Asian and European qualifiers a challenge for Qatar: Sanchez page 13 TUESday, MARCH 2, 2021

Djokovic equals Federer’s AMIR ATTENDS OPENING DAY’S ACTION AT QATAR TOTAL OPEN world number one record Agencies by temporary changes to the ranking system because of the Novak Djokovic has equalled coronavirus pandemic which Roger Federer’s record of 310 means players can currently weeks ranked as the tennis count tournaments from two world number one, reports years instead of one. .com. However, he is still the The 33-year-old Serbian is in-form player on the men’s guaranteed to break the mark tour, beginning 2021 by win- next week. Djokovic won his ning nine consecutive matches 18th Grand Slam title and his while last year he did not lose ninth Australian Open crown a completed match until the in Melbourne last month. French Open final in October. “After achieving the histor- Djokovic’s fifth spell at ic number one for the longest the top of the rankings began weeks at number one, it’s go- on 3 February last and he has ing to be a relief for me because been number one for all but I’m going to focus all my atten- 32 weeks since Federer hit 310 tion on slams mostly,” he said. weeks in June 2018. His victory in Melbourne His longest stint as num- takes him to two wins behind ber one was 122 weeks be- the joint holders of the men’s tween July 2014 and Novem- Grand Slam record, Federer ber 2016. and Rafael Nadal. Djokovic sits on 12,030 Djokovic has been helped points - more than 2,000 clear of Rafael Nadal, with Daniil Medvedev and Dominic Thi- em the only other players with more than 7,000 points. However, he still trails the women’s number one record holder Steffi Graf who held top spot for 377 weeks, while Martina Navratilova (332) and Serena Williams (319) have His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani attended part of the opening day action of the 19th Qatar Total Open 2021 at the Khalifa International Tennis and also had longer spells at num- Squash Complex on Monday. HH the Amir witnessed the match between Spain’s Garbine Muguruza and Russia’s Veronika Kudermetova. The match was also attended by a number Novak Djokovic. ber one than Djokovic. of their excellencies, guests of the competitions, and tennis fans, amidst precautionary measures taken to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). (QNA) Ostapenko packs off Bertens, Muguruza moves into 2nd round Twice champion Azarenka, former finalist Kerber also move up Agencies Doha

The Qatar Total Open began on Monday with two-time champion Victoria Azarenka and former finalists Jelena Ostapenko, Garbine Mugu- ruza and Angelique Kerber all prevailing in their opening- round matches. Ostapenko, who was the Doha runner-up in her tour- nament debut in 2016, eased past No.5 seed Kiki Bertens 6-0, 6-2. The 2017 Roland Garros champion, Ostapenko put Former finalist Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia waves at the centre court after her win over Kiki Bertens of the Spaniard Garbine Muguruza in action during her opening round match at the Qatar Total Open against on a command performance at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in Doha on Monday. Russian Veronika Kudermetova on Monday. against Bertens, collecting her 21st career win against a Top 20 opponent. Results Tuesday Order of Play Ostapenko, who reached Singles 6-,0 6-3 CENTRE COURT starts at 2:30 PM After suitable rest: L. Hradecka (CZE)/Kr. Pliskova the second WTA singles fi- Q3 - [1] J. Pegula (USA) bt [8] M. Doi (JPN) 6-2, R32 - A. Kontaveit (EST) bt [7] J. Brady (USA) Q. Wang (CHN) vs [Q] J. Pegula (USA) (CZE) vs [4] A. Blinkova (RUS)/G. Dabrowski nal of her career in Doha five 6-2 6-1, 6-2 O. Jabeur (TUN) vs [Q] A. Blinkova (RUS) (CAN) years ago, hit 26 winners to 19 Q3 - [2] L. Siegemund (GER) bt L. Tsurenko R32 - A. Kerber (GER) bt [WC] C. Buyukakcay NB 6:00 PM unforced errors, a sturdy ratio (UKR) 7-6(4), 6-4 (TUR) 6-4, 6-2 M. Keys (USA) vs [6] B. Bencic (SUI) COURT B starts at 2:30 PM Q3 - [6] A. Blinkova (RUS) bt B. Mattek-Sands R32 - [WC] J. Ostapenko (LAT) bt [5] K. Bertens S. Zheng (CHN) vs [LL] M. Doi (JPN) [3] S. Aoyama (JPN)/E. Shibahara (JPN) vs M. for her aggressive style of play. (USA) 6-2, 6-3 (NED) 6-0, 62 Niculescu (ROU)/J. Ostapenko (LAT) Bertens was playing in Q3 - [7] Kr. Pliskova (CZE) bt C. Bucsa (ESP) 6-2, 6-2 Doubles COURT A starts at 2:30 PM A. Guarachi (CHI)/D. Jurak (CRO) vs [2] N. her first match since having R32 - [WC] [8] V. Azarenka (BLR) bt S. R16 - [1] B. Krejcikova (CZE)/K. Siniakova (CZE) E. Rybakina (KAZ) vs [Q] L. Siegemund (GER) Melichar (USA)/D. Schuurs (NED) Achilles surgery at the end of Kuznetsova (RUS) 6-2, 6-3 bt S. Zheng (CHN)/L. Zhu (CHN) 5-7, 6-3, 10-3 [Q] Kr. Pliskova (CZE) vs A. Pavlyuchenkova After suitable rest B. mattek-Sands (USA) / J. Pegula 2020, a gap of five months in R32 - G. Muguruza (ESP) bt V. Kudermetova R16-A. Klepac (SLO)/S. Mirza (IND) bt L. (RUS) (USA) vs E. Rybakina (KAZ)/Y. Shvedova (KAZ) her play. The former World (RUS) 6-2, 7-6(4) Kichenok (UKR)/N. Kichenok (UKR) 6-4, 6-7(5), After suitable rest [WC] L. Siegemund (GER)/E. After suitable rest: K. Bertens (NED)/L. No.4 kept her first-serve per- R32 - M. Sakkari (GRE) bt [WC] M. Sherif (EGY) 10-5. Vesnina (RUS) vs V. Azarenka (BLR)/E. Svitolina Pattinama Kerkhove (NED) vs [WC] C. centage solid but her power- (UKR) Buyukakcay (TUR)/A. Pavlyuchenkova (RUS). ful play resulted in only six winners on the day. in two sets.” to-back titles in Doha in Ostapenko zipped With her win, Muguruza 2012 and 2013, improved her second set was pivotal: Aza- partner Andreja Klepac dug in through the first set and sets up an intriguing second- head-to-head record against renka’s solid returning earned deep to overcame a challenge pulled away in the second Twice winner Victoria Azarenka exults after her opening round win round affair against No.3 seed Kuznetsova to 6-4 with her her a break for 3-2, and she from the Ukrainians Lyud- thanks to some cracking over two-time runner-up Svetlana Kuznetsova on Monday. (Pic: WTA) and defending champion Ary- one-hour and 42-minute vic- fought off five break points in a myla Kichenok and Nadiia forehands for a 5-1 lead. na Sabalenka. tory. It was the first meeting protracted game to hold for 4-2 Kichenok in an absorbing tie. Bertens, though, converted 7-6(4). Muguruza, making her from serving out the match at “I think (Sabalenka is) between the two-time Grand and maintain her advantage. Sania and Klepac won the her first break-point opportu- sixth straight appearance in both 5-4 and 6-5. Muguruza playing great,” Muguruza said. Slam champions since their Azarenka missed three first set 6-4 after being 3-0 nity to thwart Ostapenko’s first the Doha main draw, reached stayed steely in the tiebreak, “Last year and this year I showdown in the 2016 Miami match points when serving down at the start. In the sec- chance to serve out the match. the final in 2018. finding strong drive volleys saw she’s winning titles and Open final, won by Azarenka. for the match at 6-2, 5-2, but ond it was 2-3 for them before But Ostapenko took control The Spaniard has been de- when it counted to push her playing good tennis. I’m ex- Azarenka converted three garnered the victory in the the Ukrainians swung it their in the next game, slamming a feated by only Top 30 players through to the second round. cited to face these top players.” of her four break points in the next game, converting her way winning in the tie break crosscourt backhand winner thus far in 2021. The two-time “Veronika was a very tough In the nightcap match, opening frame, which, at 44 sixth match point to break for 6-7 (5) and therby taking the to complete the match in just major champion kept that opponent,” Muguruza said in No.8 seed Azarenka ousted minutes, was lengthier than the win. match into the final set. 53 minutes. streak going with a 1-hour, her post-match press confer- two-time runner-up Svetlana the scoreline suggests. Kuznet- Sania and Klepac, howev- Former World No.1 Mu- 45-minute win against World ence. “Just happy with this Kuznetsova, 6-2, 6-3, to book sova nearly matched Azarenka Sania/Klepac bounce er, continued to fight keeping guruza also came up with No. 34 Kudermetova. win. We played a year ago, her spot in the second round in winners in the opener, but back to win up the pressure which yielded a straight-sets win, ousting In the second set, Kuder- and I remember it was a tough in Qatar. had five more unforced errors. In the doubles action, India’s results as they clinched the de- Veronika Kudermetova, 6-2, metova prevented Muguruza match. Happy to have closed it Azarenka, who won back- A two-game stretch in the Sania Mizra and her Slovakian cider 10-5. Sports Tuesday, March 2, 2021 13 Al Duhail ready to face Al Shamal in Amir Cup quarter-finals, says coach

Al Rayyan to meet Al Kharaitiyat

Tribune News Network Doha

Qatar Cup losing finalistsA l Duhail are ready for Al Shamal in their Amir Cup quarter-final clash with coach Sabri Lam- ouchi saying his team expects a ”difficult match”. The two sides will face-off at the Suheim Bin Hamad Sta- dium on Tuesday at 4.45pm. “The match is going to be difficult. We are looking for the best result because the loss in football is there, and you have to overcome the stumbling blocks. We must win against Al Shamal to continue in this prestigious competition,” Lamouchi said during the pre- match conference on Monday. “I am a coach, and I am not a wizard, and I cannot solve all the problems in this short period of time (of four months with the team). Bassam Al Rawi of Al Duhail during a training session ahead of the Amir Cup quarter-final against Al Shamal. Al Shamal players warm up ahead of a training session on Monday. Since my arrival, we lost only four matches and played in a competing for titles. playing in the Amir Cup is a played, and everything is pos- great way until the last match “We did not reach the great honour,” Marghani Al sible,” he added. against Al Sadd (last week). quarterfinals by chance.T he Zein said on Monday. Laurent Blanc, coach of We lost, but we were the - Amir Cup feature is surprising The two sides will clash at Al Rayyan, also exuded confi- ter side,” he said. in most matches, especially 7.15pm at the Abdullah Bin dence, saying: “We are ready. “We must have our full op- in the advanced stages of the Khalifa Stadium. The preparations were ade- portunity to change the team’s event. We know all the teams “We won over Al Wakrah quate, and Al Rayyan won over mentality and reach the de- play to win, we will try to go in the previous round, and Al Kharaitiyat in the previous sired results. I hope we do not toe to toe with them without now we will face Al Rayyan, match. Frankly speaking, I face surprises in Amir Cup,” any inferiority complex.” who we lost against in the last am not satisfied with what the Lamouchi stressed. game of the league. Al Rayyan players displayed during the Meanwhile, Hisham Al Rayyan capable of is a great team and plays for ti- game despite the victory. Ghazwani, coach of Al Sha- reaching final tles, but we will play to win and “Yes, Al Rayyan has the mal, said: “My team is ready Marghani Al Zein, assistant provide a better level than Al ability to reach the final, and for our match against Al coach of Al Kharaitiyat, said Kharaitiyat presented in front this is what motivates us. We Duhail. We are honoured his team is honoured to face of Al Rayyan in the league. are working every week to to play the second match in Al Rayyan in their Amir Cup “There is nothing certain improve performance, and I this prestigious tournament. quarter-final clash. in football. Yes, Al Rayyan is spoke with all the players and We know our task is not easy “It will be a difficult in the best condition, but there asked them to give it all they’ve against a strong team that is match, but first, I must say Al Kharaitiyat’s Asst Coach Marghani Al Zein speaks to media during the pre-match conference on Monday. is still a football match to b,e got” Blanc said. Sabalenka ready for a ‘fight’ against Muguruza

Tribune News Network big difference compared to last year,” game and you’re there, you’re fighting, Doha she said. you just have to take this opportunity,” Having made the 4th round at the she explained. Defending champion here and Australian Open, Sabalenka, who had She also said that she is always now world reanked 8th, Belorusian won two Grand Slam doubles titles, motivated but knows she can always Aryna Sabalenka was all smiles on is serious of her focus on her singles improve. “There is technically I need Monday as she spoke ahead of her game. “I still want to put more focus on to improve a lot. Like my technique, opening match at the Qatar Total singles, and that’s why we make a deci- my movement, my shots, like, varia- Open 2021 against Spaniard Garbine sion with Elise (Mertens) to do not play tion of the shot, there is still a lot of Muguruza, the 2018 finalist in Doha. doubles in the Grand Slams. things to improve. Qatar national football team’s Spanish coach Felix Sanchez. In will be a tough start to the 22-year- “We’re still going to play Dubai, “But if I compare myself to (when I old Sabalenka’s campaign on Tuesday Miami, like big events, but yeah, in was) 15, yeah, I would say I improved for sure, meeting the much experienced the Grand Slams we’re gonna focus a lot and I changed a lot. But there are Participation in Asian, Euro Muguruza in the second round. on singles.” still a lot of things to improve, which is But Sabalenka waived off the wor- Sabalenka lost to Serena Williams good,” she said. qualifiers a new challenge ries, saying, “I’ve come here for some in Melbourne when at one stage she On Tuesday she will need to bring great matches, for the great fight. Yeah, seemed to hold the advantage. “I felt out a lot of her skills and motivation I’m defending champion but still I feel like I missed my opportunity because both to conquer a challenging Mugu- for Qatar players: Sanchez there is nothing to lose. I’ll just go for I feel like if you are coming back from ruza as a defending champion. it and do everything I can. So it’s not a Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus. 1-4 and you’re kind of feeling your Great contest awaits! QNA between matches against In- Doha dia and Oman and those in the Copa America. This is why we The first Qatari football team apologized for not being able coach Felix Sanchez has termed to participate in it, he said, the national team’s participa- hoping that they will attend in Qatar Airways and Qatar Duty Free are tion in the European qualifiers the future, especially as it is a as positive in light of the pres- distinguished tournament and ence of large and strong teams. is considered the best prepara- It is a new challenge await- tion for the upcoming events. proud Qatar Total Open 2021 sponsors ing the team as they will play He pointed out that the two games against India and players were looking forward Tribune News Network has sponsored the Qatar To- Oman in the joint Asian quali- to participating in the Gold- Doha tal Open Tennis Tournament fiers for the Asian Cup and the en Cup, which brings strong since 2012 and we are proud FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, teams such as Portugal and Qatar Airways and Qatar to once again be a key partner he said. Serbia in addition to Luxem- Duty Free (QDF) are proud to to one of the world-renowned Speaking during an open bourg, Azerbaijan and Ireland. sponsor the Qatar Total Open annual sporting events taking media day organized by Qatar He added that he constantly 2021 Tennis Tournament at place in Doha.” Football Association on Mon- follow the domestic league the Khalifa International Ten- “Sports has the power to day, Sanchez said that they matches and there are some nis and Squash Complex in connect people together, phys- were waiting for the dates of players who have presented Doha. The tournament began ically and virtually. Despite the the two remaining matches good levels and demonstrated on Monday and runs through challenges faced by the travel- to be determined by the Asian their ability to represent the to Saturday (March 6). retail industry across the past Football Confederation. team and provide an addi- Joining the list of of wom- year, due to the COVID-19 After that they will par- tion. He pointed out that they en’s tennis stars competing outbreak, it was more impor- ticipate in the Gold Cup cham- have a list of 40 players and this year is Ons Jabeur, the Tu- tant than ever for Qatar Duty pionship, he said, adding in the end the number will nisian superstar and first Arab Free to extend our partnership all these arrangements and be reduced, and there is the woman to reach the quarter- to the 2021 tournament. changes that took place in the possibility of some new play- finals of a Grand Slam tourna- “We are thrilled to be current period are basically ers joining the list, indicating ment. The tournament is also part of this unforgettable and related to the global health that the preparatory period being graced by the likes of exciting experience and to situation in order to determine is short, but the most impor- two-time champion and World welcome some of the world’s our future program. tant thing is to ensure that the Number 14 Victoria Azarenka, leading female tennis players The coach of the Qatari na- group that will participate is 2017 winner and World Num- to Qatar. We wish them the tional team gave the current ready to honor Qatari football. ber 6 Karolina Pliskova, along best of luck.” circumstances of the corona- Sanchez said the team will with the tournament’s number The WTA 500 tennis tournament is being held from March 1 to 6 at the Khalifa International Complex. The tournament features virus (COVID-19) pandemic be selected on March 13, and the 1 seed and World Number 5 32 players and carries a total which affected the general sit- list will include between 25 and Elina Svitolina. Vice-President Marketing and with anticipation to welcome of making the nation a hub for prize purse of $565,530. uation in addition to the trans- 30 players for matches against In total, six of the top Corporate Communications, these world-class players to sports across the region and Qatar Airways is also fer of the Asian qualifying Azerbaijan, Luxembourg and Women’s Tennis Association Salam Al Shawa, said: “Ten- Doha. Women’s tennis is an worldwide.” proud to sponsor and support matches from March to June Ireland in the European quali- (WTA) superstars are vying nis is one of the cornerstones integral part of Qatar Airways’ Qatar Duty Free Vice Pres- top-level athletes such as Ons as the reason for non-partic- fiers for World Cup 2022. for glory in Doha. of the annual Qatari sports extensive sports sponsorship ident Operations, Thabet Mu- Jabeur, the highest ranked ipation in the Copa America The matches will be held at Qatar Airways Senior calendar, and we look forward portfolio with the stated aim sleh, said: “Qatar Duty Free Arab player in WTA history. due to the lack of a time lag the end of next month. 14 Tuesday, March 2, 2021 Sports 2021 FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Bajas 3rd Round Kohli becomes first cricketer to hit 100 mn followers on Instagram

ANI rently gearing up for the fourth New Delhi and final Test against England which gets underway on Thurs- India skipper Virat Kohli has day. The hosts are leaving no added another feather to his il- stone unturned to prepare for lustrious cap as he became the the upcoming fixture at the Nar- first cricketer to hit 100million endra Modi Stadium. followers on photo and video The Board of Control for sharing social networking plat- Cricket in India (BCCI) on Mon- form Instagram on Monday. day shared a video on Twitter to The Indian skipper has give a glimpse of players sweat- joined Juventus striker Cris- ing it out in the nets. In the vid- tiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Ar- eo, Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane gentine forward Lionel Messi, can be seen batting in the nets Hollywood actor and former while Rohit Sharm can be seen pro-wrestler Dwayne ‘The having a chat with head coach Rock’ Johnson, American sing- Ravi Shastri. Top Saudi Arabian rally driver Yazeed Al Rajhi (left) and Saleh Alabdelali are among the entries for this weekend’s third round through the deserts of Saudi Arabia. er-songwriter Beyonce, and Ar- The players also worked on iana Grande in the 100 million their fielding skills, making sure club. Kohli is also the fourth the team is well-prepared in most followed sportsperson on all the departments when they Instagram. Ronaldo tops the face the English side in the final Saudi’s Yazeed Al Rajhi and list (sportsperson) with 266 game of the series. million followers while Messi is In the ongoing series, Rohit, second on the list with 187 mil- Axar Patel, and Ravichandran lion followers on the Facebook- Ashwin have been the stand- owned platform. out performers and now in Seaidan top international Kohli, who holds the top the fourth Test, skipper Kohli spot in ICC’s ODI batting would look to come to the party rankings, made his debut in and end his century-drought. the format in August 2008. Kohli had last scored a cen- The Indian skipper has scored tury way back in 2019 in a day- field for Sharqiyah Baja 12,040 runs in 251 ODIs at an night Test against Bangladesh average of 59.31. at the Eden Gardens. Kohli has represented India If India manage to win or Tribune News Network Dubai International Baja, Al The international field will will fight for honours in the Saeed Al Mouri. in 90 Tests, scoring 7,490 runs draw the final Test against Eng- DAMMAM (SAUDI ARABIA) Rajhi and Ulster co-driver Mi- FIA T4 section, with seven The international field will with the highest of 254*. In land, then the side will qualify chael Orr will drive one of two also be joined by competi- Can-Am Mavericks hoping to also be joined by competi- T20I cricket, he has played 85 for the finals of the World Test Top Saudi Arabian rally driv- Toyota Hilux four-wheel drive tors taking part in a make the start line. tors taking part in a National matches, piling 2,928 runs at a Championship (WTC) and the ers Yazeed Al Rajhi and Yasir vehicles entered by Overdrive National Rally and scoring Heading the list is FIA T4 Rally and scoring points for strike rate of 138.43. side would take on New Zea- Seaidan head the international Racing. The second car will points for the opening championship leader Claude the opening round of the 2021 The Indian skipper is cur- land in the summit clash. FIA entry announced by the be in the hands of Dutchman round of the 2021 Saudi Fournier. The Frenchman Saudi Toyota Desert Rally Saudi Automobile and Motor- Erik van Loon and his French Toyota Desert Rally drives the first of three South Championship. There is also a cycle Federation (SAMF) for co-driver Sebastien Delaunay. Championship. There is Racing Can-Ams alongside separate section for motorcy- Virat Kohli this weekend’s third round of Seaidan teams up with Kuwait’s Meshari Al Thefiri cle and quad entrants. the 2021 FIA World Cup for Russian navigator Alexey also a separate section for and Dubai-based Thomas Bell. Support for the event run- Cross-Country Bajas. Kuzmich to drive a solitary X- motorcycle and quads. Bell will be co-driven by Span- ning under the supervision of Subject to pre-event scru- raid-built Mini John Cooper ish former enduro rider and HRH Khalid bin Sultan tineering, 18 teams and com- Works Rally, while the fourth powerful Hummer against the China Grand Rally-winning Al Abdullah Al Faisal, SAMF petitors from 13 nations will of the FIA-seeded drivers at likes of Essa Al Dossary, Khalid biker Armand Monleon. President and Chairman of the tackle the three-day event, the top of the entry list is the Al Feraihi, Mohammed Al Tu- Local driver Saleh Al Saif Organising Committee, comes which roars into life with a experienced Czech driver Mi- waijri, Ibrahim Ben Salman, will be hoping to bounce back from official partner Abdul Latif timed 10km super special roslav Zapletal with his self- Yousef Al Suwaidi and Saudi from a disappointing outing Jameel Toyota and diamond stage on Thursday (March built Ford F-150. female racer Dania Akeel. She in Dubai to challenge for T4 sponsors MBC Group and Al 4th) and continues with two Saudi drivers dominate teams up with French co-driv- honours, where he faces ad- Arabiya outdoor advertising. selective sections through the the middle reaches of the en- er Laurent Lichtleuchter in a ditional competition from fel- Modon, the Saudi Author- deserts of the Eastern Prov- try with last year’s Hail Inter- Can-Am Maverick X3 entered low Saudi drivers, Ahmed Al ity for Industrial Cities and ince on Friday and Saturday. national Rally winner Saleh in the FIA T3 category. Shegawi, Hamad Al Harbi and Technology Zones, is also pro- Fresh from winning the Al-Abdelali wheeling out his The remainder of the field motor sporting all-rounder viding logistical support.

‘Cricket fan’ Leach wants Test matches to last longer than two days Jeetan Patel expecting visitors to ‘punch back ANI mitted that the hosts outplayed bowler, Axar was very good on mer cricketers but Leach credit- pretty hard’ in fourth Test Ahmedabad England on Ahmedabad wicket. that wicket. All the talk has been ed India spinners for outplaying “I think that is right. One in the media, in the dressing the visiting side. ANI England in the pink-ball Test us to punch back pretty hard,” Amid the debates over the na- thing I will say as a cricket fan room, we just talk about getting “I do not have too much Ahmedabad at the Narendra Modi Stadium Patel said during a virtual ture of the pitch that was pre- if I was watching a Test match, I better,” he added. to say about the pitch, we got on Thursday to go 2-1 up in press conference on Monday. pared for the pink-ball Test, would want it to go longer than Though the hosts registered outplayed in those conditions Jeetan Patel, who has been the four-match series. “They The pink-ball Test saw England spinner Jack Leach as- two days, that is my only kind a comprehensive ten-wicket and for me, I am always look- appointed as England’s per- (Axar and Ashwin) have been both India and England bats- serted that he would have liked of viewing being a cricket fan.... win, the match saw both India ing to learn. That’s the great manent Elite Spin Bowling fantastic in the second and men failing to shine. But crit- the third Test against India to Test match should go on longer and England batsmen failing thing about our group, we Coach, said he is expect- third Test, and it is now for us ics have looked to blame the go longer than two days. than two days, whether that is to shine and getting out to balls are all in this mindset and we ing the team to “punch back to combat that in the fourth pitch for the failure of the bats- The third Test match got to the pitch or skill, for me, I that did not turn and skidded want to learn from what has pretty hard” in the fourth Test Test. The conversation today men. After the match, Rohit over within two days after the am fully concentrating how can through from the spinners. been a couple of hard games against India. was not to go away from being Sharma had clarifiedthat he visitors crumbled in front of the I best do on every wicket I play England’s defeat in the and put in a good perfor- Riding on brilliant spells positive and look to score. One did not think the pitch had any India spin duo of Ravichandran on,” said Leach in a virtual press pink-ball Test inside two days mance so yeah, it was tough, of spin bowling from Axar Pa- thing that the England side demons. Even India skipper Ashwin and Axar Patel. Leach conference on Monday. might have raised questions on even being a spinner on that tel and Ravichandran Ashwin, has done well recently is face Virat Kohli was vocal about said a Test match should last “They outbowled us on that the quality of the pitch at the wicket comes with tough mo- India had registered a com- the adversity and punched the dreadful batting display longer than two days but ad- wicket, Ashwin is a world-class Narendra Modi Stadium by for- ments,” said Leach. prehensive 10-wicket win over against it. 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Tiger Woods has thanked fellow golfers and fans for their support following his re- cent serious car accident. “It is hard to explain how touching today was when I turned on the TV and saw all the red shirts. To every golfer and every fan, you are truly helping me get through this tough time,” Woods tweeted Tiger Woods is recuperating after on Sunday. a serious accident. At golf tournaments on Sunday, numerous players investigators were not pursu- wore a red shirt and black ing reckless driving charges, trousers - the outfit that Villanueva added. Woods always chooses for the The Los Angeles County last day of a competition. Sheriff’s Department (LASD) According to Woods’ man- said Woods was “very fortu- agement and the Los Angeles nate” to survive, although a County Sheriff’s Department, long surgical procedure was the golf pro was involved in a required on his lower right leg single-car accident. His car sus- and ankle. tained major damage while he In a statement released on suffered multiple leg injuries. Friday, Woods’ team said the He had multiple open American great underwent fractures to his lower right leg further procedures after being and during surgery had a rod moved to a different hospital. placed in his tibia and screws “Tiger has moved to Ce- Omar Al Mannai, Event Director, Commercial Bank CHI AL Shaqab Presented by Longines and Organizing Committee Member, with CHI Al Shaqab Grand Prix winner Christian Ahl- and pins in his ankle. dars-Sinai Medical Center and mann of Germany, runner-up Oliver Robert of France, and officials at Al Shaqab on Saturday. Authorities have said received follow-up procedures Woods was the only person on his injuries this morning. championship and for mak- in the vehicle and conscious The procedures were success- Al Shaqab to ing the event safe secure with when first responders arrived ful, and he is now recovering the Ministry of Public Health at the scene early on Tuesday and in good spirits,” the state- host LGCT from protocols against the spread morning. ment said. of COVID-19 which added to No charges are being pur- “Tiger and his family want Thursday the safety, assurance and con- sued against Tiger Woods after to thank you all for the won- fidence of all. the crash, which Los Angeles derful support and messages Tribune News Network The media also thanked County Sheriff Alex Villanueva they have received over the Doha and appreciated the team of said was an accident. past few days. We will not the Omar Al Mannai for their There was no evidence of have any further updates at The champions of the eighth efforts throughout the dura- impairment through medica- this time. Thank you for your edition of the just concluded tion of the event ensuring tion, alcohol or narcotics and continued privacy.” CHI Al Shaqab addressed the comfort and professionalism. world media along with Omar The hard work at Al Al Mannai, Event Director, Shaqab continues with the Commercial Bank CHI AL back-to-back staging of Lon- Shaqab Presented by Longines gines Global Champions Tour Quick read and Organizing Committee (LGCT) from March 1 to 6. On Rashid Khan likely to miss Test due to injury Member, at Al Shaqab and Wednesday, with the veteri- praised the resounding suc- Para dressage winners after being honoured with their prizes at the indoor Longines Arena of Al Shaqab. nary checks of all participating Abu Dhabi: Due to a finger injury, Afghanistan star spinner Rashid cess of CHI Al Shaqab. horses will be held. Khan is likely to miss the first Test against Zimbabwe that will kick- From dressage, para dres- Organizing Committee of the Organizing Committee, Com- people with special needs who Longines Global Cham- start on Tuesday. According to a report in ESPNcricinfo, Rashid’s sage to showjumping and Lon- championship headed by His mercial Bank CHI AL Shaqab participated in para dressage. pions Tour’s opening leg in minor fracture is yet to heal and the spinner might miss the first Test. gines Hathab events were wit- Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Presented by Longines, for his The international par- Doha will provide riders from Although there is no official update, last eekw Afghanistan Cricket nessed at the three-day event. Hamad Al Thani, President of directives and continuous fol- ticipants thanked Al Shaqab all around the world a chance Board (ACB) had said that the final call on his inclusion in the first The organisers thanked the the Qatar Olympic Commit- low-up to ensure the success of and the Al Shaqab family for to prepare for the forthcoming test will be taken after a reassessment of his injury on Sunday. (ANI) efforts made by the Supreme tee, and Chairman, Supreme the event with attentive care for their efforts throughout the Tokyo Olympics. QSA gears up to host FINA/CNSG Marathon Swim World Series 2021 at Katara Beach Tribune News Network Doha

The Qatar Swimming Asso- ciation (QSA) will host long- distance swimmers compet- ing over 10km course in the FINA/CNSG Marathon Swim World Series 2021 Doha at the stunning Katara Beach on March 13. A total of 99 swimmers – 66 male and 33 female ath- letes – along with 65 team officials from 27 countries will participate in the season- opening meet. France will be sending the biggest contingent to the Qatari capital, including 20 swimmers and 11 officials. Italy will have 13 athletes in both the races along with five officials. QSA under the guidance of Ministry of Public Health will organise the event by follow- ing strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure health and safety of athletes, officials and all other stakeholders. The athletes will remain in bio-secure zones throughout the event. The FINA Marathon Swim World Series races, which Doha hosted for the first time A total of 99 athletes from 27 countries have confirmed for the season-opening meet to be held at Katara Beach on March 13; in 2018, is adding valuable ex- QSA will organise the event with strict COVID-19 protocols perience and expertise as QSA prepares to organize the Doha 2023 FINA World Champion- ships in 2023.” ID-19. We will provide a safe We are confident of organising races. pion, and Fares Zitouni (FRA) will also return to Doha – one ships. “Federations from all over environment for all those in- it successfully in these difficult Olympic bronze medalist will be the other main con- of her favourite stops – as she Khaleel Al Jabir, President the world have reaffirmed volved in the competition. times. Marc-Antoine Olivier (FRA), tenders in the men’s race. also took second position here of QSA, said: “We are making their confidence in QSA’s or- The water temperatures and “QSA’s arrangements for who won in Doha last year, The women’s field is even in 2018. best preparations for the com- ganization of major competi- conditions are expected to be hosting the event are on track. will defend his men’s title more star-studded with open Other leading athletes peting athletes and officials tions by confirming their big perfect for athletes and we are Doha will produce another against a strong line-up also water marathon maestro Ana confirmed for women’s race like we have done over the contingents for the first meet looking forward to exciting exciting action of open water including Kristof Rasovs- Marcela Cunha (BRA), re- include Rio Olympics silver years despite facing unprec- of FINA/CNSG Marathon races,” Al Jabir added. swimming in the presence zky (HUN) – gold medalist at turning to Doha, where she medalist Rachele Bruni (ITA), edented challenges due to the Swim World Series 2021,” he QSA Secretary-General of champion long-distance 2019 World Aquatics Champi- emerged victorious in 2019. Arianna Bridi (ITA) – 25km ongoing pandemic. This event said. Talal Mohammed Al Darwish, swimmers,” he added onships (5km). Last year, Cunha finished winner at the 2018 European will be another step for the “The event will be staged said, “We are honoured to The field confirmed for the Gregorio Paltrinieri (ITA), second behind Leonie Beck Aquatics Championships – QSA towards staging success- with strict measures in place start the FINA/CNSG Mara- first meet includes many top Olympic and World long (GER), who clinched her and Lara Grangeon de Villele ful FINA World Champion- to combat the spread of COV- thon Swim World Series again. ranked athletes for both the course and short course cham- maiden title in the series. Beck (FRA).