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Thursday, November 16, 2017 TENNIS Safar 27, 1439 AH Federer beats Zverev GULF TIMES to reach last four at ATP Finals SPORT Page 4 IBSF WORLD BILLIARDS CHAMPIONSHIP Russell wins all-England fi nal for IBSF long-up title Multiple time champion beat Robert Hall 1500-1284 in the final for his first IBSF billiards title since 2011

By Sports Reporter Doha

fter missing out on the 150- Up title a couple of days back, England’s Mike Russell put up a strong display against com- Apatriot Robert Hall in yesterday’s fi nal to win the IBSF World Billiards Long- Up Championship at Al Arabi Sports Club Indoor Hall. Russell had lost the fi nal of the short- er version of the game on Sunday to In- dia’s Pankaj Advani, but there seemed to be no remnants of that loss yester- day, when he beat Advani in the semi- fi nals in the morning, before account- ing for 33-year-old Hall in the evening. In the race-to-1500 fi nal, 48-year- old Russell, who had last won an IBSF title in 2011, stitched together massive breaks of 344, 169, 260, 197, 107 and 149 for a 1500-1284 victory over his younger compatriot, who had beaten Myanmar’s Nay Thway Oo in the semis for a spot in the decider. Earlier in the day, Russell outclassed the 150-Up champion Pankaj Advani of India with some big breaks for a spot in the fi nale. In the race-to-1250 semi- Long-Up champion Mike Russell (background, centre) and runner-up Robert Hall (background, second from left) pose with fi nal, Russell exacted some sweet re- their trophies, Qatar Billiards and Snooker Federation president Mohamed Mubarak al-Ramzani, International Billiards and venge of his 150-Up fi nal loss beating Snooker Federation (IBSF) president Mubarak al-Khayarin and other off icials at the IBSF World Billiards Championship prize his 32-year-old rival 630 points with distribution ceremony at Al Arabi Sports Club Indoor Hall yesterday. PICTURES: Ram Chand the scoreline at 1250-620. Advani made a solid start with the Initially both, Hall and Nay Thway, initial breaks of 112 and 291 to take a lead shared close points before the English- of nearly 400 points but when Russell man accelerated to take a chunky lead returned to the table, he explored with of more than 300 points. a few good shots and an excellent top- However, Nay Thway controlled the table fl oating-white game, albeit with situation scoring two worthy breaks of a white cue. He then stitched together 195 and 97, and eliminated the lead. the tournament’s fi rst 500-plus break. The Myanmar player even crossed However, at 551, the ball kicked and he Hall’s score to get really close to wrap- missed the red pot. ping up the match, but he fell short on After exchange of few shots, Rus- position after baulk-line crossing. He sell crafted another break of 189 to tried a recovery but missed on 1239 af- strengthen his lead. Though Advani got ter two shots. Hall made full use of that a chance to make a comeback but he opportunity and scored the required 20 rested after a 130-point break. points to make it to the fi nal. Russell, however, posted another break of 447 to reach 1250 points and QBSF president Mohamed Mubarak won the match. al-Ramzani (left) presents the winner’s Hall made it to the all-England fi nal trophy for 150-Up to Pankaj Advani with a thrilling 1250-1239 win over My- as IBSF president Mubarak al-Khayarin anmar’s Nay Thway Oo. looks on yesterday. England’s Mike Russell in action during yesterday’s long-up final.

FOCUS QFA president meets Oceania Football Confederation chief

By Sports Reporter parties and will ensure the develop- He also praised the current infra- Doha ment of football at all levels locally, re- structure development in Qatar in gionally and internationally. preparation from the 2022 FIFA World Bilateral relations concerning football Cup and applauded the commitment he Qatar Football Association and ways to enhance and develop them shown by Qatar for wanting to show- (QFA) president, Sheikh Ha- further in the future were also discussed. case a tremendous and memorable mad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed al- There were talks about the possibility of event. Thani met with the president signing a co-operation agreement between He said: “Qatar has a high-level of ofT the Oceania Football Confederation the two parties, which will enhance rela- sports infrastructure, which enables (OFC) David Chung yesterday at QFA’s tions and further develop them. The com- it to host the most important sporting headquarters. ing period will focus on ways to develop the events and championships. Hosting big QFA vice-president Saoud al-Mo- co-operation between the two sides and sports events and tournament leaves hannadi, QFA general secretary Man- ways to share knowledge and experience the country and the region as a whole a soor al-Ansari, and Executive Director between them. lasting legacy that benefi ts the present of the QFA president offi ce Ali Dawood They also discussed matters of mu- and future generations of Qatari citi- also attended the meeting. tual interest and the importance of zens and residents in Qatar.” The visit of the OFC president repre- developing them in the coming period The OFC president also wished New sented a new beginning for Qatar-Oce- in Qatar and the OFC and means to en- Zealand the best of luck for today’s ania relations and signalled potential hance the co-operation between the qualifying match against Peru for the collaboration opportunities between two organisations. 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia which if the two parties in the near future. The OFC president thanked the QFA they win, would be their third appear- During the meeting, both parties president for the warm welcome and ance in the global event and would re- discussed ways of supporting football gracious hospitality extended to him fl ect positively on football in the Oce- system, which will be of benefi t to both during his visit to Qatar. ania region. QFA president Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed al-Thani (right) with OFC president David Chung. Gulf Times 2 Thursday, November 16, 2017 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT Italy coach Ventura axed aft er World Cup disaster

AFP tion president (Tavecchio) informed partici- football by sacking the coach. If not, we’ll keep Milan pants at the (crisis) meeting... of the impossibil- stirring the same soup which has proved indi- ity for him to resign,” a FIGC statement read. gestible to so many.” “(Tavecchio) will have the responsibility (to Ventura had defended his leadership as “one ian Piero Ventura was sacked as Italy submit to the federal council) a series of propos- of the best records in 40 years” despite failing to coach yesterday after the four-time als on which the members of the council will be lead the 1934, 1938, 1982 and 2006 winners to champions failed to reach the World called upon to give their opinion,” the statement their 19th World Cup. “I lost only two games in Cup fi nals. The veteran coach’s fate added. A new coach is expected to be named at two years,” he had told Italian television show Le Gwas sealed after a crisis meeting of the Italian the FIGC federal council’s next meeting on No- Iene in a brief interview. Football Federation (FIGC) in Rome. vember 28. Earlier, Damiano Tommasi, the head In fact, since the former Torino coach took The 69-year-old had refused to resign de- of the Italian Players’ Union, stormed out of the over in July 2016, Italy have lost three matches spite a 1-0 aggregate play-off defeat to Sweden FIGC meeting just minutes after Tavecchio re- — against France in Bari (3-1), Spain in Ma- on Monday saw Italy miss the World Cup for the fused to quit. drid (3-0) and Sweden in the World Cup fi rst- fi rst time in 60 years. “As of today Gian Piero “There doesn’t appear to be the mood for leg play-off in Solna (1-0) — winning nine and Ventura is no longer the coach of the national change,” the former Roma midfi elder told jour- drawing four. team,” the FIGC said in a statement. nalists. “Tavecchio has decided not to resign Former Chelsea and Real Madrid boss Carlo But FIGC president Carlo Tavecchio will re- and continue with his offi ce. The others haven’t Ancelotti has been touted by the Italian press as main in his position despite pressure on him to taken a position and said they’d decide in the the favourite to replace Ventura, as the 58-year- also resign after a defeat dubbed in the national future. We need credible elections, with new old is free since being sacked by Bayern Munich press as an ‘apocalypse’ for Italy. “The federa- people, we won’t solve the problems of Italian at the end of September.

FRIENDLY I want another go at coaching Argentina: Maradona London: Diego Maradona criti- has had an inconsistent start to cised the faltering Argentina his tenure since taking charge team yesterday and appealed in June, winning four of his first Stindl denies France, for another chance at manag- eight games, but only one of ing the national side. A day four competitive fixtures. after they lost 4-2 to Nigeria in The Argentines only quali- a friendly in Russia, Maradona, fied for next year’s World Cup who last managed Argentina finals thanks to a hat-trick from at the 2010 World Cup, hit out Lionel Messi in their last game the current set up in a short against Ecuador. Spain held by Russia Instagram message. “I am an- Maradona lamented Italy’s gry because they have thrown failure to qualify for next year’s away our prestige, but it’s not World Cup, regretting the ab- the fault of the lads,” he said. “I sence of “one of the greats” of Stindl’s injury-time strike extended Germany’s unbeaten run to 21 matches WANT TO COME BACK!!!” international football. Four-time Maradona, who is currently world champions Italy missed AFP coach of United Arab Emir- out on a place in the finals Paris ates side Al Fujairah, posted after Monday’s 0-0 draw in statistics of 11 recent Argentina Milan in the second leg of their managers that showed his European play-off sent Sweden ars Stindl scored a last-gasp success rate was 75 per cent, through 1-0 on aggregate. equaliser as world champions greater even than that of Cesar “I am very sorry that Italy Germany played out an enter- Luis Menotti, who won the didn’t make it to the World taining 2-2 draw with France in World Cup in 1978, and Carlos Cup. The Italians always off er LCologne on Tuesday night, while Spain Bilardo, who lifted the trophy in a certain flair to the tourna- were held by Russia in a 3-3 friendly 1986 when Maradona was at his ment,” Maradona wrote on his thriller. France and Germany are among brilliant playing best. “Who won Facebook page. “I watched the the favourites for next year’s World Cup most??” Maradona wrote. “We match and it seems to me that in Russia, and Stindl’s injury-time eff ort draw our own conclusions.” Italy played as Sweden wanted, extended Joachim Loew’s side’s unbeaten The former Boca Juniors and crossing the ball. And they had run to 21 matches. Napoli striker led Argentina to two huge centre backs,” added “We conceded the goal from nothing the quarter-finals in Germany, the former Napoli star, a World to make it 2-1, but we also showed the where they were knocked out Cup winner in 1986. “It’s sad morale to come back from behind,” said by the host nation. Current Ar- that Italy, one of the greats, has stand-in Germany captain Sami Khedira. gentina coach Jorge Sampaoli been left out of the World Cup.” In the two teams’ fi rst clash since the French won 2-0 in the Euro 2016 semi- fi nals, Didier Deschamps’ men scored a brilliantly-worked opening goal in the 33rd minute, as Anthony Martial danced between two defenders and squared for Alexandre Lacazette to tap into an empty net. Loew’s hosts equalised before the hour mark, though, as Mesut Ozil led a rapid counter-attack and played in RB Leipzig forward Timo Werner to slide a fi nish through the legs of the onrushing Steve Mandanda. But the visitors still looked threatening going forward and re- took the lead with 19 minutes to play. This time it was teenage sensation Kylian Mbappe who was the creator, playing a pin-point through ball that Arsenal striker Lacazette latched onto Germany’s striker Lars Stindl (centre) celebrates with teammates after scoring against France during the international friendly Diego Maradona was Argentina’s manager at the 2010 World Cup. before confi dently fi nishing past Paris football in Cologne, Germany on Tuesday night. The match ended 2-2. (AFP) Saint-Germain second-choice goalkeep- er Kevin Trapp for his fi rst international Miranchuk brought Russia level with keeper Joe Hart only had to make three INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY RESULTS brace. goals either side of half-time. Real Ma- saves. Romelu Lukaku became Belgium’s At Saint Petersburg, Russia: Russia 3 FOCUS The 26-year-old had only scored once drid centre-back Ramos completed his all-time record goalscorer by netting the (Smolov 41, 70, Al. Miranchuk 51) Spain 3 in his previous 15 France appearances, fi rst double for Spain since scoring two winner in a 1-0 victory over fellow World (Alba 9, Ramos 35-pen, 53-pen) but sent out a message that he could take against San Marino in 2005, but Smolov Cup qualifi ers Japan in Bruges. The Man- At Krasnodar, Russia: Argentina 2 (Banega Olivier Giroud’s place up front at inter- grabbed Russia a draw after an encourag- chester United striker headed in his 31st 27, Aguero 36) Nigeria 4 (Iheanacho 45, La Liga to use VAR national level, as he already has done for ing performance. international goal from barely a yard out Iwobi 52, 73, Idowu 54) his club. But Germany kept probing and It was still a satisfactory international after some good play from Nacer Chadli, At Doha: Qatar 1 (Muntari 90+2) Iceland 1 snatched a draw as substitutes Stindl and break for 2010 World Cup winners Spain, to take him clear of Paul Van Himst and (Kjartansson 26) from next season Mario Goetze combined for the former’s after a 5-0 thrashing of Costa Rica in Bernard Voorhoof. At Bucharest: Romania 0 Netherlands 3 fourth international goal. Malaga on Saturday. “Russia showed a Portugal struggled to a 1-1 draw against (Depay 47, Babel 56, De Jong 81) Madrid: La Liga will introduce Europe’s top fi ve leagues which The game was played under tight se- high level of play tonight as their players the United States in the absence of Cris- At Bruges, Belgium: Belgium 1 (Lukaku 72) video assistant referees (VAR) has so far shunned the use of curity after a friendly between the two all looked extremely motivated,” coach tiano Ronaldo as Vitorino Antunes can- Japan 0 from next season, joining the top goalline technology, often to the teams at the Stade de France was hit by Lopetegui said. “Russia haven’t played celled out Weston McKennie’s early At Cologne, Germany: Germany 2 (Werner fl ight leagues in Germany and frustration of its teams. While the Paris terror attacks on November 13, any competitive games and their players opener in Leiria. Uruguay fell to a 2-1 de- 56, Stindl 90+3) France 2 (Lacazette 33, 71) Italy in using the system, Spain’s the only use of goalline technol- 2015. Spain were denied a seventh con- worked fl at out in every single friendly feat by Austria, who failed to qualify for At Vienna: Austria 2 (Sabitzer 5, Schaub 87) football federation (RFEF) an- ogy is to determine whether the secutive victory as Fedor Smolov grabbed match. But we also played well tonight.” Russia, in Vienna despite a goal for Edin- Uruguay 1 (Cavani 10) nounced yesterday. ball has completely crossed the World Cup hosts Russia a thrilling 3-3 A young England team held Neymar’s son Cavani. At London: England 0 Brazil 0 VAR involves assistant referees goalline, VAR can be used to de- draw in Saint Petersburg, despite a rare Brazil to a 0-0 draw at Wembley Sta- The Netherlands made it two wins At Cardiff : Wales 1 (Lawrence 75) Panama 1 watching the action remotely and termine goals, red cards, penal- international brace for Sergio Ramos. dium, having also played out a stalemate from two since their qualifying catas- (Cooper 90+3) then drawing the match referee’s ties as well as cases of mistaken Julen Lopetegui’s visitors took control with Germany on Saturday. Tite’s men trophe by brushing aside Romania 3-0 in At Budapest: Hungary 1 (Nikolic 37) Costa Rica 0 attention to offi ciating mistakes identity. There has been a recent through a Jordi Alba header and Ramos’ produced a tame performance in a game Bucharest as Ryan Babel scored his fi rst At Leiria, Portugal: Portugal 1 (Antunes 32) or missed serious incidents. shift in favour of technology fi rst spot-kick, but Smolov and Alexei of few clear opportunities, as home goal- international goal since May 2008. United States 1 (McKennie 22) Spain’s La Liga is the only one of from the federation.

ROUND-UP Liverpool manager Klopp hospitalised aft er health scare iverpool manager Jurgen Klopp was NIGERIA PROMISES TO AVOID PAY pay dispute at one point during the last World The Dutch and Ghana had not missed out since admitted to hospital yesterday following DISPUTES AT THE WORLD CUP Cup and around $3mn in cash eventually ar- 2002. Other nations that could be pulled into a health scare. Media reports said Klopp Nigeria’s football federation (NFF) has signed rived in Brasilia with a convoy of cars bringing an event for World Cup absentees include Cam- had told Liverpool’s medical staff that an agreement with its players which it says will the money to the team’s headquarters. The eroon, Ivory Coast and Ireland. Lhe was feeling ill, and the 50-year-old German avoid the bonus and pay rows that have blighted agreement was also signed by coach Gernot was urged to go to a hospital for further tests. the team’s past World Cup campaigns. In a Rohr and team captain John Obi Mikel, among IVORY COAST COACH “He is being assessed by doctors and will be statement, the NFF described it as an “historic others, the NFF said. WILMOTS LEAVES JOB absent from training on Wednesday as a result,” and binding agreement that will eliminate all Belgian Marc Wilmots has left his job as Ivory the club said in a statement. “There are cur- manner of rancour and distractions around US EXPLORES 2018 EVENT WITH Coast coach after failing to lead the side to next rently no plans for Jurgen to remain in hospital Nigeria’s preparation and participation” at the WORLD CUP ABSENTEES: REPORTS year’s World Cup, the country’s football federa- beyond his appointment and he will therefore World Cup in Russia next year. US football Federation offi cials are looking tion said yesterday. Wilmots departed after six return home this evening; however, he may Nigeria, who have qualifi ed for their sixth into hosting pre-World Cup matches next year months in charge, the Ivorians’ 2-0 home loss require further check-ups in the coming days.” World Cup, have reached the round of sixteen involving teams such as Italy, Chile, Ghana, to Morocco on Saturday ensuing they fi nished Klopp’s full squad returned to Liverpool’s three times and been eliminated in the group Netherlands and the USA that failed to qualify runners-up in their qualifying group and Melwood training ground from international stage twice. The Super Eagles were involved in for Russia, according to reports. missed out on the tournament in Russia. duty yesterday ahead of Saturday’s home clash tomorrow, will return to training or if he will be a protracted dispute ahead of the 2013 Con- Sports Illustrated, ESPN and The Washington The Ivorians will now look for a fourth coach with Southampton but the players arrived with on the Anfi eld bench on Saturday. federations Cup in Brazil and a bonus row also Post reported that US Soccer was exploring in a little over two years after Frenchmen Herve Klopp nowhere to be seen, as their coach had Should Klopp be absent this weekend it will disrupted their World Cup campaign the fol- the idea of gathering top football nations from Renard, who guided Morocco to Russia, and already been taken to hospital. be the second game he has missed for Liver- lowing year, prompting the players to boycott a several continents that failed to reach the global Michel Dussuyer had the job before Wilmots. Liverpool did not say whether the former pool due to ill health. He was hospitalised with training session. showdown for friendlies or a tournament of Wilmots spent four years in charge of Belgium, Borussia Dortmund coach, who is scheduled appendicitis ahead of the Reds’ 2-2 home draw Similar problems have aff ected other African some sort. The Americans failed to qualify for leading them to the 2014 World Cup and last to take part in a pre-match press conference with Sunderland in February 2016. teams. Ghana’s players refused to train over a the World Cup for the fi rst time since 1986. year’s European Championship. Gulf Times Thursday, November 16, 2017 3 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT Postecoglou defers decision on Captain Jedinak fi res his future Sydney: An emotional Ange Postecoglou hailed Australia’s qualification for next year’s World Cup finals yesterday as a “fantastic Australia into World Cup achievement” but still would not confirm whether he would lead the squad to Russia. Midfielder scores free kick in 54th minute and then buries two penalties in the space of 13 minutes The 52-year-old coach has passed up plenty of opportu- AFP nities over the last month to Sydney rebut a media report that he was planning to step down from the job regardless of aptain Mile Jedinak’s second-half hat- whether the Socceroos beat trick fi red Australia into next year’s World Honduras in their two-leg Cup in Russia yesterday as they swept past intercontinental playoff . Honduras 3-1 in the second leg of their A hat-trick from skipper playoffC in Sydney. The Aston Villa midfi elder’s free Mile Jedinak got the job done kick went in off Henry Figueroa on 54 minutes, with a 3-1 victory in Sydney and he then buried two penalties in the space of 13 on Wednesday and while minutes before Honduras scrambled a late conso- Postecoglou gave a hint that lation through Alberth Elis. the pressures on his family The fi nal whistle heralded a massive roar from were behind his vacillation, the 77,000 home crowd at the Sydney Olympic he was in no mood to clarify stadium as the Socceroos went through 3-1 on ag- his position. gregate following last week’s 0-0 fi rst leg in San “Right now, it’s about en- Pedro Sula. It will be Australia’s fourth consecutive joying the moment,” he said. World Cup and fi fth overall, and follows a mam- “I owe it to myself, and to my moth 22-game, 29-month qualifying campaign family, my friends. criss-crossing Asia, the Middle East and Central While I’ve got a thick skin, America. they’ve had to cop what I’ve “It’s overwhelming to be honest. When you are been copping. It’s unfair on coaching your own nation to burden of respon- them. Tonight is just about sibility is even greater, you know what it means enjoying it. Hopefully seeing to the nation and the game,” said Australia coach their smiling faces. What Ange Postecoglou. He added: “They got what they happens beyond here can be deserved. It wasn’t by luck or chance, they be- picked up tomorrow. lieved in something that we started and right to the “I’ll sit down with the pow- end they displayed the resilience and belief that ers that be. Obviously it’s has made me proud all the way along.” important that the planning After a cagey fi rst half, the game unravelled for goes ahead. The draw’s not Honduras when Jedinak, who has been struggling too far away. It won’t take too with injury for several months, struck three times long. But I’m going to make in the last 36 minutes. “Australia were very strong sure I enjoy this one first.” and aggressive and put pressure on us and tried to Postecoglou took over less neutralise us,” Honduras coach Jorge Luis Pinto than a year before the last told reporters. “The fi rst half was more balanced World Cup and led Australia and the handball (for the fi rst penalty) wasn’t in- in a creditable campaign in tentional.” Brazil followed by an Asian Scoring chances were scarce in a cat-and-mouse Cup triumph on home soil opening period, with the best falling in the 37th early in 2015. The former Bris- minute to Celtic’s Tom Rogic, whose shot was well bane Roar and Melbourne saved by Donis Escober. Argentine referee Nestor Victory coach came under Pitana issued a total of three yellow cards, two to fire for his switch to a three- Australia’s Matt Jurman and Aaron Mooy and the man defensive lineup when other to Maynor Figueroa for a foul on Tim Cahill. the campaign to reach Russia Australia were fi elding four across the back, with faltered, however. deep-lying midfi elder Jedinak adding to the rear- The criticism intensified guard, but Honduras posed little threat in the fi rst when Australia missed out on half. Jedinak broke the deadlock in the 54th minute automatic qualification and with free kick which took a wicked defl ection off needed to beat Syria in an Figueroa, but was eventually credited to the skip- Asian playoff before taking per after initially being marked as an own goal. Australia’s Mile Jedinak (left) is congratulated by teammates after scoring against Honduras during the 2018 World Cup qualification play-off football match at on Honduras, racking up The goal revved up the Socceroos and the capac- Stadium Australia in Sydney yesterday. (AFP) an unprecedented number ity home crowd, and Cahill came close with a loop- of matches in a qualifying ing header but Escober scrambled it away off the the spot. Jedinak stepped up and rammed home our duty as a nation of football players to get this zerland, Croatia, Sweden, Denmark campaign. “We did it the hard woodwork. Cahill’s night was over after 66 min- the spot-kick and Australia were two-up with 18 job done and we stuck to our guns and we got here.” Africa: Egypt, Nigeria, Senegal, Morocco, Tunisia way, it’s been 22 hard games,” utes, replaced by striker Tomi Juric and met with minutes left. Deep into stoppage time, Elis gave the Hondu- Asia: Iran, Japan, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Australia he added. “Just seeing them a standing ovation from the home crowd in salute Substitute Robbie Kruse was then brought ran fans a fl eeting moment of cheer when his shot North, Central America and Caribbean: Costa Rica, in the dressing room now, to his courageous fi ghtback from a recent ankle in- down as he closed in on goal and again the referee trickled over the line following a goalmouth melee. Mexico, Panama it’s unreal. They’re happy, jury. blew for a penalty, allowing Jedinak to complete South America: Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Colombia mate. They got what they The Socceroos tightened their grip when Bryan his brace with an identical fi nish into the bottom QUALIFIED TEAMS FOR 2018 WORLD CUP The one remaining place goes to the winner of the deserved. It wasn’t by luck or Acosta was adjudged to have handballed Aaron right. “We’re very grateful, we’re going to another Europe: Belgium, England, Germany, Iceland, Poland, intercontinental play-off between Peru v New by chance." Mooy’s pass in the box and the referee pointed to World Cup,” Jedinak said. “It’s extra special, it was Russia (as hosts), Serbia, Spain, France, Portugal, Swit- Zealand, which was played late last night in Peru.

FOCUS WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS Hat-trick hero Eriksen books M’bodji grabs dramatic win for Senegal over S Africa Denmark’s World Cup spot AFP Senegal at set pieces. Prejuce existent penalty to South Africa, Johannesburg Nakoulma scored a hat-trick which they converted. as Burkina Faso trounced Cape Senegal topped Group D with Denmark’s Christian Eriksen Verde 4-0 in a match played si- 14 points from home and away (left) celebrates with Thomas ara M’bodji scored in multaneously in Ouagadougou. victories over South Africa Delaney after scoring against stoppage time to give Banou Diawara completed and Cape Verde and two draws Republic of Ireland in Dublin already-qualifi ed Sen- the rout during stoppage time against Burkina Faso. Burkina on Tuesday night. (AFP) egal a fl attering 2-1 win by nodding in a free-kick from Faso fi nished second with nine overK South Africa in Dakar on point-blank range. Senegal won points, Cape Verde third with six Tuesday night in a 2018 World the group and secured a place and 2010 World Cup hosts South Cup Group D eliminator. Former at the 32-nation fi nals in Russia Africa last with just four. France U-20 international Opa next June and July by winning Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria and Nguette put the hosts ahead on 2-0 in South Africa four days ago. Tunisia are the other qualifi ers 55 minutes and Themba Zwane That match was a replay of a from Africa, none of whose teams missed a penalty for South Africa game which South Africa won have gone beyond the quarter- before Percy Tau levelled after 65 2-1 last year, but FIFA annulled fi nals at a World Cup. Countries minutes. when they discovered it had been who failed to make it to Russia M’bodji nodded the 93rd- “manipulated” by Ghanaian ref- included reigning African cham- minute winner following a corner eree Joseph Lamptey. Lamptey pions Cameroon, and Ghana and as the visitors once again failed was banned for life after his de- the Ivory Coast, who qualifi ed for to combat the aerial strength of cisions included awarding a non- the last three editions.

Reuters I’m very happy about it.” was defl ected into the net by Ireland’s Cyrus Dublin The Danes also benefi tted from an An- Christie just before the half-hour mark. dreas Christensen goal, that cancelled out “After scoring one goal it was a big knock Shane Duff y’s early header for Ireland, and for Ireland, we got a lot of confi dence and enmark’s hat-trick hero Chris- a late Nicklas Bendtner penalty but Eriksen started to play good football,” said Eriksen, tian Eriksen said his performance stole the show. who plays for Premier League side Totten- in their 5-1 demolition of Ireland “We cannot ignore that Eriksen delivered ham Hotspur. He added Denmark’s second on Tuesday night would be life- an incredible performance and probably soon after and put the game out of Ireland’s changingD after they booked a ticket to next played his best international game, in my reach just past the hour before completing year’s World Cup. The midfi eld maestro, opinion,” Bendtner told reporters. his treble. who had missed a couple of decent chances Despite the plaudits of his team mates Eriksen, who has scored 21 times in 75 in- in the goalless playoff fi rst leg, made no mis- and his central role in the victory, Eriksen ternationals, said there were more goals to take in the Dublin return as his treble put the was his usual humble self. “It’s a crazy feel- come from Denmark in Russia. “We’ll take Irish to the sword. ing, we’ve been fi ghting together for so long this with us and try to score as many goals as “It’s incredible to take your country to since the qualifi cation started,” he said. possible at the World Cup as well,” said the Australia's Tim Cahill trains the World Cup with three goals in a play- The Danes did not panic when Duff y midfi elder, who doused former internation- ahead of tomorrow's World off ,” said 25-year-old Eriksen. “It’s going to scored and a short corner saw Pione Sisto al defender Lars Jacobsen, who was broad- Cup playoff against Honduras mean a lot throughout my career, through- beat Harry Arter before fl ashing the ball casting for Danish TV, with champagne as Senegal’s players celebrate after winningin Sydney. the FIFA (Reuters) 2018 World Cup Africa Group D qualifying match out my whole life, really. It’s a big thing and across the box where Christensen’s shot he celebrated. against South Africa at Leopold Cedar Senghor Stadium in Dakar on Tuesday night. (AFP) Gulf Times 4 Thursday, November 16, 2017 SPORT

CRICKET Woakes takes 6, Bairstow injury scare for England AFP winning four for 17 in the second in- Lyon backs struggling Renshaw for Ashes berth Townsville, Australia nings against CA XI in Adelaide with an even better one, taking four for Australia opening batsman Matt Renshaw’s horror run in the domes- eight at one stage in Townsville. tic Sheff ield Shield has raised speculation that his Ashes berth may n-form England paceman Chris He heads into the fi rst Gabba Test be in danger but team mate Nathan Lyon said the left-hander had the Woakes claimed six wickets and in terrifi c form after he was ruled out backing of the “inner sanctum”. Renshaw has compiled just 70 runs wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow for bulk of last season with a side in- in six innings for Queensland in the first class competition and has had an injury scare as a Cricket jury suff ered during the Champions failed to score a half-century in his previous nine test innings. Selec- IAustralia XI reached 249 for nine at Trophy. tors will name Australia’s Ashes squad on Friday, with the first test the close on the opening day of their “It’s nice to get wickets in any against holders England starting in Brisbane next week. Renshaw four-day tour match in Townsville game. A week away from the fi rst Test, enjoyed a fine home summer after making his debut against South yesterday. it’s nice to hit a bit of form,” Woakes Africa in Adelaide last year and has averaged 36.64 from his 10 Tests. The Warwickshire fast bowler fi n- said. “I felt that it came out nicely However, while opening partner David Warner implored the 21-year- ished the day with six for 54 in the fi - today, which gives me a little bit of old to score more runs earlier this week, off -spinner Lyon stopped nal warm-up game before next week’s confi dence. I’ll continue to work and short of confirming Renshaw’s selection in the squad but said the Ashes series opener against Australia hopefully be ready for next week.” batsman had internal support. “Playing for Australia, you are going in Brisbane. Test hopeful Craig Overton (2-32) to come under scrutiny from the media and the public,” Lyon told The tourists didn’t help their cause also edged closer to his debut. reporters. by spilling three catches as CA XI Off -spinner Moeen Ali had his fi rst “But if you are in the inner sanctum and have the support - which he skipper Matt Short topscored with 51. bowl on the tour after recovering from does - then you can usually get out of that head space and perform England had an early injury scare a side strain. He fi nished wicketless well. The media can write what they want, the public can think what when Test ‘keeper Bairstow was for 39 off 16 overs. they want but, if you have positive energy around the team - which forced off the fi eld for an hour after England’s spin pair Mason Crane there is already - I know there will be support for everyone (in the getting hit on a fi nger. and Moeen were astray with their test team).” Bairstow was replaced by tour un- bowling lengths during the morning Renshaw scored 184 against Pakistan in his last home test in Sydney derstudy Ben Foakes, who took a catch session. Leg-spinner Crane had two in January and is highly regarded for his ability to bat for long peri- before Bairstow returned to the game catches dropped off his bowling while ods of time. Although dismissed for 16 and one in the ongoing Shield with bruising to the middle fi nger of a diving Bairstow also missed an op- England’s paceman Chris Woakes (right) celebrates the wicket of Cricket Australia XI batsman match against New South Wales in Brisbane, Renshaw was taken for his left hand. portunity when Woakes found the Simon Milenko on the first day of a four-day Ashes tour match at the Tony Ireland Stadium in a nets session against Australia’s test fast bowlers. Woakes followed up his match- edge of Simon Milenko’s bat. Townsville yesterday. (AFP)

TENNIS/ATP FINALS COMMENT England must silence Aussie crowds to Federer beats Zverev win Ashes: Swann

AFP touring teams. London “I always think of all the venues, Brisbane to me is the one venue where when you go ngland must silence the out to bat you’re not just fac- to reach last four baying home crowds ing one bowler, you’re facing if they are to stand 40,000. “It just feels that the Bulgaria’s Dimitrov thrashes Belgium’s Goff in 6-0, 6-2 to reach semi-finals any chance of getting whole of Australia are watch- Eon top of Australia during the ing you. They’re the nastiest AFP upcoming Ashes series, said of the crowds. No idea why but London former spinner Graeme Swann. they do seem to know exactly Swann, who retired mid-way that they can get to the Eng- through England’s ill-fated tour land side.” oger Federer held young in 2013/14, described the noise Swann said he had more pretender Alexander levels at the Gabba in Brisbane, confi dence in England’s pow- Zverev at bay in a grip- hosting the fi rst Test from No- erful middle and lower order ping contest on Tues- vember 23, as “unbelievable” batting than the top-order dayR to reach the last four of the and even louder than Real Ma- batting, which is light on expe- ATP Finals and stay on course for drid’s home supporters. rience, but said the home side a seventh end-of-season crown. England are the current have problems of their own. The world number two saw Ashes holders but go into the “It’s not an ideal thing but off a spirited challenge from the lion’s den on the back of two I think the Australians are much-hyped German 7-6 (8/6), 5-0 whitewashes in their past in the same boat,” he said. “I 5-7, 6-1 in front of a boisterous three tours Down Under, al- think the Australians have got pro-Federer crowd to become though Swann was a key part (David) Warner and (Steve) the fi rst man through to the last of the side that won 3-1 in Smith in the top fi ve who are four at the O2 Arena. 2010/11. undoubtedly world class. “It was a good battle and I al- “The thing you’ve got to do is “We’ve got Cook and Root ways enjoy myself at this beauti- stop the noise and the easy way who are undoubtedly world ful arena,” said Federer, who has to do that in Australia is to get class. I think they’ve got some now reached the semi-fi nals 14 on top of them,” said Swann, holes that haven’t been com- times. adding that England’s senior pletely fi lled.” “I have so much fun playing in players such as Alastair Cook Australia are favourites, ac- London and I have been so suc- and captain Joe Root would cording to Vaughan, but are cessful here. Thank you for mak- have to lead from the front. also not the fi nished article, ing it such a special night. “If you get on top of the and, with James Pattinson al- “I’m happy and relieved that team, they’ll quickly turn on ready out, would struggle if I can play freely against (Marin) their own but obviously the fellow paceman Mitchell Starc Cilic, instead of it being a nail- hard bit is getting on top of got injured. biter. It’s been a tough group so them,” he said, speaking at Swann described his fel- to be through in two matches is the launch of BT Sport’s Ashes low off -spinner Moeen Ali as great.” coverage in London in his ca- a “brilliant” batsman and said Both players were scratchy on pacity as a pundit. he could play a crucial role for serve at the start of the match “It’s the most unique wicket England with both bat and but were quickly into the groove in the world, more than Perth, ball, especially given the likely in a tight fi rst set that saw no it’s quicker than Perth,” he absence, at least from the fi rst breaks of serve, though Zverev added. “It does a lot off the Test, of talismanic all-rounder had to fend off two set points seam, especially early on, so Ben Stokes. in the 12th game to force a tie- Switzerland’s Roger Federer celebrates victory over Germany’s Alexander Zverev during their round-robin match on day three of the ATP you get a lot of slip catches “I hope he (Ali) goes over break. World Tour Finals at the O2 Arena in London. (AFP) there. It’s just very alien to there believing he’s a brilliant The 20-year-old third seed anywhere else you bat in the bowler as well because he is. raced into a 4-0 advantage only world so teams struggle.” He really can bowl but he still to see the Swiss charge back to Zverev has the ‘full package’, says Federer Former England skipper doesn’t believe it,” said Swann, lead 5-4. Zverev earned a set Michael Vaughan, a fellow BT adding: “He’s world-class point of his own at 6-5 but could Roger Federer says Alexander ing with Sascha (Alexander),” more time, the young guys in “He’s already three in the world. pundit, agreed that Brisbane when he wants to be with the not convert and Federer made Zverev has the “full package” said Federer. “I see somebody general, to break through these I think he’s going to leave the off ers unique challenges to ball.” his third set point count. as the young German bids to who is working towards the days even though I’m really World Tour Finals, regardless if The 19-time Grand Slam establish a foothold at the pin- future. I think, yes, of course it’s happy to see that there is the he qualifies for the semis or not, champion broke in the fi rst game nacle of the men’s game and really important right now to likes of (Denis) Shapovalov or with a lot of information. I think INJURY ISSUE of the second set to establish push the old guard aside. Zverev, have success. “He had that with Nick (Kyrgios), now also Zverev, the last six months of the season an iron grip on the round-robin who lost in three sets to Federer two massive wins in Rome and making the move early, like gave him everything he needs to match but Zverev hit back in at the ATP Finals, has climbed to Montreal. I mean, that’s going to what Rafa and Andy did, Novak, work forward to. the fourth to get back on level number three in the world after protect his season anyways. The Lleyton (Hewitt), all these guys. “Then, of course, he’s only going Watling in doubt terms. a breakthrough season in which rest sort of is all a bonus. “They were such great teenag- to get stronger from here. That Federer only landed 43 per- he has won five events, including “What I like to see is I feel like ers. I do see a great upside from should be very encouraging for cent of fi rst serves in the second two Masters tournaments. they’re working towards how he all these three guys. What I like him and his team.” for Wellington Test set and it fi nally cost him in the The towering 20-year-old is be- could be playing when he’s 23, about Zverev is he’s got the full 12th game, when Zverev capital- ing spoken about as the leader 24 years old in terms of fitness, package.” Reuters Gavin Larsen said. ised on his third set point to force of a pack of young tyros eyeing planning, organisation, all these With Djokovic and Murray Wellington “We want to hit the ground a decider. their chance to unseat the things. I think that’s nice to see.” missing from the end-of-season running for that fi rst match at The Swiss re-found his focus game’s ageing aristocracy, Federer said younger players in showpiece and Nadal having the Basin Reserve. It’s a special and some consistency on serve Having beaten Federer earlier general were taking longer to pulled out injured, there is a ew Zealand wicket- place to play cricket and we’re in the decider as Zverev’s level this year at the Rogers Cup in make their mark in the modern chink of light for Zverev and the keeper BJ Watling is determined to start the sum- dipped, earning three breaks to Montreal, Zverev went toe to game, with most of the major other players in the eight-man in doubt for the fi rst mer on a positive note.” close it out 6-1. toe with the Swiss great in their trophies locked down by the “Big London event, even if Federer is Test against West Colin de Grandhomme has Zverev has been touted as the NIndies as he battles to recover been retained as a seam bowl- round-robin encounter at the Four” of Federer, Rafael Nadal, a big obstacle. leader of a pack of young players O2 Arena, taking the match to Novak Djokovic and Andy Mur- The Swiss thinks whatever hap- from a hip injury but has been ing allrounder, with Matt hungry to oust the creaking old a third set before he lost his ray over many years. pens this week, the experience named in a 12-man squad for Henry the backup paceman guard but Federer, who has suf- way but he can still reach the “Now, the future? The thing is, is going to stand Zverev in good the Wellington match starting behind Tim Southee, Trent fered only four defeats all year, semi-finals. “I like what I’m see- it seems like they need a bit stead for the future. on December 1. Boult and Neil Wagner in the shows no sign of slipping. An extra player would be Kane Williamson-captained Coming into the match Fed- added to the squad following side. erer, 36, and Zverev had faced yesterday. The world number world number one Rafael Nadal Shanghai in 2005. match. the warmup match between New Zealand host the sec- each other four times and each six looked supreme as he made on Monday before the Spaniard At times Dimitrov, who has “I was just thinking, there are New Zealand A and West In- ond match of the two-Test had won twice. it two wins from two matches on withdrew, made the last few spent most of his early career only a few days in the year when dies but the squad was oth- series in Hamilton from This year, Federer beat the his tournament debut. games more competitive but being compared to the Swiss everything you touch turns to erwise settled, New Zealand December 9. German in Halle but Zverev re- At one stage, a whitewash could only extend the match to great, was playing Tennis of gold and that was the fi rst set,” Cricket said in a media release Squad: Kane Williamson turned the favour at the Rogers looked a distinct possibility as 74 minutes. which even 19-times grand slam Dimitrov, the fi rst Bulgarian to yesterday. (capt), Trent Boult, Colin de Cup in Montreal. he led 6-0 3-0 and 0-30 on the There had not been a ‘double- champion Federer would have qualify for the elite eight-man “Aside from a question Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Bulgaria’s Grigor Dimitrov Goffi n serve before his misfi ring bagel’ at the Tour Finals since been proud. tournament in its 48-year his- mark over BJ, we have a fully Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, outclassed Belgium’s David opponent managed to stem the Roger Federer, who reached the He struck 18 winners, won 72 tory, said on court. fi t squad who have all shown Jeet Raval, Mitchell Santner, Goffi n 6-0 6-2 to race into the fl ow of points against him. semis on Tuesday, beat Argen- percent of his service points and “When it comes on such an they have what it takes to per- Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil semi-fi nals of the ATP Finals Goffi n, who beat an injured tina’s Gaston Gaudio 6-0 6-0 in only faced one break point in the occasion, it’s special.” form at test level,” selector Wagner, BJ Watling. Gulf Times Thursday, November 16, 2017 5 SPORT

NBA SPOTLIGHT No charges against Irving leads Celtics British Cycling or Sky aft er doping probe

AFP what the package contained, with to 13th straight win London Freeman saying his lone set of notes had disappeared when a laptop was stolen while he was on holiday and that Boston are on their longest win streak since winning 14 in a row in 2010 14-month investigation by no back-up copy existed. United Kingdom Anti-Dop- The UKAD inquiry also raised ques- AFP ing into allegations of wrong- tions about the cross-over of personnel New York doing at British Cycling and between British Cycling and Team Sky. TeamA Sky has ended with no charges being brought against either organisa- ‘SERIOUS CONCERN’ asked man Kyrie Irving tion due to a “lack of contemporaneous UKAD cannot punish British Cycling scored 25 points to lead evidence”. for a lack of medical records as this the Boston Celtics to their An inquiry was launched in Septem- does not count as an anti-doping vio- 13th consecutive NBA vic- ber 2016 after British newspaper the lation, but it said it would co-operate Mtory on Tuesday with a 109-102 tri- Daily Mail reported a mystery package with any future inquiry by the General umph at Brooklyn. had been delivered to Richard Free- Medical Council, which regulates the The Celtics, whose 13-2 record is man, the doctor of now retired Tour de conduct of doctors in Britain. the NBA’s best, are on their longest France winner Bradley Wiggins, then a “Our investigation was hampered by win streak since winning 14 in a row Sky rider. a lack of accurate medical records be- in November and December of 2010, The package, reportedly delivered at ing available at British Cycling,” UKAD with the team record of 19 consecutive the end of the 2011 Criterium du Dau- chief executive Nicole Sapstead said wins coming in November and De- phine race in France, was alleged to yesterday. cember of 2008. have contained a banned corticoster- “This is a serious concern... In this Irving suff ered a facial fracture on oid, but Freeman insisted it was the de- case the matter was further complicat- Friday in Boston’s 90-87 victory over congestant fl uimucil, a legal substance. ed by the cross over between personnel Charlotte when Australian teammate United Kingdom Anti-Doping at British Cycling and Team Sky.” Aron Baynes elbowed him accidental- (UKAD) said that despite conducting Team Sky, whose rider Chris Froome ly. That forced the 25-year-old guard interviews with 37 current and former win a fourth Tour de France title this year, to miss Sunday’s 95-94 victory over staff at both British Cycling and Team responded to UKAD’s announcement Toronto. Sky, it had been unable to prove or dis- Wednesday by saying: “We are pleased A plastic protective mask allowed prove Freeman’s claims. that UK Anti-Doping have concluded Irving onto the court against the Nets UKAD said the investigation would their investigation and that they will not and he responded by hitting 8-of-20 now be closed unless new evidence be taking any further action. from the fi eld and 7-of-8 from the free came to light. “We have always maintained that throw line as all fi ve Boston starters “Due to the lack of contemporane- there was no wrongdoing and we have scored in double fi gures ous evidence, UKAD has been unable to co-operated fully with UK Anti-Dop- “It’s a piece of plastic on your face,” defi nitively confi rm the contents of the ing over the last year.” Irving said. “It’s the diff erence in hav- package,” the body said on Wednesday. British Cycling chief executive Julie ing something over your face. It’s Boston Celtics point guard Kyrie Irving (left) drives past Brooklyn Nets point guard Spencer Dinwiddie during the third “The signifi cant likelihood is that it Harrington accepted the UKAD fi nd- almost like having somewhat foggy quarter of the NBA game at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on Tuesday. (USA TODAY Sports) is now impossible to do so.” ings revealed “an organisation and blinders on. An internet hack believed to have culture that, despite delivering on the “When I take off the mask, I can see been carried out by the Russian Fan- world stage, did not meet the high everything. When I have the mask on, Arrested UCLA players arrive in USA from China cy Bears group revealed Wiggins had standards that British Cycling today I’m really dialed into what’s in front medical exemptions to use the banned holds itself to”. of me, my peripherals are a little cut Three American college basketball families and university. on bail but ordered to remain in drug triamcinoline at the 2011 Tour de Harrington added that while the off , but it’s just something you get you players arrested in China for shoplift- “We are grateful for the role that our Hangzhou. France, and again at the 2012 Tour de partnership between British Cycling used to.” ing are back home in Los Angeles Chinese hosts played, and for the The UCLA and Georgia Tech squads France and 2013 Giro d’Italia. He be- and Team Sky had been “a positive Irving, who joined the Celtics in an after US President Donald Trump courtesy and professionalism of the were in Hangzhou for a side trip came the fi rst Briton to win the Tour de force for cycling in this country”, there off -season trade with Cleveland, wore intervened on their behalf. local authorities.” to the headquarters of Chinese e- France in 2012. had been some “blurring of the bound- a mask for 19 games with the Cavaliers UCLA freshmen players LiAngelo Scott thanked Trump, the White commerce giant Alibaba. The multiple Olympic gold medal- aries between the two” which “led to in the 2012-13 season. Ball — the younger brother of Los An- House and the State Department for Shoplifting can bring jail time in China list, together with Sky, has always de- some failings in the way that processes “Just wearing a mask for precau- geles Lakers rookie star Lonzo Ball — their assistance in resolving the case. depending on the value of the goods. nied any wrongdoing but the Fancy and people were managed”. tionary reasons,” Irving said. “Hope- and teammates Cody Riley and Jalen Trump said he personally asked UCLA, one of the most storied Bears revelations led to a wider debate She said that no-one was now si- fully, it’ll get better in the next few Hill arrived on a flight from Shanghai Chinese President Xi Jinping to names in US college basketball with about whether the medical exemption multaneously employed by both or- weeks.” to Los Angeles and exited the airport intervene on behalf of the three play- 11 men’s NCAA championships, won process in cycling was being abused. ganisations and they each had their When Tuesday’s game was over, from the departures level, avoiding ers during his two-day state visit to Saturday’s game in Shanghai 63-60 During the investigation it emerged own procedures for managing medical Irving pulled the mask of his face and reporters awaiting the plane, the Los Beijing last week. without the three players. The rest of that there was no written record of records. saluted Boston fans who were chant- Angeles Times reported. “What they did was unfortunate,” the team flew home afterwards. ing “M-V-P, M-V-P,” — for Most Val- Larry Scott, commissioner of the Trump said. “You know, you’re talking Besides coinciding with Trump’s visit, uable Player — at him. Pacific-12 Conference of which UCLA is about very long prison sentences. the case drew attention in the United “I don’t worry about him getting a a member, said in a statement the play- They (the Chinese authorities) do not States due to the involvement of Ball, Arizona’s Lovullo, Clayborn’s Dak rhythm too much,” Celtics coach Brad ers were on the flight and the trio were play games.” one of three high-profile basketball- Stevens said. “He’ll fi nd that and ob- allowed to leave Hangzhou, where Ball, Riley and Hill were arrested in playing sons of LaVar Ball. Minnesota’s Molitor attack earns viously he made huge plays late in the they were detained a week ago. Hangzhou ahead of a scheduled The elder Ball has become a media voted top managers bumper payout game again.” “The matter has been resolved to game against Georgia Tech in personality by aggressively promot- Marcus Morris added 21 points and the satisfaction of the Chinese au- Shanghai. ing his sons as future NBA superstars Arizona’s Torey Lovullo and Min- Atlanta Falcons defensive end 10 rebounds while Al Horford con- thorities,” Scott said. “We are all very According to ESPN, they were and had travelled to China on the trip nesota’s Paul Molitor were named Adrian Clayborn earned a bumper tributed 17 points and 11 rebounds pleased that these young men have nabbed on suspicion of stealing from to promote his Big Baller Brand shoe Major League Baseball’s top manag- $750,000 (637,000 euro) bonus for for Boston and called Irving’s return been allowed to return home to their a Louis Vuitton store and later freed and apparel line. ers on Tuesday in voting by a media his sack-fest against the Dallas Cow- “great” for the Celtics. panel. Lovullo won the National boys at the weekend, reports said on “Just fi nding his way and doing League Manager of the Year award Tuesday. Clayborn sacked Cowboys what he does, making big plays for At Houston, Toronto’s DeMar from 3-point range. The Spurs, still playing without star while Molitor captured the hon- quarterback Dak Prescott six times us, coming through and sealing the DeRozan scored 27 points to lead six James Harden led Houston (11-4) French guard Tony Parker and Kawhi our for the American League. The in a rampaging display during the game,” Horford said. Raptors in double fi gures as the Ca- with 38 points and 11 assists, going 19- Leonard, improved to 9-5. The Mav- Diamondbacks went 93-69 under Falcons 27-7 win, the second-best The Celtics have not lost since nadian club downed the host Rockets of-19 from the free throw line. ericks fell to 2-13. Lovullo in 2017, winning 24 more single-game performance in NFL dropping their home opener to Mil- 129-113, snapping Houston’s six-game At Dallas, LaMarcus Aldridge games than the season before, and history. For Clayborn the sacks trans- waukee on October 18, a night after win streak. scored 32 points and Australian guard RESULTS reached the playoff s for the first time lated into a hefty bonus, as it took Gordon Hayward was lost for the sea- Kyle Lowry and C.J. Miles scored 19 Patty Mills added 19 to spark the San San Antonio ...... 97 Dallas ...... 91 since 2011. Molitor guided the Twins him past eight sacks for the season, son with a horrendous knee injury in points each for Toronto, Miles com- Antonio Spurs over the Dallas Maver- Toronto ...... 129 Houston ...... 113 to an 85-77 record this year after activating an incentive clause in his an opening-night loss at Cleveland. ing off the bench to sink 6-of-9 shots icks 97-91. Boston ...... 109 Brooklyn ...... 102 they went 59-103 in 2016. contract.

NHL NFL Canucks edge Kings in LA Cowboys owner Jones pushing to delay By Curtis Zupke tinez summed it up tidily after the 15-year NHL player after he spent the Los Angeles Times (TNS) announced crowd of 18,230 fans fi led fi rst fi ve seasons of his career here. out. Cammalleri was reunited with Goodell extension “We just stopped playing our game,” former linemates Kopitar and Dustin in or lose, the Los Ange- Martinez said. “They didn’t.” Brown in training camp, but the nos- AFP Goodell’s extension. les Kings were still going The Canucks were sparked by Hen- talgia ended there. He was scratched New York All NFL team owners voted in May to to possess fi rst place in rik Sedin’s shot off Nick Shore, and twice in October and his ice time sank allow the compensation committee to the Pacifi c Division after got power-play goals by Bo Horvat to a career-low 12 minutes, 38 seconds negotiate terms of a contract extension WTuesday. They were the third-highest and Sven Baertschi, against the Kings’ per game. Cammalleri contributed allas Cowboys owner Jerry with Goodell without needing further scoring team in the Western Confer- top-ranked penalty kill. It could have three goals and four assists and was on Jones pressed his threat to sue approval. ence and the talk of the NHL to start been a steeper climb if not for Jonath- the fi rst power play unit as recently as the NFL and some other club But that was three months before the season. an Quick’s denial of Brandon Sutter on this month, but his role became fur- owners on Tuesday should a Goodell suspended Cowboys running They still needed change. a second-period penalty shot, award- ther reduced with the breakthroughs contractD extension for NFL commis- back Ezekiel Elliott six games for violat- That was underscored by a 3-2 loss ed when Sutter was slashed on a break of Alex Iafallo and Adrian Kempe. sioner Roger Goodell be approved. ing the league’s personal conduct policy to the Vancouver Canucks at Staples to the net. Blake did not say if Cammalleri re- Jones, speaking with Dallas radio relating to domestic abuse allegations. Center that represented their third “We just need to look at ourselves,” quested a trade but confi rmed that station 105.3 The Fan, said he has no Since then, Jones has pressed for de- straight loss, but beforehand the Kings Pearson said. “We all know the way we Cammalleri was unhappy. plans to retract his lawsuit threat and laying Goodell’s extension. traded Michael Cammalleri to the Ed- can play. We’ve done it in spurts. In “I don’t think he enjoyed the role preached patience in fi nalizing any new Other owners reportedly think Jones monton Oilers for Jussi Jokinen in a some games, we’ve done it the whole that he was in, by any means,” Blake deal with Goodell, whose contract ex- was behind comments by Papa John’s swap of veteran forwards. game. We’ve just got to do it for 60 said. “I won’t tell you a lot about our pires next year. chief executive John Schnatter blam- Kings general manager Rob Blake minutes and not 10 minutes in the fi rst conversations but (what) I’ll tell you “He has 18 months left on there. ing a decline in company revenues on wants regularity from a bottom-six period.” is that we came to the conclusion it We’ve got all the time in the world to falling NFL television ratings and the forward group that has seen a rotation Baertschi’s goal came on an in- wasn’t going the direction he wanted evaluate what we’re doing,” Jones said. league’s handing of national anthem of prospects, coupled with the mis- advertent high-sticking penalty by it to.” “We’ve got all the time in the world to kneeling protests by players. fi re reunion with Cammalleri. Blake Andrew Crescenzi in his NHL de- Jokinen, 34, will play for his sev- extend him. Jones, who owns 120 Papa John’s acquired Jokinen in a transaction that but, which happened after 251 games enth team in a 13-year career that “We just need to slow this train franchises in Texas, threatened to came together “fairly quickly” over played in the minors. He was an un- peaked statistically with 30 goals for down and have a lot of time to discuss bench any Cowboys player that didn’t the past couple of days. drafted signing by the Toronto Maple the Carolina Hurricanes in 2009-10. the issues at hand in the NFL and have stand for the anthem. “He’s been a very reliable player Leafs and arrived to the Kings in a He has 186 goals in 905 career games a good, fair input from all the owners, Goodell has refused to demand play- over his career and I think that would 2014 trade. but has one point in 14 games with Ed- which we’re not getting.” ers stand for ‘The Star-Spangled Ban- bring a little stability to our lineup,” “It’s been a long time,” Crescenzi monton this season. Jones accuses compensation com- ner’ as the act, started last year as a Blake said. said before the game. “I’m grateful for mittee chairman Arthur Blank, owner protest of racial inequality and social Top to bottom, the Kings lacked the opportunity.” RESULTS of the Atlanta Falcons, of misleading injustice, has become an issue for US stability when they squandered a 2-0 Vancouver Canucks’ Sven Baertschi As the Kings said hello to Crescen- Edmonton ...... 8 Las Vegas...... 2 owners on “critical facts” about con- President Donald Trump. lead courtesy of Anze Kopitar, who celebrates his goal against the LA Kings zi, they said goodbye to Cammalleri Nashville...... 6 Washington ...... 3 tract talks. Trump says players not standing for achieved a career-high nine-game on Tuesday. (USA TODAY Sports) again. His signing of a one-year, $1 Minnesota ...... 3 Philadelphia ...... 0 Jones denies a New York Times re- the anthem are insulting the nation, point streak with a tap-in power-play million contract on the fi rst day of free Winnipeg ...... 4 Arizona ...... 1 port that he was sent a cease-and- the fl ag and US soldiers. Players have goal at 3:14 of the fi rst period. Tan- Nilsson 23 seconds into the game. agency did not make waves, especially Columbus ...... 2 Montreal ...... 1 (OT) desist letter warning from the com- said they are making a social statement ner Pearson’s steep-angle shot made But the Kings fi nd themselves 0-3 as the Kings’ big off ensive catch. It Florida ...... 4 Dallas ...... 3 (SO) pensation committee after holding only and mean no disrespect to the na- it through Vancouver goalie Anders on this home stand, and Alec Mar- was a low-risk homecoming for the Pittsburgh ...... 5 Buff alo...... 4 (OT) a conference call Monday to discuss tion or military. Gulf Times 6 Thursday, November 16, 2017 SPORT

BADMINTON Saina and Sindhu advance, Lin Dan stunned Agencies In the women’s doubles cat- Fuzhou. The 20-year-old Chris- Fuzhou, China egory, it was the end of the road tie plays Hong Kong’s Angus Ng for India. Ashwini Ponnappa in the second round. and N Sikki Reddy lost their fi rst “When we shook hands be- aina Nehwal and PV match to South Korea’s Ha Na fore the match I felt his hand was Sindhu entered the sec- Baek and Chae Yoo Jung 14-21, cold and I sensed he was nerv- ond round of China Open 15-21. ous,” Christie, who lost to Lin Superseries Premier Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and in straight games at their last badmintonS tournament with a Chirag Shetty also crashed out meeting in June, told the offi cial straight sets victory over their of the meet. They lost to Liu BWF World Superseries website. respective opponents yesterday. Cheng and Zhand Nan of China “I realised that even though he World No.11 Saina beat Beiwen 13-21, 13-21 in the men’s doubles was a past World and Olympic Zhang 21-12, 21-13 while Sindhu match. champion, he could get nervous survived a tough challenge from Legend Lin Dan saved sev- too, so that made me confi dent.” Japan’s Sayaka Sato to seal a 24- en match points before being Christie added: “One of the 22, 23-21 win. dumped out of the fi rst round, best days of my life, I beat Lin The Hyderabadi shuttler de- stunned by Indonesia’s world Dan at his home crowd.” feated Zhang 21-12, 21-13 in a number 17 Jonatan Christie. But for a late rally by Lin, the match which lasted around 30 The 21-19, 21-16 defeat will result might have been even minutes. In both the games, ramp up speculation that the more embarrassing. Saina displayed her class and 34-year-old Lin, widely regard- Christie had an astounding 11 temperament to overpower her ed as the best Badminton player match points, and even though opponent in straight sets. of all time, may soon call it quits Lin clawed back seven of them, In the men’s singles category, as he approaches the end of his the Chinese played a weak shot Sourabh Verma bowed out of brilliant career. Seeded third, wide of the sideline to go tum- the prestigious meet after go- Lin, a fi ve-time China Open bling out of the tournament. ing down to Brice Leverdez of champion, was guilty of a cata- Lin’s great rival, the Malay- France. In a marathon match of logue of errors in going down to sian Lee Chong Wei, had no such 55 minutes, the Frenchman edged Christie in 42 minutes in a shock trouble in a 21-5, 21-7 demolition past Verma 21-14, 15-21, 21-11. upset in the Chinese city of of Taiwan’s Hsu Jen-hao.

SPOTLIGHT BOXING De La Hoya: I can take out McGregor World Rugby denies in two rounds

AFP need. That’s all I’m going to Los Angeles say.” De La Hoya fl irted with the idea of a comeback in June etired Boxing world 2015 only to rule it out a week ‘humiliation’ as 2023 champion Oscar De later. La Hoya has said he The 1992 Olympic gold would be ready to medallist, a 10-time world stepR back in the ring to face champion, was one of the mixed martial arts star Conor loudest critics of McGregor’s McGregor. foray into Boxing earlier this The 44-year-old fi ghter year, when he lost a money- turned promoter, who has not spinning duel with Floyd WC goes to France fought since being battered to Mayweather. defeat by Manny Pacquiao in McGregor, 29, was knocked ‘Certainly delighted for France. It will be a really exciting tournament’ 2008, said he has been “se- out in the 10th round of that cretly training” and is confi - fi ght, which De La Hoya derid- dent he could beat UFC cham- ed as a “circus” and a “farce”. pion McGregor. De La Hoya said he would “You know I’m competi- only consider fi ghting McGre- tive,” De La Hoya said on gor under Boxing rather than ‘Golden Boy Radio with Tattoo MMA rules. and the Crew’, a daily digital “Let’s get it straight: In the radio show. cage, he would freaking de- “I still have it in me. I’ve stroy me,” De La Hoya said. been secretly training. I’m “Only in the ring. faster than ever and stronger “I’ve been working out for than ever. I know I can take the last fi ve months. (My con- out Conor McGregor in two fi dence) is how I feel now from rounds. I’ll come back for that my training. I don’t know fi ght. Two rounds. Just one what it is, but I’ll tell you now more (fi ght). I’m calling him that I’ve never felt so good be- out. Two rounds, that’s all I fore in my life.”

Garcia leaning towards Callaway aft er split with TaylorMade US Masters champion Sergio Garcia will use a new ball and clubs at this week’s DP World Tour Championship in Dubai after parting company with the TaylorMade equipment company. TaylorMade announced last week that it was splitting with the Spaniard, who on Tuesday said he was leaning towards signing with Callaway, whose gear he will use during the European Tour’s season-ending event at Jumeirah Golf Estates. “(I) spent 15 years with TaylorMade, but unfortunately things come to an end,” Garcia said ahead of Thursday’s opening round. “It wasn’t only my decision... I guess all companies change, and the politics with TaylorMade have changed now after leaving Adidas. We couldn’t come to an agreement. So I understand that it’s also diff icult when you have so many top players, to keep all of them.” Adidas announced in May that it was selling TaylorMade to KPS Capital Partners. TaylorMade earlier this year signed Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, the two biggest names in world golf. Other TaylorMade players include world number one Dustin Johnson and former number one Jason Day. After 22 previous top-10 finishes in the grand slam events, the 37-year-old Garcia finally broke his major duck when he beat Justin Rose in a play- off at Augusta National in April. The Spaniard said adjusting to a new ball was more diff icult than the transition to new clubs. Members of the French bid including president of the French bid Claude Atcher (centre) and French rugby president Bernard Laporte (centre right) pose with the trophy after “What we’ve been testing, the numbers have been really good France was named to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup in London yesterday. (AFP) with the balls that Callaway has brought to me,” he said. “Now it’s just a matter of trying it on the golf course and trying AFP majority of 20 out of the 39 re- of backroom ‘horse-trading’ be- outcome would “laugh in the face in a bid (for 2007) with England it in tournament play, and seeing how it reacts and seeing how London maining votes – France, Ireland tween countries. of transparency and process”. that got three votes many years it feels. Then if there’s any changes that need to be made, then and South Africa were barred But it immediately came un- That led to accusations of ago - two of them were from we have time in the off -season to get it sorted out.” from participating in the ballot. der attack from both France and arrogance but South Africa of- England - so I can understand orld Rugby chiefs The fi rst round fi nished with Ireland, who were rebuked by fi cials made no attempt to hide the disappointment.” denied they had France on 18 votes, 1995 hosts World Rugby chiefs, including their “bitter disappointment” Beaumont, the captain of the been “humiliated” South Africa on 13 and Ireland, Beaumont, as they reaffi rmed and “desolation” with yester- 1980 British and Irish Lions beat- after France won who’ve yet to be the main hosts their support for its fi ndings. day’s vote. en in a Test series in South Africa, Aronimink to host 2020 women’s Wthe right to stage the 2023 World of a World Cup, eight. Bernard Laporte, the presi- SA Rugby president Mark Al- added: “Like a game of rugby, PGA, 2027 PGA Championship Cup yesterday despite fi nishing With Ireland dropping out, dent of the French Rugby Fed- exander added in a statement: some you win, some you lose.” behind rival bidders South Africa France beat South Africa by 24 eration, was especially damning, “We did everything in our power The 2023 tournament, the Aronimink Golf Club in Pennsylvania will host the 2027 PGA in an evaluation report. votes to 15 in the second round. telling AFP in an interview last to bring the tournament to South 10th Rugby World Cup, will co- Championship and the Women’s PGA Championship in 2020, The report, widely criticised “We’ve been fortunate to have month: “On security, we have Africa and we expected to have incide with what has long been the PGA of America said on Tuesday. by both France and Ireland, the three great bids,” said Beaumont the same number of points even that right confi rmed today.” regarded as the 200th anniver- Located in the western Philadelphia suburb of Newtown third bidding country, was not after announcing yesterday’s though there are 52 murders a Taking a swipe at the vote, he sary of the sport when William Square and designed by Donald Ross in 1926, Aronimink binding on the remaining mem- decision.“Certainly delighted day in South Africa. It’s crazy.” said the “view of the experts” had Webb Ellis picked up a ball and hosted the 1962 PGA Championship won by Gary Player and bers of the World Rugby Council, for France. It will be a really ex- But Laporte, a former coach been overturned by World Rugby ran with it at Rugby School in will be the venue for the PGA Tour’s BMW Championship next who voted in London. citing tournament,” the former of the France national side and a Council members “who may have England. September. Yesterday’s decision, an- England captain added. former French government min- had other factors to take into ac- It will follow the 2019 edition “The PGA of America is thrilled to return major championship nounced by World Rugby chair- Last month, World Rugby ister, was in more conciliatory count”. Roux complained that the in Japan and, for the second time golf to Aronimink Golf Club,” PGA of America President Paul man Bill Beaumont, means published an evaluation report mood on Wednesday, saying: process gone “opaque” over the in a row, means a Rugby World Levy said in a news release. France will be staging a World which said South Africa should “I’m proud France was chosen. last two weeks. Cup will take place a year before “We’re certain that the best players in the world – both men Cup for the second time, hav- be chosen given it had an overall We had a solid dossier like our Beaumont denied World Rug- the same country stages the Ol- and women – will be pleased, and, when the time comes, suf- ing previously hosted the 2007 rating of 78.97, compared with two rivals. We will do our best.” by had been “humiliated” as a ympics, with Tokyo hosting the ficiently challenged by one of America’s special layouts.” edition. The tournament also 75.88 for France and 72.25 for Ire- result of having the report’s rec- 2020 Games. England staged the The PGA Championship, one of the four men’s majors, will comes a year before Paris hosts land, across a range of criteria. South African ‘desolation’ ommendation rejected. most recent World Cup in 2015 move to May in 2019 from its traditional August date. The 2018 the 2024 Olympic Games. The report aimed to provide South Africa Rugby chief ex- “Just because it went to France which saw New Zealand win a event will be held at Bellerive Country Club in St. Louis, fol- In order to be chosen, the suc- objective standards for a process ecutive Jurie Roux had warned doesn’t mean there is humili- second straight title after they lowed by New York’s Bethpage Black in 2019. cessful bidder needed a simple previously dogged by allegations that going against the report’s ation,” he said. “I was involved triumphed on home soil in 2011. Gulf Times Thursday, November 16, 2017 7 SPORT

HORSE RACING Al-Malki’s Al Muntathar continues unbeaten start with feature win Pedroza guides Al Muntathar past the post a length and three quarters ahead of Qaa’ed, helmed by Faleh Bughanaim

By Sports Reporter Djumana KB (Alberto Sanna). Won by: 2, Hd, Hd. Doha Owner: Mohamed Khamis Eisa al-Kaabi. Trainer: Ibrahim al-Malki. Race 2: 1. King of Doha (Tomas Lukasek), 2. Master- week after he made a winning debut, ful Man (Faleh Bughanaim), 3. Reem Seattle (Saleh four-year-old Al Muntathar registered Salem al-Marri), 4. Al Yarmouk (Harry Bentley). Won his second straight victory, topping by: 4, 2 1/2, 2. Owner: Mohamed Nasser al-Naimi. Athe Al Ruwais Cup, yesterday’s fea- Trainer: Hadi al-Ramzani. ture on dirt, at the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Race 3: 1. Shabah (Alberto Sanna), 2. AJS Lafan Club yesterday. In the 1,900m handicap race for (Eduardo Pedroza), 3. Ehwaz (Tomas Lukasek), 4. Purebred Arabians rated 85 and below, Sheikh Almudhahab (Saleem Golam). Won by: Nk, 1, 10. Ahmed bin Jassim bin Thani al-Thani-owned Owner: Al Shahania Stud. Trainer: Julian Smart. colt, trained by Ibrahim al-Malki, was further Race 4: 1. Shingle (Pier Convertino), 2. Tijan (Tomas away from early leader Suhail Al Uraiq. Lukasek), 3. Succeed and Excel (Adnan Hawa), Coming off the bend, Haddaj Dukhan, who 4. Intenser (Abdulla al-Marri). Won by: Shd, 3/4, 1 had been tracking Suhail Al Uraiq, took the 3/4. Owner: Khalifa bin Sheail al-Kuwari. Trainer: advantage but Ahmed Kobeissi’s Qaa’ed and Mubarak al-Khayareen. Al Muntathar too upped their pace on the out- Race 5: 1. Samhan Al Shajaa (Gerald Avranche), 2. side. Eduardo Pedroza guided Al Muntathar Al Eshrah (Jean Baptiste Hamel), 3. Shmoos (Marc past the post a length and three quarters ahead Lerner), 4. Udai Al Wajba (Harry Bentley). Won by: 1 of Qaa’ed, helmed by Faleh Bughanaim, even 1/4, 4, Hd. Owner: Hassan Ali al-Matwi. Trainer: Has- as Pier Convertino helmed Haddaj Dukhan to san Ali al-Matwi. the frame. Khalifa bin Sheail al-Kuwari-owned Race 6: 1. Jakom (Jean Baptiste Hamel), 2. Akram Al Maftoon was the fi rst winner for champi- (Marvin Suerland), 3. Zuzi (Faleh Bughanaim), 4. on jockey Harry Bentley in Qatar this season, Cannon (Darren Williams). Won by: 3, Nk, 1 1/4. when the duo topped the Class 3 Thoroughbred Owner: Dhafi Rashid al-Marri. Trainer: Mohamed Handicap event for horses rated 70-90. Hussain. The English rider helmed the four-year-old Race 7: 1. Al Maftoon (Harry Bentley), 2. Shabbab gelding to victory by two lengths and a quarter, (Saleem Golam), 3. Technicolour (Faleh Bughanaim), with Deborah Mountain’s Shabbab second un- 4. Djaouad (Jean Baptiste Hamel). Won by: 2 1/4, 4 der Saleem Golam, and stablemate Technicol- 1/2, 2. Owner: Khalifa bin Sheail al-Kuwari. Trainer: our third under Qatari jockey Bughanaim. Mohamed Jassim Ghazali. After missing out on a victory earlier in the Race 8: 1. Al Muntathar (Eduardo Pedroza), 2. Qaa’ed day, trainer Mohamed Hussain had a winner (Faleh Bughanaim), 3. Haddaj Dukhan (Pier Con- in the Local Thorougbred Handicap event for vertino), 4. Stam Al Naif (Stephan Ladjadj). Won by: 1 horses rated 80 and below, with Jean Baptiste 3/4, 1, 2. Owner: Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Thani Hamel helming Jakom to a comfortable win. al-Thani. Trainer: Ibrahim al-Malki. Jockey Eduardo Pedroza (left) rides Al Muntathar to victory in the Al Ruwais Cup at the QREC yesterday. PICTURES: Juhaim Jakom was slow off the gates but made up for it in the fi nal two furlongs, and eventually build- ing up a healthy advantage in the fi nal 100m for a three-length victory over Mohamed Rashid al-Kuwari’s Akram and Mountain’s Zuzi. Gerald Avranche guided Hassan Ali al-Mat- wi’s Samhan Al Shajaa to his second victory in Qatar, when the three-year-old topped the Purebred Arabian Handicap event for horses rated 75 and below. Avranche had his ride track early leader Udai Al Wajba, ridden by Harry Bentley, but took the advantage on the fi nal stretch. Half a furlong out, the colt had built a healthy advantage on Mohamed Salama Ashour’s Al Eshrah, eventu- ally cruising past for a win, even as Marc Lerner guided Shmoos to third. Mubarak al-Khayareen-trained Shingle edged out Owaida Salem al-Hajri’s ward Tijan in a thrilling fi nish to win the Class 5 Thorough- bred Handicap event for horses rated 75 & be- low. Early leader Succeed and Excel, ridden by Adnan Hawa, fi nished third even as Convertino guided Shingle to the gelding’s fi rst victory around QREC, while Tijan opened his season with an impressive runner-up fi nish. Earlier in the day, al-Malki-trained Walaa and Julian Smart-schooled Shabah were the two Purebred Arabians to shed their respective maiden statuses, while Hadi al-Ramzani’s ward King of Doha registered his fi rst career win on his 35th attempt.

RESULTS Race 1: 1. Walaa (Anas al-Seyabi), 2. AJS Al Zubara Abdullah bin Shamsan al-Sada, Sheikh Faisal bin Hamad bin Jassim al-Thani and Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) vice chief steward Abdullah Rashid al-Kubaisi with the winners of the Al Ruwais (Tomas Lukasek), 3. Rahibah (Harry Bentley), 4. Cup, after Al Muntathar won the 1,900m feature at the QREC yesterday.

QATAR ROUND-UP CYCLING Qatari golfers off to Tunisia QCTF conducts UCI coaching course for Arab Championship A five-day course was conducted by UCI atar’s golf team del- tion (QBWF) headquarters on regular visits to national sport tutor Scott Budgen to 20 new coaches. egation left Doha on Tuesday. During the visit, the federations to back their per- Tuesday to Tunisia Secretary General met with formance under the new QOC to participate in the Yousef al-Kazem, the QBWF strategy and vision. 18thQ Arab Golf Championship President. The meeting was (youth and juniors), which will also attended by Khaleel Ibra- PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY be held from today till Sunday. him al-Jaber, the Director of FOR GYMNASTICS WORLD The delegation is chaired by QOC’s Sport Aff airs Depart- CHAMPIONSHIPS Fahad Nasser al-Nuaimi, the ment, Khaled al-Mass, the The organising committee of Qatar Golf Association (QGA) QBWF Secretary General and the FIG Artistic Gymnastics Secretary General. On the senior QBWF employees. World Championships 2018 sidelines of the championship, In the meeting with the continued its regular arrange- the Executive Offi ce members QBWF offi cials, al-Buenain ments and preparations to of the QGA will hold a meeting received a brief presentation on host the prestigious event. Ali for the upcoming General As- the vision, goals, road map and al-Hitmi, the President of the sembly meeting scheduled on the prospective participation in Qatar Gymnastics Federation November 30 in Jordan. the next championships. (QGF) and Championship’s Al-Kazem highlighted the Executive Director held a QOC SECRETARY mechanism of performance productive meeting with the GENERAL VISITS QBWF at the QBWF and the ongoing committee members. The The Qatar Olympic Commit- eff ort to focus talents who will meeting focused on the initial tee Secretary General, Jassim represent Qatar internationally. arrangements required to max- Rashid al-Buenain made an The QOC Secretary General imise the organisational level in inspection visit to the Qatar visit to the QBWF headquar- order to host exceptional World Boxing and Wrestling Federa- ters comes in the wake of his Championships in Doha. atar Cycling and Triathlon Federa- ing to the riders in each cycling discipline. 2016 UCI Road World Championships in tion (QCTF) in co-operation with Coaches learned the fundamentals of tech- Doha. Last year’s UCI World Championships International Cycling Union (UCI) nique and how to deliver eff ective coaching inspired a new wave of popularity for our successfully completed the UCI sessions. The course concluded with theo- sport, and these newly-qualifi ed coaches will XAVI RECOVERS FROM BACK INJURY levelQ 1 coaching course. A fi ve-day course, ry and practical exam which all applicants play a key role in developing cycling through- led by UCI tutor Scott Budgen, conducted passed. Dr. Mohamed al-Kuwari, President out the country. Doha: Star playmaker Xavi Hernandez will session too. He did not play in the Al Ahli match the course to 20 new coaches with diff erent of QCTF congratulated all the new coaches “I am also delighted to learn that the mass return to action from injury for Al Sadd when either. However, Hamroun had scored two goals backgrounds and communities which will and added: “Coaching course is not only a participation event ‘Ride of Champions’, they host Umm Salal in the eighth round of QNB in Al Sadd’s 4-5 defeat at the hands of Al Arabi help them to give much-needed knowledge key moment for Qatar Cycling Federation in a which was held in parallel with Doha 2016, Stars League on Sunday. The World Cup and in Round 4 of the QSL Cup, where they exited to young national riders and fast growing cy- much bigger strategy plan but also a legacy of has been continued. More than 1000 local cy- European Championship winner with Spain had Group B without a single point. cling community in Qatar. Held at Qatar Ol- the inspiration that the world championships clists will take to the roads on November 24th missed their Round 7 fixture against Al Ahli, The Wolves will also have the services of ympic Academy, the course consisted diff er- provided Qatar in 2016. We are very happy to for the country’s biggest cycling event. There which they won 2-1, with a back injury. Qatar internationals, such as Saad al-Sheeb, ent modules from basic principles of training have gained new coaches which can help to is no doubt that the 2016 UCI Road World Xavi seemed to have recovered from it as he Hassan al-Haydous, Salem al-Hajri, Boualem to nutrition, planning and other important grow sport of cycling.” Championships were extremely positive for took part in team training on Tuesday evening. Khoukhi and Musaab Khader, who played in aspects of training. UCI President David Lappartient said: “I cycling in Qatar, and on behalf of the UCI I Algerian midfielder Jugurtha Hamroun, who the friendlies against the Czech Republic and The knowledge that was gained in the would like to congratulate the Qatar Cycling wish the Qatar Cycling Federation and local was also nursing an injury, attended the training Iceland. course by the new coaches is fundamental to Federation for hosting this coaching course, clubs continued success in capitalising on the ensuring that they impart appropriate coach- which is a fi rst for Qatar and a legacy of the momentum created by this major UCI event.”

Thursday, November 16, 2017 GULF TIMES SPORT

FOCUS From fi ght to fl ight: Team Qatar’s Abdalelah Haroun If not for a teacher at school, the young sprint sensation, the London 2017 bronze-medallist, would have been a boxer

By Sports Reporter England, early next year. “Next season Doha will be big and important for me. We have big goals ahead for which I have started my training early this season. I eam Qatar’s Abdalelah have new plans, schedules and training Haroun is a prodigious young camps with support from the Athletics talent who this season has Federation, QOC, my coach, and the once again established himself administration,” he said. Tas one of the world’s most promising young sprinters after he added 2017 “My victory in London was World Championship bronze to his diff erent to my other growing athletics accolades. achievements. I needed to do Still only 20, the biggest career something for my country and disappointment of the 2016 world make the people of Qatar happy” youth champion and world indoor silver medallist came when he failed Such a demanding training schedule to progress to the Rio 2016 Olympic means that Haroun has had to make fi nal. It is this that is driving him to his many sacrifi ces in order to achieve his ultimate dream of achieving Olympic dreams, in particular foregoing the op- glory for Qatar at Tokyo 2020. portunity to continue his studies. “I al- Haroun’s life could have taken a ways wanted to continue my studies and very diff erent direction when his early I still do but my sport consumes all my sporting career saw him follow his time so eventually I have become ok with family and friends into boxing. this. I always say to myself that since I’m “My uncle is a boxer and all my friends not able to continue my studies, I will where I live are also boxers. I used to go achieve my dreams in athletics.” with them to the boxing gym, which Over the next two years, Haroun’s made me love the sport,” he said. biggest dreams are the World Champi- However, it was a teacher at school onships in Doha in 2019 and the Tokyo that spotted his athletics talent and 2020 Olympics. Doha 2019 provides a encouraged him to take up the sport. unique opportunity for Team Qatar to “My teacher said, ‘Haroun, you are a compete on the world’s biggest stage fast runner, why not take up athletics’, in front of a home-crowd, and Haroun so I did and it felt like the right place is relishing the chance to build on his for me. I loved it.” London success. “Doha hosting the IAAF 2019 is so “My uncle is a boxer and all my important to me and my future. It is friends where I live are also one of my biggest career focuses. I boxers. I used to go with them to want to achieve even more than what I the boxing gym, which made me did in London. This is my dream.” love the sport,” Haroun said camp in Ethiopia for 5 months. We kept and be fully prepared every time I enter make it to the fi nal,” he said. he claimed bronze at the London 2017 One year later, it is the opportunity reminding ourselves about the impor- the track,” he said. It was the support of those closest to World Championships, an achieve- to achieve Olympic glory and make up Haroun showed a natural aptitude tance of this championship and there Every sporting career comes with its Haroun that pulled him through. ment that he dedicated to his country. for his past mistakes that is Haroun’s for athletics and saw a very quick rise was a time when I was so stressed that setbacks and not even this experience “I felt depressed for the fi rst few “My victory in London was diff erent ultimate goal: “In Tokyo 2020 I want to up the world ranks, achieving his fi rst I went to the competition afraid and prepared Haroun for his lowest point days and I felt I couldn’t complete the to my other achievements. I needed to make up for what I missed in Rio and major title at the age of 18 when he won not sure that I would win,” he said. ever, which came just a few weeks after season. But my family and friends kept do something for my country and make perform better. I’m much better now, the 2015 Asian Athletics Champion- It wasn’t until moments before the the World Youth Championships when pushing me to continue and reminded the people of Qatar happy, especially in ready and focused — and I want 2020 ships, beating two-time defending race that Haroun changed his mindset. he failed to progress to the Rio 2016 me that I’m at the very beginning of the low moments that we lived in back to start tomorrow!” champion Yousef Masrahi of Saudi “When I entered the fi eld, I saw the Olympic fi nal. my sporting career and that I have to then. I got bronze, Mutaz [Barshim] got Despite the intense training and Arabia in the process. fear in the eyes of the runners. I said to be patient to achieve greater success in gold and our other athletes performed serious ambitions, Haroun is able to His electric form continued into myself that this is my chance, I am not “The worst moment of my career the future,” he said. very well. We did what we could to maintain a fun and hugely likeable side the early 2016 season and he claimed afraid and I can win the gold.” was in Rio. I left the competition “I learned from the mistakes espe- make our country proud!” to his personality that he takes with further major titles with Asian Indoor His new-found confi dence paid off in the semi-fi nal and I locked cially in the block start and in the way him everywhere he goes. gold on home soil in Doha, followed by and Haroun stormed to victory with a myself away aft er that moment I used to focus while running. I learned “Doha hosting the IAAF 2019 is so “My character is the same every- an incredible World Indoor silver just a season’s best of 44:81. until the fi nal” to be fully focused in everything I do, in important to me and my future. where, at home, with my family, my few weeks later in Portland. Haroun attributes his early boxing competitions and in training from the It is one of my biggest career brothers, my friends, and at the fi eld. However, his key focus for the foundations to his ability to stay calm “The worst moment of my career beginning to the end, to focus on the focuses. I want to achieve even They say Haroun is the same. I like to 2016 season was on the World Youth under pressure. “Boxing helped me was in Rio. I left the competition in the way I run and balance myself to avoid more than what I did in London” have fun times with my friends, we tell Championships later in the year but to not fear anything and this is very semi-fi nal and I locked myself away mistakes and injuries.” jokes, sing and have fun together. My he almost jeopardised his potential by important in athletics. Boxing is a hard after that moment until the fi nal. I did Haroun’s persistence and refreshed Following a short season-ending personality helps me to be prepared for putting too much pressure on himself. game because you might get punched not eat or drink anything. My room- approach paid off and just one year break, Haroun is already back to inten- anything. It also motivates me to do the “At the beginning of the season I at any moment. This helps me to stay mate was talking me through this and later he went from the lowest point of sive training ahead of the World Indoor best I can so I can go back to continue trained very hard with my coach in a very calm, not be afraid of anything comforting me but all I wanted was to his career to the happiest moment as Championships in Birmingham, enjoying the fun times with my people.”

EQUESTRIAN CRICKET Qatar Show Jumping C’ship from today India want Sri Lanka By Sports Reporter Doha to make them he QNB Qatar International Show Jumping Championship will kick off today at the Qatar Equestrian Federa- ‘uncomfortable’: Kohli tion’s outdoor arena. TThe annual QR1.7mn four-star event, AFP which has attracted top riders from Asia and Kolkata Europe, is also the Arabian League qualifying event for the World Cup to be held in France next April. ndia want underdogs Sri Qatar’s Bassem Hassan Mohamed will be in Lanka to force them into action for the fi rst time since his phenomenal an “uncomfortable” zone win in the Doha leg of the Global Champions in their latest Test series Tour at Al Shaqab last weekend. Istarting today, captain Virat Currently second in the Arabian League Kohli said. rankings, Bassem will hope to seal his spot Kohli said his world number for World Cup finals over the next two one Test side have to use the se- weekends, with Al Rayyan championship ries to toughen up ahead of their also scheduled to be held at QEF from No- visit to South Africa in January vember 23-25. and England later in 2018. Sheikh Ali bin Khalid al-Thani is another “If you can embrace playing home in July-September. time and keep cricket exciting star Qatari rider in the fi eld, besides other lo- in diffi cult conditions that will The humiliating show and keep it competitive through cal talents who ply their trades in the National Sheikh Ali bin Khalid al-Thani and other Qatari riders and off icials pose ahead of the QNB Qatar be the diff erence,” Kohli told prompted Sri Lanka’s selec- out the year. That point will be Series Hathab. International Show Jumping Championship. PICTURES: Lotfi Garsi reporters. tion panel, led by batting great discussed in future defi nitely.” Two-time Global Champions Tour winner “We want to be uncomfort- Sanath Jayasuriya, to resign. Kohli said India “have to be Edwina Tops-Alexander of Australia will be able, we want to embrace being Kohli said India and Sri Lanka at our absolute top intensity all the other star attraction along with Athina uncomfortable and that’s the had to put on an exciting show to the time”. Onassis of Greece, Jordan’s Hani Bisharat Ib- most important thing. ward off suggestions that some of Sri Lanka skipper Dinesh rahim, Vladimir Tuganov of Russia and Tur- “We want to build our games the sheen has been stripped from Chandimal confi rmed mean- key’s Derin Demirsoy. in such a way that we want to the series because the neighbours while that veteran Angelo Riders from UK, Indonesia, Uzbekistan and look forward to playing any- have played so many times in re- Mathews will bat at the key Pakistan will also make their presence felt. where in the world.” cent years. number four position, but will There are nine classes in total with three India are unbeaten in a home The two played Tests in Sri not bowl as he recovers from each to be contested today, tomorrow and on series in any format since being Lanka in 2015 then a limited injury. Saturday. defeated by South Africa in a overs series in India in 2016, “He gives us confi dence as a Organisers have also planned fun zones one-day challenge in 2015. ahead of the two tours this year. batting unit,” said Chandimal. around the venue in a large scale, including Sri Lanka are yet to win a Test India will travel to Sri Lanka “He will bat at number four. the Pony rides and other fun activities for on Indian soil, but they head for in 2018 to play the Independ- He has all the experience, and at kids. the opener in Kolkata with re- ence Cup T20 tournament. the top of the order, and we will There will also be raffl e draw for fans, with newed hopes after winning two Kohli acknowledged the risk get maximum out of it.” entry to the venue over three days being free. Tests against Pakistan in the of overkill. Mathews has not scored a The two events will be broadcast on Al Kass United Arab Emirates last month. “It defi nitely has to be taken Test hundred since August 2015, sports channel. Sri Lanka do not have happy into consideration because you typifying Sri Lanka’s slump in memories from their last en- don’t want fans going away the past three years. Vet check is conducted on a horse which will counter against the Indians. from the game,” he said. The second Test begins on take part in the QNB Qatar International Show They lost all three Tests, fi ve “We have to maintain a bal- November 24 in Nagpur with Jumping Championship from today at the Qa- one-day internationals and ance of how to engage fans and the fi nal match in Delhi from tar Equestrian Federation’s outdoor arena. a Twenty20 international at keep players fresh at the same December 2.