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Saturday, June 22, 2019 FOOTBALL Shawwal 19, 1440 AH Qatar and Argentina GULF TIMES set for crucial Copa America match SPORT Page 2

FOOTBALL World Cup winner Cafu unveiled as SC Ambassador ‘I have witnessed the SC’s commitment to ensuring Qatar’s World Cup looks beyond the 28 days of football to inspire’

By Sports Reporter timate honour – winning the Education through sport is a Doha World Cup – it has always been subject close to Cafu’s heart. He my passion. has played an active role in help- “During my time as a player – ing to deliver educational and razil’s legendary 2002 and since then in retirement – I vocational courses to underpriv- FIFA World Cup win- have also witnessed the game’s ileged children in Jardim Irene, ning captain Cafu has unique power to educate, inspire the area of São Paulo in which he offi cially joined Qatar’s and provide outlets for under- grew up. Bjourney on the road to 2022 after privileged people, no matter “There are a great deal of par- being unveiled as an SC Ambas- where you are from in the world.” allels between this and the work sador. He continued: “Through its that the SC is doing, through Established by the Supreme legacy programmes, such as the Josoor and also other pro- Committee for Delivery & Legacy Josoor Institute, Generation grammes such as Generation (SC) – the organisation respon- Amazing and Challenge 22, I have Amazing. So to combine this sible for delivering tournament witnessed the SC’s commit- kind of work with the next World infrastructure for the FIFA World ment to ensuring Qatar’s World Cup in Qatar, and the work I have Cup 2022 – the ambassador pro- Cup looks beyond the 28 days of done in the past, it really does feel gramme works alongside some football to inspire and help peo- a perfect fi t for me.” of the game’s most iconic stars ple far away and for generations Adding his own words of wel- to help deliver and promote the to come. It is for these reasons come, al-Thawadi added: “We numerous legacy programmes that I did not hesitate to join the are delighted to welcome Cafu and infrastructure projects asso- organisation and help it continue to our team. His legendary sta- ciated with the Arab world’s fi rst to deliver its work.” tus and the legacy he leaves be- FIFA World Cup. Although his remit will cover hind from his on-fi eld activities One of the game’s most re- a wide range of SC programmes, are clear for all to see. But what spected and iconic stars, in 2002 projects and initiatives, Cafu will is equally impressive to us is the Cafu joined an elite group of just work closely with the Josoor In- work, commitment and dedica- fi ve men to have captained Brazil stitute to help deliver its ground- tion he has shown towards us- to FIFA World Cup glory when he breaking academic and voca- ing his profi le to deliver genuine lifted the famous trophy in Japan tional courses and qualifi cations hope and opportunity to the un- following his nation’s 2-0 victory to the next generation of sports derprivileged. over Germany. With 148 interna- and events professionals. “That he joins us with a com- tional appearances, he is also the Josoor Institute was launched mitment to helping ensure that most capped player in Brazil’s il- Brazil’s World Cup winner Cafu (left) with Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy Secretary-General HE Hassan al-Thawadi. in December 2013 with the pur- the next generation receives the lustrious football history. pose of building the capabilities opportunities and avenues to suc- At a special unveiling ceremo- Samuel Eto’o and Mohamed Saa- our and a privilege to offi cially may say even from birth. would be my destiny to have a of the sports and events indus- ceed – whether it be on or off the ny in his home city of São Paulo, don al-Kuwari as an offi cial SC become part of the team helping “As many know, I was born lifelong affi liation with the sport. tries in Qatar and the Mena re- pitch – makes him a perfect fi t for hosted by SC Secretary-General, Ambassador. to deliver the World Cup in Qa- during the famous 1970 World From dreams of playing as a small gion through education, training, our organisation. I look forward to HE Hassan al-Thawadi, Cafu of- Refl ecting on the announce- tar. The World Cup has played a Cup game between Brazil and child, to getting the chance to professional certifi cation, con- working alongside him up to and fi cially joined Xavi Hernández, ment, Cafu said: “It is an hon- dominant role in my life, some England, so you could say it represent my nation, to the ul- sultancy and research. beyond Qatar 2022.”

HORSE RACING SPOTLIGHT Al Shaqab’s Meethag leads a Baghdad wins at second Qatari one-two in Chantilly Gr2 straight Royal Ascot

QREC Racing manager Abdulla Rashid al-Kubaisi (right) with the winners of the Qatar Coupe de France des Chevaux Arabes (Group 2 PA) after Meethag won the race at Chantilly yesterday. (JDG) Duke of Edinburgh Stakes winners pose during the prize distribution ceremony after Baghdad won at Royal Ascot. PICTURES: Zuzanna Lupa Agencies Moroccan raider, Salma Nour a neat ability to quicken. She is Agencies pulled out all the stops to hold Chantilly, France Grine, was a further length back among the best three-year-old Ascot, England off Frankie Dettori-ridden Ben in third. fi llies in the yard,” Jerome Ca- Vrackie, owned by Princess Haya QREC Racing manager Ab- bre, the winning rider, said of of Jordan and trained by John Qatari one-two was dulla Rashid al-Kubaisi was the Thomas Fourcy runner. ohamed bin Hamad Gosden, by a short head. Sheikh the order of the day present at the QREC-spon- Meethag is a daughter of Da- bin Khalifa al-Atti- Mohamed Obaid al-Maktoum’s in the Qatar Rac- sored event and presented the hor de Brugere and Al Nach- yah’s Baghdad won Fujaira Prince, ridden by Andrea ing and Equestrian trophies to the winners. miya. The latter was a winner at the Duke of Edin- Atzeni for trainer Roger Varian, ClubA (QREC)-sponsored Qatar It was Meethag’s second ca- Group 1 PA level in the colours Mburgh Stakes at Royal Ascot yes- completed the frame fi nishing Coupe de France des Chevaux reer start, and she only reiterat- of HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad terday, adding to his victory in one and a half lengths further Arabes (Group 2 PA) at Chant- ed the promise she made on her al-Thani. the King George V Stakes at the behind. illy yesterday. victorious debut in Toulouse The QREC’s sponsorship of same meeting last year. Baghdad was injured after the The mile long race saw a tight earlier this month. the race is part of its strategy The four-year-old bay colt Ascot meeting last year and had a fi nish with Al Shaqab Racing’s “She showed her business to have a strong presence and battled bravely to win the 2400m nine-month break. However, he Meethag denying His Highness like and professional qualities to facilitate the participation class 2 race in a thrilling fi nish. has returned even stronger this Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa al- on her debut and confi rmed of Qatari-owned horses in Eu- Ridden by Ryan Moore, the year. The win was Baghdad’s fi fth Ryan Moore rides Baghdad to Duke of Edinburgh Stakes victory at Thani’s Al Hazm by a nose at those impressions today. She is rope, and the world’s top race- Mark Johnston-saddled Baghdad from 10 starts. Royal Ascot yesterday. the line. a straight forward ride – with courses and racing events. Gulf Times 2 Saturday, June 22, 2019 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT Qatar and Argentina set for crucial Copa America match Against Argentina, Qatar will fancy their chances, with the Lionel Messi-led team struggling to make an impact so far

Almoez Ali (L) and other members of the Qatar team pictured on arrival in Porto Alegre, Brazil, ahead of their match against Argentina tomorrow.

Agencies lombia. We deserved a draw. We had to three major tournament fi nals in as Porto Alegre, Brazil a lot of chances to score while the many years – all lost – from 2014-16. Colombians played one of their best Argentina had been second best in matches. When they scored, we didn’t the fi rst half of their 2-0 defeat by Co- head of the Copa America, not have time to stage a comeback. These lombia last Saturday, but then still con- many would have given Qa- are the games you see now and we have ceded both goals in a much improved tar a semblance of a chance to forget this clash now and look to our second-half showing. Scaloni dropped Aagainst Argentina. But after meeting against Argentina,” he added. Manchester City’s Aguero and Di Maria two matches – where Qatar staged a Meanwhile, Messi was looking at a of Paris Saint-Germain for the Para- stunning fi ghtback to draw against Par- glass half full after the stalemate against guay match but Argentina produced aguay and then went down fi ghting to Paraguay. Five-time Ballon d’Or winner another disjointed and unconvincing Group B favourites Colombia, the Asian Messi’s 57th-minute penalty cancelled display. Champions have shown they would not out a fi rst-half opener from Paraguay’s But Messi insisted that the level of be just rolled over. Richard Sanchez on Wednesday night. competition is tougher than some ap- Felix Sanchez’s men have just one But Argentina also had goalkeeper preciate and pointed to Venezuela hold- point from two matches but are still in Franco Armani – perhaps lucky to still ing Brazil to a 0-0 draw on Tuesday as contention for a place in the quarter-fi - be on the fi eld at that point after deny- proof. “We knew it wasn’t going to be nals if they can beat Argentina in Porto ing Derlis Gonzalez a clear goalscoring easy playing in a Copa America, we’re Alegre tomorrow night. A draw could opportunity in the fi rst half – to thank searching for a team, for a perform- also see them as one of the two best for saving a second-half penalty. ance,” said Messi. third-placed teams among three groups “We have to think positively and “Venezuela made it hard for Brazil. to advance to the last eight, provided keep our confi dence,” said Barcelona At the moment we’re not winning any other results go their way. superstar Messi. “We need to improve more in the (Argentina) shirt and we Against Argentina, Qatar will fancy and arrive in the best shape possi- have to put things right to earn the three their chances, with the Lionel Messi- ble for the next match ... and we have points against Qatar,” he added led team struggling to make an impact to win. It would crazy if we couldn’t Messi came to Brazil hoping to end a so far. Argentina too have only one progress from the group given that painful run of losing fi nals with Argen- point following a 1-1 draw with Para- there are practically three teams that go tina. Despite winning La Liga 10 times guay with Messi’s successful penalty through,” said Messi, who will turn 32 and the Champions League four times keeping their hopes alive. Qatar are on Monday. with Barcelona, he’s never won a major even ahead of Lionel Scaloni’s team on Defeat at the Minerao stadium in honour with his country. goal diff erence. And if Qatar can keep Belo Horizonte would have meant that Three times – 2007, 2015 and 2016 Messi quiet for 90 minutes – diffi cult Argentina’s Lionel Messi (R) gestures near Paraguay’s Junior Alonso after tying 1-1 in their Copa America match at the Argentina could fi nish no higher than – he’s lost in a Copa America fi nal and but not impossible – then Qatar can eke Mineirao Stadium in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, on Thursday. third – Colombia have already won the in 2014 Argentina were also defeated by out a famous win. group after two straight wins. Now they Germany in the World Cup fi nal. But Against Colombia, Qatar players their best to deny the genius Argentine Qatar defender Tarek Salman praised gentina. “We are proud with our display know that victory over invitees Qatar after their fi rst two performances here, were resolute, putting on a terrifi c de- from dictating the play. They also will his team’s fi ghting spirit against Co- against Colombia. Hopefully we will do in Porto Alegre tomorrow will likely be the question is not whether they can fensive show and followed the plan laid have to counter the threat of prolifi c lombia. Salman said his team still had well against Argentina also,” Salman enough to see them into the quarters. end their 26-wait for a major title, but out by Sanchez to near perfection. But forward Sergio Aguero and attacking a chance to qualify for the next stage said. Argentina have showed few signs of simply whether they can avoid taking against Messi, they will have to be at midfi elder Angel Di Maria. provided that they play well against Ar- “It was a tough match against Co- fi nding the kind of form that took them the fi rst fl ight home.

FOCUS NEW ROLE Former goalie Cech Uruguay draw against Japan returns to Chelsea with help of VAR controversy as technical adviser Reuters Reuters cross but could palm it right four points, while Japan are third London Porto Alegre, Brazil into the path of Miyoshi, who with one. pounced to put the ball into the Second-placed Chile meet unguarded net to score his sec- bottom side Ecuador today be- helsea have appointed ruguay twice came ond of the game. fore a showdown with Uruguay their former goalkeep- from behind to draw The 15-time Copa America on Monday which is likely to er Petr Cech as tech- 2-2 against a young champions equalised again decide who wins the group, with Cnical and performance Japan side in the Copa seven minutes later through Japan facing Ecuador in their fi - adviser, the Premier League club performance-adviser. AmericaU with the help of two Gimenez, who escaped his nal game. announced yesterday. “I’m looking forward to the questionable refereeing deci- marker to head home from a Japan have brought a mostly Cech spent 11 years as a player new challenge and hope I can sions and will have to wait until corner. young squad to the Copa to pre- at Chelsea, winning 13 major use all of my football knowledge their fi nal group game to book Oscar Tabarez’s side went pare for next summer’s Olympic trophies, including four Premier and experience to help the team their place in the quarter-fi nals. all out for a winning goal that Games in Tokyo but Suarez said League titles and the Champions achieve even more success in the Tournament guests Japan would have sealed their place in he and his team mates had not League, before moving to their future.” went into the game after a 4-0 the last eight but were repeated- underestimated them. London rivals Arsenal in 2015. Cech ended his playing career defeat to Chile while Uruguay ly denied, with Suarez smashing “They are young and fast but In his new role, the 37-year- with Arsenal at the end of last had hammered Ecuador 4-0. a shot against the crossbar. we know they have a lot of qual- old will work closely with Chel- season, making his fi nal profes- But despite some early close Suarez had come close to ity. They pressed us well and sea director Marina Granovskaia sional appearance in their 4-1 attempts from Uruguay, Japan scoring in the second minute of they didn’t let us play the way and the fi rst-team coaching staff defeat by Chelsea in last month’s began to impose themselves on the game with an audacious vol- we wanted. and travel with the team to away Europa League fi nal. the game and Koji Miyoshi gave ley from near the halfway line “We knew what this game games, the club said in a state- His appointment kickstarts an them the lead in the 25th minute which skimmed the roof of the could be like, their result against ment. overhaul of Chelsea’s backroom with a confi dent fi nish following net, while Cavani clanged the Chile didn’t tell the full story.” “I feel very privileged to have staff , with the club also looking a counterattack. Japan’s Ko Itakura in action with Uruguay’s Giorgian de Arrascaeta crossbar with a thumping shot Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu this opportunity to join Chelsea to appoint a new manager after Uruguay striker Luis Sua- during their Copa America match yesterday. in the fi rst half. said the result would serve his again and help create the best Maurizio Sarri left for Juventus. rez levelled seven minutes later “We played well in general but young side well in the future. possible high level performance Cech’s former Chelsea from the penalty spot after a for the ball, was penalised to the peared to foul Shoya Nakajima, we learned that in tournaments “This draw will help us grow environment to continue the team mate Frank Lampard has controversial decision following bemusement of the Asian side. although they restored their lead of this quality if you make two because Uruguay is one of the success the club has had over the emerged as favourite to replace a VAR review. Japan’s frustrations grew af- shortly after without the need errors you can concede two goals top teams in international foot- past 15 years,” Cech told Chelsea’s Sarri after guiding Derby County Japan defender Naomichi ter the interval when they were for a spot kick. so we have to be more careful,” ball,” he said. website https://www.chelseafc. to the Championship (second- Ueda, who appeared to be kicked denied a penalty when Uruguay Uruguay keeper Fernando Suarez told reporters. “This point will help us de- com/en/news/2019/06/21/petr- tier) playoff fi nal in his fi rst sea- by Edinson Cavani in a dispute defender Jose Gimenez ap- Muslera came out to claim a Uruguay lead Group C with velop and boost our confi dence.” cech-appointed-technical-and- son in management. Gulf Times Saturday, June 22, 2019 3 FOOTBALL

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Nigeria team hit by cold-like illness Cameroon team one was wet and half of our team Reuters Alexandria was sick,” he said. Nigeria then travelled to Egypt and played another friendly, los- igeria’s preparations ing 1-0 to Senegal on Sunday. for the Africa Cup of Rohr said the new format for Nations have been the tournament — the number of hampered after sev- teams has been increased from 16 depart for Africa Neral members of the squad went to 24 — would make it more dif- down with an cold-like illness, fi cult to win. coach Gernot Rohr said yester- “It’s longer, the physical side day. of the game is a bit diff erent also “Unfortunately, we don’t have because of the hot temperatures everybody because four or fi ve but I only see nice pitches in good of our players could only start stadiums and the passion for training on Wednesday and they football in Egypt is so high I think Cup of Nations missed one week of physical it will be a very exciting Nations preparations, so we don’t have Cup,” he said. Hosts Egypt put elaborate security in place for prestigious continental event the best team,” he told reporters. The side will be captained The Super Eagles, who kick by John Obi Mikel, who has not off their campaign against debu- played for his country since the tants Burundi in Group B today, last World Cup but said he has are taking part at the tournament stayed in touch. for the fi rst time since they won “I was always in contact with it in 2013, having remarkably the team, coach and players, I failed to qualify in 2015 or 2017. knew everything that was going “There is much joy at being on,” said Mikel, who said he only here after missing the tourna- wanted to play for his country ment twice,” he said Rohr, adding when he was “ready and focused that the team were itching to get and motivated. started after a long build-up. “The players know what it “For three weeks, we have takes to win this tournament but been together — we started in only three of us were in the team Nigeria in the fi rst week, in the that won in 2013,” he said. rainy season so it was very diff er- “It’s a very young team...there ent from here. We had a friendly is a very good blend of young and against Zimbabwe in heavy rain, old players, the spirit in the team some of us caught a cold, every- is very good.”

LEGEND Spain’s World Cup winner Torres quits

Reuters a news conference in Japan on Madrid Sunday to explain his decision. Torres made his Spain debut in 2003 and scored the win- pain’s World Cup win- ning goal in the 2008 European ning striker Fernando Championship final against Torres announced his Germany before helping his S retirement from foot- country win their first World ball yesterday, bringing an end Cup in 2010. to a glittering 18-year career. He was the top scorer at Euro Torres, who scored more 2012 as Spain successfully de- than 100 goals across two fended their title and scored 38 spells at his boyhood club goals in 110 appearances for his Fans pose for a picture ahead of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) football match between Egypt and Zimbabwe at Cairo International Stadium yesterday. Atletico Madrid, also played country in total, making him for Premier League sides Liv- Spain’s country’s third-high- Reuters ums,” said the statement. Egypt. Cameroon has a rich soc- ter the death of former Islamist in place around the perimeter erpool and Chelsea and Italy’s est goalscorer behind David Yaounde “We will be travelling to Egypt cer history, with both male and president Mohamed Mursi. of the expansive venue, while AC Milan. Villa (59) and Raul (44). on Friday.” female teams taking part in a According to local media, cit- drones will reportedly be used He left Atletico to join Ja- Torres enjoyed his the most Pay disputes before major number of past World Cups. ing security sources, the number during matches to “identity” pan’s Sagan Tosu in July last prolific spell at Liverpool be- ameroon’s soccer competitions are not unusual The women’s team was one of of security personnel involved fans and take pictures that can year but has struggled to hit tween 2007 and 2011, netting team are heading to for African soccer federations three African teams to qualify throughout the competition will be “transferred to the relevant the heights of his best days at 81 goals in 142 games across Egypt for the Africa who often do not have suffi cient for the World Cup taking place total 15,000 spanning the four authority handling stadium se- Atletico and Liverpool at the J- all competitions. He moved to CCup of Nations af- resources to pay their players in France. They face England in host cities — Cairo, Alexandria, curity to match them with FAN League side. Chelsea from Liverpool for a ter initially refusing to board a high sums. Nigeria and Ghana the last 16 on Sunday. Suez and Ismailia — and six sta- ID database”. “After 18 exciting years, then British record fee of 50mn fl ight because of a players’ pay have experienced similar prob- But the Central African coun- diums in use. A system will also be used to the time has come to put an pounds ($63.49mn), and won dispute, the team said in a state- lems in recent World Cups. try was last year stripped of its Heavily armed personnel and track “every fan from the mo- end to my football career,” the the FA Cup, Champions League ment yesterday. Ministry of sports spokesman right to host the 2019 Nations armoured vehicles are taking up ment they enter the stadium 35-year-old wrote on Twit- and Europa League with the The champions face Guinea- Gabriel Nloga said the play- Cup due to delays in prepara- positions around the grounds, until the moment they leave ter, adding that he would hold London club. Bissau in their opening match of ers had each been paid a bonus tions for the tournament and three of which are in the capital, through the gates”, according to the tournament on Tuesday, but of 20mn CFA francs ($34,692). security concerns. with local media reporting fans local media. the players did not appear for A source at Cameroon’s soccer Meanwhile, a vast security for the curtain-raiser between Set to run well into the their fl ight on Thursday evening federation said the players had operation greeted tens of thou- hosts Egypt and Zimbabwe scorching month of July, the amid a spat over bonus pay- asked for twice that. sands of largely red-clad sup- would no longer be granted ac- Cup of Nations marks the fi rst ments. Following negotiations, the porters in Cairo ahead of the cess to the 75,000-capacity Cai- time Egypt has hosted a major “We are not satisfi ed (with the ministry of sport agreed yester- opening match in the Africa Cup ro International after 6.30pm sports tournament since long- government’s proposition), but day to pay each player a one-off of Nations, with the tournament (1630 GMT), three and a half time autocrat Hosni Mubarak we have decided to end all ne- 5mn CFA franc bonus once they kicking off against a backdrop of hours before kick-off . was ousted by mass protests in gotiation concerning our premi- have won their fi rst match in terror attacks and only days af- Numerous checkpoints were 2011.

WOMEN’S WORLD CUP USA advance with Sweden win AFP awarded a penalty via VAR, only Le Havre, France for Francisca Lara to crash her spot-kick off the bar and see her side knocked out. he United States made it Just 10 seconds of the allot- File picture of Fernando Torres. a perfect three wins out ted fi ve minutes of added time of three at the Women’s remained in Montpellier when World Cup on Thurs- Nchout curled her team into the Tday by beating Sweden 2-0 to next round as one of the best FIFA pushes Iran to allow top Group F, as Chile missed a third-placed teams after a slalo- late penalty to lose out on the ming run. female fans in stadiums knockout stages at the death. The Netherlands will meet The Americans will con- Japan in the last 16 after Lineth Paris: FIFA president Gianni by security forces for a number tinue their bid to defend their Beerensteyn turned in a Desiree Infantino has put pressure on of hours”. world title against Spain in van Lunteren cross in the 75th Iran in an attempt to ensure that “Unfortunately, this is, I also have Reims on Monday after a win minute in Reims to seal their the country will allow female to say, not in line with the com- that saw them make it 18 goals win over Canada and advance as football fans to attend matches in mitments given to us in March for the tournament and break Group E winners. the qualifiers for the 2022 World 2018 by President (Hassan) the 24-year-old record for the Canada thought they had won Cup, according to a letter sent to Rouhani when we were assured number of goals scored in the a penalty inside two minutes in the Iranian Football Federation that important progress would group stage held by Norway. Reims only for French referee and seen by AFP. be made on this matter soon,” Lindsey Horan opened the Stephanie Frappart to overturn In the letter dated June 18, he added. The FIFA president, scoring when she tapped home her decision following a VAR re- Infantino mentioned his at- who in early June was re-elected Samantha Mewis’ fl ick with two view. tendance at the second leg of for a four-year term, referred to minutes on the clock, and Tobin The Dutch took the lead early the Asian Champions League the spotlight placed on women Heath made sure of the points by in the second half when Anouk final in Tehran last November, in football at the ongoing World fi ring past Hedvig Lindahl four Dekker headed in from a free- between Iranian club Persepolis Cup in France and asked Iranian minutes after the break. kick, but Canada drew level and Kashima Antlers of Japan, authorities to provide “concrete Heath’s strike somehow sur- soon after as Christine Sinclair when women were allowed into steps” before July 15 towards vived a VAR check from referee Sweden’s Stina Blackstenius in action with Abby Dahlkemper of the US during their World Cup match converted at the back post from the stadium, “for the first time allowing women to attend quali- Anastasia Pustovoytova despite on Thursday night. an inviting low cross by Ashley in 40 years”. Infantino referred fiers for the 2022 World Cup in substitute Carli Lloyd looking to Lawrence. to “these important first steps” Qatar, which start in September. be off side in the build up. threat. However their defeat ther down the line. on Thursday. There was heart- It was the veteran Sinclair’s but regretted that women were Women have been barred from Sweden started with a team means that they face Canada The only truly top draw side break for Chile meanwhile, who 182nd goal for her country, leav- not then permitted to attend the attending matches since the with seven changes from the next in Paris on Monday and are lined up for the Swedes is Ger- needed to beat Thailand by three ing her just two shy of Abby friendly between Iran and Syria 1979 revolution, with clerics argu- side that beat Thailand 5-1 last in an easier side of the knockout many, who they could meet in goals in order to pip Nigeria into Wambach’s international record earlier this month, and that “a ing they must be protected from time out and four players mak- draw from the States, who have the quarter-fi nals if they beat the knockouts. with the United States, but number of women seeking to the masculine atmosphere and ing their World Cup debut, and hosts France, England and Nor- Canada, who lost 2-1 to Group E They were 2-0 up with fi ve wasn’t enough to beat their op- attend the match were detained sight of semi-clad men. off ered very little attacking way as potential opponents fur- winners the Netherlands earlier minutes left when they were ponents to fi rst place. Gulf Times 4 Saturday, June 22, 2019 SPORT

TENNIS SPOTLIGHT Federer battles into Auger-Aliassime 15th Halle semi-fi nal, Zverev crashes out

AFP Frenchman said that he felt an Halle Westfalen, Germany “unbelievable energy” going into his fi rst-ever meeting with Fed- erer. “It will be unbelievable for sails past Tsitsipas oger Federer’s resolve me to face Roger. I have played was tested again yes- against Nadal, against Djokovic, terday as he battled to a against Murray, but never against 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 win over him,” said Herbert. Spain’sR Roberto Bautista Agut Earlier, world number fi ve Al- to reach the last four of the ATP exander Zverev suff ered a sur- event in Halle for the 15th time. prise 6-3, 1-6, 6-7 (3/7) quarter- World number three Federer fi nal defeat by Belgium’s David into Queen’s semis is chasing a record-extending Goffi n. Home favourite Zverev tenth title on the Halle grass as was playing with a swollen knee he warms up for Wimbledon next after slipping and hurting him- month, but has had to scrap to self in the fi rst round, and the The 18-year-old emulates Lleyton Hewitt, who made the semis in 1999 at the same age stay in the tournament this week. Halle crowd watched on in dis- He prevailed in a gruelling may as he struggled to fi nd his Reuters three-set encounter with Jo- rhythm against world number 33 London Wilfried Tsonga on Thursday, Goffi n. and was taken the distance again “You can look at things nega- by Bautista Agut in yesterday’s tively or positively. I played three anadian teenager Felix Auger- quarter-fi nal. The Swiss next good matches here, and it’s not Aliassime became the youngest faces Andy Murray’s Wimbledon as if he blew me away today,” said player in 20 years to reach the doubles partner Pierre-Hugues Zverev. The defeat compounds semi-fi nals of the Queen’s Club Herbert in today’s semi-fi nals. a disappointing grass season so Cchampionships as he dispatched top seed The 20-time Grand Slam far for the German, who suff ered Stefanos Tsitsipas with consummate ease champion has now reached the another early exit on home soil in yesterday. last four in each of his last 15 ap- Stuttgart last week at the hands The 18-year-old was cool, calm and pearances at Halle since losing to of compatriot Dustin Brown. collected throughout the contest on a Pat Rafter in the 2001 quarters. The 22-year-old is hoping sunlit centre court as he claimed a 7-5, The 37-year-old will be aiming to rediscover his form and fi t- 6-2 victory to emulate Lleyton Hewitt, for his ninth Wimbledon tri- ness in time for the beginning of who made the semis in 1999 at the same umph in July, having seen Rafael Wimbledon on July 1. “I am not age. Considering it was his third match Nadal cut his lead in the all-time at 100%, but I think I’ll be ok,” in 24 hours after rain delays earlier in the Grand Slam title winners’ list to he said. Goffi n will face Italian week, Auger-Aliassime looked as fresh as two with victory at the French talent Matteo Berrettini in the a daisy against world number six Tsitsi- Open earlier this month, when semi-fi nals. Berrettini continued pas, who was lacking his usual spark after the Spaniard beat Federer in the his excellent 2019 form with a a similarly busy schedule on Thursday. semi-fi nals. 6-2, 7-6 (7/4) victory over Rus- There will be no all-Canadian semi- Herbert won the fi rst set of his sian third seed Karen Khachanov. fi nal, however, after Spanish veteran Feli- quarter-fi nal 7-5 against reign- Berrettini, 23, won his third ATP ciano Lopez, the 2017 champion, outlast- ing champion Borna Coric, be- title of the season in Stuttgart ed Milos Raonic 4-6 6-4 7-6(5). Lopez fore the Croatian retired with a last week, and has soared up to was due on court later to partner home back problem. The 28-year-old 22 in the world rankings this year. favourite and fi ve-time champion Andy Murray in a doubles clash. Auger-Aliassime saved a couple of break points in a tight fi rst set but pounced in the 12th game to reach 15-40 on the Tsitsipas serve and took his second set point with a heavy forehand that the Greek could not handle. The Canadian, who has bounded up the rankings to 21 this year, broke in the second game of the second set and domi- nated thereafter as a weary-looking Tsit- sipas, who required some treatment on his Canada’s Felix Auger-Aliassime lunges shoulder, faded fast. for a forehand en route to his win over “I had zero expectations coming here, Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas during the but I’ve managed to handle my nerves quarter-finals at Queen’s Club in west and keep my serve all the time,” he said. London yesterday. (AFP) “I felt good from the start. It was key that I saved a few early break points and then I raised my level when I had to. I started the second set in an amazing way, aggressive and moving him around. Very happy the “The scoreline doesn’t tell the story of rounds at the Queen’s Club tournament. time he confronted Canadian teenager way I played.” the match,” Medvedev, who is at a career- The 24-year-old, who last month was Felix Auger-Aliassime later on Thursday. In the other side of the draw fourth high 13 in the rankings after an impressive disqualifi ed from the Italian Open for His racket went fl ying over the stand of seed Daniil Medvedev became the fi rst year, said. “It’s great to be the fi rst Rus- throwing a chair across court, accused a the court after the 18-year-old broke him Russian to reach the semi-fi nals at the sian to be in the semi-fi nals and a bit sur- line-judge of “match-rigging” during his to win the third set 7-5 and the match. tournament in the professional era as he prising, maybe it’s the fi rst time I made fi rst round match with Roberto Carballes The ATP supervisor ruled Kyrgios had too much fi repower for Argentina’s history! Now I want to put the bar a bit Baena over what he thought was a poor should be fi ned $7,500 for two separate Diego Schwartzman. higher.” line call. He threatened to walk off court counts of unsportsmanlike behaviour in Medvedev, 23, used his skidding ground before resuming and winning the match, the fi rst round match and $10,000 for his strokes to great eff ect in a 6-2, 6-2 win. KYRGIOS FINED HEAVILY FOR although not before making fun of um- behaviour in the Auger-Aliassime clash. Standing between him and the fi nal is QUEEN’S ANTICS pire Fergus Murphy’s hat and seemingly Kyrgios also lashed out at a press confer- Frenchmen Gilles Simon, who beat com- Fiery Australian Nick Kyrgios was fi ned losing interest in his match by peering ence accusing the ATP of double stand- patriot Nicolas Mahut 7-6(5), 5-7, 7-6(3) almost $20,000 (£15,700) yesterday for over the fence to watch another. ards with no punishment for offi cials who David Goff in from Belgium pumps his fist after defeating Alexander in a match lasting three hours 20 minutes. his controversial behaviour over two Kyrgios had not calmed down by the make bad calls. Zverev from Germany in Halle, western Germany. (AFP)

BOXING FOCUS Riled-up Pacquiao taps ‘aggressive’ Barty beats Venus to close in streak ahead of Thurman clash on world number one spot AFP KERBER REACHES SEMI-FINAL AFP Birmingham, United Kingdom IN MALLORCA Los Angeles Reigning Wimbledon champion Angelique Kerber continued her build-up to the grasscourt Grand rench Open champion Ashleigh Barty Slam as she beat sixth seed Caroline Garcia 6-3 eteran trainer Freddie Roach says moved to within two matches of becoming 7-6(5) to reach the semi-fi nals of the Mallorca Manny Pacquiao has rediscovered world number one after seeing off Venus Open. The 31-year-old German, seeking a fi rst title his aggressive streak as the one- Williams 6-4, 6-3 to reach the semi-fi nals of the year, again showed no sign of the ankle in- month countdown to his battle ofF the Birmingham Classic. Barty will edge ahead jury that dogged her claycourt season as she ended Vwith welterweight champion Keith Thur- of Naomi Osaka at the top of the rankings ahead Garcia’s seven-match winning run. She will take on man got under way on Thursday. of Wimbledon by taking the title and extended her world number 13 Belinda Bencic after she got the Pacquiao has entered the fi nal phase of winning streak to 10 matches against the fi ve-time better of American teenager Amanda Anisimova. training for the July 20 showdown with Wimbledon champion. Latvian second seed Anastasija Sevastova main- Thurman, arriving in Los Angeles last week- Williams made the better start as the 39-year- tained her remarkable record at the grasscourt end to work under long-time trainer Roach old took a 4-1 fi rst set lead. Barty, though, is also at tournament as she thrashed China’s Yafan Wang for at his famed Wild Card gym. ease on the grass and responded in style by romp- the loss of three games, 6-2 6-1. The 40-year-old eight-division world ing through the next fi ve games to take the set. The Sevastova has reached the fi nal on all three edi- champion has been riled by trash-talking Australian had to stave off break points in her open- tions of the Santa Ponsa event, winning the title from WBA champion Thurman ahead of the ing service game of the second set, but then took in 2017. In the semis she will face Belgium’s Elise bout, with the undefeated American vowing control with two breaks of the Williams serve to set Mertens who won a three-setter against American to send Pacquiao into retirement at Las Ve- Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao trains in Los Angeles on Thursday. (AFP) up a semi-fi nal meeting with Barbora Strycova. Sofi a Kenin. gas’s MGM Grand next month. Pacquiao said Thurman’s remarks had bit upset. He wants to win this one a little bit the killer instinct that he used to have. I fuelled his training camp. Asked for his re- more than usual.” think religion took that away from us. For sponse to Thurman’s retirement jibes, Pac- Pacquiao has carried that sense of griev- a while he would tell me that he just needs Del Potro heads for surgery, unsure if he will play again quiao replied: “My response to him is we’ll ance into his training sessions. For the fi rst to beat his opponents and not knock them see. He is giving me more motivation and time in several fi ghts, Roach is wearing pro- out. But he doesn’t say that any more. He’s London: Juan Martin del Potro do not know,” said the 30-year- Del Potro’s career has been determination to work hard and prove that tective padding around his torso during his getting more aggressive. He was more ag- said yesterday that he is not old. “I asked the doctors what ravaged by injuries, most nota- it’s not true. I’m happy that he’s saying mitt sessions. “I was really happy I brought gressive in his last fi ght than I’ve seen him in sure if he has played his last ten- was the best option, thinking bly to his left wrist that saw him that... It gives me inspiration to focus and my padding back,” Roach said. years. I hope that continues into this fi ght. nis match after fracturing the about my health and my knee, sidelined for most of the 2014 do the best that I can in the ring.” “Because I haven’t worn that in a while. Because when Manny’s aggressive he’s a patella in his right knee for the and not about tennis, and they and 2015 seasons. However, he Pacquiao’s measured response contrast- I came up with that idea because I didn’t much better fi ghter.” second time in nine months. answered that an operation was battled back to the top of the ed with the assessment of his inner circle. want Manny to go easy on his opponents. Roach, who was briefl y exiled from the The Argentine posted a video the correct choice,” del Potro game, reaching the Olympic Former Australian heavyweight Justin For- We went 10 rounds yesterday and he was re- Filipino star’s corner before returning to on Instagram saying he would said. final and led Argentina to the tune, Pacquiao’s strength and conditioning ally happy to see I had the padding. It does help him defeat Adrien Broner in January, undergo surgery in Barcelona The world number 12, a Davis Cup title in 2016. coach, said the Filipino icon was “pissed off ” make a diff erence. I want him going full blast said his diff ering views on religion with today on the knee he broke slip- former US Open champion, “I don’t know what’s going to by Thurman’s remarks. on the mitts.” Pacquiao remained a bone of contention. ping on court towards the end returned to action in February, happen next,” he said on Insta- “He’s said some pretty silly stuff ,” Fortune Roach meanwhile said he believed that “That’s an issue we don’t see eye-to-eye on, of his first round win at Queen’s but has been limited to just five gram. “I hope I can recover well said. Roach meanwhile said that Pacquiao while Pacquiao’s devout religious beliefs so we try not to talk about it,” he said. Club in London over Denis tournament appearances this and have my knee healthy again had been “upset” by Thurman’s comments. had eradicated his killer instinct, he had “Part of that I don’t like is that it has Shapovalov on Wednesday. season and will not recover I’m going undergo surgery and “Manny’s motivated for all his fi ghts and upped his aggression. “Manny’s work ethic nothing to do with boxing, in my opinion. In “If the other day was my last in time for Wimbledon which to thank you for the support and this time, this guy’s talking a little trash,” is great,” Roach said. “He works hard, and the ring, you’re on your own. The guy who match of tennis or not, today I begins on July 1. the strength you give me.” Roach said. “So that helps. Manny has got a is incredibly dedicated. But he doesn’t have prays the most is not going to win the fi ght.” Gulf Times Saturday, June 22, 2019 5 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Back issues likely to end Callahan’s career Pelicans pick Williamson Los Angeles: Tampa Bay Lightning forward Ryan Callahan likely will never play professional hockey again due to a degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine. The Lightning announced on Thursday he is being placed fi rst overall in NBA draft on long-term injured reserve after his diagnosis of serious back issues and the recom- mendation of doctors. ‘I didn’t think I’d be in this position. My mom sacrificed a lot for me. I wouldn’t be here without her’ “He’s such a proud compet- itor, such a fierce competitor. Reuters I know he was planning to not New York only play out this contract, but sign another contract after that,” Lightning general ion Williamson tried his best manager Julien BriseBois to hold back tears. But as the said. Callahan, 34, collected 6-foot-7, 285-pound power for- seven goals and 10 assists in ward stood next to his mother 52 games last season. Zand refl ected on the life-changing mo- He has one year left on his ment that happened a few minutes ear- contract with a $5.8 million lier, he cried out of gratitude. cap hit. A New York native, The New Orleans Pelicans selected he eclipsed the 20-goal mark Williamson with the No 1 overall pick in four times in his NHL career the 2019 NBA Draft on Thursday night. that began with the New “I don’t know what to say,” Williamson York Rangers in the 2006-07 said after hearing the Pelicans call his season. name at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. After seven-plus seasons “I didn’t think I’d be in this posi- there, he went to the Light- tion. My mom sacrifi ced a lot for me. I ning in 2014 in a trade that wouldn’t be here without her. She put sent right wing Martin St. her dreams aside for mine. She always Louis to New York. In 757 looked out for the family fi rst before career games, Callahan herself.” collected 186 goals and 200 The reigning college basketball player assists for 386 points. of the year dominated in his only season He also represented Team at Duke. He averaged 22.6 points, 8.9 USA at the 2010 and 2014 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game while Winter Olympics, capturing making 33 starts. He added 2.1 steals silver in Vancouver in 2010. and 1.8 blocks per game with an elite According to reports, Cal- combination of size and athleticism. lahan had hoped to play for a Williamson provided the Pelicans few more years in his quest to with star power at the top of a draft class win a Stanley Cup title. that included fi ve guards selected with But his pain went from the next six picks and three Duke play- manageable to unbearable. ers in the top 10. The Memphis Griz- “It was literally taking it day- zlies used the No 2 selection to take Ja by-day, seeing how I felt when Morant, an electrifying point guard out I woke up,” Callahan said. “If of Murray State. He averaged a double- it’s a game day, you just try to double with 24.5 points and 10.0 assists keep it loose as possible and last season while shooting nearly 50% hope nothing happens. Some- from the fi eld. times it did. “I truly thought Morant was a fringe draft prospect a there could be a solution,” he year ago before taking an enormous leap added. With Callahan on the as a sophomore. “It feels good to be able LTIR list, the Lightning can to accomplish my dream,” Morant said. exceed the salary cap by up “How I got here is crazy. (My confi - to $5.8mn to replace him. dence) started with me. If you don’t be- lieve in yourself, then who will?” Duke shooting guard RJ Barrett drew Zion Williamson is introduced before the start of the 2019 NBA Draft in New York on Thursday night. (AFP) the loudest applause inside of the arena when the New York Knicks took him multiple draft picks. Reddish (No 10 to the Hawks). 29. The Suns reportedly acquired vet- and could help with the absence of Klay with the No 3 selection. Knicks celeb- The Cleveland Cavaliers capped the The next batch of 10 picks included eran centre Aron Baynes and the 24th Thompson, who tore his ACL in the rity fan Spike Lee was among those who top fi ve picks by selecting Vanderbilt three players from overseas. The Detroit pick, which they used on Ty Jerome of NBA Finals. The Heat ended perhaps attended the draft to see Barrett shake point guard Darius Garland. The Min- Pistons selected power forward Sekou Virginia, from the Boston Celtics in ex- the largest slide by any prospect, draft- hands with NBA commissioner Adam nesota Timberwolves reportedly traded Doumbouya from France at No 15, the change for a fi rst-round pick (originally ing Oregon center Bol Bol — considered Silver. “I’m just ready for this,” Barrett up to take Texas Tech shooting guard Indiana Pacers chose centre Goga Bit- owned by Milwaukee) in 2020. a possible lottery pick — 44th overall. said. “I want to embrace the city and Jarrett Culver at No. adze from Georgia at No 18 and the San One player who slid unexpectedly Miami then traded the rights of Bol, embrace the team and everything. I’m 6. The run on backcourt players con- Antonio Spurs picked power forward in the fi rst round was North Carolina the 7-foot-2 son of former 7-7 player ready to go.” tinued as the Chicago Bulls chose North Luka Samanic from Croatia at No 19. freshman small forward Nassir Little, Manute Bol, to the Denver Nuggets for Virginia small forward De’Andre Carolina point guard Coby White with The Kentucky Wildcats celebrated who was projected as a possible lot- a future second-round pick and cash Hunter went No 4 and is expected to the seventh pick. back-to-back picks, as power forward PJ tery pick. The Portland Trail Blazers considerations. join the Atlanta Hawks. The Los Ange- The rest of the top 10 included Texas Washington went to the Charlotte Bob- pounced on Little with the 25th pick. Cameras showed Pelicans fans les Lakers originally owned the pick but big man Jaxson Hayes (No 8, reportedly cats at No 12 and shooting guard Tyler The Golden State Warriors selected crowding the streets of New Orleans agreed to send it to the Pelicans, who to the Pelicans), Gonzaga power forward Herro went to the Miami Heat at No 13. Michigan shooting guard Jordan Poole and cheering when they heard William- then reportedly shipped it to Atlanta Rui Hachimura (No 9 to the Washington Another Kentucky player, small forward at No 28. Poole proved himself as a son’s name called at No 1. “Let’s dance,” along with Solomon Hill in exchange for Wizards) and Duke small forward Cam Keldon Johnson, went to the Spurs at No consistent shooter with the Wolverines Williamson said with a grin.

MLB Yanks continue home run streak, cruise past Astros Reuters Arizona for the eighth consecutive time New York with a victory in Phoenix. The Rock- ATHLETICS 5, RAYS 4 ies loaded the bases against Yoshihisa Matt Chapman capped a fourth-run Hirano (3-4) with one out in the 10th ninth inning with a three-run home ary Sanchez, Gleyber Torres on a single and two walks, before Ian- run, allowing host Oakland to rally for and DJ LeMahieu homered in netta drove a 2-0 pitch off the wall in a walk-off victory over Tampa Bay in the bottom of the fourth in- the centre fi eld. the opener of a four-game series. The ning as the New York Yankees Christian Walker’s pinch-hit two- improbable fi nish came after the Rays Gconnected for the 23rd consecutive run homer to centre for Arizona tied the had taken advantage of Blake Treinen’s game and recorded a 10-6 victory over score at 3 in the sixth inning. wildness to score three times in the top the Houston Astros on Thursday night The Diamondbacks gained the lead of the ninth to go up 4-1. at Yankee Stadium in the opener of a when Ketel Marte legged out a dou- Rays closer Diego Castillo (1-5) four-game series. ble on a hit to left, went to third on a walked two of the fi rst three batters he Edwin Encarnacion added his groundout and scored on David Per- faced in the last of the ninth, but got league-leading 23rd homer by hitting alta’s blooper to shallow centre. within one out of his eighth save before a two-run drive in the seventh, as the Marcus Semien singled in a run to get Yankees won their sixth straight. New MARLINS 7, CARDINALS 6 Oakland within 4-2. York’s home run streak is the second JT Riddle, who entered the game hit- longest in team history and two shy ting.187, slugged a two-run homer in ROYALS 4, TWINS 1 of the team record set from June 1-29, the 11th inning to lead Miami over host Glenn Sparkman allowed one run 1941. Jake Marisnick and Alex Bregman St. Louis. Andrew Miller (3-3) walked over seven innings, and Alex Gordon hit back-to-back homers in the fi fth for Cesar Puello on four pitches before had a two-run double as Kansas City Houston off Nestor Cortes Jr. Rookie Riddle pulled a 1-2 slider to right for his snapped Jake Odorizzi’s 10-game win- Yordan Alvarez hit a solo homer in the third homer of the season. ning streak with a victory over visiting sixth off Tommy Kahnle, and Josh Red- Jarlin Garcia (1-0) pitched two score- Minnesota. It was the fi rst loss since dick hit an RBI single in the eighth as less innings to earn the win. Sergio April 10 against Noah Syndergaard and the Astros lost their fi fth straight game. Romo earned his 13th save despite al- the New York Mets for Odorizzi (10-3) lowing Yadier Molina’s RBI double. Mi- who entered the contest with an Amer- DODGERS 9, GIANTS 8 ami’s Zac Gallen allowed one run on fi ve ican League-best 2.24 ERA. In what was expected to be Madison hits in fi ve innings and was in line for He allowed four runs on eight hits Bumgarner’s fi nal start in a San Fran- the win before St. Louis rallied. Cardi- and a walk before departing after just cisco uniform at Dodger Stadium, Los nals veteran Adam Wainwright allowed four innings, throwing 80 pitches, 53 Angeles gave its own version of a send- three runs on six hits in 5 1/3 innings in of which were strikes. He struck out off , holding on for a victory. The Gi- his fi rst start off the injured list. two. Sparkman (2-3), who came into ants made things interesting by scoring New York Yankees’ DJ LeMahieu hits a home run against the Houston Astros at Yankee Stadium. (USA TODAY Sports) the contest with an 0-3 record and 6.75 seven runs over the fi nal three innings, CUBS 7, METS 4 ERA against the Twins, allowed fi ve hits including four in the ninth. Bumgar- Anthony Rizzo’s two-run double gave REDS 7, BREWERS 1 and stole a base. Milwaukee’s Christian sweeps came in two-game sets against and a walk while striking out three. ner (3-7), likely to be dealt by the July Chicago the lead for good during a six- Jose Iglesias hit a homer and drove in Yelich was 2-for-4 with his league- the Atlanta Braves in late May and the 31 non-waiver trade deadline, gave up run third inning as it beat visiting New four runs as visiting Cincinnati won leading 28th home run, but the Brew- Chicago White Sox in early June. BLUE JAYS 7, ANGELS 5 six runs on 10 hits in just 3 2/3 innings. York in the opener of a four-game se- its season-high fi fth straight game, ers mustered just fi ve hits and lost their The Nationals have won four in a row Billy McKinney hit a two-run home Kyle Garlick and Austin Barnes each hit ries. Rookie Adbert Alzolay earned the trouncing slumping Milwaukee. Igle- fourth straight. and captured 17 of 24 games. Philadel- run with none out in the bottom of two-run home runs off Bumgarner two win in his big-league debut by tossing sias went 2-for-5 with a two-run single phia, which had two runners thrown 10th inning, and Toronto salvaged the batters apart in the fourth inning. four-plus impressive innings of relief. and two-run homer, notching his third NATIONALS 7, PHILLIES 4 out at home, has lost four in a row and fi nale of a four-game series with a vic- The Cubs have won two straight. The four-RBI game this season, as the Reds Anthony Rendon and Victor Robles hit six of seven. The Phillies’ Jean Segura tory over visiting Los Angeles. McKin- ROCKIES 6, DIAMONDBACKS 4 Mets, who fi red pitching coach Dave built a 5-1 lead through fi ve innings. homers during a four-run sixth inning tied the score at 3-3 with a solo homer ney’s fourth homer of the season — and Colorado rallied to tie the score in the Eiland and bullpen coach Chuck Hern- Nick Senzel was 2-for-4 with a as host Washington beat Philadelphia, in the fi fth off lefty reliever Matt Grace. his fi rst career walk-off blast — came ninth inning, and Chris Iannetta deliv- andez prior to the game, have lost four homer and three RBIs, and Yasiel Puig completing its fi rst three-game sweep of Jay Bruce had three hits, including a against Ty Buttrey (4-4) after Randal ered a two-run single in the 10th to beat of fi ve. recorded two hits, including a triple, the season. Washington’s only previous homer to make it 7-4. Grichuk led off with a single. Gulf Times 6 Saturday, June 22, 2019 SPORT

F1 GOLF Green leads Women’s Ferrari’s Montreal PGA Championship AFP going in. I guess I just had a lot of Los Angeles luck today with putts going in and getting good bounces,” she said. The 22-year-old Green’s best annah Green didn’t let previous fi nish at a major was an equipment over- a tie for 16th at last year’s ANA appeal rejected as sight spoil her opening Inspiration. “I don’t think I ever round at the Women’s had a tap-in putt for my par putts PGAH Championship, shooting when I missed the green,” said a bogey-free 68 for a one-shot Green, who is in her second year lead on Thursday. of the LPGA Tour. “Nearly every Australia’s Green had a hard hole was a six-footer. I made all time keeping warm and dry be- of them.” Mercedes dominate cause she forgot to put rain gear Reid and Kim, winner of the or towels in her bag on a day 2014 Evian Championship, both when bad weather made for some had just one bogey on their cards Mercedes’ Bottas was fastest in yesterday’s second free practice in France diffi cult playing conditions at the for a three-under 69. Two-time Hazeltine National golf course. major winner Ariya Jutanugarn AFP “I only brought one jacket and of Thailand, Lin Xiyu of China Le Castellet, France I was freezing cold,” she said. and defending champion Park “My caddy and I both really Sung-hyun are part of a group of weren’t prepared for the rain. I a half dozen at 70. errari’s bid to be granted a review thought it was going to come The big group of players at 71 of Sebastian Vettel’s penalty, much later in the day after nine includes another pair of double- and lost victory, at the Canadian holes. Luckily there was a staff major champions, Ryu So-yeon Grand Prix was rejected yesterday member from the course com- and Lydia Ko, as well as those asF Lewis Hamilton escaped punishment ing out with towels, otherwise I chasing their fi rst major, Angel for a similar, but lesser, infringement don’t know if I would have been Yin, Lee Mi-rim, Chella Choi, during second practice for the French able to keep hold of the club.” Carlota Ciganda and Moriya Ju- Grand Prix. But Green fought the elements tanugarn. American Michelle A hearing called by the stewards of the and fi nished with a slim lead over Wie returned to competition for Montreal race, held between practice ses- runner-ups Mel Reid of England the fi rst time in two months and sions at the French event, rejected the and South Korea’s Kim Hyo-joo stumbled her way to a shocking Italian team’s claims that they had con- on a day when just 16 players 12-over 84. vincing and “overwhelming” new evi- broke par in Chaska, Minnesota. “I was foolish to think I would dence. The outcome of the hearing con- It was also not a good day for the shoot really well,” said a tearful fi rmed Hamilton as the race winner. host Americans as only one fi n- Wie, who is coming off wrist sur- The defending fi ve-time world cham- ished in the top 15. gery. It matched the worst score pion fi nished second on the track behind Green needed just 23 putts on for a round in her career. “It’s just Vettel in Montreal, but was classifi ed fi rst Thursday and her best shot came one of those situations where after Vettel’s fi ve second penalty was ap- on the par-fi ve seventh when she I’m not entirely sure how much plied. Vettel had been penalised for re- holed a bunker shot for a birdie. I have left in me. So even on the joining the race in an unsafe fashion after “As soon as it landed on the green bad days, I’m just like trying to going off and running across a strip of I knew there was a chance of it take time to enjoy it,” she said. grass at the fi rst chicane, his move forcing Hamilton to take dramatic action to avoid a collision. Ferrari’s sporting director Laurent Me- kies had told reporters before yesterday’s hearing that Ferrari had new evidence to present that was “pretty overwhelm- ing” in proving that Vettel was innocent of breaking any rules. This evidence in- cluded telemetry data, video playback of the incident, interviews and analysis by television pundits. It also included a wit- ness statement by Vettel. In a statement, the stewards said: “There are no signifi cant and relevant new elements which were unavailable to Ferrari’s German driver Sebastian Vettel (left) speaks with a technician in the pits during the practice session at the Circuit Paul the parties at the time of the competition Ricard in Le Castellet, southern France, ahead of the Grand Prix de France. (AFP) concerned.” Hamilton’s Mercedes teammate Valt- ahead of his Ferrari teammate Vettel, the British rookie Lando Norris was a sur- led Bottas, there was little to entertain a teri Bottas was fastest in yesterday af- pair running six- and seven-tenths adrift prise fi fth for McLaren ahead of Max Ver- sparse crowd until the world champion ternoon’s second free practice ahead of of the top pace set by Bottas on soft tyres stappen of Red Bull, Carlos Sainz in the went off through Turns Three and Four, the Briton, who had been quickest in the on an afternoon of searing heat. second McLaren and local hope French- taking out a bollard with his left rear morning’s opening session on another Hamilton, who won last year’s French man Pierre Gasly in the second Red Bull. wheel as he returned to the track ahead of day of Silver Arrows supremacy. race from pole, topped the times ahead On a sweltering afternoon, with air tem- Verstappen. The Finn, who is 29 points behind of Bottas in the morning, but had a less peratures of 32 degrees Celsius and the It was a reminder of Vettel’s incident in Hamilton in the title race, clocked a fast- comfortable time in the second session track at 55, the teams struggled with tyres Montreal and may have passed through est lap in one minute and 30.937 seconds including an off -track excursion that re- and grip as the surface of the Le Castellet the Englishman’s mind as he off ered an Hannah Green hits her tee shot during the second round of the to outpace Hamilton by four-tenths of a sulted in him being called for a stewards’ track absorbed the heat. apologetic wave to the Dutchman on the Women’s PGA Championship at Hazeltine National Golf Club in second. Charles Leclerc was third fastest investigation. As in the morning, when Hamilton back straight before he pitted. Chaska, Minnesota, on Thursday. (USA TODAY Sports)

ATHLETICS GOLF ROUND-UP Asian Games gold medallist Keyhani Kaymer takes two-shot lead AFP given four-year doping ban Munich ome favourite Martin Agencies Thompson eased into the semi-fi nals of the “If I am to be honest with you, for me its Kaymer fi red a sec- Berlin 100 metres at the Jamaican trials for this just focussing on the technique... my fi rst ond-round 66 to claim year’s world championships with neither 30 metres, I’m still having some challenges a two-shot lead at the breaking a sweat on Thursday. with it,” she said. “So each race is to get bet- halfwayH stage of the European ranian steeplechaser Hossein Keyhani Fraser-Pryce logged a controlled 11.08 ter and you know once I’m able to cement Tour’s BMW International Open has been given a four-year ban for an seconds to easily win the fi rst heat on the the 30 and diff erent phases maybe at that in Munich yesterday. The two- anti-doping violation, the Athlet- opening day of the trials, while 2016 Rio time I can start thinking about times. Hon- time major champion birdied the ics Integrity Unit said yesterday. The Olympic 100 and 200 metres champion estly I don’t know what his expectations are, fi nal hole to move two strokes I29-year-old Keyhani, who won gold at the Thompson clocked 11.34. World under-20 for me the real aim right now is to make the clear of South African Christiaan 2018 Asian Games in a national and com- champion Briana Williams was the second team and take it from there. Bezuidenhout at the top of the petition record time, tested positive for the fastest qualifi er with 11.20. Fraser-Pryce won the world title in 2009, leaderboard on 11 under par for blood booster EPO. Fraser-Pryce, who had a baby in 2017, 2013 and 2015. the tournament. Keyhani can appeal the decision which is had entered the Jamaican trials for the Sept. Former men’s 100m world champion Yo- Former world number one backdated to come into eff ect from May 21, 28-Oct. 6 world championships in Qatar, han Blake, the only Jamaican man with a Kaymer is looking for his fi rst 2019. His results from April 21 this year to with the second-fasest time of the year, sub-10 second run this year, also eased into title since lifting the US Open that date have been annulled by his Asian having run 10.88 seconds in Kingston ear- the semi-fi nals as he clocked 10.19, just be- trophy in 2014. But the 34-year- Games victory remains. lier this month. The 32-year-old’s form had hind Waseem Williams’ 10.17. old German has seen an upturn in prompted coach Stephen Francis to suggest Former world record hold Asafa Powell form this season, climbing to 93 round on the back nine. Bhullar’s Burgoon, Sucher and Hughes FRASER-PRYCE, THOMPSON MAKE she was running close to her personal best of was third fastest qualifi er with 10.27. Clive in the rankings having started the short-iron shot bounced in the meanwhile all ensured their EASY PROGRESS AT TRIALS 10.70 seconds, but Fraser-Pryce said it was Pullen qualifi ed for his second world cham- year 172nd. The 322nd-ranked fringes of the green before trick- places at the top of the leader- Three-times world champion Shelly-Anne about purely about taking small steps as she pionships when he won the triple jump with Bezuidenhout carded a seven- ling forward and dropping into board after draining birdies on Fraser-Pryce and training partner Elaine focussed on the worlds in Doha. a leap of 17.02 metres. under 65 to seal a spot in the fi nal the side of the cup. He had also their fi nal holes. group for Saturday, while Fin- made an eagle at the par-fi ve 11th Of the leading pack, none was land’s Kim Koivu and Sweden’s in Thursday’s opening round, but more pleased than Burgoon, who Sebastian Soderberg sit at eight- he followed his ace with a run of has endured a nightmare 2019 SACKED FOLAU ASKS FANS TO PAY LEGAL BILLS under. Another former world three straight bogeys. which has seen him miss the cut number one, Lee Westwood, is in 10 of his 14 starts. The most Sydney: Money flooded in of breach of contract and ‘divert significant resources’ Earlier this month, Folau was just one shot further back. LEE, ANCER JOIN LEADERS recent of those came at Memo- for rugby star Israel Folau unlawful termination under the to fight me in court. I would be seeking Aus$10mn in his claim, But Sergio Garcia’s poor 2019 AT TRAVELERS CHAMPIONSHIP rial, where he failed to make the yesterday after he launched Fair Work Act, which protects very grateful for your support. including lost sponsorship and campaign continued as the South Korea’s Lee Kyoung-hoon weekend after reaching the half- a controversial crowdfunding employees from being sacked I have the fight of my life on my marketing opportunities, a sum Spaniard missed the cut by a and Mexico’s Abraham Ancer way stage at three over. campaign to pay his legal fees because of their religion. hands and every little bit will it said could bankrupt Rugby stroke despite a two-under 70. forced their way into a six-way The leading pack were one in a battle with Rugby Australia But taking on Rugby Aus- help,” he added. Australia if they lose the case. The 2017 Masters winner has tie at the top of the leaderboard shot clear of a group of six play- who sacked him for homopho- tralia in the courts will not be Folau revealed he had The fullback was on a four-year now failed to make the weekend on a low-scoring fi rst round at ers who fi nished the day on fi ve bic comments. cheap and the 30-year-old is already spent Aus$100,000 of contract worth more than in four of his last six events, and the PGA Tour’s Travelers Cham- under. They included England’s Folau, a devout Christian, asking supporters for help his own money dealing with the Aus$1.0mn annually when he only managed to fi nish tied-52nd pionship on Thursday. Paul Casey, and America’s Chez was fired last month after a to raise Aus$3mn (US$2mn), issue and suggested the case was sacked. in last week’s US Open at Pebble Lee and Ancer joined Ryan Reavie and Keegan Bradley. Rugby Australia tribunal found despite previously being one of could take years to resolve if His dismissal followed Beach. Armour, Bronson Burgoon, Zach Elsewhere on Thursday, Phil him guilty of “high-level” mis- the highest-paid players in the it ends up in the High Court. incendiary remarks about the Sucher and Canada’s Mackenzie Mickelson shrugged off his lat- conduct for posting on social world. “I believe the termina- So far, more than 3,700 people gay community in a separate INDIA’S BHULLAR HITS Hughes in the lead after card- est failed attempt to win the media that “hell awaits” gay tion of my contract is unlawful, have pledged a total of over incident last year, for which HOLE-IN-ONE ing six-under-par 64s in be- US Open at Pebble Beach with people and others he consid- which is why I have started Aus$331,000. Super Rugby’s he escaped sanction. Rugby Indian golfer Gaganjeet Bhullar nign conditions at the TPC River a three-under-par 67. Bubba ers sinners. He has since taken legal proceedings against most prolific try scorer also Australia, which had no imme- sunk a hole-in-one at the Eu- Highlands course in Cromwell, Watson, winner at the Travelers the divisive issue to Australia’s Rugby Australia and Rugby yesterday launched a Twitter diate comment on the funding ropean Tour event in Munich Connecticut. in 2010, 2015 and 2018, was fi ve employment watchdog the Fair NSW,” Folau, who played 73 hashtag #standwithizzy, asking: campaign, insist his axing was yesterday, winning a BMW car Ancer forced his way into the off the pace after posting a one- Work Commission, asserting Tests, said in a message on the “Do you believe in the right of purely a breach of contract worth 194,000 euros ($219,705) leadership picture with a superb under-par 69. Brooks Koepka, that he simply posted a mes- GoFundMe site. Australians to practice their reli- issue after it said he agreed not for his eff orts. The 31-year-old, performance down the stretch, who fi nished runner-up at Peb- sage from the Bible. His case “In response, Rugby Australia gion without fear or discrimina- to disparage anyone based on ranked 175th in the world, holed making fi ve birdies on the back ble Beach, had a testing day with reportedly involves claims have already said that they will tion in the workplace?” sexual grounds. his tee shot on the par-three 17th nine after reaching the turn at four bogeys and three birdies to hole after starting his second one under for the day. Armour, card a one-over 71. Gulf Times Saturday, June 22, 2019 7 CRICKET WORLD CUP

FOCUS West Indies still in race for Loss to Black Caps today would eff ectively end their semis, insists Holder last four hopes Ferguson revels in New Zealand’s powerful World Cup batting line-up

AFP we’ve had five wicket hauls. Manchester, United Kingdom “It’s been one of those great World Cups where batters and bowlers have been having a ew Zealand paceman really good competition.” Lockie Ferguson admit- Ferguson has the ability to Nted it is pleasing to see clock speeds up to 96mph the team’s top batsmen playing (154kph) and the 27-year-old is well ahead of their World Cup enjoying the aggressive bowl- game against West Indies in ing in the World Cup. Manchester. “I think for me if bowlers are Black Caps skipper Kane Wil- bowling over 140 I know the liamson has led by example as crowd gets behind it. It’s always his century in New Zealand’s nice to watch some good pace previous win over South Africa bowling, some good aggressive maintained their unbeaten run pace bowling in a game,” he said. in this year’s tournament. New Zealand were on the Ferguson has claimed 11 wickets New Zealand’s Lockie Ferguson. receiving end of a 421-run total in four matches, but it is the against the West Indies in a batsmen who have taken New Ferguson, who is ably compli- pre-tournament warm-up game Zealand over the finish line in mented by fellow quicks in Matt last month. their four wins so far. Henry and Trent Boult, said he But Ferguson said learning from “I think we’ve got a lot of bat- has enjoyed bowling in seaming that loss will help them at Old ters playing well on our team English conditions. Traff ord. and for a long time. But it’s nice “Look, I think we’ve been for- “For sure we’ll be taking some when Kane’s playing well, Ross tunate to have the conditions from that game, start again, (Taylor) is playing well, Gupi outside for sure,” Ferguson said. obviously score’s at zero,” said (Martin Guptill),” Ferguson told “It’s often quite suited, and I’m Ferguson. “But there’s no secret reporters yesterday. sure the wicket tomorrow will that the West Indies have a “Our top order has some experi- hopefully have a bit of pace as powerful lineup all the way ence here, and as a bowler it’s well. through. And as a bowling unit nice when they’re spending time “There’s some big runs scored, we need to learn, if they get on West Indies’ Chris Gayle (left) and Jason Holder look dejected after the loss to Bangladesh in Taunton, United Kingdom, on Monday. (Reuters) at the crease. So it’s exciting. It’s a some big hundreds. But also a roll, to shut down areas and good team to be part of.” from a bowling point of view build up pressure again.” AFP Manchester, United Kingdom WI should learn from ‘terrifi c’ Williamson: Lloyd

AFP Africa on Wednesday when Caps have a terrific captain ason Holder yesterday Manchester, United Kingdom Williamson made an unbeaten and an even more impressive claimed his struggling 106 to anchor a tense chase at batsman. West Indies are still in Edgbaston. “His innings to knock off South the hunt to qualify for the live Lloyd says the West With their hopes of reaching the Africa was absolutely master- WorldJ Cup semi-fi nals ahead of Indies should learn the semi-finals fading fast, Lloyd, the ful, one of the finest I have ever their game against unbeaten New Cart of adaptability from captain of the West Indies side seen in an ODI game. He is a Zealand in Manchester. New Zealand captain Kane Wil- that won the World Cup in 1975 fantastic reader of the game Holder will be without injured liamson as they fight to avoid and 1979, believes his country and knows how to adapt to all-rounder Andre Russell today, World Cup elimination. should take a leaf out of William- what is going on around him. but the West Indies skipper is Jason Holder’s side have son’s “masterful” knock. “The West Indies would benefit adamant his team shouldn’t be managed only one win from “The West Indies need to raise from learning a thing or two counted out yet. five matches ahead of today’s their game if they are to have from Williamson.” West Indies started the tour- game against New Zealand in a chance against New Zealand West Indies started the tourna- nament by beating Pakistan in Manchester. at Old Traff ord on Saturday,” ment by beating Pakistan in their opener but soon lost mo- The Black Caps, unbeaten in Lloyd wrote in his column their opener but soon lost mentum with defeats to Austral- the round-robin competition for the International Cricket momentum with defeats ia, England and Bangladesh. so far, are fresh from their Council. against Australia, England and Another loss would eff ec- four-wicket win over South “In Kane Williamson, the Black Bangladesh. tively end their last four hopes, but Holder says it is just a mat- ter of bringing their best game to said he is defi nitely out of the West Indies lost a close game at some point,” Holder said. the table against the Black Caps, a weekend clash, but the rest of the to Australia on June 6 and then “But, yeah, we’ve had some side who they out-played in a pre- squad in available for selection. failed to defend 321 against Bang- pretty good discussions over the tournament warm up last month. “We’ve still got a few niggles ladesh early this week. last couple of days. And tomor- “I think we still have a possible within the group. We’re trying to Holder said the team, which row is just a day to deliver.” chance to qualify for the semi- manage niggles the best we pos- skipped practice yesterday but West Indies had posted 421 in fi nals, but we’ve just got to take sibly can,” said Holder. went through a bonding exercise, their warm up against the Black it game by game,” Holder told re- “I think one guy who probably have tried to talk among them- Caps in Bristol and Holder said porters at Old Traff ord. may be defi nitely out tomorrow selves in a bid to get their act to- the performance was a testament “This encounter with New is Russell. I don’t think he’s fi t gether. of his team’s abilities. Zealand is very important. We all enough to go tomorrow. But eve- “We’ve had a few frank discus- “It just shows what we can know what’s at stake and we just rybody else should be good to go.” sions within the dressing room produce. It’s a situation where have to come and bring our ‘A’ Russell, 31, has been struggling to fi nd ways in which we can im- we’ve just got to pull on those New Zealand’s Kane Williamson hits a six on his way to 106 not out during the ICC Cricket World Cup game. It’s as simple as that.” with a chronic knee injury for the prove on. I think all teams would resources, remember the things match against South Africa at Edgbaston in Birmingham, United Kingdom, on Wednesday. (Reuters) On Russell’s fi tness, Holder last fi ve years. get themselves in that situation that we did in that game,” he said.

BOTTOMLINE SPOTLIGHT No ‘Bull’, I’m ‘Hum-bull’, says Australia’s Warner England’s Roy still

Reuters “And I couldn’t really do any- eyeing return against London thing on the fi eld and I’m at that point as well at the moment. “It’s a diff erent game. We’ve Australia at Lord’s ustralia opener Dav- played so much cricket over the id Warner was once last 12 months with a lot of diff er- arch rivals Australia at Lord’s on called ‘Bull’ for his ent people, especially the Bangla- Tuesday, an England side bid- rampaging cricket but desh guys. Getting to know a lot of ding to win the World Cup for hasA earned a new nickname at them as well has been great. the fi rst time may well decide the World Cup after returning “It just opens your eyes to a against risking Roy given they from a 12-month ball-tamper- new world. It’s just normal me are already on course to reach the ing ban — ‘Hum-bull’. now.” semi-fi nals. Warner struck a tournament- Despite scoring 166 off 147 “I’m working extremely hard. high 166 to set up Australia’s balls, Warner’s runs have not I’ve now got two days off and I’ll 48-run victory over Bangladesh come easily at times, and his have scan in a couple of days to on Thursday and now leads the watchful starts have not gone make sure everything is going in runs list with 447. unnoticed by fans more used to AFP the right direction,” Roy told BBC The 32-year-old lefthander him swinging with abandon. Leeds, United Kingdom Radio’s Test Match Special dur- has gone about his business ef- Fellow opener and captain ing England’s match against Sri fectively but quietly, avoiding Aaron Finch had been a reassur- Lanka yesterday. on-fi eld confrontations and let- ing presence and helped Warner ngland’s Jason Roy re- “It’s healing pretty well. It’s all ting his bat do the talking. grind through the diffi cult peri- mains optimistic he will good news. At the moment, I’m It has reminded fans of a simi- ods with words of patience, he be able to return to World still trying to be fi t for Australia, larly well-behaved period after said. Cup action against Aus- and then it’s got to go game by Warner got married and became “I don’t mean to go out there traliaE despite a hamstring injury game. a father in 2014, and tried to avoid and bat slow,” Warner added. that is being managed “day by “It can’t be ‘I’ll defi nitely be trouble in the wake of multiple “I got frustrated against India. day”. back for this game or that game’, code of conduct violations. I got frustrated against Afghani- The dynamic Surrey opener it’s something that we have to His team mates called him Australia’s David Warner acknowledges the crowd as he walks off after scoring 166 during the ICC Cricket stan. And then today, Finchy tore the muscle while fi elding manage day by day.” ‘The Reverend’ then but it was World Cup match against Bangladesh on Thursday. (Reuters) kept telling me to hang in there in England’s group win over the Roy hit a fi fty in England’s only a temporary deviation from and bat deep and bat time. West Indies and has been ruled opening win over South Africa ‘The Bull’, as Warner cast off his eron Bancroft, Warner’s life coach Justin Langer warned that given him a new perspective on “And that was in like the out for at least two games in- and then struck a commanding tranquil persona in 2017 to be- was turned upside-down by the they would need to learn “hu- life outside the bubble. eighth or ninth over. Because it’s cluding yesterday’s match with 153 in the host nation’s victory come more of a confrontational ball-tampering fi asco in Cape mility”, having once been the big “I think I was on a good behav- generally not my game to stick Sri Lanka at Headingley. over Bangladesh. attack dog when Joe Root’s Eng- Town. He was banned from dogs in the dressing room. iour bond for two years, I think there, and I usually try and go Roy was advised against bat- “We have the semi-fi nals and land toured Australia for the leadership roles for life within Warner said his year out of it was, if that’s what you want to after it a little bit. Must be a bit ting during a brief net practice the fi nal and all of that to play Ashes series. the Australian team. the international game and as call it, with the ICC (International more maturity, I think.” at Yorkshire’s headquarters on for,” he said. “If you look at it Like former captain Steve After he and Smith were wel- a travelling batsman in global Cricket Council),” Warner said of Australia next face England at Thursday. game by game, you can get frus- Smith and Test batsman Cam- comed back to the Australia fold, Twenty20 competitions had his time as ‘The Reverend’. Lord’s on Tuesday. Although he is keen to face trated, but I don’t do that.”

Saturday, June 22, 2019 GULF TIMES CRICKET WORLD CUP

REPORT Sri Lanka survive Stokes assault to shock England ‘Sri Lanka deserved it. Even if we had nicked it then it would have been us robbing the game’

AFP Leeds, United Kingdom Scorecard

SRI LANKA ENGLAND asith Malinga and An- gelo Mathews played key D. Karunaratne c Buttler b Archer 1 J. Vince c K Mendis b Malinga 14 roles in Sri Lanka’s stun- K. Perera c Ali b Woakes 2 J. Bairstow lbw b Malinga 0 Lning 20-run World Cup A. Fernando c Rashid b Wood 49 J. Root c K Perera b Malinga 57 win over England that revived K. Mendis c Morgan b Rashid 46 E. Morgan c and b Udana 21 the race for semi-fi nal berths at Headingley yesterday. A. Mathews not out 85 B. Stokes not out 82 England were all but out of the J. Mendis c and b Rashid 0J. Buttler lbw b Malinga 10 match after slumping to 186-9 as D. De Silva c Root b Archer 29 M. Ali c Udana b De Silva 16 they chased 233 for victory. Ben Stokes’ blistering 82 not T. Perera c Rashid b Archer 2C. Woakes c K Perera b De Silva 2 out off 89 balls, including seven I. Udana c Root b Wood 6A. Rashid c K Perera b De Silva 1 fours and fours sixes, got them to L. Malinga b Wood 1 J. Archer c T Perera b Udana 3 within sight of their target. N. Pradeep not out 1M. Wood c K Perera b Pradeep 0 But Stokes’ gamble on giving Durham teammate Mark Wood a Extras (lb4, w6) 10 Extras (lb1, w5) 6 ball to face at the end of a Nuwan Total (nine wickets, 50 overs) 232 Total (all out, 47 overs) 212 Pradeep over backfi red when the Fall of wickets: 1-3 (Karu- Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Bairstow), No 11 was caught behind as Sri naratne), 2-3 (K.Perera), 3-62 2-26 (Vince), 3-73 (Morgan), 4-127 Lanka won with three overs to (Fernando), 4-133 (K. Mendis), (Root), 5-144 (Buttler), 6-170 (Ali), spare. 5-133 (J. Mendis), 6-190 (De Silva), 7-176 (Woakes), 8-178 (Rashid), “We lost it probably more so 7-200 (T. Perera), 8-209 (Udana), 9-186 (Archer), 10-212 (Wood) with the bat than with the ball. 9-220 (Malinga) There was lack of substantial Bowling: Malinga 10-1-43-4 Bowling: Woakes 5-0-22-1, (2w), Pradeep 10-1-38-1 (2w), De partnerships. A couple of indi- Archer 10-2-52-3 (2w), Wood Silva 8-0-32-3, T.Perera 8-0-34- vidual performances nearly got 8-0-40-3 (1w), Stokes 5-0-16-0, Ali 0, Udana 8-0-41-2, J.Mendis us over the line,” England captain 10-0-40-0 (3w), Rashid 10-0-45-2, 3-0-23-0 Eoin Morgan said. Root 2-0-13-0 “Sri Lanka deserved it. Even RESULT: Sri Lanka won by 20 runs if we had nicked it then it would Sri Lanka’s Lasith Malinga (left) celebrates after taking the wicket of England’s Jos Buttler (not pictured) as latter’s teammate Ben Stokes looks on have been us robbing the game. during the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup match at Headingley in Leeds, United Kingdom, yesterday. (AFP) “It’s frustrating but we are go- ing to lose games. They are all their hopes of a last four place. — the ground where they sealed for the injured Jason Roy, then fell Stokes badly needed someone tough matches.” “It’s a long tournament and their fi rst Test series win in Eng- in familiar fashion when an edged to stay with him. But he could Victory would have seen hosts there are huge opportunities in land fi ve years ago. drive off Malinga was caught by only watch as De Silva took three England, bidding to win the every game. Australia is always “It was a close one, we were Mendis at slip. wickets for three runs in nine World Cup for the fi rst time, go a match you look to fi rst in the under pressure but it was team- Morgan, fresh from his one- balls. top of the 10-team table. World Cup fi xtures,” Morgan work in the end, all the batters day international record 17 sixes Moeen Ali marked his 100th But instead their second sur- said. and bowlers did great work,” Sri against Afghanistan, made a one-day international by hitting prise loss of the round-robin Earlier, Mathews’ painstaking Lanka captain Dimuth Karu- cautious 21, featuring a mere two a six, only to hole out irresponsi- group stage after a 14-run defeat 85 not out of 115 balls, with just naratne said. fours, before Isuru Udana held a bly off the next ball from De Silva by Pakistan, left them in third fi ve fours, helped Sri Lanka re- “With a score on the board the sharp return catch to dismiss the trying to repeat the shot. place, with Sri Lanka now just cover from a top-order collapse bowlers knew what to do on this Dubliner. In a furious assault by Stokes, two points adrift of the pre-tour- to fi nish on 232-9. wicket. The (Joe) Root wicket was Root made a patient 57 off 89 the all-rounder hit two sixes in as nament favourites. That seemed a below par total the turning point.” balls featuring just three fours. many balls off Udana, but Wood The top four at the end of the but with paceman Malinga taking But a fourth-wicket stand of was the last man to fall as Eng- fi rst phase qualify for the semi- 4-43 and off -spinner Dhanan- TOE-CRUSHING YORKER 54 with Stokes ended when Root land’s chase fell short on 212. fi nals, with England’s next match jaya de Silva following up with Malinga, renowned for his un- was caught behind down the leg- Earlier, England fast bowler against arch rivals Australia — three wickets in quick succes- orthodox ‘slingshot’ action side off Malinga, who then pro- Jofra Archer took 3-52 to join the table-toppers and reigning sion, it proved more than enough dismissed Jonny Bairstow for a duced a trademark toe-crushing Australia’s Mitchell Starc as the champions — at Lord’s on Tues- as Sri Lanka enjoyed another golden duck. yorker to have dangerman Jos leading bowler at this World Cup Sri Lanka’s Angelo Mathews scored an unbeaten 85 in the match day now even more important to memorable day at Headingley James Vince (14), deputising Buttler lbw. with 15 wickets. against England yesterday. (AFP)

SPOTLIGHT India won’t lower guard against mauled Rashid: Shankar

Naib wants Afghanistan to get more exposure to top-level cricket

AFP Southampton, United Kingdom

fghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib has called Aon cricket’s top teams to play more matches against his country in future to aid their development. Naib’s side have lost all five of their matches at the current World Cup ahead of today’s clash with title contenders India in Southampton. The minnows are competing in Afghan captain Gulbadin Naib. their second World Cup, with some critics claiming they have their remaining four matches, failed to progress since their ap- Naib believes his country’s pres- pearance in Australia and New ence at the World Cup is proof Zealand four years ago. of their progress. The Afghans beat Scotland in “If you look at the last World the last World Cup but have lost Cup, we played five, six games. to Australia, Sri Lanka, New Zea- Now here we’re playing nine land, South Africa and England games and each team. So in the 2019 tournament. Afghanistan’s Mohamed Nabi (left) and teammate Rashid Khan there’s much diff erence,” he Naib insists he is still proud of prepare to bowl in the nets during a training session at the Rose said. his team’s eff orts and sees signs Bowl in Southampton, United Kingdom, yesterday. (AFP) “So you can face diff erent kinds they are headed in the right of teams and diff erent kind direction. “We want to improve our experi- good cricket with this kind of of conditions and pitches. We But to develop enough to take ence, so we should play against team, maybe it’s a great experi- learned a lot of things the last on the game’s big guns, Naib the good teams like India, Aus- ence, especially for the team four or five games. is convinced Afghanistan must tralia, South Africa, Pakistan. and for the boys.” “Now everyone knows Afghani- be given more regular matches “If you’re targeting the top five Afghanistan’s only genuine stan is growing team in the India’s Vijay Shankar (centre) celebrates with captain Virat Kohli (right) after the dismissal of Pakistan’s against the likes of India and or top six teams, we should play chance of a win so far in this world cricket. Now for me it’s a Imam-ul-Haq (not pictured) during the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup match in Manchester on Sunday. (AFP) World Cup holders Australia. a lot with them. If we play with World Cup came in a rain- proud moment that we’re in top “Sure, we want (that) also. If you them, maybe Afghanistan will aff ected game against Sri Lanka ten teams. Reuters “Every day is diff erent, and Shankar, who shares the Sun- look, we’re not playing against be losing the matches, or we when they were unable to chase “We are here. It’s a high ranking Southampton, United Kingdom every wicket is diff erent. You can- risers Hyderabad dressing room the other teams, our squad, will be struggling, but one day a revised target of 187. tournament. It’s a World Cup. not take things for granted,” all- with Rashid in the Indian Pre- but we do very well,” Naib told Afghanistan will be diff erent. Regardless of whether or not We cannot say that everything rounder Shankar told reporters at mier League, said he had tried to reporters yesterday. “So it’s good for us, so if we play Afghanistan manage a win in is an easy out.” ndia are not underestimating the Hampshire Bowl yesterday. read the wily 20-year-old spin- the threat Rashid Khan poses “Tomorrow might be a com- ner at nets. even after he was mauled by pletely diff erent scenario where “He’s defi nitely one of the him in the nets, I try and pick his earned him a promotion against at number six or seven. It’s not the Tamil Nadu player. England in his previous out- we’ll have to target him, or we best bowlers right now in lim- variations. Pakistan. about taking that extra pressure. “The last game gave me some Iing, all-rounder Vijay Shankar might have to play off . So it is just ited overs, and he has done well,” “He’s a good bowler. Any- Shankar denied feeling under It’s about taking extra responsi- confi dence, and especially play- said ahead of today’s World Cup about adapting ourselves to dif- Shankar said about the poster one can go for runs any day. It is pressure to match Pandya’s pow- bility and delivering it at the right ing against Pakistan, making my match against Afghanistan. ferent situations as quickly as we boy of Afghan cricket, who tops about how we come back strong. er-hitting. time for the team.” debut against them,” he said. Rashid returned 9-0-110- can.” the list of T20 bowlers and is So for me, it is about how I play “The pressure will always be Shankar made a memorable “I always look to get better in 0, the worst bowling fi gures in Most of the Indian batsmen are ranked third in the ODI list. against him tomorrow. That will to deliver whatever the situation World Cup debut against Paki- all three aspects of the game as I World Cup history, against Eng- comfortable against the turning “Having played with him for a be the key.” demands. So it’s not about how stan, claiming the fi rst of his two know I can keep getting better. I land after home captain Eoin ball and will hope to dominate couple of years, it’s very impor- Shankar was picked to bat at powerful,” he said. wickets with his maiden delivery know I can bowl a lot better than Morgan clobbered him for seven the spin-heavy Afghan attack led tant for me to pick things from number four but Hardik Pan- “I’ve also played down the and scoring 15 not out. what I am bowling even now, so sixes at Old Traff ord. by leg-spinner Rashid. him, like whenever I bat against dya’s better ball-striking ability order. I’ve also got runs playing The best is yet to come, said I’m just working on my bowling.”