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Wednesday, May 23, 2018 FOOTBALL Ramadan 7, 1439 AH Ronaldo praises GULF TIMES Liverpool but says Madrid are better SPORT Page 3 FOCUS ‘Amir Cup win in Khalifa stadium crowning glory of Besides two Amir Cups, Duhail’s Nam Tae-hee has won five my career in Qatar’ league titles in his ‘second home’

By Nam Tae-hee World Cup was when my country feeling that my second home could hosted Asia’s fi rst tournament when fi ttingly be the stage where I fulfi l my t is such an inde- I was 10. dream of playing a World Cup. scribable feeling I remember celebrating with my I have represented my country on to win the 2018 friends when Park Ji-sung scored a the big international stage before – I Amir Cup at the great goal against Portugal’s golden was part of the Korea Republic team IKhalifa International generation which took Korea Republic which won bronze in the 2012 London Stadium, the venue to the round of 16 as group winners. Olympics and I started in Asia’s big- of the 2022 FIFA gest fi xture, the 2015 AFC Asian Cup World Cup. Winning the fi nal there in the fi nal, which ended in a heart-breaking The stadium is world class – presence of His Highness the defeat in extra time. smooth pitch, majestic stands, Amir, the Honourable FIFA But the FIFA World Cup is the Holy beautiful arch and incredibly effi cient President and in front of 45,000 Grail for all professional footballers, open-air cooling system because of spectators is the stuff of any and 2022 will be my last chance to which the temperature inside the footballer’s dreams realise my dream. stadium dropped by 20 degrees centi- But even if I were to miss out on the grade if not more. Winning the Amir Cup in a 2022 FIFA grandest stage of them all as a player, I Winning the fi nal there in the pres- World Cup stadium has been such a will still be in Qatar as a fan during the ence of His Highness the Amir, the proud and joyous experience that I have country’s date with history. Honourable FIFA President and in temporarily forgotten the pain of com- People of Qatar have given me love, front of 45,000 spectators is the stuff ing to know, only earlier in the same respect and adulation. I will remem- of any footballer’s dreams. week, that I will miss a second succes- ber all this with gratitude. The icing on the cake was initiating sive FIFA World Cup since I made my Now Qatar has also given me the the build-up play which culminated senior national team debut. treasured feeling of winning silver- in my club Al Duhail’s winning goal. Qatar, the host nation of Asia’s ware in a World Cup stadium. Association with the FIFA World second FIFA World Cup, has given me after I had played my fi rst game I won fi ve league titles and won the memories but the crowning glory will Thank you Qatar. Cup is the ultimate goal for any foot- so many on and off fi eld memories, for the club, I earned the distinc- Amir Cup once before in 2016. I was be the 2018 Amir Cup win at Khalifa baller and I am no diff erent. which have kept me motivated as a tion of becoming the player to score voted the country’s Best Player at the Stadium. (As told to Abilash Nalapat, Before the evening of May 19, 2018, professional footballer. my club’s fi rst ever goal in an Asian QFA Awards 2017. I will be 31 when Qatar hosts the Supreme Committee for my strongest connection with a FIFA In March 2012, a couple of months competition. I will always cherish all these World Cup and deep inside I have a Delivery & Legacy) Gulf Times 2 Wednesday, May 23, 2018 FOOTBALL

PREMIER LEAGUE Wind of change at Arsenal blows in another left -fi eld appointment Former PSG and Sevilla manager set to be named as new Arsenal manager

By Amy Lawrence towards their holy Champions League The Guardian grail. It didn’t quite work out on that front but the current scene at Arsenal, and what is needed, has more of a nod ell, that took a very sud- towards the calibre of work Emery did den left turn. In keeping in Spain. with the Arsenal tradition In the post-Wenger world the next of appointing unexpect- appointment was always going to feel Wed managers, it seems the board have pivotal. Loaded. For the triumvirate put lurched from favouring a 36-year-old together by the chief executive, Ivan former player who had never managed Gazidis, to make the key footballing a game to a totally new face in the frame decisions, this process has been a test which provoked a stunned Ian Wright, for a new team behind the team. Gazidis former Arsenal striker, to query: has been working with Raúl Sanllehí “Where’s Unai Emery come from?” As (head of football relations) and Sven a reaction it is not quite in the realms of Mislintat (head of recruitment) for only Arsène Who? but it captures the mood a few months and they have knocked of curious bewilderment. their heads together and come up with A quick fl ick through the club’s his- Emery. tory books demonstrates that unex- He is another football obsessive, a pected does not always mean bad. In man who references “emotion” and the 1930s George Allison moved from “responsibility” when he thinks about the boardroom to the dugout and won his role – only this one has a diff erent Unai Emery won a hat-trick the league. Bertie Mee had been the character to his predecessor. Arsenal’s of Europa League titles with club’s physiotherapist and engineered players will return to London Colney Sevilla. (Reuters) the double win in 1971. George Graham for the new season to fi nd an environ- came from Millwall in English foot- ment with cranked-up demands and ball’s second tier and collected a clus- expectations. ter of trophies between 1987 and 1994. Emery’s nature is to be meticulous, Arsène Wenger famously arrived from tactically smart, with a disciplinarian Nagoya Grampus 8 in Japan and, ac- streak. He is minded to push his play- cording to the sceptical players, looked ers. After a long time listening to the more like a geography teacher than a same manager, Arsenal’s squad will football manager. soon learn that there is no room for any The surprise here is that all the signs complacency, for allowing themselves were that Arsenal were looking else- to go through any motions. They can where. Emery’s background is hardly so also expect to be drilled into a more in- arcane to make this truly shocking. He tense and resilient style. The force of brings his own brand of clout and expe- an attitude shock, exactly what they rience. Repeated third placed fi nishes need, will be felt. “Either we all work at Valencia, making his teams the best or let’s just burst the ball,” he says. That of the rest behind Barcelona and Real philosophy is a bit more George Gra- Having been around several blocks four seasons at Valencia his longest ers, Emery also has to develop some vying for a Champions League fi nish. Madrid, were eye-catching. ham than Arsene Wenger but given the (Arsenal would represent a seventh job run in any one club, so that’s another mutual trust with Gazidis, Sanllehi and The process of deciding who to target, A hat-trick of Europa League vic- requirement to shake up the comfort in a fourth diff erent country) Emery change of pace Arsenal will have to get Mislintat. There is adjustment to be and who is expendable, is on the agenda tories with Sevilla enhanced his status zone, to instil some defensive organisa- off ers that weight of experience Mikel used to. It is all about building new re- done on the squad, even with the rela- during this shortened World Cup sum- enough for Paris Saint-Germain to give tion, at this moment in time it’s no bad Arteta didn’t have. But his career has lationships now, as quickly as possible. tively limited funds available for a club mer window. Best get to work, rather him that chance to try to take the team thing. not pointed to long-term spells, with As well as getting to know his new play- hoping to compete with other teams than bursting the ball.

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Inter striker Icardi left out of Pellegrini targets attacking Argentina World Cup squad revolution at West Ham AFP delight the fans,” Pellegrini said. ushering in a new era of success AFP London “I always play attacking football at the London Stadium. and we must try to reach impor- “He is one of the world’s most tant targets in the season.” respected football coaches and anuel Pellegrini has Angry about West Ham’s we look forward to working with nter Milan striker Mauro Icardi, the promised to unleash move from their historic Upton him,” Sullivan said. “It was im- joint-leading scorer in Italy this season, an attacking revolu- Park stadium to the London Sta- portant that we appointed some- was a notable omission from Argen- tion at West Ham af- dium two years ago, supporters one with knowledge and experi- tina’s 23-man World Cup squad named Mter the Chilean was named as the launched furious protests against ence of the , who Iby coach on Monday. Icardi Premier League club’s new man- co-owners David Gold and David already has an understanding — scored his 29th goal of the season on ager yesterday. Former Man- Sullivan during a home defeat not only of the teams and play- Sunday as Inter pipped Lazio to a Champi- chester City boss Pellegrini left against Burnley, invading the ers we face — but of West Ham ons League place, but he was one of 12 play- his role with Hebei China For- pitch and throwing missiles at United and our ambitions. ers cut from a provisional 35-man squad re- tune over the weekend and fl ew the directors’ box. “Manuel brings a reputation vealed last week. to London to seal his return to Pellegrini hopes he can unify for attacking football and getting The 25-year-old made his Argentina de- the English top-fl ight on a three- the club by signing players who the best out of his players. We but in October 2013 but spent four years in year contract. can implement his preferred believe he will attract new talent international exile before he was recalled The Hammers opted not brand of football. “I think West to the London Stadium as well as last September for the fi nal four World Cup to keep David Moyes after his Ham has a very good team. I know improving the current squad.” qualifi ers. Two-time champions Argentina short-term contract ended fol- all of the players and I saw most Pellegrini coached at Villar- reached the fi nal in Brazil in 2014, losing to lowing the fi nal game of a Pre- of the games that they played last real, Real Madrid and Malaga in Germany 1-0 after extra time, and will again mier League season which saw season,” Pellegrini said. Spain. In his lone season at Ma- look to Barcelona superstar West Ham pull away from the “So I am sure that, with the drid in 2009-10, Pellegrini failed for inspiration in what may well be his last relegation zone and fi nish 13th players we have in this moment to win a trophy and was sacked World Cup. under the Scot. Pellegrini led in the squad, and bringing maybe to make way for Jose Mourinho’s The fi ve-time Ballon d’Or recipient heads City to the Premier League title another four or fi ve players in, we arrival after fi nishing second to a potent attacking line-up that includes Ju- in 2014, reached the Champions are going to have a strong team. Barcelona in . ventus pair and Gonzalo Hi- League semi-fi nals in 2016 and I am excited about this project. Pellegrini was in charge when guain, as well as Manchester City’s Sergio also won two League Cups dur- I know that this league is very Real signed Cristiano Ronaldo, Aguero. “The goal is to have a great World ing his three-year spell in Man- good and it’s not easy to do it. But Karim Benzema and Xabi Alonso, Cup. We’re going to be very competitive. chester. Winning the title with I think that working all together but he blamed the club’s obses- We’re going to bank on an attacking game,” West Ham might be a bridge too with the owners, the technical sion with superstars for stopping Sampaoli told a press conference at the na- far, but the 64-year-old has set staff and the fans, we have an him building a cohesive team. He tional team’s training base in Ezeiza, near his sights on producing an en- important power and can think left City in June 2016, to be suc- Buenos Aires. tertaining team capable of excit- about reaching important targets ceeded by Pep Guardiola, but was Argentina needed a hat-trick from Messi ing fans frustrated by their club’s for the season.” soon back in work at Hebei. in their fi nal qualifi er, a 3-1 victory away to struggles in recent years. Sullivan hailed Pellegrini’s Despite being under contract Ecuador, to clinch their place at the fi nals, “I think that West Ham had a track record with City — where through to the end of 2018 and and results in subsequent friendlies have diffi cult season last season and his team scored 151 goals in all with a reported release clause of been concerning. They were beaten 4-2 by I hope that next season we are competitions in the 2013-14 sea- $7mn, Hebei confi rmed on Satur- Nigeria in Krasnodar in November and then going to play football that will son — as crucial to his chances of day that Pellegrini had left his role. suff ered a humiliating 6-1 defeat by Spain in March, although both losses came without Messi in the side. Chile’s Manuel Pellegrini has “I see him in optimal form, very enthusi- signed a three-year contract astic and doing well physically. He was able to become West Ham’s to pace himself at training after winning the new manager. (AFP) league title,” Sampaoli said of Messi, who scored 45 goals in 54 games for Barcelona this season. Former Barcelona defender Javier Argentina’s captain Lionel Messi (right) with team manager Jorge Burruchaga during a Mascherano was one of six players selected training session in Ezeiza, Buenos Aires, yesterday. (AFP) who started the 2014 fi nal, joining Messi, Higuain, , and ARGENTINA 23-MAN SQUAD: (Benfica/POR) . Paris Saint-Germain mid- Goalkeepers: Sergio Romero (Manchester : Ever Banega (Sevilla/ESP), Lucas fi elder was called up af- United/ENG), (Chelsea/ENG), Biglia (AC Milan/ITA), Angel Di Maria (Paris ter an impressive fi rst full season with the (River Plate) Saint-Germain/FRA), Giovani Lo Celso (Paris French champions, while only three players Defenders: (Sevilla/ESP), Saint-Germain/FRA), Manuel Lanzini (West — Franco Armani, Maximiliano Meza and Federico Fazio (Roma/ITA), Nicolas Otamendi Ham/ENG), Maximiliano Meza (Independiente) Cristian Pavon — were selected from home- (Manchester City/ENG), Marcos Rojo Forwards: Lionel Messi (Barcelona/ESP), based clubs. Argentina are in a challenging (Manchester United/ENG), Nicolas Taglafico Gonzalo Higuain (Juventus/ITA), Paulo Dybala Group D, which includes Croatia, Nigeria (Ajax/NED), (Hebei Fortune/ (Juventus/ITA), Sergio Aguero (Manchester and World Cup debutants Iceland. CHN), Marcos Acuna (Sporting Lisbon/POR), City/ENG), Cristian Pavon (Boca Juniors) (Torino/ITA), Gulf Times Wednesday, May 23, 2018 3 FOOTBALL

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FOCUS ‘Lucky’ Mane trains Ronaldo praises sights on Real AFP from the guys behind. They make London it easier. The power of Liverpool Football Club is the collective. We always do everything togeth- adio Mane says he is er, this is our power.” a “lucky boy” to play Real are chasing a third suc- alongside Mohamed cessive European crown, a Liverpool but says Salah and Roberto Firmi- fourth in the past fi ve years and noS in Liverpool’s devastating a record-extending 13th in total. forward line as he bids to sink Liverpool have won the title fi ve Real Madrid in the Champions times themselves but this is their League fi nal. fi rst appearance in the fi nal for 11 The Liverpool forward has years and they did not even play struck 19 times this season and in Europe last season. wants more as the Reds take on The Spanish giants are the Madrid are better the holders for the European ti- clear favourites but Mane is con- tle in Kiev on Saturday. “I think fi dent Liverpool, who enjoyed more goals are coming,” said impressive wins over Manchester ‘They remind me of Madrid from a couple of years ago, with three quick players up top’ the Senegal international. “Of City and Roma in the knockout course I am happy but as a striker stages, have enough quality to you’d love to score every single win. “It was not easy, especially game to help your team.” from having the play-off against Mane, 26, has been the junior Hoff enheim and the group stage, partner in a formidable forward but now we are in the fi nal,” he trio this season. Salah has led said. the way with an outstanding 44 “Maybe that is a surprise goals while Firmino has weighed for many people but for us it’s in with 27 in all competitions. something we have always be- “Like I have always said, I have lieved in. Of course it will not be always been enjoying playing easy because we know they have alongside these great players,” experience and also they have said Mane. “They make every- qualities in the team. We respect thing easier for me. I am a lucky them a lot but we also have play- boy. But we always talk about the ers and staff to beat any team in front three. Don’t forget it starts the world.”

Liverpool’s Sadio Mane. (Reuters)

Real desperate to win the Champions League: Zidane

Madrid: Zinedine Zidane has a player inside the changing told Liverpool his Real Madrid room, with many coaches, with team are hungrier than ever to many players, with just as much From left: Real Madrid’s Luka Modric, coach Zinedine Zidane, assistant coach David Bettoni, defender Marcelo and forward Cristiano Ronaldo attend a training win the Champions League, de- ego as me,” Zidane said. “I know session yesterday ahead of their UEFA Champions league final against Liverpool, in Madrid. (AFP) spite clinching the title in three the changing room and I know of the last four years. Real are the mind of a player and that is Reuters ness after playing an hour of last week- team-mates they are in for a rough ride Mohamed Salah could prove the key to gunning for an unprecedented an important thing for me, but Madrid end’s 2-2 draw with Villarreal. He netted against Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool, reports a diff erent outcome in Kiev as the Egyp- third consecutive success in it is not the only thing. I am not his 17th goal in his last 10 La Liga appear- AFP. Kroos knows better than most what tian hopes to round off his sparkling sea- the competition on Saturday the best tactician, but I have ances in the process. “I want to be fi ne on it means to face an opponent coached by son in style. while Liverpool have reached other things — passion, motiva- eal Madrid forward Cristiano Saturday, play well, to score if I can, but Klopp, having gone up against Borussia Midfi elder Salah has scored 45 goals the final for the first time since tion — and those are worth Ronaldo knows a thing or two the important thing is to win — it doesn’t Dortmund seven times during his time at in 53 games this term and won England’s 2007. much more.” about being part of a pacey, di- matter who scores, what matters is mak- Bayern Munich. Golden Boot award after hitting 32 goals, “No one can tell us we are Some have billed this week- rect forward line and has com- ing history,” he said. The midfi elder won only one of those a new record for a 38-game campaign in less hungry,” Zidane said. “I end’s showdown as a contest paredR the Liverpool team to Real sides While Madrid’s domestic title defence meetings and while Real did beat Liver- the Premier League. can’t speak for our opponents between Cristiano Ronaldo of the recent past. “They remind me of fell fl at, fi nishing third, 13 points behind pool twice in the Champions League in “I have been very impressed by his but we want to stress we will and Mohamed Salah but when Madrid from a couple of years ago, with winners Barca and three points off city ri- 2014, Kroos is expecting another draining numbers,” Kroos said. “I have not seen always have the same motiva- asked if he would swap Ronaldo three quick players up top,” he said, look- vals Atletico, Ronaldo feels a Champions encounter this weekend. him that much but also, he has scored tion, the same as always, no for the Liverpool forward, Zi- ing forward to the Champions League fi - League win would more than make up for “My experience of him is it is always in important games in the Champions one can tell us we are less dane simply replied: “No.” nal on Saturday. “If they are in the fi nal, any disappointment. “I love this compe- tough to play his teams,” Kroos said yes- League, for example in the semi-fi nal. So hungry than the rest. We are On Ronaldo’s influence on they’re there for a reason and are in it on tition. They’re always good games and to terday. “When we played against his I think he is a very good player who could Madrid and despite what we the final, Zidane said: “The most merit,” he added. win it you need to beat the world’s best team, it was diffi cult. We always had a lot give us some diffi cult situations but we have, we always want more, possible. He is the best so it will Ronaldo, formerly of Liverpool’s arch- teams. It’s a competition in which some- of problems against Dortmund. Always. have to fi nd a solution for him and the rest and we will give everything to be the maximum.” rivals Manchester United, is looking to thing always happens, as we saw with “That is what I expect on Saturday of the players. It is not only Salah.” get even better.” Zidane would off er no clues win a fi fth Champions League title in his Juventus,” he said, referring to the scram- also. His teams are always aggressive, While Liverpool have made it to their Real’s experience at the deep as to his starting line-up in Kiev career, with Madrid seeking their third bled win in the quarter-fi nal. they press you a lot — for 90 minutes. fi rst Champions League fi nal since 2007, end of the Champions League but he did ackowledge the straight trophy. He is confi dent they will “I’ve had an amazing season in the They are highly motivated. I expect a very Real are chasing a fourth European tri- dwarfs that of this Liverpool excellent form of Gareth Bale, do it. “I have a lot of respect for them, Champions League, scoring in all the tough game for us but with opportunities umph in fi ve years and third in a row. team, who do not have a single who has scored five goals in his but I think Madrid are better. We have to group games. You need to be up for it and to win. I am sure it will be diffi cult but I “This is what you work for,” Real captain player to have made it this far last four starts. “He is playing realise the history we can make and we in this club you can never let up, let alone am also sure it is going to be diffi cult for Sergio Ramos said. before. Zidane also has his own very well, he has scored many need to show our experience,” said the in this competition, with the history of Liverpool.” “It is why you sacrifi ce and make all personal achievements to draw goals recently,” Zidane said. Portuguese attacker. “It’ll be something the club. On a personal level it motivates Klopp’s record in cups, however, is less the eff ort. It is the reward for all the hours upon, having won the most cov- “Not only that but he has historic, we’re really up for it,” he added. me a lot.” impressive, with the German reaching that you take away from your family and eted prize in club football three been very consistent. He has Ronaldo injured his ankle in the 2-2 fi ve fi nals as a manager and losing them friends. You want to reach an elite level times as a player and manager not played so much, but the last draw with Barcelona in El Clasico this KROOS WARY OF all. “I hope his record doesn’t change,” because you have to give up many things combined. three games he has played he month, however he appears to have shak- KLOPP’S LIVERPOOL Kroos said. “I didn’t know that fact but to and there is no better reward than the “It’s true I lived 18 years as has played well.” en off any lingering doubts about his t-fi Toni Kroos has warned his Real Madrid reach a fi nal is diffi cult enough.” Champions League.”

SPOTLIGHT BUNDESLIGA Ligue 1 chasers Ajaccio to play Borussia Dortmund names Lucien Favre as new head coach Toulouse in empty stadium AFP tion and then built them up into Berlin a solid mid-table side. “Training AFP After one postponement, four red cards, the night — to put Le Havre 2-1 up. Borussia Dortmund is an ap- Ajaccio, France a dramatic late equaliser and a penalty That appeared to be that, but Mateta pealing task that I am taking on shoot-out, Ajaccio moved a step closer to was then sent off for the provocative man- undesliga giants Borus- gladly... We will now build a new promotion on Sunday. The scheduled Ligue ner in which he celebrated his goal. Two sia Dortmund yester- team together,” said Favre. rench football authorities have or- 2 promotion play-off between Ajaccio and more players were also dismissed, leaving day named Lucien “BVB counts among the most dered second division Ajaccio to Le Havre was postponed in surreal scenes the sides to complete extra time with nine Favre as their new head interesting clubs in Europe and face Ligue 1 playoff rivals Toulouse on Friday after fans of the Corsican club at- men each. Ajaccio’s Mady Camara made coach,B poaching the 60-year-old I’m glad to be back in the Bun- in an empty stadium following ugly tacked the visitors’ team bus. it 2-2 in the fi fth minute of added time in Swiss from French Ligue 1 club desliga which I know best and scenesF over the weekend when fans of the Players and offi cials from Le Havre were extra time, forcing penalties, and the Cor- Nice with a two-year contract. which I have always kept an eye Corsican club attacked the team bus of vis- subjected to racist abuse, called “shitty sicans duly won the shoot-out 5-3. Le Ha- Favre will replace Peter on during the two years in Nice.” iting Le Havre. After hitting Ajaccio with a French” and, according to videos circulat- vre claimed the extraordinary scenes at the Stoeger, who had been in charge Favre led Nice to a third-placed stadium ban for the home leg of their two- ing on social media, sat in terror inside the weekend, which also saw Corsican fans in- BVB since December last year, fi nish last season, although they leg playoff against Toulouse, the French team bus as it was hit by stones and other vade the pitch, had unfairly obstructed their but whose contract was not ex- lost in the Champions League Professional League (LFP) ordered the Cor- projectiles. Le Havre returned home and bid for promotion and appealed to the LFP tended due to disappointing playoff round to Napoli last Au- sicans to play the match in an empty stadi- then came back for Sunday’s rescheduled to be awarded victory. However the appeal results. Borussia fi nished the gust. But this term a poor start um in Montpellier. game, only to see their hopes of promotion was rejected by the LFP, which said: “There season in fourth place, 29 points to their league campaign proved The decision means Ajaccio are free to go up in smoke. The match fi nished 1-1 after is nothing to constitute taking this match behind leader Bayern Munich, 2008-2009 season. In 2011- costly, as Saturday’s 3-2 loss continue their bid to rejoin France’s top 90 minutes, but Ajaccio midfi elder Mathieu away from Ajaccio.” and only just squeezed into a 2012, he took the driving seat at Lyon ensured they fi nished fl ight. Le Havre, based in northern France, Coutadeur was sent off in extra time after Le Havre yesterday pledged to “continue spot for next season’s Champi- at Borussia Moenchengladbach eighth and missed out on Euro- had launched an appeal following the vio- pushing the referee, who also awarded a our fi ght and appeal” the LFP’s decision to ons League. Favre is a seasoned when the club was languishing at pean football next season alto- lent scenes in Ajaccio in recent days, al- penalty, which on-loan Lyon striker Jean- validate Sunday’s result, which eff ectively hand in the Bundesliga, having the bottom of the table. gether. Favre’s new contract at though it was rejected by the LFP. Philippe Mateta scored — his second goal of drew a line under their promotion bid. led Hertha to fourth place in the He saved them from relega- Dortmund runs to June 30, 2020. Gulf Times 4 Wednesday, May 23, 2018 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Russia squad doping-free, Kane named England’s says FIFA

Reuters Zurich

ost nation Russia’s World Cup captain World Cup squad was declared free of doping by FIFA yesterday after theH global football body followed Eric Dier and Jordan Henderson were seen as the other likeliest candidates for the role up on the McLaren report, which uncovered widespread cheat- AFP ing across more than 30 sports London in the country. However, global soccer’s governing body said in a statement that investigations ottenham striker Harry Kane into several players unrelated to will be England’s captain at the the World Cup were continuing. World Cup in Russia, the Foot- A report commissioned by ball Association announced the World Anti-Doping Agency Tyesterday. Manager Gareth Southgate (WADA) and compiled by Ca- has shared the leadership role around nadian sports lawyer Richard since taking over as manager in 2016 but McLaren in 2016 found that has now settled on Kane for the tourna- more than 1,000 Russian com- ment, which begins next month. petitors were involved in a con- The 24-year-old, who has scored 12 spiracy to conceal positive drug goals in 23 international appearances, tests over a fi ve-year period. was fi rst handed the armband for the Football was among the sports qualifi er against Scotland last June and involved. has skippered the side on three further Russia, which will host the occasions. Southgate, who announced World Cup in June and July, has his decision during a team meeting at acknowledged some fi ndings of England’s training base on Monday, the McLaren report but has re- said: “Harry has some outstanding per- peatedly denied the existence sonal qualities. He is a meticulous pro- of a state-sponsored doping fessional and one of the most important programme. FIFA said that, fol- things for a captain is that they set the lowing the report, it launched its standard every day. own investigation “prioritising “He has belief and high standards high-level players against whom and it is a great message for the team a suspicion had been raised, in to have a captain who has shown that particular those who might par- it is possible to be one of the best in the ticipate in the 2018 FIFA World world over a consistent period of time.” Cup in Russia.” Southgate and Kane, who burst onto the It concluded that “insuffi cient senior international scene with a goal evidence was found to assert an 79 seconds into his 2015 debut against anti-doping rule violation” in Lithuania. the cases of all 28 members of “It’s an amazing honour,” said Kane. Russia’s provisional squad from “Obviously you always dream of play- which the fi nal 23 will be named. ing for England, growing up. To be the WADA had agreed with its fi nd- captain is that little bit more. So ex- ings, FIFA said. cited, obviously excited for the World “FIFA performed several un- Cup. I just can’t wait to be there and announced targeted doping con- experience it. To be leading the lads out trols in the process of the inves- is going to be special. But for me noth- England’s Harry Kane speaks during a press conference at St. George’s Park, Burton Upon Trent, Britain, yesterday. (Reuters) tigations and the Russian squad ing changes — I’m the same person, has been one of the most tested the same player, and it’s just about the England’s inexperienced squad, Kane ances for Spurs and England in 2017/18, in a row. The retired Wayne Rooney, the said Southgate. teams prior to the FIFA World team. We’ve just got to do what we can will travel to his fi rst World Cup full of missing out on a third consecutive dropped Joe Hart and Gary Cahill, who “You don’t become a top team by just Cup,” it added. and go as far as we can.” confi dence after another outstanding Premier League Golden Boot title to is heading to Russia after a last-minute having a good captain with good val- FIFA said it assessed all infor- Kane’s Spurs teammate Eric Dier and season in which he passed the 30-goal Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah. His goals reprieve, have also captained England ues because that has got to spread right mation contained in the report Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson mark for club and country for the fourth fi red Spurs to third place in the Premier under Southgate. “Of course, Harry throughout the group but I think he is “with the support of scientifi c were seen as the other likeliest candi- season in a row. League, meaning they qualifi ed for the will need the support of the other good the one who is ready to take that chal- and legal experts” and contacted dates for the role. The standout star in Kane has netted 45 goals in 52 appear- Champions League for the third season leaders that we have got around him,” lenge on.” McLaren himself. It said that samples taken by FIFA of all players mentioned in the McLaren reports and high- level players were re-analysed UKRAINE ACCUSES 35 FOOTBALL CLUBS OF MATCH-FIXING and all results were negative. FIFA also said it sent questions Kiev: Ukraine yesterday accused 35 documented the involvement of 320 public at such a preliminary stage. ers of unscrupulous bets. League teams,” said the deputy police to Russia’s former anti-doping football clubs of being involved in a individuals in 57 proven cases.” The announcement came as the Many of the matches are not shown chief. “Day after day, in the course of chief-turned-whistleblower match fixing operation than earned or- Avakov said organisers earned up football world’s attention zeroes in on on television and are more diff icult to an intense investigation lasting more Grigory Rodchenkov and as- ganisers millions of dollars a year. Police to $5mn a year by making bets in Asia the Ukrainian capital Kiev ahead of investigate in cases of a suspected fixed than a year, we were documenting how sessed his answers “with the said two-thirds of all teams in Ukraine’s on pre-determined results of Ukrainian Saturday’s Champions League final result. The teams named by the police these groups worked.” Kupranets said support of scientifi c and legal top divisions took part. matches. Ukraine’s deputy police chief between Liverpool and Real Madrid. include this year’s third and fourth place the bribes paid to referees and players experts.” Neither perennial champions Igor Kupranets separately told reporters Ukraine failed to make next month’s finishers: Vorskla Poltava and Zorya ranged from around $1,100 to $3,700. Regarding Russian non-World Dynamo Kyiv nor Shakhtar Donetsk that no arrests had been made. Ku- World Cup in Russia. Lugansk. Kupranets said organisers “Today is a historic day for Ukrainian Cup players, FIFA said it will were named. “Club presidents, former pranets added that prosecutors would Football in eastern Europe has been usually made a series of relatively football,” Ukrainian Football Federation “continue to work on these cases and current players, referees, trainers decide whether and when to bring mired in match-fixing allegations for small bets of a few thousands dollars head Andriy Pavelko said. “This is the in co-operation with the WADA and commercial organisations were in- charges against the suspects. years. Players in the smaller teams and per game. “They could earn between start of a systemic cleanup of Ukrainian Further updates will be provided volved,” Interior Minister Arsen Avakov It was not clear why off icials were referees earn relatively little money and $10,000 and $100,000 a match with- football from a problem that was rooted in due course.” There was no im- wrote on Facebook. “In total, we have making the course of their investigation appear to be easier targets for organis- out betting on the very top Premier in Ukrainian football for years.” mediate comment from the Rus- sian Football Union (RFU).

TESTIMONIAL MATCH ROUND-UP Star-studded farewell for Italy legend Pirlo Lopetegui extends contract AFP pain coach Julen Lo- representing South Korea at but after a review of the video, Milan petegui has extended his the World Cup fi nals in Russia Petrasso was shown a yellow contract until 2020 in a after tearing ligaments in his card and the former Juventus, pre-World Cup boost for right knee playing for Gangwon Barcelona and Manchester ormer Italy star Andrea Pirlo took oneS of the tournament favour- FC in the Korean league at the United striker a red. to the pitch for the fi nal time to say ites. It is a clear sign of confi - weekend. Despite the Impact control- goodbye to football in a star-stud- dence from the Spanish federa- Lee, who won the continental ling the ball for 56 percent of the ded testimonial “Night of the Mas- tion in the 51-year-old former award in 2012 after helping Ulsan game and taking 15 more shots, ter”F tournament at the San Siro on Monday goalkeeper as he goes into his Hyundai to the Asian Champi- Galaxy’s 10 men prevailed when night. Champions and former teammates fi rst major tournament in charge ons League title, suff ered the in- Ola Kamara scored the only goal from all over the world — from Paolo Maldini of the side. jury playing for his club against of the game in the 75th minute. to Gianluigi Buff on, and Roberto Baggio to The new deal takes Lopetegui Gyeongnam FC on Saturday and The win ends a four-game Frank Lampard — joined the retiring legend through to the next European his withdrawal adds to a growing skid for the Galaxy who are now to celebrate the fi nal act of a glittering career. Championships, which will injury list for head coach Shin 4-6-1 while the loss is the third “I thank my friends and all the people be held across the continent Tae-yong. The 32-year-old joins straight for the 3-9-0 Impact, who came to the stadium to enjoy a fantastic in 2020. The contract renewal fi rst-choice central defender who will need to fi nd some goals evening of entertainment, sport and char- comes a day after Lopetegui Kim Min-jae of Jeonbuk Motors in the remaining 24 games of ity,” the 39-year-old said as he received a announced his 23-man squad for and Dijon winger Kwon Chang- the season if they hope to make standing ovation from 50,000 fans. the World Cup. hoon in pulling out of the squad the playoff s. Ibrahimovic made Towards the end of the match which fi n- Lopetegui was appointed to due to injury. Kim has been a Hollywood entrance during ished 7-7 with a hat-trick from former AC the role in the wake of Spain’s sidelined by a hairline fracture to his fi rst game for the Galaxy in Milan and Juventus striker Filippo Inzaghi, poor showing at Euro 2016 his shin while Kwon will miss the March when he scored twice, Pirlo gave his place to his 15-year-old son in France, when they were World Cup after rupturing his including the winner, in a thrill- Nicolo, also a midfi elder and who plays for eliminated in the last 16. He suc- Achilles. ing 4-3 victory over local rivals Juventus’s youth team. ceeded Vicente del Bosque, who LAFC but has added only one “He has fun and I’m happy, he must be had overseen Spain’s triumphs IBRAHIMOVIC SENT OFF more goal since. happy to play football, it’s the best thing in at the 2010 World Cup and Euro FOR HEAD SLAP the world, in the future we’ll see,” said Pirlo. 2012 but had also been in charge Zlatan Ibrahimovic received a ARSENAL FINED OVER And there was no lack of coaching talent for the disappointing group red card for slapping an oppos- LEICESTER REF RAGE either on the bench with former AC Milan stage exit at the 2014 World Cup ing player in the head on Monday Arsenal were fi ned £20,000 by coach Carlo Ancelotti leading the ‘White in Brazil. La Roja cruised through but the LA Galaxy were still able the Football Association for their Stars’ team and Juventus’s Massimiliano Al- qualifying for this year’s World to eke out a 1-0 win over the players’ protests during a 3-1 de- legri in charge of the ‘Blue Stars’. Cup in Russia, with nine wins Montreal Impact without their feat at Leicester. Gunners players Italian FA vice-commissioner Alessandro and a draw in 10 games. marquee acquisition. were left incensed after referee Costacurta, another former AC Milan play- Spain will face Portugal, Iran Impact defender Michael Pet- Graham Scott gave Leicester er, and who has said Pirlo could have a future and Morocco in Group B at the rasso stepped on the 36-year- a 75th-minute spot-kick for a role in the federation, also took to the pitch. World Cup, beginning their old’s foot in the 40th minute of foul by on Pirlo said he was considering coaching. Former Italy’s midfielder Andrea Pirlo is tossed in the air by teammates after his testimonial campaign against their Iberian the match in Montreal and the Demarai Gray at the King Power “I have time to think about what to do. I ‘Night of the Master’ match at the San Siro in Milan on Monday night. (AFP) neighbours in Sochi on June 15. towering Swede retaliated with Stadium. stopped recently, I don’t miss the pitch. In a slap to the back of Petrasso’s Jamie Vardy converted the the future it could be coaching,” he said. “All on his illustrious career last November after for Inter, AC Milan and Juventus before mov- LEE RULED OUT OF KOREAN head. penalty to put Leicester 2-1 up my ex-teammates didn’t want to become winning the 2006 World Cup, two Champi- ing to play in New York City FC in the MLS. “I WORLD CUP SQUAD Both players fell to the ground and on course for victory in Ar- coaches, yet they’ve all done it.” ons League titles and six Serie A trophies. Pir- chose May 21 because 21 is my number and I Former Asian Player of the Year in an apparent eff ort to win the senal’s penultimate game of the Capped 116 times for Italy, Pirlo called time lo began his career at Brescia and also played made my debut in May,” said Pirlo. Lee Keun-ho will miss out on sympathy of referee Ismail Elfath Premier League season on May 9. Gulf Times Wednesday, May 23, 2018 5 SPORT

NBA MLB Soto blasts fi rst HR as Nats pound Padres LeBron scores 44 to Soto led the minor leagues with Reuters Washington 14 homers each this season. Soto is the youngest player in the majors since shortstop Ju- ineteen-year-old rickson Profar debuted with the Juan Soto, the young- Texas Rangers in 2012. Soto is re- est player in the major garded as the Nationals’ second- leagues since the 2012 best prospect and one of the top lead Cavaliers over Nseason, hit a three-run homer 15 prospects in baseball. in the fi rst at-bat of his fi rst big Gonzalez (5-2) held the Padres league start on Monday night to to two runs on two hits and three trigger the Washington Nation- walks with fi ve strikeouts over als to a 10-2 win over the visiting seven innings. Erlin (1-3) gave up San Diego Padres. six runs on seven hits (including Soto drove the fi rst pitch he two homers) with two strikeouts saw from left-handed Padres in four innings. Mitchell allowed Boston, level series starter Robbie Erlin into the four runs on seven hits (two seats in left-centre to give the homers) and two walks in three ‘Any time I’m in the same breath with the greats, it’s just humbling. I think it’s pretty cool’ Nationals a 3-0 lead. innings. His homer, which ignited Reynolds was 3-for-5 for AFP a fi ve-run second inning for Washington. Michael A. Taylor, Washington Washington, was one of four the Turner, Harper, Soto and Difo all Nationals hit off Erlin and reliev- had two hits for the Nationals. er Bryan Mitchell. Rookie Gleyber Torres record- eBron James scored 44 Mark Reynolds hit solo home ed his fi rst career multi-hom- points, adding more runs to lead off the third and er game as visiting New York records to his amazing seventh inning, respectively. slugged fi ve home runs in crush- NBA legacy, and pow- Bryce Harper homered to lead off ing Texas. Lered the Cleveland Cavaliers the fi fth. The win snapped both Torres homered twice off Bar- over Boston 111-102 on Monday, the Padres’ three-game winning tolo Colon (2-2), whose major equalising their Eastern Con- streak and the Nationals’ three- league debut occurred on April ference fi nal at two wins each. game losing streak. 4, 1997, when the second base- The 33-year-old super- Soto struck out as a pinch hit- man was less than 4 months old. star made 17-of-28 shots from ter Sunday in his major league It also was the 12th multi-homer the fl oor, 1-of-4 from 3-point debut after being promoted from game by a Yankee this season and range, and 9-of-13 free throws Double-A Harrisburg. Monday Torres’ fi fth and sixth homers while contributing fi ve re- was the fi rst time he started in since making his major league bounds, three assists and two left fi eld. He fi nished the game debut on April 22. steals to spark a crucial home 2-for-4 with the homer, three The Yankees won for the 22nd triumph. RBIs and two runs scored. time in 26 games by hitting “I’ve just put a lot of work in,” Reynolds opened the Nation- at least four homers in a third said James of his point produc- als second with a single and straight game for the fi rst time in tion. “The Man Above has given moved to third on Pedro Sev- team history. Neil Walker, Aaron me some abilities I try to take erino’s double ahead of Soto’s Judge and Aaron Hicks provided advantage of.” homer. Wilmer Difo singled and the other blasts. The best-of-seven show- scored on Trea Turner’s two-out down, level at 2-2, continues double. Harper then doubled RESULTS on Wednesday at Boston, where home Turner for the 5-0 advan- Nationals 10 Padres 2 the Celtics are undefeated in tage. Reynolds’ fi rst homer gave Yankees 10 Rangers 5 these playoff s, with game six on the Nationals a 6-0 lead. Cardinals 6 Royals 0 Friday in Cleveland, where the The Padres’ only runs off Gio Rockies 2 Dodgers 1 Cavs have won seven in a row. Gonzalez came on rookie Fran- Phillies 3 Braves 0 “There’s no love in there mil Reyes’ fi rst major league Brewers 4 Diamondbacks 2 if you’re not wearing green,” homer – an opposite-fi eld drive Mets 2 Marlins 0 James said of Boston. “If we to right in the fourth. Before Orioles 3 White Sox 2 play like we did in (games) three both were called up, Reyes and Twins 4 Tigers 2 and four, I think we’ll have a good shot.” The series winner will face either season wins leader Hou- LeBron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives to the basket against Marcus Morris of the Boston Celtics in the second-half during game ston or defending champion four of the 2018 NBA Eastern Conference Finals at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. (Getty Images/AFP) Golden State in the NBA Finals starting May 31. 19-10 edge on the way to a 34- have what it takes to be victori- James seeks his eighth con- 18 lead after the fi rst quarter, Funds being raised for LeBron statue in Akron ous.” secutive trip to the NBA Finals Cleveland closing the period on There might soon be a statue to immortalise King James in his and fourth with the Cavaliers. a 13-3 run and the Celtics miss- hometown. A GoFundMe account has been created with a goal of Turnovers deadly for Cavs In unleashing his sixth ing three dunks in the opening raising $1 million to commission a life-size statue of Cleveland Cava- Tristan Thompson added 13 40-point performance of this 12 minutes. liers star LeBron James in Akron, Ohio. points and 12 rebounds for the year’s playoff s, the most such “Once we settled down after The fundraiser is organised by fellow St. Vincent-St. Mary High Cavaliers, who need to win once eff orts in any year since Allen the fi rst we played much better. School grad Aaron Carey. “We want to do this with the fans,” Carey at Boston to advance. Iverson’s six in 2001, James rose I don’t think they were doing told the Akron Beacon-Journal. “They hit us in the mouth. to second on the all-time 40 or anything diff erent,” Celtics for- “We want fans to be able to thank LeBron for what he has done We struck back,” Thompson more playoff game list, passing ward Al Horford said. for Akron and the Cavs.” For his part, James was flattered by the said. “The real test is how we NBA legend Jerry West with his “We have to execute better. gesture. “First of all, thank you,” James said of the fundraiser at the play in Boston.” 21st such total. It’s much harder on the road.” team’s shootaround on Monday morning. “It would be cool, not only Cavs coach Tyronn Lue hopes And with his sixth basket of James scored 22 points on for myself, but for my family and all the people that had anything to it won’t match Monday’s 18 the night, James passed the old 8-of-11 shooting in the fi rst half do with this journey thus far. I’m appreciative even of the thought.” turnovers, twice as many as the mark for career playoff fi eld and Kyle Korver added 14 points Carey told the Beacon-Journal he has contacted artist Omri Amrany, Celtics. goals of 2,356 by Kareem Ab- off the bench, all in the fi rst half, who has built several Los Angeles Lakers statues outside Staples “Turning the basketball over dul-Jabbar. as Cleveland led by as many as Center, to potentially design the statue and has already met with has been killing us in this se- “Any time I’m in the same 19 points and opened a 68-53 Cavs owner Dan Gilbert regarding the idea. ries,” Lue said. “We like what breath with the greats, it’s just half-time advantage. A site for the statue has not yet been finalised, and an initial design we’re doing defensively holding humbling,” James said. “I think “He’s the best in the game at by Amrany depicts James soaring toward the basket to deliver a them to 41 percent (shooting). it’s pretty cool.” evaluating the game and fi gur- dunk while wearing a headband, his No 23 high school jersey and We just have to take better care ing out what he wants and where his first signature Nike shoe. “I don’t have a particular pose in mind,” of the ball.” Cavaliers dominate early he wants it,” Celtics coach Brad James said when asked how he’d like to be depicted. “Like I said, I Jaylen Brown led Boston with The Celtics outscored the Stevens said of James. think it’s the thought that counts. It’s pretty cool.” 25 points while Jason Tatum Cavs in each of the fi nal three “You have to make it as tough netted 17, Terry Rozier contrib- quarters but never managed to on him as possible.” uted 16 points and 11 assists and overcome Cleveland’s ferocious Although the Celtics rally was too little and too late. pass,” James said. Horford added 15 points. start. trimmed the defi cit to 89-76 “We were a lot better defen- “We have to have the same “Right now we’re fi ghting for Washington Nationals left fielder Juan Soto in action against the San James had fi ve points in a entering the fourth quarter and sively, making them take con- mindset we had the past two our playoff lives,” Horford said. Diego Padres during the sixth inning of their MLB game at Nationals 10-0 run that gave the Cavs a made a charge within eight, the tested shots, make the extra games. If our mind is there, we “We have a big challenge.” Park in Washington. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

NHL Capitals blank Lightning to force playoff showdown AFP fi rst-year expansion team trying cal side of the game,” Oshie said. Washington to defy hometown casino odds of “We kept pounding at them and 500-1 by taking the trophy in its played physical and that wears inaugural campaign. Vegas beat you down.” ashington’s T.J. Os- Winnipeg in the Western Con- Oshie raced for a loose puck in hie scored two goals ference fi nal. the crease behind the Tampa Bay and Braden Holtby Holtby made the fi fth play- goalie in the fi nal seconds of the made 24 saves as off shutout of his career, and second period but Lightning de- Wthe Capitals blanked the Tampa his fi rst in 84 starts, to keep the fender Brayden Point was able to Bay Lightning 3-0 on Monday, Capitals in contention for their knock the puck to the corner and equalising their best-of-seven fi rst trip to the fi nal since 1998 away from the unguarded net. Eastern Conference Final series as they try to hoist the trophy for Smith-Pelly netted an insur- at three triumphs each. the fi rst time as well. ance goal for the Capitals with Devante Smith-Pelly added “We just said you only get a 9:58 remaining in the third another goal as the host Capi- certain amount of chances and period. Chandler Stephenson tals, who lost three games in we could do something special outraced a Tampa Bay defender a row after taking a 2-0 series here,” Smith-Pelly said. “We down the rink to avoid an icing lead, pushed the playoff match- went out and put it all on the line call, then slid the puck behind up to the limit. and I would say that was a per- the net to Jay Beagle, who fl icked “We were sure that if we came fect game.” it back out front where onrush- in and did what we had to do we Washington’s fi rst goal was ing Smith-Pelly smacked it into would win it,” Oshie said. set up when Tampa Bay’s Bray- the left corner for a 2-0 Wash- “Game seven is going to be don Coburn was whistled for ington advantage. an all-out war and we wouldn’t hooking Smith-Pelly with 6:11 “It was speed and physicality,” have it any other way.” remaining in the second quarter. Smith-Pelly said of the deciding The winner-take-all show- Making the most of the ex- factors. “We tried to work hard down to determine a berth in the tra-man situation, the Capitals through 60 minutes.” Stanley Cup Final will be played seized the lead when Oshie took The Lightning removed Va- on Wednesday at Tampa. a pass from Nicklas Backstrom silevskiy for an extra attacker When the championship se- and blasted a shot past Lightning in the fi nal minutes but Oshie ries begins next Monday, either goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy. scored into the empty goal with the Lightning or Capitals will “Once we scored that fi rst 50 seconds remaining to secure Andrei Vasilevskiy (right) and Yanni Gourde of the Tampa Bay Lightning defend against T.J. Oshie (left) of the Washington Capitals in the first period of face the Vegas Golden Knights, a goal we didn’t give up our physi- the victory. game six of the Eastern Conference Finals during the NHL Stanley Cup playoff s at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. (Getty Images/AFP) Gulf Times 6 Wednesday, May 23, 2018 CRICKET

FIRST TEST FOCUS Bess eager to make most of England Amir ‘100 percent Test chance

AFP against New Zealand earlier London this year and Bess said he had spoken to his teammate about playing for England at the om Bess has insisted highest level. ready’ to face the prospect of play- “He absolutely loved (his ing his fi rst match at debut) and I saw when he Lord’s in a Test for came back - him and Craig DEngland won’t get the better (Overton) - when you get a of him. taste of it, you want it even The closest the 20-year- more,” Bess said. old off -spinner has got to a “I really got that vibe off game at the ‘home of cricket’ Jack - and as soon as I’ve been England: Arthur was when he was 12th man for here now, I want it. I want it visitors Somerset in a County more and more. I think that’s a ‘He’s ready, I just hope it goes really well for him because he’s been unlucky at times’ Championship match against very good trait to have. Middlesex last season. “(Leach said) ‘You’re here AFP Now the 26-year-old Amir is But an injury to county col- for a reason, and you’ve just London set to be the leader of an inexpe- league Jack Leach, who has got to adapt now to the level rienced Pakistan attack. broken a thumb, led to Bess’s up’. I hope that’s something I England, who didn’t manage inclusion in a 12-man squad can do well.” akistan spearhead Mo- a single win during their recent for the series opener against Meanwhile Bess was de- hamed Amir is “100 seven combined Tests in Aus- Pakistan and he could well be lighted to be soaking up the percent ready” for the tralia and New Zealand, col- in the XI when the fi rst Test atmosphere of Lord’s, with fi rst Test against Eng- lapsed to 58 all out in Auckland starts at Lord’s on Thursday. that 12th man stint his only Pland at Lord’s starting tomorrow in March as Kiwi left-arm quick Bess only made his fi rst- previous visit to Lord’s - a despite a knee injury, according Trent Boult took six wickets. class debut, against Pakistan ground he never attended just to team coach Mickey Arthur. at Taunton two years ago, and as a cricket spectator. The left-arm fast bowler was ‘Finest exponent’ has since played a mere 16 “It will be a very special day seen stretching out his right And Arthur backed Amir to do fi rst-class matches. if I get my chance to play out knee as Pakistan beat Test debu- similar damage. But asked if he felt ready here. I’ve never been to the tants Ireland by fi ve wickets dur- “I think Mohamed Amir is the for Test cricket, the Somerset home dressing-room (before), ing a one-off match in Malahide, fi nest exponent of pace and swing bowler told reporters at Lord’s so to have a look at the (hon- Dublin concluded last week. when he gets it 100 percent right,” on Tuesday: “Of course I do. ours) board was very special. Pakistan bowling coach Azhar Arthur said. There’s a lot of chat about “I hope one day I can get my Mahmood suggested Amir “We’ve used that spell that me only playing 16 fi rst-class name up there.” had suff ered a recurrence of a Trent Boult bowled in Auckland. matches, but I always believe Last week saw Bess reveal “chronic” problem. But head We’ve had a look at his lengths. that everything happens for a how he had answered a tel- coach Arthur, speaking to report- “We believe he (Amir) bowls reason. ephone call confi rming his ers at Lord’s on Tuesday, had no incredibly well at left-handers “I think it is obviously a England call-up while shop- qualms about the fi tness of Amir. and there will be three left- freak accident that happened ping in furniture store Ikea. “He’s perfect, 100 percent,” handers (Alastair Cook, Mark to Jack Leach and I am gutted And yesterday he said he’d Arthur insisted. “He’s fi ne he’s Stoneman and Dawid Malan) in for him - I saw him the other still to complete his intended ready to go.” the (England) top four. day. But when I got the phone purchase of a sofa. As for Amir, missing Pakistan’s “He’s ready, I just hope it goes call, I am just going to take this “I need to get hold of Ikea, I fi nal warm-up match ahead of really well for him because he’s opportunity.” really do, because I’m in need the two-Test England series, last been unlucky at times with the He added: “It is more for of some sofas,” he said. “As weekend’s drawn match against amount of dropped catches. He’s me the opportunity - I see it soon as (I took the call from Leicestershire, Arthur added: “It ready, he’s determined, he’s fi t, as a great opportunity. If I put national selector Ed Smith), I was his rotation. (Mohame) Ab- he’s strong, he’s excited, he’s in a pressure on myself as well, was straight out of that place bas sat out the fi rst (tour) game, very good place at the moment.” then there is only going to be to phone mum and dad. Hasan (Ali) sat out the second, so Arthur is unusual in having a spiral.” “I need to have a quiet word he sat out the third.” served as the head coach of three with Ikea, because I think they Amir was the hottest prop- leading nations - his native South ‘Want it’ got a bit of press about it as erty in world cricket after burst- Africa, Australia and Pakistan. Leach made his Test debut well. I need a sofa!” ing on the scene as a teenager But he was adamant he had no in 2009 and at 18 he was the desire to replace Trevor Bayliss youngest bowler to have taken when the Australian steps down 50 Test wickets. But his world as England coach next year. “No, was turned upside down in 2010 I’m very happy,” Arthur said. when he became involved in a Pakistan’s Mohamed Amir “I’d like to keep going with spot-fi xing scandal after delib- during a net session at Lord’s Pakistan for as long as they will erately bowling no-balls during in London yesterday. (Reuters) have me because it’s unfi nished the Lord’s Test against England business for us at the moment. - an incident that would eventu- This is a very young cricket team ally see him sent to prison by an and I worry if we move on what English court and given a fi ve- happens to these guys. year ban by the International great. But the 17 Tests since his the fact that those 17 Tests since ing their 2-2 draw in a four-Test “Their fi tness regime is out- Cricket Council. comeback two years ago have 2016 have also seen 16 catches series in England two years ago. standing, they are training hard Amir’s fi rst 14 Tests saw him seen him take 49 wickets at a dropped off his bowling. He also starred for Essex and they are enjoying their take 51 wickets at just a fraction more expensive average of 34.91 The stigma of his spot-fi xing as they won English domes- cricket. I’m very, very happy over 23 apiece, fi gures that had Amir, and Pakistan for that exile has started to fade, with tic cricket’s fi rst-class County with where I am at the moment,” him on course to be an all-time matter, have not been helped by Amir playing for Pakistan dur- Championship title last season. he insisted. England’s Dom Bess during the press conference yesterday.(Reuters)

INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE SPOTLIGHT Sri Lanka board Du Plessis blitz puts Chennai in fi nal hikes players wages Reuters Mumbai by 34 percent

wo-time champions AFP since winning the World Cup Chennai Super Kings Colombo in 1996. They suff ered a se- marched into the fi nal ries defeat against India, lost of the Indian Premier a home one-day series to bot- TLeague (IPL) after Faf du Plessis ri Lanka’s Cricket yes- tom ranked Zimbabwe and smashed a blistering 67 not out terday increased wag- crashed out of the Champions to fashion their thrilling two- es for national players Trophy early. wicket victory against Sunrisers by more than a third Hyderabad yesterday. afterS making record profi ts Bangladesh hire Kirsten Chasing 140 to reach the fi - in 2017. A total of 33 players to find new coach nal for the seventh time, Chen- under contract to Sri Lanka South African great Gary nai were gasping at 62 for six Cricket will also see match Kirsten, who coached India to when South African Du Plessis fees increase substantially World Cup success, said yes- mounted a spectacular counter- despite dismal results on the terday he is helping rudderless attack to see them home with fi eld last year. Bangladesh quickly to fi nd a fi ve balls to spare at Mumbai’s “Sri Lanka Cricket raised coach ahead of a looming tour. Wankhede Stadium. the wages of national players Bangladesh have not had a The opener scored the win- by 34 percent for the period coach since Sri Lankan Chan- ning run with his fourth six, of 2018/19, following strong dika Hathurusingha stepped which must have pleased skip- results achieved during the down in October after a suc- per Mahendra Singh Dhoni who concluded fi nancial year,” it cessful three-year stint. had sealed India’s victory in the said in a statement. It did not The Bangladesh Cricket 2011 World Cup fi nal against Sri give a breakdown of individual Board (BCB) has appointed Lanka at the same venue in a salaries, but they are known to Kirsten as a consultant to help similar fashion. Hyderabad can be among the highest paid in- fi nd a coach before a tour of still make Sunday’s fi nal, for dividuals in Sri Lanka. the West Indies in July and which they will need to beat the Last week, SLC announced August. Kirsten arrived in winner of today’s eliminator be- a record annual profi t of 2.12 Bangladesh on Sunday and tween Kolkata Knight Riders and billion rupees ($14 million) for has already met players, BCB Rajasthan Royals. 2017, 33 times what it made offi cials, selectors and local Table-toppers Hyderabad the year before. Revenues of coaches. had made it a habit of defending six billion rupees were roughly “I know Chandika did a low totals in the group stage and double 2016 fi gures. great job with the team. I just once again their bowlers blew Offi cial sources attributed want to understand what that away the top half of Chennai’s Chennai Super Kings’ players celebrate after winning the 2018 Indian Premier League first qualifier against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Wankhede the sharp profi t rise to a packed was about and what made the batting order quickly to give Stadium in Mumbai yesterday. (AFP) 2017 calendar which featured team do well in that time,” them an upper hand. home series against Bangla- said Kirsten, 50. Siddharth Kaul (2-32) dis- seven to further peg back Chen- Wary of the dew factor later liamson, lone foreigner to lead it was not enough in the end. desh, India and Zimbabwe. “Hopefully in a couple of missed Suresh Raina (22) and nai. Watching the meltdown in the evening, Dhoni had ear- an IPL team this season, hit four Broadcasting earnings from an weeks I will have someone Ambati Rayudu in successive from the other end, Du Plessis lier opted to fi eld against 2016 crisp boundaries in his 24 but BRIEF SCORES: Sunrisers India tour were thought to be a in place to take the team for- deliveries to force Chennai onto then took the onus on himself champions Hyderabad and they kept losing wickets at regu- Hyderabad: 139/7 in 20 overs major contributor. ward.” the back foot in the fourth over. to put Chennai’s chase back on paceman Deepak Chahar gave lar intervals. (Carlos Brathwaite 43 not out; The cash bonanza was the Under Hathurusingha, In-form Afghan spinner track and he got good support Chennai a perfect start by dis- Yusuf Pathan contributed 24 Dwayne Bravo 2/25) against only good news from a woe- Bangladesh reached the World Rashid Khan (2-11) deceived from number 10 batsman Shar- missing opener Shikhar Dhawan but it was Carlos Brathwaite’s 43 Chennai Super Kings: 140/8 in ful spell for Sri Lanka cricket, Cup quarter-fi nals in 2015 and Dhoni (nine) with a googly and dul Thakur who made 15 not out for a fi rst ball duck. not out from 29 balls that helped 19.1 overs (Du Plesis 67; Rashid with the islanders enduring the Champions Trophy semi- dismissed Dwayne Bravo for from fi ve balls. Hyderabad captain Kane Wil- Hyderabad post 139-7, however Khan 2/12). their worst year on the pitch fi nals in England last year. Gulf Times Wednesday, May 23, 2018 7 SPORT

CYCLING / GIRO D’ITALIA BADMINTON / THOMAS AND UBER CUP India swept aside by China in men’s event Dennis wins 16th Chinese shuttler wrapped up the IANS Bangkok match with ease. India’s poor show continued in the men’s doubles aff air too ndia crashed out of the men’s as Arjun MR and Ramchandran competition at the Thomas Shlok suff ered a 12-21, 15-21 loss and Uber Cup badminton to Lieu Chang and Zhang Nan, tournament following a hu- which gave China a 2-0 lead. stage time-trial, Imiliating 0-5 defeat against Chi- Shi Yuqi then overcame In- na here yesterday. dia’s B Sai Praneeth in the second After whitewashing Australia men’s singles to further extend 5-0 on Monday, the Indian shut- China’s lead. tlers failed to keep the momentum After losing the fi rst game going as they were brutally ham- 9-21, Praneeth made a comeback mered by the Chinese shuttlers. by winning it 21-15 but faltered in In the fi rst game which last- the third game, losing 12-21. Yates holds lead ed for 27 minutes, World No.9 Liu Yuchen and Li Junhui HS Prannoy was clobbered in handed China a unassailable 4-0 straight sets 9-21, 9-21 by Chen lead as they defeated the India Defending champ Dumoulin is 56 seconds behind leader; Froome up to fourth Long in the singles clash. pair of Arun Geoge and Sanyam Right from the start, Prannoy Shukla 21-15, 20-22, 21-8 in an never looked in contention as he another men’s double match. gifted away several points due to China fi nally wrapped up the poor shot selection. The Indian issue 5-0 as Lin Dan outclassed struggled in both games as the Lakshya Sen 16-21, 21-9, 21-8.

GOLF / RYDER CUP Captain Bjorn names Harrington, Westwood among vice-captains

AFP London

urope captain Tho- mas Bjorn named Lee Westwood, Padraig Harrington, Graeme McDowellE and Luke Donald as vice-captains for this year’s Ry- der Cup against the United States for the biennial contest, which yesterday. takes place from September 28- Westwood has played in the 30, but Westwood (117th) is the past 10 contests since making only player currently ranked in- his debut in 1997 and was on the side the world’s top 200. winning side seven times, while “I am honoured to have been Harrington was vice-captain to selected by Thomas to be one of Paul McGinley in 2014 and Dar- what I think is a pretty impres- ren Clarke in 2016. sive quintet of vice-captains,” McDowell, who claimed the said Westwood. winning point at Celtic Manor in “Of course, my ideal scenario is 2010, and Donald will make their that I hit a hot streak of form over debuts in the backroom staff at Le the summer and force my way in Golf National in Paris as Europe to the team but, quite honestly, as seek to regain the trophy following long as I am able to contribute to defeat at Hazeltine two years ago. the 2018 European team in some Bjorn, who had already select- way, I am going to be happy.” ed Sweden’s Robert Karlsson as Three-time major winner Mitchelton-Scott’s British rider Simon Yates competes in the 16th stage time trial between Trento and Rovereto during the Giro d’Italia yesterday. (AFP) a vice-captain, said his deputies Harrington said: “We are all were all strong characters but united in the mission of reclaim- AFP Dennis, 27, fi nished 14sec ahead of But I died in the fi nal 10 kilometres. STAGE 16 RESULTS (top 10) each would bring something dif- ing the Ryder Cup in Paris and I Rovereto, Italy Germany’s Tony Martin of Katusha-Al- “Being in the lead after the time-trial 1. Rohan Dennis (BMC) 40min 00sec ferent to the team. know Thomas has a very strong pecin with Dumoulin of Team Sunweb changes my tactics for the remaining 2. Tony Martin (KAT) +14sec “All fi ve are widely respected strategy in place that will give third 22sec off the pace. stages. 3. Tom Dumoulin (SUN) +22 throughout the game, are all cur- us absolutely the best possible ustralia’s Rohan Dennis won the It was the fi rst Giro stage win for the “Unfortunately for the fans, I might 4. Jos van Emden (LNL) +27 rent players who are well known chance to do this.” 16th stage of the Giro d’Italia, rider from Adelaide who fi nished sec- be more defensive. I’d like to have a big- 5. Chris Froome (SKY) +35 to the players who will be in our Westwood and Harrington a 34.2km individual time-trial ond in the fi rst time-trial in Jerusalem, ger gap but I’m very satisfi ed with where 6. Fabio Aru (EAU) +37 team come September and they have also expressed an interest in between Trento and Rovereto in and adds to his stage wins on the Tour de I stand now.” 7. Alex Dowsett (KAT) +40 also all possess a knowledge and the captaincy and could be rivals northernA Italy yesterday. France and Vuelta a Espana. Italian climber Fabio Aru, who had understanding of what to expect to succeed Bjorn and lead Europe 8. Diego Ulissi (EAU) +40 Britain’s Simon Yates retained the Four-time Tour de France winner Chris looked out of the race after losing 20 9. Chad Haga (SUN) +47 from the golf course at Le Golf in the 2020 contest at Whistling leader’s pink jersey with a 56-sec lead Froome was fi fth on the stage, 35sec be- minutes on Sunday, created the big sur- 10. David de la Cruz (SKY) +1:01 National too,” he said at Went- Straits. on defending champion Tom Dumou- hind the Australian as the Team Sky rider prise of the day as he achieved the best OVERALL STANDINGS (top 10) worth, ahead of this week’s PGA Bjorn’s opposite number Jim lin going into the crucial, final week of moves up to fourth from seventh overall time-trial of his career fi nishing just two 1. Simon Yates (MIT) +66hr 39min 14sec Championship. Furyk has named Davis Love, Ti- racing. at 3min 50sec. seconds behind Froome. 2. Tom Dumoulin (SUN) +56sec “You only need to look at the ger Woods and Steve Stricker as “This is a big day for me to jump back Overall leader Yates lost less time to But France’s Thibaut Pinot lost more 3. Domenico Pozzovivo (BAH) +3:11 record books to see that their assistants, although Woods has into the top ten,” said BMC rider Dennis second placed defending champion Du- than three minutes on the stage winner to 4. Chris Froome (SKY) +3:50 Ryder Cup pedigree speaks for stated his intention to play on the who is now sixth overall fi ve minutes be- moulin than many observers had pre- drop to fi fth overall 1min 08sec off Italy’s 5. Thibaut Pinot (FDJ) +4:19 itself. Each of them has played team as well. hind Yates. “I really wanted to come here dicted. Domenico Pozzovivo who occupies the 6. Rohan Dennis (BMC) +5:04 both home and away so they are The qualifi cation campaign for to win a stage. “I felt good in the fi rst half. I had a good fi nal podium position. 7. Miguel Angel Lopez (AST) +5:37 well versed in the contest and the 2018 European Team con- “I just have to hold on for as long as rhythm,” said Mitchelton-Scott rider Today’s 17th stage over 155km from 8. Pello Bilbao (AST) +6:02 know how to handle the special cludes at the Made in Denmark possible. There’s going to be guys trying Yates. Riva del Garda to Iseo, east of Milan 9. Richard Carapaz (MOV) +6:07 and unique atmosphere.” tournament at Bjorn’s home to do crazy things in the last week.” “I was trying to hold on to my position. should suit the sprinters. 10. George Bennett (LNL) +7:01 The quartet could still qualify Silkeborg club on September 2.

SPOTLIGHT FORMULA 1 Splendid wins for Garvey Lions, Redco in Ramadan cricket Williams head to Monaco

By Sports Reporter Doha with more pain in prospect

Reuters NOT GOOD ENOUGH edco rode a fi ne Man- London Williams clambered back to of-the-Match perform- fi nish third overall in 2014 and ance by Rasmi (two 2015, impressive for a privately- wickets and 44 runs) to t has been 15 years since owned family team operating beatR Friends XI by four wickets Williams last won in Mo- on a far smaller budget than the in the Ramadan Cricket Tourna- naco, with Juan Pablo Mon- manufacturers, and have been ment for the B and C Divisions. toya in 2003 after teammate fi fth for the past two years. The Qatar Cricket Associa- IRalf Schumacher started from But they have plenty to work tion, under the presidency of pole position, but scoring even on before they can start climb- Yousef Jeham al-Kuwari, is host- Tharuka of Garvey Lions and Rasmi (right) of Redco were adjudged a point would be something this ing back up the table again, ing the event in all the divisions Man of the Match in their respective matches. weekend. with the Mercedes-powered to promote the sport and keep Once a dominant team of car unbalanced and hard to the players in competitive touch. Saif also chipped in with 27 in 26 BRIEF SCORES champions, with nine construc- handle. At the Asian Town Cricket balls, including two sixes. Wa- Friends XI 153 for six in 18 tors’ crowns and 114 grand prix The lack of performance, de- Stadium, Friends XI ran up a de- seem contributed 26 in 11 balls overs (Javed 55, Said Mohamed wins, Williams return to the Williams drivers Lance Stroll (left), Sergey Sirotkin (centre), and spite having the best engines manding 153 for six in 18 overs with a six and three fours. 38 not out; Inam 2 for 17, Rasmi principality as tail-enders — reserve and development driver Robert Kubica during the launch of available, is also likely to have a with Javed leading them with In another Group D match, 2 for 42) lost to Redco 156 for last overall and with just four the car in February this year. (Reuters) commercial impact. Title spon- 55 in 42 balls in Group D match. Garvey Lions crushed Al Khor six in 17 overs (Rasmi 44, Saif 27, points from fi ve races. sors Martini have already an- He smashed four sixes and three Community by eight wickets, Waseem 26; Said Mohamed 2 for While that is better than 2013, dian team mate Lance Stroll was excited about. nounced they are off at the end boundaries. Said Mohamed fi red building their 127-run chase on 30) by four wickets. Man of the when Williams failed to score 11th of 14. “I think what we’ve seen is of the year. four sixes to get 38 not out in 15 an opening 69-run stand be- Match: Rasmi (Redco) in the opening nine races and Sirotkin has yet to open his ac- that the issues we have are bet- “We all carry responsibil- balls and Saeed made 24 in 20 tween Gethan and Isura (24). Al Khor Community 126 all ended the campaign with a mere count while all four points to date ter and worse at diff erent cir- ity. The car isn’t good enough, balls. After Gethan was out for 47 in out in 18 overs (Majid 26, M Hayat fi ve points, the slump has still were produced by Stroll in one cuits,” said technical head Paddy it’s not what it should be,” said Inam and Rasmi shared four 32 balls with three sixes and fi ve 19, Fawaz 19; Tharuka 3 for 23, been a shock to the system and race — in Azerbaijan last month. Lowe after the race in Barcelona, Lowe in Barcelona. “There are wickets. fours, Nuwano added an unbeat- Sumedha 2 for 14) lost to Garvey there seems to be no quick fi x. Processional Monaco off ers a track he described as particu- some issues with it, which for- Redco had a second-wicket en 30, including three fours, to Lions 127 for two in 15.1 overs At Spain’s Circuit de Cat- little — for the team that took larly unforgiving. tunately we think we under- partnership of 51 runs, shared by secure the target in 15.1 overs. (Gethan 47, Nuwano 30 not out; alunya the weekend before last, Alan Jones, Keke Rosberg, Nel- “Monaco will be another stand and we’re very busy doing Rasmi and Jahangir (17). Rasmi Tharuka of Garvey Lions was Aziz 1 for 4, Kanan 1 for 9) by Russian rookie Sergey Sirotkin son Piquet, Nigel Mansell, Alain thing altogether. I’m not go- a lot of work to fi x those issues. went on to hit 44 with three sixes adjudged Man of the Match for eight wickets. Man of the Match: was last of those still running at Prost, Damon Hill and Jacques ing to predict where that lands, “We’re not writing off this and four boundaries in 38 balls. three wickets and 13 runs. Tharuka (Garvey Lions) the chequered fl ag while Cana- Villeneuve to titles — to get too we’ll have to see.” season,” he added.

Wednesday, May 23, 2018 GULF TIMES SPORT

TENNIS COMMENT Rosewall expects to Serena could get hand Nadal trophy then head home

Reuters land Garros. Melbourne RECORD IN DANGER Toting a wooden racket on a clay Wimbledon seeding, ifty years after accept- practice court at Melbourne Park ing his second Coupe des yesterday, Rosewall was hon- Mousquetaires, Austral- oured by Tennis Australia in a ian great Ken Rosewall low-key ceremony on the gold- willF bestow the French Open tro- en anniversary of the 1968 win, phy on the men’s singles cham- which was also the fi rst grand pion next month and sees only slam of the professional era. despite French snub one grateful player ready to claim While eight players have won it — Rafael Nadal. more slams than Rosewall, the “Unless anything unforeseen man nicknamed “Muscles” — ‘If you are forced out... whether it be maternity or injury, you need to be protected’ happens to Rafa — his reputation an ironic reference to his lack of is scaring everybody — so I’m them — collected his haul despite just going to go over there and being ineligible to play the four give him the trophy and come majors for 11 years after turning home,” the eight-times grand professional in 1957. slam champion told Reuters. Upon returning to the slams The 83-year-old has been im- as a 33-year-old, Rosewall fi lled pressed by Nadal’s rampaging his boots with three more titles claycourt season, which included following his 1968 triumph to an eighth Italian Open title over go with the four he claimed from the weekend and the heist of the 1953-56. He remains the oldest world number one ranking from men’s grand slam champion in Roger Federer. the professional era after lifting Nadal will head to Paris in the 1972 Australian Open trophy search of a record-extending 11th at the age of 37. title and his 17th grand slam win Federer won a record-ex- overall, with Federer watching tending 20th grand slam title at from the sidelines. Melbourne Park in January and The 31-year-old Spaniard’s a successful title defence there rivals, young guns and battle- next year would see him eclipse scarred veterans among them, Rosewall’s mark of grand slam would be playing for second if longevity. the champion could stay on two “Yes, the record could be (in legs, said Rosewall. danger),” Rosewall said with a “He looks like he’s enjoying his tinge of regret. “There’s no doubt tennis. He’s had a few physical that Roger’s going to be in good problems and it seems like he’s form, he always enjoys coming recovered from that,” added the to Melbourne. Still, I’d be sorry Australian, a left-hander like the to lose that title. But if I lose Spaniard. “Right now he’s play- anything to Roger Federer, I’d be ing as well as he’s ever played. quite happy.” “He’s the one to win it.” Nadal turns 32 in June but In the era of Federer, who will could ultimately trump them all turn 37 in August, tennis players given his unfailing love for the have been ageing like fi ne wine. game, said Rosewall. Federer’s Fans have been spoilt, their cups record haul, he felt, was also un- running over with the long-time der threat from the marauding rivalry between the Swiss great Mallorcan. and Nadal, even as ‘Big Four’ con- “There’s a good chance he will temporaries Novak Djokovic and (catch Federer)... I think Rafa’s In this June 3, 2016, picture, Serena Williams plays a backhand against Kiki Bertens during their French Open semi-final in Paris. (Below) Chris Evert. (Reuters) Andy Murray have fallen by an going to have to decide that he injury-induced wayside. won’t play quite so much,” Rose- Reuters While the French Open sticks rigidly to stopped playing. Rosewall also came from an wall added. “He’s probably got to Bengaluru rankings, Wimbledon’s tennis sub-com- impressive vintage, and had to realise that he’s got to save himself mittee allows itself some wiggle room. WRONG, SAYS EVERT beat compatriot Rod Laver, the at some other time on some other The men’s seedings is usually based on Meanwhile, fellow American and seven- 11-times grand slam champion, surface. That aside, there’s no rea- erena Williams could still be ATP rankings in conjunction with a for- time French Open champion, Chris Evert to win the 1968 French Open ti- son why he can’t win a number seeded at this year’s Wimbledon mula based on grasscourt results over the said the French Open organisers were tle, 15 years after his fi rst at Ro- more big tournaments.” championships despite being previous two years. In contrast, the wom- wrong to stick rigidly to the WTA ranking snubbed by French Open organis- en’s seedings usually follow the WTA list and not seed Williams. ers,S the All England Club said yesterday. rankings list but can be tweaked by the All Evert believes the protected ranking The American is expected to play at England Club in special circumstances. rule should extend to seedings. Roland Garros next week, where she has “The seeding order follows the WTA “It’s wrong, they should protect play- won the title three times, but without be- ranking list, except where in the opinion ers,” Evert, who will be working for ing seeded she could conceivably meet of the committee, a change is necessary broadcaster ESPN during the Paris fort- champion Jelena Ostapenko in the fi rst to produce a balanced draw,” is the All night, told Reuters by telephone. round. England Club’s offi cial line on its website. “Not just for her but for the other The French Tennis Federation (FFT) Williams has already benefi ted from women who could play her in the fi rst confi rmed yesterday that its seedings this rule in the past as in 2011 she was round. She could play Halep in the fi rst would be based on the latest WTA rank- ranked 25th before the start of Wimble- round. It’s about protecting the fi eld too. ings. don but seeded seventh for the champi- “It’s not like you decide to take a year off . Williams, who has won 23 grand slam onships. while she was on maternity leave. I mean if you are forced out of the game for singles titles, is ranked a lowly 453rd after The Wimbledon seedings committee Despite her lowly ranking she will be a specifi c reason, whether it be maternity or returning to action this year following the will meet to discuss the order of the 32 able to compete at Roland Garros under injury, you need to be protected. birth of her daughter last September. seeds on June 26. the WTA’s protected ranking rule, which “You don’t have to put her back at She has not played a tournament since The tournament begins on July 2. allows athletes returning from long ab- number one because she left at number Miami in March and pulled out of the Williams has won Wimbledon seven sences to gain entry into tournaments one but try to fi gure out some sort of hap- Spain’s Rafael Nadal poses with the trophy after winning the Italian claycourt events in Madrid and Rome. times but missed last year’s tournament using the ranking they had when they py medium where it’s fair for all.” Open in Rome on Sunday. (AFP)

SPOTLIGHT Al Sailiya to play four friendlies during camp As part of preparations for the 2018-19 Strong start to volleyball, football season, Al Sailiya will play four friendlies during their camp in Tabarka, Tunisia, from July 1-23. The team management has reposed its faith in Tunisian coach Sami Trabelsi, who will start finalising the play- competitions in Aspire’s RSF ers for the new season in which they hope to put up a better performance than they By Sports Reporter with four matches between and sports medicine hospi- did this time. Al Sailiya stayed in the fourth Doha teams Zaharias (0) and Oore- tal and member of AZF, position for long, behind eventual cham- doo (2), Ivaq (2) and A Team launched a new ‘Healthy Ra- pions Al Duhail, Al Sadd and Al Rayyan, (0), Sri Lankans Friends Club madan’ campaign to increase but could end up only sixth in the QNB spire Zone Foun- (1) and Riders (2), and Eagles awareness of the importance Stars League with 28 points. A series of dation (AZF) wel- (2) and Bullets (0). of adopting an active and negative results impacted The Peregrines’ comed hundreds of Other activities due to take healthy lifestyle during the downward spiral in the second phase of fans as they rushed place in the Aspire Dome, the holy month. competition. toA Aspire Zone’s indoor and world’s largest indoor multi- Aspetar will also share outdoor pitches on Mon- purpose dome, include a one- short health awareness vid- QOC’s Ramadan day evening to participate in day table tennis competition eos through its social media the volleyball and football for people with special needs, channels, and will engage and football tourney tournaments, which are part which has been organised interact with the audience continues in style of AZF’s annual Ramadan with the Qatar Paralympic through the Facebook and Sports Festival, a two-week Committee, on Wednesday, Instagram Story feature. The competitions of the Qatar Olympic sporting spectacular that the Aspire Futsal Tournament Meanwhile, Aspetar will Committee (QOC) Ramadan Football boasts the largest number of for employees and a two-day organise a sports competi- Tournament in its 12th edition continued in sporting events in Qatar dur- men’s indoor hockey tourna- tion for AZF employees as style on Monday. Two matches were held ing the Holy Month. ment, both starting tomor- part of its ‘Step into Health’ as President’s Off ice defeated Secretariat Four teams met at 9:30pm row. programme during Ramadan. General 10-0 , while Human Resources and on Aspire Zone’s outdoor From Saturday, the fi ve- This competition will cel- Administrative Services Department edged warm-up track to compete day women’s volleyball tour- ebrate participants who walk past Sports Aff airs Department. Two more on the fi rst day of the men’s nament will begin. This will the furthest distances each matches will be played today as President’s football tournament, which be followed by the six-day week, and uses a smartphone off ice will take on Financial Aff airs while runs until Monday. In the fi rst men’s basketball tourna- app to calculate the number Secretariat General will shake hands with match, team ‘Al Shabaab’ se- ment, starting on Sunday, of steps taken. Sports Aff airs Department. The tournament cured a 9-1 win over team and the four-day cricket Those interested in tak- began on Sunday where Human Resources ‘Qatar’, while team ‘Al Taraji’ tournament from May 29 on- ing part in the Ramadan and Administrative Services Department laboured to a 3-2 victory over wards. The women’s gym has Sports Festival can register trounced Secretariat General 7-2 while team ‘Diamond’. also allocated fi tness classes by visiting www.aspirezone. Sports Aff airs Department recorded a 2-1 The men’s volleyball com- to give young women be- qa/rsf2018. The RSF 2018 is victory over Financial Aff airs Department. petition also saw great partici- tween the ages of 9 and 14 an sponsored by Ooredoo Qatar It’s worth mentioning that Sports Aff airs pation from local community enjoyable and active experi- (Offi cial Sponsor) and Saleh Department were winners of the last four members. The competition ence during Ramadan. Al Hamad Al Mana Company, editions of tournament. kicked off on Monday evening Aspetar, the orthopaedic Nissan Qatar (Main Partner). Action from the first day’s men’s volleyball competition in AZF’s Ramadan Sports Festival.