NBA | Page 3 FORMULA 1 | Page 4 Heat legend Williams, Racing Wade stresses Point furlough unity amid staff as drivers pandemic take pay cut

Tuesday, April 7, 2020 TENNIS Sha’ban 14, 1441 AH Jabeur mulls GULF TIMES swapping rackets for dancing shoes SPORT Page 5

FOCUS Golf majors reset: PGA in August, US Open September, The British Open has been cancelled for the first time since Masters November World War II, postponed until 2021

AFP New York, United States US Outlaw Tour gives golfers events Masters among the fall despite coronavirus leaves, the US Open and Ryder Cup on back-to- AFP 49-year-old Alex Cejka, who closed with a 4-under par 68 to back weeks and the PGA Los Angeles, United States won the 2015 PGA Puerto Rico finish on 15-under 201 for a one- A Open and four European Tour stroke victory over American Championship in its former spot are on tap in golf’s 2020 corona- titles from 1995-2002. His best Chris Korte. virus rescheduling plan. here are desert rain finish in 23 major starts was But the big shocker came when Moments after the 149th Open downpours and tee box fourth at the 2003 PGA Cham- 14 players were disqualified for Championship was postponed Tconfusion with top prizes pionship. playing off the wrong tee after until 2021, golf’s major tourna- of only $4,500 (4,167 euros), Thomas Lehman and amateur a tee-box mix-up on a par-3 ment organizers and tours issued but golf’s Outlaw Tour is play- Sean Lehman, sons of 1996 hole in the first round. a joint statement announcing a ing through in Arizona despite British Open champion and The tee was set up at 204 yards revamped lineup of dates as a re- the coronavirus pandemic. former world number one Tom while scorecards showed the sult of postponements due to the The four-year-old men’s Lehman, are also in the field. hole at 222 yards. The first global Covid-19 pandemic. developmental circuit typically “I think it’s a really safe thing group to reach the hole played The British Open has been attracts players in their 20s for to do,” 61-year-old Lehman told off the wrong tee and others cancelled for the first time since 54-hole mid-week events with the PGA Tour website. followed before the mistake World War II due to the corona- entry fees of $775-$875 and “Golf kind of has a built-in, was caught. virus. is set to play four final season social-distancing concept. Three weeks ago at the West- The 149th Open was scheduled events in April. You don’t get inside the other ern Skies Classic in Gilbert, a to take place at Royal St George’s With almost every other sports player’s space. You can play a heavy rain softened the course Golf Club in Kent in July. league in the United States and round of golf with people and for Thursday’s final round, But with the pandemic ripping worldwide shut down amid you don’t get up close and when Canadian Jared du Toit the 2020 sporting schedule to safety precautions for the personal.” fired a bogey-free 59, making shreds, the event has became the deadly Covid-19 virus, the Out- Flagsticks stay in holes and no an eagle and nine birdies in the first of the sport’s four majors to law Tour keeps going thanks rakes are provided for bunkers. lowest round in Outlaw Tour be cancelled this year. to golf courses being declared There are no handshakes or wa- history. Golf’s oldest major will now an “essential business” in the ter coolers and players walking “I didn’t think about it too much be hosted at the same Sandwich state. the course keep their distance until late,” du Toit said. “I had a venue in July 2021. After two events since the PGA from others to maintain social good look on 17. I was mad at The PGA Championship, Tour halted play, the Outlaw distancing guidelines. the time, it didn’t go in, because which had been postponed from Tour will stage the Orange I would have loved to have May, was rescheduled for August Tree Classic at Scottsdale, DU TOIT 59, DQ 14 been able to par 18. 6-9 to remain at Harding Park in Arizona, starting Tuesday with At last week’s Verrado Found- “I got away with my tee shot. San Francisco. an 80-player field over a 6,739- ers Championship, Scotland’s It finished close to the cart The US Open was rescheduled yard layout. Calum Hill, a 136th-ranked path. Had 105 yards in and hit a from June to September 17-20 In this July 20, 2019, picture, the scoreboard is updated during the third round of the British Open Golf The lineup features Germany’s European Tour newcomer, wedge to 6-7 feet and made it.” with the Ryder Cup to be con- Championships at Royal Portrush golf club in Northern Ireland. (AFP) tested one week later at Whis- tling Straits as scheduled. conditions for players and spec- health and well-being of every- “We look forward to the in close contact with local, state outbreak, will be better in late tive Seth Waugh said his major, The Masters, which was to tators in the wake of the deadly one within the game of golf and championship returning in full and national health authorities to September. now set to be the first of the year, have been played this week virus outbreak. beyond, above all else,” the state- strength next spring,” Ridley help inform our decisions.” “We are hopeful that postpon- should help in the global recovery among the blooming spring flow- The US PGA Tour rebooked its ment said. said. The Augusta National Wom- ing the championship will offer from isolating measures to safe- ers at Augusta National, has been regular-season finale, the Wynd- The same field of players that en’s Amateur, an event that began us the opportunity to mitigate guard people from the virus. rescheduled for November 12-15. ham Championship, for August BACK-TO-BACK MASTERS would have competed this week last year, was cancelled for 2020 health and safety issues while “Sports, and particularly the It was postponed on March 13. 13-16 with the season-ending The Masters will be played, at the Masters will be used for the but each woman who accepted still providing us with the best game of golf, are important ve- “We hope the anticipation of tour playoffs to follow over the health conditions permitting, November date, which comes only an invitation to the event will be opportunity to conduct the US hicles for healing and hope,” staging the Masters Tournament next three weeks, concluding outside of April for the first time a few weeks after the course reo- invited to compete in 2021, pro- Open this year,” US Golf Associa- Waugh said. in the fall brings a moment of with the Tour Championship in in the event’s history, which be- pens following summer closure. vided she remains an amateur. tion chief executive Mike Davis “We will continue to follow joy to the Augusta community Atlanta on September 4-7. gan in 1934. “We want to emphasise that said. the guidance of public health and all those who love the sport,” “We want to reiterate that Another Masters will be our future plans are incumbent GIVING ‘HEALING, HOPE’ “We are incredibly thankful officials, but are hopeful that it Augusta National chairman Fred Augusta National Golf Club, scheduled in its usual date for upon favorable counsel and di- The US Open moved back more to the membership and staff at will be safe and responsible to Ridley said. European Tour, LPGA, PGA of April 2021, making the Augusta rection from health officials,” Ri- than three months in hopes con- Winged Foot for their flexibility conduct the PGA Championship Organizers emphasized that America, PGA Tour, The R&A National classic the last major of dley said. ditions in the New York area, the and support.” in August and the Ryder Cup as the new dates depend upon safe and USGA collectively value the 2020 and the first of 2021. “As such, we continue to keep epicentre of the US pandemic PGA of America chief execu- planned.”

FOOTBALL FIFA urges clubs and players to reach agreement over wages: sources

AFP ing Barcelona, have also cut play- said: “With the current suspen- it resumes. terparts, had been criticised for Lausanne, Switzerland er wages. sion of play in most countries, it not agreeing a pay cut, six-time FIFA is also recommending is now obvious that the current ‘POSITIVE IMPACT’ Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi that players’ contracts be ex- season will not end when people Individual agreements must still announced last week that the IFA yesterday urged clubs tended until the end of the inter- thought it would. Therefore, it is be signed between the clubs and squad had agreed to a 70 percent and players to reach agree- rupted football seasons and that proposed that contracts be ex- players, who will waive between pay reduction as the club faces a ment on wage reductions the transfer window does not tended until such time that the two and four months’ salary. loss of revenue. to protect clubs suffering open until that time. season does actually end.” The decision was reached “We clearly won’t manage to F earn what we had been expect- financial damage due to the coro- The source said the health “A similar principle applies for unanimously by Serie A clubs, navirus crisis, sources said. crisis had had “a major impact” contracts scheduled to begin when with the exception of Juventus, ing to,” Barcelona president Josep The call from world football’s on clubs’ revenues and that, like the new season starts,” it said. which had already reached an Maria Bartomeu said. governing body comes as Premier other sectors of the economy, until June 30. Given that the European sea- “Meaning the entry into force of agreement with its own players, Atletico Madrid’s players League clubs are locked in talks football had to find “fair and eq- Players whose contracts expire sons are suspended and there such contracts is delayed until the said Lega Serie A. quickly followed in agreeing a with players and their represent- uitable solutions” to protect jobs. this summer include Manches- is no fixed date to resume at the season actually does start.” Juventus said the salary cuts similar pay cut. atives about taking pay cuts after Therefore FIFA “strongly en- ter City’s David Silva, Willian current time, the source said In Italy, where all football has accepted by its players and coach In France, both the broadcast- government ministers called on courages clubs and players to at Chelsea, or Paris Saint-Ger- FIFA proposes that contracts been suspended since March 9, Maurizio Sarri over the period ers who show Ligue 1 matches have players to “play their part”. work together” to find agree- main’s Thiago Silva and Edinson should be extended “until such clubs in Serie A agreed on Mon- from March to June would have “a refused to pay the latest instal- Italian top-flight football clubs ments on a range of issues, in- Cavani. At the moment, they will time that the season does actu- day that player salaries will be positive impact of 90mn euros on ments called for in their contracts. yesterday agreed to cut the sala- cluding salaries. be free to leave on July 1 even if ally end”. reduced by a third of their gross the 2019/2020 financial year”. Several clubs, including Lyon and ries of players, coaches and staff. It is common practice for Eu- the season has not been com- A statement FIFA has prepared annual earnings if the season In Spain, where Barcelona Marseille, have placed their squads Clubs in other countries, includ- ropean player contracts to run pleted. and which has been seen by AFP should be cancelled, and a sixth if players, like their English coun- on partial unemployment. Gulf Times 2 Tuesday, April 7, 2020 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS QFA president extends message of solidarity Southgate takes 30% to football family heikh Hamad bin Kha- ity in the face of coronavirus lifa bin Ahmed al-Thani, pandemic engulfing the world. President of the Qatar “We are living in difficult times, SFootball Association which requires us all to stand as pay cut as FA losses (QFA), on Sunday sent cables of one power and hand in hand to support to FIFA President Gian- confront this great danger and ni Infantino and Asian Football fight this widespread epidemic. Confederation President Sheikh Solidarity is our main pillar of Salman bin Ibrahim al-Khalifah. our success and will remain the QFA president said Qatar urg- anchor that we settle with dur- es complete solidarity among ing this difficult period,” the QFA could exceed £150mn the football family in his special president said in his message. message. The letter was also sent Sheikh Hamad stressed the to presidents of the European full readiness of the Qatari foot- England manager has voluntarily accepted the cut, initially for next three months Football Association, Confed- ball family to provide support eration of African Football, Con- and co-operation to contribute By David Hytner cacaf, Caribbean Confederation effectively in the fight against the The Guardian Federation and Oceania Football pandemic. He was confident and Association. hoped that everyone can suc- Sheikh Hamad stressed the cessfully and safely pass through ngland manager Gareth South- necessity of showing solidar- this crisis. gate has agreed to take a 30% pay cut as the Football Association Eannounced it expected losses of more than £150mn owing to the corona- Duhail’s players participate virus shutdown. Southgate is comfort- ably the FA’s best-paid employee, earn- in awareness campaign ing around £3mn a year, and the England manager has voluntarily accepted the cut, against coronavirus initially for the next three months. Doha: A number of players Mohamed Muntari were among The FA’s other high earners have signed from the Al Duhail Sports Club the players who took part in the up to deductions, with the chief execu- participated in an awareness campaign. tive, Mark Bullingham, and the chair- campaign against coronavirus Meanwhile, Duhail players man, Greg Clarke, giving up significant by highlighting its dangers and continued their daily training percentages of their salaries. Senior the ways to prevent it. As part session, as they trained indi- managers in areas such as legal, human Gareth Southgate is FA’s of the club’s social responsibil- vidually, each at his home or in resources, finance, communications and best-paid employee, earning ity, the players urged people to open places as per their choice, IT have agreed 15% cuts – again for three around £3mn a year. (Reuters) follows government’s instruc- as a precautionary measure months – and there is to be a furloughing tions to curb the spread of the to limit the outbreak of the programme for other staff members. The coronavirus. coronavirus. Qatar Stars League England Women’s manager, Phil Neville, Duhail’s Moroccan defender is suspended with five more is taking a pay cut, although it is unclear Mehdi Benatia, Qatari play- rounds to be played. Duhail are whether it is at the same percentage as ers Almoez Ali, Ali Afif and at the top of the standings. Southgate. The FA had to cancel England friend- lies at Wembley in the countdown to Euro 2020 and the postponement of the cham- BUNDESLIGA pionship denied it the chance to host matches – at least until next summer. The organisation had also been look- ing forward to Wembley paydays from German clubs resume the men’s and women’s FA Cup finals, the EFL play-offs and rugby league’s Chal- lenge Cup final. Summer concerts at the training amid tight stadium are also in danger. cat centres [for girls aged 5-11] across when they will return. The total financial a temporary pay reduction of 7.5%. In Bullingham said that because the FA England. It’s that simple.” impact is forecast to be around £100mn the spirit of those on higher salaries tak- virus restrictions was a not-for-profit governing body, He added: “We’ve taken an immediate but it could easily exceed £150mn de- ing the greater responsibility, the senior with all of the money it made reinvested and significant financial impact due to pending on the duration of the govern- management team have agreed to cut Reuters Wolfsburg and others. Bottom into the game, “the less we generate, the the postponement of England interna- ment’s necessary medical measures. their pay by 15%, with the highest earn- Berlin club Paderborn also trained in less flows back. For example, we will gen- tionals, FA Cup matches and Wembley “We are proposing all employees earn- ers in the organisation agreeing to reduce small groups with coach Steffen erate less for community pitches or Wild- events and there is no clear timescale on ing £50,000 or more per annum will take their pay by up to 30%.” Baumgart saying it was impor- undesliga clubs returned tant for the players to be back on to team training yester- the pitch. PREMIER LEAGUE day, with players split “It is important that players Bin small groups or pairs get the ball on their feet again,” and kept at a safe distance amid Baumgart said. “That is why we strict measures to contain the have created the training ses- Liverpool backtrack over decision to furlough staff spread of the coronavirus. sions in such a way that ball ac- German football has been tivities are the focus.” Weight AFP and guaranteeing the 20% payment; ap- suspended for almost a month and fitness sessions will be done London plying to the Coronavirus Job Retention and the German Football League individually, he said. Eintracht Scheme with a guarantee to reimburse (DFL) has said the ban will re- Frankfurt trained in pairs. monies received at a later date and, third- main in place for the top divi- Germany has seen the number iverpool yesterday scrapped their ly, finding an alternative means to cover sions at least until April 30. of infected people rise above controversial decision to furlough our furlough costs. Clubs, however, were given the 100,000 this weekend and nearly non-playing staff during the “It is as a direct result of this exten- all clear from their state authori- 1,600 have died after testing Lcoronavirus pandemic after the sive consultation and our own internal ties and the DFL to resume train- positive for the virus that has Premier League leaders apologised for deliberations at various levels through- ing this week, with champions forced the country into lock- coming to the “wrong conclusion”. out the Club that we have opted to find Bayern Munich deciding to train down. Despite the training re- The Reds, the world’s seventh-richest alternative means despite our eligibility players in small groups to mini- sumption the DFL made it clear football club, were widely criticised af- to apply for the Coronavirus Job Reten- mise the risk of infection. last week it was not known if or ter announcing at the weekend that they tion Scheme. We believe we came to the “Obviously all health guide- when the season would resume, planned to put around 200 staff on - en wrong conclusion last week to announce lines are being adhered to,” the and the stop in play has also had forced leave during the pandemic while that we intended to apply to the Coro- club said in a statement. “Obvi- major financial effects on clubs. the British government pays 80% of their navirus Retention Scheme and furlough ously the training is closed to the Two weeks ago Borussia Dort- wages. With the Premier League post- staff due to the suspension of the Premier public. FC Bayern are asking fans mund, Bayern, RB Leipzig and poned because of the virus, Liverpool’s League football calendar, and are truly to continue following guidelines Bayer Leverkusen came together US-based Fenway Sports Group owners sorry for that.” and please do not come to the to create a 20mn euros ($21.6mn) came under fire for exploiting the -fur Liverpool held talks with representa- team’s training centre.” solidarity fund to help clubs in lough scheme to save money at the same tives of the supporters’ group Spirit of The Bavarians trained in the top two tiers. Dortmund have time as they continue to pay huge salaries Shankly and local MPs before the climb- groups of five but without also provided part of their Signal to star players like Mohamed Salah. down. But Moore warned the financial any contact, just like Borus- Iduna Park stadium for the treat- Fellow top-flight teams Tottenham, impact of the health crisis on the club sia Moenchengladbach, VfL ment of suspected virus cases. Newcastle, Bournemouth and Norwich could still be felt. have already furloughed staff, but it was “Our intentions were, and still are, to Liverpool — who made pre-tax profits ensure the entire workforce is given as of £42mn for the 2018-19 season — that much protection as possible from redun- came in for the most criticism, in part due dancy and/or loss of earnings during this to their reputation as a club with a strong unprecedented period,” Moore said. bond to the working-class community on “We are therefore committed to finding Merseyside. As the opprobrium mounted alternative ways to operate while there from the club’s supporters and former are no football matches being played that players, Liverpool chief executive Peter ensures we are not applying for the gov- Moore, writing in an open letter to sup- ernment relief scheme. Despite the fact Liverpool, the world’s seventh-richest football club, were widely criticised after porters yesterday, revealed that they have we were in a healthy position prior to this announcing that they planned to put around 200 staff on enforced leave during the changed their mind. crisis, our revenues have been shut off yet pandemic while the British government pays 80% of their wages. (AFP) “We have consulted with a range of key our outgoings remain.” stakeholders as part of a process aimed at Liverpool’s rivals Manchester United Moore said Liverpool will explore op- return to operating as it did before the achieving the best possible outcome for have told staff members they will not be tions to prepare for a potentially lengthy pandemic,” he said. all concerned,” Moore said. making use of the government furlough delay before football returns. “Like any “These scenarios range from best case “A range of possible scenarios were scheme. United, who have around 900 responsible employer concerned for its to worst and everything in between. We considered, including but not restricted full-time employees, say they will con- workers in the current situation, the club are engaged in the process of exploring to: applying to the Coronavirus Job Re- tinue to pay all staff as if they were work- continues to prepare for a range of differ- all avenues within our scope to limit the tention Scheme which pays 80% of salary ing normally. ent scenarios, around when football can inevitable damage.” Bayern Munich’s players attend a training session in Munich. (AFP)

ROUND-UP Man City boss Guardiola’s mother dies aged 82 after contracting coronavirus ep Guardiola’s 82-year- plies for the fight against the coronavi- demic which has killed nearly 16,000 reached an agreement with its own semi-finals and ultimately third place, discharged from hospital on March 30. old mother has died after rus pandemic in his native Spain. people in the country. players, said Lega Serie A. their greatest ever performance in the contracting coronavirus, Players salaries will be reduced by a tournament. The 46-year-old enjoyed UAE FIRE GAMELESS JOVANOVIC PManchester City announced ITALIAN TOP-FLIGHT CLUBS third of their gross annual earnings if RECBER OUT OF HOSPITAL a brief spell at Barcelona in 2003 after The United Arab Emirates have sacked yesterday. “The Manchester City fam- AGREE PLAYERS’ PAY CUTS the season should be cancelled, and a AFTER CORONAVIRUS starring in the World Cup a year earlier their Serbian coach Ivan Jovanovic ily are devastated to report the death Italian top-flight football clubs have sixth if it resumes. Individual agree- Former Turkish national team and when Turkey beat co-hosts South without a single game in charge as today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala unanimously reached agreement to ments must still be signed between ex-Barcelona goalkeeper Rustu Recber Korea 3-2 in the third-place play-off. his task of steering them to a pair of Carrio in Manresa, Barcelona, after cut the salaries of players, coaches the clubs and players, who will waive was discharged from hospital yesterday Recber, who also played for Istanbul major tournaments was disrupted by contracting coronavirus,” the Premier and staff as a result of the coronavirus between two and four months salary. after recovering from coronavirus, his giants Fenerbahce and Besiktas teams, the coronavirus pandemic, the UAE League club said in a statement. crisis, the Lega Serie A announced. All The decision was reached unani- wife said. Recber took on hero status currently works at the Turkish Football FA said. Jovanovic took over at UAE in Guardiola, 49, last month donated football in Italy has been suspended mously by Serie A clubs, with the ex- in Turkey as he kept goal at the 2002 Federation. Galatasaray’s coach Fatih December on a six-month contract in a 1mn euros ($1mn) to buy medical sup- since March 9 as a result of the pan- ception of Juventus, which had already World Cup, carrying his team to the Terim, who had tested positive, was bid to reach the 2022 World Cup. Gulf Times Tuesday, April 7, 2020 3 SPORT

NBA SPOTLIGHT NHL plans August return without fans Miami Heat legend Reuters ance for sports to resume in Los Angeles August was detailed. But NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said the league would defer to ncertainty remains a medical professionals when major hurdle, but the determining where and when NHL is plotting a late it’s safe to resume hockey. Usummer return with The NHL asked teams to Wade stresses unity playoff games in empty ven- provide stadium availability ues to counteract the risks as- into the summer months when sociated with the coronavirus the regular season was paused. pandemic. ESPN reported on Mon- A board of governors call day that the NHL’s primary to dissect options for resum- return-to-play plan focuses ing the season is scheduled on some models “that involve for Monday. There are several games being played in arenas amid virus pandemic issues with the NHL resum- without fans.” ing the season. There are more ESPN NHL reporter Greg ‘Right now, we’re asking the whole country to play as a team, and you see how hard it is’ than three weeks of regular- Wyshynski said Monday that season games remaining on the league is considering “re- the schedule and players were gional” playoff sites rather allowed to return to their home than the option of holding markets — including interna- the playoffs in a single city or tional locations — from which facility. He reported games return flights to the United would be staggered through- States could be severely chal- out the day from afternoon to lenging without clearance late night, similar to the Ol- from medical experts. ympics hockey schedule. Commissioner Gary Bett- That approach has been man and other NHL officials mentioned in connection with participated in a conference the NBA returning for the call with President Donald playoffs, with locations such Trump over the weekend, as the Bahamas and Las Vegas where optimism about clear- reportedly on the table.

Blue Jackets’ star Jones resumes skating

File photo of former Miami Heat guard Dwayne Wade at Barclays Center. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

DPA about joining other sports and enter- ones talking on the front line are,” he Miami tainment personalities in taping mes- said. “So it’s been a little hard for me to NBA 2K Players Tournament sages about the importance of remain- come out and put those messages out. finally delivers thriller ing at home. “And even though we definitely got wyane Wade said Sunday it “I haven’t come out and said a lot to play as a team — to beat this, we After an opening night Friday in which the closest has been difficult to put out on it,” he said during the chat session all got to get on the same page and we games were decided by 16 points, the NBA 2K Play- messages about how impor- with former Heat teammate Udonis definitely got to stay in and make sure ers Tournament provided a much more competi- Columbus Blue Jackets All- Jones was injured during a tant it is to shelter at home Haslem, who joined the video hookup we’re taking care of ourselves — it’s tive day Sunday, as eight players concluded Round Star defenceman Seth Jones game against the Colorado D 1 play. resumed skating Sunday at Avalanche on February 8. because he appreciates how fortunate from his Southwest Ranches home. been hard for me to come out and say, he is in that regard. “And I’m just keeping it real, because ‘Hey, stay at home,’ this and that, be- The best game of the day — and the first round the team’s practice facility. After the surgery, the Blue But, first, the retired Miami Heat a lot of people are coming out and say- cause I’m living in a mansion. We have — was between No. 4 seed Donovan Mitchell of Because Jones, who Jackets said he would miss icon, speaking from his Los Angeles- ing, ‘Stay at home’ and do this and do things at our home that a lot of people the Utah Jazz and No 13 seed Rui Hachimura of underwent ankle surgery eight to 10 weeks. area home on the NBA’s Instagram that. And they reach out to a lot of ce- don’t have.” the Washington Wizards. After three teams won on February 11, is rehabbing A three-time All-Star, Jones feed, stressed the need for teamwork lebrities to do that. He said it is imperative to consider with the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday, Hachimura an injury, he is allowed to has collected 30 points (six amid the new coronavirus pandemic. “And it’s a lot easier for celebrities those less fortunate. “So this world went with the Western Conference-leading Los use the facility despite the goals, 24 assists) and 20 “People think it’s easy to bring 15 guys to say stay at home when your home that we live in has never been equal,” Angeles Lakers and LeBron James, while Mitchell fact the NHL season has penalty minutes in 56 games together and win a championship and looks the way it looks, and you have he said. “And it’s a lot of communities countered with the Brooklyn Nets — whose lineup been suspended due to the this season. play as a team,” he said of the NBA ti- everything at your home that you have never felt equality, what people included the injured Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. coronavirus pandemic. Jones has recorded 258 tles he shared in with the Heat in 2006, need.” talk about. Right now, we’re trying to With his Lakers up two and 4.9 seconds to play, The 25-year-old Jones points (60 goals, 198 assists) ‘12 and ‘13. “Right now, we’re asking Having come from an upbringing in make everybody equal, but the world Hachimura went to the line with Danny Green posted a video on Twitter in 524 career games with the the whole country to play as a team, a broken family and financial distress has never been that way. and a chance to put the game away. Instead, showing himself heading to Nashville Predators (2013-16) and you see how hard it is. in the Chicago area, Wade said he ap- “So it’s been hard for me, as some- Green made the first free throw but missed the the ice with an assortment of and Blue Jackets. “It ain’t easy to play as a team. It’s preciates the shelter-at-home diffi- one who lives a life of privilege, to come second, giving Mitchell’s Nets one shot at sending pucks awaiting him. Jones is the son for former hard to bring people together, to say, culties for many. out and really say a lot of those things. the game to overtime. But Spencer Dinwid- “Feels nice to be back on the NBA player Popeye Jones, ‘Hey, do this, this and this.’ And that’s “In a sense, for me, I feel like we’re Even, though, yes it needs to be said, it die’s 3-pointer at the buzzer was off target, and ice after a longggg 8 weeks!” who is currently an assistant what’s going on right now.” so lucky, we’re so blessed, and every- needs to be done, because we definitely Hachimura escaped with a 74-71 win. Reuters Jones wrote. coach for the Indiana Pacers. Wade said he has been conflicted one isn’t in the same position that that need everybody to play together.”

NFL REPORT Newton willing to wait for right fit NFL likely to delay Reuters since 1993, when rookie Drew Bledsoe off-season phase 1 Los Angeles entered the league. When Bledsoe was injured in 2001, Tom Brady took over Reuters and Matt Rhule with the Caro- and held the job through the 2019 sea- Los Angeles lina Panthers. The New York ormer league MVP Cam New- son. Giants (Joe Judge), Cleveland ton continues to be without a Brady signed a two-year deal with Browns (Kevin Stefanski) and team, but he apparently is will- the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last month. eams are being ad- Washington Redskins (Ron Fing to wait to move to his next The Los Angeles Chargers also have vised the first phase Rivera) are the other coaches NFL city. Newton, the No 1 overall pick been mentioned as a fit for Newton. Af- of the offseason pro- impacted by the first-year in the 2011 NFL Draft, is a free agent. ter not re-signing veteran Philip Rivers Tgramme, which in- rule. The Panthers signed Teddy Bridgewa- in free agency, the Chargers have Tyrod cludes rookie minicamps after Per NFL Network, the NFL ter last month to fill the quarterback Taylor as their presumptive starter. the NFL draft, will be delayed Players Association is discuss- position. The Panthers released Newton on by at least one week, NFL Net- ing parameters of the reshaped ESPN’s Chris Fowler said Sunday on March 24, saving $19.1mn in salary- work reported. program with the NFL with “SportsCenter” that Newton is letting cap space. Team facilities remain a heavy emphasis on virtual the next several weeks play out. Newton, who turns 31 in May, is closed for all non-essential learning using team-issued “I spoke to a source close to Cam coming off of Lisfranc surgery and had — primarily healthcare — playbooks and film study. Newton and he’s willing to wait right a shoulder operation prior to the 2019 employees. Coaches, gen- President Donald Trump now if he has to,” Fowler said. “He’s season. eral managers and scouts are told the commissioners of going to be patient. He wants to get his In limited action in 2019, Newton meeting via video conference sports leagues on a weekend spot back as a high-level starter. He’s passed for 572 yards, no touchdowns and will conduct their entire conference call that he expects highly motivated to do so. There simply and one interception. Overall, he has draft not from the typical team the NFL season to start on aren’t a lot of starting jobs available. So thrown for 29,041 yards, 182 touch- facility “war room” but remote time. The NFL hasn’t released if he has to wait until after the draft, downs and 108 interceptions in 125 locations that follow national a regular season schedule, but or maybe somebody gets injured, he is games (124 starts). He also has rushed social distancing guidelines reports indicate it will be re- willing to do that. He knows the Patri- for 4,806 yards and 58 scores. prohibiting more than 10 peo- leased before May 9. ots or maybe one of those teams could Newton was the NFL MVP in 2015 ple from being assembled. Week 1 of the regular season be looking. He doesn’t know what when he passed for 3,837 yards and a File photo of Cam Newton. (TNS) Monday was the sched- would typically start with the they’re going to do, obviously, just yet. career-best 35 touchdowns while lead- uled start date of offseason Kansas City Chiefs, by virtue They haven’t played their hand.” ing Carolina to the Super Bowl. He was programs for teams with new of winning the Super Bowl last New England enters the season with- intercepted 10 times and also rushed coaches, such as Mike McCa- season, playing host to a game out a returning starting quarterback for 636 yards and 10 touchdowns. rthy with the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday, September 10. Gulf Times 4 Tuesday, April 7, 2020 SPORT

F1 Williams, Racing Point furlough staff as drivers take pay cut

AFP London McLaren boss Brown warns F1

illiams and Racing Point must change to survive became the latest Formula Formula One is in “a very fragile lining up to take over any strug- One teams to furlough staff state” due to the new coronavirus gling teams. due to the coronavirus as crisis and risks losing some of its “I don’t think the timing could be W 10 teams unless some big changes worse from that standpoint,” he their drivers also agreed to take pay cuts yesterday. are made, McLaren boss Zak added. “So I think F1 is in a very Formula One’s 2020 season has been Brown warned on Sunday. fragile state at the moment.” delayed because of the pandemic and The season has yet to start, with McLaren last week became the Williams and Racing Point announced two races — including the show- first team to put staff on furlough their cost-cutting moves a week after case Monaco Grand Prix in May while ratings agency Moody’s McLaren opted to take the same finan- — cancelled and six postponed changed Formula One’s outlook to cial measures. so far. negative from positive. Canadian Nicholas Latifi and Briton The sport has already made some Team bosses are due to discuss George Russell, along with senior Wil- changes, including postponing cost-saving plans on a call on liams executives, have taken a 20% pay a planned major technical rule Monday. cut from April 1, with the other staff change from 2021 to 2022 and A $150mn budget cap, still well put on an enforced leave until the end agreeing teams will use the same above the spending levels of some of May. Racing Point’s Lance Stroll overtakes Williams’ Nicholas Latifi during F1 pre-season testing on February 21, 2020. (Reuters) cars next year but Brown said smaller teams, is due to come McLaren drivers Carlos Sainz Jr and more was needed. into force next year but Brown Lando Norris took voluntary pay cuts the jobs of our staff at Grove and ensur- will also take a voluntary pay cut.” the top-flight teams to have been criti- “Could I see — through what is indicated there was a push for it to last week. “Due to the ongoing situa- ing they can return to full-time work Last month, the UK government cised for using the government’s mon- going on right now in the world if be reduced further — possibly to tion involving Covid-19, ROKiT Wil- when the situation allows.” said it would pay 80% of salaries for ey to pay staff when they have owners we don’t tackle this situation head $100mn. liams Racing is temporarily furlough- As well as furloughing some staff, staff who are put on furlough by their worth millions and players on huge on very aggressively — two teams “You have everyone at $150mn, ing a number of employees as part of a Racing Point drivers Sergio Perez and employer, covering wages up to 2,500 contracts. disappearing? Yeah,” the American and the strong majority — includ- wider range of cost-cutting measures,” Lance Stroll, the son of the team’s bil- pounds ($3,077, 2,846 euros) per month F1 team bosses and the sport’s man- told the BBC. ing one of the big teams — will- a Williams statement said. lionaire owner Lawrence Stroll, will ac- in a bid to help companies retain their agement were set to meet yesterday to “In fact, I could see four teams ing to come substantially under “The furlough period will last until cept a cut in their wages, although the workforce and prevent redundancies discuss ways to protect the sport as it disappearing if this isn’t handled $150mn,” he said. the end of May whilst senior manage- percentage was not specified. during the health crisis. suffers a loss of income. the right way.” There is also some discussion ment, and our drivers, have taken a pay “I can now confirm that some of But the furlough of non-playing staff Teams are reportedly discussing a Brown said the economic and about a further postponement cut of 20% effective from 1st April. the team’s staff have been placed on by wealthy Premier League football reduction of the budget cap, which was health situation meant it should of the technical rule changes to “These decisions have not been taken temporary furlough,” a Racing Point clubs has caused huge controversy. already due to come in force in 2021 at not be assumed anyone would be 2023. Reuters lightly, however our aim is to protect spokesperson told AFP. “Our drivers Liverpool and Tottenham are among $175mn.

RUGBY OPINION French chief wants to replace European Cup Leitch fears Japan with global competition failing to build on World Cup heroics ‘MY HEART IS GENUINE WHEN I SAY I WANT TO MAKE JAPANESE RUGBY BETTER’

Reuters Tokyo President of the French Rugby Federation Bernard Laporte (right) and Chairman of World Rugby Bill Beaumont. (Reuters) apan’s fairytale run to the Rugby World Cup quar- AFP our work what currently exists ter-finals was a highlight Paris at World Cup level: 20 teams Jof last year’s tournament divided into four pools of five but with the afterglow all but and a final phase with -quar gone captain Michael Leitch he president of the ter-final, semi-final and final fears not enough is being done French Rugby Federa- matches,” Laporte said. “The to secure the Brave Blossoms a tion Bernard Laporte whole thing would have to be place at the game’s top table. Twants World Rugby condensed into six weeks.” Almost six months after Ja- to create a club world cup to Laporte said he “can well pan’s emotional victory over replace the European Cham- imagine seeing the semi-fi- Scotland in Yokohama secured pions Cup, he said in an inter- nalists of the Top 14, those of their spot in the last eight for the view published yesterday. the English championship, the first time, rugby, like the rest of “Let’s be frank: it does not top six in Super Rugby, the top world sport, has been brought to generate enough income,” four in the Celtic League, the a standstill by the Covid-19 pan- Laporte told French rugby Japanese champion and the demic. newspaper Midi Olympique. US champion, for example, Even before the unprec- World Rugby, the glo- qualifying.” “We have to cre- edented shutdown, however, bal governing body, is due to ate this competition and very questions were being raised as hold elections on May 13 and quickly. It could be a breath of to whether Japan was fully capi- Laporte is running for the fresh air for the whole of world talising on the success of rugby’s vice-presidency. rugby,” said Laporte. Laporte, first World Cup in Asia. “World Rugby must create who coached Toulon to three There had been talk of bring- a world cup for professional Champions Cup titles said the ing Japan into the southern clubs that would take place competition “would have to hemisphere’s Rugby Cham- every year, outside the tradi- disappear, that’s for sure, if we pionship or even Europe’s Six tional Rugby World Cup win- don’t want to overload the cal- Nations but Leitch said getting dows,” Laporte said. endar a bit more.” Japanese rugby back to a place He said the format would The newspaper calculated where it could compete with the duplicate existing tourna- that such a competition could world’s top sides was a big ask. ments. bring in between 300 and “To get to that point (at the “We can take as a basis for 500mn euros per year. World Cup) took a lot of hard work, four years of hard work, and we did that for a short pe- SPOTLIGHT riod,” Leitch told Reuters last month in the coffee shop he owns on the outskirts of Tokyo. “To do it back-to-back... Fiji players, staff would be a very difficult process. If that was going to happen, you would have to change the way take 40% pay cut Top League operates and have File photo of Japan’s captain Michael Leitch. (AFP) certain times when the national AFP crisis continued, Fiji Rugby team can get together and train. schedule. know how else we are going to five years ahead we need to start administration job. Suva, Fiji would consider leave with- “But at the moment, it is a Leitch said there was a lot rid- develop good Japanese players.” bringing up strong Japanese “Maybe become the CEO of out pay and “further drastic bit... I wouldn’t say disorgan- ing on those tests. The JRFU hope to fill the void players,” he said. Japanese rugby one day,” he add- reductions”, which he did not ised... but we are not focusing “If we start losing those test with an improved domestic “I don’t want to see Japanese ed with a smile. iji Rugby said con- detail. on the Japanese team at the mo- matches then we could get back competition. Some big names, rugby turned into a league that The small coffee shop he has tracted players and “We hope we will not end ment.” to only playing against tier two including Kieran Read, Dan has no Japanese players, or the run since 2015 is his first venture staff had agreed to pay up in such a situation, but we countries,” he said. Carter and Will Genia, had been national team with no Japanese into the world of business but he Fcuts of 40 % yesterday must keep in mind that busi- KEY TESTS “There is a lot of pressure on playing in Japan before the Cov- players. says his skill set would be of ben- as part of a cost-cutting drive nesses are closing, and thou- In an unprecedented move last us to keep playing well and to be id-19 pandemic struck. “There needs to be a way efit in an administrative role. to remain viable during the sands of employees have lost year, the corporations that own competitive against those top The JRFU has also announced where we promote Japanese rug- “I have genuine passion for Covid-19 pandemic. their jobs and we must be pre- Japan’s domestic clubs allowed tier one countries.” there will be a new league format by players and I think that is the Japanese rugby and I can use The union said staffers were pared for the worst,” he said. players to train with the national Japan has also lost its Super from 2021, though it has been next step we need to take.” my English and my Japanese to also being told to use their ac- O’Connor said the austerity team for nine months ahead of Rugby side, the Sunwolves, who short on details. As he does on the pitch, Leitch communicate with different un- crued leave as rugby remains measures had been made after the World Cup. will not be returning to the com- is prepared to back up his words ions,” he said. in hiatus across the Pacific na- consultation with World Rug- Since then, however, the Top petition in 2021 after the Japan JRFU CEO LEITCH? with action, and the future of “I need to now get a busi- tion, which is in lockdown in a by, which funds the union’s League had returned to normal, Rugby Football Union (JRFU) For Leitch, who was born in New rugby in his adopted nation is at ness background so hopefully bid to contain the virus. high performance unit. meaning the players would only and southern hemisphere gov- Zealand and moved to Japan the forefront of his thinking. this coffee shop starts to make Chief executive John “All unions globally are be available to Japan for short erning body SANZAAR were un- when he was 15-years-old, any “After the World Cup, I had six money. O’Connor said the union’s facing significant financial periods before test matches. able to agree terms on a deal. new structure must prioritize weeks in New Zealand,” said the “My heart is genuine when physical headquarters, Rugby challenges and responsible fi- If the coronavirus shutdown is “It is very disappointing,” the development of young Japa- 31-year-old loose forward. I say I want to make Japanese House in Suva, had also been nancial decisions have to be lifted and test matches go ahead Leitch said. “It was such a great nese talent. “I got thinking, ‘I can’t retire rugby better, so if that means closed with a skeleton staff made in order to preserve the this year, Japan will face tier one tool for us to develop good Japa- “It is great that a lot of inter- from rugby, come back here, live starting at the top, or a different working from home to main- operating ability and financial nations New Zealand, England nese players, and for us to not be national players are playing in and do nothing’. I was thinking way of doing it, then I would be tain operations. integrity of Fiji Rugby long and Ireland as part of a packed a part of that next year... I don’t our Top League but if we look about getting into some kind of happy to do it.” O’Connor said that if the term,” he said.

Tuesday, April 7, 2020 GULF TIMES SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Jabeur mulls swapping rackets for dancing shoes

Reuters champion Sofia Kenin of the United handle. “I like to dance, maybe it’s ing travel restrictions to contain the Mumbai States. She also reached the last eight time for me to do some dancing in the spread of the virus. of the Qatar Open in Doha and is cur- apartment. Hopefully the neighbours In the meantime, she is running a rently on a career-high world ranking will not kick us out. But for now we are social media challenge for fans in Tu- unisian trailblazer Ons Jabeur of 39. good. nisia, asking them to send videos fea- is holed up in New York due to But her rapid rise has been some- “Cooking is for my husband. turing tennis at home. Jabeur said she the coronavirus pandemic and what checked with the tennis season Watching lots of films is what we do is receiving lot of funny videos and the Tsays she is contemplating tak- currently suspended until at least mid right now, eating some popcorn also.” winner will win one of her rackets. ing up dancing to remain fit as the ten- July with both the claycourt season Over 336,000 people have tested “I’m kind of stuck in U.S. but maybe nis world finds innovative ways to deal and grasscourt events wiped out due positive for the new coronavirus and I love being stuck here. I’m just here with the lockdown. to the coronavirus-induced travel re- more than 9,500 have died in the Unit- with my husband, who also happens The 25-year-old became the first strictions. ed States, according to a Reuters tally, to be my fitness coach,” she said. “He’s Tunisian and the first Arab woman “I’m not allowed to eat much as I’m with New York the worst affected. trying to make me work out. to make a Grand Slam quarter-final not moving much,” a smiling Jabeur Jabeur could not make her way back “The only thing we are missing at the 2020 Australian Open in Mel- said in a video interview posted on home to Tunisia with countries lock- is practising tennis. That’s the only Tunisia’s Ons Jabeur in action during her Australian Open quarter-final against Sofia bourne, where she lost to eventual the official Australian Open Twitter ing down their borders and impos- thing we are not doing right now.” Kenin of the US in Melbourne on January 28, 2020. (Reuters)

CYCLING FOCUS Kyrgios offers to drop food at doorstep of Cavendish opens those in need

Reuters Mumbai

ustralian tennis up about battle player Nick Kyrgios once again showed Ahis compassionate side yesterday, pledging to help hungry people and drop off food at doorstep for those in need during the coronavirus pandemic. with depression Kyrgios, who was placed on probation by the govern- ing body of men’s tennis over ‘I was dark. And I’m on the other side, thank you. Well, as much as I can be. I think I’ve his on-court behaviour last year, emerged as Australia’s come out of that. And it’s nice to have come out of that. And to look for the positives’ hero earlier in 2020 during the bushfire crisis. talk”. “Don’t be afraid or em- AFP His “bad boy” image was barrassed to send me a private London transformed since his appeal message. I will be more than to the tennis world kickstarted happy to share whatever I have. a campaign that raised mil- Even just for a box of noodles, ritish cycling superstar lions of dollars for the victims a loaf of bread or milk. I will Mark Cavendish says he of the crisis before and during drop it off at your doorstep, no has successfully come the Australian Open Grand questions asked!” Bthrough a two-year bat- Slam in Melbourne. The 24-year-old Kyrgios is tle with clinical depression re- “If ANYONE is not work- spending time in his home- vealing yesterday he was “dark” ing/not getting an income and town of Canberra with the but is now on the “other side”. runs out of food, or times are sport suspended across the The 34-year-old is just four just tough... please don’t go world till at least mid July as stage wins shy of equalling Bel- to sleep with an empty stom- countries have gone into lock- gian legend Eddie Mercx’s record ach,” Kyrgios wrote on In- down to contain the spread of of 34 stage victories in the Tour stagram with a caption “real the virus. de France. However, with the corona- virus pandemic playing havoc with the sporting calendar – Former New Zealand cricketer both Euro 2020 and the Olym- Edwards passes away pics have been postponed for a year – there is no guarantee the Big-hitting wicketkeeper- in the game whom we know Isle of Man-born rider will get a batsman Jock Edwards, who will be hugely missed. Rest in chance to have a go at the record represented New Zealand in peace, Jock,” the tweet this year. six Tests and eight ODIs, has on CDC official account read. The Tour is due to start on June passed away. In his international career, 27. Cavendish, though, is just He was 64. Jock scored 377 runs in Tests happy that should the Tour go Central District Cricket Asso- and 138 runs in ODIs which ahead he will be in a healthy state ciation, for whom he played 67 he played against Australia, of mind for the challenge facing first-class matches and England and India. In 2011, him. 31 one-days in the 1970s and Jock told the Nelson Mail that “It’s not just been my physi- 80s, confirmed his death yes- while some coaches had tried cal health which has been dealt terday. He was also a member to rein him in, he “didn’t listen a blow over the last couple of of the Nelson side that held to them”. years,” he told The Times. on to the Hawke Cup for 14 “I remember when I opened “I’ve battled quite hard with matches between February against India in a one-day in- depression during this time. I 1979 and February 1983. ternational, I was out to Bishan was diagnosed with clinical de- “All the team at CD extend (Singh) Bedi for 41 and Glenn pression in August 2018.” our heartfelt condolences to Turner (the other opening Cavendish said he refused to the family & friends of Jock batsman) was still on three or take anti-depressants but did Edwards…Jock was a terrific four at the other end,” he had seek expert counselling. teammate and an entertainer said. (IANS) “I didn’t take any medication,” mates to take a wage deferral for not far off the form of his peak he said. “Like, this isn’t the time three months the size of which is year in 2016 when he won four or place – we’ll do a thing on it dependent on income and indi- stages on the Tour de France. El- at some point – but I received vidual circumstances. lingworth should know as the two ANNOUNCEMENT help. “It could have been easy for have been reunited with Cavend- “I was dark. And I’m on the me to go through my whole ca- ish at the Bahrain McLaren team. other side, thank you. Well, as reer and only see the kids once “His form is not like 2016 but much as I can be. I think I’ve they’re teenagers,” said the he’s getting there,” said Elling- China’s twerking come out of that. And it’s nice to father of three and who has a worth, who is the team general have come out of that. stepson. manager. “And to look for the positives.” “So to be able to absorb this... “If that was 10 out of 10, he’s high jumper Zhang Not many positives can be to be able to do what mums and somewhere like seven at the taken from the coronavirus pan- dads do, it keeps me happy, it minute. He came to us one or two demic but Cavendish has found keeps me super motivated, and it out of 10, that’s physical, mental Guowei retires at 28 one. He is presently back at home keeps me sane I guess.” and the passion for it. in the Isle of Man having agreed His old mentor Rod Elling- “So he’s progressing really British cyclist Mark Cavendish (also above) celebrates winning stage AFP week moved to the summer of like his Bahrain McLaren team- worth believes Cavendish was well.” seven of the 2015 Tour de France. Shanghai 2021 because of the coronavi- rus pandemic. Zhang was sus- pended in March last year for CRICKET hina’s world silver- an undisclosed amount of time medallist high jumper for breaking Chinese athletics’ Zhang Guowei, re- strict rules on commercial ac- Cnowned for his flam- tivities. Waqar wants policy to stop abrupt format-dropping boyant twerking celebrations, His return to the national has stunned fans by announc- team was blighted by more Reuters one or force anyone. But there having four-five fast bowlers is not ing his retirement aged 28. mediocre form and bursitis, an Lahore should be a policy by the board,” enough,” he said. The colourful Zhang won inflammation of the joints, the Waqar said in a video conference “You probably need four-five silver at the Beijing 2015 World People’s Daily said. with reporters. mature bowlers for test cricket. Championships and also com- But Zhang still had many owling coach Waqar “If a star player suddenly leaves, But for the shorter formats, you peted at the London 2012 and fans in China because of his Younis wants Pakistan or drops a format, it’s a massive need a bigger pool of bowlers, who Rio 2016 Olympics. quirky character, celebrating Cricket Board (PCB) to setback for the team. You’re forced can share the massive workload. “I’m sorry, I really can’t successful jumps in an exu- Bformulate a policy to stop to fast-track rookies, which is a big “Naseem (Shah), Musa (Khan), jump anymore, I’ve decided to berant fashion, twerking and players from abruptly dropping problem and we faced it in absence Haris (Rauf), Dilbar (Hussain)... retire,” Zhang told his 3.4 mil- striking poses, before sprint- the Test format, the former cap- of Amir and Wahab. if we can harness them with Amir, lion followers on the Twitter- ing towards spectators. tain said yesterday. “I’m not saying we’d have won Wahab and (Mohammad) Abbas, I like Weibo on Sunday. His surprise retirement was Experienced quicks Mohamed in Australia with them, but we think we can have a battery of 8-10 However, his form and fit- a trending topic on Weibo on Amir and Wahab Riaz quit test could have done better, benefiting fast bowlers. ness tailed off after his 2015 Monday, with many express- cricket last year to focus on the from their experience.” “And once we have that, we’d triumph and his season’s best ing shock and disbelief. short formats and Pakistan’s Waqar felt Pakistan needed a never be affected by anyone quit- performance of 2.28m, set in The hashtag “Zhang Guowei bowling frailties were subse- bigger pool of fast bowlers to cope ting abruptly and can rotate them. Italy’s Siena in February, was retires” was read 260 million quently exposed in Australia with the demand of limited-overs “Bench strength is crucial. You some way short of the Tokyo times as of Monday afternoon where they lost both the test and cricket and was optimistic he need to create a pool, which even 2020 Olympics qualifying on Weibo. “Big brother, April’s Twenty20 series. could help create one. those on the bench are match- standard of 2.33m. Fool Day has passed,” wrote “Of course you can’t stop any- “The way cricket has expanded, winners themselves.” Pakistan’s bowling coach Waqar Younis. The Tokyo Games were last one fan.