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Home , Adria Tour, Djordje Djokovic, Francois Pienaar, Haris Rauf

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Tuesday, June 23, 2020 FOOTBALL Dhul-Qa’da 2, 1441 AH Mourinho hits back GULF TIMES at Merson’s criticism of playing style SPORT Page 3

TENNIS Two virus cases raise questions over Djokovic tournament Croatia’s Coric too tests positive for Covid-19; Zverev and Cilic test negative Murray says priority is to play at AFP US Open and French Open Paris, France Reuters “I don’t mind what the situation New York, United States is, providing it is safe. If I was orna Coric said yester- told I could take one person day he had become the with me... you can make that second player to test ormer world number work. I’d probably go with a positive for coronavirus, one Andy Murray says physio and some coaching B he is looking forward to could be done remotely.” prompting growing questions F about an exhibition tournament competing at the US Open and The ATP and WTA Tours are set in the Balkans featuring world French Open later this year but to resume in August but the number one . only if it is safe enough amid spotlight is on the sport after “Hi everyone, I wanted to in- the Covid-19 pandemic that and Borna form you all that I tested posi- shut down the sport in March. Coric tested positive following tive for Covid-19,” the Croatian, The US Open will be staged their participation in Djokovic’s ranked 33rd in the world, posted without fans as scheduled from Adria Tour exhibition tourna- on Twitter. Aug. 31-Sept. 13 in New York ment. It follows Sunday’s announce- while the postponed French Murray, 33, has not competed ment by Grigor Dimitrov that Open will be held from Septem- since playing in the Davis Cup he had also tested positive af- ber 27-October 11. in November due to complica- ter pulling out of the exhibition Earlier this month, world tions with his hip but is set event in Croatia, which is one of number one Novak Djokovic to return today at a behind- the biggest since the sea- said strict health protocols at closed-doors tournament in son was halted because of the the US Open would prevent London, the ‘Battle of the Brits’, pandemic. players from bringing more organised by his brother Jamie. Coric tweeted: “I want to make than one person on their “My hip has been feeling better sure anyone who has been in support team to the venue for probably the past three or contact with me during the last but Murray said that was an ar- four weeks. It feels better than few days gets tested! rangement he was fine with. it did in March,” he added. “I am really sorry for any “Playing the Grand Slams “Right now, I feel a little bit harm I might have caused! I’m would be my priority,” Murray more confident because I’ve feeling well and don’t have any was quoted as saying by Brit- had more training under my simptoms (sic). Please stay safe ish media yesterday. “I think belt, more practice. In March and healthy!” the schedule is tricky and I time, I’d only been practising One of Djokovic’s coaches and understand the reason why it for four or five weeks since I’d another member of Dimitrov’s (From left) Croatia’s Borna Coric, Bulgaria’s Grigor Dimitrov, ’s Novak Djokovic and Germany’s pose for a group is like that. had the issues.” entourage have also reportedly photograph ahead of an exhibition basketball match in Zadar on Thursday. (AFP) tested positive for the virus, ac- cording to Croatia’s N1 television gios wrote on social media. 465,000 people. test emerged as Serbian football then seen partying at a packed channel. “Speedy recovery fellas, but “I have just received the news league champions Red Star Bel- night spot. Coric had beaten Bulgaria’s that’s what happens when you that my team and I have tested grade reported that five of their Thiem has since travelled to Dimitrov in the second leg of the disregard all protocols. This IS negative for Covid-19,” Germa- players had gone down with the south of France to play in an- Adria Tour in Zadar on Croatia’s NOT A JOKE.” ny’s Zverev wrote. coronavirus just 12 days after other exhibition tournament in Adriatic coast on Saturday. Britain’s Andy Murray called it “I deeply apologise to anyone their derby clash with Partizan Nice. Dimitrov withdrew from the “a lesson for all of us”. that I have potentially put at risk Belgrade. The Adria Tour had already Balkans tournament following “Once you start having mass by playing this tour.” The game was watched by suffered an embarrassing setback that match, complaining of feel- gatherings with people coming He said he would now be fol- 16,000 fans, the largest sporting when the planned Montenegro ing unwell. in from all sorts of countries, it’s lowing “self-isolating guide- gathering seen in Europe since leg of the four-nation tourna- Sunday’s final between Djoko- a recipe for it to kick off,” Murray lines” whilst Cilic announced the continent went into lock- ment was cancelled when it be- vic, who is president of the ATP said. his intention to quarantine for 14 down in March. came apparent Serbia’s health Player Council, and Russia’s Also playing in the tourna- days. The Adria Tour had been or- requirements did not match up to was immediately ment were world number three The results of any test that ganised to fill the gap in the those of Montenegro. cancelled as a precaution. , former US Open Djokovic may have taken are as virus-hit tennis calendar which Commenting on social dis- Australian star Nick Kyrgios winner Marin Cilic, seventh- yet unknown. has been on ice since mid-March tancing measures during the Bel- pulled no punches in his reaction ranked Alexander Zverev and His brother, the tournament’s and was played out to a daily grade leg, Djokovic argued that ous or not, but it’s not up to me However, the US Open in New to Coric’s tweet. Filip Krajinovic. director Djordje Djokovic, said crowd of 4,000 fans at Djokovic’s both Serbia and the region had to make the calls what is health- York will be played behind closed Both Zverev and Cilic later the 17-time Grand Slam winner tennis centre on the banks of the been relatively successful in con- wise right or wrong,” he stated. doors and under strict health ‘NOT A JOKE’ took to Twitter to say they their had taken the news of Dimitrov’s Danube in Belgrade last week. taining the virus. Last week, the ATP and WTA protocols which Djokovic has “Boneheaded decision to go tests had returned negative for result “very hard”. Dimitrov, Djokovic and Thiem, “Of course you can criticise, said they were restarting their described as “extreme” and “im- ahead with the ‘exhibition’,” Kyr- the virus which has killed over Details of Coric’s positive as well as the other players, were you can also say this is danger- tours in August. possible”.

FOOTBALL Real Madrid take control of La Liga with heated win at Sociedad

DPA in the first two games back -af time to see the ball,” said Merino. Barcelona, Spain ter the season resumed after the “They did not hesitate one sec- coronavirus hiatus. ond in raising the flag, if it had Madrid’s defensive midfielder been me at the other end there eal Madrid earned a Casemiro was lucky only to earn would have been doubts.” controversial 2-1 win a booking for an elbow on Mikel Moments later Karim Ben- at Real Sociedad on Merino, although he is now sus- zema fired home Madrid’s - sec RSunday to go top of La pended for the visit of Mallorca ond although the ball struck his Liga, ahead of Barcelona on their on Wednesday. upper arm in the build up, with head-to-head record, capitalis- Vinicius Junior went down in Real Sociedad players claiming in ing on the reigning champions’ the box under minor pressure and vain for handball. Merino pulled draw at Sevilla. Madrid were awarded a penalty one back for the hosts in the final The fate of Zinedine Zidane’s in the 50th minute, with Sergio stages to create a frantic finale team, who was fortunate to have Ramos coolly dispatching it to be- but Madrid held on to move top. several calls go their way at the come the league’s top scoring de- “It’s a penalty on Vinicius and Reale Arena, is now in their own fender of all time, with 68 goals. Karim’s goal is legal, that’s what hands as wins in all of their re- Ramos was later replaced by I’ve been told,” said Zidane. maining eight matches would see Eder Militao after hobbling off “I don’t get involved in contro- them be crowned champions. with a knee complaint. versy because there’s a referee to Despite the tantalising prize of Madrid conceded after Ad- take care of that, I only want to going top on offer, Madrid played nan Januzaj drove home from think about our deserved victory. lethargically in the first half distance, but the goal was disal- “It annoys me that in the end against Real Sociedad, missing lowed because keeper Thibaut they only talk about the referees the spark of Eden Hazard. Courtois’ view was adjudged to and it’s like we haven’t done any- Zidane handed James Rod- be blocked by Merino, offside. thing on the pitch. We can’t con- riguez a surprise start in place of “I think I was far from Cour- trol what they say, we win on the Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema (centre) celebrates scoring their second goal with teammates during the La Liga match against Real Sociedad at the Belgian, who had looked good tois... he had more than enough pitch and today we’ve done that.” Reale Arena in San Sebastian, Spain, on Sunday. (Reuters) Gulf Times 2 Tuesday, June 23, 2020 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT Ten sustainability facts about Education City Stadium is the first Qatar 2022 venue to receive a 5-star Education City Stadium rating under the GSAS

dioxide sensors that ensure ef- were constantly monitored and ficient ventilation and enhanced controlled during the construc- air quality. Similarly, the indoor tion. spaces receive sufficient daylight ducation City Stadium to maintain a comfortable tem- sourced, while 55% of materi- for the QF community, parts of water usage at the stadium is de- throughout the day which im- 9. Sustainable operations is the third FIFA World perature inside the structure. It als have been procured locally the structure will be turned into signed to be 55% more efficient proves the indoor environment The stadium features an effi- Cup Qatar 2022 tourna- reduces or eliminates the need and 29% generated from recy- lecture halls and event spaces for than conventional stadiums. In and contributes towards energy cient waste management system Ement venue to be com- for auxiliary heating or cooling, cled content. In addition, 35.5% the various universities which addition, landscaping around consumption. which promotes waste segrega- pleted, following the successful which generally accounts for a of the building elements can be are based at Education City. the facility contains native and tion and recycling. Additionally, redevelopment of Khalifa Inter- large percentage of energy use. disassembled and reused – in- drought-tolerant flora to reduce 7. Energy efficiency the stadium features automated national Stadium in 2017 and the Education City Stadium incor- cluding the seats in the modular 4. Urban connectivity water consumption. Similarly, A host of measures help to con- controls, leak detection and ef- inauguration of Al Janoub Sta- porates passive design through upper tier, which are due to be The stadium takes advantage of the use of water-hungry turf serve energy within the stadium, ficient metering systems. By dium last year. a number of techniques. Its removed and donated after the urban connectivity through a is minimal. About 75% of the including LED lighting sys- logging and analysing data, the To-date, Education City Sta- façade makes use of highly effi- tournament. number of public transport op- landscaping is further enhanced tems with automatic controls, operators can alert for any unu- dium is the first Qatar 2022 ven- cient building fabric for shading tions, notably the Doha Metro. by an efficient irrigation system demand-controlled ventilation sual peak consumption thereby ue to receive a five-star rating purposes. This provides better 3. Post FIFA World Cup legacy Education City Station, on the which features inline drippers, systems, e-glazing windows and preventing prolonged leakages under the Global Sustainabil- insulation and protects the inte- After the World Cup, the sta- Doha Metro Green Line, is lo- pressure-compensated bub- high resistance insulating ma- or energy wastage. ity Assessment System (GSAS) rior from extreme external con- dium’s seating capacity will be cated just 500m from the sta- blers and an automated irriga- terials. The cooling for the sta- – which is managed and admin- ditions. Similarly, the structure reduced from 40,000 to 20,000. dium and will make it easy for tion control unit. To reduce wa- dium is provided from a highly 10. 5* GSAS rating istered by the Gulf Organisation of the stadium has been built at a The modular upper tier will be thousands of fans to get to and ter loss, organic mulching and efficient district cooling system. For its outstanding sustainability for Research and Development lower level than the natural grade removed in order to provide a from the venue during the FIFA gravel have been used to cover features, the stadium has earned (GORD). – which adds to the project’s sporting facility which is suita- World Cup. The stadium is also the soil without impacting on 8. Construction management three GSAS certifications from GORD compiled the following overall insulation and tempera- ble for local requirements, nota- close to Education City’s People the health of the flora. The project underwent compre- GORD, making it one of the most sustainability features about the ture control mechanism. Even- bly the needs of the Qatar Foun- Mover System, while for private hensive sustainability proce- sustainable venues for Qatar stadium – all of which helped it tually, this will reduce the overall dation (QF) community. The vehicles there are multilevel car 6. Indoor air quality dures for its design, operations 2022. The stadium has received to achieve an outstanding rat- energy consumption in relation seats which are removed will be parks and a number of taxi drop- The stadium has low VOC (vola- and construction management the following certificates: GSAS ing… to the venue’s cooling needs. donated to countries which lack off locations. tile organic compounds) indoor practices – premised on the fact Design & Build (5*), GSAS Con- sporting infrastructure in order materials which reduce indoor the construction has a direct im- struction Management (Class 1. Passive design 2. Sustainable materials to help spread the legacy of Qa- 5. Water conservation airborne contaminants. All in- pact on the natural environment, A*) and GSAS Seasonal Energy A passive design is one that About 85% of the building ma- tar 2022 far and wide. In addition The installation of low-flow door spaces with high occu- economy and people’s health. In Efficiency Ratio. takes advantage of the climate terials have been regionally to providing sporting facilities water fixtures means domestic pancy are equipped with carbon addition, noise and dust levels (qatar2022.qa)

DECISION FOCUS Japan withdraws bid for Rangers assistant coach Beale to address ‘You vs Yourself’ 2023 Women’s World Cup webinar tomorrow AFP hosting two top events in the would withdraw from the proc- the first time, up from 24. Japan Tokyo same country in a short period ess, citing belt-tightening forced won praise for its hosting of last of time, which was reinforced by the coronavirus. year’s – the by the impact of the coronavirus The Brazilian Football Con- first time the tournament has apan is dropping its bid pandemic,” Kozo Tajima said in a federation said it was struggling been played in Asia. for the 2023 Women’s statement. to secure the private and public Despite being interrupted by a World Cup, the country’s He also noted the ASEAN funding needed to mount a com- deadly typhoon, the tournament Jfootball association said Football Federation had already petitive bid, and was throwing was viewed as a success, draw- yesterday, just days before the swung towards a joint bid from its weight behind Colombia. ing massive crowds and stirring sport’s governing body is set to Australia and New Zealand, FIFA is due to announce its de- domestic enthusiasm for rugby announce its decision on the and that Japan had hosted sev- cision on the winning bid on June – especially after the Brave Blos- hosts. eral FIFA tournaments in recent 25, with the field having been soms won a historic quarter- The Japan Football Associa- years. Japan’s withdrawal leaves whittled down from an original final spot. tion president said the country is the event a two-way race be- 10. Women’s football – and fe- The postponed Summer still preparing to host the Tokyo tween Colombia and the joint male sport in general – is gaining Games are scheduled to open on 2020 Olympics, now postponed ANZAC bid, which is regarded as popularity, with the last women’s July 23, 2021, but experts have until next year because of the the favourite. World Cup in France watched by expressed doubts about whether LS and Evolution Sports the topic followed by a Q&A later. Now Michael Beale works coronavirus. The decision by Japan comes 1.12 billion people globally. the coronavirus pandemic will will be teaming up to session, where members of the alongside the likes of Steven “I sensed resistance against weeks after Brazil announced it The next will have 32 teams for be under control by then. host an exclusive we- webinar will be able to gain a Gerard and Gary McAlister in a Lbinar delivered by Ste- further insight from the es- formidable coaching set-up for ven Gerard’s assistant coach at teemed guest speaker. one of Europe’s most famous Glasgow Rangers FC Michael Before his appointment at clubs. Beale on Wednesday, . Glasgow Rangers FC Michael Spaces on the webinar are Based on Michael’s experi- Beale had previously spent limited so in order to access you ences as a world-class coach he more than four years at Liv- must sign up via the Evolution will discuss the concept of “You erpool FC’s Youth Academy, Sports website www.evosport- vs Yourself” which is a motiva- latterly as the manager of the sqatar.com and when register- tional topic that is applicable to club’s under-23 team. ing you will find the option of aspiring young athletes, teach- In December 2016, he de- the webinar under ‘Camps and ers, sports coaches and even cided to take on a new chal- Clinics’. Once registered you those from other professional lenge and project as the assist- will receive details on how to backgrounds. ant manager of Sao Paulo in join the webinar, which will be The webinar will consist of Brazil, but he returned to the delivered via Zoom between an engaging presentation of LFC Academy nine months 6pm – 7pm.

FIFA and EA Sports launch eChallenger series in Asia Real-life professional soccer crown national champions in encers and esports profession- players will team up with es- the four rounds of ‘EA Sports als,” Simon Thomas, FIFA Chief port gamers and social media FIFA Online 4’ series from June Commercial Officer, said. influencers to compete in a 25-30, and the matches will be Four teams of three players new four-nation eChallenger streamed live. from each country will com- series for Asia, organisers EA “For the first time, EA Sports pete in an online tournament Sports and FIFA said yester- FIFA Online 4 fans across Asia set up on EA Sports’ FIFA 20 day. will have the chance to watch game, with matchups includ- South Korea, Vietnam, Thai- and engage directly with their ing single and multiplayer land and China will look to favourite football stars, influ- formats. The USA players celebrate after winning the FIFA 2019 Women’s World Cup in Lyon, France, on July 7, 2019. Gulf Times Tuesday, June 23, 2020 3 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT La Liga hopes to welcome fans back under strict guidelines AFP will have to arrive at the stadium in pre- son in some grounds then we would be Spanish prosecutors file tax fraud suit against Ancelotti Madrid allocated time slots but will be turned very happy,” Tebas said on June 11. away if their temperature reading is The final decision on the matter lies Spanish prosecutors announced yes- image rights, as well as those deriving ting tax fraud while he was in Madrid. over 37.5 degrees Celsius. in the hands of Spain’s National Sports terday that they had filed a tax fraud from his relationship with the club and The Portugal forward also agreed to he return of fans to stadiums in Inside grounds, fans will have to Council (CSD), which must first con- suit against Carlo Ancelotti, accusing related contracts from other brands”. pay 18.8 million euros in fines and back Spain will be subject to strict wear masks, maintain sult with the country’s Health Minis- the former Real Madrid coach of hav- Prosecutors also claim that he did so taxes to settle the case, according to limitations, with supporters and exit one row at a time at the end of try and different autonomous govern- ing hidden a seven-figure sum from in order to “avoid his obligations with judicial sources. having to register in advance, the match. Meanwhile, catering facili- ments. Spain has been among Europe’s the country’s tax authorities. the public treasury”, accusing him of T Prosecutors said the suit had been relying on a “complex network of shell take turns at attending games and have ties will remain closed but fans will be hardest-hit nations in the pandemic, their temperature taken on arrival, ac- given two bottles of water on their way suffering more than 28,000 Covid-19 filed against Ancelotti, the current companies” in an attempt to hide the cording to guidelines issued to clubs by in. related deaths and registering nearly Everton manager, for two alleged identity of the beneficiary of those La Liga. La Liga president Javier Tebas has 300,000 cases. incidences of tax fraud in 2014 and earnings from the tax authorities. The document, seen by AFP, outlines on several occasions expressed hope However, on Sunday it lifted a slew of 2015 totalling 1.062 million euros ($1.19 In recent years Spain has pursued the need for fans to register with their that a limited number of fans could be restrictions in place since a strict lock- million). some of the country’s biggest football contact details if they wish to attend allowed back into games before the de- down was imposed in March, includ- In order for a prosecution to go ahead stars, including Barcelona’s Lionel matches as Spanish football tries to layed Spanish season ends on July 19. ing opening its land border with France a judge will have to accept the case Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, formerly find a way to bring back crowds in lim- However, the final decision rests with and welcoming EU nationals without before eventually summoning Ance- of Real Madrid. ited numbers following the coronavirus the government. enforcing quarantine periods. lotti, who won the 2014 Champions Messi paid a two-million-euro fine shutdown. “In 10 or 15 days we will have an Nevertheless, Spaniards still have League and Club World Cup for Real in in 2016 in his own tax wrangle and All games have been played behind agreement with the government about to wear masks in enclosed spaces and his two seasons in the Spanish capital. received a 21-month jail term. closed doors since the season resumed bringing fans back to stadiums. Obvi- maintain social distancing of 1.5 metres According to prosecutors Ancelotti Last year Ronaldo, now at Italian side earlier this month. Clubs will then be ously it won’t be the whole stadium, (five feet), while access to public spaces declared his salary earnings from his Juventus, was handed a suspended allowed to choose which supporters are and if we could fill 10 percent or 15 per- like beaches and restaurants remains time at Real but not “earnings from two-year prison sentence for commit- allowed in. On matchdays, spectators cent of stadiums for the end of the sea- limited.

EPL FOCUS QSL discussing second phase of Mourinho hits back protocol with clubs he Qatar Stars League (QSL) held many meetings to discuss Tthe most important precautions and general action at Merson’s criticism plan for the second phase of protocol, approved by the Min- istry of Public Health, ahead of the resumption of 2019-20 season QNB Stars League. Executive Director of Com- petition and Football Devel- opment at the QSL Ahmed of playing style Khellil Abbassi held a meeting and social distancing among with coaches of Al Shahaniya, other measures. Al Sailiya, Umm Salal and Al Players and staff will be al- ‘For the first time since I arrived, all six attacking players are available for the game’ Ahli clubs. Meetings with other lowed to quarantine at home coaches will be held at a later during the second phase, on Reuters time. the condition that they commit London The second phase takes place legally to home quarantine and from June 25 to July 23, and will its conditions. see players and coaching staff Clubs can also to choose to ose Mourinho launched take Covid-19 tests starting continue to stay at their current an impassioned defence today. People who test positive place of residence. Players and of Harry Kane’s form un- for the virus will have to follow staff who violate the conditions Jder his playing style at the Ministry of public Health’s will not be allowed to take part Tottenham Hotspur after pun- measures. in training or matches. Teams dit Paul Merson suggested the The meeting stressed on the who choose to stay at their England striker would struggle importance of adhering to the current place of residence will to score goals in the Portuguese precautionary measures that be transferred via bus, with a manager’s system. include wearing masks at all maximum capacity of 30 per- Merson, a pundit with Sky times except during training, cent allowed. (QNA) Sports, said 26-year-old Kane would consider switching clubs if Mourinho continued adopt- COMMENT ing a conservative style in the Premier League, like they did in their 1-1 draw with Manchester United last week. Coach Arteta tells Kane has scored seven goals in 10 games under Mourinho but struggled to make an im- Arsenal players to pact against United - his first match since returning from a hamstring surgery in January - keep their cool and Mourinho said Merson was wrong to judge him based on one FP “When we show frustration game. London we have to show it in the right “The record of goals that Har- way,” said Arteta. “I haven’t ry has with me (in charge) is easy seen the images (of Guendouzi) for you to see ... I can say I had rsenal manager Mikel or what happened, but we will a few strikers who played for me Arteta says his play- talk about it if that is the case. and they are not bad,” Mourinho ers must learn to Emotionally, we have to control told reporters in a virtual news Acontrol their emo- the situations much better.” conference on Monday. tions after they reacted angrily Veteran Brazil international In a five-minute-long re- following an injury to goal- David Luiz was sent off in Ar- sponse, Mourinho then went on keeper Bernd Leno in Satur- senal’s defeat at Manchester to mention the likes of Didier day’s 2-1 defeat by Brighton. City on Wednesday, and Arteta Drogba, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ka- Neal Maupay scored a late said his side had shown their rim Benzema, Diego Milito and winner to give relegation- inexperience in letting their Zlatan Ibrahimovic, reeling off threatened Albion a vital three lead slip at Brighton. their goal scoring statistics un- points and condemn Arsenal Nicolas Pepe gave them the der his tenures at various clubs. to their second defeat since lead midway through the sec- “So dear Paul, I have lots of the Premier League restart, ond half with a sublime strike respect for you,” Mourinho add- leaving Arteta’s side languish- but Lewis Dunk equalised and ed. “I think Harry Kane has no Tottenham Hotspur’s Portuguese head coach Jose Mourinho watches from the touchline during the English Premier League match against ing in 10th and 11 points off the Maupay grabbed the winner problems at all to score goals in Manchester United at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London on June 19. (AFP) Champions League places. deep into injury time. my teams, especially when he’s Maupay was surrounded by “I think every game is com- fit, when he’s fresh and he has Arsenal players on the final pletely different,” said Arteta. routines of playing.” Rodgers says Leicester not fretting over clubs chasing its players whistle – Leno had pointed at “When I was talking about Mourinho confirmed forward him as he was stretchered off competing, there are details Lucas Moura was available for Leicester City are not concerned it would take time to establish line in place. We’re not looking to Champions League for the first the pitch in the first half after when you go ahead and game today’s London derby at home about losing their best players themselves as a top club. move anyone, we want to keep time since their title-winning appearing to suffer a serious management-wise where we to West Ham United after recov- to bigger clubs but they would “We’re always aware that while everyone together. campaign in 2015-16. knee injury following a clash have to improve a lot. ering from an injury while Dele continue to challenge the estab- there are good players, that will “We’re looking to get ourselves “It’s (the top-four race) where with the forward. “But we are a very young Alli is also in contention after lished hierarchy in the Premier always be of interest to other into that bracket and we need to we know what our objective is. Midfielder Matteo Guen- squad. I don’t want to use it serving his one-match suspen- League, manager Brendan Rodg- teams that have more money perform well and keep develop- We’re going to give everything douzi had to be pulled away as an excuse because it is still sion. “For the first time since I ers said yesterday. than us. We’re not naive,” Rodg- ing year on year... We’re trying to we can to finish there,” Rodgers after placing his hands around a football game and it doesn’t arrived, all six attacking play- Having lost defender Harry ers told reporters ahead of Tues- challenge the hierarchy that has said. his fellow Frenchman’s throat. matter at what age you are ers are available for the game,” Maguire to Manchester United day’s match against Brighton & been there for years.” “We’ve proven that when we Maupay said the Arsenal competing, but at this level Mourinho said. last year, players such as Ben Hove Albion. Leicester are third in the stand- play well... we will win games. players should learn about you can’t do it.” “I’ve had matches with only Chilwell and James Maddison “But we don’t lose sleep worry- ings behind Liverpool and You always look ahead of you. “humility” but Arteta disa- The win for Brighton lifted one and now finally I have six so have also been linked with ing about it. We have to continue Manchester City and they are We’re working on getting better.” greed with that remark, say- them five points away from the I can have people playing and on moves away and Rodgers said with our work after have a pipe- in position to qualify for the (Reuters) ing his young squad needed to drop zone with eight matches the bench to rotate players. Our show cooler heads. remaining. attacking options for this match are really good.” create more goalscoring oppor- distance, giving Moyes a cause we have winnable games. We Lucas Moura and Son Heung- Spurs are eighth in the stand- tunities to ease Premier League for concern heading into the re- want to win the next game which min. Dele Alli is also available ings on 42 points from 30 games relegation fears as they prepare maining eight matches of the we’ll try to do. We think we will after missing Spurs’ 1-1 draw and chasing a European spot, to visit local rivals Tottenham season. “We were all disappoint- be fine, but we have to show against Manchester United while 17th-placed West Ham Hotspur today. Only goal differ- ed but we got it out of our sys- that.” through suspension. “Some- have 27 points, the same as ence separates 17th-placed West tems on Sunday,” Moyes, whose West Ham secured a 1-0 vic- times you get grounds that work third-bottom Bournemouth and Ham from the bottom three after side have collected just one win tory during their last trip to the for you and let’s hope this be- only outside the relegation zone Saturday’s 2-0 loss to Wolver- in their last 10 league matches, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium comes a lucky ground for us,” due to a superior goal difference. hampton Wanderers. told a news conference yesterday. and Moyes wants his players to Moyes said. West Ham’s first attempt on “One of the problems we had produce a “similar show”. “We’ve both got different ‘West Ham must create more target did not arrive until the was creating chances but that Jose Mourinho’s Spurs have managers, they’ve got a very chances in battle for survival’ 49th minute, when defender was down to the opponents as been bolstered by the return of good team, but we’ve seen a lot West Ham United manager Dav- Jeremy Ngakia tested Wolves well. by the return of players such as of away wins so far, so let’s hope id Moyes says his players must goalkeeper Rui Patricio from “We’ve been here before, but Harry Kane, Moussa Sissoko, we can do that.” Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta Gulf Times 4 Tuesday, June 23, 2020 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Favre compares Kaepernick to Tillman leaving NFL for military NFL mandates teams set up AFP Los Angeles

reen Bay Packers great Brett tiered facility access: report Favre says Colin Kaeper- nick’s decision to put activism Reuters ers. ahead of his NFL career ech- Goes Pat Tillman’s decision to walk away Los Angeles Tier 2: General managers, team presidents, football operations em- from the league to join the US military. ployees, other assistant coaches, In comments to TMZ published on the memo obtained by ESPN video personnel, security and other celebrity news website on Sunday, Favre from the NFL outlines the essential personnel who may need said Kaepernick — who has been out of league’s mandate that all to be in close proximity to the play- the NFL since 2017 after being widely 32 teams set up tiered ac- ers and other Tier 1 individuals who vilified for kneeling during the national to join the US Army in 2001 after the A anthem to protest racial injustice — will 9/11 terror attacks in New York. cess for all employees. may need to access restricted areas. Adam Schefter reported yester- Only individuals assigned to Tiers rightly come to be seen as a hero. Tillman was killed while on patrol in day that each team must submit 1 and 2 will be permitted access to “It’s not easy for a guy his age — black Afghanistan in 2004. their list of all employees and their restricted areas, and there will be or white, Hispanic, whatever — to stop While Kaepernick’s demonstration access approval before training limits on the number of individuals something that you’ve always dreamed made him a lightning rod for contro- camp begins, the latest step de- from each team that can be assigned of doing, and put it on hold, maybe versy and has seen him unable to land signed to promote health and safety Tier 1 and Tier 2 access at any given forever, for something that you believe an NFL job in four years, the rise of the during the coronavirus pandemic. time. in,” Favre told TMZ Sports. Black Lives Matter movement into the All NFL teams are due to report to Tier 3: Operational personnel, “I can only think of right off the top of mainstream of American life has caused training camp in five weeks, with 26 in-house media and broadcast per- my head, Pat Tillman is another guy that many of Kaepernick’s critics to reverse scheduled for a uniform report date sonnel, field managers, transporta- did something similar,” Favre said. “And, course. It still remains to be seen, of July 28. tion providers and individuals who we regard him as a hero. So, I’d assume however, if the 32-year-old will regain a NFL teams were told to designate All NFL teams are due to report to training camp in five weeks, with 26 perform essential facility, stadium that hero status will be stamped with place in the NFL. Favre thinks he could their Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3 em- scheduled for a uniform report date of July 28. or event services but do not require Kaepernick as well.” be an effective player. ployees and turn the plans into the close contact with Tier 1 individu- Former San Francisco 49ers quarter- “I thought he was a dynamic player league office seven days before the dining hall, practice fields, locker with the team. als. Team and other personnel who back Kaepernick didn’t appear to be when he was playing in his prime,” first mandatory reporting date for room, training room, meeting Per Schefter, the tiers are divided work exclusively in areas of team planning to “leave” the NFL when he Favre said. “He’s still young and hasn’t players. rooms, press area and beyond. Each as such: facilities that are cordoned off from began his kneeling protest in 2016. been hit in several years, so there’s no The “tiers” differentiate which tier must have different entrances Tier 1: Players, coaches, trainers, the rest of the facility do not need to Tillman, in contrast, walked away from reason to think that he’s lost that much employees can access which ar- and wear credentials with photo physicians and necessary personnel be credentialed in one of the three his career as an Arizona Cardinals safety of a step.” eas of a team’s facility, including the identification and their formal title requiring direct access to the play- access tiers.

NBA REPORT 40 MLB players and staff reportedly test Hawks recognise positive for Covid-19 improvement on defense so ‘crucial’ ‘DEFENSE PAYS OFF, DEFENSE PAYS DIVIDENDS, DEFENSE WINS CHAMPIONSHIPS’ AFP past that stumbling block on Los Angeles Wednesday after hammering By Sarah K Spencer out a potential “framework” The Atlanta Journal-Constitution for an agreement with union ajor League Base- chief Tony Clark that paid full ball saw 40 players prorated salaries for a 60- t’s no secret that for most of and staff mem- game season. their 2019-20 season, the Mbers test posi- But the players countered, Atlanta Hawks were one of tive for Covid-19 in the past asking for 70 games. Ithe worst defensive teams in week, USA Today reported USA Today reported that the NBA. on Sunday as talks on how to Manfred emailed Clark on They finished with the third- get a 2020 season underway Sunday saying that the uptick worst defensive rating (114.4), dragged on. in Covid-19 cases, and the re- gave up 119.7 points per game, The newspaper cited two sulting closure of spring train- tied with the Washington Wiz- sources, speaking on condi- ing facilities in Florida and ards for the most in the league, tion of anonymity, saying the Arizona, meant that 70 games and opponents scored an average coronavirus cases had ramped would not be possible and even of 19.5 points off turnovers, the up the urgency of negotiations 60 would be difficult. second-most behind the Cleve- between owners and players It was not clear how the land Cavaliers. They also gave up on a framework for starting coronavirus cases might im- 53.6 points in the paint per game, a season that was originally pact MLB’s plans to play its tied for the most with the Cava- scheduled to begin in March. games in teams’ home ball- liers. The Hawks finished 20-47, The MLB Players Asso- parks without fans. 15 games short of a full schedule, ciation postponed a vote on With spring training facili- since they were more than six Sunday on whether to accept ties closed, teams have been games out of playoff contention or reject MLB’s proposal for a told to plan to conduct pre- at the time of the season’s sus- 60-game season with players season training in their home pension March 11 because of the receiving full prorated salaries. cities. coronavirus, and thus excluded Negotiations had dragged An expected three-week from the NBA’s plans to restart on for weeks as MLB sought preparation period would like- in Orlando, Florida. not only to prorate salaries ly see opening day pushed to There were games they made based on the number of games the week of July 27. poor offensive teams seem like played, but also to pay only a The league said it wants prolific scorers — giving up 143 percentage of those salaries — the regular season to end by points in December to the New something players said they September 27 so an expanded York Knicks, who score an av- would not accept. playoffs can be completed by erage of 105.8 points per game, MLB commissioner Rob late October or early Novem- was one of the season’s lowest Manfred thought he’d gotten ber. points. That’s why improving on defense is a must for the Hawks if they want to take a step for- ward next season. NBA worried but ‘resolute’ about “It’s crucial,” said John Col- lins, who himself became a more restart as virus spreads active defender this season, The NBA is concerned about coronavirus outbreaks. though he missed 25 games be- the growing number of coro- The league is “closely moni- cause of a suspension. “Defense navirus cases in Florida but toring the data in Florida and pays off, defense pays dividends, intends to go ahead with its Orange County and will con- defense wins championships, plan to restart the season in tinue to work collaboratively it does all of the above. It’s the Malik Monk (right) of the Charlotte Hornets tries to stop Trae Young of the Atlanta Hawks during their game at Spectrum Center on December 8, 2019. (TNS) a “bubble” in the state, ESPN with the National Basketball ultimate equaliser. I feel like reported Sunday. Players Association, public there’s a multitude of examples gether: last season, their “Core what we’re excited about is the But we didn’t always go back and his skills on offense, but often Florida has experienced health officials and medi- of teams and people in the league Five” group of Collins, Trae amount of opportunity and what compete on the other end. It was, is a liability on defense, ranking record number of daily diag- cal experts regarding our that don’t have a lot of offensive Young, Kevin Huerter, Cam Red- they showed when they were teams would score, I don’t think last among point guards in ES- noses of COVID-19 the past plans,” NBA spokesman Mike talent, but make a living on the dish and De’Andre Hunter played able to play together, but that we took enough pride in (playing PN’s defensive real plus-minus three days, with Saturday’s Bass said. Orlando, located defensive end. I feel like for us, just 205 minutes together, with a still is a very limited sample size. defense), and just try to go back (-3.12), which marks “a player’s number of new cases at in Orange County in Central finding a defensive identity will defensive rating of 111.8 and of- And so that’s going to help us de- and score more than them on the estimated on-court impact on 4,049 — a single-day record. Florida, hasn’t been hit as be, like I said, crucial.” fensive rating of 117.9 (net 6.1). fensively, that’s going to help us other end. So in a lot of ways, it’s team defensive performance, The NBA plans to host players hard by the coronavirus as The Orlando Magic, who are “One of the areas that each offensively, that’s going to help a change in mentality of winning measured in points allowed per at The Walt Disney World Re- South Florida. Still, players No. 8 in the Eastern Conference guy has to continue to grow is us as a unit.” teams play defense.” 100 defensive possessions.” sort near Orlando, Fla., where expressed concern that non- at 30-35, are a decent example of defensively,” Pierce said. “When On offense, the Hawks were The Hawks are capable of Young ranks second among 22 teams with playoff chances NBA employees, such as the the group Collins is referring to, you add in rebounding, when up-and-down (No. 16 with 111.8 competing more on defense, point guards in offensive real will finish the regular season. housekeeping or dining staff, teams whose defense is often the you add in certain lineups play- points per game, No. 23 field- Huerter thinks, as there were plus-minus with a 4.42 (Steph The postseason will follow at could introduce the virus into difference-maker as opposed to ing well together and getting that goal percentage at 44.9%, No. 30 times they got clutch stops Curry is at 4.48 but played in the same site. the bubble, according to the elite scoring. experience, that’s all part of the in 3-point percentage at 33.3%), (shutting down DeMar DeRozan only five games because of inju- ESPN said commissioner report. One big step already has been growth. So Clint obviously, as we but they often tried to outscore at the end of their win in San An- ry), so all in all, ESPN has his real Adam Silver recently held On Tuesday, the league taken to improve the Hawks’ talked about, that was a need for opponents instead of consist- tonio is prime example), it’s just plus-minus (a “player’s average a conference call with NBA issued a 113-page guide that defense, and that’s the addition us at the trade deadline because ently defending, Huerter said, a matter of being more consist- impact in terms of net point dif- team executives and ad- outlined health protocols and of center Clint Capela, though it addressed a few needs, but which is a mindset that needs to ent on that end. ferential per 100 offensive and dressed the Florida outbreak. other procedures that will be coach Lloyd Pierce has made it it still comes down to each guy change. Young, who started in the defensive possessions”) at 1.10. The report said Silver was in place in Florida. The teams clear it’s not Capela’s job to be a individually taking part in their “It’s very easy for us, some- All-Star game at age 21 and was For Young’s part, he listed “resolute but somber” and are expected to arrive in the savior on defense. growth and their improvement, times, to try and outscore peo- the fourth-highest scorer in the conditioning as one of the things was confident that keep- second week of July for an Pierce thinks the Hawks will and we’ll do that. We’ll be bet- ple,” Huerter said. “We can league (29.6 points per game) at he’ll be working on this offsea- ing players together in the abbreviated training camp, improve as a whole as their main ter as a unit when we’re all able score, I feel like, with anybody the time of the season’s suspen- son, so he can compete better on bubble would help prevent with play resuming July 30. group gets more playing time to- to play together.” The ‘Core Five,’ and we can put up a lot of points. sion, carried the Hawks with both ends. Gulf Times Tuesday, June 23, 2020 5 SPORT

RUGBY How Mandela inspired Pienaar and Springboks to conquer the world AFP Christie had referred to as the “high Madiba regularly invited us for tea and Johannesburg road” by beating defending champions our second son, Stephane, who was Australia. four or five at the time asked ‘why is Mr Thirty-one days and four more Mandela only Jean’s godfather and not rancois Pienaar, even 25 years games packed full of dramatic incident mine too?’ We had to explain that he on, conveys a sense of disbe- later Pienaar and his men contested didn’t get the call! lief and awe when he talks of the rugby championship of the world “However Stephane ran straight to that crisp Highveld winter’s against their oldest and most respected Madiba and said to him, ‘Mr Mandela, F will you please also be my godfather? day that the Springboks won the Rug- foe, the All Blacks. An epic final went by World Cup for the first time. The into extra time before And Madiba didn’t miss a beat, saying Springbok ’s wonder is not landed his storied knockout blow send- of course and adding that his Xhosa so much about the fact that his team ing a wave of patriotic harmony that name would be Gorha, the brave one. won the at Ellis Park swept over all creeds and hues such as We had such intimate conversations. I on June 24 1995, for he says he always the country had never experienced be- am truly the luckiest sportsman alive felt they could pull it off, but that he fore. by a long way; to be so privileged at received the golden trophy from Pres- Pienaar, interviewed on the field that time to be the captain, to share the ident . immediately after the final whistle, platform with him, to be influenced by “I am probably the luckiest sports spoke the inspirational words, “not for him and to get to know him so well,” Pi- person ever because of the unique re- 60,000 but for 43mn South Africans” enaar said. lationship (with Mandela),” he says of a that united a euphoric nation. Pienaar’s Pienaar was dropped from the man who became a father figure to him. men had lived up to their motto “One Springbok side in 1996 and when he Their close bond, a young white Afri- Team, One Nation” with their 15-12 announced he would be leaving to join kaner and the famous black prisoner victory and Madiba’s captain recalls in Saracens in London, Mandela sum- of Robben Island, grew out of Pienaar’s wonderment that as the cup was be- moned him to lunch and left him with a captaincy of the Springboks and Man- ing handed to him they spoke, almost final request. “Francois you promise me dela’s visionary and altruistic support in unison, exactly the same sentence. you will come back one day and you’ll of a team who played in a jersey many of “Francois, thank you for what you’ve make a difference.” his followers despised. It started with a done for this country” — “Mr Presi- On his return to , Pien- cup of tea, he told AFP. dent, thank you for what you’ve done aar obliged by establishing the Make “The president invited me to visit for this country.” a Difference Leadership Foundation him in his office at the Union Buildings The bond between the rugby player (MAD) in Mandela’s name with the aim in Pretoria. We talked about all things and the struggle hero would extend of developing academically talented — not just the World Cup. He wanted well beyond the World Cup. “He invit- scholars with leadership potential into to know a lot about me. There were so ed himself to our wedding,” laughs Pi- future leaders for South Africa. many high-powered people waiting enaar. “We were having a celebration at He runs his own sports eventing outside to see him and every time Mary the Union Buildings and I said I wanted company, Advent Sport Entertainment (Mxadana, Mandela’s assistant) would to introduce him to my fiancee Nerine. and Media (ASEM), which is respon- come in to hurry him up he would say He took her hand and said “would you sible for, among other properties, the to her: “Mary, I’m speaking to my - feel offended if I come to your wedding hugely successful Varsity Cup student tain.” safe. I know it sounds bizarre. You have their final pre-World Cup training ses- removed from the head of . Nerine?” rugby competition and the “I was so nervous before I went into no idea of his aura, the genuineness, the sion at sports fields in Cape Town and To a refrain of “Nelson! Nelson! “When my son Jean was born he said Marathon. Pienaar says the life lesson his office and when I left I sat in my car sense of humour. We laughed. There wished the awe-struck group of young Nelson!” Mandela officially opened he wanted to be his godfather, ‘if we he learnt from the late president Man- and just felt I had been in the presence was an immediate bond,” says Pienaar. men well; receiving in return a Springbok the tournament in Cape Town and the didn’t mind’, and he gave him a Xhosa dela is that “good leadership is based on of a very wise and caring man and I felt Mandela visited the Springboks at cap from , spontaneously Springboks took what their coach Kitch name: Mkhokheli, which means leader. good values”.

SPOTLIGHT Warner says Aussies Three Pakistan cricketers shouldn’t sledge Kohli

AFP test positive for coronavirus New Delhi ustralia’s David Warner has warned against Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf and Haider Ali had test positive for virus despite showing no symptoms sledging Virat Kohli Awhen India tour Aus- AFP The team will eventually practice in “The number of seven is actually tralia this year, saying “trying Karachi what officials are describing as a “bio- quite low,” said Faul, who added CSA’s to poke the bear” will only make secure” environment. Following the medical and ethical protocol prevent- the star batsman play better. As August 5 Test in Manchester, Pakistan ed him from revealing the identity of cricket slowly gets back into ac- he (PCB) will play the remaining two games in those who had tested positive. The an- tion after coronavirus suspen- announced yesterday that three Southampton, starting on August 13 nounced cases of Covid-19 are likely sions, India are slated to tour players have tested positive for and 21 respectively. to further delay the resumption of the Australia for four Test matches Tcoronavirus ahead of the team’s Pakistan will also play three Twen- sport in the country. in December-January in what is tour of England next month. The PCB ty20 internationals in Southampton on A three-team event was scheduled set to be a highlight of the year. said leg-spinner Shadab Khan, fast August 29, 31 and September 2. for this coming Saturday involving 24 Warner, a lynchpin of Aus- bowler Haris Rauf and teenage batsman Fortunately for the team, the three leading players. It was due to be South tralia’s batting attack, said he is Haider Ali had tested positive for Cov- players who tested positive were not ex- Africa’s first televised sporting event looking forward to the confron- id-19 despite showing no symptoms pected to play in the Test matches, only since the country went into lockdown in tation but that he will steer clear and would now go into self-isolation. in the games. March. It was announced last Saturday of taunting India’s captain. “I The first Test against England at Old Team physio Cliffe Deacon and bowl- the competition had been postponed thrive on the crowd, I thrive on Trafford is due to start on August 5. ing coach Waqar Younis will fly directly because it had not yet been approved by people sort of going at me in the The PCB is testing its players and of- to England from South Africa and Aus- the government. field. And getting into that bat- ficials ahead of the much-anticipated tralia before taking their coronavirus Faul said CSA had been “a little am- tle,” Warner told India Today. tour, which will also see games played tests. Senior batsman Shoaib Malik, bitious” in announcing the date, espe- “I think Virat is quite similar, in Southampton. Pakistan is experienc- who will only play in the Twenty20 cially as Centurion, where the match if you go a little bit at Virat he ing a surge in coronavirus cases, with internationals, was allowed to join the was due to be played, is considered a comes out harder with the bat more than 180,000 so far including team in late July to let him spend time virus “hot spot”. Faul said no new date and he plays amazing. We have 3,590 deaths — though real numbers are with his Indian tennis star wife Sania had yet been decided and it was possible seen that time and time again. thought to be much higher. Mirza and their son in Dubai. the venue would be changed. There is no point in actually try- The PCB also tested 23 players and 12 The news compounds a bad week- ing to poke the bear because at team officials Monday, with results due CRICKET SOUTH AFRICA end for South African cricket after it the end of the day if you do that today. Additional tests are planned for ANNOUNCES SEVEN CASES emerged that CSA had been criticised it just fires up the person a bit later in the week in Lahore, with only Cricket South Africa (CSA) revealed by sports minister Nathi Mthethwa more.” players testing negative allowed to fly to yesterday that seven people within the during a parliamentary briefing over the Last year India claimed their England. The PCB said anyone testing organisation had tested positive for appointment of three white men — Faul, first Test series win in Australia positive must remain in quarantine for coronavirus, raising questions over the director of cricket Graeme Smith and after 71 years of trying. Warner, two weeks. After that period, they will sport’s potential return to action in the national team head coach Mark Boucher who along with Steve Smith only be allowed to rejoin teammates in country. The acting chief executive of — to key positions. missed the series while they England following two successive nega- South African cricket’s governing body, According to local media reports, served a ball-tampering ban, tive tests. Pakistan players will also be Jacques Faul, said more than 100 tests Mthethwa said he felt “insulted” when said Australia are much better subject to mandatory quarantine upon had been conducted within the organi- CSA president Chris Nenzani told him prepared this time. arrival in England, as per current British sation, and they had included players the appointments had been made on Shadab Khan is one the three Pakistan players to test positive for coronavirus “It’s a much-anticipated re- government regulations. and support staff. merit. ahead of the team’s tour of England next month. (AFP) turn to Australia for India. I am excited, one to be selected and to be a part of that. Last time we GOLF were not bad but were beaten by a good team and their bowl- PGA CHAMPIONSHIP TO ing was relentless,” said Warner. GO AHEAD WITHOUT “Now, India has got the best bat- Simpson wins RBC Heritage at Harbour Town ting line-up and our bowlers will FANS IN SAN FRANCISCO like to target them.” Reuters Covid-19 prior to the second round on Fri- Warner said he’s also keen to New York: This year’s PGA weeks ago after a three- New York day. Next up on the schedule is the Travel- play the lucrative Indian Pre- Championship, scheduled month Covid-19 hiatus with ers Championship from June 24-27 at TPC mier League if the International to be played in early August the first of five tournaments River Highlands in Cromwell, Connecticut, Cricket Council postpones the at TPC Harding Park in San that are closed to the general ebb Simpson birdied three of another event where fans are not allowed to T20 World Cup, scheduled to Francisco, will be conducted public. his final four holes to emerge attend. start October 18 in Australia. without fans because of the Brooks Koepka, whose four with victory at the PGA Tour’s The fate of the T20 showpiece Covid-19 outbreak, the PGA of major titles include victories tightly-contested RBC Her- LEADING SCORES will be decided next month and America said yesterday. at the PGA Championship in W itage in South Carolina on Sunday. The if the World Cup is sidelined, the The Aug. 6-9 event, one the last two years, said he 34-year-old father of five made sure it was (USA unless noted, par-71): delayed IPL could take its place. of golf’s four majors, was would obviously have liked to an extra special Father’s Day by recording 262 — Webb Simpson 65-65-68-64 Cricket Australia has admit- previously postponed from its have fans on site to cheer on his seventh career win on the tour after his 263 — Abraham Ancer (MEX) 69-64-65-65 ted the World Cup looks “un- originally scheduled May date his chase for a three-peat but bogey-free 64 saw him finish on a combined realistic” this year as the pan- because of the scale of the respects the decision. 22-under-par 262, a stroke clear of Mexico’s 264 — Daniel Berger 67-69-63-65, Tyrrell demic lingers. Warner, who is outbreak in San Francisco. “We got to do whatever Abraham Ancer (65). Hatton 71-64-63-66 captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad The par-72 Tournament we got to do to make us safe, At one point early on it looked like play 265 — Sergio Garcia (ESP) 70-65-65-65, in the IPL, said quarantine rules Players Club layout, a munici- keep the fans safe,” Koepka might have to be completed on Monday af- getting confident. It’s amazing to be stand- Joaquin Niemann (CHI) 69-68-63-65 for foreigners entering Australia pal course owned by the city said last week in Hilton Head ter thunderstorms forced a two-hour and ing here right now,” added Simpson, who was one of many problems for 266 — Brooks Koepka 67-66-68-65 and county of San Francisco, Island, South Carolina where 45-minute delay but rain and lightning then won the 2012 US Open on Father’s Day, and the World Cup. has never hosted a major he played in the PGA Tour’s gave way to sunshine at the Harbour Town the 2018 Players Championship on Mother’s 267 — Dylan Frittelli (RSA) 65-69-71-62, “The challenges around get- championship and grand- RBC Heritage. course on Hilton Head Island. Day. Ancer pushed him close, the Mexican’s Justin Thomas 72-66-66-63, JT Poston 67- ting every single nation that stand construction had begun “Whatever it’s going to be, “It was a crazy day. Honestly, I’m speech- long putt on 18 to force extra holes coming 69-66-65, Bryson DeChambeau 67-64-70- participates in the World Cup at the course earlier this year. it’s going to be. Obviously, less right now,” said Simpson, who started up short as the sun set. 66, Michael Thompson 65-69-66-67, Ryan into Australia, given the fact The PGA Tour, a separate you’d like to have fans, but I the day in a four-way tie for first. “It looked Daniel Berger (65), last week’s winner Palmer 65-67-66-69 that we have the quarantine for body which runs the game’s understand with what’s going like we weren’t going to finish but we went at Colonial, and Englishman Tyrrell Hat- 268 — Justin Rose (ENG) 70-67-66-65, Ian 14 days... we have to obviously biggest weekly circuit, on in the world, it might not back out. It was a really long day on the golf ton (66) finished tied for third a shot- fur Poulter (ENG) 64-69-67-68, Matthew abide by those rules and obvi- resumed competition two be possible.” ously we await the decision from course. I didn’t really get going until (noon) ther back on 20-under 264. American Nick Fitzpatrick (ENG) 66-66-68-68 and then the putts started going in and I was Watney withdrew after testing positive for the ICC,” Warner said.

Tuesday, June 23, 2020 GULF TIMES SPORT

ESPORTS UPDATE Alex Zanardi’s neurological El Kholy clinches condition ‘remains serious’ after crash

AFP An investigation has begun Milan, Italy into the circumstances sur- title after a thrilling rounding the accident on the ‘Obiettivo Tricolore’ stage re- lex Zanardi’s neuro- lay race which sees participants logical condition re- journey across Italy on hand- mains serious three bikes, wheelchairs or cycles. Adays after the former Race director Piero Dainese Formula One driver suffered se- said Zanardi had decided late to rious head injuries in a handbike compete. battle with Bulushi crash, doctors treating the Italian “Alex didn’t even have to race Paralympic icon said yesterday. that stage, it wasn’t even on the ‘I knew I had pace and did well in the qualifying and got better with each race’ The 53-year-old has been in programme, but he got caught up an induced coma and on an ar- in the enthusiasm,” Dainese told By Sports Reporter tificial respirator at Santa Maria La Repubblica. Doha QMMF riders to square up alle Scotte hospital in Siena since “He had wanted to show that Friday. Italy could start again after Cov- against Moto 2 champs in QORC “The third night of intensive id, even in sport. That if a group atar’s Ahmed El Kholy care was spent without changes,” of people without legs can do it, won his second Qatar By Sports Reporter Amro al-Hamad, Executive the hospital said in a medical up- everyone can do it.” Racing Online Cham- Doha Director of QMMF said the date. A former F1 driver, Zanardi has pionship (QORC) title, winners will be decided on the “His cardio-respiratory and become one of the great figures Q collective tally of points the this time with a rally car after metabolic conditions remain un- in disabled sports after both his an exciting tussle with Ammar atar Motor and Motor- teams muster over the course changed while the neurological legs were amputated in 2001 fol- Bulushi of Oman in the final race cycling Federation’s of the week. “The riders will be picture remains serious.” lowing a motor racing accident yesterday. It came down to the Q(QMMF) top four riders battling for team points. There Dr Sabino Scolletta, head of on the Lausitzring track in Ger- final corner in the seven-stage will take on Moto 2 Champion- are eight riders in total. Each critical care told journalists: many. simulated Rally of Finland, as ship winners Leopard Racing in rider collects points but their “The brain needs rest. However, Zanardi raced for Jordan, Mi- El Kholy beat Bulushi by a mere the fourth edition of the Qatar effort goes to the team tally. every passing day is a good sign nardi and Lotus in Formula 1 in 0.830-second margin to clinch Online Racing Championship It’s not important where you despite the seriousness of the the early 1990s before switching the WRC8 championship. (QORC). The seven-race series finish - whether you finish first situation.” to the CART championship in the El Kholy, who had won the will begin from today at 8pm, and the rest of your team gets Zanardi suffered head injuries United States where he was se- inaugural QORC car title, was with the final race scheduled late positions, it won’t help,” with multiple facial factures and ries champion in 1997 and 1998. second best to Bulushi in the for June 29. al-Hamad said. fears for his sight after losing He returned to F1 with Wil- first two stages as the Omani set QMMF has already conducted “I met Leopard Racing Team of- control of his bike and colliding liams in 1999 before heading a scorching pace. But El Kholy championships for circuit rac- ficials during the FIM Meetings with a truck during a race in Italy. back to CART. bounced back to win the third ing cars, bikes and rally cars in Monaco. I was discovering stage, with Bulushi losing pre- and the series has grown in opportunities of collaborations cious time as he was 10-second popularity with the on track with them as they are one of behind his rival. While Bulushi taking a temporary halt due to the leading teams in Moto2 did win the fourth and sixth the pandemic. racing. It so happened that stage, El Kholy’s consistency QMMF will be represented by they found out about the sec- proved vital in the end. Saeed al-Sulaiti, Jassim al-Tha- ond edition of QORC. We came The third place battle was as ni, Soud al-Thani and Hamad al- in touch again and the idea of exciting with Mishari al-Thefiri Sahouti, while Marcos Ramirez, putting four of our top riders of Kuwait edging out Qatar’s Xavi Artigas, Dennis Foggia against four of theirs was born. Mansour Dbeissy for the final Qatar’s Ahmed El Kholy. and either Lorenzo Dalla Porta We have been planning for this podium place by the narrowest or Andrea Locatelli make up new series for the last couple margin of 0.005 seconds. day was not my day. I want to the Leopard racing team. of weeks,” he added. El Kholy was thrilled with his thank QMMF for organising the triumph and said he didn’t ex- support. It was a grueling two pect to win the championship weeks,” the Omani said. as he had less experienced in Bulushi received QR13,000 rally racing compared to circuit for runner-up finish, while racing. “I can’t even describe I tried to learn from my mistakes third-placed al-Thefiri took my feeling. I put my best in the and not take too many risks. To- home QR10,000. The online competition but never thought I day’s strategy was not to commit competition, conducted by the was going to win it. I knew this any mistakes and just keep the QMMF has gained in popular- was not my type of racing at all car on the road. I want to thank ity after it was held for cars and because I like circuit racing,” he Amor Al Hamad (QMMF’s Ex- bikes in the last two months. In said. ecutive Director) and QMMF, it’s total 28 competitors have regis- “Rally was a new racing for a great effort from them to- or tered for the championship. me because I have no experience ganise such an event,” added El of it. But I knew I had pace and Kholy, who took home QR15,000 FINAL RESULTS did well in the qualifying and in prize money. 1. Ahmed El Kholy Total time: got better with each race. It was For Bulushi it was a bitter 33:17.944; 2. Ammar Bulushi difficult last two weeks for me. sweet campaign after impress- (Oman) +0.830; 3. Mishari I was practising day and night. ing in the qualifying stages. “It al-Thefiri (Kuwait) +41.604; 4. It was a world class competi- was an exciting race. I did my Mansour Dbeissy +41.609; 5. tion, the competitors have set best and my stage times were Khalid al-Maraghi +59.677; 6. an amazing time and you will very good. But Ahmed was Adel Abdulla +29.237; 7. Zakariya see them in top 10 in the world. better and consistent, and to- Al Ofi (Oman) +33.939

Formula One to launch diversity task force

Reuters One visible element will be an F1 start of July is a big moment support in fighting inequality of people, including drivers, for the peaceful protest and I white supporters out there in London, United Kingdom rainbow, in the colours of all 10 for our sport after nearly four throughout the weekend and ac- to identify what needed to be was so proud to see in person the name of equality for all. It teams and topped in the distinc- months of no racing,” said For- celerate our own efforts to make done to improve diversity and so many people of all races and was really moving. I’m feeling tive Ferrari red, that will appear mula One chairman Chase Carey Formula One more diverse and opportunity. backgrounds supporting this extremely positive that change ormula One is setting up a on cars and race suits from in a statement. inclusive.” Six-times world champion movement,” Hamilton wrote on will come, but we cannot stop diversity and equality task next month’s season-opener in “It is also a time to recognise the Austria’s Red Bull Ring is hosting Lewis Hamilton, who took part Instagram. now. Keep pushing.” Fforce as part of a ‘#WeRa- Austria. issues that are bigger than any two races on July 5 and 12 after in a Black Lives Matter march “I was proud to be out there ac- He announced on Sunday a ceAsOne’ initiative to combat McLaren said their cars would one sport or country. the long break caused by the in London at the weekend, has knowledging and supporting the commission to help motorsport racism and help those affected also carry an ‘End Racism’ mes- “Formula One will stand united Covid-19 pandemic. stepped up his anti-racism Black Lives Matter movement, engage more young people by the Covid-19 pandemic, the sage. to say loud and clear that racism Formula One said the task campaigning. and my black heritage. from Black backgrounds and sport said yesterday. “Our first race in Austria at the must end. We will show our full force would listen to a range “Went down to Hyde Park today “I was also happy to see so many drive diversity.

MOTORSPORT NASCAR steps up security around Wallace after noose found in garage

Reuters “We are going to use every ef- day. prohibited from all events and Toronto, Canada fort we can to determine who “This is a family that needs properties. has done this, whether it’s a sin- to take care of one of its family Despite NASCAR’s ruling, gle person or multiple people,” members whose been attacked. outside the Alabama track on ASCAR has stepped up Phelps said during a conference “We will firmly support as an Sunday there were still plenty of security around Bubba call yesterday. industry, as a family and a com- Confederate flags flying and mer- Wallace for the rain- “I know that the director of munity to make sure Bubba and chandise for sale. Ndelayed Geico 500 at the FBI has informed the Bir- everyone else in this sport is Prior to the race, a small plane Talladega Superspeedway yes- mingham office to use all their safe.” flew above the superspeedway terday after a noose was found in resources to find it as well. Wallace was also one of the with a banner of the Confeder- the driver’s garage. “Unequivocally, they will be loudest voices in the push to have ate flag trailing another that read The only Black driver in NAS- banned from this sport for life. NASCAR remove the Confeder- “DEFUND NASCAR.” CAR’s top series and a vocal There is no room for this at all ate flag from its tracks. Alabama governor Kay Ivey supporter of Black Lives Matter, and we won’t tolerate it. Since the May 25 death of yesterday condemned the act and Wallace was the target of a racial “I don’t care who they are, George Floyd, an Africa-Amer- apologized to Wallace, a native of attack on Sunday when a noose, they will not be here.” ican man who died after a white Mobile, calling the 26-year-old a symbol connected to lynching The incident put NASCAR on policeman knelt on his neck for “one of us”. and America’s slave history, was high alert for the race which was nearly nine minutes, there have “Racism and threats of this left in his team stall. already operating under tight been calls to remove objects hon- nature will not be condoned nor NASCAR president Steve security due to the novel corona- ouring the Confederacy, which tolerated, and I commit to assist- Phelps vowed to use all available virus outbreak. Only 5000 fans defended slavery. ing in any way possible to ensure resources to uncover the iden- were allowed into the sprawling While some in the South see that the person responsible for tity of the person responsible for superspeedway and access to the the flag as a source of pride and this is caught and punished,” said the racist attack and have them infield and pit areas was also re- a remembrance of its soldiers Ivey in a statement. banned from the sport for life. stricted. who died in the Civil War, many NASCAR was among the top- Earlier yesterday the US At- Americans see it as a symbol of three trending topics on Twit- torney’s office for the Northern CONFEDERATE FLAGS oppression and of a dark chapter ter in the US on Monday, with District of Alabama said the FBI “We want to make sure that Bub- in American history. supporters of Wallace using the is reviewing the situation sur- ba is safe and we have stepped In the wake of the nationwide hashtag #IStandWithBubba. rounding the noose to determine up security,” confirmed Phelps, protests against racism, NASCAR In a show of unity, the hashtag whether there are violations of adding he had personally told announced earlier this month was painted on the infield at Tal- Bubba Wallace, driver of the #43 Victory Junction Chevrolet, prepares for the start of the NASCAR Cup federal law. Wallace about the noose on Sun- that Confederate flags would be ladega ahead of the race. Series GEICO 500 at Talladega Superspeedway in Talladega, Alabama, United States, yesterday. (AFP)