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Wednesday, January 27, 2016 TENNIS Rabia II 17, 1437 AH Djokovic and Federer GULF TIMES set up dream semi-fi nal SPORT Page 9

AFC U23 CHAMPIONSHIP / QAT vs KOR AFC U23 CHAMPIONSHIP / JPN vs IRQ Harakawa Qatar’s Olympic winner downs wait continues aft er Iraq, Japan qualify for Rio

AFC keeper Fahad Talib no chance. loss to South Korea Japan should have added a second Doha through Suzuki just three minutes later, but after beating the Iraq off side trap to Hosts will have to beat Iraq in third-place playoff for Olympic spot iki Harakawa scored a 93rd turn onto Minamino’s through ball on minute winner as Japan se- the edge of the penalty area, the striker By Joe Koraith cured a place in the fi nal of curled his eff ort wide with the goal at Doha the AFC U23 Championship his mercy and only Talib to beat. Rand qualifi cation for the 2016 Olympic Games after snatching a dramatic 2-1 Yuya Kubo had given Japan atar will have to wait un- win over Iraq in yesterday’s semi-fi nal a 26th minute lead only for til Friday to know whether at Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium. Saad Natiq to head home they will be going to the Yuya Kubo had given Japan a 26th Olympics as they crashed minute lead only for Saad Natiq to head an equaliser for Iraq two toQ a heart-breaking 1-3 defeat against home an equaliser for Iraq two minutes minutes before South Korea in the semi-fi nals of the before half-time. half-time. With extra-time AFC U23 Championship yesterday. But with extra-time looming, Har- The South Koreans will now face Ja- akawa rifl ed home from the edge of looming aft er both sides pan in the fi nal on Saturday after Japan the penalty area as Japan ended a two- had struggled for quality in defeated Iraq 2-1 earlier in the day. game losing streak against Iraq, who the fi nal third, Harakawa Goals in the 89th and 96th minutes can still qualify for Brazil later this year from Kwon Chang-hoon and substi- via Friday’s third place playoff against rifl ed home from the edge tute Moon Chang-jin took the South hosts Qatar, who lost to South Korea in of the penalty area Koreans to victory after the hosts had the second semifi nal. cancelled out Ryu Seung-woo’s 49th Japan coach Makoto Teguramori And just two minutes before half- minute strike through Ahmed Alaed- made four changes from the quarter- time Iraq equalised as Natiq headed din’s goal in the 79th minute. fi nal success over Iran, notably the re- home from the edge of the six yard Qatar still have a chance to qualify call of both striker Musashi Suzuki and area at the second time of asking after for the 2016 Olympics but for that they midfi elder Takumi Minamino, while Japan goalkeeper Masatoshi Kushibiki will have to defeat defending champi- Iraq counterpart Shahad Abdulghani had fi rst unconvincingly dealt with a ons Iraq in the third-place playoff on brought in Saad Natiq and Amjed Hus- Hussein corner and initial close range Friday. The top three teams in the U23 sein following last week’s last eight header from the Iraq centre-back. tournament qualify for the Olympics victory over the United Arab Emirates. Iraq maintained the pressure at the later this year in Rio de Janeiro. And both sides showed plenty of at- start of the second half as Amjad Attwan Yesterday’s encounter at the Al tacking intent at the start of an open Kadhim’s drilled rising strike from just Sadd stadium was a stop-start af- contest, although the game lacked a outside the edge of the penalty area was fair with neither team able to domi- clear-cut chance. helped over the crossbar courtesy of an nate proceedings. The fi rst half was But that changed after 26 minutes outstretched hand from Kushibiki. particularly scrappy and didn’t see a as Suzuki raced down the left touch- But with extra-time looming after single shot on target. But there were line after winning possession just both sides had struggled for quality in moves that could have provided goals inside his own half before sending the fi nal third, Harakawa rifl ed home for either team. Qatar came the clos- a low cross across the six yard area from the edge of the penalty area after est in the 10th minute when an Ahmed for a sliding Kubo to give Iraq goal- Minamino’s cross had been cleared. Moein freekick landed perfectly for Moez Ali but the resulting header was Qatar players are dejected after their 1-3 loss to South Korea in the AFC U23 Championship semi-final match yesterday. wide. Ali got a chance again in the 18th (Below) Koreans celebrate after they set up a title clash with Japan. PICTURES: Noushad Thekkayil minute when the ball fell to him inside the box but his shot defl ected off a de- to the equaliser in the 63rd minute fender for a corner. but his header, towards the near post, In the second half, South Korea was saved by South Korea keeper, Kim scored right at the start because of a Dong-Jun. Then it was the turn of goalkeeping error. Qatar keeper Mu- Naim to save another shot from Hyun. hannad Naim has had a good tourna- Qatar were looking more and more ment so far, having pulled off some threatening. In the 73rd minute, good saves. So it was uncharacteristic Ahmed Alaeddin got a brilliant for him to come way out of his box to through pass from Ahmed Yasser af- defend a long ball from deep inside the ter the defender produced a great run South Korean territory. Ryu Seung- down the middle. But the Qatar striker woo, who was lurking dangerously up fl ayed his shot wide. front, had the presence of mind the But just six minutes later, Alaeddin direct the ball towards the goal from redeemed himself when he scored the almost 40 yards out. Qatar defender equalizer. Defender Musaab Khidir Tameem Mohamed set off in chase but ran down the right fl ank and then de- could not stop the ball from going into livered an accurate cross to Alaeddin the goal. inside the box and the striker put the The goal gave South Korea confi - ball in the back of the net. The Korean dence and they were seeing more of keeper should have saved that as the the ball. Naim, after his earlier blun- ball went through his hands. This goal dle but lost the ball right on the edge was caught napping there as no one der, kept Qatar in the game with cru- puts Alaeddin at the top of the goal- of the box. noticed the run from Chang-hoon. cial saves. The fi rst one was in the 55th scoring charts with fi ve. And then came the decisive mo- And then to rub salt into the minute when he saved a strong, low Qatar were now on level terms and ment. In the 89th minute defender Lee wounds, South Korea were able to shot from Kim Hyun. it was their turn to dominate proceed- Seul-Chan provided a great cross for add a third goal in the 96th minute Then Qatar started to regroup and ings. In the 89th minute, Akram Afi f Kwon Chang-hoon and the midfi elder of the game through substitute Moon build attacks. Ali Asad came very close produced a strong run down the mid- scored with ease. The Qatar defence Chang-jin.

Japan’s Riki Harakawa (foreground) is tackled by an Iraqi player during their AFC U23 Championship semi-final match at Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium in Doha yesterday. PICTURE: Anas Khalid Gulf Times 2 Wednesday, January 27, 2016 FOOTBALL

AFC U23 CHAMPIONSHIP Coach Teguramori hails Asano boost in Japan’s win Japan beat Iraq 2-1 to qualify for their sixth consecutive appearance at the Olympic Games

AFC Doha

oach Makoto Teguramori hailed the late introduction of striker Takuma Asano as Japan netted a stoppage timeC winner to edge out Iraq 2-1 in yesterday’s AFC U23 Championship semi-fi nal to secure qualifi cation for the 2016 Olympic Games. Riki Harakawa rifl ed home from the edge of the penalty area in the last of three added minutes with extra-time looming after Iraq’s Saad Natiq had cancelled out Yuya Kubo’s 26th minute opener on the stroke of half-time. And while Teguramori’s side secured their place in Saturday’s AFC U23 Championship fi nal, Japan also qualifi ed for a sixth consecutive appearance at the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro later this year. “The game was a qualifi er for Rio as well as the fi nal, so I am relived we have won,” said Teguramori, who introduced Asano in place of goals- corer Kubo with 12 minutes of nor- mal time remaining at the end of the second half at Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium. “I was really not willing for extra-time. We managed to score a goal, but then we conceded a goal for Iraq. But in the second half Iraq became off ensive so we had to really show restraint and I though it would be an endurance game. “In the second half we seemed to run out of gas as there was a moment Iraq had control of the game, but this was a good opportunity for the play- ers to endure this. This was a close Japan players and off icials mob Riki Harakawa (unseen) after he scored the winnner against Iraq in the semi-final of the AFC U23 Championship.PICTURES: Anas khalid match and this is a good example for the next stage. “But at the end of the second half, Iraq may have been thinking about extra-time so we looked to push them towards the goal which was thanks to the substitution of Taku- ma Asano in the last 15 minutes and we made a tremendous and dramatic second goal.” Teguramori again made full use of his squad as he has done throughout the tournament in Doha by making four changes following last week’s quarter-fi nal success over Iran, which included recalls for striker Musashi Suzuki and midfi elder Ta- kumi Minamino who created the chances for both goals. “I have changed the squad throughout the tournament as I Both Iraqi and Japan fans were in good numbers to cheer for their team. would like to make use of all the weapons I have to grow each player,” added Teguramori. “After the fi rst game I also saw how the players were tired, while I also looked at the next opponent.” And having posted a fi fth con- secutive win, Japan will look to complete a perfect campaign in Sat- urday’s fi nal back at Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium. “We have not suc- ceeded to become an Asian cham- pion,” said Teguramori. “Also the fi rst team did not be- come champion in Australia at the Asian Cup so I always talk to the players about becoming an Asian champion.”

SPOTLIGHT Abdulghani rues Iraq’s ‘two costly mistakes’

AFC “It was a tough match; it was re- Doha ally tough mentally and physically as we only had a few days between matches which made it diffi cult oach Shahad Abdulghani for us. This was clear with the two was left to rue ‘the two mistakes which led to our defeat,” mistakes which led to our said Abdulghani, who saw his side defeat’ after Iraq missed out edge out the United Arab Emirates onC a place in the fi nal of the AFC U23 3-1 after extra-time in Saturday’s Championship and qualifi cation for quarter-fi nal. the 2016 Olympic Games after suf- “We had a decrease in perform- fering a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to Ja- ance in the last 15 minutes of the pan in Tuesday’s semi-fi nal at Ab- second half which we tried to get dullah Bin Khalifa Stadium. back, but I am happy with the per- Iraq, though, still have a chance formance and I hope we can do bet- to secure a return to the Olym- ter in the next game because Japan pic Games for the fi rst time since scored their goals from our mis- 2004 in Brazil later this year if they take.” beat Qatar in Friday’s third place “We have to fi rst take the players play-off . An even contest appeared out of this physical condition and to be heading for extra-time after mental state after the defeat. It is a header from Iraq defender Saad important to recover and rehabili- Natiq two minutes before half-time tate the players in the next 72 hours had cancelled out Yuya Kubo’s 26th as we have one more chance which minute opener for Japan. is crucial to qualify for the Olympic But with less than a minute re- Games,” added Abdulghani. maining of added time at the end of “It will be a very diffi cult match the second half, Riki Harakawa ri- whoever we play whether it be Qatar fl ed home from the edge of the pen- or Korea Republic. We have to pre- alty area to snatch a dramatic win pare very well for the coming game for Japan. to grab the fi nal ticket.” A dejected Iraqi players after their loss to Japan at the Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium in Doha yesterday. Gulf Times Wednesday, January 27, 2016 3 FOOTBALL

COPA DEL REY LEAGUE CUP Pellegrini wary Barca ready for of underdogs Everton

AFP dle the extra games. “Maybe we Manchester will play more games than every- Bilbao quarter test one else but I want to be involved in all competitions. From Janu- anchester City man- ary 27 to February 27 we are going The Catalan giants edged the first leg of the last eight tie 2-1 in the Basque Country ager Manuel Pel- to play nine games, or 10 games if legrini expects his we have a replay, but I prefer that side to match the than being eliminated in these Mdesire of an Everton side chas- competitions.” ing their fi rst piece of silverware Pellegrini added Willy Cabal- in more than 20 years when they lero would replace fi rst-choice meet in today’s League Cup Joe Hart in goal, as he has for all semi-fi nal. domestic cup ties this term. The Toff ees, whose last ma- Meanwhile, Everton manager jor trophy was the 1995 FA Cup, Roberto Martinez said his side head to Manchester with a 2-1 have “nothing to lose”. Mar- lead from the fi rst leg. Today’s tinez believes there’s no reason match will be the third meet- why they cannot go all the way ing between the clubs in three to Wembley despite some poor weeks, with the sides having also recent form, including Sunday’s played out a goalless draw in the 2-1 home defeat by Swansea City. Premier League. But Spanish boss Martinez be- Trophies have come thick and lieves Everton have not got full fast at City in recent years but value for their eff orts this season. Pellegrini is confi dent the desire “You want every player to show of his team to win silverware has the mentality of being ready and not been dimmed. “It is the third that the team can rely on that time we are going to play against individual and every player has Everton in a month, so we know to have that mentality,” Mar- all about their team,” Pellegrini tinez said. “Disappointments are said. “We know the way they play painful at the moment because and their important players. results have not been fair in re- “But our performance is more fl ecting the eff orts and football important in trying to decide this we have played. Psychologically semi-fi nal at home. It is as im- you have to go through experi- portant for us as it is them, it is ences in order to create that re- important to play in the fi nal at silience to create that winning Wembley. Maybe Everton, who mentality. have not been in a fi nal in many “When things are going well years, will be more motivated they (younger players) will get a but I am sure our team will do all lot of attention, but in the same they can to play the fi nal. One of way when results are not going the most important things is to well they have to get used to that refl ect desire, a desire to play an- scrutiny.” other fi nal at Wembley.” Everton and England defender Chilean boss Pellegrini said John Stones has come under fi re the fact City were behind in the for overplaying the ball at the tie would not alter their strategy. back, his error leading to Swan- “For both teams it is better not sea’s fi rst goal on Sunday. “John to play extra time but if we need is 21 and has played 68 games to do it we will. I think it is more in the Premier League. I would important to start not thinking never judge a player until he Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez both sat out the first leg, but are available to return and resume their deadly attacking triumvirate with Neymar. about what you need and if you plays 100 starts in any league,” score an early goal to think the said Martinez. “John is the fi rst AFP resume their deadly attacking triumvi- fair. The game at the Vicente Calderon on form behind them when they go to Las game is fi nished,” he explained. one to know when he plays well Barcelona rate with Neymar. Wednesday follows a 0-0 fi rst leg stale- Palmas with the tie level at 1-1. “We are not going to change our and plays badly. You have to learn Bilbao have their own fearsome for- mate. The only remaining team from outside style of play. We need to win from those situations. Some of ward though in Arduriz, who has taken The capital city side, who last won the the top fl ight are Mirandes, but the sec- here. We will try to score from his performances this season olders Barcelona will be looking a real liking to Barcelona this term. The cup in 2013, lost top spot in La Liga to ond-tier side face a tough ask to match the beginning.” have been magnifi cent. Is he the to book their place in the Copa 34-year-old kicked off his remarkable Barcelona at the weekend after a goalless their run to the 2012 semi-fi nals. They City are competing for tro- fi nished article? Clearly not be- del Rey semi-fi nals when they season by putting four goals past the La draw with Sevilla. Atletico’s success has host Sevilla with a two-goal defi cit to phies on four fronts but Pel- cause he is 21 and has played only take on Athletic Bilbao in a re- Liga champions in the Spanish Super Cup been built on a resolute defence as Diego make up. legrini said his squad could han- 68 games.” Hpeat of last year’s fi nal today. over two games, including a fi rst leg hat- Simeone’s men have only conceded eight Fixtures (aggregate score) All times GMT The Catalan giants edged the fi rst trick. His brace against Eibar on Sunday times in 21 league outings this season, Today: Atletico Madrid (0-0) Celta Vigo leg of the last eight tie 2-1 in the Basque took his tally for the campaign to 25 goals. while Celta Vigo have hit a terrible run of (19:30); Barcelona (2-1) Athletic Bilbao Country, although a late goal from prolif- While the game in Catalonia promises form to drop out of the top four. (20:30) ic striker Aritz Aduriz has given Athletic goals, Atletico Madrid’s encounter with Tomorrow night, Gary Neville’s Valen- Tomorrow: Mirandes (0-2) Sevilla (19:00); a glimmer of hope ahead of the return Celta Vigo could be a diff erent type of af- cia will be hoping to put their poor league Las Palmas (1-1) Valencia (20:00) match at the Nou Camp. It has not been an easy week for the Eu- ropean champions, with midfi elder Javier Barcelona confi dent Neymar will extend contract Mascherano being sentenced to a year in prison for tax fraud. Striker Neymar Barcelona coach Luis Enrique said talks with the club concerning a new extend with Barca if “fiscal stability” was missed the weekend victory at Malaga yesterday he was confident that Brazil- contract, he added: “I don’t know, life is re-established with the player’s 2013 with a muscle problem and his vagueness ian star Neymar would commit to the very long.” transfer currently being investigated for when asked about the possibility of leav- Catalan giants beyond his current con- This has lead to speculation of a pos- alleged tax fraud. Neymar missed Satur- ing Barca has intensifi ed speculation sur- tract in 2018. Asked at the team’s press sible move, including to Liga rivals Real day’s 2-1 league win at Malaga because rounding his future. conference if the Brazil captain was Madrid, with his release clause estimat- of muscle pain but should line up in Manager Luis Enrique has said that ready to extend his stay in Barcelona, ed at 190 million euros ($205m). English today’s Cup quarter-final return-leg tie he expects him to stay put though, and Luis Enrique said: “I believe so, yes.” side Manchester United also tried to against Athletic Bilbao at Camp Nou. “He the Brazilian will probably return to the Neymar, 23, has himself remained approach the player last year. feels very good and there is no risk (of starting lineup for the second leg. Lionel vague concerning his future plans, and In recent months Neymar’s father relapse),” said Luis Enrique. “He trained Messi and Luis Suarez both sat out the after stating last month that he was in has let it be known that his son will only and is in perfect shape to play.” fi rst leg, but are available to return and Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini

ROUND-UP Van Gaal back at training as club deny resignation off er

AFP ADEBAYOR JOINS PALACE UNTIL mounted when coach Rudi Garcia was sacked Manchester Manchester United manager END OF SEASON two weeks ago. Louis Van Gaal was seen Emmanuel Adebayor has joined Premier League Ahead of Roma’s defeat on Sunday, club offi - arriving at Carrington complex side Crystal Palace until the end of the season, cials confi rmed he had asked for a transfer. The ouis Van Gaal went back to work training to take his players. the club announced yesterday. “Crystal Palace player won a French league and cup double with Manchester United stars yesterday after are delighted to announce the signing of striker Lille in 2011 before moving to Arsenal, where he the club denied he had off ered to resign. Emmanuel Adebayor until the end of the sea- scored just 11 goals in two years. According to some media, Van Gaal faces son,” said a statement on the club’s website. Roma reportedly paid around eight million eu- La crunch meeting with United executive vice Togo striker Adebayor, 31, was released from ros in 2013 to secure his services. Gervinho’s move chairman Ed Woodward amid supporter anger his contract at Tottenham Hotspur in Septem- is the latest in a string of high-profi le transfers in- over the 1-0 defeat by Southampton. ber but will now move from the north London volving foreign players and coaches in China, where Van Gaal went back to the Netherlands after side to south London top-fl ight rivals Palace. the top league is increasingly fl ooded with cash. the Old Traff ord loss for a planned family visit Adebayor fi rst came to the Premier League Last week Asian football champions and the players were given Sunday and Monday when he joined Arsenal from French side Mo- Guangzhou Evergrande sold their Brazilian top off . Amid intense speculation about his future, naco. scorer Elkeson to rivals Shanghai SIPG for as a Manchester United club source denied reports He joined Manchester City in a £25 million much as 20 million euros ($22 million), the of- that the 64-year-old former Dutch national ($36 million, 33 million euros) deal during 2009 fi cial Xinhua news agency reported. boss had off ered his resignation on Saturday. before loan spells at Real Madrid and Spurs And Van Gaal was seen arriving at United’s ahead of his permanent move to White Hart NEW ZEALAND WOMEN QUALIFY FOR Carrington complex to take training. Media re- Lane in August 2012. RIO AFTER PNG FAIL TO SHOW ports said he was to have talks with the English Palace are currently 11th in the Premier The New Zealand women’s soccer team have giants top management later yesterday. After League table. qualifi ed for this year’s Rio Olympics after Pa- suff ering a sixth league defeat of the season, pua New Guinea failed to travel to Auckland for Van Gaal must also lift his players for Friday’s FA ROMA’S IVORIAN FORWARD the second leg of their qualifying fi nal having Cup fourth round trip to Derby County. GERVINHO HEADS TO CHINA failed to obtain the necessary visas. Loud jeers rang around Old Traff ord as the and I cannot fulfi l them.” The charge referred to the heated aftermath of Roma’s Ivorian striker Gervinho has signed with New Zealand had won the fi rst leg of the Oce- team left the fi eld following Saturday’s loss and West Brom’s Claudio Yacob escaping a second China’s Hebei Fortune, the team said, the latest ania qualifying fi nal 7-1 in Lae last Saturday and another poor result would heighten pressure for CHELSEA AND WEST BROMWICH booking after fouling Diego Costa in the second European-based star to be lured east by the in- returned home to prepare for the second leg change at Manchester. With United now fi ve FINED AFTER FRACAS half of the 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge. creasingly wealthy Chinese Super League. yesterday. points off the top four, out of the Champions Chelsea and West Bromwich Albion have been The game was a fractious aff air with firebrand “Gervinho has joined Hebei Fortune,” the The Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) League and having only won only three of their fi ned for failing to ensure their players conduct- Chelsea striker Costa involved in several spats, club said in a one-line statement on its verifi ed and New Zealand Football (NZF) said on Tues- last 13 matches in all competitions, Van Gaal ed themselves in an orderly fashion during their including an incident with most of the West Sina Weibo account, a Chinese version of Twit- day Papua New Guinea had withdrawn from the said later he could understand fans’ frustration. Premier League game on Jan. 13, the Football Brom team after the fi nal whistle. Chelsea were ter. The announcement did not say how much tie due to the visa issue. “I’m very disappointed that I cannot reach Association said. also fi ned for misconduct in November follow- the deal was worth. NZF Chief Executive Andy Martin was happy the expectations of the fans,” he said. “They Chelsea were fi ned 65,000 pounds ing their bad-tempered Premier League clash Gervinho has scored only six league goals for the team had gained an Olympic berth but would have—or they had—great expectations of me, ($93,288.00) and West Brom 35,000 pounds. with West Ham United. Roma this season and doubts over his future have preferred the game to have been played. Gulf Times 4 Wednesday, January 27, 2016 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS New head for scandal-hit South FIFA fi ve hunt for America federation

AFP for extradition over bribery alle- Luque, Paraguay gations by US authorities which are investigating the scandal. votes as campaign Napout was released on bail in outh American football New York in December. confederation CONME- The suspects are accused of BOL yesterday chose Par- accepting millions of dollars in aguay football associa- bribes in return for awarding tionS chief Alejandro Dominguez broadcasting and commercial as its new president, as three contracts for football tourna- enters fi nal month former heads face US indict- ments. The broader FIFA scan- ments in the FIFA corruption dal has led to the suspension of scandal. numerous top offi cials including All five are lobbying hard for votes in a races in which many say a surprise is possible The South American Football Blatter, FIFA’s longtime presi- Confederation is looking to clean dent. AFP its image after a scandal that Valdez said there was a con- Zurich saw its headquarters in Paraguay sensus to elect Dominguez as searched this month by inves- president “to work to get through tigators probing alleged bribes. this diffi cult situation.” Valdez he fi ve candidates to take over the Football chiefs from CONME- himself stepped out of the run- FIFA presidency from the banned BOL’s 10 member countries, ning at the last minute, saying a Sepp Blatter stepped up the fran- gathered at its headquarters near consensus was needed to launch tic hunt for votes yesterday as the Asuncion, voted unanimously a cleaner new era for CONME- Tcampaign entered the fi nal month. to choose Dominguez, 44, as its BOL. FIFA sent a formal notice to the 209 new leader until 2019. On Monday, he called for “the member associations yesterday confi rm- They were also expected to implementation of transparency ing that Prince Ali bin al-Hussein, Sheikh back Swiss-Italian Gianno In- and oversight measures that Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifah, Gianni fantino to succeed the suspend- guarantee the effi cient and rig- Infantino, Tokyo Sexwale and Jerome ed Joseph Blatter as president of orous administration” of CON- Champagne would take part in the Feb- world football’s governing body MEBOL. The confederation is ruary 26 vote in Zurich. FIFA. the umbrella group for 10 South “The Ad-hoc Electoral Committee has “We thought that Alejandro American football associations. formally admitted and declared the can- Dominguez could take up the Its headquarters had diplo- didates eligible for the election of the of- post of president in an atmos- matic immunity from 1992 but fi ce of FIFA president at the extraordinary phere of unity,” CONMEBOL’s that privilege was withdrawn FIFA Congress,” said the letter. outgoing interim head, Wilmar last year after the scandal erupt- The world body has faced major pres- Valdez of Uruguay, said in an ed. Another CONMEBOL source sure since US and Swiss authorities address. “We have to restore to told AFP the body would back launched major investigations into FIFA Sheikh South American football the Infantino when FIFA chooses a and Blatter, 79, was banned for eight Salman, who credibility it deserves.” new president in Zurich on Feb- years for misconduct. All the should get a The confederation’s last presi- ruary 26. While Sheikh Salman, head of the candidates majority of dent, Miguel Angel Napout, The acting head of European Asian Football Confederation, and Infan- have the AFC’s 46 also a Paraguayan, was one of 16 federation UEFA, Infantino also tino, the UEFA general secretary, are seen concentrated votes as well Latin American offi cials indicted has the support of UEFA’s execu- as the frontrunners, all fi ve are lobbying on the need as many of by US authorities last month. tive committee. He faces com- hard for votes in a races in which many to clean up Africa’s 54, Among the others were another petition in his run for the FIFA observers say a surprise is still possible. football, while said that he Paraguayan former CONMEBOL presidency from Sheikh Salman All have concentrated on the need to making rival could invite head, Nicolas Leoz, 87, and its of Bahrain, who has the likely clean up football, while making rival pro- proposals to Infantino, Uruguayan ex-president Eugen- backing of African countries for posals to increase the World Cup and give increase the or English io Figueredo, 83. his bid. Another FIFA candi- more of FIFA’s riches to national associa- World Cup and Premier Leoz is under house arrest in date is Prince Ali of Jordan, who tions. Sheikh Salman, who should get a give more of League chief Paraguay and Figueredo is in jail like Infantino was attended the majority of the AFC’s 46 votes as well as FIFA’s riches executive in Uruguay. Both face requests CONMEBOL congress. many of Africa’s 54, said Monday that he to national Richard could invite Infantino, or English Premier associations. Scudamore League chief executive Richard Scuda- to be FIFA more to be FIFA secretary general if he secretary wins. “So far there’s no agreement and no general if he deal but let’s see what happens in the next wins. few days,” Sheikh Salman told Sky Sport television of his contacts with Infantino. This combination of photos shows FIFA presedential canditates (from top left) UEFA secretary general Gianni Infantino, AFC president The Bahraini offi cial has been under Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifah, Former FIFA deputy general secretary Jerome Champagne, FIFA vice president for Asia Prince pressure however over accusations of Ali bin al-Hussein of Jordan and chairman of the FIFA monitoring committee for Israel and Palestine Tokyo Sexwale. (AFP) involvement in a crackdown on pro-de- mocracy demonstrators in the Gulf state. Three of its former leaders are among 39 Prince Ali, the only challenger against tive South Africa over his lacklustre cam- The sheikh said he could guarantee offi cials and businessmen and two com- Blatter in an election in May last year, has paign. He has called for a ban on spon- “one million percent” that no footballer panies facing US charges over more than toured the world seeking support. sors’ names appearing on national team or athlete had been abused. $200 million in bribes paid for marketing The Jordanian royal has made a com- shirts. But Sexwale has travelled much The Sheikh, like most of the other can- and broadcasting deals. plaint to the electoral committee about less than his rivals. didates, withdrew from a proposed FIFA CONMEBOL are expected to back In- a cooperation accord made by the Asian Champagne, a former FIFA offi cial and debate before the European parliament fantino, a Swiss national who has been and African confederations this month French diplomat, said the election would on Wednesday in a sign of the growing right hand man to UEFA boss Michel which he indicated was a bid by Sheikh be “complicated” and would “only be de- intensity of the campaign. Infantino and Platini, who was banned with Blatter last Salman to secure African support. The cided in the fi nal moments.” Prince Ali, a former FIFA vice president month. The European confederation, sheikh has strongly denied the allegation. Calling for greater commitment to from Jordan, were at a South American UEFA, says most of its 53 members will African candidate Sexwale, a former reforms, he told French radio yesterday confederation, CONMEBOL, congress in also back Infantino. But the vote is secret Robben Island prisoner with Nelson that “some candidates are making totally New Conmebol president Alejandro Dominguez of Paraguay speaks Asuncion yesterday seeking support. The which has encouraged some of the out- Mandela turned business tycoon and demagogic proposals, especially fi nancial during a press conference after being elected until 2019 by confederation is to elect a new president. siders to step up their bid. politician, has faced criticism in his na- and playing a 40 team World Cup.” consensus in Luque, Paraguay. (AFP)

BOTTOMLINE LIGUE 1 Serie A clubs dismiss latest PSG coach Blanc unhappy with Cavani whiff of tax evasion scandal AFP Paris AFP Among those being probed are Rome AC Milan vice-president Galliani, Napoli president Laurentiis, Lazio aris Saint-Germain coach Lau- president Lotito, former Juventus rent Blanc criticised the behav- C Milan, Napoli and Lazio president Jean-Claude Blanc as well iour of striker Edinson Cavani have dismissed their re- as players’ agent Alessandro Moggi— (right) yesterday, claiming the spective roles in the latest the son of disgraced former Juventus UruguayanP needed to improve his atti- scandal to hit Italian foot- offi cial Luciano Moggi. tude off the pitch. ballA after dozens of players and of- Crespo, a former Argentina inter- “Football is a team sport and you can’t fi cials were put under investigation national who spent most of his ca- just do what you want,” Blanc told re- yesterday. reer in Serie A and who is now coach porters. “’Edi’ is a generous guy and team A total of 64 people, including Mi- of Serie B side Modena, and PSG player on the pitch, but as part of the lan CEO Adriano Galliani, Modena striker Lavezzi, an Argentina inter- group, he hasn’t done what he has to do.” coach Hernan Crespo and Paris Saint national, have also been implicated, “He has to be aware that his behaviour Germain striker Ezequiel Lavezzi say the reports. must be group-oriented. But he’s a guy have been targeted by an Italian po- Other Argentinians, including I like a lot, who I’ve defended tooth and lice investigation into alleged tax former Inter Milan striker Diego nail when he is regularly challenged (by evasion and false accounting, ac- Milito and Atalanta striker German the media) over his performances and cording to widespread reports. Denis are also under suspicion. positioning.” Dubbed ‘Fuorigioco’ (Off side), the Players’ agents are alleged to have Earlier this month, Blanc admitted a probe was launched by prosecutors issued fi ctitious receipts for their “behavioural problem” concerning Cav- in Naples and is focusing on sus- Among those being probed is Hernan Crespo, who spent most of his career in services to clubs, pretending that ani was discussed during a team meet- picions that several players’ agents Serie A and who is now coach of Serie B side Modena, negotiations had been carried out ing at their training camp in Doha over colluded with club offi cials and play- in the exclusive interest of the club, the winter break. French sports daily ers from Italy’s top two divisions in a tigators but played down the reports relaxed”. A lawyer for Lazio said club when in fact the agents were carrying L’Equipe reported that members of the complicated tax-avoidance scheme as “absolutely marginal” and “un- president Claudio Lotito “has not out their usual work in the interests squad were unhappy that the Uruguayan that deprived the tax man of millions founded”. received any warrant that shows he is of their players. left on holidays two days before everyone of euros. Most of the agents are from “Today, the public prosecutor of under investigation”. Clubs were then able to benefi t else and seemed to be allowed to come Argentina, according to a report on Naples decided to give Adriano Gal- The investigation stems from fi nancially by deducting the agents’ and go as he wished. gazzetta.it. liani a termination notice relating 2012, when Italy’s ‘Guardia di Finan- invoices from their taxable income The episode echoed back to his de- Gazzetta claimed “assets valued at to the investigation for a series of za’—the country’s fi nancial police— when fi ling tax declarations, in the layed return from South America in Swedish star Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who around 12 million euros ($13 million)” events that are absolutely marginal raided the offi ces of current Serie A process saving thousands of euros January 2015, which saw him suspended tops the Ligue 1 scoring charts with 17 had already been seized. Italian foot- and not founded and which will leaders Napoli to seize the contract at a time. The system also allowed for two matches. The problem then also goals this term. ball has suff ered for many years from come to a resolution, in terms of both of Lavezzi, who moved to Paris Saint the players and their agents—some concerned Ezequiel Lavezzi who was also Cavani has netted 13 goals in all com- scandals involving match-fi xing and tax and criminal law, with a due dis- Germain in 2012 for a reported 31mn of whom are alleged to have used penalised at the time. petitions this season but hasn’t started illegal sports betting. missal,” said a club statement. euros. Yesterday morning, Naples ‘phantom’ companies and off shore Cavani, 28, is said to be unhappy at in the league since PSG’s 5-1 rout of Lyon Milan, the seven-times European Napoli’s fi lm producer president prosecutor Vincenzo Piscitelli or- bank accounts in fi nancial tax ha- being played out wide rather than his on December 13. He is, however, tipped champions, confi rmed the club had Aurelio De Laurentiis called the dered the Guardia di Finanza to carry vens—to benefi t fi nancially, said the preferred central role with the French to be in the line-up for today’s League received offi cial notice from inves- probe “crap”, adding: “I am totally out a series of raids. report. champions, faced with competition from Cup semi-fi nal against Toulouse. Gulf Times Wednesday, January 27, 2016 5 CRICKET

CENTURION TEST Steyn ruled out of one-day international series

Reuters and is unlikely to feature Pretoria either. Kyle Abbott, who suff ered a ale Steyn’s injury hamstring strain during the Rabada has six woes continued fourth Test in Pretoria which yesterday as South finished yesterday, the first DAfrica ruled him out ODI against England in Blo- of the five-match one-day emfontein next Wednesday. international series against Kagiso Rabada, who took 13 England shortly after they se- wickets in the final test that cured a consolation victory in South Africa won by 280 the final Test. runs, and fellow paceman appeal as S Africa The fast bowler, who has Morne Morkel will also be missed all but one innings rested for some of the ODIs, of the four Tests against Domingo told a news confer- England and lost his ranking ence. as the world’s best bowler, “We will look to bring one or continues to battle with a two new fast bowlers in,” he shoulder injury, coach Russell said. Domingo said. thrash England South Africa are now hoping the 32-year-old might be able to play in the two Twenty20 It was an abject display by an England team that had played so well hitherto to win internationals which follow the five ODIs and serve as the series but, with the pressure off , had simply run out of mental energy a warm-up for the World Twenty20 in India in March. Steyn hurt his shoulder in the first test against England in South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada (Top) Durban just after Christmas celebrates with his teammates after and has not been able to bowl the dismissal of England’s Jonny since despite South Africa of- Bairstow at Centurion yesterday. ficials saying that a scan had revealed no obvious muscle damage. Fellow paceman Vernon Phi- lander has also not recovered from an ankle injury suff ered on tour in India in November

SPOTLIGHT Still a long way to go, says England captain Cook

by an innings and 46 runs; and against By Mike Selvey SCORECARD The Guardian Pakistan, in Sharjah, they were beaten by 127 runs. Only the Ashes series and this one were dead rubbers: of the others,only South Africa, first innings, 475 Total (34.4 overs) ...... 101 eventy-fi ve minutes was all it took in the UAE were they not leading the se- England, first innings, 342 Fall of wickets: 1-2 (Hales), 2-8 (Cook), the South Africans to wrap up the ries going into the fi nal game. South Africa, second innings, 248-5 dec 3-18 (Compton), 4-58 (Taylor), 5-58 fi nal Test. Eighty-two deliveries. It has made a diff erence to how the team England, second innings (overnight (Root), 6-83 (Bairstow), 7-83 (Stokes), 49 runs added by England and can be perceived, with seven wins, seven 52-3) 8-91 (Woakes), 9-101 (Broad) sevenS wickets lost. It was an abject dis- defeats and draws only in Antigua, Abu Bowling: A. Cook c and b Morkel ...... 5 Morkel 12-5-36-3, Rabada play by an England team that had played Dhabi and Cape Town. To beat Australia in A. Hales lbw b Rabada ...... 1 10.4-2-32-6 (1nb, 1w), Abbott 2-0-10-0, so well hitherto to win the series but, with an Ashes series, and the No1-ranked side N. Compton c De Kock b Rabada ...... 6 Piedt 7-2-11-1, Elgar 2-1-8-0, Duminy the pressure off , had simply run out of on their home grounds, is a considerable J. Root c Elgar b Piedt ...... 20 1-0-2-0 mental energy. AB de Villiers may have achievement but it could have looked even J. Taylor c De Kock b Morkel ...... 24 Result: South Africa won by 280 runs double-ducks to his name in the match, more impressive. B. Stokes c Cook b Morkel ...... 10 Toss: South Africa but he knows what it is like now to win a In 2009, when England won the Ash- J. Bairstow c De Kock b Rabada ...... 14 Series: England won the four-match match, and by 280 runs, a massive margin. es at home, there was an idea that some M. Ali not out ...... 10 series 2-1 England Captain Alastair Cook (C) receives the Basil D’Oliveira England started the day on 52 for three, of the bare statistics did not support C. Woakes c De Kock b Rabada ...... 5 Umpires: Kumar Dharmasena (SRI), series trophy at the end of the fourth Test match between and, with two wickets in two balls for the win, in terms of centuries scored or S. Broad c De Villiers b Rabada ...... 2 Chris Gaff aney (NZL) England and South Africa at Supersport stadium at Centurion Kagiso Rabada, ended on 101. With the wickets taken, and there is an element J. Anderson lbw b Rabada ...... 0 TV umpire: Rod Tucker (AUS) yesterday. wicket of Jimmy Anderson, the brilliant of that here now. The leading run scorer, Extras (lb2, nb1, w1) ...... 4 Match referee: Ranjan Madugalle (SRI) young bowler secured his sixth of the in- Hashim Amla ( 470 at 67.14), and wicket AFP that he was delighted with the nings – at a cost of 32 runs – and 13th of taker ( Rabada, 22 at 21.9) are South Af- Pretoria way his side had fi nished the the match. Only Makhaya Ntini, with rican, and the South Africans made six series, ending a sequence of 13-132 against West Indies in Trinidad in centuries to England’s three, with four the series and few would argue with that. were in matches where the series was still nine Tests without a win - the 2005, has better match fi gures for South fi ve-wicket hauls to England’s one. But England’s batting performance on the live. Would England have played as they ngland captain longest since South Africa re- Africa than Rabada’s 13-144. He was gift- that is not necessarily how series are fi nal day was described by the head coach did had this series still been live? Almost Alastair Cook said his turned to international cricket wrapped wickets on the fi nal day, but he won. There was some depth in that Ben Trevor Bayliss as “ limp” which is an un- certainly not, but in the end, although team had played some in 1991. has been an exceptional fi nd for his coun- Stokes made 411 runs at 58.71, Joe Root derstatement. On a pitch that was always they did not do themselves justice on the brilliant cricket to win “Tough times are part of the try, and has put a spanner into the works 386 at 55.14 and Jonny Bairstow 359 at going to be tricky, with the erratic bounce fi nal day, it did no damage. aE series in South Africa but a game,” said De Villiers. “I nev- of the old Steyn, Morkel, Philander com- 71.8, all considerably better than South in particular, survival was never really South Africa’s fi nal day task was made 280-run defeat in the fourth er thought it was panic sta- bination. Who would dare to leave him out Africa’s next best, while Broad took 18 going to be an option. But the manner of simple. James Taylor, who top-scored and fi nal Test at SuperSport tions. We applied pressure for now? wickets at 20.16. their undoing just looked mediocre when with 24, got a head-jerking snorter from Park yesterday was not the a little bit longer and did the After the game, Alastair Cook was able In Durban, and, particularly at the set against the way that they had played Morne Morkel; Root, dropped at the way they wanted to end the basics a bit better than we have to collect the Basil D’Oliveira trophy, Wanderers, through Broad’s inspirational hitherto. wicket from Dane Piedt’s fi rst ball of the tour. in the last while. Those are the which his team had secured with their brilliance , England seized the moments It has been an intensive nine months of day, and all at sea against him for some “For the whole fi ve days we things I have been asking for victory in the third Test at the Wander- that proved decisive, something that has Test cricket, as much as any team has ever reason, edged the same bowler to slip; were not quite as good as we over the last 10 to 14 days. It’s ers, so this match was a dead one as far as eluded them in the past. had to undertake, and Cook has said how and Bairstow, after a couple of thumping have been for the fi rst three not that complicated. We just the series was concerned. But in the past England may be a side still learning how much the tour of the UAE in particular, pedigree boundaries on either side of the games,” said Cook. “We spoke have to do the small things nine months, there has been a worrying to play the game consistently, but they with the heat and pitches, took out of him wicket, edged Rabada to the keeper for the a lot about how we wanted to right. I’m very excited about trend to these fi nal games as far as Eng- have progressed in this regard. In Stokes, and his players. We do need to understand fi rst of the bowler’s four last-day wickets, fi nish the tour unbeaten but our future.” land are concerned, a reverse almost of the they have a free-spirited player whose the physical and mental demands placed having been taken at slip from the previ- we just haven’t been good South Africa made fi ve old habit where they would win the dead burgeoning reputation has only been en- on the players. ous delivery which turned out to be a no enough in this game.” changes coming into the fi nal matches having been beaten in a series. hanced in South Africa and whose pres- Here they had already won this series ball. Cook said the toss had been Test two down in the series. Each of the fi ve series played since April ence will underpin the England side for so taking the foot off the gas, even sub- Stokes, meanwhile, was only going to important, with South Africa “A couple of changes were have resulted in defeats in the last match: many years to come: he epitomises the consciously, was perhaps understand- play one way and after one top-edged batting fi rst on a pitch which necessary,” explained De Vil- in Barbados, West Indies won by fi ve manner in which England would like to able. They were also caught between the boundary, he pulled Morkel straight to deteriorated. “But it doesn’t liers. “The guys who came in wickets to draw the series; at Headingley, see their cricket played. His runs, with two stools of a positive approach and an deep midwicket. Broad, throwing the bat mask the fact that we weren’t brought a nice fresh vibe, an New Zealand’s 199-run win also secured a that astounding 258 in Cape Town that attempt to play through the day. England at Rabada and caught at fi rst slip, and An- quite at it.” air of confi dence.” draw in a two match series; having secured will live long in the memory, when added have fought memorable rearguards in the derson, yorked on the foot and lbw on re- The England captain De Villiers singled out the Ashes, they were trounced at the Oval to 12 wickets at 29.16 saw him as man of past, not least on this ground, but they view, brought the series to a close. said that winning the series 33-year-old opening batsman against the number one team Stephen Cook, whose century in the world was a signifi cant on debut provided the founda- BOTTOMLINE achievement that would be tion for South Africa’s fi rst in- looked back on in future years nings total of 475. t as a highlight. He said it re- “He’s done well and played mained a long term aim for a lot of domestic cricket. He SA coach Domingo hopes win will quieten the noise England themselves to become brought a lot of experience the best team in the world. into the team even though it “We’ve never pretended we was his fi rst Test match. He’s Reuters really proud because it has been a tough se- are the fi nished article. We got a bright future.” Pretoria ries,” he said. After a series of embarrassing have still not played a com- Despite losing the series, De batting collapses recently, including their plete series. We have got to Villiers felt the win was “defi - two lowest test innings totals since re- be more consistent. There’s a nitely a step in the right direc- outh Africa coach Russell Domin- admission to international cricket in 1991, long way to go to be number tion, with a bit of experience go hopes his side’s comprehensive the team have been criticised for being the one.” coming into the side, a bit of 280-run victory in the fourth Test only top nation without a batting coach. AB de Villiers, the South youth and a lot of talent”. against England will halt the criti- “Everybody thinks we have not been African captain, said England “But we’re not going to get cismS levelled at the side after successive se- looking for a batting coach but we’ve been deserved much credit. ahead of ourselves, there’s ries defeats knocked them off the top of the trying for the last year,” Domingo said. “We were completely out- a lot of work to be done,” he world rankings. “Every team’s got it. England have got played in the two Test matches added. South Africa lost 3-0 in India last year one, Australia have got one, India have got (that England won). They’re Cook, meanwhile, singled before going down 2-1 at home to England, one. Domingo said they had a candidate in going to be the team to beat in out all-rounder Ben Stokes, exposing weaknesses in the team’s batting mind. the next year or so,” he said. who was named man of the line-up, in particular. “We’ve had a few people who said they “They’ve got a lot of good series. “The main thing I take out of it was the were interested but they wouldn’t commit leaders, a lot of match-win- “Ben had a fantastic tour. way side responded to a lot of noise that has to it simply because travelling is not that ners. The future is bright for I’m very lucky as a captain to come from the public and the media,” Do- fun when you are away from your family for them. Cookie’s a really stable have him in my side. In the mingo told reporters yesterday. worst players and the worst coaches in the composure really well through tough times. a long time and when there is a lot of pres- captain and they’re going to be next fi ve or six years he can “When you have one or two bad series, world which is not necessarily the case. Do- “To play the way they have played these sure and a lot of criticism you are faced with force for a few years to come.” be amazing. When he’s on, he everybody makes you sound like you are the mingo said his players had maintained their last couple of days makes the coaching staff when things don’t go well,” he said. De Villiers said, though, wins games for you.” Gulf Times 6 Wednesday, January 27, 2016 CRICKET

ADELAIDE T20 FOCUS Ailing Australia coach Lehmann to Kohli, spinners miss NZ ODI series

Reuters for him to fl y,” CA chief medi- Melbourne cal offi cer John Orchard said in a statement. “As such, he will not travel to dazzle as India ustralia coach Darren New Zealand for the one-day Lehmann will miss next international series. He is meet- month’s one-day series ing with specialists in Sydney in New Zealand as he later this week and will have re- Acontinues his recovery from deep peat scans on Friday to check his vein thrombosis but he plans to progress.” CA has not named a join the team for the subsequent replacement for the three one- Test matches, his country’s crick- dayers in New Zealand starting on down Australia et board said yesterday. Feb. 3 but expects Lehmann to be The 45-year-old was hospital- back in charge for the subsequent ‘Everything came together nicely and it was good to get that win under the belt’ ised with a swollen left calf yes- two-match test series. terday, prompting Cricket Aus- “We have strong depth in our tralia (CA) to put batting coach coaching ranks and will make that Michael Di Venuto in charge for decision in due course,” CA ex- the three-match Twenty20 series ecutive general manager of team against India which started at Ad- performance Pat Howard said. elaide yesterday. “It is anticipated that Darren “Darren is in good health and will make it back for the test se- feeling well at the moment but is ries but as with all the decisions still awaiting medical clearance we make, we will be guided by Match-winner: File photo of for us to be satisfi ed that it is safe medical advice.” Virat Kohli in action

Darren Lehmann

FACT OF LIFE Kiwi quick says bouncer blows AFP ing the batsmen play the big shot be- Adelaide SCORECARD cause you can really put pressure on them that way. are ‘part of game’ India S. Watson c Nehra b Ashwin...... 12 “If you see the Aussie batting line- ndia drew first blood in the three- R. Sharma c Faulkner b Watson ...... 31 M. Wade c Jadeja b Pandya ...... 5 up, more often than not the only way match Twenty20 series when they S. Dhawan c Wade b Watson ...... 5 J. Faulkner b Bumrah ...... 10 you can beat them when they are chas- AFP one of your team-mates down beat Australia by 37 runs at the Ad- V. Kohli not out ...... 90 K. Richardson b Nehra ...... 9 ing is by taking wickets.” Auckland on the ground, it’s pretty scary, elaide Oval on yesterday. S. Raina b Faulkner ...... 41 C. Boyce c Pandya b Bumrah ...... 3 Earlier, Kohli smashed his 90 runs (but) it’s just part of the game, IAfter Australian captain Aaron Finch from just 55 balls, hitting nine fours and it’s been going on for years,” he M.S. Dhoni not out ...... 11 S. Tait not out...... 1 won the toss and sent the visitors in to Extras (lb3 w7) ...... 10 Extras (lb2 w8) ...... 10 two sixes. ew Zealand paceman told reporters. bat on both countries’ national day, the Total (3 wickets: 20 overs) ...... 188 Total (all out; 19.3 overs) ...... 151 “Everything came together nicely Trent yesterday de- “It’s just a shame it happened Indians smashed their way to 188 for Fall of wickets: 1-40 (Sharma), 2-41 (Dha- Fall of wicket: 1-47 (Warner), 2-89 and it was good to get that win under scribed seeing team- yesterday. three thanks to a brilliant 90 not out wan), 3-175 (Raina) (Smith), 3-89 (Finch), 4-93 (Head), 5-110 the belt,” Kohli said. mate Mitchell Mc- “It still churns your stom- from Virat Kohli. Did not bat: He was given good support from re- NClenaghan felled by a bouncer ach a little bit to see stuff like Y. Singh, H. Pandya, R. Jadeja, (Watson), 6-124 (Lynn), 7-129 (Wade), 8-143 The Australians started their run R. Ashwin, J. Bumrah, A. Nehra (Faulkner), 9-149 (Richardson), 10-151 called batsman Suresh Raina (41), with as “stomach churning” and that happen and it’s hard to talk chase full of purpose, at one stage scor- Bowling: Tait 4-0-45-0 (6w), Richardson (Boyce) the pair putting on 134 for the third “scary”, but insisted such deliv- about to be honest but we’ve just ing at 11 runs an over. But once they lost 4-0-41-0, Faulkner 4-0-43-1, Watson 4-0-24- Bowling: Nehra 4-0-30-1, Ashwin 4-0-28-2 wicket. eries are an intrinsic part of the got to move on, it’s just part of David Warner (17), Aaron Finch (44) 2 (1w), Boyce 3-0-23-0, Head 1-0-9-0 (1w), Bumrah 3.3-0-23-3 (1w), Jadeja 4-0-21- Rohit Sharma got the visitors away game. the game and it’s always going to and Steve Smith (21) they never looked Australia 2, Pandya 3-0-37-2 (6w), Yuvraj 1-0-10-0 to a lightning start, hitting 31 from 20 McClenaghan was poleaxed happen.” like chasing down the total. A. Finch lbw Ashwin ...... 44 Toss: Australia balls before he mistimed a pull shot off during the Black Caps’ win over Boult said modern helmets Indian spinners Ravi Ashwin (2-28) D. Warner c Kohli b Bumrah...... 17 Result: India won by 37 runs Watson and was caught at mid-on by Pakistan in Wellington on Mon- did not allow the ball to pierce and Ravindra Jadeja (2-21) proved the S. Smith c Kohli b Jadeja ...... 21 Man of the match: Virat Kohli James Faulkner. day when an Anwar Ali delivery the grille, but McClenaghan was difference between the two teams as T. Head lbw Jadeja ...... 2 Umpires: Simon Fry (AUS), John Ward Watson had the other opener Shikhar smashed through his helmet wearing older style headgear the Australian batsmen struggled to C. Lynn c Yuvraj b Pandya ...... 17 (AUS) Dhawan (5) caught by wicketkeeper grille, fracturing his left eye with a slightly larger gap. keep up the pace. Matthew Wade two balls later to leave socket. McClenaghan retired hurt and After the impressive paceman Jasprit the Indians on 41 for two. But Kohli and The injury revived painful will not take part in the rest of Bumrah had Warner caught at mid-on, comer Travis Head the same way in the “I think it was a good game,” said In- Raina were untroubled until Raina was memories of Australian batsman the three-match series against Smith and Finch scored freely until next over, Australia were 93-4. dian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni. bowled by Faulkner in the final over. Phillip Hughes’ death after a ball Pakistan. Jadeja had Smith caught at mid-off by Shane Watson (12) and Chris Lynn “I think we batted really well, we got Dhoni came to the crease and hit a struck his head in 2014, with New Zealand won the open- Kohli. (17) both fell trying to lift the scoring those extra runs and also the bowling six and a four from his first two balls Boult saying he did not want to ing one-dayer by 70 runs and the Ashwin then trapped Finch leg be- rate and the remaining batsmen put up was good. to take India to what proved a winning dwell on McClenaghan’s injury. second ODI will be held in Na- fore and when Jadeja dismissed new- little resistance. “It was good to see our bowlers mak- total. “It’s never a nice sight to see pier on Thursday.

BOTTOMLINE ‘The key is to do it for 15 years, not one game’

By Ali Martin “It’s amazing to win as it’s been a the emergence of Rabada and batsman pair in a victory, appears committed The Guardian while. We have been losing but we al- Temba Bavuma, who became the fi rst to Test cricket despite looking to cut ways stuck together. It’s about being black African to score a Test century his international workload. A decision positive in every game and everyone with his unbeaten 102 in Cape Town and who leads the Proteas long-term is not agiso Rabada’s feet remained played magnifi cently well - it was a averaged 49 in the series, represents the expected to be made by Cricket South fi rmly on the ground as he team eff ort. I’m happy we won and I most signifi cant positive to be drawn Africa until July. refl ected on taking 13 wickets contributed.” from the 2-1 series defeat. While they have now dropped from in his fi rst victory as a South Asked by one local reporter what it He said: “Kagiso showed the matu- fi rst to third in the world rankings, with AfricanK Test cricketer, modestly claim- felt like to carry the attack, Rabada re- rity of a guy with 100 Test matches and India going top, De Villiers believes ing that he was carried by his team- plied: “Morne Morkel, Kyle Abbott, the pace of one who’s played just one South Africa’s fi rst victory in eight Tests mates and that the key for him now will everyone in the team played well. I’m or two. It’s diffi cult to fi nd the compli- could be a turning point. be success over 15 years, not just one still a youngster, I wasn’t carrying any- ments but he’s impressed us all. He has He added: “I’m very excited about match. thing, the guys were carrying me. But to be managed and it’s up to us to man- our future and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed The 20-year-old, whose 13 for 144 the ball is coming out nicely, I felt in age him well so he’s always fresh on the captaining - the win helps for the con- saw him record the second-best match good rhythm as a the match went on.” fi eld. He is the future, guys like that al- fi dence - I’m excited about what’s com- fi gures by a South African bowler after With six months until their next Test ways excite captains I’m happy for what ing. The win is a step in the right direc- Makhaya Ntini’s 13 for 132 against West series at home to New Zealand in Au- he achieved. tion, there’s something brewing. We Indies in 2005, fi nished up as the lead- gust, there is talk of Rabada continuing “Temba looked like he belonged in have experience mixed with good youth ing wicket-taker in the series with 22 his education in English county cricket Test cricket, but it was a matter of time and lots of talent.” victims, and all in the fi nal three Tests. this summer. And while his captain, AB for him to break through. We know South Africa confi rmed seamers Dale “I focus on doing the basics right, if it de Villiers, jokingly interjected to say South Africa’s history with the racial is- Steyn and Vernon Philander will miss gets me wickets it gets me wickets,” said “No” when asked whether a deal was sues in the past, so to see two guys step the upcoming one-day series. Steyn, Rabada after just his sixth Test. “I can possible, Rabada replied: “Whatever up is what it’s all about. For me to be missing from the fi nal three Tests, has only control the controllables. I don’t infl uences my cricket in a positive man- captain for that, to see the two perform, been diagnosed with a bone-stress re- look at stats, I just do what I do and ner, I haven’t made a decision on that.” is one of the highlights of my career.” action to his right shoulder while cau- whatever happens happens. The key is For De Villiers, speaking after his De Villiers, who became just the tion will be exercised in Philander’s re- to do it for 15 years, not one game. Rabada bowls against England at Centurion yesterday. fi rst win in his second Test as captain, fourth captain in history to record a turn from ankle ligament damage. Gulf Times Wednesday, January 27, 2016 7 SPORT

NBA BASEBALL Cespedes signing, Piazza number Warriors clobber retirement warm Mets fans’ hearts

By David Lennon of Fame news conference, no less Newsday - the Mets didn’t really believe Spurs 120-90 they’d have a legitimate shot at getting him. They were holding ver remember feeling out hope the Cespedes market ‘This was a big win for us considering the emotion and the buildup’ this good about the Mets would continue to slide, and for- in January? Nearly three tunately for them, he actually did weeks before pitchers and come back around to the Mets. Ecatchers report in Port St. Lucie? That, in part, was lucky. The Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (L) dribbles the basketball And a full two months before Mets were very fortunate no against San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge during the fi rst Opening Day, which features a team apparently was willing to quarter at Oracle Arena. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports World Series rematch against the give Cespedes what he origi- Royals at Kauff man Stadium? nally was seeking, six years for We can’t. Roughly 72 hours around $150 million, and he had after the Mets delivered Yoenis aff ection for Flushing. But even Cespedes - and yes, this signing with all that, the Mets still had did feel a bit like rewarding the to pony up serious cash to keep relentless public lobbying - the him away from the Nationals’ team announced Monday that fi ve-year, $100-million off er. Mike Piazza’s No. 31 fi nally will And with a little creative think- be retired during a July 29-31 se- ing, they were able to do just ries against the Rockies. that, coming up with the kind Other than guarantee another of money they hadn’t spent on a trip to the Fall Classic in Octo- player since inking David Wright ber - and winning it this time - to his eight-year, $138-million there’s not much else the Mets contract in 2012. could have done for you so far The simple act of writing that this winter. By now, losing out on check for Cespedes, and push- Ben Zobrist feels like it happened ing the 2016 payroll to more than a few years ago. And $56 million $140 million, felt just as impor- for a super-utility guy who will tant as bringing back the guy who be 35 in May? It stung a bit at raked 17 homers with a .942 OPS the time but hardly anything to in 57 games last season. Call it a kvetch about at this point. gesture of good faith for the pay- Dare we say that odd, unfamil- ing customers, and there’s little iar, fuzzy sensation percolating doubt it will be refl ected in ticket among Mets fans these days is sales during the coming weeks. confi dence - a serious upgrade In some ways, stepping up for from cautious optimism and light Cespedes is not all that diff erent years from the usual angry winter from hanging Piazza’s beloved scepticism. Before Friday’s late- No. 31 above the left fi eld Party night Cespedes agreement on the Deck this season. All along, the three-year, $75-million deal that Mets were only waiting for Piaz- contains a player opt-out after za to get his inevitable Coopers- the whopping $27.5-million fi rst town nod, and the planning for season, most of the old narratives his July weekend was well un- still were in place. derway months before the Hall The top three being, of course, announced he had made it with DPA Reserves Shaun Livingston RESULTS 19 with 12 rebounds, and the points, and Mike Conley added payroll, payroll and payroll. Re- 83.0 percent of the vote. Los Angeles and Brandon Rush had 13 points Cavaliers (31-12) gave Tyronn fi ve of his 12 in an 8-2 overtime gardless of the Mets’ return to re- Just like with the “Sign Ces- apiece while Marresse Speights Golden State 120 Antonio 90 Lue his fi rst win as head coach session, as the Grizzlies (26-20) spectability last season, as long pedes” drumbeat, Mets fans had added 12 for the league-best Sacramento 128 Charlotte 129 (OT) after trimming the visiting Tim- sent the visiting Magic (20-23) as Cespedes remained available, been clamouring for years to he highly-anticipated Warriors (41-4), who enjoyed Denver 105 Atlanta 119 berwolves. Lue lost Saturday’s to a sixth straight loss. and they weren’t bidding on him, have Piazza’s number retired, a match-up between the their second biggest win over Utah 92 Detroit 95 debut to Chicago after taking zMiami Heat 89, Chicago Sandy Alderson and the Wilpons very exclusive club for this fran- NBA’s elite teams was a their Western Conference foes Chicago 84 Miami 89 over for the fi red David Blatt on Bulls 84: Dwyane Wade tossed would continue to be blasted for chise. Piazza becomes only the mismatch. in franchise history. Memphis 108 Orlando 102 (OT) Friday. Karl Anthony-Towns in 28 points, Chris Bosh added sitting on their wallet. fourth Met to be so honored — TReigning league MVP Stephen Curry put on a put on a shoot- had 26 points with 11 rebounds 18, including the tie-breaking The Mets had made some incre- joining Tom Seaver, Gil Hodges New Orleans 111 Houston 112 Curry fi red in six triples en route ing clinic against the top defen- for the T-Wolves (14-32), who jumper with 61 seconds left, mental improvements - replacing and Casey Stengel — and it could to 37 points before sitting out sive club missing future Hall of Cleveland 114 Minnesota 107 suff ered their ninth straight and the Heat (24-21) snapped Daniel Murphy with Neil Walker, be a while for the next one. the fourth quarter and the de- Famer Tim Duncan because of Washington 91 Boston 116 road loss. a four-game slide after beating adding an everyday shortstop in The Mets obviously hold fending NBA Champion Golden right knee soreness. The league’s zBoston Celtics 116, the Bulls. Spaniard Pau Gasol Asdrubal Cabrera, giving $12 mil- many others in high regard, and State Warriors dominated the top scorer poured in 19 points there as far as their toughness Washington Wizards 91: had 19 points and 17 rebounds lion to lefty reliever Antonio Bas- are acutely aware of how their San Antonio Spurs 120-90 on and the Warriors shot nearly 59 and aggressiveness in every fac- Isaiah Thomas scored 23 points to pace the Bulls (25-19), who tardo - but none of those truly fans feel about 1986 stars such Monday for their 39th consecu- per cent from in the fi eld and led et of the game tonight,” Spurs to lead six teammates in double played without guard Derrick moved the needle. as Keith Hernandez and the late tive home win, with 21 coming 62-47 at halftime. coach Gregg Popovich said. fi gures, and the visiting Celtics Rose in the second half because Or satiated a demanding fan Gary Carter. But for now, the this season. Curry continued to shoot “You have to give them credit. (25-21) completed a 4-0 season of a lower back and hamstring base that never took its eyes off team feels comfortable with Pi- “This was a big win for us lights out, going off for 18 more We have a long way to go to play series sweep over the Wizards injuries. Cespedes. When Alderson dis- azza, especially as just the sec- considering the emotion and points, including a trio of tri- with those guys.” (20-23). zAtlanta Hawks 119, Den- missed the Cespedes obsession ond Met to wear that cap on his the buildup,” said Curry. “And ples in the 33-18 third quarter, Elsewhere: zHouston Rockets 112, ver Nuggets 105: Paul Millsap as “populism” - at Piazza’s Hall Hall of Fame plaque. to back it up with this type of and the Warriors carried a com- zCharlotte Hornets 129, New Orleans Pelicans 111: led fi ve teammates in double play is great.” manding 95-65 cushion into Sacramento Kings 128 (2 James Harden had 35 points, fi gures with 22 points, and the The showdown of the NBA’s the fi nal frame before coasting OT): DeMarcus Cousins set 11 rebounds and eight assists, Hawks (27-19) ended an eight- YOENIS CESPEDES best clubs with a combined 78- home. a Sacramento record with 56 Trevor Ariza netted a season- game drought in Denver (17-28), 10 record was the best of any “They’ll probably never play points, the most in the NBA this high 31, including six triples, with their fi rst victory since two after 40 games in league that poorly against us again,” season but it wasn’t enough. and the visiting Rockets (25-22) 2006. history. But the hype was better Kerr added. Troy Daniels scored a personal- won their third in a row after zDetroit Pistons 95, Utah than the contest and the War- “It’s just one game, the score best 28, including the go-ahead edging the host Pelicans, who Jazz 92: Reggie Jackson scored riors easily snapped the Spurs’ doesn’t mean anything and we triple - his eighth of the game lost All-Star forward Antho- 29 points and the Pistons (24- season-high 13-game winning move on.” - with nine seconds left lift- ny Davis to concussion in the 21) held off the Jazz (19-25) streak while sending the Silver Kawhi Leonard scored 16 ing the visiting Hornets (22-23) second quarter. Jrue Holiday when Gordon Hayward missed a to their worst loss since 2012. points for the Spurs (38-7), who over the Kings (20-24). topped New Orleans (17-28) potential game-tying 3-pointer “Our guys were excited and committed a season-high 26 zCleveland Cavaliers 114, with a season-best 32 points. on the fi nal play of the game. ready to play tonight,” Warriors turnovers, resulting in 32 War- Minnesota Timberwolves zMemphis Grizzlies 108, Rodney Hood topped Utah (19- coach Steve Kerr said. “It was riors points in the beat-down. 107: LeBron James scored 25 Orlando Magic 102 (OT): Jeff 25) with 23 points while Hay- our night it wasn’t theirs.” “It was like men to boys out points, Tristan Thompson had Green scored a season-high 30 ward fi nished with 22.

NHL Stars beat Calgary 2-1 in their last game before break

By Mike Heika RESULTS sively talented the Stars can be. Valeri The Dallas Morning News Nichushkin made a smart play to cir- Dallas 2 Calgary 1 cle around the net in the off ensive zone Minnesota 1 Arizona 2 (SO) and fl ip a pass to Benn entering the slot. s roller coaster rides go, the Stars NY Rangers 6 Buff alo 3 The Stars captain then dangled the puck are pretty happy with the thrills NY Islanders 2 Detroit 4 around a defenseman and the goalie before so far. Philadelphia 2 Boston 3 tucking it in for his 28th goal of the season. Getting a hard-fought 2-1 Columbus 5 Montreal 2 Two shifts later, defenseman John Awin over Calgary on Monday at American Klingberg received a hard rim at the right Airlines Center, Dallas hits Game No. 50 point and immediately rocketed a pass to at 31-14-5 (67 points) and heads into the Ramo was on his game, and the Stars de- Spezza at the net. The veteran forward NHL All-Star break with a feeling of relief cided they couldn’t get too wild. They did easily lifted in his 17th goal of the season ... and even accomplishment. that Saturday against Colorado and ended for a 2-0 lead at the 4:03 mark of the sec- Yes a win over a tired Flames team that up losing 3-1. Even though the Stars had a ond period. lost Sunday at Carolina was probably ex- 43-15 advantage in shots on goal against Benn has six points in the past 10 games pected. the Avalanche, it got too greedy at times and has hit a speedbump in his campaign, Yes, a 3-6-2 run through January is and made mistakes. but he showed the form that won the Art hardly reason for celebration. “The biggest thing is eliminate the big Ross Trophy last season as the league’s But the Stars have wrangled this stretch mistakes,” Stars coach Lindy Ruff said leading scorer. Klingberg has been in the like a bear in the woods and lived to tell before the game. “We handed the biggest worst slump of his brief NHL career, but about it. They are in second place in the quality opportunities to the opposition he showed the vision that earned him a Western Conference and have a pretty (last game) and I think that if we eliminate seven-year contract extension. good chance to make the playoff s for just that and take advantage of our high-quali- After that, the Stars dug in on defense the second time in the past eight seasons. ty situations, we’ll win a game.” Ales Goligoski, Johnny Oduya and Jason And, just maybe, they are better for the The Stars were aggressive, but cau- Demers were particularly steady against a adversity. tious against the Flames. As a result, Antti Flames team that made one last hard push “It’s a long season, we all know that,” Niemi faced just three shots in a scoreless in the third period. When Calgary was able said defenseman Johnny Oduya. “You fi rst period. While Dallas wanted to break to fi ght through the defense, Niemi came have to play all of the games and take them an off ensive drought, it knew it couldn’t up big in net and pushed his record to 18- one at a time. It’s what we all say, but it re- get impatient. That strategy paid off when 9-5. ally is true.” Jamie Benn and Jason Spezza scored two All in all, it was a satisfactory ride that Dallas Stars left wing Jamie Benn (14) scores a goal against Calgary Flames goalie Karri Ramo Monday’s game was a battle. Dal- goals in a span of 80 seconds in the second left a sold out crowd with a calm stomach. during the second period at the American Airlines Center. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports las came out fl ying and tried to bury the period. At least until the stretch run starts Feb. 2 Flames early, but Calgary goalie Karri Both were displays of just how off en- after the All-Star break. Gulf Times 8 Wednesday, January 27, 2016 SPORT

NFL Manning vs Rivera: What has changed since Super Bowl XLI? ‘As he moves down the line and turns and talks to his guys, our guys have to understand that’s just part of choreographed motion’

By David Haugh Chicago Tribune PEYTON MANNING RON RIVERA

he last time Ron Rivera tried to outsmart Peyton Manning with the Su- per Bowl on the line, he Tstudied acting. Rivera, the Bears defensive coordinator opposite Man- ning’s Colts nine years ago in Super Bowl XLI, devoted count- less hours to watching televi- sion broadcasts of Colts games, in addition to the coach’s tape, to clue into any of the quarter- back’s pre-snap cues. I still remember Rivera mar- velling during a pre-Super Bowl media session in Miami at how diffi cult it would be to determine whether there was any meaning behind Manning’s many ges- tures. “As he moves down the line and turns and talks to his guys, our guys have to understand that’s just part of the choreo- graphed motion he has, (but) when he’s set, you better be ready,” Rivera said then. “With his ability to make adjustments, he can kill you.” And Manning did just that, killing the Bears slowly and earning Most Valuable Player honours in a 29-17 victory. He completed 25 of 38 passes for 247 yards and a touchdown — taking advantage of a Bears miscom- munication in the secondary — as the Colts off ense gashed Riv- era’s defense for 430 total yards. wasn’t the case February 4, 2007, and carry the off ense the way it Rivera’s role as a linebacker on and Star Lotulelei wreaking hav- goans, what with the city’s NBA zations better. But one of Fox’s Manning again stands be- when Rex Grossman started for did in the AFC championship that historic unit, but in relation oc, you wonder if it reminds him team led by a Bulls legend and previous employers will make tween Rivera and an NFL title, the Bears opposite the Colts and victory over the Patriots. Isn’t it to his current defense, a more apt of how Tommie Harris and Tank its NFL team coached by an ‘85 history he wanted to make there, but things are much diff erent Manning. The potential for of- odd for Manning to play in a Su- comparison is to the ‘06 Bears. Johnson did it for him with the Bear. and only he knows how that this time as Rivera’s Panthers fensive explosiveness on his own per Bowl in which his opponent It starts with middle lineback- Bears. To more of our provincial de- feels. prepare for the Broncos in Su- team promises to make this Su- gets the edge at quarterback? er Luke Kuechly, whose athleti- Cornerback Josh Norman even light, the big game will carry a It’s a copycat league, but the per Bowl 50. For one, Manning per Bowl buildup much diff erent That said, nobody expects the cism in the 4-3 alignment allows emerged as a Pro Bowler with the distinct local fl avor too. Bears have no plans to fi re Fox will be the oldest quarterback to for Rivera. In Carolina, Newton’s Panthers to underestimate Man- him to make plays to save his Panthers, similar to how Nathan Both head coaches — Gary tomorrow morning and start start a Super Bowl, and he fools law is to expect greatness. ning, not with Rivera likely still defense the way Brian Urlacher Vasher did with the Bears. Cor- Kubiak of the Broncos and Riv- making plans to play in the 2017 people at the line — and in the Rivera doesn’t necessar- scarred from their last encoun- used to for the Bears. nerback Charles Tillman, who era — replaced John Fox; Rivera Super Bowl. pocket — much less frequently ily need his Panthers defense to ter on football’s largest stage. Weak-side linebacker Tho- will miss the Super Bowl with in Carolina in 2011 and Kubiak Though I did hear from several than he did in his prime. play the perfect game against How intriguing that the Pan- mas Davis, who will try to play an injury, is another common in Denver a year ago. Fox took optimistic fans who took solace But the biggest diff erence for Manning, as he needed with the thers defense resembles the one despite a broken forearm, com- thread connecting both teams. both teams to the Super Bowl, in Fox’s former teams squaring Rivera will be the ability to rely Bears. With Newton playing at Rivera coached with the Bears, plements Kuechly similar to how Da Panthers defense has a so it would be unfair to cast as- off in Santa Clara, Calif., and on his own star quarterback, an MVP level, the pressure rests especially up front. There will Lance Briggs did to Urlacher. defi nitive Chicago accent. The persions on his tenures with the wondering if that meant the Cam Newton, rather than live or on Von Miller and the Broncos be much conversation this week Up front, when Rivera sees sports scene in Charlotte also Panthers or Broncos. Without Bears might be only one move die on defense alone. That just defense to dominate the game surrounding the ‘85 Bears, given disruptive tackles Kawann Short has something to amuse Chica- question, he made both organi- away from the Super Bowl.

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS QREC participates at Asian Doha Open boxing Racing Conference from February 15-17

By Sports Reporter Doha

ill last year, boxing was a relatively un- known sport in Qatar. All that changed last year when Doha hosted the AIBA World Boxing Championship in October. TBefore that, in May, the Qatar Boxing Fed- eration (QBF) had hosted the Doha International Championship, a test event for the AIBA Worlds. Fans thronged the AIBA Worlds, most of the bouts witnessed a full house, and world boxing’s elite, including AIBA president Ching-Kuo Wu, praised the QBF for hosting “one of the best organised World Championships ever”. Now, to carry the momentum forward, the QBF plans to host the Doha Open, an open air boxing competition. The February 15 to 17 event will be held in Ka- QBF president Yousuf Ali al-Kazim. tara beach, next to the amphitheatre, so as to al- low the fans to have a unique experience. outdoors, during the winter. There will be another “The main aim is to promote the sport of boxing tournament in May,” he added. According to al- in Qatar,” said QBF president Yousuf Ali al-Kazim. Kazim, Qatar has a very strong fi le as it scores high “The event was fi rst held in 2001, and then in in safety and security, not to mention the well- Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club chairman Nasser Sherida al-Kaabi speaks at the 36th Asian Racing Conference in Mumbai yesterday. PICTURE: Juhaim 2008, but was not held regularly since then. We equipped sports facilities, professional sports last held it in 2014 at the Qatar Sports Club and management and great infrastructure. Agencies ference in Mumbai and extended “We are very proud of our Al-Kaabi revealed a strategy it proved to be a big hit with both Qatari and ex- “The boxing events here have created the right Mumbai a special thanks to the Asian support to Qatar’s growth in rac- for the coming years to bring the patriate boxers. The event will give local boxers a kind of atmosphere for the sport to grow,” he said. Racing Federation chairman ing, breeding and the investment competition to Doha and exuded chance to showcase their skills while for the spec- “We have plans to regularly stage events so that Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges in our facilities,” he said. confi dence that they could reach tators, it will be a great opportunity to experience youngsters can take up the sport seriously. If our atar Racing and and Asian Racing Conference “Internationally, we were their goals with the support of live action in open air.” technical teams feel someone has the talent, we Equestrian Club organising committee chairman honoured by the announcement their partners. “We need to promote the sport and attract are ready to off er him training.” (QREC) general man- Dr Cyrus Poonawalla. that one of our fl agship races, the Concluding his presentation, more fans. Boxing may be a relatively new sport The event is open to all residents of Qatar, ir- ager Nasser Sherida After a video presentation Qatar Prix de L’Arc de Triom- he extended a warm welcome to in Qatar, but the World Championships showed respective of their nationalities. al-KaabiQ addressed the delegates about Qatar and the highlights of phe, in partnership with France the delegates to visit Doha dur- that boxing has a bright future in the country. The “But they have to clear the medical and techni- at the 36th Asian Racing Con- Qatar’s horse racing industry, al- Galop, was crowned the 2015 ing HH Emir’s Sword races be- competition is open to all boxers in Doha as well cal requirements. We have selected some 35 local ference at the Trident Hotel in Kaabi spoke about the ongoing Longines World’s Best Horse tween February 26 and 28. as judges and referees, all of whom can participate boxers from last year’s event who will be compet- Mumbai yesterday. development and future plans Race.” Apart from the general man- in the competition. This is going to be a unique ing with others. We hope to unearth some qual- Al-Kaabi, the chief of the Qa- for horse racing and equestrian Qatar’s involvement in pres- ager, QREC was represented event. Since it will be held in the open, I hope a ity boxers from this competition. It also will be a tar delegation, made a presenta- across all levels. tigious global events was also by Racing secretary Abdullah lot of fans will turn to watch it,” al-Kazim added. good chance for our locally trained referees and tion on Industry Profi les during The QREC general manager highlighted in the partnership Rashid al-Kobeissi, Media head The QBF chief also has set out his plans for fu- coaches to learn how to manage boxers in the ring. one of the business sessions. drew focus on Qatar’s involve- with Goodwood racecourse and Jawaher Sultan al-Suwaidi, chief ture events. Besides conducting the Doha Open We hope to see the participation of around 100 Making his opening remarks, ment in horse racing and the the tremendous success of the steward David McGillivray and annually, he also hopes to introduce a couple of boxers in the competition,” al-Kazim said, adding al-Kaabi thanked all the del- breeding industry on a national fi rst Qatar Goodwood Festival Thoroughbred Stud Book deputy other tournaments. that registrations for the Doha Open, which are egates for being part of the con- and international level. held in the UK in July 2015. keeper Lal Mani Yadav. “We’re planning to host a competition, maybe already open, will close on February 13. Gulf Times Wednesday, January 27, 2016 9 AUSTRALIAN OPEN

SPOTLIGHT Murray hoping for no more nasty surprises

AFP Against this backdrop of un- nent and Murray knows it will be knows what he has to do to over- Melbourne certainty the Scot has come a physically demanding battle if come the 23rd-seeded French- through four rounds, includ- he is to progress. man. ing a scrappy three-setter over “He’s very entertaining and ndy Murray is hoping all unorthodox Australian Bernard ‘MAKE HIM FEEL he’s very diffi cult to play. He the nasty surprises are Tomic on Monday to set up his UNCOMFORTABLE’ can give you complete ends of behind him as he heads last-eight duel with Ferrer. Meanwhile, Milos Raonic will the spectrum within one game,” into today’s quarter- Murray leads their head-to- get another chance to close the Raonic said. Afi nal at the Australian Open in no head 12-6, and has mastered him gap on the men’s elite against “So it’s very much of an inter- doubt what to expect from tough at the last fi ve meetings. This explosive Frenchman Gael Mon- nal match for me. I just have to Spaniard David Ferrer. will be their fi fth Grand Slam en- fi ls in today’s other bottom-half take the game to him. I have to The world number two was counter, and the four-time Aus- quarter-fi nal. make him feel uncomfortable. rocked by a family health emer- tralian Open runner-up knows The world number 14 Raonic Not let him get into his sort of gency when his father-in-law exactly what’s coming. has turned heads in Australia, playing comfort. Nigel Sears, Ana Ivanovic’s “He works extremely hard. beating Roger Federer in the “If I can keep up with the effi - coach, collapsed at the tourna- He’s in good shape. He fi ghts Brisbane International fi nal and ciency moving forward, I’ll have ment and was rushed to hospital so hard in every single match,” ANDY MURRAY reaching the last eight in Mel- defi nitely some opportunities.” on Saturday. Murray said of the intense Fer- bourne thanks to his fi rst ever Monfi ls, who cut and bruised Murray said he would have rer. “He’s been rewarded for win over fourth-ranked Stan himself with an acrobatic dive in pulled out of the tournament if that with an unbelievably con- Wawrinka. the last round, is playing in his the news was bad about Sears, sistent career at the top of the The huge-serving Canadian, fi rst Australian Open quarter- but the 58-year-old made a game.” who says he has found a new fi nal and he has noticed a change quick recovery and was cleared Murray is perhaps relieved calm under his coach Carlos in Raonic this year. to leave hospital the next day. that he has it in his own hands Moya, fought back to eliminate “Milos is in good form. Com- Adding to Murray’s predica- to fi nd a way to overcome Ferrer, the 2014 winner in fi ve sets but ing in with a win in Brisbane. As ment was that his wife Kim Sears rather than cope with off -court can’t believe something like that tired. Defi nitely on the court gel’s on his way home now and he now faces a diff erent chal- we know, a big serve,” he said. is heavily pregnant and he has matters out of his control. happened a few days ago. It’s (against Tomic) I was more emo- can be back with his family.” lenge against the energetic Mon- “Actually, I think he has im- said he will quit the Australian “It’s been a hard, hard few shocking. Nige is an unbeliev- tional than normal. Ferrer’s supreme fi tness and fi ls. proved his movement a lot, hit- Open and rush home if she goes days. Hopefully, it gets better the ably fi t guy. Very, very scary. “It certainly wasn’t straight- eagerness to chase down every Raonic, who is looking for ting big from the baseline, and into labour. next few days,” he said. “I just “I felt quite drained, quite forward. I’m just glad that Ni- ball makes him a diffi cult oppo- his fi rst win in three meetings, has a good return.”

REPORT FOCUS Hingis-Mirza in doubles semis, Djokovic, Federer set Murray continues British charge

Reuters In the men’s doubles, Brit- Melbourne ish fortunes continued to soar up dream semi-fi nal with Jamie Murray reaching the semi-fi nals with new Bra- artina Hingis and zilian partner Bruno Soares. ‘There’s a lot of tension. There’s a lot at stake. I’m expecting a great fight in two days’ Sania Mirza ex- They edged out 13th seeds tended their win- Raven Klaasen and Rajeev ning streak to 34 Ram, conquerors of six-times Mmatches to reach the Austral- champions the Bryan brothers, ian Open semi-fi nals with vic- 6-7(3) 6-4 7-6(3) yesterday. tory over German-American On Monday, Andy Mur- duo Anna-Lena Groenefeld ray and Johanna Konta both and Coco Vandeweghe yester- reached the quarter-fi nals of day. the singles—the fi rst time in Swiss Hingis, 35, the former nearly 40 years Britain has singles number one whose ca- had a representative in the last reer has blossomed again as a eight of the men’s and wom- doubles specialist, is also in en’s singles at a grand slam. the quarter-fi nals of the mixed Murray and Soares, who doubles with another Indian won the Sydney title in only partner, Leander Paes, and their second tournament to- will face top seeds Mirza and gether, face French duo Adrian Ivan Dodig. Mannarino and Lucas Pouille Top seeds Hingis and Mirza, in the semis after they sur- who teamed up last March and prised top seeds Jean-Julien won the Wimbledon and the Rojer and Horia Tecau in three U.S. Open titles, came through sets. 6-2 4-6 6-1 against Groen- In the other half of the efeld and Vandeweghe. draw Daniel Nestor and Radek They will face German Julia Stepanek beat Treat Huey and Goerges and her Czech partner Max Mirnyi, while Pablo Cue- Karolina Pliskova for a place in vas and Marcel Granollers beat the fi nal. Vasek Pospisil and Jack Sock.

Serbia’s Novak Djokovic gestures during his men’s singles match against Japan’s Kei Nishikori Switzerland’s Roger Federer celebrates during his quarter-final match against at the Australian Open in Melbourne yesterday. (AFP) Czech Republic’s Tomas Berdych at the Australian Open yesterday. (Reuters)

AFP fi nals last year on his way to “I couldn’t make him work Melbourne winning three Grand Slam titles hard today. I mean, yes, he and fi nishing runner-up at the played good. But I couldn’t play My bad! Federer sorry for French Open. The Serb made 100 good tennis today.” Tomic rankings gaff e ovak Djokovic ham- unforced errors and was pushed Earlier Federer reached his mered an off -key Kei all the way in Sunday’s fi ve-set 12th Australian Open semi- Roger Federer apologised yesterday after he sparked a row with Nishikori and Roger struggle with Simon, but he said fi nal in 13 years with a clinical Bernard Tomic by upbraiding the Australian about his work-rate— Federer put on a mas- a day away from tennis had done straight-sets win over Berdych without checking his ranking first. Federer told Tomic he had to Nterclass against Tomas Berdych him the world of good. in two hours, 16 minutes. The work harder if he wanted to reach the top 10, prompting Tomic to as they set up a dream semi-fi nal “I didn’t practice yesterday. I Swiss has high hopes he can add point out that the Swiss great was also some way away from the at the Australian Open yester- didn’t hit a tennis ball,” he said. a fi fth Australian Open title, level of top-ranked Novak Djokovic. But Federer admitted yesterday day. “It happens sometimes, it’s ac- even though his last Grand Slam that he made the comments thinking Tomic was still ranked at Defending champion Djokovic tually good to rest your mind, success was back at Wimbledon about 50th in the world. When he checked the rankings, he realised recovered strongly from his fi ve- rest your body. Less is more in 2012. “It means a lot. It’s part he had risen to 17. set struggle against Gilles Simon sometimes.” of the reason why I’m still play- “I didn’t know his ranking was as high as it was, to be quite honest. as he ousted Nishikori 6-3, 6-2, ing,” Federer said. “I feel like I’m I thought he was like 50 or 60 and he was top 20,” Federer said. 6-4, after Federer swept aside ‘It means a lot’ competitive at the top. I can beat “That was my bad, to be honest. But I don’t check the rankings every Berdych 7-6 (7/4), 6-2, 6-4. Tomorrow’s semi-fi nal prom- all the guys on tour. “It’s nice day. I came from the off -season. I had no clue what was going on Djokovic is seeking his 11th ises to be a test of Djokovic’s now that in the last three Slams anymore.” Grand Slam title while Federer, continued dominance of men’s that I’ve been as consistent as I “But I still believe it’s a big diff erence top 10 for a week or for a 34, is looking to extend his record tennis, after his achievement have been.” year or for multiple years, and getting there is not easy. “It’s a lot of tally to 18 -- and both will want in losing only one Grand Slam Federer said he was enjoying dedication, a lot of hard work. There’s a lot of guys who have the po- to take charge of their head-to- match last season. his tennis after adding former tential right now, not just him. That’s why I think it got brought up in head, which is locked at 22-22. In a sign of the pair’s hold on world number three Ivan Ljubi- many ways.” Federer also warned wayward Australian Nick Kyrgios “Any round (against Federer) men’s tennis, Federer is into cic to his coaching team, along that the next two years are vital to realising his huge potential on feels like a fi nal because of the fact his 39th Grand Slam semi-fi nal with long-time mentor Severin the tennis circuit after a rocky patch in young career. The controver- that we are, you know, big rivals, while Djokovic has 29. They were Luthi. “I’m playing good ten- sial 20-year-old has polarised opinion over his behaviour on and off we played so many times against both on court for little over two nis, fun tennis for me anyway. I the court, and he bowed out acrimoniously in the Australian Open each other,” Djokovic said. hours yesterday. really enjoy being able to come third round against Tomas Berdych. “I think he’s a great player. I “There’s a lot of tension. Djokovic only hit 11 ground- to the net more like back in the think he’s enjoyable to watch. I know some people might not like it. I There’s a lot at stake. I’m ex- stroke winners in disposing of day. like it. He’s got a lot of personality,” the Swiss great said. But Federer pecting a great fi ght in two days. Nishikori, who made a total of “So I’m very pleased. It would warned: “The advice I would give him, just that he’s aware of the Both players will have a close 54 unforced errors and had his mean a lot to me (to win more fact how important the next couple of years are. Otherwise the train eye on Wednesday’s quarter-fi - service broken six times. Slams), no doubt about it.” leaves the station and you’re maybe not on it. “It would be a pity to nals pitting Andy Murray against “I think today was more The world number three had waste talent and all that even more so in this day and age because I David Ferrer and Milos Raonic (about) my game. I was missing few concerns against the strong- feel talent brought you further back in the day. “Just talking about a against Gael Monfi ls. too much, especially fi rst couple serving Berdych and extended guy who has talent and potential, I can’t hear it anymore. Too many India’s Sania Mirza (R) and Switzerland’s Martina Hingis speak Djokovic will start as favourite sets. Lost many easy games,” said his career record to 16-6 to deny guys have talent. Too many guys are working hard. I don’t believe in between points during their women’s doubles match against against Federer after he beat him Nishikori, who was also troubled the Czech a third straight semi- that very much any more.” Germany’s Anna-Lena Groenefeld and Coco Vandeweghe of the US in the Wimbledon and US Open by a leg injury. fi nal appearance in Melbourne. on day nine of the Australian Open in Melbourne yesterday. (AFP) Gulf Times 10 Wednesday, January 27, 2016 SPORT

TENNIS No alternative to Coe for IAAF presidency, says Hansen World athletics chief Sebas- tian Coe is the right man to Serena thumps Maria lead the sport out of its dop- ing and corruption crisis and he has the support of all the European federations, Eu- ropean Athletics president Svein Arne Hansen said. The British former Olympic 1,500 metres champion was for Agnieszka semi elected head of the IAAF last year as the scandal hit the sport following reports ‘Experience is very important in tennis. I’m happy to have that and I’ll be ready for the semi’ by German broadcaster ARD and the Sunday Times newspaper. AFP “He is the duly elected. I Melbourne see no alternative to him,” Hansen told Reuters yes- terday. “Seb is honest and orld number one Serena Wil- a man of integrity. He has liams muscled past Maria the full support, as far as I Sharapova for an 18th straight know, from all 51 (European) time yesterday to set up an federations.” WAustralian Open semi-fi nal against Ag- European federations were nieszka Radwanska, who has never beaten by no means overwhelm- the dominant American. ingly in support of Coe in The six-time Melbourne Park champion the presidential vote with heaped more misery on her long-time ri- many backing his opponent val 6-4, 6-1, with the Russian fi fth seed Sergey Bubka, who secured stretching her demoralising unbeaten run 92 votes to Coe’s 115. against the American great to 12 years. An independent commission With Sharapova again swatted aside, the for the World Anti-Doping 34-year-old Williams, gunning to match Agency (WADA) revealed Steffi Graf’s Open-era Grand Slam record widespread, state-spon- of 22 titles, now has the composed Pole in sored doping in Russia in her sights. The signs are not good for Rad- the first part of a report late wanska, who easily disposed of Spanish 10th last year. Earlier this month, seed Carla Suarez 6-1, 6-3 win on Rod Laver the commission released Arena. While her record against Williams is the second part which ac- not yet on the scale of Sharapova, it is still cused the IAAF of having dismal. She has played her eight times since “embedded corruption” at 2008 and lost the lot, taking just one set the very top of the organisa- along the way. tion under former president Another ominous fact facing the Pole is Lamine Diack. Coe has also that every time defending champion Wil- had to face questions about liams has got past the quarter-fi nals at resignation after having Melbourne Park, she has gone on to win the spent seven years as IAAF tournament. Vice President under Diack Ahead of the Williams-Sharapova show- but he has denied any down, Radwanska, also a semi-fi nalist last knowledge of his president’s year, said she did not mind who she faced in alleged activities. the last four clash on Thursday. Open support from the “I have nothing to lose and it does not powerful European athletics matter who I play. Hopefully I can play my federations will be wel- best tennis or I’ll be in trouble,” said the comed by Coe, who also had popular 26-year-old, who is on a 13-match to drop a long-standing con- win streak. The Pole added that the expe- tract with U.S. firm Nike after rience she gained from making the Wim- taking over the IAAF due to bledon fi nal in 2012 and three other major calls of conflict of interest. semis would be crucial. “Experience is very Diack and his son, Papa Mas- important in tennis. I’m happy to have that sata, are both under formal and I’ll be ready for the semi,” she said. Serena Williams (R) shakes hands with Maria Sharapova after winning their match on day nine of the 2016 Australian Open in Melbourne yesterday. (AFP) investigation in France on Her big-match experience pales in com- suspicion of corruption and parison to Williams who has won 21 Grand control with an early break in the second set. money-laundering linked to Slam titles, including six at Melbourne Park, The Russian began wilting and Williams, Sharapova must play Fed Cup or miss Olympics: Federation the concealment of positive and played in four other fi nals at the majors. who won three majors—the Australian and drug tests in concert with “She a great defender and a great girl,” French Opens and Wimbledon—last year, Russia’s tennis federation chief yesterday warned Maria likely to compete for Russia in the next Fed Cup clash as Russian off icials. Both men Williams said of Radwanska. “Regardless, which took her to within one of Graf’s record Sharapova she must play for the Fed Cup team or risk she needed to rest. I’m going to go and take care of my have denied wrongdoing whoever gets to the fi nal it will be a great of 22, kept her foot to the fl oor and turned missing out on the Rio Olympics in August. forearm first. I think that’s really important,” Sharapova and the Russian athletics thing. I have nothing to lose.” the contest into a rout. Sharapova said that she is unlikely to play for Russia said. “I’m going to go to Moscow, be part of the team. I federation has been banned It meant the fi ve-time Grand Slam win- in the Fed Cup opening round against Netherlands on don’t think I’ll be playing. Then I’m not sure.” with the Rio de Janeiro Ol- ‘Back to the drawing board’ ner’s demoralising jinx against one of the February 6-7, after crashing out of the Australian Open However, the Russia tennis supremo has called on the ympics only months away. On a scorching hot day, the sluggish greatest players ever remains intact. yesterday. country’s top player—who won a silver medal at the “This was a further wake-up 34-year-old, the oldest world number one in It dates back to 2004 when she last beat “If Sharapova wants to compete at the Olympics she has London Games in 2012 -- to reconsider her choice. for all of us,” Hansen said WTA history, was slow to get going against her in the Wimbledon fi nal. Her downfall to play for Russia in the Fed Cup,” the R-Sport agency “If she withdraws from playing with Netherlands and of the second part of the Sharapova. She was broken on her opening started in an epic semi-fi nal at the 2005 quoted tennis boss Shamil Tarpishchev as saying. we lose the match she will not play at the Olympics,” WADA report. serve but soon got on the scoreboard as her Australian Open, with the American scrap- “That’s the rule and she needs either to play against Tarpishchev said. “We have zero tolerance and power serve found its range and her game ing home in a 2-6, 7-5, 8-6 thriller. Netherlands or in Russia’s next Fed Cup match if we “Probably Sharapova has issued her statement too we want to increase anti- started coming together. Despite yet another defeat, Sharapova manage to go through.” rashly. I think she and her managers should consider doping activities. We cannot It was a typically tight fi rst set against her insisted it kept her motivated to keep im- Sharapova, 28, was dumped out of the Australian Open their decision once again.” tolerate that. We will make long-time rival but she fi nally came through proving. “It’s motivating because she’s at a with a 6-4, 6-1 defeat to Serena Williams in the quarter- Earlier this month, Russia’s team captain Anastasia sure we follow and make after a brutal 55 minutes. Williams, who only diff erent level. She makes you go back to the finals, after which the former world number one com- Myskina said the world number five had confirmed she sure IAAF follows as well,” lost three matches in 56 last season, called drawing board, not just for me, but for many plained of a niggling forearm injury. would play, alongside Svetlana Kuznetsova, Ekaterina he added. the trainer out at the changeover, apparently other players,” she said. In the wake of her defeat Sharapova said she was un- Makarova and Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova. feeling unwell, but soldiered on and took “She makes you work. That’s inspiring.”

SPOTLIGHT CGF, ICSS Europe sign agreement to protect sport

By Sports Reporter ganisations across all sectors, “This new collaboration with Doha ICSS EUROPE will also inde- the Commonwealth Games Fed- pendently audit the CGF’s gov- eration is an important mile- ernance model and assist with stone for ICSS EUROPE and we he Commonwealth the development of a code of acknowledge and fully support Games Federation (CGF) conduct on sports betting and the vital role that the CGF plays has announced a col- integrity to maintain the Com- in developing sport across the laboration with the In- monwealth Games body’s posi- Commonwealth. Tternational Centre for Sport tion as a global leader in the fi eld “On behalf of the ICSS, I Security Europe (ICSS Europe) of sports policy, governance and would like to thank the Com- to work together to help protect integrity. The signing took place monwealth Games Federation and safeguard Commonwealth at a reception in the House of for its commitment to safe- sport. Commons with the special per- guarding sport and look forward As part of the far-reaching mission of the Rt. Hon John Ber- to advancing eff orts with them cooperation agreement, the cow MP, Speaker of the House of to address the very real challeng- CGF and ICSS EUROPE will Commons. es sport now faces to its integrity work in partnership to promote The function gathered key and credibility.” the highest standards of good stakeholders from sport, busi- CEO of ICSS EUROPE Dr governance, transparency and ness and government to further Emanuel Macedo de Medeiros, integrity in sport. The CGF will ongoing eff orts to establish a said: “Recent events have shown also collaborate with ICSS EU- new global alliance for sport that there is a real and urgent ROPE as it looks to help encour- integrity, address current chal- need for a new approach to the age the development of a global lenges facing the sporting in- integrity and governance of sport. independent, neutral, multi- dustry and develop new thinking What is also clear is that this new stakeholder integrity alliance around much-needed and long- approach must be credible, coor- for sport. overdue reforms. dinated, holistic and global. The agreement is built on the Speaking on the occasion, “This agreement with the shared belief that sport is an ac- CBE Chief Executive of the Commonwealth Games Fed- tivity that, when governed cor- Commonwealth Games Fed- eration demonstrates a growing rectly and with integrity, is a eration David Grevemberg, momentum developing across powerful tool that contributes said: “As a values-driven move- a range of sectors to protect and to achieving a number of goals, ment connecting athletes and safeguard sport integrity. including promoting health and communities across the Com- It also represents a unique well-being, physical activity, monwealth, we are proud to be opportunity for ICSS EUROPE education, youth empowerment, a leading voice in the drive to Mohamed Hanzab with David Grevemberg and Emanuel Medeiros during the agreement signing ceremony. and CGF to make a real diff er- gender equality, social cohesion protect, promote and safeguard ence to sport across the Com- and inclusion, cultural integration sport and look forward to a suc- lars of Transformation 2022, and able and prosperous communi- challenges to the integrity of key organisations across all sec- monwealth, as well as advance and community development. cessful collaboration with ICSS today’s announcement ampli- ties globally.” sport are more apparent than tors, including governments and ongoing discussions with key As part of the collaboration EUROPE and its partners. fi es our responsibility and com- Founder and President of the ever. The ICSS was founded to sports bodies, to stand up to the stakeholders about establishing and in line with its commitment “Good governance and stra- mitment to use Commonwealth ICSS Mohamed Hanzab said: benefi t and serve sport and we growing threats that sport now an independent sport integrity to service sport and support or- tegic partnerships are key pil- sport to build peaceful, sustain- “The mounting and complex remain determined to work with faces. global alliance.” Gulf Times Wednesday, January 27, 2016 11 GOLF

GOOD START Big Easy leads CBQ team to Pro-Am victory

By Sports Reporter third place on -38. Teams captained Zola continued the Pro-Am’s tra- Doha by George Coetzee and ‘Long John’ dition of attracting football stars. Daly fi nished fourth and fi fth, re- Last year, former Scotland striker spectively. Andy Gray played for the second our-time Major win- The Pro-Am featured 40 pros, straight year, teaming up with Glenn ner Ernie Els captained his each teaming up with three ama- Hoddle, the former England mid- Commercial Bank team to teurs that included a range of VIPs fi elder and manager, and Andrew victory in the Commercial and celebrities. Commercial Bank Cole, the former Manchester United BankF Qatar Masters Pro-Am yester- (CBQ), Qatar Golf Association and England striker. day, the traditional curtain-raiser to (QGA) and Doha Golf Club (DGC) In 2014, current Scotland man- the US$2.5 million European Tour all fi elded several teams in the event, ager Gordon Strachan and cur- event, which tees off at the Doha while tournament sponsors and rent Wales manager Chris Coleman Golf Club today. partners also had teams. played with Gray and two-time Ma- The South African superstar led Colin MacDonald, Deputy Chief jor winner John Daly in a star-stud- his CBQ 4 team featuring amateurs Executive Offi cer, Commercial ded group. Rachid Akl, Chawki Harb and Ramzi Bank, played for CBQ 1 with fellow Rising golf stars also took part this Mcharafi eh to a medal score of -39, Scot Stephen Gallacher, the 2014 year, with Bernd Wiesberger’s team although a countback was required Ryder Cup winner well known in the including 14-year-old Christine to decide the winning team. Middle East for winning back-to- Scholten-Kool, who was playing in Julien Quesne’s Byrne 1 team also back titles in Dubai in 2013 and 2014. her fourth Commercial Bank Qatar had a score of -39, with the French Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola Masters Pro-Am and has been play- pro and his partners Steve Caygill, was the latest famous footballer to ing golf at Doha Golf Club since she Jaques Du Toit and Thibaut Peniguet feature in the event. The former Italy was six. fi nishing runner-up. international played with 22-year- Prizes were awarded at a lavish Finnish star Mikko Ilonen, who old compatriot Matteo Manassero, Pro-Am Dinner hosted by The St. lost a play-off to Sergio Garcia in the who won his fourth European Tour Regis Doha, the tournament’s Offi - 2014 event, led his QGA 1 team to title by the age of 20. cial Hotel. Ernie Els with his team after winning the Pro-Am event at Doha Golf Club yesterday.

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Garcia wary of Oosthuizen backs wind factor

By Sports Reporter another S.African win Doha ergio Garcia makes his ‘This year I want to get more in contention in a lot more tournaments’ fi rst appearance of the 2016 season on a happy By Sports Reporter hunting ground as he teesS it up for the 11th time at the Doha Commercial Bank Qatar Masters today. ouis Oosthuizen (pictured) believes there’s a The 2014 champion missed good chance of a fi fth South African winner of the cut on his fi rst visit in 1999 the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters, to follow but returned in 2007 and has in the footsteps of defending champion Branden played every year since, with fi ve as he started out on a career that LGrace, Retief Goosen (2007), Ernie Els (2005) and Darren other top-10s complementing has so far brought him 11 Euro- Fichardt (2003). that victory two years ago. pean Tour wins. The 33-year-old is looking to hit the ground running The Spaniard has fi nished in Louis Oosthuizen has said that and turn his trademark January form into what could be the top fi ve in three of the last the 30-somethings now need his maiden victory in Qatar. The South African holds a four events and is glad to be back to “work harder” to catch their remarkable record in his fi rst event of the calendar year, on a course that he admits suits youthful counterparts but Gar- winning back-to-back Africa Opens in 2011 and 2012 him very well. cia, who turned 36 earlier this and following that with consecutive wins at the Volvo “I feel quite comfortable on month, does not believe he has Golf Champions in 2013 and 2014. this course,” he said. “It kind of to change the system that has A sixth-place fi nish at the WGC-Cadillac Champion- caught my eye the fi rst time I worked for him for 17 years on ship kick-started his 2015 campaign and provided the played it and I played it pretty Tour. platform for a season where Oosthuizen fi nished in a tie much every year since. I obvi- “My appetite is the same,” he for second at both The Open Championship and the US ously like what I see out there, said. “Obviously it’s nice to see Open Championship. ways love coming back here,” said Oosthuizen, who was up with it, as well. We grew up close to each other back in and when you can play on one of a lot of these young guys play- After an ‘out of golf’ festive break that included an an- the runner-up here in 2009. South Africa and he obviously likes this course. I’ll never those courses that you feel com- ing and playing well, because nual family trip to the Namib Desert, a refreshed Oost- “I’m always working on improving some parts of my write him off ; he’s really become a player that’s up there fortable, usually you seem to do that means that the future of huizen feels he is in the right frame of mind for another game. This year I want to get more in contention in a every week. He’s a great putter. So if his ball-striking is fairly well.” the game, it’s in good hands. But good start to the year. lot more tournaments. I felt like I’ve made a big step in on and he can fi nd the greens, he’s always in contention. “Obviously it’s getting windy. you know, my appetite is still “It has been a good break. I didn’t touch golf clubs the last year in the right direction with my body, getting I won’t be surprised to see him right up on the leader- It’s supposed to get even windier, the same. Obviously I love play- since the Nedbank up until last week. Then the first everything sorted. I think now it’s down to the golf and board from the start,” said Oosthuizen, who formed a so it’s not going to be easy, but ing golf, I enjoy every minute round was very shaky, didn’t make a birdie I think, if do more work. I had a taste of a second Major last year, winning partnership with Grace in October’s Presidents the course looks in very, very of it, and I try to push myself to I can remember… but then sort of picked up quickly. and that really got me hungry to win a few more. Cup in Korea, where the South African pair won all four good shape and it’s always a good become better every year, better After a good break, you want to go back out on the “I think it’s a bonus if you get to a Major week and your of their matches together, although the Internationals week to start my year. So I’m and more consistent. That obvi- course again. You want to play, and I think a lot of game is on top form. That’s what everyone tries to get to, narrowly lost to the USA. looking forward to it,” the Span- ously hasn’t changed.” times with the schedules we have these days, you lose and the really top guys do it every week, they get their Oosthuizen also fl agged up young compatriots Haydn iard added. Garcia and defending cham- that a bit, to be hungry again just to go out and play. game sharp for big events. So still need to get myself to Porteous and Brandon Stone, who each won their fi rst Euro- Garcia burst onto the scene in pion Branden Grace will play Doesn’t matter what you shoot. I got a bit of that back that level. I feel the biggest thing for me is still consist- pean Tour title earlier this month. “We also have two young 1999 at the age of just 19, win- their fi rst two rounds together again after a big break,” said the 2010 Open Champi- ency, but I’m moving in the right direction.” South African winners on the European Tour this season, ning two European Tour titles to with rising English star Matt Fit- onship winner. Oosthuizen’s countryman Branden Grace comes into Haydn and Brandon, which is great to see. I expect them to fi nish third in the Order of Merit zpatrick. Last year’s ‘so near yet so far’ results at St Andrews this week as defending champion off the back of four do well here, as I think the conditions will suit them.” and Chambers Bay has made his resolve stronger to go top-fi ve fi nishes in his last fi ve events, with the only re- Oosthuizen will play in one of the tournament’s for another Major title, and the South African is hoping sult breaking that streak being a tie for eighth at the Al- star-studded groups with four-time Major winner PRAISE that a win in Qatar could be the starting point towards fred Dunhill Championship. Els, his long-term friend and mentor, and Thai legend that goal. Grace is also a renowned fast starter, with four of his Thongchai Jaidee on the fi rst two days. “I’m ready to start the season. I like this golf course six European Tour wins coming in the fi rst two months Sergio Garcia, the 2014 champion, and Grace are the and I like playing in windy conditions. The ‘desert of the season, and Oosthuizen believes his World No. 11 two highest-ranked players in the fi eld and will play Els impressed by swing’ was a stretch that I always started my season with compatriot could well be the man to beat this year too. their fi rst two rounds together with rising English star when I was fully playing on The European Tour, so I al- “Branden loves playing in windy conditions. He grew Matt Fitzpatrick. QGA junior golf BOTTOMLINE programme

By Sports Reporter to play. My dad was a golfer so I’d Arabi coach and Chelsea legend Doha go every weekend with him and I’d also go with my grandfather to golf courses. As time went on, rnie Els continued his I had opportunities to play over- Zola switches from football to golf long history of giving seas and so forth,” Els said. back to the game of golf “I just felt that a lot of play- earlier this week when he ers with a lot of talent were left Zola is the latest international foot- captainedE one of three teams of behind in South Africa because By Sports Reporter Doha baller to take part in activities at the local juniors in the third edition they didn’t get the opportunity Commercial Bank Qatar Masters. Last of the Commercial Bank Qatar to play as juniors in academies or year, former England stars Glenn Hod- Masters Challenge Match. in tournaments, and that’s how ianfranco Zola became the latest dle and Andy Cole, and former Scotland Els, 46, laughed when remind- you develop as a player. That’s football star to play a role in the striker Andy Gray played on the same ed that Louis Oosthuizen–one why we started our Foundation, Commercial Bank Qatar Mas- team in the Pro-Am. of three captains in the Chal- to help kids really reach us their ters when the Italy and Chelsea In 2014, Gray, Scotland manager Gor- lenge Match–was the most high- potential, and I’m sure that’s Glegend played yesterday’s Pro-Am with don Strachan and Wales coach Chris profi le graduate of the Ernie Els what the Qatar Golf Associa- young compatriot Matteo Manassero, a Coleman played with John Daly in the Foundation set up in South Af- tion is doing with its junior pro- four-time European Tour winner. Pro-Am before teaming up as the ‘Foot- rica in 1999. gramme,” he added. Currently coaching Al Arabi in the Qa- ball Masters’ against the ‘Qatar Masters’ Oosthuizen, 33, became a Els, who won the Commercial tar Stars League, Zola remains a hugely team of Sergio Garcia, Henrik Stenson member in 2000 and was the Bank Qatar Masters in 2005, was popular fi gure, especially in Italy and and Martin Kaymer in a fun skills chal- Foundation’s captain in 2002, delighted to spend quality time England, having won 35 caps for his lenge in the Family Zone. the year Els won the third of his with four of Qatar’s most prom- country and become a Chelsea legend in On the Friday of the same tournament, four Majors and the fi rst of his ising youngsters on Monday and his seven seasons with the London giants. Manchester United legend Dwight Yorke two Open Championship titles. said he hopefully managed to Early in his career, he played alongside participated with the Trick Shot Boys be- The Foundation’s stated pur- give them some inspiring memo- Diego Maradona as Napoli won Serie A fore heading to watch good friend Sergio pose is “to identify talented ries as they develop their game. in 1990 and later won six trophies with Garcia over the weekend, when he was South Africans, predominantly “I remember back in the day Chelsea. In 2003, Chelsea fans voted Zola rewarded by watching the Spaniard win from families of limited resourc- when we were juniors and were as the club’s greatest-ever player. his fi rst title in Doha. es, and provide them with edu- invited to play with profession- Zola, 49, also learned to play golf while A year earlier, Wayne Rooney, Ryan cational and life-skill assistance als,” Els recalled. “I’d always be at Chelsea, although he has played mainly some good players like Mark Hughes and the Qatar U-23 team bidding to qualify Giggs and Paul Scholes were among a and playing opportunities in or- nervous and looking forward to at Doha Golf Club since moving to Qatar John Terry was also pretty good.” for this year’s Olympics. dozen of the Manchester United squad der to produce successful, well- playing, seeing how a golf ball last year. “I love golf. Now, I play about Last July, Zola was appointed coach of “I wish Qatar all the best as they try training in Qatar to attend the first rounded and educated young should be hit and how the game once a week here,” said Zola, who current- Al Arabi and the current Doha resident to get into the Olympics,” said Zola, who day’s play, when they walked the course golfers”. should be played. That’s why I’m ly holds a four handicap. “I really started said he was happy to play in the Pro-Am represented Italy at the 1994 World Cup to follow Justin Rose among other play- “I feel that I was very fortunate always happy to give youngsters to play when I was at Chelsea. There were at an exciting time for local football, with and Euro ’96. ers. to have all the opportunities I did some pointers.”

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 GULF TIMES SPORT

COMMERCIAL BANK QATAR MASTERS A look back

First played: 1998 Previous winners: Andrew Coltart, 1998; Paul Lawrie, 1999; Rolf Muntz, 2000; Tony John- stone, 2001; Adam Scott, 2002; Darren Fichardt, 2003; Joakim Will Mother of Pearl be Haeggman, 2004; Ernie Els, 2005; Henrik Stenson, 2006; Retief Goosen, 2007; Adam Scott, 2008; Alvaro Quiros, 2009; Robert Karlsson, 2010; Thomas Bjørn, 2011; Paul Lawrie, 2012; Chris Wood, 2013; Sergio Garcia, 2014; kind to Grace again? Branden Grace, 2015 Most wins: 2 – Adam Scott, 2002 and 2008, 2 - Paul Lawrie, 1999 ‘I am really happy with my game in terms of consistency and want to continue momentum’ and 2012 Consecutive wins: None Youngest winner: Adam Scott, 21 By Satya Rath years and 244 days, 2002 Doha Oldest winner: Tony Johnstone, years 44 and 313 days, 2001 Lowest 18 hole score: 61 (-11), he Commercial Bank Qatar Masters will enter Adam Scott, 2008 its 19th year when the French-English-Danish Lowest first 18 hole score: 63 trio of Mike Lorenzo-Vera, Matthew Baldwin (-9), Mark Pilkington, Robert and Joachim B Hansen tee off at the stroke of Karlsson, 2001 dawnT at the Doha Golf Club today. Lowest first 36 hole score: 131 Over the last 18 years, the European Tour event has wit- (-13), Rafael Cabrera-Bello, 2014 nessed some scintillating golfi ng action, while also acting Lowest first 54 hole score: 200 as a launching pad for some of the biggest names in the (-16), Paul Lawrie, 1999, Alvaro sport today. Quiros, 2009 Some have faded away from public memory, like An- Lowest 72 hole score: 268 (-20), drew Coltart of Scotland who won the inaugural Qatar Paul Lawrie, 1999, Adam Scott, Masters title in 1998, or 2000 champion Rolf Muntz, who 2008 too failed to do justice to his talent. Lowest under par winning But for names like Spain’s Sergio Garcia, South African score: 268 (-20), Paul Lawrie, Ernie Els, England’s Chris Wood, Australian Adam Scott, 1999, Adam Scott, 2008 or defending champion Branden Grace, just to name a few, Lowest final round by a winner: the Doha event carries a special meaning. 61 (-11), Adam Scott, 2008 For most of them, a win on the Peter Harradine-de- Wire-to-wire-winners: Henrik signed course at the start of the season often sets the tone Stenson, 2006, Retief Goosen, for bigger things for the rest of the year. 2007 Grace admits that his victory here last year gave his con- Largest 18 hole lead: 2 shots – fi dence a big boost for the rest of the year. “I think 2015 was David Howell, 2003 my best season ever and it all started here. I am a much Largest 36 hole lead: 3 shots better player now than I was when I came here last year. I – Adam Scott, 2002, James am really happy with my game in terms of consistency and Kingston, 2003, Louis Oosthui- want to continue this momentum and keep improving,” zen, 2009 the 27-year-old South African, who has been enjoying a Largest 54 hole lead: 6 shots – spectacular run of form since late 2014, said. Rolf Muntz, 2000 After winning in Doha in January, he fi nished joint Largest winning margin: 7 shots fourth at the US Open in June and third at the US PGA – Paul Lawrie, 1999 Championship in August, while in October he won all of Biggest final round comeback fi ve of his matches for the Internationals against the USA by a winner: 5 shots – Ernie Els, at the Presidents Cup in Korea. 2005 For Garcia, the DGC course has been a happy hunting Play-off s: Darren Fichardt beat ground. A regular at the CBQM, the Spaniard missed the James Kingston, 2003; Sergio cut on his fi rst visit in 1999 but returned in 2007 and has Garcia beat Mikko Ilonen, 2014 played every year since, with fi ve other top-10 fi nishes Holes-in-one: Eduardo Romero, complementing his 2014 victory. He has fi nished in the 17th Hole, Rd 1, 1999; Patrik Sjö- top fi ve in three of the last four events here and is glad to be land, 17th Hole, Rd 2, 1999; John back on a course that he admits suits him very well. Bickerton, 13th Hole, Rd 2, 1999; “I feel quite comfortable on this course. It kind of caught Jamie Spence, 13th Hole, Rd 2, my eye the fi rst time I played it and I have played it pretty 2000; Darren Fichardt, 3rd Hole, much every year since. It’s getting windy, and the forecast Rd, 2, 2003; Warren Bennett, says the conditions are supposed to get even windier, so 17th Hole, Rd 3, 2004; Thongchai it’s not going to be easy, but the course looks in good shape. Jaidee, 3rd Hole, Rd 2, 2006; I’m looking forward to it,” the Spaniard said. Peter Lawrie, 3rd Hole, Rd 2, Among the other contenders for the Mother of Pearl 2006; Brandon Stone, 13th Hole, Trophy is seven-time European Tour winner Louis Oost- Rd 2, 2014 huizen. The 33-year-old South African has an uncanny Albatrosses: Steve Webster, 10th record of winning his season-opening event, having Hole, Rd 1, 2014 (his first hole of achieved it four times in a row from 2011 through 2014, and the tournament) comes here at the top of his game. Low cut: 143 (-1), 2001, 02, 04, 13, The 2010 Open Championship winner came close to se- 14, 15 curing a second Major last year when he fi nished runner- High cut: 150 (+6), 2000 up at both the US Open and The Open, and said he’s ready for the ‘swing’. “I like playing in windy conditions. I had some good practice back at Florida last week, so I’m feeling Did You Know good. I’ve got a lot of new clubs in the bag which I tested Branden Grace will try to cre- last week, and am looking forward to getting started,” said ate history by becoming the first . The ‘desert swing’ was a stretch that I always started my player to hold onto the Mother of season with when I was fully playing on The European Pearl Trophy. The 27-year-old has Tour, so I always love coming back here,” said the 2009 yet to make a successful defence Qatar Masters runner-up. of a European Tour title. The local challenge will be led by two 20-year-old am- Should the 1999 and 2012 ateurs--Saleh al-Kaabi and Ali al-Shahrani--who will be champion Paul Lawrie win again, making their third appearance at the US$2.5 million event. the Scot would be the first player Al-Kaabi opened with a 78 last year before bouncing to win the title on three occa- back with a 70 in the following round, a marked improve- sions. ment when he shot rounds of 81 and 78 on his debut year There are 15 players in the in 2014. field who have won European Al-Shahrani gave himself a chance of making the cut Tour events in the Middle East. last year with a fi rst-round 73, but fell away with an 84 on This includes Ernie Els, winner the second day. in Qatar in 2005. The South Both of them are hoping to be third-time lucky and be- African holds the record for most come the fi rst-ever Qatari golfers to make the halfway cut European Tour titles in the region, at the CBQM. Both players qualifi ed for the event by fi n- with four, along with Rory McIlroy ishing as the top two local players at the Qatar Open ama- and Henrik Stenson. teur tournament, held in the fi rst week of January. The Commercial Bank Qatar The 7374-yard DGC course, one of the longest par-72 Masters holds the European Tour courses on the tour, looks in pristine shape but can be un- record for the fewest number of forgiving if one fails to negotiate the tricky fairways and shots between the halfway lead- slopes. Both nines open and close with par-fi ves, water is ers and the cut mark, just five in in play on six holes (3, 8, 9, 13, 15 and 18) and the par-threes 2004. The 36 hole leaders were (holes 3, 8, 13 and 17) are all tough. The par-four 11th has on 138 (-6), whilst the cut fell at often proved to be the bane of many players, and is consid- 143 (-1). This five shot record was ered the hardest hole on the course. matched in 2012 at the Sicilian Because of its long and wide fairways, the big-hitters Open. often have an advantage in Doha--last year’s winner Grace Steve Webster made Europe- is considered among the longest hitters on the tour, just to an Tour history by becoming the cite an example. In fact, most of the previous winners at first player to begin a tournament the DGC, or the second and third fi nishers, are all known with an albatross. He started from to hit long and deep. With the wind likely to play a big role the par five tenth hole in this in the fi nal outcome, the tee-off draw could play a role, as event in 2014. the early starters often fi nd the conditions tougher than Jakub Hrinda made in 2015 the later bunch. by becoming the youngest player In the CBQM’s 18-year history, no player has managed to compete in the tournament, to win back-to-back titles, while only two-- Scott in 2002 aged 14 years and 305 days. This and 2008, and Paul Lawrie in 1999 and 2012--have man- beat the previous record of Do- aged to win it twice. Will Grace be able to break the trend? minic Foos, who was 15 and 142 Over to the greens. days in 2013.

TEE TIME PLAYERS TEE TIME PLAYERS TEE TIME PLAYERS 1 06:30 Mike Lorenzo-Vera, Matthew Baldwin, Joachim B. Hansen 10 07:10 Kristoff er Broberg, Rafa Cabrera-Bello, Tommy Fleetwood 1 12:00 Bradley Dredge, Eddie Pepperell, Mike Weir 1 06:40 Sébastien Gros, Clarke Lutton, Andrew McArthur 10 07:20 Søren Kjeldsen, Kiradech Aphibarnrat, Chris Wood 1 12:10 James Busby, Ali Saleh al-Kaabi (AM), Jeff Winther 1 06:50 Pablo Larrazábal, Ashun Wu, Stephen Gallacher 10 07:30 Ernie Els, Louis Oosthuizen, Thongchai Jaidee 1 12:20 Oliver Fisher, Romain Wattel, Pelle Edberg 1 07:00 Dominic Foos, Wade Ormsby, Johan Carlsson 10 07:40 David Howell, Marcel Siem, Nathan Holman 10 10:40 Borja Virto Astudillo, Tyrrell Hatton, Scott Jamieson 1 07:10 Simon Dyson, Jorge Campillo, John Parry 10 07:50 Magnus A Carlsson, Maximilian Kieff er, Trevor Fisher Jr 10 10:50 James Morrison, Mikko Ilonen, Grégory Bourdy 1 07:20 Seve Benson, Ricardo Gouveia, Benjamin Hebert 10 08:00 Michael Hoey, Ben Evans, Daniel Brooks 10 11:00 Roope Kakko, Brett Rumford, Richie Ramsay 1 07:30 George Coetzee, Steve Webster, Andrew Dodt 1 10:40 Alex Noren, Julien Quesne, Chris Paisley 10 11:10 Thorbjørn Olesen, Fabrizio Zanotti, Marc Warren 1 07:40 Rhys Davies, Grégory Havret, Nicolas Colsaerts 1 10:50 Lee Slattery, Cheng Jin (AM), David Lipsky 10 11:20 Graeme Storm, Raphaël Jacquelin, Gary Stal 1 07:50 Craig Lee, Niclas Fasth, Felipe Aguilar 1 11:00 Marcus Fraser, Prom Meesawat, Richard Bland 10 11:30 Scott Hend, Paul McGinley, Robert Dinwiddie 1 08:00 Mikko Korhonen, Thomas Linard, Rayhan Thomas (AM) 1 11:10 Paul Lawrie, John Daly, Robert Karlsson 10 11:40 Jin Jeong, Matteo Manassero, Oliver Wilson 10 06:30 Callum Shinkwin, Robert Rock, Ulrich Van Den Berg 1 11:20 Thomas Bjorn, Brandon Stone, Lucas Bjerregaard 10 11:50 Morten Orum Madsen, Jamie McLeary, David Drysdale TEE TIMES TEE 10 06:40 Peter Uihlein, Alexander Levy, Simon Khan 1 11:30 Bernd Wiesberger, Haydn Porteous, Thomas Pieters 10 12:00 Jens Fahrbring, Renato Paratore, Andrew Johnston 10 06:50 Eduardo De La Riva, Gary Boyd, Bryson DeChambeau (AM) 1 11:40 Matthew Fitzpatrick, Branden Grace, Sergio Garcia 10 12:10 Hennie Otto, Joakim Lagergren, Nacho Elvira 10 07:00 Darren Fichardt, Trevor Immelman, Alvaro Quiros 1 11:50 Peter Hanson, Alejandro Canizares, Joost Luiten 10 12:20 Bjorn Akesson, Edouard Espana, Ali al-Shahrani (AM)