix said Los Angeles needed the decorated female track-and-fi eld athlete hosting the Centennial Olympic Games stressing that sports has become will contribute to strengthening pion swimmer Janet Evans. Games “now more than ever” to help in Olympic history. She won gold in the in 1996 in Atlanta, previously losing in an integral part of people’s lives. ties between national Olympic “I was born and raised in Los Angeles, make the US better. 4x100m and 4x400m relay events at Rio 2012 and 2016. He also expressed the commit- committees and enriching the in the same neighbourhood as the LA “We are a nation of people whose de- 2016, as well as a silver in the 400m. Felix The IOC will choose the winning bid at tee’s delight that it will partner debate that wants a better future Memorial Coliseum, and I’m incredibly scendants came from all over the world is also a nine-time World Champion and its session in Lima next September. and celebrate with NOCs from for the Olympic movement.

BOTTOMLINE Paris presents Games vision fi lled with ‘Passion + Purpose’

By Sports Reporter tion for NOCs and NPCs’ by Denis and Paralympic sport has a vibrant com- “Our vision is to share the passion of Doha Masseglia, French NOC President – a munity in our country. Since 2010, we the Games… And to share the purpose detailed set of proposals that highlights have staged more than 40 sold out, inter- of Olympism… To ensure that the Ol- the tailored ‘concierge service’ the city national events in Olympic sports. ympic Movement fully connects with he Paris 2024 Olympic and Par- will off er teams of athletes, coaches “The result is a guarantee that Paris this new, sharing generation.” alympic Games Bid Committee and offi cials before, during and after 2024 will be successful Games, which Expressing the importance of the today set out its compelling vi- the Games. These 18 key pledges have deliver… A unique experience… Mag- power of sport to create a better world, sion and Games concept at the been designed, in the spirit of Olympic nifi cent TV images… And an incredible the Mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, said: TXXI Association of National Olympic Agenda 2020, to create the optimum celebration, for everyone, in the very “The Olympic Games bring humanity Committees (ANOC) General Assem- conditions for great athlete perform- heart of Paris. together like no other event on earth. bly in Doha. ances and make Paris 2024 the friendli- “To align with Agenda 2020, all of You are all important actors in meeting Paris 2024 delivered its presenta- est Games ever for NOCs and NPCs. this must be just the start… Because the challenges that face the world’s fu- tion to National Olympic Committees Masseglia, speaking to the global the Games must also have a purpose: ture – and you have demonstrated this (NOCs) and broader Olympic Family gathering of NOCs, said: “The presen- to leave a real and lasting legacy… Paris clearly, in the eyes of the world, with with bid leaders and French sporting tation of Paris 2024 is about a bid in- 2024 will deliver both physical legacy… Agenda 2020. heroes taking to the stage to express the spired by Olympic values, led by sport and social legacy. “Respecting the planet, fi ghting for city’s unique message – outlining how and athletes and powered by the collec- “Today, we live in a challenging era development, creating opportunities a Games in Paris would be fi lled with tive energy and will of France’s national for sport, even for the world. So, more for young people, supporting gender ‘Passion + Purpose’ through a wonder- sports movement. than ever, we have a responsibility to equality through sport and especially ful celebration of sport and Olympism “It is this energy that we will put at deliver Games with real, long-term through the Games, which unite hu- shared with the world. your service with Paris 2024, which will purpose… Which is why we have al- mankind in a way that nothing else can. Furthermore, ‘Passion + Purpose’ allow us to respond to your needs and ready started to deliver. “Paris is a confi dent city, which is articulates Paris 2024’s promise to host those of your athletes, and which today “We are developing new ways of not afraid to invent the future. Our vi- spectacular Games set in the heart of sees us launch the Paris 2024 ‘NOC and thinking about the future of Olymp- sion for 2024 is optimistic, inclusive, a stunning global city that will create NPC Declaration’. It sets out the out- NPCs will be published soon at www. pose must remain central to our Move- ism… Our belief in sharing is in tune joyful – but also clear-sighted and unforgettable athlete and spectator ex- standing service you will receive… And paris2024.org ment for its future success. And why with the way young people all over the determined. In Paris in 2024 we will periences, ensure the global promotion together, in partnership with you, we Highlighting the theme of ‘Passion Paris 2024 is built on those two key pil- world are living their lives today. This swim in the River Seine. We will travel of Olympism and leaves real and lasting want to develop these ideas further and + Purpose’, Paris 2024 Co-Chairman, lars: passion and purpose. engagement... these partnerships… in driverless vehicles. We will celebrate legacies. so make 2024 an exceptional experi- IOC Member and three-time Olympic “I hope there can be no question about this thinking… all of them, serve one the Games on the Champs Elysees, with Key to the Paris 2024 presentation ence for each of you.” Gold Medallist, , said: French passion, especially for sport. Ol- goal: To make the Olympic Movement the Eiff el Tower and all along the Seine was the launch of the bid’s ‘Declara- The full set of pledges to NOCs and “I’m convinced that passion and pur- ympism is in our DNA. Every Olympic stronger… To make our family stronger. from the Grand Palais to Saint Denis.”