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TUESDAY 23 FEBRUARY 2021 England’s WTC hopes hang by hair as India pink-ball Test awaits We’ve got a little bit of experience with the pink ball but this is just the second Test in India, the first one in February as well so we don’t know how it is going to behave.

English fast bowler James Anderson Sport |09

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: LAST 16 Kick off at 11:00pm time: SS Lazio vs Bayern Munich, Atlético Madrid vs Chelsea QSL: Sensational Al Sadd win thriller against Al Arabi, inch closer to title FAWAD HUSSAIN Al Arabi team a lot, but they Al Sadd's Samtiago THE PENINSULA relied on wasting time Cazorla and Ahmed throughout the match, and Fathi Abdoulla vie for When the going gets tough, the therefore the victory in the last the ball during their tough get going. minutes was well deserved.” QNB Stars League Al Sadd lived up to the He added: “All competitors match played at Al Sadd phrase last night when they face Al Sadd with passion and Stadium yesterday. rallied twice to snatch a tense this make challenge tough for 3-2 victory Al Arabi, thanks us. I am proud of my players for YESTERDAY'S RESULTS to quick goals by Baghdad their performance in this Al Gharafa 1-2 Al Duhail Bounedjah and Santiago match.” Al Kharaitiyat 0-3 Al Rayyan Cazorla late in the match. Al Arabi, playing without Leading the match 2-1, Al the supervision of coach Heimir Al Sadd 3-2 Al Arabi Arabi were sensing an upset Hallgrimsson – tested positive TODAY'S FIXTURES victory over Al Sadd – still for coronavirus last week - Al Ahli vs Umm Salal unbeaten in the season – but matched their spirited Amir Cup At Al Ahli Stadium (16:45) Bounedjah’s 90th minute final performance in which they header and Cazorla’s stunning gave scare to The Wolves before Al Sailiya vs Al Khor shot in second minute of going down fighting 2-1 last At Al Ahli Stadium (19:15) stoppage time shocked The December. vs Qatar SC Dream Team as The Wolves Veteran striker Sebastian At Al Arabi Stadium (19:15) moved to just one win away Soria scored for Al Arabi in the from sealing the prestigious 10th minute, which was can- QNB Stars League (QSL) title. celled by his former Al Rayyan With five more rounds to go, team-mate in Al Sadd, 47 points, retained their the 63rd minute. Youssef 13-point lead over second- Msakni regained the lead in the placed Al Duhail, who edged Al 77th minute before Bounedjah Gharafa 2-1 earlier in the day. and Cazorla’s heroics secured Yesterday’s Qatar Derby at 15th win of the season for Al their backyard was arguably Sadd. this season’s toughest test for The Wolves, missing star Hernandez-coached Al striker owing to a Soria smashed a brilliant move. It was Soria’s his first goal Al Sadd finally earned an Al Arabi made a blunder by Sadd, who went into the game two-match ban, started in their header after receiving a cross of the season. equaliser with Tabata’s slight leaving Bounedjah unmarked as with 63 goals under their belt traditional attacking style but from Mehrdad Keshrazi. The Al Sadd, dominating the first touch in a goalmouth melee, fol- the Algerian headed the ball from 16 outings. they were far from their best in Uruguayan went low to connect with 64 per cent of ball pos- lowing a move led by South comfortably – for his 19th goal Al Sadd coach Xavi said: “It the first half. The Dream Team, the ball from close range giving session, made several attacks for Korean star Nam Tae Hee. of the season – following a free was a crazy match in which we on the other hand, looked com- goalkeeper Meshaal JAissa an equaliser but failed to level Seven minutes after his goal, hit from Cazorla. deserved to win. We respect the posed in their attacks. Barsham no chance stop the the match before half-time. They Xavi replaced Tabata with Jung The Spaniard then scored made at least seven attempts but Woo-young in a double change the winner from an angular shot, had only two shots on target in following a couple of changes leaving Al Arabi stunned. the first half. by Al Arabi’s assistant coach Earlier at Qatar SC Stadium, Adding to their disap- Elexander Son Freyr. Mohammed Muntari (19 minute) pointment was a yellow card to With 13 minutes remaining, and Eduardo Pereira Rodrigues coach Xavi for arguing with Msakni unleashed a stunning – Dudu – (44 minute) goals referee Abdulrahman Ibrahim shot from outside the box with helped defending champions Al Al Jassim. the ball landing in the right Duhail beat Al Gharafa. Jonathan Meanwhile, Xavi sent fresh corner as Al Arabi regained the Kodjia (24 minute) scored for Al legs in and lead. Barsham made a long dive Gharafa. in the second but he was still far away from The Red Knights consoli- half, replacing and the ball. dated their second spot with 34 respectively. As Soon Al Sadd created a points – 7 points clear of third- Al Sadd looked for the equaliser, chance but keeper Abunada placed Qatar SC, who will take Msakni was shown a yellow card blocked a shot by Tae-hee on Al Wakrah in their Week 17 for a rash challenge against before making another match today. Cazorla, four minutes before the impressive save from Also yesterday, Al Rayyan hour mark. Bounedjah’s header. thrashed Al Kharaitiyat 3-0 at Soon, Hasan Al Al Arabi could have doubled the same venue after goals from Haydos fired a shot from dis- the lead in a counter attack but Gabriel Mercado (46 + 1), Naif tance with Al Arabi goalkeeper Mohamed Salah Elneel’s attempt Abdulraheem Alhadhrami (50th Mahmoud Abunada making a missed the target, three minutes minute) and Al Duhail's Dudu and AL Gharafa's diving save. Moments later, before time. (85th minute). Ahmed Mohamed Alganehi in Bounedjah missed a chance as It was when the drama Al Rayyan jumped to third action during their Round 17 match his shot from inside the box went unfolded as Al Sadd fought back spot with a tally with 28 points at Al Gharafa Stadium yesterday. wide with just goalkeeper to with two goals within a span of while Al Kharaitiyat remained beat. three minutes. on the bottom with only 6 points. FIVB World Tour: Stage set for Beach Volleyball Cup

THE PENINSULA – DOHA Eleven of the teams in the Doha A total of 25 teams from 14 countries will be in the field at the FIVB World Beach Volleyball Cup are ranked on Tour's Doha Beach Volleyball Cup the FIVB World Tour list led by getting under way today at the Al Qatar’s Cherif Younousse Samba Gharrafa Beach Complex. and Ahmed Tijan. With three World The event kicks off with four Tour medals to their credit in 29 pairs advancing to the main draw from the qualification rounds. FIVB starts together, Cherif and Qatar is hosting an FIVB Beach Ahmed are ranked 13th Volleyball World Tour event for the internationally. eighth time and the Doha Beach Vol- leyball Cup is a 1-star men’s-only tournament. Doha will also host a Qatar's Cherif 4-star men’s and women’s event Younousse from March 8-12. trains ahead Following today's qualifiers, the of the Doha 16-team main draw for the Doha Beach Beach Volleyball Cup begins with medals to their credit in 29 FIVB the United States. Qatar), Africa (Gambia, Egypt, Volleyball pool play tomorrow. The top three starts together, Cherif and Ahmed Also competing in the Doha Morocco), Europe (Poland, Russia, Cup at Al finishers in each of the four groups are ranked 13th internationally. Beach Volleyball Cup are Jackson Switzerland), NORCECA (Canada and Gharafa Beach will advance to the elimination Six other teams in the Doha Henriquez and Jesus Villafañe of the United States) and South America yesterday. bracket where two rounds will be Beach Volleyball Cup field have FIVB Venezuela, who competed in one (Venezuela). played on Thursday. medals to their credit, including World Tour event together since The last World Tour event was Friday’s schedule features the Anton Kislytsyn/Daniil Kuvichka and their last full season on the interna- played this past September in semi-final and medal matches. Alexey Gusev/Pavel Shustrov of tional circuit in 2016. Lithuania where teams from Estonia Eleven of the teams in the Doha Russia, Yves Haussener/Quentin Henriquez and Villafañe will start (Kusti Nolvak Mart Tiisaar) and Italy Beach Volleyball Cup are ranked on Metral of Switzerland, Murat Gig- play in the qualifier on Tuesday as (Margherita Bianchin/Claudia the FIVB World Tour list led by inoglu/Volkan Gogtepe and Selcuk all five FIVB confederations are Scampoli) topped the men’s and Qatar’s Cherif Younousse Samba and Sekerci/Sefa Urlu of Turkey and scheduled to have teams competing women’s podiums, respectively. Ahmed Tijan. With three World Tour Travis Mewhirter/Adam Roberts of in the event - Asia (Lebanon, Oman, TUESDAY 23 FEBRUARY 2021 SPORT 11 QFA, ASEAN Football Federation hold 2nd Digital Learning webinar

THE PENINSULA – DOHA number of workshops and webinars, senior members of each organization, this pandemic. It is a unique opportunity within the framework of this as well as representatives from Aus- to strengthen relations and pave the As part of the Digital Learning series, agreement. tralia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, way for future cooperation between the Qatar Football Association and ASEAN The webinar program includes Indonesia, Laos, Philippines, Malaysia, QFA and the ASEAN Football Feder- Football Federation will hold a second several lectures to be delivered by a Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Timor ation,” Al Mohannadi said. workshop starting today until group of internationally known experts Leste and Vietnam. AFF President Major General Khiev Thursday, aiming to raise awareness in this field. These lectures will focus Saoud Al Mohannadi, QFA’s Vice- Sameth said: “We also look forward to of – and to combat – fraud, match on the importance of understanding President said, “Qatar Football Asso- the session on Qatar’s experience in fixing and illegal betting activities that the global impact of match fixing. Addi- ciation and the ASEAN Football Fed- organizing international events during distort the integrity of football. tionally, it will promote skills in eration are honoured to organise this the pandemic which will further The series takes place within the reporting related issues, raise interaction and enable responsible series of webinars. We are thrilled to enhance the competition’s safe man- context of strengthening cooperation awareness of the threats posed by teamwork between all interested work together, once again, to progress agement measures put in place by our and activating the Memorandum of sports betting to international football, parties, including clubs and supporters’ our plans for promoting mutual con- Member Associations. Their excellent Understanding between the football and propose solutions including associations – not least in the area of sensus on the importance of capacity organization of the FIFA Club World federations, as well as reflecting the enhanced information exchange and securing safe access routes for people building in the ASEAN football sector, Cup earlier this month is testament to urgent need to share knowledge on the well-defined common goals. with special needs. especially during COVID-19 their exceptional ability to manage a latest developments in this area. The second day of the webinar will On its third day, the webinar will pandemic.” major event under challenging condi- This is the second consecutive discuss the security and safety of shed light on Qatar’s experience in “The second webinar in this series tions. I am confident with the world- webinar to be held by the QFA, with sporting events, during which partic- Organising International Football emphasises the importance of interna- class speakers we have over the next the participation of all 12 AFF Member ipants will study examples from the Tournaments in Light of the COVID-19 tional cooperation in all economic three days, this webinar will be another Associations. Like the first, it is part of English Premier League – providing Pandemic, and the precautionary sectors, including the sports industry. successful session. I would like to thank a new digital education series insights that will help in managing measures it took to guarantee the That’s why it is crucial to create an Qatar FA and the officials from QFA developed in partnership with the AFF policy and building supportive rela- success of several football events in opportunity for many football federa- and AFF who were involved in organ- in 2019. It is expected that 2021 will tionships in leading institutions. In spite of the pandemic. tions to interact, learn from each other izing this online workshop series,” see further joint projects, including a addition, it will discuss the means of The webinar will bring together and enhance their ability to overcome Sameth said. Bayern ‘almost unplayable’ but Lazio Atletico can bring out capable of causing upset: Inzaghi the best in REUTERS – ROME Chelsea, Lazio coach Simone Inzaghi conceded that Bayern Munich are almost unplayable ahead of the two sides’ Champions League last 16 says Tuchel first leg in Rome today, but believes his team are still capable of springing a surprise. REUTERS The holders travel to Italy having won six titles in the past nine months, while pro- Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel gressing to the knockout phase of this sea- expects today's Champions League son’s competition after amassing 16 points last-16 first leg meeting with from a possible 18 in the group stage. leaders Atletico Madrid to be a However, Inzaghi believed his side can massive test of his team’s mental cause an upset. strength, the German said on “We know that they are almost Monday. unplayable, but even in the past we started Chelsea are unbeaten in seven underdogs and then surprised everyone,” matches in all competitions since Inzaghi told a news conference. Bayerm Munich Tuchel was named as manager to “We are mature, we have played many players taking part replace club great Frank Lampard, finals in addition to the quarter-finals of the in a practice session but he said the Londoners will have Europa League. We will try to do our best as ahead of today's to be at their best against Diego we always have. Champions League Simeone’s battling side. “The lack of Champions League expe- match against Lazio. “It’s a big test. They’re an expe- rience? I think we can cope with it. Matches PIC: TWITTER/@ rienced club at this level, (have) an like the one tomorrow night are why we love FCBAYERN experienced coach. Hopefully it football so much.” One ray of hope for Inzaghi brings out the best in us,” Tuchel has been Bayern’s form since returning from told a news conference. their Club World Cup success in Qatar earlier “We’ll do things our way, they’ll this month. We need to be alert from the start do things their way. It’s clear what While Lazio have won seven of their last you get when you play Atletico - eight Serie A games, Bayern drew against fighting, experience, a team with a Arminia Bielefeld and lost to Eintracht against Lazio, says Bayern’s Flick good mentality.” Tuchel will be Frankfurt in their past two Bundesliga without experienced defender matches. Thiago Silva with the Brazilian “Bayern have just become world cham- REUTERS – MUNICH been the case this season. “We know against Frankfurt were not good. But recovering from a knock but mid- pions, but in the last two league games they what has happened in the past days,” we can be satisfied with the second fielder Kai Havertz and forward have had a draw and a defeat,” the Italian Bayern Munich will be alert from the Flick said on the two matches last half,” Flick said. Christian Pulisic are in coach added. “Previously, though, they had start of their Champions League last week. “Against Lazio I want us to be “When the Champions League contention. won six in a row. 16 first leg at Lazio today to avoid the there as a team from the start. starts we have to be in top form. But Atletico were due to host the “More than Bayern’s weaknesses, I’m mistakes they made in their recent “We have an idea of how we want looking at the past weeks there has match in Madrid before it was working on Lazio’s strengths. We want to cling two Bundesliga games, coach Hansi to play and we have to do that from been a lot of matches, a lot of strain moved to Romania’s National Arena to the qualification in any way we can." Flick said yesterday. the start.” on the team and some players as Spain banned arrivals from Bayern have won six titles in the Flick, who is missing several key missing.” Britain, with the exception of pas- past nine months but have stumbled players to injury or COVID-19 infec- Bayern won the Club World Cup sengers who are residents or cit- in their last two league matches with tions including Corentin Tolisso and earlier this month before returning izens of Spain or Andorra, due to The lack of Champions League experience? I a 3-3 draw against visiting Arminia Thomas Mueller, needs some good from Qatar for two league games in the COVID-19 pandemic. think we can cope with it. Matches like the one Bielefeld and a 2-1 defeat on Saturday news after seeing a seven-point lead six games and then a trip to Rome this “Yeah, it’s a disadvantage for tomorrow night are why we love football so by Eintracht Frankfurt. in the Bundesliga slashed to two in week. Atletico to lose their home ground,” much: Lazio coach Simone Inzaghi Both times Bayern fell two goals less than a week. “I am positive. It is a special game Tuchel added. behind and had to battle their way “I will not be using any excuses. and I expect that the team is especially Tuchel hauled off Callum back into the game, as has so often The first half against Bielefeld and motivated,” Flick added. Hudson-Odoi after bringing on the England international as a substitute in Saturday’s 1-1 draw at South- Chelsea players leaving for Madrid yesterday ahead ampton but the manager said the City’s unbeaten record will of their Champions League clash against Atletico winger would travel to Bucharest Madrid. PIC: TWITTER/@CHELSEAFC for the game. “We decided to speak to him in front of the group. Was it the right be broken one day: Guardiola decision? I don’t know. We did it in front of a group because it’s not a REUTERS – MANCHESTER Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling big thing,” Tuchel said of his celebrates scoring their first goal decision in the Southampton game. Manchester City manager against Arsenal in their Premier Pep Guardiola said he is League match on Monday. surprised with his side’s stellar form while other It’s a big test. They’re an Premier League teams experienced club at this level, (have) are dropping points but an experienced coach. Hopefully it believes their unbeaten streak will be broken one brings out the best in us. We’ll do day. things our way, they’ll do things City are on an their way. It’s clear what you get 18-match unbeaten run when you play Atletico - fighting, in all competitions fol- experience, a team with a good lowing Sunday’s 1-0 win at Arsenal and have taken mentality: Chelsea manager control of the title race Thomas Tuchel with a 10-point lead at the top of the table. Guardiola’s side, who suffered their last defeat in November, have 59 points from 25 games after Raheem Sterling’s early goal were consistent over the past two a return. “I’m looking forward to handed them their 13th successive months. People talk and talk putting him in the side,” the league victory. about the record and the victories Spaniard said. “We cannot forget “The record will be broken but to do this you have to win that he was a long time injured one day, we will lose games,” these types of games many, many and you only get rhythm when Guardiola said after the win at the times.” you play minutes. Emirates Stadium. Guardiola said City’s record “As soon as I can, he will play “I’m surprised and impressed goalscorer Sergio Aguero, who because he deserves it and I want and so when everyone is suffering has not played since Jan. 3 due to it. I want to say for him to keep in this world, all the teams in the a combination of injuries and working hard because his time is league are dropping points, we COVID-19, was edging closer to coming.” 10 SPORT TUESDAY 23 FEBRUARY 2021

Analysis Djokovic right to focus on Federer, Nadal and Slams

AP -

It didn’t take long for to make his intentions clear: All that matters to him from here on out is catching Roger Federer and in the standings. Forget about winning other, run-of-the-mill tournaments or playing enough to retain the No. 1 ranking. There is one, primary goal for the 33-year-old from Serbia. He wants to keep adding to his 18 major championships - he reached that number with No. 9 at the on Sunday - until he no longer trails Federer and Nadal, who share the men’s record of 20. “They’ve made history already. They made a tremendous mark in our sport,” Djokovic said. “Whether I think about winning more Australian Open champion Serbia’s Novak Djokovic poses with the trophy during a photo shoot at Brighton Beach in Melbourne yesterday. Slams and breaking records? Of course, I do. And most of my Djokovic won his Australian Open crown on Sunday. attention and my energy from this day forward, until I retire from , is going to be directed (at) majors, trying to win more major trophies.” Which is perfectly fine. There is no need for pretence. Wilander, Laver applaud And there is absolutely no requirement that he show up to compete more often than he really wants or in places other than where he really wants. If all that matters to Djokovic from a tennis standpoint is accumulating Slams, and playing less frequently will also protect his body - he had surgery on his right elbow three Djokovic's win in Australia years ago; his 2021 Australian Open nearly was derailed by what he said was a torn abdominal muscle - that is his prerogative. It isn’t much different from what Federer himself or 23-time REUTERS - SYDNEY Australian Open champion Serbia’s Novak Djokovic poses showcased his incredible major champion , for that matter, have done for with the trophy during a photo shoot at Brighton Beach. mental strength and a bewil- years. Novak Djokovic’s “unbe- dering array of shots. “I think 99.9% of players - kids that get a racket in their hands lievable” performance to win “It was an unbelievable per- - start dreaming about what they want to achieve. It’s a Grand his ninth Australian Open final formance,” Swede Wilander Slam, winning a major,” Djokovic explained after his commanding was a statement to the young told Eurosport. “That’s a huge performance in a 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 victory over in guns looking to break the stran- statement to (the next gener- the final at . glehold of the “Big Three” on ation), to us, to the whole world. “I mean, I don’t feel like I’m old or tired or anything like that,” Grand Slam titles, according to Novak is just so complete these he said. “But I know that biologically and realistically, things are seven-times major winner Mats days, he can hit those little drop different than they were 10 years ago for me.” Wilander. shots, he can come to the net, CONNECTED TO THAT: His latest triumph at the Australian Arguments over which of he’s got choices.” Open came with the additional bonus of assuring a stay atop the Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal or Former US Open champion ATP rankings until at least March 8. Djokovic are the greatest men’s Andy Roddick was not always That is when he will reach 311 weeks at No. 1 for his career, champion of all time might rage a big fan of Djokovic the man - one more than Federer’s total, another aim Djokovic made clear long after they hang up their once almost coming to blows mattered to him. rackets, but at Melbourne Park’s with him in the dressing room “When you are going for No. 1 rankings, you kind of have to the Serbian is - but was left in awe of his per- be playing the entire season, and you have to be playing well; you in a class of his own. formance at Melbourne Park. have to play all the tournaments. My goals will adapt and will shift Djokovic on Sunday “Djoker is so good,” the a little bit, which means that I will have to adjust, also, my cal- brushed aside a month of con- American posted on Twitter. endar,” Djokovic said. “Not have to, but I will have an opportunity troversy and a painful muscle “He’s routined great, great to do that, which, as a father and a husband, I’m really looking tear in his abdomen to thrash players at the Aussie Open over forward to.” Russian young gun Daniil the years. There is nowhere to One part of the calculus is that no one knows, of course, Medvedev in straight sets and attack him on the court. It’s like whether Federer, who hasn’t played in more than a year after extend his own record for titles not being able to hit a boxer, but two knee operations and turns 40 in August, or Nadal, 34, will won on the famous blue carpet. that boxer also has knockout win more majors - or how many more. “Brilliant work on another power in both hands. Props.” It bears repeating that until Federer, Nadal and Djokovic came Australian title,” Rod Laver, the along, no man had won more than Pete Sampras’ 14 Grand Slam Australian after whom the titles. stadium court is named, said in NOVAK DJOKOVIC Here we are, less than 20 years after Sampras retired, and message to Djokovic on Twitter. he’s been surpassed by a trio of men, and by a lot of majors. “Under so much pressure in “We’re talking about some Cyborgs of tennis, in a good way,” such difficult times. You con- Age: 33 (1987.05.22) Medvedev said, referring to the longevity and unprecedented tinue to show the world what a Turned Pro: 2003 success of the guys known as the Big Three. “They’re just great champion you are. There Weight: 170lbs(77kg) unbelievable.” was no doubt in your mind Height: 6'2"(188cm) Djokovic’s coach, 2001 Wimbledon champion Goran Ivani- tonight - Daniil felt the full force sevic, predicted Nadal will claim “one more, maybe two” cham- of your will. Sublime 9!” Birthplace: Belgrade, Serbia pionships at the French Open, where he collected a 13th last Medvedev was the brightest Residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco October. of the younger talents looking Plays: Right-Handed, Two-Handed That is the only instance of a man owning more singles titles to break into the Grand Slam Backhand from one major than Djokovic’s haul in Australia. Federer’s high winners’ circle in Melbourne is eight at Wimbledon. this year and reached the final Coach: Marian Vajda, Goran All have career Grand Slams. on the back of a 20-match Ivanisevic “Roger and Rafa inspire me. That’s something that I’ve said winning streak that included Titles: 82 before. I’ll say it again. I mean, I think as long as they go, I’ll go,” victories over the best players Prize Money Singles & Doubles Djokovic said. in the game. “In a way, it’s like a race (of) who plays tennis more, I guess, The 25-year-old Russian combined: $147,751,252 and who wins more. It’s a competition between us in all areas. was made to look plain ordinary Win-loss: 943-192 But I think that’s the very reason why we are who we are, because by Djokovic in the final, we do drive each other, we motivate each other, we push each however, as the Serbian other to the limit.” Australian Open beats the odds to lay out a blueprint

REUTERS - SYDNEY one of the longest and strictest taken on him in an interview with local lockdowns in the world to all but Australian Open media on Sunday. and Novak Djokovic eradicate community trans- champion Japan’s In order to assuage athletes not were rightly hailed as deserved mission of COVID-19. Naomi Osaka used to confinement, Tiley had com- Australian Open champions at the Perhaps Tiley’s greatest poses with the mitted to spending hours on Zoom calls weekend but the ashen-faced former achievement was to convince a trophy next to each day listening to their concerns. tennis coach standing behind them on local government determined Craig Tiley, CEO of “I got abused on the calls. It was the podium might be considered the to keep the virus out of the state significant,” Tiley told Australian Asso- real hero of the year’s first Grand Slam. to let the players in, and to allow during a photo ciated Press (AAP). “Normally when Tournament director Craig Tiley crowds to watch them. shoot at the Royal you take heat, you take it once. This and his Tennis Australia team faced The tournament survived Botanic Gardens was 15 straight days. It’s like being down sizeable odds to get the tour- the infection of one of the quar- on attacked for 15 straight days, nament up and running, albeit by the antine hotel workers only five Sunday. verbally.” skin of their teeth at times, while much days before it was due to start, Tennis Australia also ran up a huge of the world was still dealing with the but only after everyone in the financial bill for putting on the tour- COVID-19 pandemic. tennis cohort had been tested nament, especially after the snap “At the beginning, I think there for the virus again. lockdown robbed them of crowds in were many people who doubted we Crowds were present for just the middle weekend - usually the could pull it off,” South African Tiley five days of action until Victoria busiest of the fortnight. told reporters in Melbourne went into a snap lockdown in Tiley said Tennis Australia’s cash yesterday. response to a small outbreak of reserves of A$80m ($62.96m) had been “We can look back on it now as a the variant of the virus asso- exhausted and the governing body had highly successful event in the circum- ciated with Britain. taken out a loan to get them through stances. I believe in the coming month, “BLUEPRINT” to next year. there will be a realisation of the extent The fans returned in reduced Prize money may drop a little in of what we managed to achieve in numbers from last Thursday, “This was the first time since the prompted an outpouring of complaints 2022, Tiley suggested, but there was pulling off what we did.” however, and were present in suffi- start of the pandemic began that there from players. Most were allowed out no doubt the Australian Open would In a project unique in the annals of cient numbers to create an atmosphere was a sport and entertainment event to train for five hours a day but 72 were be back. sport, more than 1,000 players and at the weekend’s finals. that had crowds (and) had every top forced into total lockdown after pas- “We started planning it a week support staff were flown to Australia Tiley believes that the Australian player bar a few that couldn’t make it,” sengers on their flights tested positive ago... 2022 is going to be a magnificent on charter flights from around the Open has now set an example that he added. “I think it is a blueprint that for COVID-19. year,” he said. “If we’re still in a version world and quarantined for 14 days from other sports events - including the works, it requires more resources and The stress of fulfilling his mas- of the pandemic, we’ll be well prepared mid-January. Tokyo Olympics - can follow, but only more time, but that’s a commitment terplan was clearly etched on Tiley’s for that. Any single thing you could list Melbourne is the biggest city in the if they make a commitment to some that you have to make.” face during the weekend’s trophy cer- that could happen to an event, we had state of Victoria, which had endured form of quarantine. The 14 days of quarantine emonies and he revealed the toll it had it these last two weeks.” TUESDAY 23 FEBRUARY 2021 SPORT 09 launches insightful series featuring stars

THE PENINSULA – DOHA Kicking of the series with a As well as regular gatherings in stalwart defender like Leonardo Doha and events in Europe to develop Aspire Academy through its widely Bonucci indicateds the punch and their ideas, members are supported by acclaimed initiative, Aspire In The gravitas packed in this new addition a cutting-edge online portal enabling World Fellows, launched a bi-weekly to the hugely successful, “Aspire in the the spread of best practice, trends and programme, named Player Insight, World Fellows” platform. Bonucci is the latest thinking. Taken together, the yesterday. recognised as one of the best various elements of the community’s The opening show aired yesterday defenders in world football and was activity provide a powerful platform afternoon featured Leonardo Bonucci, part of the Juventus team that won six to support the broader development the Italian national team and Juventus consecutive Serie A titles between of football around the world. FC centre-back. 2012 and 2017. The Fellows web-based platform Speaking about the programme, The defender has had a colourful (https://fellows.aspire.qa/) serves the Aspire Academy Director of Football international career playing at purpose of fostering ongoing debate Performance and Science, Professor two FIFA World Cups (2010 and 2014) and discussion amongst Aspire Valter Di Salvo spelt out the aim, as well as finishing with a runners-up Fellows. The platform also enables the saying, “Player Insight is a programme medal at 2012 European Champion- Channels One HD and English, embrace, gather and lead the best Fellows to share content on their own within Aspire in the World Fellows ships. Leonardo Bonucci the hard- on Aspire Fellows website, Aspire practitioners in world youth football Club/National Team training meth- project with the goal to let the players tackling defender is a worthy star Academy social media platforms and in consolidating and developing the odologies, application of technology, express their point of view on the game player to kick off the latest production other local and international sports knowledge pool in the world of research and other relevant sources of football, providing an insight on from world-renowned Aspire channels. football performance and science. The of information. Through this tool, the training methodologies, competition Academy. Aspire In The World Fellows is a activity leans on the cornerstone of Community is able to continue exposure and their overall experiences Player Insight first episode was programme launched by Aspire Aspire Academy Global Summit and working throughout the year on and feelings on the beautiful game.” broadcasted on both AlKass Sports Academy in 2014 with the goal to Fellows Gatherings. defined topics.

New Zealand's Devon Vaas quits as Conway is congratulated PSL: Zaman, Hafeez by team-mate Jimmy coach Neesham after he reached his half century shine as Lahore crush days after against Australia during the opening T20 match at Hagley Oval Quetta by 9 appointment in Christchurch, New KARACHI Zealand, yesterday. AP – REUTERS – COLOMBO Pic: Twitter/@BLACKCAPS internationals and Mohammad Sri Lanka’s former pace spearhead Hafeez smashed half-centuries as Chaminda Vaas has resigned as the thumped Quetta Gladiators by nine wickets in the Pakistan team’s coach for the Super League yesterday. tour of West Indies hours before Left-handed opener Fakhar made 82 off 52 balls and their departure to the Caribbean 41-year-old Hafeez hit a blistering 73 off just 33 balls in over his remuneration, the coun- Lahore’s strong run-chase of 179-1 with 10 balls to spare. try’s cricket board said yesterday. Both batsmen were dropped but raised a 115-run, match- Vaas, who retired from interna- winning stand off only 58 balls. tional cricket in 2009 having Hafeez smashed six sixes and five fours that included claimed 355 wickets from 111 Tests, the winning boundary against Mohammad Hasnain through was appointed by Sri Lanka Cricket the covers to hand Quetta its second successive loss in the (SLC) only on Friday and announced six-team event. his resignation effective March 26. “The ball was coming nicely onto the bat and we always He will not be available to tour knew we will chase it down,” Lahore captain West Indies as a member of the said. “Hafeez and Fakhar paced the run chase very well and support staff, the board added, and Conway powers NZ to it was an outstanding performance.” described Vaas’ decision as Earlier, after being put into bat, Lahore let veteran Chris “irresponsible.” Gayle (68) off the hook twice before he anchored Quetta to “It’s particularly disheartening 178-6. to note that in an economic climate big win over Australia Gayle, dropped in the 20s by Agha Salman at deep mid- such as the one facing the globe , hit five fours and five sixes before Afghanistan leg- now, Vaas has made this sudden REUTERS – CHRISTCHURCH played under lights at the SCOREBOARD spinner Rashid Khan clean bowled him in the 15th over. and irresponsible move on the eve Hagley Oval and it started after New Zealand Gayle shared 101-run stand with captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, of the team’s departure based on Devon Conway rescued New a minute’s silence was observed M. Guptill c Agar b Sams ...... 0 who returned to some form with 40 off 31 balls before personal monetary gain,” SLC said Zealand from a precarious start to mark the 10th anniversary T. Seifert b J.Richardson ...... 1 getting a top edge off a mistimed pull against fast bowler in a statement. with a scintillating unbeaten 99 of the Christchurch earthquake K. Williamson c Wade b Sams ...... 12 , who took 3-38. SLC said Vaas had resorted to as the hosts defeated Australia that killed 185 people. D. Conway ...... 99 Brief scores: G. Phillips c Marsh b Stoinis ...... 30 “holding the administration, the by 53 runs in the opener of their Fast bowler J. Neesham c Wade b J.Richardson ...... 26 Quetta Gladiators 178 for 6 (Gayle 68, Sarfaraz 40, Rauf cricketers and the game at ransom” five-match Twenty20 series in sent Martin Guptill back M. Santner not out ...... 7 3-38) lost to Lahore Qalandars: 179 for 1 (Zaman 82 not by resigning citing the administra- Christchurch yesterday. without scoring and then dis- Extras (lb3, w4, b2) ...... 9 out, Hafeez 73 not out) by nine wickets tion’s refusal to accede to an “unjus- Walking in to bat at 11-2, missed New Zealand skipper Total (5 wickets; 20 overs) ...... 184 tifiable demand for an increased the left-hander smashed 10 for 12 to Did not bat: , Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi, Trent Lahore Qalanders' Fakhar Zaman and USD remuneration”. fours and three sixes in his reduce the hosts to 19-3 inside Boult. greet each others after wining the match yesterday. Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-11, 3-19, 4-93, 5-140 Pic: Twitter/@TheRealPCB Vaas is a contracted employee 59-ball knock to help New the first four overs. Bowling: Sams 4-0-40-2 (w1), Zampa 3-0-20-0, J. Rich- of SLC and worked as the fast Zealand reach 184-5 in their 20 “The key from there was ardson 4-0-31-2 (w1), K. Richardson 4-0-42-0, Agar 2-0- bowling coach at their high-per- overs after Australia captain just trying to stay positive 20-2, Stoinis 2-0-17-1, Maxwell 1-0-9-0 formance centre before replacing won the toss and throughout,” said Conway. Australian David Saker with the opted to bowl. “When I’m positive I’m at my Australia senior team. Australia’s top-order best so trying not to think too M. Wade c Williamson b Boult...... 12 Sri Lanka play three Twenty20 batsmen failed to counter the far ahead, try and play good A. Finch c Conway b Southee ...... 1 J. Philippe c Conway b Boult...... 2 and three one-day internationals pace duo of Tim Southee and cricket shots and build partner- M. Marsh c Santner b Jamieson ...... 45 plus two Tests - all behind closed Trent Boult to be reduced to ships at the end.” South G. Maxwell c Neesham b Southee ...... 1 doors in Antigua from March 3. 19-4 in their chase, with African-born Conway steadied M. Stoinis c&b Sodhi ...... 8 Meanwhile, SLC also announced Conway making his presence the innings with a 74-run stand A. Agar c Jamieson b Sodhi ...... 23 that pacer Lahiru Kumara has tested felt even more with two for the fourth wicket with D. Sams c Jamieson b Sodhi ...... 1 positive for COVID-19 ahead of the catches. Glenn Phillips, who made 30, J. Richardson st Seifert b Santner ...... 11 K. Richardson c Neesham b Sodhi ...... 5 team’s tour. All-rounder Mitchell Marsh and then raised the tempo with A. Zampa not out ...... 13 Kumara, 24, is likely to miss the provided some resistance with some lusty hits towards the Extras (lb1, w 7, nb1) ...... 9 limited-overs leg of the tour, which a 33-ball 45 but it was not end. Total (10 wickets; 17.3 overs) ...... 131 begins on March 3. enough for the touring side, He was on 98 on the final Fall of wickets: 1-3, 2-8, 3-16, 4-19, 5-56, 6-98, 7-99, “Following PCR Tests carried who were bundled out for 131 of the innings but 8-99, 9-108, 10-131 out on the squad...Lahiru Kumara as leg-spinner Ish Sodhi failed to complete a second run, Bowling: Southee 3-0-10-2 (1w), Boult 3-0-22-2 (2w), has tested positive for COVID-19. mopped up the lower order hitting it straight to the fielder Jamieson 3-0-32-1 (1w), Neesham 1-0-9-0, Sodhi 4-0-28- 4 (1nb), Santner 3.3-0-29-1 (3w) He was detected during PCR Tests with 4-28. patrolling the boundary. Result: New Zealand win by 53 runs carried out yesterday,” the SLC said Yesterday’s series opener The second match will be Series: New Zealand lead the five-match series 1-0 in a statement. was the first international played at Dunedin on Thursday. England’s WTC hopes hang by hair as India pink-ball Test awaits REUTERS – MUMBAI in favour of the touring side to INDIA VS ENGLAND set up a WTC final clash against INDIA - World ranking: 2 England must register their first their trans-Tasman rivals. Coach: Ravi Shastri, Captain: win in a pink-ball Test abroad if England have slightly more Squad: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Mayank they are to keep their hopes alive experience of playing day-night Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, of qualifying for this year’s Tests than their hosts but do not Ajinkya Rahane, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, World Test Championship final have an exemplary record Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran when they face-off against India outside their home comforts. Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington at the world’s largest cricket They beat West Indies at Bir- A groundsman Sundar, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, stadium from tomorrow. mingham but lost in Adelaide works on the field . New Zealand have already and Auckland and the Feb. 24-28 at Sardar Patel booked their spot for the inau- Test under floodlights at Gujarat Stadium ENGLAND - World ranking: 4 gural WTC final to be held at Ahmedabad’s Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad, Coach: Chris Silverwood, Captain: Joe Root Lord’s later this year, leaving will be their fourth outing. India, where India Squad: Joe Root, James Anderson, Jofra India, England and Australia The refurbished stadium, and England are Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Dominic Bess, vying for the other. with a capacity of 110,000, has scheduled to Stuart Broad, , Zak Crawley, Ben The four-Test series between displaced the Melbourne Cricket play their third Foakes, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ollie India and England is currently Ground as the world’s largest for Test match from Pope, , Ben Stokes, , tied at 1-1 at the halfway stage cricket and will be the venue for tomorrow. , Mark Wood. and Joe Root’s men will need to the remaining Tests. win the remaining matches to Local authorities have qualify. allowed 50% capacity for the posting their lowest ever Test practice than the traditional red will be hopeful of it doing some- much-debated rotation policy The task appears a tad day-night match - only the innings of 36. one. thing and we’ll be hopeful that it while fit-again speedster Jofra simpler for Virat Kohli’s side, second in India after the one Players from both sides said “We’ve got a little bit of gives us a little bit of an edge. Archer will also be available for with the hosts needing to win at against neighbouring Bang- last week that the sample size of experience with the pink ball but “Obviously, I’ll be keeping selection. least one Test and avoid defeat ladesh at Eden Garden in day-night Test matches was too this is just the second Test in my fingers crossed if I do play The hosts will also receive a in the other. Kolkata in 2019. small to arrive at any conclusion India, the first one in February and we bowl first, I’ll be hoping boost with the return of rested Australia’s cancelled trip to India won that match in a on the behaviour of the pink ball. as well so we don’t know how it it does a little bit.” England are pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah South Africa means that Tim little over two days but suffered Seamer James Anderson, is going to behave,” the 38-year- expected to welcome back while senior fast bowler Ishant Paine’s side are dependent on a defeat in their next one against England’s most prolific bowler, old told reporters. Anderson after resting him Sharma is expected to play his India and England and would Australia in Adelaide, where they said he felt the pink ball swung “The bowlers who get the ball during the defeat in the second 100th Test match during the need a drawn series or a 2-1 win also suffered the ignominy of a bit more in the air during in their hand come the Test match Test in Chennai as part of their day-night affair. Sport TUESDAY 23 FEBRUARY 2021 08 F1: Albon NBA: Pelicans rally past Celtics determined to as Nets notch up another win reclaim Red Bull seat REUTERS — NEW YORK in the third quarter before Randle’s free throws. He fin- REUTERS — LONDON Brandon Ingram scored 33 ished with a team-high 25 points, including a go-ahead points and 14 rebounds for the British-born Thai racer Alexander 3-pointer with 34.4 seconds Knicks, who have won four of Albon said yesterday Formula One left in overtime, as the host five. RJ Barrett scored 21 remained his priority and he was New Orleans Pelicans points while Burks added 13. determined to bounce back after overcame a 24-point deficit The Timberwolves being dropped to a reserve role by to defeat the Boston Celtics announced after the game Red Bull for 2021. 120-115 on Sunday. that coach Ryan Saunders had The 24-year-old has been Zion Williamson had 28 been fired. He had a 43-94 replaced by experienced Mexican points and 10 rebounds to record in parts of three Sergio Perez alongside Max Ver- help lead the largest seasons as head coach. Karl- stappen after being out-performed comeback in New Orleans Anthony Towns finished with by the young Dutchman last year. history, while Josh Hart had a game-high 27 points and 15 Speaking to reporters by Zoom, 17 points with 10 rebounds rebounds for the Albon said he had overcome similar and Lonzo Ball scored 16 for Timberwolves. setbacks in the past. the Pelicans. Toronto Raptors 110 - “I have been dropped before, it’s Jayson Tatum scored 32 Philadelphia 76ers 103 not been the first time,” he said. for the Celtics, Jaylen Brown Fred VanVleet and Pascal “What I learned was, how much had 25, Tristan Thomson and Siakam each scored 23 points do you want it? I want it more than Kemba Walker added 14 each as Toronto defeated visiting I would say anyone on the grid. and Aaron Nesmith had 10. Philadelphia at Tampa. With that comes a lot of Brown made a layup to Chris Boucher scored 11 of determination. give Boston a 112-111 lead with his 17 points in the fourth “I won’t stop at any point so for 1:12 left in overtime and quarter off the bench for the me it’s just about putting my head Ingram tied it with a free Raptors, who have won four down. I got through it before, I’ve throw and added a 3-pointer straight. Norman Powell been able to get to where I am to give the Pelicans a 115-112 added 11 points and OG because of all the hard work I have lead. Walker missed a Anunoby had 10. done. And I want that seat back,” 3-pointer and Hart hit two Ben Simmons scored 28 he said. free throws for a five-point points for the 76ers, who have Albon was also dropped by Red lead with 18.6 seconds left as Brooklyn Nets guard James Harden (right) drives to the basket in the first half of the game. lost 16 straight regular-season Bull as a junior driver in 2012 but New Orleans closed it out. road games against Toronto. came back into the fold when he Brooklyn Nets 112 - Los finished with 13 points and Ross added 17 points off the Joel Embiid added 25 points joined Toro Rosso, now AlphaTauri, Angeles Clippers 108 eight rebounds. bench. and 17 rebounds for at the end of 2018 after finishing James Harden had 37 Milwaukee Bucks 128 - James Harden had 37 points, Oklahoma City Thunder Philadelphia. third in the Formula Two points, 11 rebounds and seven Sacramento Kings 115 11 rebounds and seven assists 117 - Cleveland Cavaliers 101 Atlanta Hawks 123 - championship. assists as Brooklyn won its Giannis Antetokounmpo as Brooklyn won its sixth Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Denver Nuggets 115 Perez, 31, was preferred for this sixth consecutive contest, had a double-double by consecutive contest, knocking scored 31 points to lift Trae Young scored 35 year as Red Bull decided they knocking off over host Los halftime and he combined off over host Los Angeles to Oklahoma City over host points and Clint Capela added needed an experienced driver to Angeles to complete a five- with Khris Middleton for 70 Cleveland, while the Thun- 22 as Atlanta defeated visiting help the team mount a stronger game road trip. of host Milwaukee’s points in complete a five-game road der’s bench played a big role, Denver, giving the Hawks two challenge to champions Kyrie Irving scored 28 the victory over trip. as Hamidou Diallo scored 15 victories in their last three Mercedes. points with eight assists as the Sacramento. points and Mike Muscala games, while the Nuggets have Albon, who will attend races in Nets improved to 7-0 against Antetokounmpo finished added 13. lost three of their last four. his reserve role and also compete the Pacific Division this with a game-high 38 points while adding eight assists and It was just the second Young was 10 of 19 from in the DTM (German Touring Car season. Joe Harris, DeAndre and 18 rebounds, while adding five rebounds and was one of victory in the last eight games the floor, including four championship), said there was no Jordan and Bruce Brown four assists. Middleton fin- six Sacramento players to for the Thunder and snapped 3-pointers, and 15 assists. It point feeling sorry for himself. scored 13 each for the Nets. ished with 32 points, while score in double figures. a three-game losing streak, was the 11th time Young has Brooklyn’s Kevin Durant shooting 13 of 22 from the Orlando Magic 105 - saving them from a second scored 30-plus points. (hamstring) missed his fourth field and adding eight Detroit Pistons 96 consecutive winless three- Capela was 8 of 9 from the straight game. rebounds, six assists and four Nikola Vucevic poured in game road trip. field and had 10 rebounds for I won’t stop at any point so for The Nets lost forward Jeff steals. The Bucks won their 37 points and grabbed 12 New York Knicks 103 - his team-leading 20th Green with an apparent second consecutive game rebounds as host Orlando Minnesota Timberwolves 99 double-double. me it’s just about putting my shoulder injury with 2:50 after snapping a five-game topped Detroit for its third Julius Randle hit the tying Denver’s Jamal Murray head down. I got through it remaining. losing streak. consecutive win. and go-ahead free throws followed his 50-point game before, I’ve been able to get to Paul George had 34 points Sacramento dropped its Vucevic, who was coming with 32 seconds remaining as on Friday by scoring 30 points where I am because of all the and seven rebounds but sat seventh consecutive game off a 30-point triple-double host New York squandered a on 11-of-20 shooting. out the game’s crucial minutes and played without leading Friday against the Golden 21-point third-quarter lead Nikola Jokic, effectively hard work I have done. And I down the stretch while on a scorer Harrison Barnes (left State Warriors, was 14 of 27 before coming back to defeat guarded all night by Capela, want that seat back. minutes restriction. Kawhi foot strain) for the third con- from the field. Minnesota. scored only three points in the Leonard had 29 points with secutive game. Evan Fournier supplied 29 The Knicks were out- first half and finished with 15 Alexander Albon five 3-pointers and 13 Rookie Tyrese Haliburton points, seven rebounds and scored 33-11 over a nearly points, 10 rebounds and six rebounds, while Ivica Zubac led the Kings with 23 points, seven assists, and Terrence 13-minute span beginning late assists. NHL: Pastrnak helps Bruins defeat Flyers at Lake Tahoe

REUTERS — LOS ANGELES

David Pastrnak scored three goals and Nick Ritchie added one goal and one assist to lift the Boston Bruins past the Phil- adelphia Flyers 7-3 in the NHL Outdoors at Lake Tahoe in Stateline, Nev. Charlie McAvoy, Charlie Coyle and Trent Frederic each contributed one goal for the Bruins, who have won all five meetings against the Flyers this season. Three wins have come in regulation, one in overtime and one in a shootout. Brad Marchand, Connor Clifton, John Moore and Craig Smith had two assists each. Bruins goaltender Tuukka Rask made 16 saves. James van Riemsdyk had one goal and two assists while Sean Couturier had one goal Boston Bruins right wing David Pastrnak and one assist for the Flyers. (foreground) skates with the puck Joel Farabee added one goal against the Philadelphia Flyers during and Kevin Hayes contributed the first period in a NHL Outdoors two assists. hockey game at Lake Tahoe. Flyers goaltender Carter Hart allowed six goals in two periods and was replaced by he scored while sliding on the scoring chances but couldn’t Brian Elliott to open the third. ice, tied it at 1 at 6:41. capitalize and the Bruins soon Elliott stopped 11 of 12 shots. Philadelphia went ahead went ahead 4-2 when Coyle Hart made 17 saves. 2-1 when Couturier gathered a scored at 16:14 of the second. Captain Claude Giroux, Jake loose puck in front and scored Frederic extended the lead to Voracek, Travis Konecny, Oskar at 14:48 of the first. 5-2 only 33 seconds later with Lindblom and Scott Laughton McAvoy equalised at 2 just his first career goal. were among the vital Flyers on 39 seconds later when he fired Ritchie’s power play goal at the COVID-19 list and out for a slap shot through traffic in 17:43 pushed the lead to 6-2. this matchup. front. Philadelphia closed within The Bruins jumped out to a Pastrnak’s second goal just 6-3 when van Riemsdyk scored 1-0 lead just 34 seconds into the 46 seconds into the second on the power play at 12:45 of first period when Pastrnak sent extended Boston’s advantage the third. a wrist shot into a mostly open to 3-2. The nasty wrist shot Pastrnak registered the hat net. clanged underneath the trick at 17:04. It was his second Farabee’s eighth goal of the crossbar and into the net. hat trick against the Flyers this season, an impressive feat as The Flyers had several solid season.