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FOOTBALL Friday, November 10, 2017 Safar 21, 1439 AH Germany to test World Cup GULF TIMES options at Wembley SPORT Page 2 FOCUS Maikel-Verdi duo steal the show on fi rst day of GCT A total of nine riders made it to the jump-off after a intense round of competition, which saw 48 riders taking part

RALLYINGAGREEMENT Maikel Van der Vleuten and his 15-year-old horse VDL Groep Verdi TN in action at Al Shaqab yesterday. Qatar joins hands with Czech Republic to develop football

By Sports Reporter ciations’ objectives to co-operate and Doha support the development of football in both countries by organising training sessions and camps, friendly matches, he Qatar Football Association development workshops for techni- (QFA) and the Football Asso- cal staff , and exchanging knowledge ciation of the Czech Republic and expertise for the mutual benefi t of (FACR) signed a co-operation both parties. Tagreement yesterday at Al Bidda Tow- General Secretary of the QFA, Man- er. soor al-Ansari, said: “I would like to Prior to the signing ceremony, welcome everyone here today. There Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed is a large scope of work we can co- al-Thani, President of the QFA, re- operate in through this co-operation ceived Roman Berbr, Second Vice- agreement. We have a lot of state of President of the FACR, Rudolf epka, the art facilities in Qatar, this includes FACR General Secretary, and FACR Aspire Zone Foundation, Aspire Acad- delegation in his offi ce to discuss mat- emy and Aspetar which can be used by ters of mutual interests while stressing the FACR in the future.” We have an on the importance of building on the interesting referees programme as we relationship between the two associa- have a very strong presence in Asia and tions and developing it further in the the average age of our professional ref- future for the mutual benefi t of both erees is mid-twenties. parties. “We will look at other opportunities Following the meeting, the QFA Vice to benefi t from the FACR as they have a President Saoud al-Mohannadi and great football history and made many Roman Berbr, Second Vice-President achievements in the football sector. of the FACR, inked the agreement in There will also be a dedicated taskforce the presence of the QFA General Sec- that will oversee how the terms of the retary Mansoor al-Ansari, Executive MoU can be activated in the future for Director of the QFA President offi ce the benefi t of both associations.” By Sahan Bidappa fore Dutchman Maikel van der Vleu- Ali Dawood, QFA Director of Opera- General Secretary of the FACR, Doha ten and VDL Groep Quatro showed all tions of National Teams Department Rudolf epka of FACR, commented: their agility at high speed to take the Ahmed Abbassi, FACR General Secre- “Firstly, we as the Football Associa- lead in 25.60s. tary Rudolf epka, FACR Chairman of tion of Czech Republic, we would like utchman Maikel van der But Zanotelli beat the competition the League Football Association (LFA) to really thank QFA for their great hos- Vleuten and his 15-year-old with his long-striding 13-year-old Dušan Svoboda and General Director pitality and for their invitation for the VDL Groep Verdi TN won Extra Van Essene. The duo showed of STES (FACR’s marketing partner) November friendly games. Dthe feature event in a thrill- tremendous team work, scorching Martin Malík. “They are friendly matches, but ing fashion as the Global Champions home clear in 24.35secs. The upcoming period will witness they are very competitive and we are Tour kicked-off at the Al Shaqab arena Smolders, who made history this the establishment of a joint work- very glad that we played a great game yesterday. season by winning the 2017 tour out- ing group which will study the legal against Iceland, the team that qualifi ed Van der Vleuten beat the time of right at the penultimate leg in Rome, frameworks in detail in order to acti- for the upcoming World Cup in Russia, his nearest rival Belgian rider Gregory threatened to beat Zanotelli’s time vate the agreement. A plan of action and we look forward to playing Qatar Wathelet with Forlap by just .08 sec- with Zinius. But the pair, despite a will also be prepared, which will in- on Saturday.” onds to clinch the 1.50/1.55m CSI5* blazing round, fell 0.3secs short of the clude a report on the most important Commenting on the friendly match class. Brazilian Eduardo Menezes with winning time to settle for runner-up achievements, schedule of activities played against Iceland on Wednesday Poden Farms’ Galip fi nished third. spot. Von Eckermann and Cantin- and events that will bring together the 8 November, the FACR General Sec- A total of nine riders made it to the ero put in some brave manoeuvres, but two associations in the coming period. retary said: “As a spectator attend- jump-off after a intense round of com- had to be content with third place fi n- The agreement is also set to establish a ing a match in Qatar in November, the petition, which saw 48 riders taking ish. framework to strengthen co-operation weather was nice in the stadium and the fi eld. Van der Vleuten was in right between both associations and to en- the players were also happy with it. sync with VDL Groep Verdi Tn as the GCT RESULTS hance football growth and develop- The stadium and pitch quality were in pair took out strides to cross the fi nish CSI5* 1.50/1.55m Table A: Against the ment in the two countries. excellent condition and we were happy line in 37.73 secs. Clock with Jump-Off The signing of the co-operation we won the friendly match against Ice- Wathelet and Forlap quickly found 1. Maikel van der Vleuten (the Nether- agreement demonstrates both asso- land.” top gear. But a slip on the turn back to lands) VDL Groep Verdi Tn. Time: 37.73 the vertical – despite a quick recovery secs. Prize money: 30,360 Euros – would mean they would be a fraction 2. Gregory Wathelet (Belgium) Forlap behind, fi nishing on 37.85 and Wathe- 37.85 secs. 18,400 Euros let ruing his hard luck. Menezes and 3. Eduardo Menezes (Brazil) Galip Galip put in a strong round, jumping 38.99 secs. 13,800 Euros. clear but were not quite quick enough CSI5* 1.45 m Two Phases: A + A, Both to stop the clock on 38.99s. Phases Against the Clock “The fi rst round [Verdi] jumped 1. Marlon Modolo Zanotelli (Brazil) nice, we had a smooth round and it Extra van Essene. Time: 24.35 secs. was quick enough to win the class to- Brazil’s Marlon Modolo Zanotelli, the winner of the CSI5* 1.45m class. Prize money: 8,250 Euros day. At the moment [Verdi] feels very 2. Harrie Smolders (the Netherlands) good, and very happy. I can use his big paced thriller, Zanotelli fi nished just he’s always fi ghting for me. It’s a fan- Zinius. 24.65 secs. 5,000 Euros stride in a big arena like this so it suits 0.3s ahead of 2017 overall GCT cham- tastic facility here in Doha and all the 3. Henrik von Eckermann (Sweden) him. We put our focus on Saturday for pion Harrie Smolders (the Nether- support we have here from the crowd Cantinero. 24.83 secs. 3,750. the Grand Prix,” said van der Vleuten, lands) on Zinius, with Henrik von is very nice,” the Brazilian added. who got richer by 30,360 Euros on the Eckermann of Sweden taking third on A magnifi cent fi eld of elite riders, TODAY’S SCHEDULE night. Cantinero. including 17 of the world’s top 20 rid- 10:45: National Class 1/1.15m Against In the Global Champions Tour “It was fantastic, I’m very happy ers, lined up for the opening CSI5* the clock (QR10,000) opening event, Brazil’s Marlon Mod- with my horse,” said Zanotelli, who class. Great Britain’s Ben Maher took 13:15: National Class 1.20/1.30m olo Zanotelli registered a sensational took home 30,360 Euros for his eff ort. an early advantage with some deadly Against the clock (QR20,000) round on the 13-year-old Extra Van “I watched Maikel (van der Vleuten, accurate turns on MTF Madame X in a 15:00: CSI5* 1.45m Two Phase Essene to win the CSI5* 1.45m class, who fi nished sixth) and he went fast. time of 27.12s, but the leader board im- (€25,000) which carried a total prize money of My wife said there was one less stride mediately reshuffl ed. 17:30: CSI5* 1.50/1.55m Global 92,000 Euros. to the last and luckily it worked for me. Sweden’s Peder Frericson and H&M Champions League Round 1 (€92,000 QFA Vice President Saoud al-Mohannadi (R) and Roman Berbr, Second In what turned out to be a fast- He’s a fantastic horse, very kind and Zaloubet rocketed home in 26.48s be- individual class winner) Vice-President of the FACR, sealing the co-operation agreement yesterday. Gulf Times 2 Friday, November 10, 2017 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT Russia vows World Cup crackdown on scalpers AFP law being drafted by the government showcase itself as a modern power that Moscow slaps fi nes on individuals that could has shed corruption and other shadowy reach 25 times the price of the ticket’s practices of its post-Soviet past. face value. The 11 host cities stretching from Ka- ussian Prime Minister Dmitry Scalpers who get caught reselling liningrad near the European Union to Medvedev vowed yesterday to the most expensive ones for the fi - Yekaterinburg in the Urals have under- crack down harshly on people nal at Moscow’s refurbished Luzhniki gone wholesale renovations aimed at who intended to profi t from Stadium would thus have to cough up burnishing Russia’s image as a welcom- resellingR their tickets to the 2018 World $28,000 – nearly four times the average ing country with a friendly face. Cup. annual salary reported by Russia’s sta- Russia did the same to the Black Sea The price of admission for the June tistics agency in July. port city of Sochi when the summer re- 14-July 15 event ranges from 1,200 rou- Companies that profi t from the illicit sort was restyled to host the February bles ($22, 19 euros) for the nosebleed trade could be put out of business for 2014 Winter Olympic Games. seats at the opening matches to 66,000 90 days and forced to pay even greater But any goodwill Russia could then roubles for the best ones available for fi nancial penalties. muster dissipated after it annexed the grand fi nale. The legislation further slashes the Ukraine’s Crimea peninsula the subse- Medvedev told a government meet- amount of time courts have to hear the quent month. ing that Russia had assured the world disputed cases to 10 days. Its relations with the West have re- football governing body FIFA it would The government’s legislation must be mained particularly strained ever since. stop scalpers in their tracks by impos- submitted to the lower house of parlia- But the Russian squad has been keen ing prohibitive penalties at the marquee ment – a rubber-stamp body controlled to repair international relations with event. by the Kremlin – by December 18. the help of some old-fashioned football “This includes fi nes for those who It then has to be approved by an diplomacy. engage in (price) speculation,” Russian equally pliant upper chamber before It will open Luzhniki Stadium after a news agencies quoted Medvedev as being signed into law by Russian Presi- four-year renovation on Saturday when saying. dent Vladimir Putin. it hosts Argentina and its Barcelona su- “It will not matter whether these are perstar Lionel Messi. ordinary citizens or offi cials, individual Football diplomacy Russia will then entertain Spain at entrepreneurs or organisations.” Russia is keen to use the most a brand new arena built in the cultural Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev vows to crack down harshly on people who intended to profit from reselling their The Kommersant newspaper said a watched television event in the world to capital Saint Petersburg on Tuesday. tickets to the 2018 World Cup. (AFP)

FRIENDLY FOCUS Cannavaro returns to Chinese champions Germany to test WC Guangzhou

AFP ing local players. “I am sure Shanghai that players from Evergrande can not only serve Evergrande, but what we hope even more talian World Cup win- is that they can serve the na- options at Wembley ner Fabio Cannavaro was tional team,” named manager of Chi- said Cannavaro, cautioning ‘Wembley obviously has a special aura, we know that the stadium will be full, with nese Super League cham- however that would take time. Ipions Guangzhou Evergrande Cannavaro, who resigned 90,000 people, and we are looking forward to the game’ yesterday, returning to the as Tianjin boss just days after club that cut him loose in 2015. steering them into the Cham- The 44-year-old former pions League for the fi rst time Juventus and Real Madrid in their history, was in charge defender, who quit Tianjin at Evergrande for seven Quanjian earlier this week, months to June 2015. signed a fi ve-year contract But he was replaced by and replaces Brazilian coach World Cup-winning coach Luiz Felipe Scolari at China’s Scolari after what Canna- perennial league winners. varo described at the time Cannavaro will be expected as a “consensual resolution” to continue Guangzhou Ev- of his contract. Cannavaro’s ergrande’s domination of the abrupt departure in 2015 dis- Chinese Super League (CSL) appointed many Evergrande – on Saturday they lifted a sev- supporters and he left with enth consecutive league title – the team top of the league and and inspire them to a third AFC in the quarter-fi nals of the Champions League crown. Champions League. Speaking at the Italian’s Hundreds of fans had unveiling, club boss Xu Jiayin, mobbed him at the airport China’s richest man, said as he departed the southern Cannavaro will also be tasked Chinese city. with fi elding a side of only The Italian former inter- Chinese players by 2020. national defender, who cap- In the summer they lost tained his country to World Brazilian international mid- Cup glory in 2006, winning fi elder Paulinho to Barcelona, FIFA World Player of the Year, but their overseas contingent next managed for a brief time still includes three other Bra- in Saudi Arabia before return- zilians and Colombian striker ing to China with ambitious Jackson Martinez. “I am fl at- Tianjin. tered and happy to come back He led them to promotion here, I said that I will come from China’s second-tier back one day,” Cannavarosaid. League One and then to third “I am excited by Ever- in the CSL – and a Champions grande’s plan in the next few League play-off berth – by years and happy to work to- beating Evergrande 2-1 away gether with the club.” on the fi nal day of the season Cannavaro said that he was on Saturday. relishing building a team of The Tianjin players tossed homegrown stars, part of a Cannavaro up in the air af- bigger push by the Chinese terwards in celebration, but government to improve the speculation was already swirl- Germany coach Joachim Low during the press conference in Berlin yesterday. (Reuters) fortunes of the underachiev- ing that he was poised to leave ing national side by promot- to go back to Guangzhou. AFP string of withdrawals, world champions Club vs country talk ‘nonsense’, says Southgate Berlin Germany are missing injured stars Tho- mas Mueller, Manuel Neuer and Jerome England manager Gareth Southgate has Cahill sat out training with an unspecified Boating. Real Madrid midfi elder Kroos has dismissed talk of a club-versus-country injury. oachim Loew says he will look at shaken off a gastrointestinal problem and row following Tottenham Hotspur striker Southgate is expected to award a full de- his World Cup options by “experi- took a light part in training in Berlin yes- Harry Kane’s withdrawal from his squad. but to Ruben Loftus-Cheek, the uncapped menting” with his line-up at Wem- terday before the Germans fl ew to Kane, the Premier League’s joint-top 21-year-old Chelsea midfielder who is bley today when Germany take on London. scorer, pulled out of England’s squad to currently on loan at Crystal Palace. He has EnglandJ in a friendly. “Toni can possibly be held back if nec- face Germany and Brazil in friendlies after also called up Everton defender Michael With seven months to go before the essary,” said Loew. “He plays every three sustaining a knock in Spurs’ 1-0 win over Keane, uncapped Burnley midfielder Jack World Cup kicks-off in Russia, Loew wants days at the highest level and if he does not Crystal Palace last weekend. Cork and West Bromwich Albion’s Jake to ensure he has cover for each position. He feel ok, it is quite conceivable that I let him Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino Livermore as cover. England’s last game will use the match against England and next rest.” subsequently said he expected Kane to against Germany, a 1-0 friendly defeat Tuesday’s home friendly against France to Loew said he will start uncapped RB be fit to face Arsenal on November 18, in Dortmund in March, was marred by a This file photo taken on November 4, 2017 shows players of give those on the fringes of the squad their Leipzig left-back Marcel Halstenberg, 26, but Southgate dismissed suggestions the small number of England fans who booed Tianjin Quanjian throwing up their head coach Fabio Cannavaro chance. “Wembley obviously has a special at Wembley, where Germany have won all striker had put his club before his country. the German anthem and sang songs as they celebrate their victory against Guangzhou Evergrande aura, we know that the stadium will be full, of their last six games against old rivals “I knew Harry Kane was in trouble about World War II. during the Chinese Super League (CSL) in Guangzhou. (AFP) with 90,000 people, and we are looking England. Loew has yet to decide whether (against Palace) because he stayed down. England’s Football Association subse- forward to the game,” said Loew. “On one Juventus midfi elder Sami Khedira or Bay- Harry Kane doesn’t stay down,” Southgate quently handed out its first life bans to hand, we want to have a good match, and ern Munich defender Mats Hummels will told a press conference at England’s St two supporters who were found to have Man City announce documentary series the result obviously matters. captain the team. Germany sailed through George’s Park training base in Burton-on- performed Nazi gestures. “But on the other, I want to experiment their qualifying campaign for Russia 2018 Trent. Southgate urged England’s supporters to A behind-the-scenes documentary on Manchester City’s 2017-18 against a big team, because during quali- with a perfect record of ten wins. “Both him and Harry Winks were scanned. be on their best behaviour and praised campaign is to be screened by Amazon, the Premier League fying we did not always have opponents of Loew will have to decide which of his Our medical department reviewed both Germany’s decision to join England in leaders announced yesterday. The multi-episode series will the same quality. in-form strikers to start against England. scans and no way they were available for wearing poppy armbands to coincide with launch on Amazon Prime Video in more than 200 countries and “We are still in the testing phase and I do Hoff enheim hot-shot Sandro Wagner, our two games. Spurs might risk them for Britain’s Armistice Day commemorations. territories next year as part of what is reported to be a lucrative not want to see only the players who have 29, has scored fi ve goals in as many games the game with Arsenal, but it’s a diff erent “I think it was unacceptable, completely deal. Pep Guardiola’s high-scoring City are strong favourites to played a lot with us lately, but also a few for Germany and scored twice in the Bun- matter. unacceptable,” Southgate said of the win the Premier League title, having surged eight points clear others. “Some players are already certain desliga on Sunday. Leipzig’s Timo Werner “I’m hearing this talk of club v country scenes in Dortmund. at the top of the table, and have also reached the Champions to be in the (World Cup) squad, if they are has been Loew’s fi rst-choice and has net- and it’s a nonsense. The players are “We have a huge percentage of fans who League last 16. “We are delighted to begin this strategic relation- not injured, (Mats) Hummels, (Toni) Kroos ted six goals in eight matches. He also injured and cannot play.” follow us brilliantly. We experienced that ship with Amazon, one of the world’s leading companies,” said and others, those who are our backbone of scored for his club in Germany’s top fl ight Southgate’s preparations for today’s in Lithuania (in England’s last World Cup City chief executive Ferran Soriano in a press release. “Amazon the team and our leaders. “But the goal is at the weekend. friendly against Germany at Wembley qualifying match) when we went over to Prime Video is the perfect home for a ground-breaking project to be able to replace them one-for-one. In Mario Goetze is back in the Germa- have been disrupted by a raft of with- the supporters at the end of the game. that will off er a unique and authentic inside view into Manches- a tournament, the best option is to double ny squad after seven months out with a drawals. In addition to Kane and Winks, “Things that were shouted that night were ter City’s season like never before. This is an extremely exciting all the positions.” metabolic disorder. Likewise, Manchester Dele Alli, Raheem Sterling, Jordan Hend- totally unacceptable. We’ve moved on time for Manchester City and through Amazon’s world-class City midfi elder Ilkay Gundogan is set to erson and Fabian Delph have also pulled from those times. They don’t represent us service, we will be able to share it with football fans all over the Halstenberg debut play for Germany for the fi rst time since out of the squad, while defender Gary as a team, the people who do that.” world.” While England have been blighted by a tearing knee ligaments last December. Gulf Times Friday, November 10, 2017 3 FOOTBALL

WORLD CUP PLAYOFF SPOTLIGHT Stars on show for Brazil in Japan test Italy face nightmare “I told my players, ‘We’re AFP Lille, France playing at mine, we have to win or it will be impossible for me to keep living here,’” he aris Saint-Germain’s joked. Brazilian stars, in- cluding the world’s Capable of an upset? most expensive play- But the fi rebrand Franco- against Sweden Per, Neymar, face Japan in Lille Bosnian, who in August re- today as both nations ramp up vealed he had considered ‘I don’t even consider the idea of not qualifying. We’ll go to Russia for sure’ their preparations for the 2018 stepping down for “personal World Cup. reasons” before Japanese of- Brazil were the fi rst team – fi cials insisted that he con- aside from hosts Russia – to tinue, vowed his side wouldn’t clinch their place at next year’s be cowed by the challenge of fi nals after romping through playing the fi ve-time world South American qualifying, champions. while Japan will make a sixth “We’re getting ready for an straight appearance at the glo- important test against one of bal showpiece. the best teams in the world,” “It’s an important prepara- said Halilhodzic. tion match for the World Cup, “We’re going to try and play even if it is just a friendly,” with lots of courage and deter- Brazil coach Tite told a press mination and we hope to pose conference yesterday. them problems. It’s a good test “It’s important the players to see what level Japan are cur- understand from this point rently at. onwards that every match “We haven’t come just to counts in preparation for the defend, that would be a big World Cup. It’s as if it was the mistake. Every time we have tournament already.” the ball we have to play and try With the exception of to push them about. I’d love to Liverpool forward Philippe pull off a surprise, but are we Coutinho, who is doubtful capable? We’ll see.” with an adductor problem, Halilhodzic steered Ivory Brazil will fi eld the majority Coast to the 2010 World Cup of their fi rst-choice side at the but was sacked three months Stade Pierre-Mauroy. before the tournament started. Neymar sat out PSG’s 5-0 He then guided an impres- rout of Angers last weekend sive Algeria team to the 2014 with a minor thigh problem, fi nals in Brazil where they but the 25-year-old took full reached the last 16 only to lose part in Brazil’s three training to eventual champions Ger- sessions in Paris this week and many, 2-1, after extra time. will start against Japan, Tite His two-and-a-half years in confi rmed. charge of Japan have often He will be joined in the line- been turbulent, marked by up by club team-mate Thiago run-ins with players and Japa- Silva, although Marquinhos nese FA offi cials that have po- and Dani Alves must both set- larised opinion about his suit- tle for a place on the bench ability for the job. with Monaco’s Jemerson and But Halilhodzic has insisted Danilo of Manchester City both he is going nowhere as Japan handed a chance to stake their look to turn the page on a dis- claims for a World Cup place. appointing showing at the last For Japan boss Vahid Halil- World Cup when they crashed hodzic, Friday’s fi xture is of out at the group stage. Sweden coach Janne Andersson and Andreas Granqvist during the press conference yesterday. (Reuters) particular signifi cance for the “Brazil are the big favourites 65-year-old who starred in here,” Halilhodzic said on Fri- AFP tied with Germany for most ap- all levels over 41 years. “They (Sweden) create a sense Celtic defender Mikael Lustig France during his playing days day’s encounter. “Right now Milan pearances by a European nation, The 69-year-old has often of fear because they always do who is serving a one-match sus- with Nantes in the 1980s. they’re the best team in the 18. But Germany have already however appeared overwhelmed the same thing but they do it pension, and was pleased with “It’s a great pleasure. I don’t world but we’ll try. made sure of a 19th berth. by the task, preferring to stick well,” said Buff on, 39, who ironi- the past days training sessions. live very far from here,” said “We’ll be able to glean in- or football giants Italy Italy are also the only one of to his 4-2-4 tactical system to cally made his Italy debut during Sweden will aim to fi nd “good Halilhodzic, who oversaw formation from this match the next few days could the eight previous winners not the detriment of the creativity their last World Cup play-off 20 variation” and a “lot of move- Lille’s return to the top fl ight and the one against Belgium be a nightmare as they yet sure of their place in this of stars such as Marco Verratti, years ago against Russia. ment” as a means of creating in 2000 during a four-year (on Tuesday), two of the best face a double-headed World Cup. Lorenzo Insigne, Ciro Immobile Buff on, then 19, came on as goal chances, Andersson said. spell in charge. sides in the world.” playoffF against Sweden to avoid “Italy is Italy and has a partic- and Andrea Belotti. a substitute under the snow in He noted that Sweden scored the humiliation of missing the ular standing in world football. Confi dence took a knock dur- Moscow after Gianluca Pagliuca 26 goals during the qualifi ca- World Cup for the fi rst time in And it’s inevitable that they are ing a tough qualifying campaign was injured. Italy were held 1-1 tions, producing them from a Coleman hints he could stay on as Wales manager 60 years. favourite,” said former Italy in- during which they lost 3-0 to but qualifi ed in the return leg. number of diff erent combina- “A World Cup without Italy ternational and ex-Manchester Spain, and also struggled past Two decades on Buff on -now tions, including set-pieces, Chris Coleman indicated yesterday that he could stay on as isn’t a World Cup” has become City coach Roberto Mancini. Israel (1-0) and Albania (1-0) the Italy captain and record shots from long range and indi- Wales manager, saying he doesn’t see upcoming friendlies the catchphrase of many Italians “It’s sure at 100 percent that while labouring to a dismal 1-1 holder of 173 caps - will be hop- vidual eff orts. against France and Panama as “the end of anything”. – four-time world champions we’ll be at the World Cup. And draw at home to Macedonia. ing his international career does Sweden captain Andreas Wales failed to qualify for next year’s World Cup after a 1-0 – who are perplexed at how the historically when we struggle to not end where it began with a Granqvist, 32, compared the two home loss to the Republic of Ireland last month, leading to once-mighty Azzurri have fallen qualify then we usually make a Buff on record playoff . “We mustn’t feel the play-off matches to “two finals.” speculation that former Fulham coach Coleman would resign so low. The last time Italy missed big tournament.” Italy travel to Sweden for the pressure because it won’t help “It’s key to score goals at home despite taking the team to the Euro 2016 semi-finals. the World Cup was the 1958 edi- Italy last won the World Cup fi rst leg of their playoff today in us,” insisted Buff on. “The im- and not to allow any,” said the “I don’t look at these two games as the end of anything, we will tion which was hosted in Sweden. in 2006 under Marcello Lippi Stockholm with the return leg in portant thing is the result is the central defender, who has 67 ap- talk about my future after, it’s not the time now,” he told a press “I don’t even consider the idea with the hope that with their front of a sell-out crowd in Mi- same as in 1997.” pearances for Sweden. conference ahead of Friday’s game at the Stade de France. of not qualifying. We’ll go to experience, talent and skill they lan’s San Siro on Monday. Meanwhile Sweden coach He said the Sweden squad was “I have to prepare for this meeting, to make sure that we’ll be Russia for sure,” insisted coach could continue to prevail in years The four-time winners have Janne Andersson said his team “positive after a good qualifi ca- competitive.” Gian Piero Ventura, who took to come. But despite a run to the missed just two World Cup fi - felt “strong”. tion run, but Italy will be a tough Wales fell short in their bid to reach a first World Cup since over from Antonio Conte after Euro 2012 fi nal they have failed nals – the fi rst in 1930 when they “The pressure is maybe on test...it’s a great team.” 1958, missing out on a play-off spot to Ireland in the absence the 2016 European Champion- to deliver consistency on the big chose not to compete and in 1958 the Italian team,” Anderssson Granqvist and several other of injured talisman Gareth Bale. “It’s very diff icult of course... ship. stage, although former Juventus when they did not qualify. told reporters, adding that it was key players – like forward duo We’re not qualified, but we only lost one match in 10 qualifying “We’re Italy and missing out boss Conte led them to the quar- But veteran goalkeeper Gian- “more important” how his side Ola Toivonen and Marcus Berg games,” Coleman added. “There was strong expectation from on the World Cup is not an op- ter-fi nals of Euro 2016 with wins luigi Buff on – bidding to reach a played. “We feel optimistic, we and midfi elder Sebastian Lars- the whole nation. We’re still hurting, that will hurt last for a long tion,” added experienced centre- over Spain and Belgium. record sixth World Cup fi nals in feel that we are a good team and son – were aware that this could time, but we need to regain our concentration and momentum.” back Leonardo Bonucci. After Conte’s departure for Russia – and Italy’s defence need at home here,” he said at the na- be their last chance to play at a Coleman will again have to make do without Real Madrid for- The playoff puts Italy’s proud Chelsea the federation turned to beware of Sweden, the top tional arena near Stockholm, the World Cup. Sweden missed out ward Bale in Paris, while Crystal Palace winger Jonny Williams record of World Cup participa- to veteran journeyman Ventura, scorers among the eight playoff capital. Andersson said he could on the 2010 and 2014 editions of has also withdrawn with injury. tion in danger. The Azzurri are who had coached clubs in Italy at teams, with 26 goals in 10 games. utilize all his players – except the World Cup.

FOCUS 2018 FIFA World Cup ball unveiled Australia eye victory in Honduras test, says Mooy AFP placed fi nisher in the fi nal round San Pedro Sula, Honduras of CONCACAF qualifying. Mooy said the experience of prevailing over Syria in a tense ustralia star Aaron two-leg battle would stand the Mooy says the Soc- Australians in good stead as they ceroos will go all out for prepare to face Honduras, who victory today as they are eyeing a third consecutive aimA to edge closer to the World World Cup after appearances in Cup in the opening leg of their 2010 and 2014. playoff clash with Honduras. “It gives us belief that we over- Mooy will be one of the linch- came that challenge,” Mooy told pins of the Australian eff ort at Football Federation Australia San Pedro Sula’s intimidating Aaron Mooy (left), Bailey Wright (2nd left) and Ryan McGowan (right) when asked about the Syria win. 40,000-capacity Estadio Ol- during a training session in San Pedro Sula. (AFP) “We’ve got another big chal- impico Metropolitano, where lenge coming up and I’m sure it Ange Postecoglou’s men will Mooy, 27, said Australia coach Huddersfi eld. “It doesn’t matter will be another tough game. But hope to take a stride towards a Postecoglou will eschew caution if it’s away or home - that’s what we’ve overcome these challenges fourth consecutive World Cup. as the Socceroos aim to carve out a we will do. And hopefully that and the next one will be no dif- Australia has had an unhappy decisive advantage to take back to will give us a good result to take ferent,” Mooy added. record in World Cup playoff s, Sydney for next week’s second leg. back to Sydney,” Mooy added. The venue the game is in a losing fi ve deciders between “The way the boss wants us to Australia are already battle- Honduran city notorious for vi- 1966 and 2002 in a string of play is to go all out and try and hardened having come through olence linked to the drug trade. agonising near-misses that saw win the game,” said Mooy, who a demanding play-off against Mooy however said the Austral- Lukas Podolski, Kaka, Alessandro Del Piero along with other participants play with the off icial the Socceroos become eternal is brimming with confi dence af- Asian rivals Syria to determine ian squad had received a warm match ball for the 2018 World Cup football tournament, named “Telstar 18”, during its unveiling nearly-men. ter a successful start to the Eng- which team would advance welcome since arriving in Hon- ceremony in Moscow yesterday. (AFP) However despite that record, lish Premier League season with to face Honduras, the fourth- duras. Gulf Times 4 Friday, November 10, 2017 CRICKET

ENGLAND’S TOUR OF AUSTRALIA SPOTLIGHT beIN to broadcast Ball injured as Ashes aft er rights deal for CA content

By Sports Reporter cluding over eight million Indians, Doha beIN Media Group is expanding its of- fer to capitalise on the rapidly growing England take market for cricket across the Middle ricket is set to reach its biggest East and North Africa. ever audience in the Middle beIN will broadcast cricket in more East and North Africa (Mena) than 24 countries, including the United following a deal signed yes- Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, terdayC by Cricket Australia and broad- Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Lebanon, Iran, caster beIN Media Group. This is the Iraq, Egypt and Morocco. fi rst time cricket will be showcased on “It is important that we deliver on lead in tour game beIN Sports and signals the entry of our promise to broadcast the very best beIN Media Group into broadcasting global sports and events, and this is cricket for the fi rst time. yet another signifi cant milestone on Setback comes after fellow pacer Finn too was ruled out due to knee injury The deal is the biggest ever cricket this journey. The audience for cricket board rights deal for the region and will in the Middle East and North Africa is bring the best of Australian and inter- growing at an unprecedented pace, and national cricket to a growing Mena au- viewers are rightly demanding better, dience over the next six years. more comprehensive, in-depth cov- beIN has won the right to show the erage. We are delighted that Cricket upcoming Ashes, with coverage start- Australia has chosen to partner with ing on November 23. beIN will screen beIN and we will guarantee cricket fans premium cricket clashes including across the region access to high quality South Africa’s 2018 tour of Australia, cricket coverage,” beIN Media Group India’s 2018-19 tour of Australia, and deputy CEO Yousef al-Obaidly said. both the KFC Big Bash League and Cricket Australia CEO James Suth- Rebel Women’s Big Bash League, the erland said, “We are delighted to wel- country’s domestic T20 leagues. come beIN to the cricket family and All games will be available in HD via know their viewers will enjoy the range subscription channels and online and of quality cricket content on off er in with the recent launch of the beIN’s 4K Australia each season. The Ashes is the channel, cricket fans in Mena can look perfect start for their partnership with forward to watching selected games us, and with the impending introduc- from their favourite sport in Ultra HD tion of a Test championship and a new over the coming years. ODI league, beIN cricket fans will only Driven by an increase in the number benefi t from international cricket’s of cricket supporting expatriates, in- new structure and greater context.”

CHANGE Bangladesh cricket coach Hathurusingha resigns: offi cial

AFP Under Hathurusingha, Dhaka perennial minnows Bangla- desh have made rapid strides in world cricket, reaching the he head coach of semi-fi nals of the Champions England’s paceman Jake Ball reacts in pain as he falls on the ground while bowling against Cricket Australia XI in Adelaide yesterday. (AFP) Bangladesh’s nation- Trophy tournament in Eng- al cricket team has land this year. AFP peared to lose his footing in his deliv- remains at home awaiting the out- struck half-centuries for CA XI. resigned, the sport’s Since he replaced Austral- ery stride and turned his right ankle come of a police investigation into his Former Test and one-day interna- Tboard said yesterday, amid ian Shane Jurgensen in 2014, Adelaide, Australia as he tried to bowl the fi fth ball of his involvement in a brawl outside a Bris- tional player Paine, who has failed to reports of his taking charge of Bangladesh have also reached fourth over. tol nightclub on September 25. feature in Tasmania’s Sheffi eld Shield the Sri Lankan team. the quarter-fi nal of the World ake Ball added to England’s Ball collapsed on the pitch and was All-rounder Moeen Ali is also missing side this season because of Test in- Chandika Hathurus- Cup in 2015 and won one-day pace bowling woes with an an- surrounded by concerned team-mates the four-day match with a side injury. cumbent wicketkeeper Matthew ingha, who is Sri Lankan, tendered his international series against Pakistan, kle injury as the tourists took a as medics hurried onto the fi eld. England had a better day against the Wade’s move to the state, combined resignation in a letter during Bangla- India and South Africa in the same year. lead over a Cricket Australia XI He left the ground unaided and was CA XI, with leg-spinner Mason Crane with Matt Short (45) to rescue his side desh’s disastrous tour of South Africa They also won a Test match against inJ Adelaide yesterday. later diagnosed with a sprained ankle, claiming three for 78 and pacemen from a precarious 57 for fi ve. last month, Bangladesh Cricket Board a visiting England side in 2016 before The CA XI declared their fi rst in- sitting out the remainder of the day’s James Anderson and Chris Woakes England extended their innings lead President Nazmul Hasan told report- beating Sri Lanka and Australia in Tests nings 60 runs adrift to get in fi ve play to have ice treatment. each snaring two wickets. by fi ve without loss to the close with ers. this year. overs at the tourists under the lights Ball’s setback comes after fellow Crane bowled Will Pucovski with a Cook, who has been out cheaply in “As far as I remember, he submitted a Hathurusingha, however, came un- at Adelaide Oval, but England reached pace bowler Steven Finn was ruled out gem and recovered from some loose both his innings on tour so far, surviv- letter to me in early October. He didn’t der criticism during Bangladesh’s re- stumps on the second day of the four- of the tour earlier this week due to a overs to take two late wickets in an ing a couple of edgy moments. give any specifi c reasons. He only said cent tour of South Africa, where the day game at fi ve without loss. Mark knee injury, with Tom Curran sched- over before the home side cheekily The day-night match is England’s he wasn’t interested anymore,” Hasan team failed to register a single win. Stoneman was not out on four with uled to join the tourists on Friday. declared on 233 for nine in reply to the second of three tour games before the told reporters in Dhaka. His name was fi rst discussed as a po- under pressure Alastair Cook on one. The England team is already with- tourists’ 293. fi rst Test against Australia in Brisbane “He is a professional coach. We will tential Sri Lanka coach in June after the Nottinghamshire quick Ball ap- out star all-rounder Ben Stokes, who Tim Paine and Simon Milenko starts on November 23. deal it professionally. We won’t force resignation of South African Graham him but will ask him about the reason,” Ford. he said. Ford stepped down in late June, half- Sri Lankan newspaper Ceylon Today way through a 45-month contract and Broad sees Warner as danger man reported yesterday that Hathurusingha just two weeks after the team’s early was on the verge of signing up with the exit from the Champions Trophy. England paceman Stuart Broad got to try bowl a lot of balls at him “He’s someone that drives teams “You know that if you get it wrong to Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) as the national The team have had an interim coach has pinpointed David Warner as with the new ball, because it’s your forward,” Broad said of Warner. him he can hurt you, but it’s also ex- team’s head coach. since Ford stepped down. Australia’s danger man in the Ashes best chance of getting him out,” “He’s one of those blokes who is not tremely exciting if you get him out.” Quoting sources, the newspaper said Hathurusingha played 26 Tests and series, while admitting a begrudging he told the Sydney Morning Herald that enjoyable to play against, but if Broad also sees prolific Australia the SLC had reached an agreement 35 ODIs for Sri Lanka before becom- respect for his aggressive mentality. yesterday. he’s in your team you love him. captain Steve Smith, the top batsman with Hathurusingha regarding his re- ing Sri Lanka’s assistant coach under The pugnacious opener fired up the “(But) you have to have a plan B, and “You have characters like that in most in the world, as another player who muneration package. Trevor Bayliss before being sacked. tourists last month by comparing with someone like Warner you have successful sports teams, don’t you? needs to be toppled early, admitting Hathurusingha is currently contracted He then moved to Australia and playing against England to “war” and to go to plan B quicker than a lot of “Someone who if he’s in the field, will he was tough to bowl at. with the BCB until World Cup 2019 and is landed a job as a coach of New South said he planned to take “some sort of other batters.” stay in the battle, looking someone in “He’s got huge scoring areas from widely believed to be one of the highest- Wales before taking over the head hatred” into the Tests, which start in While captain Joe Root said before the eye all the time, keep his bowlers straight, so I think we have to look for paid cricket coaches in the world. coach position of Bangladesh. Brisbane on November 23. leaving England that Warner’s moving... someone who can take the his outside edge up until day three,” Broad said Warner, known for his comparison to war was “extreme”, game away from you quickly.” he said. fiery nature on the field, was a peren- veteran Broad acknowledged teams He said these were the type of play- “And then if the pitches start going nial danger. needed characters like him to make ers he likes to face, “the sort of guys slightly up and down or crack like the Sharjeel Khan’s appeal against “I think someone like Warner you’ve them great. who spur you on”. Gabba can do... you can bring lbw in.” spot-fi xing ban rejected

An appeal by fast-rising Pakistan At the time of the ban, Sharjeel BOTTOMLINE opener Sharjeel Khan against a had played one Test, 25 one-day five-year ban over spot-fixing was internationals and 15 Twenty20s for rejected this week with his lawyer Pakistan. He was also contracted by yesterday vowing to challenge the English county Leicestershire and India tour big challenge for us: Chandimal decision in a higher court. was in line for getting more contracts Sharjeel, 28, was banned for five in Twenty20 leagues around the years, two-and-a-half of them world. IANS Chandimal said at the Sri Lankans’ suspended, in August following an Sharjeel was charged with deliber- Kolkata arrival media conference, a day after investigation by a three-member ately playing two dot balls — deliver- stepping on to Indian soil. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) tribunal. ies off which no run is scored — in The islanders had put up a much The scandal surfaced during the his team Islamabad United’s opening cknowledging that the India improved showing against Pakistan, second edition of the Pakistan Super match against Peshawar Zalmi in tour was a big challenge for winning the Test series 2-0 in the League in February this year. The Dubai. his new-look side, Sri Lanka United Arab Emirates (UAE). league was held in the United Arab Spot-fixing involves determining the skipper Dinesh Chandimal “We are looking forward to the India Emirates with the final staged in outcome of a specific part of a match yesterdayA said the boys were confi dent challenge. We have our plans, and we Lahore. rather than the overall result, and after the good show against Pakistan hope to execute them to beat India,” One-man adjudicator Justice is therefore harder to detect than and hope to execute their plans to put the 27-year-old said. Faqir Khokhar upheld the ban late match-fixing. it across to their strong opponents. The Sri Lanka captain is on his fi rst Wednesday and also rejected the His fellow opener Khalid Latif was India had whitewashed Sri Lanka Test tour to India. The neighbours are PCB’s appeal to increase the punish- banned for five years and fined one 3-0 in Tests, followed by a clean sweep slated to play three Tests, three ODIs ment, which can range from five mn rupees (10,000 dollars) for or- in One-Day Internationals (ODI) and the same number of T20Is over years to a life ban according to the chestrating the deal with a bookie. and the lone Twenty20 International the next one and a half months. anti-corruption code. Paceman Mohamed Irfan and spin- (T20I) in Sri Lanka earlier this year, Sri Lanka will begin the tour with a “The decision is disappointing and ner Mohamed Nawaz were banned but Chandimal said his team was not three-day practice game against Board we will definitely go to the high court for one year and two months respec- looking at the coming engagements as President’s XI at the JU 2nd campus after knowing on what grounds tively over not reporting fixing off ers. a revenge clash. ground here tomorrow ahead of the our appeal was rejected,” Sharjeel’s Two other players — Shahzaib Hasan “It’s not a revenge. It’s rather a fi rst Test at the Eden Gardens from lawyer Shaigan Ijaz told AFP. and Nasir Jamshed — are also under big challenge for us. India is now the November 16. “The PCB has not been able to prove investigation by the tribunal. number one team in the world. But Incidentally, this will be Sri Lanka’s the spot-fixing and that has halted a The latest hearing in that case was we come to India after our successes fi rst ever Test match at the hallowed promising career.” due to wrap up later yesterday. against Pakistan. We are confi dent,” venue. Gulf Times Friday, November 10, 2017 5 SPORT

NBA Boston Celtics roll past Lakers for 10th straight victory Orlando Magic halt a two-game losing streak with a 112-99 win over the New York Knicks

AFP his father LaVar Ball who said publicly that the Los Angeles younger Ball wouldn’t play for the Celtics. Ball’s shooting woes continued on Wednes- day as he fi nished with just nine points on four- he injury-riddled Boston Celtics won of-15 shooting from the fi eld in 39 minutes of their 10th straight game by cruising to a playing time. “It’s just in my head, to be honest,” 107-96 win on Wednesday over the Los said Ball. “I know I can shoot the ball.” Angeles Lakers in a matchup between Ball is also dealing with the recent arrest of his Ttwo of the NBA’s most storied franchises. younger brother LiAngelo Ball in China on sus- Australia’s Aron Baynes scored a career high picion of shoplifting. Ball doesn’t think the case 21 points during the game which saw the Celt- will be a distraction for him. ics compile a 21 point fi rst-half lead before the “I mean, it’s still my little brother. But I got Lakers closed the gap in the third. But Los Ange- to come out here and play,” he said. The Lakers les allowed the Celtics to pull away again in the other point guard is Jordan Clarkson who came fourth when it mattered most. off the bench to tie for a team high 18 points in The 30-year-old Baynes, who was born in just 27 minutes of action. New Zealand but grew up in Cairns, Australia, Elsewhere, Nikola Vucevic scored 24 points also grabbed eight rebounds and had three as- and Evan Fournier had 23 to help the Orlando sists in front of a crowd of 18,600 at the Boston Magic halt a two-game losing streak with a Garden. “We have such great creators on this 112-99 win over the New York Knicks, who team,” said Baynes, a member of the Australian were without injured star Kristaps Porzingis. national team. Porzingis sat out with a left ankle sprain and a “I just found myself in the right position. I bruised right elbow. He is averaging 30 points, was just trying to make the right play, and I’m 7.5 rebounds and 2.3 blocks while shooting 51% trying to fi nish as best I could. It’s a compliment from the fi eld. to the other guys on the team getting me the ball In Detroit, Tobias Harris had 23 points and in great position.” eight rebounds to help the Detroit Pistons win Boston’s Kyrie Irving overcame a poor shoot- for the sixth time in seven games, downing the ing night to fi nish with 19 points, six rebounds Indiana Pacers 114-97. and fi ve assists. But the banged-up Celtics are Relying on its depth with All-Star forward the hottest team in the NBA for a reason. Kevin Durant unavailable, Golden State War- They are getting contributions from everyone riors put away Minnesota Timberwolves 125- with diff erent players stepping up each game. 101. Minnesota entered with fi ve consecutive On Wednesday it was Baynes’ turn along with wins, but the streak ended with Warriors guards Marcus Morris, who had 18 points, and Terry Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson orchestrat- Rozier who added 14 points and eight rebounds. ing a 44-26 third-quarter blitz. “Until we have only four (players) left, I guess Golden State won its fi fth consecutive game. we’re just going to keep playing,” Boston coach Thompson fi nished with 28 points, and Curry Brad Stevens said. “And then I don’t know what contributed 22 points and eight assists. Antho- you do at four, but keep playing. Most impor- ny Wiggins scored 17 points and Karl-Anthony tantly, and I don’t want to make light, the most Towns had 16 points and 12 rebounds for the important (thing) is those guys get back healthy.” Timberwolves. Brandon Ingram scored 18 points for the Lak- Goran Dragic had 29 points and nine re- ers, who were guilty of 21 turnovers. Wednesday bounds, and Dion Waiters scored fi ve of his 16 also marked the fi rst pro meeting between Celt- points in the fi nal 2:02 to give Miami Heat a win ics rookie and third overall pick Jayson Tatum 126-115 over Phoenix Suns. Hassan Whitehead and Lakers rookie Lonzo Ball. added 23 points and 10 rebounds for the Heat, But the matchup was shortened after Tatum who have won 17 of the last 19 meetings with had to leave the game because of an ankle prob- the Suns, including nine of the last 10 at Talking lem. The Celtics eff ectively passed over Ball at Stick Resort Arena. the draft by trading down from the number one Aron Baynes (left) of the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers' Lonzo Ball vie for the ball during the fourth quarter of the NBA game at TD Garden in Phoenix’s Devin Booker had nine of his game- pick to get Tatum at number three. Boston, Massachusetts, on Wednesday. (AFP) high 30 points in the fourth quarter and cut a The Celtics knew Tatum was going to be avail- 16-point defi cit to 112-106 on a 17-foot jumper able in that position because the Lakers planned return for the second half. by averaging 14.3 points and 6.5 rebounds in with a possible concussion. with 2:53 left. to take Ball at number two. Tatum fi nished with The 19-year old Tatum had been given a more his fi rst 11 games. The Celtics, who are already Point guard Ball was loudly booed during the However, Waiters followed a jumper with a fi ve points and had one rebound and one assist prominent role because of an opening night without Hayward for the season, were also pre-game introductions and jeered every time 3-pointer with 1:33 left to make it 117-106, and in nine minutes during the fi rst half. He didn’t injury to Gordon Hayward. He has responded missing Al Horford on Wednesday. He is out he touched the ball. Celtics fans are still upset at the Heat locked down the game.

BASEBALL NHL Green Bay sends veteran Red Sox catching prospect Vesey, Lundqvist star in Bennett packing Flores, 17, dies of cancer Rangers’ win over Bruins Green Bay, United States: Veteran tight end Martellus Reuters Connor Brown scored as Toronto topped Min- Bennett, who signed a three- New York nesota. Brown added an assist. Jason Zucker year, $21 million contract scored twice for the Wild, and goaltender Devan during the off season, was let Dubnyk made 15 stops. Eric Staal had two as- go by the Green Bay Packers immy Vesey scored twice and Henrik sists in Minnesota’s third consecutive loss. on Wednesday. The Pack- Lundqvist made 31 saves as the New York ers waived the 10-year NFL Rangers held off the Boston Bruins 4-2 in LIGHTNING 5, SHARKS 1 veteran through the league the National Hockey League on Wednes- Steven Stamkos and Nikita Kucherov — the before releasing him and day.J The win was the Rangers’ fi fth in a row, the league’s Nos. 1 and 2 leading scorers — enjoyed then surprisingly listing him longest active streak in the league. three-point nights each and Vladislav Namest- as having failed to disclose a Pavel Buchnevich also scored for New York, nikov scored two goals as Tampa Bay snapped physical condition. and Rick Nash added an empty-net goal. The San Jose’s four-game winning streak. General manager Ted Rangers (8-7-2) have more wins than regulation Stamkos contributed three assists to boost Thompson announced the losses for the fi rst time this season. David Pas- his league-leading point total to 28. Kucherov decision during Wednes- trnak and Patrice Bergeron scored for the Bru- scored his NHL-leading 15th goal and added day’s team practice. The ins, who got 29 saves from Tuukka Rask. two assists as Lightning coach John Cooper team did not provide details earned his 200th win. Jake Dotchin and Slater about the medical condition. MAPLE LEAFS 4, WILD 2 Koekkoek also scored goals and Andrei Vasilev- Bennett posted on his social Frederik Andersen made 35 saves, and Nazem skiy made 32 saves. Joonas Donskoi scored for media account last month Kadri, Patrick Marleau, Connor Carrick and the Sharks. that he was contemplating retirement at the end of this season. “After conversations with Daniel Flores, who grew up in Venezuela, signed with the Red Sox for $3.1 million this summer. my family I’m pretty sure these next eight games will oston Red Sox catching RETIRED PITCHER ROY altitude of about 100 feet (30 be the conclusion of my prospect Daniel Flores HALLADAY’S PLANE FLEW metres) to 5 feet (1.5m). NFL career,” Bennett said on died on Wednesday due LOW BEFORE CRASH National Transportation Instagram. “To everyone who Bto complications from Witnesses said retired baseball Safety Board investigator Noreen has poured themselves and cancer treatment, the team an- star Roy Halladay manoeuvred Price declined to give a full ac- time into my life and career. nounced. The Red Sox signed the his plane at low altitude before count of what witnesses told These next games are for 17-year-old out of Venezuela last he died when it crashed off the investigators, citing the ongoing you. Thank you.” July, giving him a $3.1mn deal coast of central Florida, a federal probe, which she said could take He had just 24 catches for as they envisioned him as their offi cial said on Wednesday. a year or two. 233 yards and no touch- future catcher. Flores had been As tributes poured in for Halladay became a certifi ed downs in this his first season undergoing cancer treatment in Halladay, investigators are pilot in 2013, the year he retired for Green Bay. Bennett was recent weeks, though the team trying to fi nd what caused the from Major League Baseball, and inactive during the Packers’ did not disclose it. “Everyone at crash of Halladay’s ICON A5 had logged 700 hours in fl ight, loss to Detroit. Then he was the Red Sox was shocked to hear single-engine amphibian air- Price said. He took off on Tues- waived Wednesday after- of Daniel’s tragic passing,” Red craft on Tuesday in the Gulf of day from Odessa, Florida, north noon. Bennett made head- Sox president of baseball opera- Mexico, less than a mile off shore of Tampa. lines earlier this season when tions Dave Dombrowski said in a from the city of New Port Richey. He did not send out any he raised his fist and then sat statement. Halladay won a Cy Young distress calls, authorities said, down on the players bench “To see the life of a young man Award as the best pitcher in and two data recorders were during the national anthem. with so much promise cut short both the American and National recovered from the wreckage. “Just a sign of unity,” Bennett is extremely saddening for all Leagues, was named an eight- Halladay began his career with said of the anthem protest, of us. On behalf of the Red Sox time All-Star and amassed 203 the Toronto Blue Jays in 1998 part of a series of similar organisation, I would like to ex- regular-season victories. and was traded to the Philadel- actions by players protesting tend our deepest sympathies and Video from boaters shows phia Phillies in 2009. the treatment of minorities condolences to Daniel’s family.” his plane making a turn as it In 2010, he threw the second by law enforcement. “I am Flores was a 6-foot-1 switch- descended toward the water. no-hitter in MLB post-season socially aware. I understand hitter who was noted for his The footage was posted online history, playing for the Phillies what’s going on, and I don’t strong arm. He had yet to begin by celebrity website TMZ, which in Game 1 of the National League turn a blind eye to it. I am his career in the Red Sox minor reported the boaters said the Division Series against the Jimmy Vesey (right) of New York Rangers celebrates his goal as Tuukka Rask of Boston Bruins part of the conversation.” league system. plane repeatedly went from an Cincinnati Reds. looks on during the first period of the NHL game at Madison Square Garden in New York. (AFP) Gulf Times 6 Friday, November 10, 2017 SPORT

FORMULA ONE SPOTLIGHT Marquez on verge Paradise postponed? of fourth world MotoGP crown

Not for Hamilton AFP last race in Malaysia, gives me a Valencia, Spain positive feeling. Regarding the track, I feel good because I like Valencia. It’s an anti-clockwise Briton has denied allegations of tax avoidance after the release of Paradise Papers pain’s Marc Marquez is circuit, which normally suits me. poised to wrap up a fourth Of course it’s also good to have AFP world MotoGP title on a points advantage to manage. Sao Paulo Sunday, an achievement That said, we won’t think too whichS appeared a long-distance much about any of those things. Lewis Hamilton reportedly got a dream in the fi rst half of the We defi nitely don’t think it will wo weeks on from clinching his £3.3mn ($4.4mn) VAT refund in 2013 season. The 24-year-old Honda be easy, so we won’t go to Valen- fourth drivers’ championship, after his luxury private plane was rider, who was world champion cia with any extra confi dence.” Lewis Hamilton will be the focus imported into the Isle of Man. in the premier class in 2013, 2014 The 31-year-old Dovizioso has of attention for more than one and 2016, watched as Yamaha’s been a sensation in a season in Treason this weekend when he heads Maverick Vinales romped to vic- which his Ducati teammate and Mercedes’ bid to consolidate their tory in three of the fi rst fi ve races. former world champion Jorge title-winning supremacy at the Brazil- He was even down in fourth Lorenzo was expected to be the ian Grand Prix. spot in the standings after old outfi t’s go-to rider. But the Ital- The 32-year-old Briton, who con- rival Valentino Rossi won in the ian has completely overshad- fi rmed his third championship with the Netherlands. But the second half owed the Spaniard with Dovizio- ‘Silver Arrows’ when he fi nished ninth at of the season has been monopo- so even getting the better of the Mexican Grand Prix, has denied al- lised by Marquez and Andrea Lorenzo in Malaysia in Ducati’s legations of tax avoidance following the Dovizioso on a Ducati. only one-two fi nish in 2017. release of the so-called Paradise Papers, Five of Marquez’s six wins in “What Marquez did this sea- but remains engulfed in the controversy. 2017 have come since the Assen son is incredible,” admitted His behaviour, body language and race as Yamaha fell dramatically Dovizioso, wary of Sunday’s form are expected to be scrutinised as off the pace. Dovizioso also has mission impossible which con- closely as if the title race itself were still six wins to his name but Marquez fronts him. For Yamaha, the alive each time he appears in the crowded heads for Spain with a 21-point campaign has tailed off even if Interlagos paddock. Hamilton report- advantage meaning he only has Vinales has the consolation of edly got a £3.3mn ($4.4mn) VAT refund to fi nish in the top 11 on Sunday already being assured third place in 2013 after his luxury private plane was to again be crowned world cham- in the standings. imported into the Isle of Man. pion. “Of course it will be natural Teammate and seven-time Hamilton’s lawyers have said the tax to feel some pressure in Valencia MotoGP champion Rossi, who structure leading to the VAT refund was with so much at stake, but hon- suff ered a double leg fracture entirely legal. A hugely popular fi gure in estly there has been pressure earlier in the season before re- Brazil, Hamilton is unlikely to allow the for the entire second part of the turning to the saddle three weeks furore in his homeland to upset his prepa- season,” said Marquez whose after surgery, is fourth overall rations, even if he has spent much of the attempts to wrap up the title in although Honda’s Dani Ped- intervening week between Latin Ameri- rain-swept Malaysia two weeks rosa can still pip him on a cir- can races partying, relaxing and partying. ago were thwarted by a fourth- cuit where he has traditionally His childhood hero Ayrton Senna’s place fi nish. thrived. Pedrosa has six career sister Vivianne told him Wednesday that “The fact that we’ve been able wins at Valencia — three in Mo- the Senna family will always “be on your to manage some tricky situ- toGP, two in 250cc, and one in side.” For his Mercedes team, it will be ations, as was the case at the the 125cc class. strictly business as usual in Brazil as they take the opportunity to use the fi nal two races of the season as a chance to prepare the defence of their drivers’ and con- structors’ crowns in 2018. The controversy, however, may attract unexpected and unwanted negativity as the team attempts to regain the ascend- ancy and take the initiative. Hamilton made it clear at a news conference in Sao Paulo on Wednesday that he will not al- low the controversy to distract him from his job this weekend. “I’ve come from this great period of time with my family and friends that have two Grands Prix of 2018 — we have two the season, notably with both Sebastian some spectacular action. this huge wave of positivity,” he told re- races that we are determined to win in or- Vettel and Max Verstappen desperate to Verstappen revelled in the challenge porters. “Nothing can really dent that. I der to take that positive momentum into win again. Four-time champion Vettel in the wet last year and gained 10 posi- am focused on the race this weekend — the winter. Every time we race, we race to has seen his title challenge fail despite the tions in a daring drive to fi nish third and and we have two races to go — and that win. That is the mind-set.” clear speed of his Ferrari while Verstap- secure a podium fi nish at the Autodromo doesn’t distract me from my core values This is expected to mean that Mer- pen, twice a winner in his last four out- Jose Carlos Pace where Hamilton gained and what I am here to do.” cedes will test new aerodynamic parts, ings, is keen to build on the momentum of his fi rst title with a passing move for His Mercedes team said they plan to pit-stop equipment and diff erent tech- those successes after signing a new con- McLaren at the fi nal corner in 2008. The be “bolder” and to experiment with new niques. Against this, both Ferrari and Red tract with Red Bull. It may be that they race will be the last one on home soil for parts and ideas. Team chief Toto Woff Bull are likely to launch equally bold bids are racing for the runners-up prizes in the local hero Felipe Massa, before he retires, Honda rider Marc Marquez heads for Spain MotoGP with a 21-point said: “Inside the team, we are looking at for improved performance in what may championships, but that and the compe- this time fi nally, and leaves an empty seat advantage meaning he only has to finish in the top 11 on Sunday to the next two race weekends as the fi rst be one of the most competitive events of tition for other places is sure to create at Williams in 2018. again be crowned world champion.

RUGBY England rest Farrell, Itoje against Argentina; Slade starts

Reuters Captain Dylan Hartley retains the hooker Wales another potential playmaker with Dan Bagshot, England berth ahead of Lions fi rst choice Jamie George. Bigger taking the fl y half role. “It will be inter- England, without a host of players on Lions esting to see how that goes,” said coach Warren duty, won both tests in Argentina in June to Gatland as the team was announced yesterday. ngland coach Eddie Jones has omitted extend their winning run against them to eight Josh Navidi replaces injured Justin Tipuric Owen Farrell and Maro Itoje from his matches. The Pumas have won only one of their at openside fl ank while Gareth Davies replaces squad to face Argentina tomorrow and nine tests this year, and that was against Georgia Rhys Webb, who also did not recover in time for has handed starts to Henry Slade and and since reaching the 2015 Rugby World Cup selection, at scrum half. Navidi and winger Steff SamE Underhill as he manages his resources with semi-fi nals have lost 18 of their 23 games. “As Evans are among choices that indicate Gatland’s a view on the 2019 World Cup. a squad we have been preparing for this game intention to shake up the side as Wales look for- Farrell and Itoje are both rested as part of since our fi rst camp in August and are excited ward to the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Jones’s long-term plan to ease the workload of about playing in front of 82,000 fans at Twick- Alun Wyn Jones captains the side and is one some of his British and Irish Lions and both are enham Stadium on Saturday,” Jones said. of seven players who went on the Lions tour expected to return for next week’s clash against “We know that Argentina are a strong team — of New Zealand in mid-year that return to the Australia. Slade played at outside centre in both Rugby World Cup semi-fi nalists in 2015 — and team, along with Dan Biggar, Jonathan Davies, games on England’s summer tour of Argentina we will have to be smart and play well to beat Taulupe Faletau, Leigh Halfpenny, Ken Owens but moves to 12 tomorrow, while 21-year-old them.” England next play Australia before fi n- and Liam Williams. Underhill gets the chance to stake a claim for ishing their series against Samoa. Wales have three uncapped players — Leon the open-side fl anker berth having also played Brown, Sam Cross and Owen Watkin — on against the Pumas in June for his only cap. PROSPECT WILLIAMS GETS the bench for the fi rst of four tests on succes- Elliot Daly will start on the wing having CENTRE START FOR WALES England’s scrum-half Danny Care (right) takes part in a training session in Bagshot, southwest of sive Saturdays at the Principality Stadium with made a quicker-than-expected recovery from a Future prospect Owen Williams was named at London yesterday, ahead of the autumn rugby union match against Argentina. (AFP) Georgia (Nov. 18), New Zealand (Nov. 25) and knee injury, with Jonny May ruled out through centre as Wales freshened up their team while South Africa (Dec. 2) to follow. “It’s tough start a hamstring injury and Semesa Rokoduguni welcoming back seven Lions tourists to the for the fi rst time after just nine minutes of test The 25-year-old Williams, heralded as a top and we have to make sure we are up and running named among the replacements alongside fl y- line-up for tomorrow’s test against Australia in rugby as blood-bin replacement for Scott Wil- prospect for Welsh rugby, usually plays at fl yhalf to take on a very competitive Australian team,” half Alex Lozowski. Cardiff . Williams plays in the starting line-up liams against Tonga in June. for his English club Gloucester but now off ers added Gatland.

FOCUS World Rugby denies Samoa players are uninsured London: World Rugby has denied claims Malielegaoi had said that the SRU were gation to share gate receipts with visiting All Blacks roll out big guns from the prime minister of Samoa that the insolvent. “It means the Union cannot con- test sides. The RFU will compensate Samoa country’s rugby union team cannot aff ord tinue to pay off our debts with the banks. to the tune of 75,000 pounds. AFP tries. Only six players who start- “France are an exciting team and to insure its players. Tuilaepa Sailele Maliel- We also need money to pay the players so All on-the-ground costs for visiting teams Paris ed in the northern tour opener playing France in Paris is one of egaoi, who is also chairman of the Samoa they can continue to play,” he said. are also covered. Samoa host the biggest against the Barbarians last week the biggest challenges in rugby,” Rugby Union (SRU), said the organisation The manager of the Samoan team, Aloi rugby nations infrequently, and when they have retained their places as the he said when naming the side. was “bankrupt” in an interview with local Alesana, however, said wages were still do, cheap tickets and small stadiums ensure ll Blacks coach Steve 107-Test Read heads a huge in- Along with Read, Dane Coles media on Tuesday. being paid on time. “We are getting paid gate receipts are low. The match fees for Hansen has called up jection of experience to face Les (55 Tests), Sam Whitelock (93), He added that there was no money to pay and we have everything we need. No one is players also diff er significantly. the cavalry for tomor- Bleus. Hansen said he was leaving Aaron Smith (68), Sonny Bill for player insurance and the head coach’s worried,” he said yesterday. “We have very While England’s players will earn 22,000 row’s clash with a de- nothing to chance despite France Williams (43), Ryan Crotty (32), salary ahead of matches against Scotland nice food and great facilities here (in the pounds each from the RFU, their Samoan pletedA France in Paris with Ki- seemingly in a state of chaos with Damian McKenzie (9), Rieko Io- at Murrayfield on Nov. 11 and England at team hotel). Actually the food is a bit too counterparts will earn just 650 pounds eran Read returning to lead the multiple players injured, and a ane (10) and Sam Cane (50) re- Twickenham two weeks later. A World nice. We’re looking forward to the game on from their federation, according to media strongest available New Zealand dismal record of only three wins turn to the run-on side. Rugby statement published yesterday, Saturday. No one is worried about this.” reports. The imbalance has prompted side. The match-day 23 have 789 from eight Tests this year. Cane made a second-half ap- however, said the sport’s governing body England’s Rugby Football Union (RFU) England prop Mako Vunipola to suggest Tests worth of experience, with France wing Yoann Huget has pearance off the bench when the had increased their indirect investment in will generate around 10 mn pounds when each home player donates at least 1,000 the All Blacks needing to score rated his side’s chance of winning All Blacks beat the Barbarians 31- the SRU’s high-performance programme to England host Samoa on Nov. 25 and, under pounds of their match fee to their Samoan only three tries to become the at 10%, but Hansen was taking 22 while the other eight had the 1.5mn pounds ($1.97mn) in 2017. World Rugby rules, they are under no obli- opponents. fi rst side to record 2,000 Test no notice of such pessimism. week off . Gulf Times Friday, November 10, 2017 7 SPORT

VOLLEYBALL TENNIS USA hope to end 17-year Fed Al Rayyan to clash Cup title drought

AFP to not have a chance to play Minsk and help Belarus in the fi nal but unfortunately, my current custody situation is keeping he United States aim me in California,” the 28-year- with Police for to end their longest old said in a statement posted Fed Cup title drought on her Twitter account. when they meet a Be- “Even though I will not be larusT team missing former in Minsk for the fi nal my heart world number one and two- is always with my country and time Australian Open cham- my team and I will cheer for pion Victoria Azarenka in this them from afar.” weekend’s fi nal. The US team is made up Super Cup title The 17-time champions USA of world number 10 CoCo claimed their last title in 2000 Vandeweghe, US Open cham- Super Cup features the winners of the QVA League and Emir Cup in a one-off match and have lost three fi nals since pion Sloane Stephens, Shelby — to France in 2003 and Italy in Rogers and Alison Riske. 2009 and 2010. American team captain This time they are missing Kathy Rinaldi said she believed the Williams sisters, who have in her team’s prospects in the not played in the Fed Cup this fi nal. season, but all the members “We’ve selected the players of American team are ranked who have been playing for the higher than Belarus’ top avail- team this year and were in- able player, Aryna Sabalenka, strumental in getting the team who is 78th in the world. to the Fed Cup fi nal,” she told Belarus have battled into Wednesday’s news conference. their maiden Fed Cup fi nal but “This is my A-team, I be- will be without Azarenka be- lieve in its strength and the cause of an ongoing custody work that we have done to get battle over her baby son. this far. Azarenka was forced to skip “The players really care the US Open in August after a for each other, so we are very Los Angeles judge ruled that excited and ready to go. We 10-month old Leo could not respect Belarus, they have a leave California until the case strong, talented team which had been settled. have had a great year and “It is heart-breaking for me reached the fi nal.”

GOLF Wiesberger seizes

Coaches, off icials, captains and players pose after the press conference at the QVA headquarters yesterday. Nedbank lead

By Sports Reporter Police are a well-settled team but we have our plans and hope rah third. Al Arabi Club and Al Reuters could wrap up the Race to Du- Doha after their last year’s perform- to win the title in our fi rst ap- Rayyan Club got the seventh and Sun City, South Africa bai this week with victory at ance but we are also ready for the pearance,” Arredondo said. ninth rankings, respectively. Sun City, has some work to do show after intensely training for “We are preparing for the The league will start from No- after an opening 73 that leaves l Rayyan are keen to months,” the Brazilian said. tournament since last three vember 20. ernd Wiesberger en- him one over par. win their fi rst Super Qatar national team player months and we are a happy to joyed a birdie-laden Fellow Englishman Lee Cup volleyball title in and Rayyan’s senior star Mu- play in the event and ready to back nine to grab the Westwood was three shots off Atheir fourth attempt barak Dahi Waleed was also con- grab the title opportunity,” he fi rst round lead in the pace after a two-under- today at the renovated Qatar fi dent of a good show against said. Bthe European Tour’s Nedbank par 70. Volleyball Association (QVA) Police. Al Rayyan manager Ali Ishaq, Challenge at the Gary Player headquarters. “We have appeared in the last Police team’s professional player Country Club yesterday. BUHAI SHOOTS 68 But their rivals Police, buoyed three editions of the event but from Denmark Mads Ditlevsen, The Austrian’s 67 took him South Africa’s Ashleigh by their fi rst Qatar league title unfortunately failed to clinch his teammate John Chigbo and to fi ve under par, one shot Buhai coped admirably with last season, are looking to add to the cup. This time we are deter- their manager Rashid were also ahead of a group of four players swirling winds to battle her their trophy cabinet on their fi rst mined put up a good show and present during the press confer- including Scott Jamieson and way to a one-shot lead at the appearance in the tournament. win the title on the renovated ence. home favourite Branden Grace. halfway stage of the Blue Bay “We are very keen to win the court,” Waleed said. “We are happy to be in the fi - Charl Schwartzel and defend- LPGA in China on Thursday. title which is eluding us for the Rayyan are also powered by nal. It is an important game and ing champion Alex Noren are a Still searching for the fi rst last three years,” Al Rayyan’s their new professional player will be a tough one. It’s a one-off shot further back. win of her LPGA Tour career, Brazilian coach Carlos Schwanke Ivan Borounjak from Serbia. title match. I hope tomorrow will Wiesberger, who is placed Buhai shot a four-under-par said while addressing a press “This is my fi rst time in Qatar be a good day for us,” Ditlevsen 12th in the Race to Dubai, 68 at Jian Lake Blue Bay Golf conference yesterday. and I am looking forward to the said. reached the turn in level par Club on the southern island Super Cup features the win- event. I hope Rayyan will play to In a new experiment, the after two birdies and two bo- of Hainan. “I feel I am getting ners of the QVA League and Emir their potential and win the cup,” QVA recently held the draws for geys, but rattled off six birdies more comfortable with the sit- Cup in a one-off match since Borounjak said. league rankings for the fi rst time. on the back nine, with a soli- uation,” the 28-year-old, who its inception in 2014. Police had Police team coach Damian This novel step has been taken to tary bogey at the 11th. birdied four of her last seven won the league last season and Al Arredondo is very much aware of remedy the grievances of smaller “I made a lot more birdies holes, told LPGA.com of her Rayyan are the Emir Cup cham- the tough task they have on their clubs. than I have in recent weeks, trophy drought. Buhai is how- pions. In the last three years hands. Reigning champions Police when I have been struggling to ever getting closer and has two Rayyan were defeated by Qatar “I am sure it will be a very have got the top billing for the get the ball in the hole,” he said. top-fi ve fi nishes this year. giants Al Arabi. tough match against Rayyan. league, while Al Shamal secured Al Rayyan’s Brazilian coach Carlos Schwanke (L) and his Police “I don’t want to jinx it, but I China’s Feng Shanshan, the “It will be a tough match as They have an experienced side, the second spot and Al Wak- counterpart Damian Arredondo. felt like I found a little bit more world number three who last on the putting green, a little bit week picked up her second win of pace and some confi dence.” of the season, shot a 67 for the SHOWJUMPING Tommy Fleetwood, who lowest round of the day.

SPOTLIGHT Al-Qadi storms to Hathab win Fun-fi lled activities

By Sports Reporter Doha for families

By Sports Reporter the equestrian enthusiasts, aeed Nasser al-Qadi astride Jes- Doha LGCT Doha is not featur- sico won the feature event on the ing world class showjumping opening day of the third leg of competition but has also been SHathab equestrian series yester- o mark the 25th an- transformed to be a day full day. The national equestrian competition niversary of the of activities to cater to every is being held on the sidelines of the Global Saeed Nasser pristine Al Shaqab member of the family. Champions Tour at the Al Shaqab arena. al-Qadi on way Tequestrian venue Tailored especially for fam- Al-Qadi topped the timesheets in the to victory which is hosting the fi nal leg ilies and children, a line-up of Medium Tour 1.20/1.30m class, as he fl ew yesterday. Pic- of the Longines Global Tour, activities such as pony rides, through the hurdles with his 15-year-old ture: Lotfi Garsi the Global Champions League jumping castles, horse riding gelding Jessico in 21.79 seconds. He took and the third edition of the simulator, face painting and home QR5,000 in prize money. ongoing Hathab national roaming magician are on of- The second place went to Salmen Sul- equestrian series from No- fer. And, just like Doha, the tan A M al-Suwaidi, who guided Cantaro vember 9 to 11, the organisers old and the new exist side-by- home in 22.56 secs. The last podium slot has added a new dimension to side as areas have also been went to Awad al-Qahtani in Cassander the events in Doha by includ- set aside for Qatari traditional van het Bremhof in 22.98 secs. ing fun-fi lled recreational games as well as virtual reality In the Small Tour 1.00/1.15m class, Jas- activities targeted at family sets which will allow children sim al-Kuwari came fi rst with Va Va Voom audiences. to experience both old and in a time of 20.00 secs. He was followed Thus, beyond attracting modern activities. by Mohammed Salem al-Marri (Gin Tonic van de Kranenburg) in second place and Ghanim Nasser al-Qadi (Fudine) in third. Two competitions each will be held to- day and tomorrow, as the riders look to up pick points with an eye on the overall title. Hathab, meaning ‘Canter’ in Arabic, is an initiative launched by Qatar Olympic Committee president HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani. The series is being conducted jointly by Qatar Equestrian dividual horse owners to increase aware- 1. Saeed Nasser al-Qadi (Jessico). Time: Both Phases Against the Clock Federation (QEF) and Al Shaqab and will ness of horsemanship as part of Qatar’s 21.79 secs. Prize money: QR5,000 1. Jassim al-Kuwari (Va Va Voom). Time: run till the next April over 12 legs.. history and tradition. 2. Salmen Sultan A M al-Suwaidi (Can- 20.00 secs, QR2,500. Organisers aim to improve the stand- taro). 22.56 secs. QR4,000 2. Mohammed Salem al-Marri (Gin Tonic ard of horse riding among Qatari youths Hathab Results 3. Awad al-Qahtani (Cassander van het van de Kranenburg) 20.45 secs. QR2,000 Qatar Equestrian President Hamad bin Abdulrahman al-Attiyah through Hathab, while also encouraging Medium Tour: 1.20/1.30m Two Phases: A + Bremhof) 22.98 secs. QR3,000 3. Ghanim Nasser al-Qadi (Fudine) 20.79 and LGCT Event Director Omar al-Mannai with Cuban artist Juan the involvement of private stables and in- A, Both Phases Against the Clock Small Tour: 1.00/1.15m Two Phases: A + A, secs. QR1,500 Arel Ruiz Contino at Al Shaqab yesterday.

Friday, November 10, 2017 GULF TIMES SPORT

HORSE RACING Caid de l’Ardus wins feature ahead of TM Thunder Struck It was Caid de l’Ardus’ third straight win and eighth straight top-two finish as Ghazali and Convertino swept both features this week

By Sports Reporter Mohsen’s Trading Profi t a furlong out Doha Pier Convertino (left) rides Caid de before Convertino had Al Maftoon join l’Ardus to victory in the Umm Qarn the party. Soon it was a duel and Al Cup ahead of TM Thunder Struck Maftoon couldn’t do much as Parkes hampion Trainer Jassim Ghaz- ridden by Jean Baptiste Hamel and Ride found some extra reserves to ali and jockey Pier Convertino (centre) at the QREC yesterday. move ahead for a victory. combined well yet again as In the fi rst two races of the day, Mo- Khalifa bin Sheail al-Kuwari- hamed Rashid al-Kuwari-trained Yat- ownedC Caid De L’Ardus won a thriller of zakhan and Hassan al-Matwi’s Raqee an Umm Qarn Cup at the Qatar Racing shed their respective maiden status. and Equestrian Club (QREC) yesterday. In the mile-long feature on turf, Race 1: 1. Yatzakhan (Marvin Suer- Convertino had his fi ve-year-old ride land), 2. Ibn Al Ameed (Jean Baptiste move into the lead early on and just Hamel), 3. AJS Lafan (Saleem Golam), about managed to stay ahead of them 4. Hatem (Alberto Sanna). Won by: 1/2, all at the post, with Alban de Mieulle’s 1 3/4, Shd. Owner: Rashid Khamil Saif ward, TM Thunder Struck, breathing al-Kuwari. Trainer: Mohamed Rashid down his neck. Seif al-Kuwari. Caid de l’Ardus registered his third Race 2: 1. Raqee (Marc Lerner), 2. Al straight win and eighth straight top- Ghawja (Alberto Sanna), 3. Radhwa two fi nish, and in the process helped (Marvin Suerland), 4. Arbed (Jean Ghazali and Convertino sweep both Baptiste Hamel). Won by: 4 3/4, No, 1. the features this week. Owner: Hassan al-Matwi. Trainer: Has- Hadi al-Ramzani-saddled Al- san al-Matwi. muheet fi nished a further length and Race 3: 1. Parkes and Ride (Darren Wil- a half down for third place under Al- liams), 2. Al Maftoon (Pier Convertino), berto Sanna. 3. Trading Profit (Marvin Suerland), 4. In the penultimate race of the day, Poet’s Song (Alberto Sanna). Won by: Notalot emerged as the fi rst winner of 1/4, 2 1/4, 1 3/4. Owner: Khalid Nasser al- the season for Ahmed Kobeissi, when Naimi. Trainer: Khalid Nasser al-Naimi. the Sanna-ridden gelding won the Race 4: 1. Sir Guy Porteous (Anas Thoroughbred Plate event for three- al-Seyabi), 2. More Than A Dream year-olds only. (Marc Lerner), 3. Al Muraqabah (Pier Sanna and Notalot got along well as Convertino), 4. Bluebeard (Marvin they cruised past the post, four and a Shajaa, was second ahead of Namroud, Suerland). Won by: 2 1/2, No, 1 1/4. half lengths ahead of Flower Festival, with Marvin Suerland astride. Owner: Injaaz Stud. Trainer: Mubarak making her QREC debut under Marc Khalifa bin Sheail al-Kuwari (L) After a successful Wednesday out- al-Khayareen. Lerner for trainer Hamad al-Jehani, receives the owner’s trophy from ing that saw two of their runners pick Race 5: 1. Zahwa (Pier Convertino), 2. while Ghazali’s Wayside Flower made Rashid Abdullah al-Amri, former up victories, Injaaz Stud’s only winner Samhan Al Shajaa (Anas al-Seyabi), it to the frame under JP Guillambert. champion rider in Qatar, after Caid on the day was Mubarak al-Khayarin- 3. Namroud (Marvin Suerland), 4. Jean Baptiste Hamel helmed Majed de l’Ardus won the Umm Qarn Cup. trained Sir Guy Porteous, who regis- Afra (Stephan Ladjadj). Won by: 2 1/4, Seifeddine’s ward, Binzart, in the six- tered his second victory in Qatar yes- 2 1/4, 1/2. Owner: Sheail bin Khalifa furlong Thoroughbred Handicap event terday. al-Kuwari. Trainer: Mohamed Jassim for horses rated 75-95, and after going Al-Seyabi had the six-year-old Ghazali. through traffi c in the fi nal furlongs of gelding closely follow early leader Race 6: 1. Binzart (Jean Baptiste the sprint, they emerged victorious. Greyscape, who weakened in the fi nal Hamel), 2. Top Face (Alberto Sanna), Al-Ramzani-trained Top Face and two furlongs, but Sir Guy Porteous 3. Copleys Walk (Tomas Lukasek), 4. Mohamed Hussain’s Copleys Walk built a healthy lead up front. Erroneous (Pier Convertino). Won were second and third respectively. Mohamed Jassim Ghazali’s Al Mu- by: 1 1/4, Nk, 3/4. Owner: Mubarak bin Trainer Mohamed Jassim Ghazali raqabah looked set for a runner-up Saeed al-Jafai al-Naimi. Trainer: Majed registered his fi rst win of the season fi nish under Convertino, till More Seifeddine. with Sheail bin Khalifa al-Kuwari- Than A Dream, helmed by Marc Lern- Race 7: 1. Notalot (Alberto Sanna), owned Zahwa in the Local Purebred er, made a run for it wide outside and 2. Flower Festival (Marc Lerner), 3. Arabian Handicap event for horses edged out the fi lly by a nose at the post. Wayside Flower (JP Guillambert), 4. rated 85 and below. In the Class 4 Thoroughbred Handi- Pleasletmewin (Pier Convertino). Won Convertino had Zahwa pick up pace cap event for horses rated 80 and be- by: 4 1/2, Hd, Shd. Owner: Mohamed coming off the bend in the mile long low, Khalid Nasser al-Naimi-trained Kazim al-Ansari and Sons. Trainer: race, and the duo surged past Pierre Parkes and Ride registered his third Ahmed Kobeissi. Deymonaz-saddled Namroud and career win edging out Mohamed Jas- Race 8: 1. Caid de l’Ardus (Pier Con- then early leader Samhan Al Shajaa, sim Ghazali’s Al Maftoon at the post vertino), 2. TM Thunder Struck (Jean trained by Hassan al-Matwi, in the by a quarter of a length. Baptiste Hamel), 3. Almuheet (Alberto fi nal 50 metres, for a four and a half- Parkes and Ride showed some amaz- Sanna), 4. Zameer (Marc Lerner). Won length victory. ing pace under Darren Williams on the by: Hd, 1 1/2, 1. Owner: Khalifa bin Sheail Anas al-Seyabi’s ride, Samhan Al fi nal stretch, running alongside Zuhair al-Kuwari. Trainer: Jassim Ghazali.

WORLD BILLIARDS Haria bounces back in style to beat Russell

By Mikhil Bhat Doha

he year was 2012, the place was Leeds, England. A 19-year-old Dhvaj Haria went up against a 16-time world champion in TMike Russell on his World Billiards Championship debut. There was little that Haria, from the Indian city of Ahmedabad, could do as he saw the Englishman go ahead with a 539-313 win in the timed format of the game. A little more than fi ve years later, at the IBSF World Billiards Champion- ship opener in Doha, Haria rallied back from a 1-2 defi cit in the 150-Up format, blanked the 48-year-old veteran in the fourth frame, before closing out a see-saw of a fi fth to open his campaign with a 3-2 win (2-151, 151-135, 73-150, 151-0, 150-140). India’s Pankaj Advani in action against Ihab al-Salih during their round robin “It’s been tough journey to be hon- stage match at the IBSF World Billiards Championship. est, to beat him after a gap of fi ve years,” Haria told Gulf Times after the (Myanmar) 3-1 win over Russell yesterday. Day 1 Results Peter Gilchrist (Singapore) beat “Though it’s not a good score but a India’s Dhvaj Haria (left) in action against England’s Mike Russell (unseen) Dhvaj Haria (India) beat Mike Russell Khamis al-Obaidli (Qatar) 3-0 win is a win. I must have played him during their round robin stage match at the IBSF World Billiards Championship (England) 3-2 Rupesh Shah (India) beat Dhvaj Haria 3-4 times by now but this is the fi rst match at Al Arabi Sports Club yesterday. PICTURES: Ram Chand Dhruv Sitwala (India) beat Robert Hall (India) 3-2 time I have beaten him.” (England) 3-2 Brijesh Damani (India) beat Abdulka- Talking about the 2012 match against Chit Ko Ko (Myanmar) beat Khamis rim Maksoud (Syria) 3-0 Russell, the 24-year-old said, “In the if you don’t then you don’t deserve to highly enough of them. All the guys to start after the billiards and he wants al-Obaidli (Qatar) 3-0 Mike Russell (England) beat Yazan long format of the game, he (Russell) win. And I had many chances, missed a there… for me, it’s the best federation to get the feel of the table, for the expe- Rupesh Shah (India) beat Aidan Mur- Alhadad (Syria) 3-0 is obviously much better. The shorter few shots,” Russell said after the game. in the world. It’s true. The amount they rience,” Russell said. ray (Ireland) 3-1 Peter Gilchrist (Singapore) beat Robert format suits my style of play better. “Didn’t play great, but I didn’t play do for their players, for their staff . You Haria, meanwhile, picked up an- Aung Htay (Myanmar) beat Brijesh Hall (England) 3-1 “Having beaten a champion in the bad either. I made four breaks over a see the conditions here, it’s just won- other victory over Irish veteran Aidan Damani (India) 3-0 Pankaj Advani (India) beat Abdulkarim fi rst game of the tournament here, and 100 and lost 3-2. It wasn’t bad, early derful. You wouldn’t get these condi- Murray, but went down 2-3 against Pankaj Advani (India) beat Ihab al-Salih Maksoud (Syria) 3-0 that too after toughing it out, it has days yet.” tions anywhere in the world,” he said. compatriot and former champion (Iraq) 3-0 Dhruv Sitwala (India) beat Chit Ko KO given me a lot of confi dence.” Talking about his young opponent, Russell bounced back with a 3-0 win Rupesh Shah. Nay Thway Oo (Myanmar) beat Sid- (Myanmar) 3-2 Russell, 48, blamed missing a few he said, “He is a good player, especially in his second game of the day, against Champion Pankaj Advani fi nished dharth Parikh (India) 3-0 Rupesh Shah (India) beat Yazan Alha- crucial shots, like a few cannons, when in the short game format.” Syrian 15-year-old Yazan Alhadad. the opening day without losing a sin- Pankaj Advani (India) beat Aung Htay dad (Syria) 3-0 it looked like he was in control at 121-3 Russell worked with the Qatar Bil- Qatar’s Khamis al-Obaidli suff ered gle frame, beating Iraq’s Ihab al-Salih, (Myanmar) 3-0 Aung Htay (Myanmar) beat Ihab al- in the fi fth frame, and an in-off at 131- liards and Snooker Federation (QBSF) two defeats, at the hands of Singapo- Myanmar’s Aung Htay and Syria’s Ab- Sourav Kothari (India) beat Siddharth Salih (Iraq) 3-0 90, for the loss. for seven years, starting 2007, training rean star Peter Gilchrist and Myan- dulkarim Maksoud. Parikh (India) 3-1 Sourav Kothari (India) beat Steve “The tables are very nice, wonder- players. mar’s Chit Ko Ko. Others who were unbeaten on the Steve Mifsud (Australia) beat Nay Mifsud (Australia) 3-1 ful conditions; in fact they are too nice. “They are wonderful people. I was “Khamis is a lovely guy and is basi- day were Shah and Sourav Kothari, be- Thway Oo (Myanmar) 3-2 Dhvaj Haria (India) beat Aidan Murray If you have a chance you should win, there for seven years and I can’t speak cally here for the snooker that is going sides Singaporean Peter Gilchrist. Robert Hall (England) beat Chit Ko Ko (Ireland) 3-1