SPORT SPORTS | 05 SPORT | 06 SainzSainz to succeed Sachin Tendulkar VettelVette at and bat-maker as RicciardoRicc heads Spartan settle tot McLaren Australian lawsuit

FRIDAY 15 MAY 2020 Sensational Al Rayyan Stadium almost ready for action

An aerial view of the brand new Al Rayyan Stadium that will host matches of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. One of the country's biggest shopping centers - the Mall of Qatar - is also seen. PICTURE: / @ ROADTO2022 Qatar joins World Rugby as Associate Member

THE PENINSULA – DOHA World Rugby unanimously continuing commitment to grow of the Executive and Regional approved the Qatar Rugby Fed- and diversify the global game we Committees to accept the three In a landmark decision for rugby eration’s (QRF) application, are delighted to welcome Qatar, unions as associate members, fans in the country, Qatar which was submitted a while ago Jordan and Turkey as associate after each demonstrated the nec- yesterday became part of the to obtain its membership after it members of World Rugby, three essary governance criteria. World Rugby (WR) as an Asso- had fulfilled all the requirements unions who have an exciting Turkey has a growing rugby ciate Member. and conditions set by the game’s rugby appetite and potential.” following with the latest Nielsen Qatar was joined by Jordan ruling body. He added: “Being part of the fan-sizing research demon- and Turkey to become part of the The members of the world member of World Rugby. With rugby family will accelerate strating more than nine million international rugby family that body reviewed the Qatari file in 40 years of rugby in Qatar, this rugby’s growth in these countries people are either interested or now has swelled to 127 member detail and assessed the soaring recognition will support the by providing them with continuous very interested in the sport. nations. popularity of the sport in Qatar. game’s growth in our country support and a solid framework to Jordan has a thriving Qatar has been making rapid QRF President Yousef Jaham and hopefully improve our com- develop the three unions in a sus- women’s game and the men’s strides in events held across Asia Al Kuwari said: “On behalf of the petitiveness on the international tainable and efficient way.” team made their international 15s since the country’s first rugby club Qatar Rugby Federation and all stage.” Yesterday’s decision was debut in 2010. Jordan also holds was established in 1974. Qatar’s rugby players and fans in the In a separate statement, announced after WR’s supreme the record for the lowest-ever maiden international represen- country, we are pleased and hon- World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill decision-making body approved rugby match, played at 400 Qatar Rugby Federation tation took place in 2006. oured to become an associate Beaumont said: “As part of our the recommendation metres below sea level. President Yousef Al Kuwari Hamilton tops sportspersons’ Bayern still the team to beat rich list of UK – LONDON as Bundesliga set to resume Six-time world champion is the AP – DÜSSELDORF for much of the fall and is still richest sportsperson in the United only six points behind Bayern Kingdom with a net worth of £224m The coronavirus pandemic has Bundesliga to in fourth place. Hopes have ($275.6m), according to The Sunday changed almost everything faded of a first Bundesliga title Times newspaper’s Rich List. about soccer in , use five subs since 1977, but qualifying for Hamilton, who signed a new con- except Bayern Munich’s next season’s Champions REUTERS – DÜSSELDORF tract with Mercedes in 2018 worth up chances of winning. League would be a coup for a to £40m a year, saw his net worth rise The seven-time defending team operating on a smaller by £37m over the last year. champions are still the team to The Bundesliga will allow clubs to budget than those around it. Rory McIlroy, who returned to beat. When the Bundesliga make up to five substitutions per Gladbach and coach Marco the top of golf’s world rankings in resumes tomorrow after a two- match when it restarts after the coro- Rose return to action against February for the first time since month suspension caused by navirus stoppage, while teams will Eintracht Frankfurt tomorrow. 2015, is the only other sportsperson the pandemic, Borussia be relegated provided the season is Bayer Leverkusen is aiming to feature on the main Rich List with Dortmund and Leipzig will be completed, the German Football to spoil Gladbach’s party and a net worth of £170m. Bayern’s main challengers. League (DFL) said yesterday. snatch the fourth and last Wales football player Gareth The match between local Short-term venue changes will Champions League spot. Bale, who earns £350,000 per rivals Dortmund and Schalke also be permitted if health reasons Beating Werder Bremen on week after tax at Real Madrid, has - the highest-profile of the first dictate such a need and the season Monday is crucial for a net worth of £114m and is the day’s games - would normally will continue beyond its re-scheduled Leverkusen to build some richest sportsperson aged 30 or be a sea of yellow and blue, finish date of June 30 and into July if momentum. under. The Young Rich List is dom- with ear-splitting chants and necessary, the DFL said following a Some of Germany’s tradi- inated by sports personalities who elaborate pre-game displays general assembly. The DFL became tional powerhouses are account for 18 of the 50 places, with in the stands. the first major league to implement struggling. world heavyweight boxing champion But tomorrow the stands the change which is designed to help FC Bayern players wearing protective masks arriving Werder is fighting rele- Anthony Joshua the only non-foot- will be empty and the coaches teams cope with fixture congestion at a training ground in Unterschleissheim near Munich, gation in 17th place, while baller to make the cut. Joshua earned on the sidelines will be wearing as they rush to complete the season. Germany, yesterday. Hertha Berlin is in 13th after an an estimated £78m from his two masks. erratic season that includes a fights with Andy Ruiz Jr last year, The unprecedented sus- 10-game spell under former US taking his net worth to £107m. pension has put every team in is talking up the team’s desire. “top fitness” and ready to take has built the team - national team coach Jürgen uncharted territory. There’s no As long as the coronavirus on Union Berlin on Sunday, which didn’t exist until 2009 - Klinsmann, who left abruptly RICHEST YOUNG SPORT recent form or friendly games pandemic doesn’t suspend the Bayern coach Hansi Flick said into a title contender and in February. Hertha has sus- STARS IN UK to go on, and players will have season again, the title race last week. Borussia Dortmund earned the scorn of many pended forward Salomon (AGED 30 OR UNDER) to shake off weeks of rust. could come down to three for- is four points behind in second German fans who reject the Kalou after he posted a video Some teams - notably wards. Bayern’s Robert place with nine games to go. “new money” squad from the showing social-distancing 1. Gareth Bale (Football) £114m Bayern - have brought injured Lewandowski, Borussia Dort- Dortmund was playing well eastern part of the country. measures being flouted at the 2. Anthony Joshua (boxing) £107m players back to health, while mund’s Erling Haaland and when the league was sus- Werner has 21 goals in 25 club. The second division is 3. Paul Pogba (Football) £50m Dortmund is without several Leipzig’s Timo Werner have all pended but has players injured. league games but was off-form also resuming this weekend, 4= Kevin de Bruyne (Football) £34m key starters because of injuries. been crucial to their team’s Emre Can and Axel Witsel will in February and March. Leipzig with former European 4= David de Gea (Football) £34m Bayern is the German challenges with explosive both miss the Schalke game, takes on Freiburg tomorrow. champion Hamburg and 6. Raheem Sterling (Football) £28m league’s biggest and richest scoring form. leaving a hole in central mid- Even before the corona- Stuttgart both battling to get 7. N’Golo Kante (Football) £25m team. Failing to win the league The Bundesliga’s two- field and questions about how virus pandemic made this back to the Bundesliga. Last- 8. Harry Kane (Football) £24m would be a disaster for a club month break came just as to get the ball to Haaland and season unlike any other, place Dynamo Dresden’s 9. Daniel Sturridge (Football) £2m which prides itself on success Lewandowski, who leads the Jadon Sancho up front. Borussia Mönchengladbach return to action has been 10. Jordan Henderson (Football) to a degree that rivals often league with has 25 goals in as Leipzig is one point behind was having a year to delayed because two players £21m consider arrogant. many games, was out with a Dortmund in third place. Cash remember. tested positive for the Midfielder Thomas Mueller shin injury. Now he is back at from energy drink company Gladbach lead the league coronavirus. FRIDAY 15 MAY 2020 SPORT 05

CARLOS SAINZ JR. Sainz to succeed Vettel at Ferrari AFP – MILAN Five facts about Carlos Sainz, who will replace four-time Formula One world champion at Ferrari in as Ricciardo heads to McLaren 2021: AFP – PARIS talks over a new contract broke Spaniard Carlos Sainz, 25, in 2011. RACING IN THE BLOOD: Carlos Sainz Jr down. will leave McLaren following He drove for Red Bull’s junior team is the son of ’s two-time world rally Spanish driver Carlos Sainz Jr. will Sainz, whose father, also Carlos, the 2020 season to partner Toro Rosso in 2012 and 2013 before champion Carlos Sainz, who won a third replace four-time Formula One is a two-time world rally champion, 22-year-old making the jump to the flagship Red Dakar Rally in January. His uncle Antonio world champion Sebastian Vettel at has previously driven for Red Bull’s at Ferrari, forming the team’s Bull team in 2014. He finished third in Sainz was also a rally driver. Ferrari next season, while Daniel feeder team Toro Rosso and the drivers’ standings in 2014 and Madrid-born Sainz started his career youngest pairing in the past Ricciardo has signed a “multi-year” before impressing with McLaren last 2016. like most racing drivers in karting, deal with McLaren from 2021. season. 50 years. However, he failed to muster a winning the Junior Kart Cup in Sainz, 25, will leave McLaren fol- He secured the once all-con- single top-three finish in a disap- 2009, moving on to Formula 3, before lowing the 2020 season to partner quering British team’s first podium Australian pointing first season at Renault. coming through the tough selection 22-year-old Charles Leclerc at place in almost six years in Brazil last will drive for McLaren next Ricciardo’s exit at Renault could process for the in Ferrari, forming the team’s youngest year. season when he takes over open the door for to 2015. pairing in the past 50 years. Signing Sainz will also end any lin- the seat left vacant by Sainz. reunite with the team he won world “With five seasons already gering speculation about six-time titles with in 2005 and 2006, although FOUR TEAMS IN FIVE YEARS: Sainz has behind him, Carlos has proved to be champion Lewis Hamilton leaving He will line up alongside they are reportedly keen to find an in- competed for four different teams in five very talented and has shown that he Mercedes for Ferrari. Britain’s , 20, in house replacement. years -- Toro Rosso, Renault, McLaren, has the technical ability and the right “I am very happy that I will be 2021 after he leaves Renault Alonso, 38, quit F1 in 2018 but and now Ferrari -- always bringing home attributes to make him an ideal fit driving for in 2021 at the end of this season. hasn’t ruled out a return to the sport. useful points. with our family,” Ferrari team boss and I’m excited about my future with Vettel’s future meanwhile remains He made his Formula One debut in said in a statement the team,” said Sainz, who is expected uncertain. 2015 with Toro Rosso alongside Max Ver- yesterday. to play a supporting role 2021 after he leavesleaves RenaultRenault atat the end After the first 10 races of the coro- stappen, before joining Renault in 2017, “We’ve embarked on alongside Leclerc. of this season. navirus-hit 2020 campaign were moving on to McLaren in 2019. a new cycle with the Australian Ricciardo “DanielDaniel is a proven racerace-winner winner either cancelled or ppostpopostponed, ed, oorgan- ga So far he has raced 102 Grands Prix aim of getting back will drive for McLarenn and his experience,experience, commitment and isers hope to start thethe highlighted by a sixth-place finish in the to the top in next season when hee energy will be a valuable addition seasonseasoon in Austria with first year at McLaren last season, under- Formula 1. It takes over the seatt to McLaren and our mission back-to-backback--to-back races on lining his consistent growth. will be a long left vacant by Sainz.Sainz. to return to the front of the Julyy 5 anandd 1212.. journey,journey, not Ricciardo, 30, field,” said McLaren team F1F1 chief Chase  ENDS MCLAREN DROUGHT: Sainz withoutwithout itsits dif-dif- will line up principal . CCareyarey lastlast weekweek delivered McLaren’s first podium in five ficulties,” he alongalongsideside BritBrit-- “With Daniel and insistedinsisted a 15-1815-18 years with third in Brazil last year, added, ain’s Lando Lando as teammates, race season waswas awarded retrospectively, after a sensa- referring to the Norris, 20, inn I believebelieve we havehave two stillstill possipossible,ble, bbutut tional comeback from 20th and last on additional chalchal-- racers who will concon-- he admitted that the grid. lenges created by tinue to exciteexcite our fans all scenariosscenarios areare After a five-race point-scoring streak the coronavirus and help the team grow.” onon the table from France to Hungary, he finished the pandemic. Ricciardo has won “inc“includingluding tthehe 2019 championship with 96 points and “We believe that sevens raceracess and remote possibilitypossibility in sixth place. a driver pairing with recorrerrecordedded 29 podpodiumium ofof no racing in the talent and personality finfinisfiffinishesi hes ssinceince his FF11 2020”.2020”.  SPEAKS ITALIAN FLUENTLY: Sainz of Charles and Carlos... will be debut with the should have no problem settling in at the best possible combi-combi- HRT team Maranello as he speaks fluent Italian, nation to help us reach thethee at thethe perfected during his karting days. goals we have set our-our- The Spaniard lived for three years selves.” SainzSainz with Italians while at Toro Rosso, whose emerged in pole headquarters are in Faenza, like Ferrari position to also based in the Emilia Romagna succeed region. Vettel at Maranello THIRD SPANIARD AT FERRARI: Sainz after the becomes the third Spaniard to drive for GermanGerman the ‘’ after former announcedannounced two-time world champion Fernando TuesdayTuesday he Alonso from 2010-2014 and Alfonso de was quittingquitting Portago briefly in 1956-1957. Carlos Sainz Jr. Ferrari after Daniel Ricciardo Sainz is an ‘ideal fit’ for Ferrari DANIEL RICCIARDO AFP - PARIS REUTERS – LONDON McLaren’s Carlos Sainz Jr. in action during Formula One pre season RED BULL PRODUCT: Like Carlos Sainz, whose move to Ferrari led The talk was of luring six- testing at the Circuit de Barcelona- to the McLaren vacancy, Ricciardo is a product of the Red Bull driver times world champion Lewis Catalunya in Barcelona, Spain in academy. He drove for Red Bull’s junior Formula One team Toro Hamilton from Mercedes to this February 28 file photo. Rosso in 2012 and 2013, having made his F1 debut at the British Grand Ferrari but in the end it was Prix when loaned to the HRT team in 2011. He switched to the flagship Carlos Sainz, a driver yet to Red Bull team in 2014 and has since won seven races and recorded win anything in Formula One, 29 podium finishes. He finished third in the drivers’ standings in 2014 who signed on the dotted line. and 2016. The 25-year-old was con- firmed yesterday on a two- RENAULT GAMBLE: He stunned the paddock by ditching Red Bull year deal as the replacement after five years for a “fresh start” and a lucrative two-year deal at for four-times world champion Renault. Sebastian Vettel when the “It was probably one of the most difficult decisions to take in German departs the Italian my career so far,” he said at the time. The move to once mighty team at the end of the year. McLaren, emerging on the evidence of last season at least out of Ferrari believe the their slumber, looks less of a risk. Dashingly brilliant at his best he Spaniard, who has just one will be hoping the British team can provide him with the power to podium finish from 102 races become a serious title contender and fulfil his ambition of being the but can now expect to win a driver whose career has gone It proved to be the making been remarkably free of first Australian world champion since Alan Jones in 1980. some, will be an ideal partner through twists and turns off of him, Sainz finishing sixth friction, with the pair winning for Charles Leclerc as the team track as well as on it. overall last season and the plenty of admirers. ITALIAN PEDIGREE: Ricciardo was born in , but Italy is close plot a long-overdue return to He joined Red Bull-owned highest driver from outside the While Vettel was paid a to heart. His father Giuseppe moved from Ficarra to Australia aged the top. Toro Rosso, now AlphaTauri, top three teams. reported $40m a year, Sainz seven, while his mum is first-generation Italian. Ricciardo moved to “Carlos has proved to be in 2015 alongside a then “Carlos is a true profes- will get a fraction of that -- a Italy as a teenager in pursuit of his motor racing dream, and speaks very talented and has shown 17-year-old sional, a pleasure to work with relief to Ferrari even if drivers’ the language. that he has the technical who was already the energy and we will continue to enjoy salaries are not included in a ability and the right attributes drink brand’s favourite and going racing with him this budget cap due to come into HONEY BADGER: Lurking behind his beaming smile and Aussie- to make him an ideal fit with hailed as a future world year,” said McLaren principal force next year. Italian charm lies a... honey badger. His nickname, an image of which our family,” said Ferrari prin- champion. Andreas Seidl. “We’ve embarked on a new he has had adorned to the back of his helmet, is well earned. cipal Mattia Binotto. In 2018, passed over for a Those same qualities will cycle with the aim of getting The move into one of the seat with the main Red Bull be valued at Ferrari, where back to the top in Formula THE COMPLETE ATHLETE: "That was just unbelievable," purred Red most coveted seats at the most team and eager to move on, Leclerc may look like the main One,” said Binotto. Bull boss after Ricciardo's 2018 glamorous and successful Sainz was loaned to Renault for man but cannot rest on his “It will be a long journey, success from pole despite losing a quarter of his engine's power. team in the sport’s history puts a year with uncertainty beyond laurels at a team hungry for a not without its difficulties, espe- "He just managed it like he was on a Sunday afternoon drive. the Spaniard in the company that. first title since the 2008 con- cially given the current financial Daniel is the complete article now. You can hear his composure in of greats, even if he will surely He ended up at McLaren in structors’ crown. and regulatory situation, which the car, when something goes wrong there is no panic, no raising never match the achievements 2019 when compatriot Sainz is a team player, sure is undergoing a sudden change of his voice. He worked it out and I cannot praise him enough." of a or Fernando Alonso departed and of his abilities and with plenty and will require this challenge McLaren will be happy to see the complete article driving their car . Australian Daniel Ricciardo of pace. The partnership with to be tackled in a different way in 2021. It is quite a turnaround for turned down the opportunity. Lando Norris at McLaren has to the recent past.” Tour of Britain called off Possible Tyson return raises questions for promoter REUTERS – LONDON REUTERS – LONDON and has said he was consid- all-time great? There’s a fine This year’s Tour of Britain scheduled for September has been British promoter Eddie Hearn ering exhibition bouts to raise line and I’ve crossed it a couple cancelled and the same route will be used for the 2021 edition, says he would probably like to money for charity. of times -- between integrity organisers said yesterday. see former heavyweight “I would probably like to of the sport and entertainment “The decision has been taken in light of the ongoing situ- champion fight see it but ... is it a bit irrespon- delivering numbers. Our job is ation with the COVID-19 pandemic, which makes continuing again but has questioned sible to let a 53-year-old legend to deliver numbers for broad- with the planning and organisation of the 2020 race imprac- whether boxing should be back in the ring?” Hearn told casters but we have to keep it tical,” a statement said. encouraging a 53-year-old to British Boxing Television. as close to the right mark as we The high-profile race which attracts crowds of 1.5 million get back in the ring. “I had a message from can.” spectators was won last year by Dutchman Mathieu van der Tyson, who became the someone saying they wanted Former heavyweight Poel. youngest heavyweight to talk to me about Mike. He champion This year’s route would have taken the peloton through champion of all time when he looks pretty dangerous. What’s has also released a training Cornwall for the first time and would have finished in beat Trevor Berbick in 1986 compelling is could he actually video on social media, fuelling Aberdeen. aged 20, caught the attention go back in at 53 and do some speculation that he could come Organisers ruled out holding their Tour without spectators, of the boxing world by posting damage? But should we be out of retirement to face one- Mike saying it would go against what the race stands for. The pro- training videos on Instagram encouraging that from an time rival Tyson. Tyson visional dates for the 2021 event are September 5-12. 06 SPORT FRIDAY 15 MAY 2020 Giles vows England training Let my family down: Warne opens up on will be safer than shopping past controversies IANS - MELBOURNE AFP - LONDON England's Jos Buttler is seen during nets at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, Former Australia cricketer ’s career was similar England managing director New Zealand , in this November 20, to two sides of a coin -- one where he shone the brightest on Ashley Giles said initial plans 2019 file photo. the cricket field and the other where it was filled with contro- announced yesterday to get the versies. country’s leading cricketers The second highest wicket-taker in Tests, recently, opened back training should be safer up regarding the dark aspect of his game and conceded he let than going to a supermarket. his family down because of his actions. But the former England From testing positive for a banned substance to war of words spinner added that were inter- with former captains Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting to several national matches to take place alleged affairs, Warne made headlines for all the wrong reasons amid the coronavirus it was during the course of his illustrious career. “not realistic” for players to “I’m not proud of all of my decisions. I made some horrible spend 10 weeks in squad quar- mistakes and choices with things. But I was always true to myself antine away from their and that’s what I’m proud of today,” Warne said during the show families. ‘A Week with Warnie’ on Fox Cricket. The pandemic has delayed “Some of the things were really hard to take. I let my family the start of the English cricket down, I embarrassed my children ... but that’s something I have season until July 1 at the to live with. earliest. “But for all of those bad choices I’ve also been very proud of But the England and Wales all the good things I’ve done. I’ve done a lot of good things but Cricket Board are still planning sometimes people like to harp on about the bad things because to stage a full home interna- it’s a better headline,” he added. tional programme starting with Warne stated he was a bit arrogant during his early days in a three-Test series against the the sport and his philosophy of living in the moment got him West Indies, originally, a coach and physio in normal with saliva and sweat ECB chief executive Tom into trouble most of the time. scheduled for June, now set to attendance. on health grounds. Harrison has warned a season “I think some of my actions in the mid 90s and towards the get underway in July. “This is individual-based “How are we going to stop without any matches at all end of the late 90s -- I acted in a sort of arrogant, pretty ordinary Three more Tests against training so in many ways we Jimmy Anderson walking back could cost the board £380m fashion all the time,” Warne said. Pakistan follow, as well as lim- should be able to get control of to his mark touching his ($463m). “I live in the moment so sometimes you don’t think about ited-overs matches with Aus- the environment right so it’s forehead for example and then “We are a business like eve- the consequences and that was probably most of my trouble. I tralia and Ireland. safer to go back to practice than the ball? It’s going to be tricky ryone else,” said Giles. didn’t think what the consequences were or what effect it would Wednesday saw the British it is to go to the supermarket,” to break those habits.” “Businesses across the have on other people. government publish guidelines Giles told reporters in a con- Plans are being drawn up to world are suffering right now “It was a selfish thing. I did what I wanted to do, and that got on how elite sportsmen and ference call yesterday. play matches at ‘bio-secure’ and we have got to try and do me into a bit of trouble.” women could return to training. Cricket West Indies chief venues with grounds such as our bit to protect the business,” Warne said his famous 'Ball of the Century' to England The ECB have responded by executive Johnny Grave told the Hampshire’s Ageas Bowl and he said. batsman Mike Gatting in the 1993 Ashes series as the moment selecting a still-to-be BBC there would be “no reportedly Giles added that while his life changed irrevocably - for better and worse. announced training squad of 30 coercing players into touring, favoured because they have countries were all “fighting our Warne said his inability to block out the white noise from players, with bowlers leading adding a UK death toll of more on-site hotels. own fires” at the moment, the media, affected the way he lived his life. the way at seven grounds from than 30,000 from the virus was But Giles stressed players global cooperation would be “I didn’t really understand how it worked when I had to read Wednesday of next week. a “massive figure” if you grew would not be locked down in needed amid doubts over Octo- these things about myself that weren’t true which was quite After a two-week period, up in Caribbean country where camp for over two months, with ber’s Twenty20 World Cup in tough to take,” he says. once the bowlers have reached that might represent half the the likes of England captain Joe Australia and cricket’s future “You don’t want to spend your life worrying about that stuff, but their desired loading efforts, total population. Root set to become a father tours programme. I did. I worried. I was like, ‘that’s not what I’m like’. So I found that I batsmen and wicketkeepers “I would be nervous, cer- again in that time. “We are worried about didn’t understand how it (the media) worked and I resented it. will start their programmes, tainly,” said Giles. “But we are “We have a good bunch of getting our own deals done. It’s “And I think some of my actions in the mid 90s and towards with 11 venues in all set to host doing everything we possibly players, but it isn’t realistic to the same in Australia and India the end of the late 90s — I acted in a sort of arrogant, pretty training sessions. can to answer all of the West expect them to be in a bubble and everywhere else around the ordinary fashion all the time. By starting with the bowlers, Indies’ questions. “We will be for 10 weeks,” said Giles. world. “I live in the moment so sometimes you don’t think about England’s attack should have speaking to Pakistan as well “Testing, tracing and “But in the future it will be the consequences and that was probably most of my trouble. I seven weeks to get overs under and mitigating as much risk as tracking will have changed a important we work together didn’t think what the consequences were or what effect it would the belts before the rescheduled we possibly can.” hell of a lot by then and that and there is a united front have on other people. first Test. Giles admitted, however, it should help us. Otherwise we because we are not going to “It was a selfish thing. I did what I wanted to do, and that got Players will train individ- would be difficult to prevent are going to have to be smart play without sides giving a bit me into a bit of trouble,” Warne said. ually on a staggered basis with bowlers shining the ball as with selection.” to each other.” Pakistan’s tour to Ireland England Tendulkar and Spartan for T20Is postponed cricketers

IANS - LAHORE to resume settle Australian lawsuit IANS - NEW DELHI Tendulkar in the lawsuit against agreement and is grateful for The Pakistan Cricket Board and Cricket Ireland yestersday decided a number of Spartan companies Tendulkar’s patience in resolving to postpone their two-T20I series in July after the Ireland training Sachin Tendulkar (pictured) has and their directors, Kunal this dispute. The Spartan com- Government announced behind closed-door matches can only settled his lawsuit in the Federal Sharma and Les Galbraith, panies also publicly acknowledge be possible after August 10. next week Circuit Court of Australia with included claims of breach of con- that Tendulkar has had no asso- This date coincides with Pakistans tour to England for three Australian bat-maker, the tract, misleading and deceptive ciation with Spartan since 17 Sep- Tests and as many T20Is for which the side is scheduled to depart IANS - LONDON Spartan Sports group of conduct and sought injunctions, tember 2018, when Tendulkar late July. companies and its directors. damages as well as cancellation terminated their sponsorship The matches in Dublin were planned for July 12 and 14. In what would be a first step In 2016, Tendulkar entered of trade marks featuring Ten- agreement.” PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan said: “It is sad that due the towards returning to action, into a worldwide exclusive spon- dulkar’s silhouette performingerforming current Covid-19 pandemic, we have to postpone our tour to England cricketers will start sorship agreement with one of his signature square cutut which Ireland. We were looking forward to returning to the venue, where individual training next week the Spartan companies to were registered by anotherother we featured against Ireland in their inaugural Test in 2018, and amid the COVID-19 promote Spartans sporting goods Spartan company. country where our players have always been supported and pandemic which has brought and sportswear. As part of the set-et- admired by the friendly and knowledgeable fans. the world to a standstill. Tendulkar alleged that the tlement, a number of thehe “We fully respect and endorse CI’s decision at this difficult “These are very tentative Spartan company failed to Spartan companies haveve time. As we have all reiterated, the safety and security of players, steps to returning to play,” comply with its obligations under submitted to judgmentnt officials and fans comes first. It remains a challenging time for all said England director of the agreement by failing to pay against them and thehe nations that are due to be hosting home series in the coming cricket Ashley Giles as him royalties and endorsement Spartan group is perma-ma- months; we as a cricketing family will continue to rally and work quoted by BBC. fees as per the agreement signed nently restrained by courtcourt closely together. The BBC report further by both parties and continued to orders from using Tendulkar’sdulkar’s “The PCB stands firmly with CI in these difficult times and we said that bowlers will have use his name and image even name, image and likenessikeness look forward to revisiting Ireland as soon as normal services sessions at various county after terminating the agreement. including to falsely suggestgest any resume.” grounds with a coach, physio Tendulkar provided his pro- endorsement by Sachin Cricket Ireland Chief Executive Warren Deutrom said: “With and, if possible, a strength motional services at various Tendulkar. the Irish Government announcement on 1 May regarding the and conditioning coach Spartan events in both Mumbai Spartan has also cancelledcancelled gradual process of lifting restrictions here in Ireland, it unfortu- present. Other players will and London, including to the registered trademarksarks filed nately became impossible to host the Pakistan T20Is in Dublin return to practice two weeks promote the “Sachin by Spartan” featuring Tendulkar’slkar’s on the scheduled dates." later. line of products and he was silhouette. The England and Wales unable to pursue other spon- Les Galbraith, on behalfehalf Cricket Board (ECB) has been sorship opportunities for sporting of Spartan, stated: “Spartanartan working closely with the goods and sportswear while the sincerely apologises to Ten-Ten- Du Plessis backs double government in order to Spartan agreement was in place. dulkar for its failuree to churn out a plan to safely The claims made by honour his sponsorshipship resume cricket amid the quarantine to save Cup global pandemic. All cricketing activities in AFP - DHAKA England have been sus- West Indies players will not be pended since mid-March due Former South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis said quarantining to the outbreak of novel players for two weeks before and after the Twenty20 World Cup coronavirus. forced to tour England: Chief could allow it to take place in Australia this year despite the coro- And the ECB has already navirus pandemic. The tournament is due to be played in October- said that all professional AFP - LONDON players into this tour,” Grave told would depend on whether it was November but there is uncertainty after the cancellation of other cricket activities will remain BBC Radio. deemed safe. major sporting events. Some countries have also grounded inter- suspended until July 1. West Indies cricketers will not “If you grow up in a country “The ECB (England and national flights. The entire cricket cal- be “coerced” into touring where the population might only Wales Cricket Board) have got a “I read that travelling is going to be an issue for lots of coun- endar across the world has England if they are reluctant to be 60,000 or 70,000 people, to long way to go to get UK gov- tries,” du Plessis said during a live conversation on Facebook come to a grinding halt do so during the coronavirus be thinking the UK has had over ernment approval to be abso- with Bangladeshi opener Tamim Iqbal late on Wednesday. because of the coronavirus crisis, according to West Indies 30,000 deaths is a massive lutely certain that bio-secure “Obviously Australia is not affected like other countries, but pandemic with many series chief executive Johnny Grave. figure.” cricket will work,” he said. to get people from Bangladesh, South Africa or India where there and tournaments, including The Caribbean side are due The England and Wales Grave admitted that with is more danger with the virus, obviously it’s a health risk to them. the lucrative Indian Premier to travel to play a three-Test Cricket Board (ECB) is consid- West Indies players coming from “But you can actually go in before the tournament (for) two League, being suspended. series, which has been postponed ering the use of bio-secure different islands that have dif- weeks’ isolation and then play the tournament and afterwards, UK Prime Minister Boris until July at the earliest. venues and quarantining ferent levels of restrictions due two weeks’ isolation.” Johnson had on Sunday Grave said a “wide pool” of players. to the virus, getting them onto The game’s governing body, the International Cricket Council, informed that the lockdown players had been consulted and Matches would likely be one plane would be a challenge on Tuesday postponed qualifiers for next year’s women’s World will be in place at least until none of them would be obliged staged behind closed doors. but not “insurmountable”. Cup and the 2022 Under-19 World Cup. June 1. to tour. Grave said he was optimistic the “The players would be very Both were due to be held in July. “There will be no coercing series would go ahead but that much in a bubble,” said Grave. FRIDAY 15 MAY 2020 SPORT 07

Klopp delivers Zoom surprise Italian Olympic chief sees ‘99% to fans in isolation chance’ of Serie A restart in June

REUTERS — LIVERPOOL Serie A still has 12 rounds REUTERS — MILAN In this file photo taken on February 02, 2019, the Italian of matches to play plus Liverpool manager Juergen The head of Italy’s Olympic Serie A official soccer ball and several outstanding Klopp brought smiles to the committee (CONI) believes logo are pictured prior to the games postponed from faces of three supporters there is a “99 percent” chance match between Juventus and earlier rounds. Juventus currently in isolation amid that the government will allow Parma at the Juventus stadium lead the standings by one the COVID-19 pandemic by the Serie A soccer league to in Turin. dropping in on their Zoom resume on June 13, he said point from Lazio while calls. yesterday. Lecce, SPAL and Brescia Liverpool in March However, CONI president occupy the relegation launched an initiative aimed Giovanni Malago said he could places. at helping people stay con- not predict whether clubs nected during the outbreak would be able to complete the The Health Ministry insists and German Klopp was season. that the player’s entire more than happy to play his Serie A clubs voted on squad would have to go part. Wednesday to set June 13 as the into a 14-day quarantine, Liverpool released a resumption date for the league, which would mean video on Tuesday showing which has been suspended Klopp first checking in on since March 9, although the matches being postponed Brett Duffy, a volunteer with final decision rests with the and could play havoc with the LFC Foundation studying government. the fixture list if players performance analysis, and “I’d say there is a 99% at a number of teams reminiscing on his early chance that Serie A can tested positive. days as a coach. resume on June 13,” Malago “When I started, I had to told state broadcaster Rai, do all the analysis myself so although he was less confident that could be reviewed,” Malago I know it’s quite intense! In of getting all the remaining said. Meanwhile, the FIGC said the end you give it to a head games played. an inspection team would begin coach and he says ‘yeah “To talk about the chances games postponed from earlier testing positive -- a major of teams tested positive. The inspecting Serie A clubs to make interesting’ and puts it of it finishing, you would need rounds. sticking point so far. Italian football federation sure they followed health away,” Klopp told Duffy, a crystal ball,” he said. Juventus lead the standings The Health Ministry insists (FIGC) says that isolating the guidelines. who is self isolating at Liv- “It’s a real risk, but Serie A’s by one point from Lazio while that the player’s entire squad affected player would be suffi- “The inspection unit will erpool John Moores primary and only objective is to Lecce, SPAL and Brescia occupy would have to go into a 14-day cient providing the rest of the verify that the training sessions University. re-start.” the relegation places. Malago quarantine, which would mean squad remain negative. of the professional clubs are “You look in good spirits Serie A still has a total of said the government might also matches being postponed and “I do not know the reason carried out in accordance with still, that’s important. That’s 12 rounds of matches to play change its stance on the issue could play havoc with the for the (health ministry) the protocols which have been how the boys are, that’s how plus several outstanding of how to deal with a player fixture list if players at a number decision but I am told it is one indicated,” it said. I am, and so we will go again and we will be back,” he said. Klopp also caught up with Darren Smyth, who had Brighton’s Murray fears No training until May undergone brain surgery on his birthday last January and is currently isolating due to 25, English Football a cancer diagnosis. League ‘rush’ to restart Smyth told Klopp he was at for the Merseyside AFP — LONDON League tells clubs derby in December 2018 and The body, which REUTERS — LONDON marvelled at the atmosphere Brighton striker Glenn Murray governs the in the stadium following fears football Divock Origi’s stoppage- is being rushed back too soon, Clubs in the second to fourth Championship, time winner. with death rates from corona- tiers of English soccer should League One and “You ended up cele- virus still stubbornly high in the Why can’t we not return to training before League Two, meets brating three or four rows worst-hit country in Europe. just wait sort of May 25 amid the COVID-19 to address financial below and I ended up in Premier League chiefs hope pandemic, the English and operational (goalkeeper) Alisson’s arms. to resume the postponed cam- a month or so to Football League (EFL) said. matters resulting from We were in slightly different paign in mid-June and want see if things go The body, which governs COVID-19. places but we felt exactly the players back in full training in the Championship, League same,” Klopp said. the next two weeks. to plan?: Glenn One and League Two, met on “That’s what football is But Murray believes the Murray Wednesday to address brought professional football all about. That we can share Premier League is moving too financial and operational across the country to a halt these moments and never fast in their attempts to con- matters resulting from early in March, throwing the forget them.” clude the season, with Britain’s COVID-19, adding that “the calendar into chaos and Klopp invited Smyth, official death toll standing at consequences of the pan- inflicting heavy financial who is due to have lung more than 36,000. demic will not be rectified losses on many clubs. surgery, to Anfield to share “Football isn’t necessarily a Murray, who was also on now -- we’re the worst hit in simply by a return to play The EFL acknowledged a beer in his ‘food room’ and necessity -- it’s a game, it’s a the call, is concerned training Europe. No one seems to take behind closed doors.” action was needed to deal asked him to stay strong. sport,” Murray told and matches could start and that into consideration.” “Until all outstanding with the impact of the pan- “You have a wonderful yesterday. then have to stop if players test Players are set to be given matters are concluded, demic, which has also led to family around you, and I “I mean, what if we go positive. masks to wear during training, including finalising a com- a year-long postponement of really, really hope to see you through all this rigmarole of The league hopes to get the while social distancing will also prehensive testing pro- the Euro 2020 tournament soon,” Klopp added. trying to get back started, and backing of clubs to restart at be observed during the first gramme on matchdays and and the Olympic Games. we have a second peak and their next meeting on Monday, phase before more contact is non-matchdays, the EFL “Current attention is we’re stopped anyway? with the return of Germany’s allowed. Board has informed its Clubs clearly on the immediate next “I just can’t understand after Bundesliga this weekend pro- Curtis Davies, a defender that a return to training steps, but the long-term impact just sort of loosening the viding a test case. with second-tier Derby, is asth- should not take place until on the League and its Clubs lockdown why we’re in such a “Obviously we’re all going matic and said wearing masks 25 May at the earliest,” it said remains as stark as previously rush to get it back. Why can’t to be watching the Bundesliga could hinder his breathing. in a statement. outlined, and solutions are still we just wait sort of a month or because it’s football and we all “It is going to be strange but “While there is much required to fill the financial so to see if things go to plan?” love football,” Murray said. I believe, if we want to get back debate and discussion taking hole left by the crisis,” the The Premier League invited “It’ll be nice to see a live to football, we’re going to have place publicly and privately statement added. captains and bosses to share sport on TV without doubt. But to accept it,” Davies told the regarding what should, or “In addition, the EFL is their thoughts on a return to I think what we’re not taking BBC. could, happen next, the EFL mindful of the pressing need action during conference calls into consideration is that “Most of us players are will continue to undertake for clarity in a number of on Wednesday. Germany have only had 7,000, obviously fit, but it’s totally dif- consultation with our areas, including the practi- West Ham midfielder Mark 8,000 deaths, I think, and ferent to being fit and running members before the next calities and timeframes of Noble and Watford forward they’ve got 20 million more around with nothing on your steps are determined.” Clubs being able to facilitate Juergen Klopp Troy Deeney were reportedly people than us. face to running around the The novel coronavirus a return to training.” critical of the resumption plan. “We’re up to like 34,000 pitch with a mask.” German doctor warns footballers of ‘irreversible’ damage AFP — BERLIN pitch, and must avoid pre- damage, such as minor scarring “We will see muscle injuries, match handshakes and hugs to of the lungs after an FC Schalke 04’s German but also injuries to the muscu- Despite rigid hygiene guidelines celebrate goals. inflammation. goalkeeper Alexander loskeletal system and tendons. for the restart of the Bundesliga The DFL says while no plan “This damage may be irre- Nuebel walks with a face “You can’t compare it with this weekend, a leading German could ever be “100 percent versible, or may last a very long mask at the club’s training the start of the season. sports doctor has warned foot- safe”, the guidelines aim to time before the body repairs it. grounds during a training “At the beginning of the ballers are still at risk of create a playing environment “We’ve already had players session in Gelsenkirchen, season they normally have a suffering “irreversible” and with a low, “medically-justi- infected in Europe and we’ll yesterday. very intensive training period, potentially career-ending lung fiable risk”. soon know if they recover their then a short break so that the damage from the coronavirus. However, professor full potential.” body can regenerate, and then With Europe’s other top Wilhelm Bloch, from the Bloch said it is near impos- they attack the season. leagues at least a month away German Sports University in sible to estimate what the risk “Now, that hasn’t been pos- from resuming, the German Cologne, warns that contracting is to footballers in Germany, sible for all the teams.” Football League (DFL) has the coronavirus has the which currently has 172,239 Bloch also wonders how drawn up strict rules for when potential to end a player’s recorded cases of the virus and players can be expected to games restart tomorrow. career. over 7,700 deaths. “Players are throw themselves into tackles Matches will be played “There is a risk that top ath- not in total quarantine, they are after weeks of being told to behind closed doors, with only letes may lose their level of per- with their families, even if they observe social distancing. a limited number of media and formance and never regain it,” have been instructed to limit “I’m not a psychologist, it’s officials allowed to attend. Bloch said in a phone interview. contact,” he said. difficult to assess, but I think it’s The key games see second- “Generally, the physical “And there are also risks going to be a difficult transition placed Borussia Dortmund at makeup, immune system and during matches. and it won’t necessarily be good home to Schalke in tomorrow’s cardiovascular system of elite “They will all be tested, but players, given their lack of full team training last week. for their performance,” said derby and leaders Bayern athletes means that the risk to not all the coronavirus tests match fitness since the league “Depending on the degree Bloch. Munich, who are four points them is low. However, we do work perfectly. There is a rela- stopped in mid-March. of preparation, the risk of injury “It’s also going to be one of clear, visiting Union Berlin on not know at this time whether tively large margin of error.” “Obviously, the players are increases. We can expect that those factors that you have to Sunday. Players have been told even minor infections, or even The sports doctor says not optimally prepared,” Bloch the players will be more prone consider and one of the risk to limit contact, even on the mild symptoms, do not cause another concern is injuries to said, with clubs only resuming to injuries. factors for injury.”