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FOOTBALL / AFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Al Sadd were outstanding, says delighted coach Xavi The win over Al Duhail also seals Al Sadd’s place in the 2019 FIFA Club World Cup, which will be played in Qatar

Al Sadd players celebrate their victory over Al Duhail in their AFC Champions League Round of 16 match on Tuesday. PICTURES: Jayaram/AFP Al Sadd head coach Xavi is all smiles after the win.

By Sports Reporter team eff ort that took Al Sadd to “Our players gave an unbeliev- be a tough game against Al Nassr, ment, he is the best coach in the best players in Qatar.” Sadd midfi elder Tarek Salman Doha a quarter-fi nal tie against Saudi able performance over the two we saw their game yesterday – world.” Meanwhile, Al Sadd striker spoke about the diffi culty of their Arabia’s Al Nassr. games. At Al Wakrah in the fi rst they have excellent players but Xavi also spoke about the way Baghdad Bounedjah spoke of his game against Duhail. “The match “We are very happy to qualify leg, we were the better side but our aim will be to reach the semis. the team changed their approach delight after his side progressed wasn’t easy from the very begin- l Sadd head coach Xavi for the quarter-fi nals. I am very today, we were only good in the But now, the team is celebrating by bringing in Khoukhi Boualem to the quarter-fi nals. “I am very ning, as we had expected. But we expressed his delight happy with the team because fi rst half.” and we will then think about the in the second half. “We were suf- happy to qualify for the next played for the win and managed after the Qatar Stars they did an outstanding job. As “They made things very dif- Sheikh Jassim Cup, after that, the fering with the long balls in the stage. We played for the win from to secure things in our favour. We League champions I had said earlier, Al Duhail are fi cult for us in the second half. league and then, the AFC Cham- second half, and so we brought the fi rst minute. Our only goal controlled the game, despite the Asealed a place in the 2019 AFC one of the best teams in the Mid- We created and missed chances pions League.” on Khoukhi to deal with it. Not was to get the victory. We want continued eff orts of Al Duhail to Champions League quarter-fi - dle East with players who have but I have been working on a new Al Nassr will host the fi rst leg just that but he also has a great to thank the fans, who supported try and equalise,” Salman said. nals on Wednesday. Al Sadd saw played together for 7-8 years. So philosophy with the team for the on August 26 with the second leg personality and leadership skills us in both legs,” the Algerian said. “We are delighted that we off the challenge of Qatar rivals our achievement is amazing.” last three weeks. I am very happy three weeks later. so it was great to have him on for “We still have a lot of work to managed to make our fans happy. Al Duhail, scoring a 3-1 win in the The win also sealed Al Sadd’s that we have qualifi ed, I am very When he was compared with the last thirty minutes or so. Af- do. We need to prepare for the They supported us with great second leg of their Round of 16 tie place in the 2019 FIFA Club World happy for the players. Our work current Manchester City and ter he came on, we changed our Sheikh Jassim Cup match, which force in this tough game. We look to advance 4-2 on aggregate. Cup, which will be played in Qatar. continues now, next up we have former Barcelona, Bayern Mu- system a bit, with four defend- we wish to win as well. The forward to seeing their support Strikes by Akram Afi f, Ab- Xavi, who took charge of Al Sadd the Sheikh Jassim Cup match nich coach Pep Guardiola, Xavi ers instead of three and two de- team’s objective is to compete for again in all the upcoming games, delkarim Hassan and an own as head coach after having served (the Qatar season opener against replied: “It’s just the beginning fensive midfi elders. As I said, we all the titles, both in the Cham- be it in the Super Cup, QSL or in goal by Ahmed Yasser secured Al them as a player for four seasons, Al Duhail).” of my career, of course I want to didn’t play Khoukhi last time just pions League and at home. We the Champions League, in which Sadd the win but Spain and Bar- said his team had shown consist- As for the quarter-fi nal clash be successful but don’t compare because he had joined the train- hope fortune will be on our side,” we are looking to go to the far- celona legend Xavi said it was a ency over both legs. with Al Nassr, Xavi said: “It will me with Guardiola. At this mo- ing camp late. But he is one of the he added. thest point,” he added.

SPOTLIGHT Qatar’s Yacoub, Yousef to participate in third Big spending Madrid clubs out to deny Barca another title round of FINA World Cup

DPA “Griezmann is one of the best Atletico. QNA Barcelona, Spain players in the world,” Barcelona said Diego Simeone’s side beat them Singapore in a statement marking his arrival. 7-3 in July in New Jersey with Diego In pre-season he has established a Costa scoring four goals and Felix arcelona begin the 2019-20 good understanding with Luis Sua- one. atari swimmers Yacoub al-Khulaifi La Liga season with the clear rez and Ousmane Dembele. That partnership between the and Yousef al-Khulaifi will take objective of winning their Lionel Messi has a right calf prob- bruising former Chelsea forward and Qpart in the third round of the 2019 third straight title under Er- lem and will miss the start of the the 19-year-old signing from Benfi ca FINA World Cup, which kicks off today in Bnesto Valverde. campaign but in his absence new has promised much this summer. Singapore. Real Madrid will hope to improve signing Griezmann, along with Sua- Simeone will have to wait to un- Abdulaziz al-Obaidli and Firas al-Saidi drastically on their performance last rez and Dembele have thrived and leash it, however, because Costa is participated in the first round in Tokyo from season when they fi nished third, 19 Barcelona won both games against suspended for the season opener at August 2-4, while Omar Ashraf and Kareem points off the lead, and went through Napoli, 2-1 and 4-0, in their fi nal home to Getafe. Salah participated in the second round held three coaches. warm-up matches. Valencia fi nished fourth last sea- in Jinan, China, from August 8-10. Atletico Madrid were runners- Real’s pre-season was far less im- son and they are expected to be the This year’s FINA World Cup Series includes up last season and with new record pressive. They conceded more goals best of the rest once again, hav- seven rounds, with the fourth round sched- signing Joao Felix having had a very than they scored and coach Zinedine ing signed Celta Vigo striker Maxi uled to take place in Budapest on October impressive pre-season at the club, Zidane was still tinkering with his Barcelona’s Ousmane Dembele (left) celebrates a goal with teammate Gomez to reinforce their attack. 4-6, the fifth round in Berlin on October 11-13, hopes are high that they can push for formation in the fi nal friendly of the Antoine Griezmann during a United States La Liga-Serie A Cup Tour match With Girona, Huesca and Rayo the sixth round in Kazan on November 1-3, the title this time. summer — a 2-2 draw with Roma. against Napoli in Ann Arbor, United States, on Saturday. (USA TODAY Sports) Vallecano all relegated last season, and the seventh and final round will take Atletico lost their star player An- Zidane has been vocal about want- La Liga welcomes newly promoted place in Doha on November 7-9. toine Griezmann to Barcelona at ing Gareth Bale sold and Paul Pogba old Eden Hazard with reports in against Salzburg but generally dis- Osasuna, Granada, and Mallorca for The seven rounds can help swimmers the start of the summer when the signed, before the season starts but Spain suggesting Chelsea received appointed as Madrid struggled to the new campaign. qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Doha Catalan club paid the Frenchman’s neither of those requests look like 100mn euros plus add-ons for the fi nd form. The action kicks off tomorrow has been hosting one of the rounds of the release clause of 120mn euro (135mn being granted. Belgium forward. Their worst pre-season defeat when Barcelona travel to play Ath- FINA World Cup Series annually since 2012. dollars). Real did pay a huge fee for 28-year- He scored one spectacular goal came at the hands of local rivals letic Bilbao. Gulf Times 2 Thursday, August 15, 2019 FOOTBALL

INVESTIGATION COMMENT Sala and pilot ‘exposed to carbon monoxide’ Kovac can AFP or above in an otherwise healthy sciousness and heart attacks London individual is generally consid- possible with COHb levels of ered to be potentially fatal.” over 50 percent. The bulletin said that carbon “It is clear from the symptoms build an era at ootballer Emiliano monoxide poisoning was a par- that exposure to CO can reduce Sala and the pilot fl ying ticular risk in the type of aircraft or inhibit a pilot’s ability to fl y his plane when it crashed they were travelling in. an aircraft depending on the were likely exposed to “Piston engine aircraft pro- level of that exposure,” added Bayern, says “potentiallyF fatal” levels of car- duce high concentrations of CO the bulletin. bon monoxide, investigators an- that are conveyed away from Attention had previously fo- nounced yesterday. the aircraft through the exhaust cussed on pilot Ibbotson, who it “Toxicology tests found that system,” said investigators. was reported was not authorised Matthaeus the passenger had a high satu- “Poor sealing of the cabin, or to fl y at night. ration level of COHb (the com- leaks into the heating and venti- The BBC said Ibbotson was bination product of carbon lation system from the exhaust colour blind, which would have monoxide and haemoglobin),” can provide pathways for CO to automatically disqualifi ed him Britain’s Air Accidents Investi- enter the cabin. from night fl ights. gation Branch (AAIB) said in a “In this type of aircraft, the The AAIB also said the plane special bulletin. “It is consid- cockpit is not separated from the carrying Sala was not authorised ered likely that the pilot would cabin and it is considered likely to make commercial fl ights. also have been exposed to car- that the pilot would also have But the investigators pointed bon monoxide,” it added. lish Channel on January 21 dur- Toxicology tests on Sala been aff ected to some extent by out that Ibbotson had in the past The Argentinian was fl ying to ing a night-time fl ight. showed a carboxyhemoglobin exposure to CO.” transported people on a cost- Wales from France to join Pre- His body was recovered, but (COHb) saturation level of 58%, Exposure to the gas can lead share basis, which is author- mier League club Cardiff when that of pilot David Ibbotson has according to the AAIB. to damage to the brain and ised by the regulation for small his plane came down in the Eng- never been found. “A COHb level of 50 percent nervous system, with uncon- planes.

FOCUS Fearless teenager Bayern Munich’s Croatian head coach Niko Kovac (left) poses with the team’s new recruit, compatriot and midfielder Ivan Perisic, in Munich, Germany, yesterday. (AFP)

AFP “If any German club is going Dortmund, Germany to win the Champions League, it Felix leads charge of will be Bayern,” he added. ‘Other countries have over- ayern Munich legend taken us’ Lothar Matthaeus be- After they took the title race lieves under-fi re coach to the fi nal day of the season in Niko Kovac can defi ne 2018/19, many in Germany be- anB era at the club and walk in the lieve that this could be Borussia footsteps of managerial greats Dortmund’s year in the Bundes- refreshed Atletico Ottmar Hitzfeld and Jupp Hey- liga. nckes. The perennial runners-up Atleti won five out of six of their pre-season games, beating Real and Juventus In an interview with AFP ahead have strengthened their squad of Bayern’s Bundesliga opener with Thorgan Hazard, Julian Reuters against Hertha Berlin on Friday, Brandt and Hummels, and have Madrid the 1990 World Cup winner said stated their intention to end Bay- that Kovac could emulate the ern’s seven-year hegemony over achievements of Bayern’s most the German league. tletico Madrid underwent seis- successful coaches and lead the Yet Matthaeus believes that, mic changes in the close season club to Champions League glory. despite their lack of movement but after a rip-roaring warm- “I think Kovac could even in the transfer market, Bayern up campaign spearheaded by build an era in the way Ottmar remain favourites for the Bun- teenageA hotshot Joao Felix, they look re- Hitzfeld, Jupp Heynckes and Udo desliga title. freshed, more dangerous in attack and Lattek did at Bayern,” Matthae- “Dortmund have invested a lot ready to mount a serious La Liga title us, 58, told AFP. of money, but for me, they still challenge. Kovac was under constant don’t have the quality Bayern The departure of veteran defenders pressure in his fi rst year at Bay- have.” Diego Godin, Filipe Luis and Juanfran ern last season and faced re- “There are more Bayern play- plus talisman Antoine Griezmann’s bitter peated criticism from inside the ers who would get into the Dort- transfer to champions Barcelona initially dressing room, despite eventu- mund team than vice versa.” appeared to strip the team of their back- ally leading the club to the do- Matthaeus admitted that, bone, as did the sales of Lucas Hernandez mestic double. in general, the Bundesliga now and Rodri. “He won the double in diffi cult lacked the quality of the English But the considerable windfall from conditions last year. He showed Premier League and the Spanish those deals have allowed them to invest he can fi ght,” said Matthaeus. Liga. more than 300mn euros ($335.46mn) in “He is a football expert and I “Other countries have over- a new group of dynamic players that look think this season will be easier taken us, you saw that with the set to transform Diego Simeone’s infa- for him.” English teams last season and mously defensive side into an attacking Matthaeus, who won seven the Spanish teams in the last few machine. Bundesliga titles with Bayern as years.” “The coach has been getting us playing a player, said that Kovac has been “They are the strongest in a 4-3-3 shape, he wants to be more at- “left on his own” by players who leagues in the world in terms of tacking, have a little more of the ball and had “the ear of the club bosses”. international success.” try to be more forward-thinking,” said He suggested that the Croatian Yet the former Germany midfi elder Koke, hinting at a change in would fi nd it easier now that captain warned the Bundes- strategy from the team with the best de- senior players such as Arjen Rob- liga against abolishing the fensive record in the league over the last In this July 30, 2019, picture, Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix takes part in the touch and volley contest during the MLS Skills Chal- ben, Mats Hummels and Franck much disputed 50+1 rule, four seasons. lenge at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, United States. (USA TODAY Sports) Ribery had left Munich. which guarantees majority Atleti won fi ve out of six of their pre- “I think the younger players he control for club members at season games, hammering Real Madrid a centre forward and a playmaker rolled he is adapting very fast. the midfi eld alongside former Real Ma- has now have the potential, the most clubs, in a bid to attract 7-3 and beating Juventus 2-1 with eye- into one. He dovetailed superbly with Di- “The best thing about him is his will- drid player Marcos Llorente, while Spain quality and the mentality that foreign investors. catching displays from 19-year-old Felix, ego Costa in the demolition of Real, pro- ingness to learn and when a player is like striker Rodrigo Moreno is also set to join Niko needs to play his kind of “In England, the investors who cost 126mn euros from Benfi ca as a viding two assists and a goal, while scor- that the path to the top is always shorter.” from Valencia before their opening game football,” said Matthaeus. have created a two-speed so- replacement for Griezmann. ing two clinical strikes against Juventus. Felix is far from the only new addi- at home to Getafe on Sunday. The 58-year-old said that ciety, where you have the top It was a staggering fee for a player with The youngster has also averaged a tion at Atletico: their defence has been “This is a renewed team, there are very he believed Bayern still had six and then the rest of the less than a season in professional football goal or an assist every 35 minutes in pre- replenished by 21-year-old Brazilian left few players left from when Simeone ar- the quality to compete for the league.” under his belt, but if the Portugal inter- season, prompting Spanish newspaper back Renan Lodi and Spain centre back rived. New players have come in with lots Champions League. “In the Bundesliga, we still national’s early performances are an in- Marca to boldly declare: “Not even Lionel Mario Hermoso, 24, plus England’s Ki- of hope and humility and they are pre- “Bayern have 17 players who have the feeling that the teams dication of what is to come, his transfer Messi can cast a shadow over Joao Felix.” eran Trippier and Brazilian centre back pared to word hard,” said Koke. are really at the top level, but they fi ghting relegation can always could look like shrewd business. Simeone added of his club’s record Felipe. “I’ve never been more excited about a cannot aff ord to suff er lots of inju- frustrate or even beat the teams Felix appears to have all the qualities of signing: “He has so much capability and Mexican Hector Herrera has bolstered new season.” ries as they did last year,” he said. at the top.”

ANALYSIS Does De Rossi at Boca mark start of European infl ux? Reuters level and in the way I enjoy.” In explaining their reasons for up. We’ll be going for it.” Buenos Aires, Argentina In the money-driven world of coming to South America, both Another reason is that al- modern soccer, De Rossi’s ar- De Rossi and Juanfran underlined though top clubs in South Amer- rival is unusual in that he has no the attraction of playing in front ica cannot match the salaries talian Daniele De Rossi’s de- links to the Buenos Aires club, of South America’s famously paid by their counterparts in Eu- but for Boca Juniors on Tues- other than a friendship with their passionate fans. rope, they can still pay big wages day could be the spark of a sporting director, his former Both players also highlighted and provide highly competitive new trend for ageing Europe- Roma teammate Nicolas Burd- the draw of the Copa Libertado- standards — as well as off er long- Ian players seeking more than one isso. res, South America’s equivalent er contracts than many teams are last payday before they retire. Most top players who join Bra- of the Champions League. willing to give to players in their The World Cup winning mid- zilian and Argentine clubs at the The tournament has come mid-30s. fi elder signed last month from AS end of their careers are returning under fi re in recent years, with For De Rossi, who has been Roma and made his fi rst appear- home. the second leg of last year’s fi nal welcomed by fans in Buenos ance for Boca in a Copa Argentina In recent weeks, Dani Alves moved to Madrid after Argentine Aires — as well as by former Boca game against Almagro. left Paris St Germain for Sao police deemed the game too dan- great Diego Maradona — the De Rossi, who spent his entire Paulo, while Flamengo signed gerous for Buenos Aires. money is clearly secondary. career in the Italian capital, told full backs Rafinha from Bayern That unbridled passion may “The fact that I am a European fans before the game he had come Munich and Filipe Luis from have helped convince the Euro- player prompts passion and curi- to Argentina not for the money, Atletico Madrid. peans to come and experience osity,” De Rossi said. although he will doubtlessly be But in what could be a new soccer on the other side of the “I am delighted by that and well paid, but for the romance of trend, in addition to De Rossi, world. I hope many more of my col- turning out for one of the world’s Spanish defender Juanfran also “Sao Paulo is a Libertadores leagues can come from Europe or most storied teams. joined Sao Paulo, prompting the team,” Juanfran said. Italy and experience this love.” “I’ve been passionate about question of whether a trickle of “The fans go to the stadium “What is the next dream? this club since I was little,” the Europeans crossing the Atlantic for that competition. Just like at Winning a big tournament here, 36-year old said. “This club al- could grow into something more Atletico, there is a culture here to that would really be the crowning Boca Junior’s Daniele De Rossi (second from right) celebrates with teammates after scoring against lows me to play at an excellent substantial. fi ght for every ball and never give achievement of my career.” Almagro during the Copa Argentina match in La Plata, Buenos Aires, on Tuesday. (AFP) Gulf Times Thursday, August 15, 2019 3 SPORT

RUGBY Kolisi returns for Boks as Erasmus challenges players to earn World Cup spot

Reuters campaign with a knee injury, Erasmus has challenged a Ntubeni and prop Wilco Louw Pretoria, South Africa is not expected to play the full number of players to push for a will start on the bench, while 80 minutes and so the side will place in the squad. Cobus Reinach has been given a be captained by veteran hooker “No matter what has hap- fi rst test start since 2014 in the iya Kolisi will start as Schalk Brits. pened before this weekend, the scrumhalf berth. fl anker for South Af- “I’ve asked Siya to empty his momentum we will go to the The Boks beat Argentina 46- rica in their one-off test tank and go as hard for as long as World Cup with will depend on 13 in Salta last weekend to seal against Argentina at Lof- he can,” Erasmus said. what happens on Saturday,” Er- the Rugby Championship title. tusS Versfeld on Saturday, eager “I’ve told him he might even asmus said. to prove his fi tness ahead of the come off in the fi rst half. He has “Some of these players will TEAM: 15-Warrick Gelant, 14-Sbu Rugby World Cup in Japan next played less than 50 minutes of know they are on the plane but Nkosi, 13-Jesse Kriel, 12-Andre Es- month. Currie Cup rugby in the last 12 for others it is make or break — terhuizen, 11-Dillyn Leyds, 10-El- Springbok coach Rassie Er- weeks but I needed him to have and even if they don’t make the ton Jantjies, 9-Cobus Reinach, asmus named an entirely new a taste of Test rugby again before plane there will be six standby 8-Marcell Coetzee, 7-Rynhardt selection for the match in Pre- we leave for Japan.” roles to be identifi ed. Elstadt, 6-Siya Kolisi, 5-Lood de toria, the penultimate fi xture for Brits, one of a number of play- “We’ve picked a formidable Jager, 4-RG Snyman, 3-Vincent the side before they open their ers vying for a place in the Boks’ pack and we saw what the back- Koch, 2-Schalk Brits (captain), World Cup campaign against 31-man World Cup squad that line did against Australia so I am 1-Thomas du Toit New Zealand in Yokohama on will be announced on Aug 26, really excited to see what they Replacements: 16-Scarra Ntube- Sept 21. will make his fi rst international can do on Saturday to prove their ni, 17-Lizo Gqoboka, 18-Wilco Regular skipper Kolisi, who start in 11 years and at the age of own case and also show just how Louw, 19-Marvin Orie, 20-Marco missed the whole of the Boks’ 38 will become the oldest fi rst strong South African rugby is.” van Staden, 21-Kwagga Smith, 22- In this November 3, 2018, picture, South Africa’s Siya Kolisi (left) tackles England’s Mark Wilson (centre) during victorious Rugby Championship time captain of the side. Uncapped hooker Scarra Faf de Klerk, 23-Frans Steyn. the international rugby union match at Twickenham Stadium in London. (AFP)

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SPOTLIGHT First female match commissioners for Ajax, Red Star Asian qualifi ers

Reuters commissioners appointed to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia manage the Asian Qualifi ers,” AFC General Secretary Dato’ Windsor John said in a state- outh Korea’s Kim Se-in ment. through as Celtic “The AFC values the contri- will become the fi rst fe- male match commis- bution of women in the sport sioner to take charge of and we will continue to support anS Asian World Cup men’s quali- women in the workforce.” fi cation second round tie when Kim said she was surprised Guam play Maldives next month, and proud to be named the fi rst the Asian Football Confederation female match commissioner for and Porto crash out (AFC) said yesterday. men’s soccer from South Korea. Match commissioners are the “I have experience of being a offi cial representatives of a gov- match commissioner in women’s Ajax, semi-finalists last season, come from behind to beat PAOK 3-2 for playoff spot erning body at a game and are competition, but I can expect a responsible for ensuring that the big diff erence between a men’s Reuters match is properly organised and and women’s tournament in Belgrade, Serbia runs smoothly. terms of size and scale so I’m ex- Three more female match cited with this opportunity,” she commissioners — Vietnam’s added. ormer European Cup Nguyen Thanh Ha, Hong Kong’s “I’ve surpassed my expecta- winners had mixed for- Lau Cheuk Chi and Kanya Keo- tions and it is great to see other tunes in Champions many of Laos — have also been women going for the match com- League qualifying as appointed for Asian qualify- missioner exams this year. AjaxF Amsterdam and Red Star ing matches for the 2022 men’s “People need to believe that Belgrade squeezed into the play- World Cup in Qatar and the 2023 it doesn’t matter if you are fe- off round while Celtic and Porto AFC Asian Cup China. male or male — you just need the were eliminated after a dramatic “The Asian football family is proper talent and knowledge to evening on Tuesday. proud to have four female match be selected for a job.” Ajax, semi-fi nalists last sea- son, came from behind to beat PAOK 3-2 for a 5-4 aggregate win while Red Star knocked out Betis sign striker Iglesias for FC Copenhagen on penalties af- ter a bizarre shootout involving 28mn euros 22 spot-kicks. Krasnodar sprung a major up- Real Betis have signed Spanish striker Borja Iglesias after pay- set with a 3-2 win at Porto to ad- ing his 28-million-euro ($31.20mn) release clause, both La Liga vance on away goals after losing sides said yesterday. Iglesias, 26, had spent the bulk of his career the home leg 1-0 and Romania’s outside the top flight until joining Espanyol last season. He soon Cluj won 4-3 at Celtic to elimi- made a name for himself by striking 17 league goals, helping the nate the Scottish champions 5-4 club qualify for European football for the first time in 12 years. on aggregate. The striker will be reunited with coach Rubi, who guided Espan- Ajax youth academy reject Di- yol back into Europe before switching to Betis, who finished 10th ego Biseswar fi red PAOK ahead in the standings. He also becomes Betis most expensive signing with a thumping shot at the in more than two decades, his fee only eclipsed by the 31.5mn Johan Cruyff Arena before Du- euros the club paid to sign Brazilian midfielder Denilson in 1998. san Tadic, having had a penalty Betis have now spent 67mn euros in the close season, splashing saved, equalised with another 19.5mn on French midfielder Nabil Fekir from Olympique Lyon- one before halftime. nais and 8mn on Spanish forward Juanmi from Real Sociedad. PAOK keeper Alexandros Pas- chalakis pulled off a string of superb saves but was undone by Monaco sign Sevilla striker Ben a Nicolas Tagliafi co header and Yedder, Lopes moves other way another Tadic penalty before Biseswar set up a tense fi nish French side AS Monaco have with a stoppage-time eff ort. signed striker Wissam Ben Yedder Ghanaian forward Richmond from Spain’s Sevilla on a five-year Boakye fi red Red Star ahead in contract with Portugal midfielder Copenhagen and Dame N’Doye Rony Lopes moving in the opposite levelled to force the shootout direction, both clubs announced in which the Danish champions yesterday. Financial details of missed two chances to progress PAOK Saloniki’s Greek goalkeeper Alexandros Paschalakis (foreground) stops a shot from Ajax Amsterdam’s Serbian forward Dusan Tadic the deal were not disclosed but before they were dumped out by (left) during the UEFA Champions League third preliminary round match in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, on Tuesday. (AFP) local media reported that Monaco visiting keeper Milan Borjan. paid Sevilla about 40mn euros Borjan kept Red Star afl oat over the 1967 European cham- Suleymanov struck twice after Vitaliy Buyalskiy netted early on while Dinamo Zagreb thumped ($44.71mn) to activate 29-year-old with two stops and netted a pions. Tonny Vilhena had levelled the but the Belgian side hit back. Ferencvaros 4-0 away after a 1-1 France international Ben Yedder’s spot-kick himself before he tie on aggregate. Stoppage-time substitute home draw with the Hungar- release clause. Ben Yedder joined sent the away fans into raptures FINAL BLOW The hosts, who have won Eu- Lois Openda silenced the home ians. Sevilla in July 2016 and scored when he blocked Jonas Wind’s Billel Ormani scored for Cluj af- rope’s premier club competition crowd in Kiev barely a minute Rosenborg beat Maribor 3-1 70 goals in three season at the La weak eff ort to send the Serbians ter they trailed 2-1 and 3-2 and twice, hit back in the second half after coming on, scoring in the for a 6-2 overall win over the Liga club. “I am very happy to be through. George Tucudean delivered the through Ze Luis and Luis Diaz 96th minute to secure a 3-3 Slovenians, APOEL won 2-0 at involved with AS Monaco,” he told Monaco’s website. “I chose Mo- Having earned a 1-1 draw in fi nal blow in stoppage time as but the Russian visitors held on draw and book Bruges a playoff Qarabag to overturn a 2-1 home naco because I believe in this project and I am determined to do Romania, Celtic rallied from an Celtic threw men forward. at the Dragao stadium. clash with Austrians LASK. defeat and Olympiakos Piraeus everything possible to go after our common ambitions.” Lopes, early defi cit to lead 3-2 before a Porto fell 3-0 behind to Kras- Dynamo Kiev looked like LASK followed up their 2-1 beat Istanbul Basaksehir 2-0 for who can play on either wing, came through the ranks at Benfica late collapse gifted Cluj two late nodar in a dire fi rst half for the overturning a 1-0 fi rst-leg defi - win at Basel with a 3-1 home a 3-0 aggregate triumph over and made his professional debut for Premier League champions goals and a 5-4 aggregate win Portuguese side as Magomed cit against Club Bruges after victory over the Swiss team, the Turkish side. Manchester City at the age of 17 during the 2011-12 season. He has signed a five-year contract at Sevilla. Monaco, who finished 17th in the 20-team Ligue 1 last season, began their current campaign FOCUS with a 3-0 home defeat by Olympique Lyonnais on Friday. US soccer club sign 14-year-old QPR call for UEFA action aft er alleged racist abuse on professional contract AFP monkey noises and racist taunts chief executive Lee Hoos said. England I have no doubts the is- teams who leave the pitch after Orange County Soccer Club have signed 14-year old Francis London from opposition players in a QPR are in dialogue with the sue would be dealt with swiftly suff ering signifi cant discrimina- Jacobs, making him the youngest professional male signing in game against AD Nervion FC on Football Association over the with a strong punishment by the tory abuse, especially if they have United States soccer history, the California club said on Tuesday. August 8. matter, but Hoos feels more FA. Unfortunately, it seems some followed the correct protocols. Jacobs, who is 14 years, four months and 29 days old, signed a PR have called for The referee is reported to have should be done by the European countries have a long way to go “We have been in constant deal with the second tier United Soccer League club and could UEFA to take the had no option but to abandon governing body to address the in this respect and I urge UEFA communication with the club make his debut on Saturday against Las Vegas Lights FC. “I am “strongest possi- the game. issues head on. to take the strongest possible ac- (QPR) since this incident and very excited for Francis, who is a young and gifted local talent, to ble action” after the QPR are fully supportive of the “I applaud Paul Furlong and his tion as incidents of this nature are will continue to support all join our team,” said head coach Braeden Cloutier. “I’ve been really ChampionshipQ club’s Under-18 decision taken by Mahorn and staff for reacting in such a manner happening far too often. football clubs and players in the impressed with his poise and ability on the ball that he’s shown players walked off the pitch dur- want UEFA, European football’s and doing everything within their “At QPR we must not, and will fi ght against discrimination in us these past few months.” Jacobs had also trained with Bayer ing a friendly in Spain following governing body, to get involved. powers to protect the players. I am not, stand for it. There is an op- the game.” Leverkusen and FC Koln. His signing eclipses that of Freddy Adu, alleged racist abuse. “We take a very strong stance also very proud of our Under-18s portunity here for UEFA to make It is the latest incident in which who was 14 years, five months and 16 days when he joined DC QPR defender Trent Ma- against racism and will not who showed such maturity in the a strong statement. I hope it is racism has tarnished football after United in 2003. Adu won a major contract from Nike but bounced horn took the step of leading his tolerate one of our players be- face of unacceptable provoca- an opportunity they take.” England players were abused dur- around a slew of clubs and never quite made an impact that his teammates off the pitch after ing subjected to the despicable tion,” he said. Kick It Out said in a statement: ing a Euro 2020 qualifi er in Mon- early promise indicated. they were allegedly subjected to comments experienced,” QPR “Had this incident occurred in “We will always back players and tenegro last season. Gulf Times 4 Thursday, August 15, 2019 SPORT

RUGBY GYMNASTICS Breathtaking Wallabies’ look to Biles ‘unbeatable’ say rivals

AFP Biles “superhuman”. Los Angeles “I do consider it a win, just be- cause she’s unbeatable,” Lee said. Biles’ performance in Kansas breach All Blacks’ imone Biles continues City was a glimpse of what she to push the boundaries has in store for the World Cham- of her sport to the point pionships, which are being held even the American gym- in Stuttgart over October 4-13. nast’sS rivals can only watch in The German event is a fore- admiration. Sunisa Lee said she runner to the 2020 Tokyo Games, was “super happy” to take the where Biles will be aiming to add all-around silver medal at the to the fi ve medals — four of them Eden Park fortress US championships this weekend, gold — that she won at the Rio de where Biles capped her record- Janeiro Olympics in 2016. tying sixth national all-around Even as Biles continues to as- The sight of big men in gold jerseys title with a never-before-seen tonish in competition, she ad- “triple-double” fl oor exercise mitted as the national champi- sending All Blacks sprawling was a landing — a fi nale featuring two onships began that it was “not fl ips and three twists. easy coming back to the sport, sweet one for Wallabies fans Even Biles admitted she coming back to the organisation Reuters lock. Four-test Jackson Hemopo couldn’t wait to see the replay that has failed you.” Auckland and Vaea Fifi ta are also backups, of the move, whipping out her She was among more than 200 though the latter has played all phone between rotations to athletes abused by former US but one of his 11 tests as a loose check out the video. “I didn’t gymnastics team doctor Larry ecent years have off ered forward. want to be the last person to see Nassar and has been an outspo- few moments where The Wallabies, meanwhile, it,” she said. Biles — who already ken critic of how US Gymnastics Australia could claim an fi elded fi ve locks in their match- has a vault skill and a fl oor exer- and the US Olympic Committee advantage over the All day squad in Perth, with Adam cise manoeuvre named for her failed to protect athletes. BlacksR in the second row but the Coleman and Luke Jones on as their originator — pressed the While she continues to wrestle Wallabies will head to Eden Park the bench and utility forward limits in balance beam in Kan- with the aftermath, Biles’s joy on Saturday in a rare position of Lukhan Salakaia-Loto starting sas City, too, with a double-fl ip, was evident on Sunday when she strength in the locking positions. at blindside fl anker. Even before double-twist beam dismount. posted a picture of herself on In- Brodie Retallick’s shoulder Barrett’s dismissal the Wallabies’ Lee was more than content stagram. “That feeling when you injury comes as a huge relief for beef proved decisive in the colli- with her silver, while Morgan make history... twice,” the beam- the Wallabies, who still have rue- sions and elicited an honest ad- Hurd, who fi nished fourth, called ing gymnast wrote. ful memories of his marauding mission from hooker Dane Coles 2018 Rugby Championship cam- that the world champions had paign. A constant menace at the been outmuscled. breakdown and at lineout time, The sight of big men in gold Retallick was instrumental in last jerseys sending All Blacks year’s morale-sapping defeat of sprawling was a sweet one for the hosts in Sydney, where his long-suff ering Wallabies fans audacious feint, step and touch- but not the only obvious im- line sprint was awarded World provement in Australia’s game. Rugby’s try of the year. In the space of a year the lin- Scott Barrett’s red card in eout has been transformed from Perth last week and subsequent a national embarrassment into three-week suspension is an- something of a force. other boost for Michael Cheika’s Australia lost eight of their 12 men. Barrett’s high hit on Aus- lineout throws in a chaotic start tralia captain Michael Hooper on to last year’s Rugby Champion- the stroke of halftime helped the ship in Sydney but won a tourna- Wallabies to a 47-26 win while ment-best 90% of them across ensuring a test of the All Blacks their three matches this year. depth just six weeks out from the “I don’t think we’ll be targeting World Cup. the lineout saying we can get one Not that the Wallabies are over them,” said Arnold. “But I publicly celebrating. “They’ve think it’s going to be a very, very got a lot of good depth there in close contest.” New Zealand,” Wallabies lock The Wallabies are constantly Rory Arnold, who started along- reminded of another statistic, side Izack Rodda in Perth, told that whether in good form or reporters in Melbourne. “I’m bad, they have not beaten the All sure the next bloke that comes Blacks at Eden Park since 1986. in for those fellows will be just as They will need to do so to claim good as they are.” the Bledisloe Cup — the annual The All Blacks have off ered no series contested between the na- clues as to who the ‘next bloke’ tions — for the fi rst time since will be, but Patrick Tuipulotu 2002. And the hosts rarely have is the only lock with consider- two bad games in a row. “It’s in Australia’s Rob Simmons (top right) takes lineout ball over Scott Barrett of New Zealand during the able test experience left in the their backyard, they’re a diff er- Simone Biles in action on the uneven bars at the US Gymnastics Rugby Championship Bledisloe Cup match in Perth on Saturday. (AFP) squad after stalwart Sam White- ent beast there,” said Arnold. Championships in Kansas City, Missouri. (AFP)

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Humbled in Perth, All Blacks must All Blacks bring in legend Carter AFP ence after a stellar 112-Test ca- victory in Perth and saw the lock Wellington reer that included winning two suspended for three weeks. show Wallabies who’s boss World Cups and three World Despite that setback, former Rugby player of the year awards. All Black Ian Jones called for fi re Reuters he All Blacks have draft- “I’m actually keen to get him in and brimstone from the men in Wellington ed in legendary fl y-half to chat to our playmakers,” Foster black in Auckland, saying they Dan Carter to calm any said. “He’s got a lot of World Cup had to prove a point by muscling nerves among the falter- experience and I just wanted to up to the Wallabies. “They’ve he All Blacks have had Ting world champions ahead of really have him around, again to got to physically go straight and no shortage of advice on this weekend’s Bledisloe Cup de- talk to the likes of Beaudy and knock these guys around and get how to rectify last week’s cider against Australia. A shock Richie about what it’s like driv- into that zone,” Jones said. 47-26 defeat to Australia 47-26 loss to the Wallabies has ing a team through a World Cup “(Show them) this is the for- Tbut one thing is clear, the for- rattled the All Blacks, calling campaign where expectations are tress, this is All Black rugby, this wards must stamp their author- into question their experimental high. Who better to tell that story is how we’re going to beat these ity on Saturday’s game right from strategy of fi elding two playmak- than him.” Wallabies up, and just smack the fi rst whistle if they are to re- ers in Beauden Barrett and Richie Foster has talked up the need them around in that regard.” tain the Bledisloe Cup. Mo’unga. for discipline if New Zealand are The 79-Test veteran said The Wallabies romped to a Assistant coach Ian Foster said to retain the Bledisloe Cup for New Zealand could not expect record 47-26 victory over the Carter joined the New Zealand- a 17th year and defeat Australia Eden Park’s intimidation factor world champions in Perth, giv- ers at training in Auckland on again at an Eden Park venue to aff ect the fi red-up Austral- ing Michael Cheika’s side the Tuesday to off er advice to Barrett where the Wallabies have not ians. “They can’t just rely on chance to get their hands on the and Mo’unga. The 37-year-old, won since 1986. Scott Barrett’s this wonderful Eden Park factor, Bledisloe Cup for the fi rst time who retired from internationals red card for a shoulder charge they’ll have to front up to them- since 2002. in 2015, has a wealth of experi- cost the All Blacks any chance of selves,” he said. Cheika’s team were better in every department last Saturday, winning the collisions to get momentum and holding onto TAYLOR BACK AS SCOTLAND NAME TEAM the ball to put pressure on a poor All Blacks defensive line. FOR WORLD CUP WARM-UP IN FRANCE New Zealand looked shell- shocked at the fi nal whistle after London: Duncan Taylor will get while uncapped Warriors lock coach Gregor Townsend said. suff ering just their fourth loss in the chance to claim a berth in Scott Cummings and Northamp- Scotland are due to name their their last 25 tests against Aus- Scotland’s Rugby World Cup ton Saints centre Rory Hutchin- 31-man Rugby World Cup squad tralia and hooker Dane Coles squad after being selected for son were named on the bench on Sept. 3. said this week they had possibly the first time in two years for and should make their debuts taken the Wallabies too lightly. New Zealand players perform the Haka before the Rugby Championship Bledisloe Cup match against their match against France tomorrow. Team: 15-Stuart Hogg, 14-Darcy The manner of defeat, al- Australia in Perth last Saturday. (AFP) tomorrow. Taylor will partner Scotland will host France in Graham, 13-Huw Jones, 12-Dun- beit by a 14-man side after lock with Huw Jones in midfield on a return fixture on Aug. 24 at can Taylor, 11-Byron McGui- Scott Barrett was sent off for feet of the forwards. “They’ve have to dampen that, we have to Three years ago the All Blacks his return since last playing for Murrayfield before away and gan, 10-Adam Hastings, 9- Ali a dangerous shoulder charge got to physically go straight and physically get into them, knock were labelled “thugs” by the the national side in 2017 against home tests against Georgia next Price, 8-Josh Strauss, 7-Jamie on the stroke of halftime, also knock these guys around and them around and show them media after a brutal test against Fiji in Suva. month round off World Cup Ritchie, 6-John Barclay, 5-Grant prompted some naval gazing in get into that zone,” former All who’s boss.” Ireland, a match that came two His last 24 months have been preparations. Gilchrist, 4-Ben Toolis, 3-Simon rugby-mad New Zealand ahead Blacks lock Ian Jones said yes- Sam Whitelock, who is likely weeks after Joe Schmidt’s side blighted by injury. Adam Hast- “These four tests are a vital Berghan, 2-Stuart McInally of Saturday’s game at Eden terday. to be partnered in the second had recorded their fi rst victory ings has a first start at flyhalf part of that process in terms (captain), 1-Jamie Bhatti Park. “It’s about...’this is All Black row by Patrick Tuipulotu on over the three-times World Cup since last November’s interna- of testing our systems and Replacements: 16-George While muddled decision rugby, this is how we’re going Saturday in the wake of Barrett’s winners. tional against Argentina and will combinations but also in seeing Turner, 17-Gordon Reid, making, rusty combinations, to beat these Wallabies up,’ and three-week suspension, added “We want to play hard but be partnered by Glasgow War- which players put their best foot 18-Zander Fagerson, 19-Scott poor execution and question- just smack them around in that that the forwards had accepted we’ve also got to play fair,” riors club mate Ali Price in Nice. forward when it comes to selec- Cummings, 20-Matt Fagerson, able selections were off ered up regard. “Do I expect the Wal- they needed to up their inten- Whitelock said. “We’ve still got Edinburgh hooker Stuart tion for the final 31-man group 21-George Horne, 22-Rory as reasons for last week’s defeat, labies to be able to perform at sity but must also be mindful of to bring that physical edge but McInally will captain the side going to Japan next month,” Hutchinson, 23-Blair Kinghorn. for many the answer lay at the the level again? Yes, I do... we their discipline. within the letter of the law.” Gulf Times Thursday, August 15, 2019 5 SPORT

MLB Flaherty continues hot streak as Cardinals blank Royals Pitcher Flaherty has the longest current scoreless-innings streak in the majors at 23 innings

Reuters Kansas City, US MLB RESULTS Red Sox 7 Indians 6; Twins 7, Brewers 5; Mariners 11, Tigers 6; Yankees 8, ack Flaherty continued his re- cent hot streak with seven shut- Orioles 3; Diamondbacks 9, Rockies 3; out innings, and the St. Louis Giants 3, A’s 2; Cardinals 2, Royals 0; Cardinals defeated the Kansas Dodgers 15, Marlins 1; Braves 5, CityJ Royals 2-0 Tuesday in Kansas Mets 3; Astros 6, White Sox 2 (Game 1); City. Flaherty has the longest current White Sox 4, Astros 1 (Game 2); scoreless-innings streak in the majors Blue Jays 3, Rangers 0; Nationals 3, at 23 innings. Reds 1; Phillies 4, Cubs 2; Pirates 10, The Cardinals improved to 37-20 all- Angels 7; Rays 7, Padres 5 time at Kauff man Stadium. Flaherty (6-6) is just 2-1 in his last seven starts, road trip in which they set a club record but it’s not because of his eff orts. He’s with 22 home runs. But the off ense was allowed just four earned runs over 45 in short supply on Tuesday. The Cardi- 1/3 innings (0.79 ERA), beginning with nals got a gift run in the top of the fi rst. a loss in San Francisco July 6, when he Dexter Fowler reached on an error by allowed one run on two hits in seven in- third baseman Cheslor Cuthbert. He nings. He allowed just three hits Tues- moved to second on a balk by Spark- day while striking out seven with one man, who slipped off the mound on walk. Carlos Martinez got the fi nal two his delivery. He moved to third on a outs for his 13th save in 16 chances. groundout and scored on Paul Gold- The Royals didn’t mount much of schmidt’s sacrifi ce fl y. a threat against Flaherty. They had St. Louis grabbed another run in the two runners on base in the fi rst and third. Lane Thomas scored from sec- the sixth innings, but couldn’t come ond on Tommy Edman’s two-out RBI through with the big hit. single. Sparkman appeared to work out Flaherty said he’s better execut- of a jam, allowing the fi rst two runners ing, locating and trusting his pitches to reach. Kolten Wong was thrown out depending on the situation at hand. at third trying to advance to third on “You don’t have to nibble all the time,” a pitch in the dirt. But Thomas’ single he said. “Sometimes you’re going to gave the Cardinals a cushion. fall behind and get into not-so-great counts. But you’re going to have to YANKEES ROLL OVER ORIOLES challenge hitters depending on the WITH A SERIES SWEEP IN SIGHT situation, playing the game within the The Yankees have proven they can sub- game and not just playing to the cor- due the Orioles with or without hitting ners every time. Then you can get in a home runs and with or without a strong situation, fi rst and second nobody out, start on the mound. They’ll get only it’s time to bear down, work the cor- one more chance to do so in Wednes- ners and really execute. As long as at day’s series fi nale, having improved to the end of the day we’ve got more runs 16-2 against Baltimore with Tuesday’s than they do, that’s all that matters,” 8-3 win at Yankee Stadium. Flaherty said. “It’s just continuing to go On the horizon is a four-game set out and execute.” with AL Central frontrunner Cleveland Glenn Sparkman (3-8) was the hard- – which will cap a stretch of 19 games luck loser for Kansas City. He gave up in 17 days – followed by a nine-game St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Jack Flaherty pitches against the Kansas City Royals during the MLB match in Kansas City on Tuesday. (USA TODAY Sports) just two runs (one earned) over six in- West Coast swing with stops at wild- nings. It was a nice turnaround for card hopeful Oakland and two-time NL base hits provided the run support for a potential Game 1 postseason series delicate balancing act. Boone said before the game. “But you Sparkman, who had given up 22 earned champ Los Angeles. Domingo German (16-2) and fuelled starter, he also got closer to a career- “The bottom line is, we obviously could see his role potentially evolve in runs over 19 2/3 innings in his four Just one ball hit by a Yankee left the New York’s 80th victory of the season. high total of pro innings in a single sea- have a very good pitcher for us this year diff erent ways as the fi nal month-and- starts since throwing a shutout against park on Tuesday, and it was the fi rst one German gave the Yanks seven innings son (120). that continues to get better at his craft, a-half plays out.” German threw 123.1 the White Sox on July 16. that Orioles starter John Means threw of fi ve-hit, two-run ball, striking out In other words, the right-hander’s and it’s somebody that we’ll obviously innings in the minors in 2014 and 123.2 The Royals were fresh off a 10-game to DJ LeMahieu. After that, a parade of seven. While he continued to look like usage down the stretch could become a watch closely,” Yankees manager Aaron (109.1 in the majors) two years ago.

NFL NBA Tate loses appeal of 4-game ban Does LeBron fi t among Lakers greats? Reuters Players Association, Tate didn’t lard said that Luck’s problem is New York follow the protocol to qualify for a high ankle issue, specifi cally to a Therapeutic Use Exemption, the front of the ankle. And while which is available to players who Ballard wasn’t ruling Luck out ew York Giants wide needed medications for spe- for the Colts’ season opener on receiver Golden Tate cifi c conditions. “No one is more Sept. 8 on the road against the lost the appeal of his upset than myself, but moving Los Angeles Chargers, the QB four-game suspension forward, all I can do is continue “most likely” won’t take part in Nfor violating the NFL policy on to be a leader, continue to hold preseason games. performance-enhancing drugs. myself to the highest character “We’re 3 1/2 weeks away from Tate’s appeal was heard by an ar- and integrity, and soon make the regular season, so I’m not ready biter in New York on Tuesday. biggest impact on the fi eld,” Tate to say” whether Luck will take Tate will reportedly forfeit said in his statement. part, Ballard said. With the new $465,000 in base salary. Tate The Giants signed Tate to a diagnosis, Ballard hopes that an previously indicated that the four-year, $37.5mn contract dur- appropriate change in treating positive test came from a pre- ing the off season. He spent the Luck’s leg can still get him ready scribed fertility medication. He 2018 season with the Detroit for the regular season. said he reported the use to the Lions and Philadelphia Eagles, Ballard’s comments came a league and the Giants prior to catching 74 passes for 795 yards day after team owner Jim Irsay testing positive. and four touchdowns. said the reason for Luck’s ex- The 31-year-old was disap- Over nine NFL seasons, Tate tended absence from practice is pointed to learn that the suspen- has 611 receptions for 7,214 yards related to a “small little bone” in sion was upheld. “This morning, and 38 touchdowns. Cody Lat- his left leg — the ostrigonum, a I received the unfortunate news imer is expected to join the start- small bone behind the ankle. that my appeal was denied,” Tate ing lineup during Tate’s suspen- Luck, who turns 30 next By Arash Markazi Lakers uniform was vandalised playoff game since 2012. dul-Jabbar for fi rst on the list. said in a statement. “I went into sion. The 26-year-old has 46 month, originally injured his Los Angeles Times by someone who spray-painted “If he plays well and the team If James, 34, plays four more this arbitration with the under- catches for 635 yards and four calf in April and has participated over his face and wrote, “We is contending and in the play- seasons he would likely pass standing that due to the facts, touchdowns in 51 games over fi ve in only limited fashion in three don’t want you.” Abdul-Jabbar, off s and advancing late in the Abdul-Jabbar and could fi nish unlike many other cases, we NFL campaigns. practices in training camp. That eBron James is undoubt- who played 14 of his 20 seasons playoff s that should be enough,” a 20-year career as the all-time could be the exception to win. brought the initial word that he edly one of the greatest for the Lakers, believes James Abdul-Jabbar said. “He doesn’t leader in points and the only Unfortunately the NFL stood by COLTS’S ANDREW LUCK was dealing with a calf strain. NBA players of all time, deserves to be on the list of Lak- have anything to prove to any- player to record at least 30,000 their no tolerance policy, which I INJURES ANKLE Luck was the NFL’s Comeback and could go down as the ers greats and will begin to show one, but Lakers fans are still points and 10,000 assists. If hope one day to help have a part The Indianapolis Colts on Tues- Player of the Year in 2018, pass- Lgreatest by the time he retires. fans why this season. hungry and that’s a good sign. he wins a championship with in reforming, so no other player day gave a third suspected cause ing for 4,593 yards and 39 touch- However, he’s fi nding out that “He’s already shown he’s still They want to win and they want the Lakers during that time, has to go through this situation.” for the pain that quarterback downs after sitting out the entire being an all-time NBA great the complete player that the to support the team.” he should be thought of as an Tate will be eligible to re- Andrew Luck has been feeling 2017 season because of a shoul- doesn’t necessarily make you an Lakers wanted so I don’t think O’Neal posted the same photo all-time Lakers great. The best turn to the Giants on Sept. 30, in his lower left leg, this time der injury. It’s possible a third all-time Lakers great. he needs to worry about that,” James did on his Instagram feed comparison would be Cham- one day after the club’s Week 4 not involving the “small little quarterback would be kept on James recently posted an Abdul-Jabbar said Monday dur- and said he would play power berlain, who played the fi nal game against the Washington bone” that team owner Jim Irsay the Colts’ 53-man roster behind artist’s rendering of himself, ing a phone interview while at- forward with Abdul-Jabbar fi ve seasons of his hall of fame Redskins. According to policies blamed it on the day before. Jacoby Brissett, who would start Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic tending the grand opening of playing center on that Lakers career with the Lakers and won agreed to by the NFL and NFL General manager Chris Bal- if Luck is absent. Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal and NBA Experience at Walt Disney “dream team.” He also said he one championship in Los Ange- Kobe Bryant in Lakers uniforms, World Resort in Florida. “They would put Abdul-Jabbar and les before retiring. sitting courtside together as just needed to put the right Wilt Chamberlain over himself The key is winning a champi- teammates. The post has nearly pieces in place around him. You when ranking the best Lak- onship, and that will ultimately 2mn likes but many of the more can’t win a world championship ers centers. “It’s nice that Shaq determine how Lakers fans view than 20,000 comments are from with just one elite player. You would say that but I’ve always James. The same goes for Davis, Lakers fans reminding James he need some help and I think he felt you can’t really compare who is hoping to become the hasn’t done enough wearing has that now.” eras,” Abdul-Jabbar said. “We next great Lakers big man to purple and gold to be included Abdul-Jabbar wouldn’t make don’t know how dominant help them win a title. in that company. any championship predictions, George Mikan was in the late “I think Davis is a complete This kind of backlash from but he did say the Lakers with ’40s and early ’50s. It’s just hard NBA player,” Abdul-Jabbar said. Lakers fans is nothing new for James and the additions of An- to compare one era to the next.” “He can do it all on both ends James. A mural depicting James thony Davis and DeMarcus James is fourth on the NBA’s of the court. He’s going to be a along with Chick Hearn, Bryant, Cousins could win a champi- all-time scoring list behind great addition and the fact that O’Neal, Abdul-Jabbar and Wilt onship. And he expects Lakers Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone and he has played with Cousins be- Chamberlain was vandalised fans to warm up to James if the Bryant. He will likely pass Bry- fore in New Orleans and they’ll last year when someone poured Lakers are playing meaning- ant this season, which will cre- be teammates again will be white paint over James’ image ful games in May and June af- ate another interesting moment good. They have some history, and left the others untouched. ter missing the playoff s the last between Lakers fans and James, and now they’re going to team New York Giants wide receiver Golden Tate. (USA TODAY Sports) Another mural of James in a six seasons and failing to win a who is 5,844 points behind Ab- up with LeBron James.” Gulf Times 6 Thursday, August 15, 2019 SPORT

TENNIS F1 Albon to fi ght for Red Bull chance; Bottas, Federer, Djokovic Hulkenberg fear advance as Serena pulls out of Cincy ‘I’m very happy, even if it was a bit tricky with the rain delay. I’m happy to be back on court’ Thai driver Alexander Albon. DPA There has been speculation Berlin about a return of Sebastian Vettel who won his four world titles at Red Bull 2010-2013 hailand’s Alexander but he appears set to stay at Albon has the chance Ferrari, where he is however to secure a place at yet to win a title. Red Bull next year if he Renault’s Nico Huelken- Tdrives well for them in the sec- berg has been mentioned as ond half of the F1 season. well because his position at Others such as Valtteri Bot- Renault is precarious after tas and Nico Huelkenberg may Cyril Abiteboul said recently be sweating over their future he didn’t get the results based instead of enjoying a peaceful on his talent and threw away and relaxed summer holiday a possible podium at his Ger- like world champion and 2019 man home grand prix. leader Lewis Hamilton is in the Should the German, who Caribbean. has the dubious F1 record of Red Bull on Monday de- 168 races without a podium moted Pierre Gasly back to - have to go he may also fi nd sister team Toro Rosso after a new team in Haas who for only modest results in the fi rst their part are unlikely to retain 12 races, with Albon going the the ill-fated Kevin other way from the next race Another Haas candidate is on Belgium on September 1. France’s Esteban Ocon who “The team will use the next but as a highly-rated Mer- nine races to evaluate Alex’s cedes test driver may also land performance in order to make Bottas’ seat because the Finn an informed decision as to is having mixed results at the who will drive alongside Max world champions. in 2020,” Red Bull said. “Esteban has a lot of tal- Red Bull still appear to be ent, ambition, and he has looking for a competitive gone through diffi cult times,” partner for their star Max Ver- Mercedes motorsport chief stappen after the departure of Toto Wolff said of Ocon who Daniel Ricciardo for Renault had 50 F1 races before having following the past season. to give way at the former Force Verstappen is a two-time India team for Lance Stroll season winner and third in the once his father took over as championship, garnering 118 investor. more points than Gasly who Wolff also pledged that “we has seemingly failed to make wouldn’t sabotage Esteban’s Roger Federer reacts during his match against Juan Ignacio Londero at the Cincinnati Masters Novak Djokovic celebrates a point against Sam Querrey during their Cincinnati the most of a competitive car. career” because “he deserves a at Lindner Family Tennis Center in Mason, Ohio. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Masters match at Lindner Family Tennis Center in Mason, Ohio. (Getty Images/AFP) Should Albon not meet the chance in Formula One” - the high expectations the team statement suggesting Ocon AFP in the Wimbledon fi nal, it was a but quickly put things right and Sunday and have tried every- a 5-1 lead in the fi nal set but may have to look beyond its could sign for another team Cincinnati smooth start to their US Open pulled away for a 7-5, 6-1 victory thing to be ready to play tonight, wasted two match points garage and lure a driver from should Mercedes decide to re- build-up. over the American. and was still hopeful after my in the eighth game and was another team. tain Bottas. Federer, seeded third, re- “I ended the match well even if practice this morning,” Williams broken twice while serving for oger Federer and Novak mained unruffl ed by a one-hour the start was nervy,” said Djoko- said in a statement released by victory. Djokovic overwhelmed rain interruption at 2-2 in the vic, who would break Querrey tournament offi cials. Wawrinka had to hold off his opponents at the WTA- second set, eventually defeating twice to take the fi rst set then roll “But unfortunately my back is Bulgarian opponent in the fi nal- ATP Cincinnati Masters Argentina’s Juan Ignacio Lon- to victory. still not right.” set tiebreaker before squeezing onR Tuesday, where Serena Wil- dero 6-3, 6-4 to reach the third “Sam was feeling comfortable It’s another injury blow for the through in more than two and a liams withdrew because of back round at the event he has won on the court at the start and dic- 37-year-old American, who was half hours with his 10th ace. trouble. seven times. tating. It was tough facing his big hampered by knee trouble earlier Williams had hoped to re- “I’m very happy, even if it was serve,” Djokovic said. this season and remains in search VENUS TOPPLES BERTENS bound from the back spasms a bit tricky with the rain delay,” He added that he was “hop- of her fi rst title since the 2017 Venus Williams kept the fam- that forced her out of the WTA Federer said. “I’m happy to be ing for a better performance in Australian Open. In early ac- ily fl ag fl ying, the 39-year-old fi nal in Toronto on Sunday, back on court. the next round,” when he’ll take tion, Stan Wawrinka won a fi rst- American putting her decades where she lasted only four games “This is the start of a long, long on Spanish qualifi er Pablo Car- round battle as he eliminated of experience to good use in a before retiring. hardcourt swing. It’s good to be- reno Busta - who withstood 32 2017 Cincinnati champion Grigor 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (7/4) victory But the 23-time Grand Slam gin with a win. I didn’t know that aces from John Isner and a match Dimitrov 5-7, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4). over defending champion Kiki champion said her back was much about my opponent - he’s point before beating the Ameri- Under leaden skies after an Bertens. “still not right” casting a further new to the tour - but at the end can 6-4, 6-7 (1/7), 7-6 (8/6). overnight thunderstorm, Dim- “Before the match I felt quite shadow on her chances at the US you have to concentrate on your Williams, meanwhile, was itrov broke in the 12th game of good. Stepping on court, I’d say Open starting in Flushing Mead- own game.” left just trying to get healthy af- the fi rst set to take the lead. fi rst few games was pretty bad,” ows on August 26. Defending champion Djoko- ter pulling out of her scheduled The 33-year-old Swiss fought Bertens said. For Djokovic and Federer, back vic double faulted three times fi rst-round match against quali- back with the only break in the “I didn’t start the match in a in action for the fi rst time since as he dropped serve in the open- fi er Zarina Diyas. second set. loose way. I knew that I had to the Serb’s victory over the Swiss ing game against Sam Querrey “I came to Mason (Ohio) on Wawrinka then raced into defend the title.” Mercedes driver Valtteri Bottas.

WEIGHTLIFTING Doping scandal snarls Thai Olympics medal machine AFP from the rural hinterland into ally come from yourself and your (ITA) rules on the cases. Chiang Mai, Thailand celebrities. The dream turned determination to train.” The International Weightlift- sour last year, when Thailand The men’s and women’s team ing Federation, which handed was caught in a global doping sleep in dorms near the gym and over testing management to the hai weightlifter Sarat crackdown by weightlifting au- eat three high-protein meals a Switzerland-based ITA last year, Sumpradit eats up to 10 thorities that was prompted by a day. At around 9:30 pm, coaches did not respond to requests for egg whites for break- threat to expel the sport from the whisk away their phones to en- comment. fast, works out four Olympic Games. sure a sound night’s sleep. The situation has been de- Thours a day, and is banned from Nine Thais including reign- moralising for the Thai team, his smartphone at night as his ing Olympic champions Sukanya ‘I BOUGHT MY MOM A HOUSE’ who started collecting Olympic training shifts into high gear for Srisurat and Sopita Tanasan Thailand says the athletes who medals at Sydney in 2000, when the world championships. have returned positive drug tests tested positive were given a pain women’s weightlifting made its However, the muscle-bound since the world championships relief gel by a former coach that debut at the Games. 25-year-old has a problem: in November, where Thailand — unbeknown to them — had Khassaraporn Suta became Thailand is under a self-imposed fi nished second in the medals small traces of an anabolic ster- Thailand’s fi rst-ever women’s ban from weightlifting for dop- table. It prompted Thailand to oid. Thai association honorary Olympic medallist with bronze ing, meaning the hosts may be voluntarily ban itself from com- president Intarat Yodbangtoey in Sydney, raising the profi le of unrepresented at next month’s petition, ruling its lifters out of also suspects the country was weightlifting in a country where world championships on home the world championships in Pat- singled out, as many of the ath- football, boxing, badminton and turf in Pattaya. taya and next year’s Olympics. letes passed tests before their golf are more popular. After nine Thai lifters were samples were among others sent The benefi ts can be lucrative, suspended following drug tests, DOZENS OF CHEATS for a second, more stringent with Thai athletes receiving fi - Thailand is facing a crisis in its However, the Thai Amateur round of testing. nancial rewards from sponsors most successful Olympic sport, Weightlifting Association “We teach them a lot, don’t and government funds. Twenty- less than a year before the 2020 (TAWA) now wants athletes who drink, don’t eat, and don’t inject year-old lifter Jiraporn Nanta- Games in Tokyo. did not test positive to compete anything (illegal),” he said in his wong said she has been able to “I’m fi ghting for those who in the world championships and Bangkok offi ce. “Where is the help her family out of debt. have been suspended,” Sarat have a shot at the Olympics. This photo taken on July 18, 2019, shows weightlifter Sarat Sumpradit practising cleans during a training justice?” “We are more comfortable. I said defi antly after his afternoon A fi nal decision will be made session at the national team’s training camp in the northern province of Chiang Mai. (AFP) He said many of the weight- bought my mom a house,” she workout, his second of the day. next month by the International lifters are from the countryside said. “Most of the team has “There are only a few of us left Weightlifting Federation, which re-testing of samples from the Sarat insisted his teammates a conspiracy against the Thai where the sport off ers a way out problems with money.” (in the team).” With fi ve Olym- has come under sustained calls 2008 and 2012 Olympics en- were unfairly targeted. team. “If you can cut the Thai of poverty, and that the scandal The diminutive lifter, like pic gold medals since 2004, all to act after a long list of doping snared dozens of cheats. “We were on the same team. team, other countries might had left them feeling “hopeless”. Sarat, said her main target now is won by women, weightlifting incidents. At the stuff y training camp in We went to the Olympics to- have chances.” “It will kill them,” he said, to “preserve our dignity by per- has been a rare sporting success Nine countries, including Chiang Mai, where trophies cov- gether. We ate and trained the But he conceded the drug- of penalties that could be forming very well”. story for the Southeast Asian powerhouse China, were sus- er the wall and lycra-clad lifters same way. But why didn’t I test plagued sport needs to clean up handed down after the Inter- “No matter what, the sport nation, turning ordinary people pended from competition after heave weights above their head, positive?” he said, suggesting its act. “The strength should re- national Testing Agency rules will not go down.” Gulf Times Thursday, August 15, 2019 7 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Semenya says she never felt supported by other women Reuters Semenya is appealing the Court what can I call it... these rude re- Johannesburg of Arbitration for Sport’s (CAS) sponses in terms of me competing ruling that supported regulations against them,” said Semenya. introduced by the sport’s govern- British runner Lynsey Sharp ouble Olympic champi- ing body, the International As- said in May that she had received on Caster Semenya, who sociation of Athletics Federations death threats for past comments has been locked in a bat- (IAAF). she made about the South Afri- tle over her testosterone These say that XY chromosome can. levelsD with athletics authorities, athletes with diff erences in sexual Semenya, who was greeted by said yesterday that she has not development (DSDs) can race in cheers at the conference, said she felt supported by other women in distances from 400m to a mile still saw herself as a middle dis- sport. only if they take medication to tance runner. The South African athlete will reach a reduced testosterone level. “Whoever is going to stop me not be able to defend her 800m ti- Despite the IAAF receiving from running is going to have to tle at the world championships in support from some current and drag me out of the track,” Semen- September after the Swiss Federal former athletes, the decision ya said. Tribunal reversed a ruling that to reduce testosterone levels in The 28-year-old said she was temporarily lifted testosterone women’s athletics has also at- undecided about whether she regulations imposed on her. tracted criticism from human would switch to longer distanc- “Since I have been in sport I rights organisations. The United es or pursue a career in another have never really felt very sup- Nations Human Rights Council sport. ported, I’ve never felt recognised adopted a resolution in support of “In terms of changing events mostly by women,” said Semenya Semenya in March. I haven’t decide anything about during a women’s conference in “I think it comes more into the moving up or moving down. I still Johannesburg where she was the international stage when you see consider myself a middle distance headline speaker. your own rivals come with this... runner,” Semenya said. South African athlete Caster Semenya speaks at a women’s conference in Johannesburg yesterday. (Reuters)

ATHLETICS India manager called back from Windies, future appointment under cloud Kipchoge likens sub-two The axe has finally fallen on Team India manager Sunil Sub- ramanium as he has been asked to return from the ongoing tour of the West Indies at the earliest for misbehaving with bureau- crats in the Caribbean Islands. Having escaped Down Under hour marathon attempt after he misbehaved during the Perth Test in December 2018, it was just a matter of time that he fell prey to his own conduct ‘It’s like stepping on the moon, going and that is exactly what has happened as the Committee up the tallest mountain and even of Administrators (CoA) were informed of the issue by senior to moon landing government off icials in India. going to the middle of the ocean’ Speaking to IANS, a board func- Reuters tionary confirmed the develop- London ment and said that it would be interesting to see if he is now also barred from contesting for enyan world record the position of manager – the holder Eliud Kipchoge appointment is set to happen by says running a mara- the end of this month. thon in under two “Yes, mails have been ex- Khours would be comparable in changed and while he has the annals of human achieve- spoken about how it was an ment to standing on the moon or inadvertent mistake, the top scaling Everest for the fi rst time. bosses are pretty clear that he The 2016 Olympic marathon needs to return. Citing stress gold medallist, speaking to re- when you are a representative porters from his home training of the country cannot really be a camp in Kaptagat yesterday, justification. was sure he too could enter un- “As for the role of manager, it charted territory in Vienna on remains to be seen if he will be October 12. allowed or barred. Depends on “It’s like stepping on the how the executives take to his moon, going up the tallest reasoning once he is back in the mountain and even going to the country. But this isn’t the first middle of the ocean,” said Kip- time that he has been caught choge who ran 2:00.25 in his napping when it comes to his previous non-world record at- conduct as manager of the tempt at Italy’s Monza motor Indian team and the episode in racing circuit in 2017. the Caribbean Islands could be “I have no doubts at all,” add- the death knell,” the functionary ed the 34-year-old, who said said. he also wanted to make history The Board of Control for Cricket before next year’s Tokyo in India (BCCI) had informed the Olympics. two High Commissions that Sub- INEOS have yet to provide ramanium was the go-to-man details about race day plans and for a commercial that was to be identities of the offi cial paceset- shot in the Caribbean Island. But ters in the 1:59 challenge http:// when an off icial from the Indian www.ineos159challenge.com High Commission in Trinidad The conference call, on a line & Tobago checked with the that was at times barely audi- manager, Subramanium refused ble, was restricted to questions to entertain the person. about Kipchoge’s preparations. Earlier, a BCCI functionary had Norwegian brothers Henrik, said that earlier instances being Filip and Jakob Ingebrigtsen told ignored led to this situation. national broadcaster NRK this And this too would have been week, however, that they had ignored if it wasn’t the High been approached to run as pace- Commission and the heat wasn’t setters. on CoA chief Vinod Rai. “I have been hare for Filip and Eliud Kipchoge reveals plans to break two hour marathon record. (Reuters) “He was emboldened because Jakob for many years, so it will no action was taken on account go well,” said Henrik, 28 and the letics championships in Doha ing a key role in my quest.” “I think it’s about history, that. This is for the human fam- mentally... this time I know of earlier misdemeanours and European 1,500m champion in end on October 6. Any sub-two hour time will not about leaving a legacy,” said the ily.” The Kenyan said his training what will happen. Certainly I am only because there is heat on 2012. “Marathon is no longer an be ratifi ed for record purposes Kenyan. was going well, he was rising at feeling good,” he added. Rai that action is being taken Jakob, 18, won 1,500 and individual event, it’s a team by the IAAF, the governing “So I am going to make his- 5 a.m. and running 200-220km Kipchoge said he planned to this time. 5,000m gold at last year’s Euro- event,” said Kipchoge, who set body of athletics, because of the tory and leave a legacy. It’s not a week. arrive in Vienna about a week “During the Perth Test, there pean championships while Filip, the world record of 2:01.39 in use of pacemakers and other about making a world record. I “What has changed is mental before the attempt and will jog was an oral communication 26, won 1,500 bronze at the 2017 Berlin last September. aids but Kipchoge was uncon- am already a record holder for preparation,” he said. over the 4.3km Prater Hauptal- from the catering unit to Cricket worlds. This year’s world ath- “The pacemakers are play- cerned. marathon... I think I have done “I am really better prepared lee course. Australia operations manager Adam Fraser about the manager making some staff uncomfort- CRICKET able with his behaviour. “This isn’t the end of the story. After the team’s historic series win Down Under, there were certain orders made for celebra- Gayle blasts 72 before rain halts third ODI tion and the stuff that remained unused went with the manager AFP Evin Lewis (43) put on 115 for the fi rst ca’s Mzansi Super League Twenty20 Mandela Giants, based in Port Eliza- for personal consumption,” the Port of Spain wicket. competition. beth. functionary pointed. India hold an unassailable 1-0 lead Cricket South Africa announced West Indian Chris Gayle will be the In fact, even during the recently following the 59-run win via the DLS the names of six local and six over- overseas marquee player for defend- concluded World Cup, board hris Gayle bludgeoned 72 method in the second ODI at the seas players, each allocated to one of ing champions Jozi Stars, whose local personnel weren’t too happy off just 41 balls as West In- same venue on Sunday. Rain forced the six franchises taking part in the player is fast bowler Kagiso Rabada. with his behaviour. dies reached 158 for two off the abandonment of the fi rst match in tournament, which will be held in Quinton de Kock (Cape Town “Anyone who has interacted 22 overs before rain brought Guyana as a no-result last week. November and December. Blitz), Andile Phehlukwayo (Durban with the team manager has Cthe third and fi nal match of their one- De Villiers, who has retired from Heat), Imran Tahir (Nelson Mandela been left utterly disappointed day series against India at the Queen’s DE VILLIERS, ROY AMONG international cricket and is unlikely Bay Giants) and Faf du Plessis (Paarl with his conduct and approach. Park Oval to a halt yesterday. STARS IN SOUTH AFRICAN to play any other domestic cricket Rocks) are the other South African Obtaining tickets and passes Gayle, 39, went into the match hav- T20 SUPER LEAGUE in South Africa in the coming sea- marquee players. for his friends seemed to be ing become the West Indies leading Johannesburg: South African bat- son, has again been attached to the Wahab Riaz (Cape Town Blitz), his primary concern and the scorer in one-dayers in the second ting star AB de Villiers and World Tshwane Spartans in Centurion fol- Alex Hales (Durban Heat), David positioning of his hat seemed game at the weekend. Cup winner Jason Roy were yesterday lowing his spell there last year. Willey (Paarl Rocks) and Tom Cur- to be the secondary one,” the On Wednesday, he hit fi ve sixes and named among the ‘marquee’ players England’s dynamic opening bats- ran (Tshwane Spartans) complete the off icial said. eight fours as he and fellow opener for the second edition of South Afri- man Roy will play for the Nelson line-up of overseas stars.

Thursday, August 15, 2019 GULF TIMES CRICKET

ASHES/ LORD’S TEST Archer gets cap as rain washes out fi rst day’s play AFP GMT), the square and pitch remained fi rmed after opening day was washed London fully covered. out. Further rain then meant hopes of Fast bowler Hazlewood has seen any play before lunch soon disap- off competition from left-arm quick ofra Archer received his England peared as well. Now offi cials will hope Mitchell Starc, who was also included Test cap but was still to make his the weather relents suffi ciently for the in a 12-man squad after paceman James debut as rain saw the fi rst day of match to begin at the scheduled 1000 Pattinson was omitted as part of a rota- yesterday’s second Ashes match GMT start of the second day. tion policy after featuring in Australia’s againstJ Australia abandoned without a Ashes-holders Australia lead the 251-run win in the fi rst Test at Edgbas- ball bowled at a soaking wet Lord’s. fi ve-match series 1-0 after their 251- ton last week. Chris Jordan, a Sussex teammate, run win in the fi rst Test at Edgbaston “He’s got an outstanding record,” presented Archer with the cap in Eng- last week. said Langer of the 28-year-old, whose land’s pre-match huddle ahead of a re- It is 18 years since Australia last won 44 Tests have yielded 164 wickets at an vised toss at 3:00pm local time (1400 an Ashes series in England. In 17 of the average of 27.14 but who was sidelined GMT) - only for further rain to delay last 19 Ashes campaigns, the team that with a stress fracture earlier this year. the start once again. has led 1-0 has won the series. “He’s built up over the past few With rain still lashing an increas- The exceptions were in 1997 when months. He missed out on the World ingly gloomy ‘home of cricket’, umpires Australia lost at Edgbaston, but won Cup because we felt he hadn’t played Aleem Dar and Chris Gaff aney fi nally the six-match series 3-2 and 2005 much Cricket.” abandoned play for the day after tea at when England lost at Lord’s but won Both Hazlewood and World Cup 4:19pm local time (1519 GMT) the fi ve-Test series 2-1. spearhead Starc were left out at Edg- Jordan may only have made eight World Cup-winner Archer is set to baston, with Langer having previously Test appearances but he has been play after James Anderson, England’s made it clear he would rotate his six something of a ‘cricket brother’ for fel- all-time leading wicket-taker, was quicks during a series where fi ve Tests low Barbados-born county colleague ruled out with a calf injury that meant are crammed into just six weeks. Archer. he bowled just four overs at Edgbaston. Teams are not obliged to name their When the match should have been Australia’s Josh Hazlewood will play sides until the toss, yet to happen in England’s Chris Woakes (left), Stuart Broad and Jofra Archer (right) at the Lord’s balcony in London as opening day’s play of getting underway at 11:00am (1000 in the Test, coach Justin Langer con- this match, takes place. the second Test was washed out yesterday. (Reuters)

FIRST TEST SPOTLIGHT CSA says Steyn not ‘medically ready’ to Taylor rescues NZ be part of India series

IANS fore the tour to prove that they Johannesburg are fully fi t,” Van Zyl said. Steyn took to Twitter to show his frustration and while ith South Af- replying to a tweet, he said that aft er Dananjaya rica pacer Dale the CSA selectors may have Steyn making missed his number despite the his displeasure pacer making himself available Wknown at being left out from for selection. the T20I squad for the India “I did… Obviously lost my series, Cricket South Africa number in the reshuffl ing (CSA) have issued a statement of the coaching staff ,” the wherein they have mentioned 36-year-old wrote. fi ve-wicket haul that Steyn was not medically When a fan said: “The new fi t as per the report they had selectors are obviously saving ‘I used to send videos to him to get more feedback and really happy with my action now’ and that was the reason for you for the ‘big’ games. (Who his exclusion from the T20I are the new selectors?)”. AFP squad. The pacer replied: “Apolo- Galle, Sri Lanka “He is not yet medically gies to Virat and a billion peo- ready and our information ple for thinking they not (sic).” makes that very clear,” CSA’s Earlier, announcing his re- oss Taylor hit an unbeaten half- acting director of cricket Cor- tirement from the longest century to keep New Zealand rie van Zyl. format of the game, Steyn had afl oat after Sri Lanka spinner Ak- Van Zyl also added that Ver- said that he fi nds ‘Test Cricket’ ila Dananjaya claimed fi ve wick- non Philander (hamstring) and to be the “best version of the etsR on a rain-hit day one of the fi rst Test Theunis de Bruyn (back) are game”. yesterday. expected to be fi t in time for “Today, I walk away from New Zealand were 203 for fi ve, having the three-Test series against a format of the game I love recovered from 71-3 at lunch, when rain India in October. so much. In my opinion Test stopped play for the day in the fi nal session “Both are on track, but they cricket is the best version of in Galle with Taylor batting on 86. will have to play one match be- this game,” Steyn had said. Dananjaya claimed his fourth fi ve-wick- et haul, bowling with a remodelled action after being reported for a suspect action last year. The mystery spinner took three early wickets including skipper Kane William- son for nought before Taylor put on 100 runs for the fourth wicket with Henry Ni- cholls. Dananjaya, who was overlooked for Tests in New Zealand, Australia and South Africa, trapped Nicholls for 42 to break the century stand and then got BJ Watling for one to make New Zealand slip further. “There’s no drastic change to my action. I needed to change a few things and with the help of spin bowling coach Piyal Wije- tunga, I did the necessary changes,” Dan- anjaya told reporters. “I used to send videos to him to get more feedback and really happy with my action now.”

HIGHEST SCORE Taylor handled pace and spin with aplomb as he registered his 31st Test 50 and had no problems resisting Dananjaya, who mixed up his deliveries to outfox the batsmen. Taylor registered the highest score by a Kiwi batsman in a Test match at Galle, Going for a spin? Cricket club surpassing the 69 by Tim McIntosh. New introduces vegan ball Zealand have struggled at this venue hav- ing lost all three previous Tests. WG Grace and Don Bradman Shacklady, who founded “They were tough at times. The ball cer- may be spinning in their the club 12 years ago and at tainly spun a little earlier than we thought, graves at the news an English 33 is the youngest cricket but we expected it to be turning,” Nicholls cricket club have switched to club chairman in England, is said of the Galle wicket. using a vegan ball from the hoping other clubs in their “If we can get some partnerships fi rst traditional leather one. Berkshire Cricket League will through Mitch and Ross but also through Sri Lankan bowler Akila Dananjaya (centre) celebrates with teammates after dismissing New Zealand captain Kane Williamson (right) Earley Cricket Club in Read- follow their lead. the lower order with the tail - all those during the first day of the opening Test at the Galle International Cricket Stadium in Galle yesterday. (AFP) ing a town 40 miles (64 kilo- The school teacher says there innings are going to be valuable when the metres) west of London had was not much opposition wicket does get tougher to bat on.” Scorecard already introduced a vegan when he proposed switching Earlier, openers Jeet Raval and Tom tea for their players. the tea to a vegan menu two Latham put on 64 runs before Dananjaya SOUTH AFRICA 1st innings That was down to their years ago. struck on a pitch that is already off ering big founder and chairman Gary Ham and beef sandwiches turn. Latham was the fi rst to go after being J. Raval c De Silva b Dananjaya 33 Shacklady who found most have been replaced by the caught behind for 30 as Dananjaya got the T. Latham c Dickwella b Dananjaya 30 cricket club teas consisted of likes of Moroccan tagine, left-handed batsman to poke at a delivery K. Williamson c Karunaratne b ham sandwiches, not much lasagne and meat-free spa- that was turning away. Dananjaya 0 use to him when he became ghetti Bolognese. Williamson fell three balls later when he a vegan. “The teas have been well R. Taylor not out 86 fl icked one straight into the hands of his Now they have gone the full received as our players opposite number Dimuth Karunaratne at H. Nicholls lbw b Dananjaya 42 hog and introduced a vegan understand and support the short mid-wicket. B. Watling lbw b Dananjaya 1 cricket ball - a synthetic reasoning behind the deci- In the last over before lunch, Raval failed animal products-free one sion,” said Shacklady, who set M. Santner not out 8 to pick a googly and was caught at fi rst slip covered in rubber instead of up the club 12 years ago. Extras (nb1, lb2) 2 by Dhananjaya de Silva for 33. leather. “When other teams come to Both Sri Lanka and New Zealand are Total (5 wickets, 68 overs) 203 “It does behave like a leather us, they pile their plates high. playing their fi rst match of the World Test Fall of wickets: 1-64 (Latham), 2-64 cricket ball, but it bounces “And when they eat the food, Championship, which has nine top teams (Williamson), 3-71 (Raval), 4-171 (Ni- more and it’s more diff icult nobody complains. competing for supremacy in the fi ve-day cholls), 5-179 (Watling) to grip,” Shacklady told the “Although you usually get format. Bowlers: Lakmal 10-5-14-0 (1nb), Daily Mail. one middle-aged white man Play was stopped at 3.42pm (1012 GMT) Kumara 10-1-37-0, Dananjaya 22-2- “But we’re enthused by it and who is horrified - it’s fine, he due to rain and half an hour later was called 57-5, De Silva 6-0-20-0, Embuldeniya we’re hopeful of finding a bet- doesn’t have to eat it. But the off with 22 overs lost in the day. Play will New Zealand’s Ross Taylor plays a shot during the first day of the opening Test against Sri 20-1-73-0. ter version.” point is that everyone can.” resume early today. Lanka at the Galle International Cricket Stadium in Galle yesterday. (AFP)