Sport

WEDNESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2020 ‘Bring it on’: Australia plot India’s downfall under Adelaide lights It’s a great rivalry... bring it on. We have a very senior team now and can’t wait to get the show on the road.

Australia cricket coach Justin Langer Sport |09

QATAR SENIOR MEN'S BASKETBALL LEAGUE: Al Sadd (Babacar Dieng 27) beat Al Ahli 98-88; Al Shamal (Wael Arkaji 30) beat Qatar SC 92-77 OCA family set to decide on 2030 Asian Games bid race Doha - A dream Games destination

THE PENINSULA – MUSCAT  XXI 2030 ? Since the early 90s, the Qatari We have received very capital has promised and positive feedback from the delivered top-class sports events. OCA family in recent days  XX 2026 In the last two decades or more, and weeks. But we take Aichi- Doha has transformed its image nothing for granted and will Nagoya as a city with love of events to continue to use every becoming the sports capital of the minute of the time we have region. Today in the coastal city left. The presentations  XIX 2022 of Muscat, the Qatari capital will during the OCA General Hangzhou know if it has won the bid race Assembly will be our last against Riyadh to host the 2030 opportunity to convey our Asian Games for the second time. vision to our fellow NOCs After delivering the biggest and we hope they will  XVIII 2018 and ‘best’ Asian Games in 2006 agree that Doha 2030 is the Jakarta- - when Doha hosted more than Asian Games that Asia Palembang 10,000 athletes, officials and deserves and needs in media folks for over two weeks these uncertain times: XVII 2014 - the rapidly developing city is  Qatar Olympic Committee’s Incheon aiming higher yet again. Secretary general and Starting from an opening cer- Doha 2030 CEO, emony staged at the iconic Jassim bin Khalifa International Stadium Rashid Al Buenain XVI 2010 (KIS) - a venue for the 2022 FIFA  Doha 2030 Asian Games' hospitality lounge – the Doha Guangzhou World Cup matches - to the final Majlis showcases what will be offer in 10 years' time. day of activities of the 2006 Asiad, Doha regaled sports fans with a show to remember. DOHA 2030 PROMISES MAGICAL GAMES Innovative Doha  XV 2006 Qatar's World champion and Doha an Olympic Games hero in high EXPERIENCE FOR OCA FAMILY jump Mutaz Barshim is in no 2030 Majlis doubt Doha has covered all bases UNESCO World Heritage site to stage the 2030 Asian Games. 1 showcases  XIV 2002 “Our bid file is very strong Busan and covers all important aspects Traditional and contemporary souqs inclusive Asian to persuade the members of the 3 General Assembly of the Olympic Games vision Council of Asia (OCA) to grant 18 World class shopping malls  XIII 1998 Doha the rights to host the Asian THE PENINSULA – MUSCAT Bangkok Games. God Willing, we can cel- ebrate another big news,” 20+ museums, art galleries and The Doha 2030 Asian Games Bid Barshim said in Muscat yes- Committee yesterday continued terday. “Doha has used sports public art installations to welcome members of the OCA  XII 1994 events to bring fans together. We family to its hospitality lounge – Hiroshima saw this clearly when Doha the Doha Majlis – and discussed hosted the 2006 Asian Games,” 1000+ restaurants and cafes its vision for an Asian Games Barshim added. where ‘We All Belong.’ Doha is not only about sports The Doha Majlis, set-up on  XI 1990 events. The Qatari capital houses 7 beach front hotels the side-lines of the OCA General Beijing the world’s biggest indoor sports Assembly in Muscat, combines facility - the Aspire Academy that the sense of community and sits next to KIS and FINA- belonging associated with a tra-  X 1986 approved Hamad Aquatic successful Asian Games, but it the auxiliary committees of the Sheikh Ahmad added: “We are ditional Qatari Majlis, with the Seoul Complex. was one that provides some of OCA. very fortunate to have two forward-thinking and innovative The Aspetar Sports Medicine my fondest memories,” Al Sheikh Ahmad Fahad Al excellent bids from two of the approach that is key to the Doha Hospital - which employees the Attiyah, a bronze medallist in Ahmad Al Sabah, Chairman of the greatest capital cities in the 2030 bid. Representatives from world’s best hands in dealing skeet shooting at the 2012 OCA, said in a statement: “We are region. Asia’s National Olympic Com-  IX 1982 with sports injuries and conducts Olympic Games in London, said. happy with this gathering in “Our OCA Evaluation Com- mittees (NOCs) have been New Delhi rehab programs for athletes and “Since then I have seen how Oman for the first meeting in the mittee visited the two cities in warmly welcomed to the Majlis individuals seeking top-notch Doha has made significant continent after the events were November and were very to learn more about the bid and medical care - is also in the investment into sport and hosted halted since the beginning of the impressed with the hosting plans, share their thoughts ahead of the neighbourhood of Aspire hundreds of sports events, COVID-19 pandemic. At the end the dynamic programmes in place 2030 Asian Games Host City  VIII 1978 Academy. training camps and more. With of a difficult year, the OCA is very and the world-class sports infra- election today. Bangkok “We are very fortunate to all this experience and expertise happy to bring the Olympic structure, as well as the sheer Using the latest interactive have such facilities for athletes - I have no doubt that Doha can movement in Asia together for our passion and excitement to host technologies, the Majlis, features whether it is for training or host an even better Asian Games General Assembly.” our Asian Games. We know that a touch screen map of Doha recovering from injuries is con- in 2030 to the one I experienced He added:“We would like to our Asian Games will be in very 2030’s masterplan, allowing the  VII 1974 cerned,” Barshim said in 2006. But one thing that will thank the National Olympic Com- safe hands in 2030, and I would OCA family to get a true sense of Tehran yesterday. be the same will be that all of Asia mittees who have been able to like to thank the two bidding cities the bid’s compact, sustainable “At Aspire Academy, we have is made to feel valued and wel- travel to Muscat for our important for their efforts and their and world-class offering. learned how to deliver the best comed,” the three-time Dakar meeting, and also we understand enthusiasm.” Qatar Olympic Committee’s possible performance on the Rally champion said. the complicated situation for The Asian Games was first Secretary General and Doha  VI 1970 pitch. I want to share this Meanwhile during its 74th other NOCs who have not been held in New Delhi, India in 1951, 2030 CEO Jassim bin Rashid Al Bangkok message with the world and with meeting in Muscat, the Executive able to attend in person due to although the roots of international Buenain said: “It has been our the Olympic Council of Asia,” Committee of the OCA yesterday travel restrictions and health pro- multi-sport events in Asia date privilege to welcome our friends the tall athlete added. reviewed the reports of the visit tocols in various countries and back to the first Oriental Cham- from Asia’s NOCs to our Doha “I urge the Asian family of the Evaluation Committee to regions. We are confident we will pionships in Manila, Philippines Majlis in Muscat.  V 1966 to come to Doha and the cities of Doha and Riyadh. have a smooth and efficient in 1913. The 19th Asian Games will "In Qatari culture, a Majlis is Bangkok experience what I just The meeting included visual meeting and that we will continue take place in Hangzhou, capital a traditional meeting place for said,” he said with a presentations and reports from to show our unity and cooperation of Zhejiang province in eastern friends and families and so we smile. the Evaluation Committee of its in such unique circumstances.” China, from September 10-25, could think of no better place  IV 1962 Qatar’s rallying and visits to the two cities, the The vote will be conducted 2022 and the 20th Asian Games to discuss and present our Asian Jakarta shooting star Nasser Saleh latest equipment, prepara- online, even for the NOCs who will be held in Aichi-Nagoya, Games bid to our brothers and Al Attiyah also expressed tions and the stages under- will attend the meeting at the JW Japan from September 19 to sisters from our OCA family. We similar sentiments earlier in lined by the candidate cities. Marriott Hotel in Muscat, and the October 4, 2026. Sheikh Ahmad wanted to ensure Asia’s NOCs the week. The meeting included pre- OCA has been conducting a series concluded: “The OCA is very sat- feel the sense of warmth and  III 1958 “I had the honour of senting a set of reports for the of tests to familiarise the NOC del- isfied with our sports calendar for belonging that they will expe- Tokyo competing in Doha 2006 vice-presidents of the OCA for egates with the voting the next decade as we will rience in Doha and see we have and the atmosphere of cel- East Asia, East and South Asia, procedure. have the next three developed plans for a world- ebration and unity I expe- South Asia, Central Asia, and Looking ahead host cities for class Asian Games that is rienced during the Games West Asia, in addition to the to the vote, the Asian focused on their needs and pri-  II 1954 still lives with me. It reports of the Games in orities," Al Buenain added.. Manila was not my most chairmen of place."

I 1951  New Delhi WEDNESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2020 SPORT 11 Qatar 2022 preparations on schedule SC pledges support for despite pandemic, says Al Thawadi Asian Cup

QNA — DOHA Al Rayyan Venue - the fourth matches and the date of the 2027 bid FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 opening match at Al Bayt Secretary General of the stadium - will be inaugurated Stadium, as well as the launch Supreme Committee for on Qatar National Day. of a strategic partnership QNA — DOHA Delivery & Legacy (SC) Hassan between the Qatar Football Al Thawadi (pictured) has Association and the SC with the The Supreme Committee for affirmed that the anniversary Confederation of North, Central Delivery & Legacy (SC), the of Sheikh Jassim bin America and Caribbean Asso- organisation charged with Mohammed bin Thani assuming ciation Football (CONCACAF), delivering the infrastructure, the country’s reins is a dear which includes providing long- operations and legacy for the occasion to all Qataris because term programs within football FIFA World Cup 2022, has it carries with it great connota- activities for development pledged its full support for tions, the most prominent of across the region, and the par- Qatar’s AFC Asian Cup 2027 which are laying the founda- ticipation of the Qatari team in bid, which was launched by tions for the progress of the the 2021 and 2023 editions of the Qatar Football Association modern State of Qatar, leading the CONCACAF Gold Cup, the (QFA) earlier this year. its people towards unity and most important tournament in Hassan Al Thawadi, Sec- laying down the principles that that region. retary General of the SC, said: have become a beacon on He noted that in terms of the “Qatar 2022 legacy pro- which we have been pursuing tournament’s organisational grammes are anchored in our until today, a matter which readiness, FIFA and the State of football for development phi- made the State of Qatar win the Qatar announced the hosting of losophy. We believe in foot- praise of the world. the FIFA Arab Cup 2021, which balls power to connect cul- In exclusive interview with will be held at the end of 2021, tures, level the playing field, thethe Qatar News AgencAgencyy on the as well as the Club World Cup and advance communities and occasionoccasion ofof ththee in February of the same year, businesses worldwide. It is a NationalNational in addition to the successful legacy of sustainable devel- DayDay ofof Qatar,Qatar, Al ThawadiThaw said the State of Qatar, citizens and protocols to protect workers hosting of the AFC Champions opment far beyond sport and thethe everyevery yyearear ‘‘wew renew residents to express their appre- from the virus, adding that more League for East and West zones, in 2027, it will be the AFC StateState in tthishis ggloriouslorio anni- ciation and gratitude to the first than 90 percent of infra- leading to the final match. Asian Cups to own and take to off versary,versary, theth Day of generations who laid the foun- structure projects were com- All of which, he said, are in new heights.” Glory,Glory, LoyaltyLoyalty aand Pride, dations for our renaissance, and pleted more than two years the interest of testing our oper- Commenting on the bid, loyaltyloyalty and belbelongingo to to motivate the current gener- before the start of the ational readiness of stadiums Nasser Al Khater, Chief Exec- ourour bbelovedeloved country ations to continue the path tournament. before the start of the World utive Officer, FIFA World Cup underunder tthehe lleadershipeader of H towards prosperity and Al Thawadi explained that Cup in a way that contributes Qatar 2022 LLC, said: “Since H tthehe Amir SSheikhheikh Tamim advancing the future genera- this year’s National Day coin- to the continuous improvement 2010, our football and national binbib n HamaHamadd AAll TThani’.ha tions, so that Qatar becomes a cides with the inauguration of of our plans, and confirms the legacy have grown ever more “On“On thisthis ggloriousloriou annual beacon that guides all those the fourth World Cup stadium, confidence of FIFA and the con- intertwined. World-class occasion,occasion, we alsalsoo invoke with determination and two years before the start of the tinental federations in our infrastructure, expertise and thetht e sspiritpirit ooff hhardard wwork and opinion,” he added. FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. organizational capabilities, talent are coming together to diligence,diligence, and truetru patri- He stressed that the prepa- Al Thawadi added that they especially as Qatar shifts its deliver the worlds largest otism represrepresentede in rations for the FIFA World Cup have also witnessed a number interest from building infra- sports tournament and at that, deddeedseds aand not Qatar 2022 are progressing of important announcements structure to strengthening an enduring legacy far beyond words.wow rds. The Day according to the specified time- on the road to the start of the planning for operations and the football. We have the sta- isi anan oppor- tables despite the COVID-19 first match of the World Cup, experience of fans in order to diums, the technology, the tunitytun for all pandemic, as they have imple- including the disclosure of the reach the highest possible people, the experience, and whowh live in mented strict health and safety schedule of the World Cup degree of quality. most importantly, the passion to host an AFC Asian Cup 2027 of global scale and impact.” Qatar, which previously Carlos Sainz in action yesterday. Tokyo governor sees hosted the tournament in 1988 and 2011, are the reigning AFC Asian Cup champions after ‘no circumstances’ for claiming the title for the first time in 2019. The win means that Qatar cancelling Olympics will follow in the footsteps of Japan by hosting the FIFA World Cup as the reigning AFP — TOKYO “I think we have to make champions of Asia. Tokyo a success first, otherwise Qatar is set to host the Tokyo’s governor said she can it will leave a serious impact on most compact edition of the see “no circumstances” under Paris.” FIFA World Cup in modern which the virus-postponed Domestic opinion appears history and would offer a 2020 Olympics will be at odds with the confident tones similar experience in 2027. cancelled, despite rising coro- sounded by Japanese officials Fans will have the chance to navirus infections in Japan and and organisers. attend more than one match continued public scepticism. A poll released Tuesday by a day during the early stages Yuriko Koike warned that national broadcaster NHK of the tournament. the fate of the Tokyo Games found just 27 percent of Sainz wins Stage 1 of Hail Baja 2 They will also benefit from would impact future Olympics, respondents support holding flying into one airport and including the 2022 Winter the Games next year, with 32 THE PENINSULA — DOHA Al Attiyah and his French co- Stage winner Sainz said: requiring only one accommo- Games in Beijing and the 2024 percent backing cancellation driver Matthieu Baumel of half “It was okay, no problems. dation meaning a more acces- Summer Games in Paris. and 31 percent favouring a The duel between Mini’s a point, as they try and hunt Some sandy tracks and some sible and affordable expe- She acknowledged that a further postponement. Carlos Sainz and Toyota’s down Russian Vladimir Vas- small dunes and fast sections. rience, and one which will majority of the Japanese public ‘People will come to see Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah was ilyev (Mini) and Dutchman We keep trying different reduce the carbon footprint of now opposes hosting the hope’ rekindled in explosive fashion Bernhard Ten Brinke (Toyota) things, but all is okay.” the event. Games next year, but said she Koike said she believed on the opening Baqqa to snatch the FIA Baja title. But Sainz’s team-mate Players, meanwhile, will was convinced those concerns those views would change, selective section of Hail Baja second place was sufficient Stéphane Peterhansel pipped benefit from no internal flights could be overcome. pointing to the extensive virus 2 yesterday. for Al Attiyah to claim one early stage leader Yazeed Al and the opportunity to stay “The Japanese public and countermeasures that have The triple Dakar winners bonus point for his runner-up Rajhi (Toyota) to the third and train at a single venue Tokyo residents are looking at been drafted by the gov- continued the fight for spot. fastest time and a late surge helping them remain in peak the current conditions,” Koike ernment, Tokyo and Olympic supremacy that they had “Today was a good run but pushed Vasilyev into fifth condition throughout the said yesterday. organisers. begun at the fourth round of we had two flat tyres (one spot, with Ten Brinke slipping tournament. “We are preparing for the “I am convinced that people the FIA World Cup for Cross- wheel off rim) and we stopped behind his Overdrive Toyota Should Qatar’s AFC Asian future.” will come to see hope again, Country Bajas last weekend. and we changed,” said Al team-mate Jakub Przygonski Cup 2027 bid be successful, The 2020 Games are the once coronavirus measures are The Spaniard and co-driver Attiyah. into seventh after a late fans and players in would first to be postponed during firmly implemented,” she said. Lucas Cruz moved in front of “We lose more than four puncture. benefit from Qatars FIFA peacetime, and organisers and Japan is currently battling their rival after around one minutes. After that, we came Peterhansel said: “It was World Cup infrastructure, officials have been at pains to a third wave of coronavirus third of the day’s 311.57km to the finish and we are only again an interesting day. The including state-of-the-art insist that they can go ahead infections, with Prime Minister stage - after the Toyota Hilux 2min 20sec to Carlos. It is end was a little bit fast. The training sites and stadiums. next year. Yoshihide Suga on Monday driver stopped to change a okay. Today we tested the navigation was not too easy. The training sites are out- A further postponement has urging people to reconsider puncture - and went on to win new tyres for Dakar. We need We continue to do testing ab3 fitted with an array of facilities, been ruled out by Olympic and travel during the holiday period the special by 2min 20sec. to have more experience of nd training. It is a very including FIFA-compliant Japanese officials, and Koike and halting a controversial Sainz’s stage win deprived these tyres.” good opportunity to be here.” floodlit natural grass pitches, said “there are no circum- domestic tourism campaign gyms and media facilities. stances” under which she could over the New Year. envisage the Games being Japan has seen a compara- cancelled. tively small outbreak of the “Citizens of the world are virus, with fewer than 2,600 Qatar Basketball League: Al Shamal and Al Sadd win seeing the Tokyo Games as a deaths reported since the coun- symbol that humanity will have try’s first case was identified in defeated the coronavirus, that January. will lead to the Beijing Winter A 54-page report released Games and then the Paris this month outlined the Games after that,” she said. measures organisers say will “Unless Tokyo takes full keep athletes and spectators efforts against the coronavirus, safe, ranging from tests before then what will happen to Paris arrival to bans on cheering four years from now?” she said. loudly in venues.

Citizens of the world are seeing the Tokyo Games as a symbol that humanity will have defeated the coronavirus, that will lead to the Beijing Winter Games and then the Paris Games after that. Unless Tokyo takes full efforts against the coronavirus, then what will happen to Paris four years from now? Action during a Qatar Basketball League match between Al Shamal Yuriko Koike and Qatar SC at Al Gharafa Sports Club Hall yesterday. Al Shamal Tokyo Governor claimed full points with a 92-77 victory. In another game yesterday, Al Sadd beat Al Ahli 93-88. 10 SPORT WEDNESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2020

Messi salary at Barca ‘unsustainable’, says presidential candidate

REUTERS – BARCELONA

Lionel Messi’s salary is too big for Barcelona due to their financial predicament, presidential candidate Emili Rousaud has said, adding that he wishes to keep the club’s all-time top scorer on a reduced contract. Messi, who Gerrard pays sought an exit Al Sadd from Barca in the emotional players close season, has celebrate less than seven tribute to during months their match remaining on his former against deal with the club Al Gharafa. where he has boss Houllier spent his entire career. He is free AFP – GLASGOW to negotiate with rival clubs from Emili Rousaud Rangers manager Steven QSL: Al Sadd tighten grip at January. Gerrard has paid an emotional Former Barca vice-president Rousaud, who tribute to Gerard Houllier resigned this year out of protest at how the club (pictured) after his former was being run by then chief Josep Maria Bar- Liverpool boss died aged 73, the top in action-filled week tomeu, said Messi would accept a lower salary calling him a “special man”. if he could be convinced the club will return to Houllier passed away on winning ways. Monday and former Liverpool THE PENINSULA - DOHA QNB STARS LEAGUE STANDINGS AFTER ROUND 9 “In the club’s current situation Messi’s salary captain Gerrard joined the POS CLUB MATCHES WIN LOSE DRAW GF GA GD POINTS is not sustainable, so we’ll have to reach an football world in sending his Former champions and 1 Al Sadd 9 8 0 1 35 8 27 25 agreement with him. We will present an condolences. title-favourites Al Sadd 2 Al Ahli 9 6 2 1 13 13 0 19 attractive project to him,” Rousaud told Spanish Gerrard won the FA Cup, widened their gap on top of 3 Al Gharafa 9 6 3 0 23 15 8 18 newspaper AS yesterday. League Cup and UEFA Cup the table to six points as the 4 Qatar SC 9 5 4 0 13 8 5 15 “What matters most here is the sporting during Houllier’s six years at ninth round of the QNB Stars 5 Al Duhail 9 5 4 0 15 12 3 15 project. When Messi said he was leaving he ROUND 9 RESULTS Liverpool, where his current League concluded with 6 Al Rayyan 9 3 2 4 11 8 3 13 didn’t mention money. He has the highest salary Al Sadd 4-1 Al Gharafa Rangers assistant Gary McAl- plenty of excitement. 7 Al Sailiya 9 3 4 2 12 17 -5 11 in the world, no-one earns more than him, he lister also thrived under the The week saw plenty of 8 Al Wakrah 9 3 5 1 10 12 -2 10 Al Duhail 2-0 Al Arabi doesn’t want to leave because he earns too little. French coach. Houllier helped action, with as many as 16 9 Umm Salal 9 2 5 2 5 13 -8 8 Al Sailiya 1-3 Qatar SC “He wants to leave because he wants to win get Liverpool back on track goals being scored across six 10 Al Khor 9 1 4 4 7 14 -7 7 Al Rayyan 1-1 Umm Salal trophies. He referred to that recently when he after a difficult period, laying matches of which only one 11 Al Arabi 9 1 5 3 9 19 -10 6 Al Ahli 2-0 Al Kharaitiyat said: “The Champions League is not within our the foundations for the club’s ended in a draw. reach.” He wantswants a teamteam fufullll ofof tatalent.”lent. BBarcaarca 12 Al Kharaitiyat 9 2 7 0 6 20 -14 6 Al Khor 1-0 Al Wakrah 2005 Champions League Al Sadd now lead the were rankedd as tthehe triumph under his successor pack with 25 points fol- club with ththee Rafael Benitez. lowing their comfortable 4-1 points and slipped from 11th fourth victory in a row and from fourth to sixth place biggest rev-ev- “I would like to pay tribute victory over Al Gharafa in to bottom position. fifth overall, this time by a with 13 points following enues inn to him. Yesterday was a really the week’s marquee clash. Holders Al Duhail 3-1 margin over Al Sailiya in their third consecutive Europeana n Lionel tough day for myself and Gary The Wolves now have eight improved their position one another contest that evoked draw, this time playing out football by ththee Messi McAllister,” Gerrard told a victories and a draw, and place to fifth with 15 points keen interest. a thrilling 1-1 draw with 2020 Deloittette press conference on Tuesday. are still the only unbeaten as they scored a 2-0 victory In the process, Qatar SC Umm Salal, who stayed in Moneyy “Gerard obviously played team. over Al Arabi, who moved stormed into the top four ninth position with eight League butut a huge part in both our careers Meanwhile, Al Gharafa down one spot to 11th with with 15 points even as Al points. thee - and also our lives. remained on 18 points fol- six points. Sailiya stood seventh in the Khor registered an COVID-19 “So the news yesterday lowing their third defeat and Al Arabi and Al table with 11 points. important 1-0 win over Al pandemic was very difficult to take. It’s slipped to third place, as Al Kharaitiyat are both on six Both Qatar SC and Al Wakrah to move up from has oblit- a huge blow. Ahli moved up from third points, but the former were Duhail have 15 points, but the basement to 10th place with erated theirr “He was a special man, a spot with a 2-0 win over Al placed above on goal dif- former got better ranking on seven points. It was The finances. LastLast weeweekk caring man, a loving man. He Kharaitiyat. ference (-10 as against Al goal difference (+5 compared Knights’ first win in this the club announcednnounced was more than just a Al Ahli are on 19 points, Kharaitiyat’s -14). to Al Duhail’s +3). season. Al Wakrah, they were delayingdelaying manager.” Houllier also six adrift of Al Sadd, while Qatar SC made it big yet Last season’s runners- however, remained in eight salary paymentsments to managed Paris Saint Germain, Al Kharaitiyat stood on six again by notching up their up Al Rayyan went down position with 10 points. players. France, Lens, Lyon and Aston Messi wasas namednamed Villa before retiring in 2011. the top-earningearning Heart problems dogged his footballer in tthehe career. He was taken seriously Klopp impressed with Mourinho world by FrenchFrench ill during a game against Leeds newspaperaper at Anfield in October 2001 and L’Equipe earearlierlier required 11 hours of surgery. turning Spurs into ‘results machine’ this year, claimingaiming Houllier was told to stay an estimatedmated away from football, but his REUTERS – LONDON “He (Mourinho) showed obviously Quick wingers... A very offensive €8.2m ($9.97m)9.97m) passion for the game brought some comeback skills, if it was that. in (Tanguy) Ndombele, per month fromfrom him back to the Liverpool Jose Mourinho has proven he has Very impressive, what he has done then very strong behind. Barca. bench. Gerrard recognised that risen above criticism and bounced at Tottenham,” Klopp told That is football, you cannot be top of Rousaud,d, one burning ambition in Houllier, back to stake his claim as being a top reporters.reporters. thethe leagueleague withwith ononlyly coucounter-n of many ccandi-andi- but the ex-England midfielder manager after guiding Tottenham “The“The wayway ttheyhey pplaylay attacking.”attacking.” KloppKlopp is wawaryr of dates runningng in thethe also credits his former Hotspur to the Premier League thisthis year is reareallylly googood,d, Spurs’SpS urs’ goagoalscoringlscoring duodu of club’s presidentialpresidential manager with making him a summit, Liverpool’s Juergen Klopp he turnedturned tthemhem inintoto a SonSon HeunHeung-ming-min and KaneK election onn JJan.an. 24, aalsolso better person. said yesterday. results-machine...r esul ts-mach ine... -- whowho havehave a comcombinedbine 19 said he wishesshes to nnameame “Throughout your career, Mourinho’s Spurs have the best Counter-attackCounter-attack is not goals and 14 assists inin the Barca’s renovatednovated Camp different people look after you defensive record in the league and theirtheir onlyonly stratestrategy,gy, theythey leagueleague -- bbutut pointepointedd out they Nou stadiumm aafterfter MessiMessi,, a and shape you,” Gerrard said. are ahead of reigning champions Liv- areare a prproperoper footfoot-- werewere not the onlonlyy threatsthrea in move he believeselieves will helphelp “Gerard was at the fore- erpool on goal difference going into ballingballing sideside.. thethe sside.ide. attract sponsors.nsors. front of that in terms of Wednesday’s top-of-the-table clash “Harry“Harry Kane “Unfortunately,“Unfortunately, if we The electionction is beingbeing hheldeld shaping me into a better at Anfield. ddropsrops ((deep)deep) in a kkeepeep them ((SonSon and KKane) two monthshs earlierearlier thanthan player, a better person, a better Although Spurs have been wwayay RoRobertob erto quiet,quq iet, they are still a lloto of planned afterer Bartomeu leader. accused of being a defensive, FirminoFirmino hhasas reallyreally ggoodood players...playe resigned in October.October. “So I’ve got an awful lot to counter-attacking team, Klopp said done.done. withwith threatsthreats fromfrom a lot thank the man for and I’m there was more to their game than ofof areasareas onon the finding it really hard to come meets the eye and drew similarities Juergen Klopp ppitch,”itch,” KloppKl to terms with it right now." with his own side. added. Barca different club now, says Koeman

Arteta accepts responsibility for Arsenal’s poor form REUTERS – BARCELONA REUTERS – LONDON face and your body on the Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Barcelona fans and observers must accept that line. (second right) scoring an own goal against the team are no longer favourites to win every Arsenal manager Mikel “At the moment, I’m Burnley on Sunday. game, coach said yesterday, Arteta says he is ready to sorry but we have to take the adding that he is still struggling to accept certain “take the bullets” for the bullets. We are not winning attitudes to how the team should play. club’s dismal form in the football matches and you Barca face leaders Premier League and urged have to put your chest there on Wednesday hoping to build on their slender his players to put everything and (say) ‘hit me’ because 1-0 victory over Levante after suffering painful on the line to arrest their you have the right.” Arsenal defeats by Cadiz and Juventus and making their slump. are five points off the rele- worst start to a league season in 33 years. Arsenal suffered their gation zone but Arteta is con- “The pressure here is huge, everyone fourth defeat in five league fident that the tide will turn demands that you must win every game,” matches on Sunday after soon. Koeman told a news conference. going down 1-0 at home to “I want to think that we “But the club’s situation is different right Burnley, leaving them 15th are in a blip, losing football now and you have to accept that we can’t win in the standings with 13 matches makes me believe all the time.” points. that but we need to start to Koeman had a spiky exchange with a The club are off to their win,” Arteta added. reporter after the Levante game over bringing worst start to a season in Midfielder on defender Samuel Umtiti to protect Barca’s almost 40 years, leading to was sent off against Burnley lead late in the game, a move some observers questions over Arteta’s after a VAR review spotted felt was at odds with the club’s usual attacking future -- 12 months after he him grabbing Ashley Arsenal must trust in Arteta: Guardiola philosophy. replaced Unai Emery at the Westwood by the throat. Arsenal don’t have a better manager that can lead this club in this year He brought up the confrontation again to Emirates Stadium. When asked if Xhaka had illustrate the demands placed on him. “I feel the pressure all the apologised to his team and the next. I don’t have to give publicly my support because he has “I can understand criticism when you lose time. It will always exist,” mates, the Arsenal coach it. He’s one of the best managers I’ve ever worked with and seen. I’m four or five games but the other day I was crit- Arteta told reporters ahead said: “It’s been resolved pretty sure he will turn things around and perform like everyone icised for bringing on a defender in the last few of today’s league clash internally and this is all I can expects. When a club comes from not a good period, it needs minutes, and I could not understand that against Southampton. say. He has had tough times time. If I was part of the board, I would not have any doubts because we just wanted to win,” he added. “We have to face it being here and he’s not the only “But we cannot be happy with our results brave, fighting and no one one, there’s a lot of players about his capacity to put Arsenal in the place they deserve to so far, we’ve lost games we shouldn’t have lost. giving up. It’s not time to that have had rocky be: Manchester City manager We are trying to improve things and the result hide. It’s time to put your moments.” we got the other day was very important.” Sport WEDNESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2020 09 Games relay opens in 100 days with 10,000 torchbearers

AP — TOKYO include local residents who will want The postponed Olympics are to to see the torch go by. The relay will travel across Japan and involve 10,000 open on July 23, 2021, and are set to The torch relay for the postponed “The COVID-19 countermeasures runners and tens of thousands of officials. This does include the full complement of 11,000 Tokyo Olympics is to start in just over will be worked on continuously for the not include local residents who will want to see the athletes. The Paralympics will add 4,400 three months, and it faces the same torch relay; the audience, the torch- torch go by. more. Organisers of the Olympics and questions as the Olympics about being bearers as well as the officials who are torch relay are waiting until early next held safely during the coronavirus related to the program,” Yukihiko year to provide specific details about pandemic. Nunomura, vice director general of the The relay will last for 121 days and pass through 859 countermeasures for the coronavirus. Organisers said yesterday the relay Tokyo Olympic organizing committee, municipalities - pretty much as was planned before They have been encouraged about the is to begin on March 25 from the north- said yesterday during an on-line news the postponement. recent roll out of vaccines. eastern prefecture of Fukushima. This conference. The postponed Olympics are to open on July 23, “A few vaccines are now being dis- was also to have been the starting point The relay is sponsored by Toyota 2021, and are set to include the full complement of tributed and are actually being used,” for the relay before the Olympics were and Coca-Cola - two heavyweight Yuriko Koike, the governor of Tokyo, said postponed nine months ago. Olympic sponsors. There was some dis- 11,000 athletes. The Paralympics will add 4,400 in an interview . “Ït’s a ray of hope.” This coastal area of Japan was dev- cussion early about the possibility of more. Japan has seen new infections spike astated almost 10 years ago by an eliminating the event for cost and across the country in the last several earthquake and tsunami and the sub- safety reasons, but that idea seemed weeks. On Saturday new cases totaled sequent meltdown of three nuclear to be quickly discarded. “We wanted to simplify the go all over Japan and we will have a 3,041 - the first time above 3,000. reactors. The relay will last for 121 days and program as much as possible, trying to lot of participants.” The Tokyo Skytree, Japan, with a population of 125 The relay will travel across Japan pass through 859 municipalities - minimize the number of vehicles and the tallest tower in Japan, was lighted million, has handled the pandemic rel- and involve 10,000 runners and tens pretty much as was planned before the audience as well,” Nunomura said. in gold on Tuesday to commemorate atively well with just over 2,500 deaths of thousands of officials. This does not postponement. “As you know the torch relay will 100 days until the relay begins. attributed to COVID-19. ‘Bring it on’: Australia plot India’s downfall under Adelaide lights

AFP — ADELAIDE said would definitely play if he recovers from a mild con- Top-ranked Australia are cussion. “We’ve got tough deci- plotting revenge in their first sions to make, but tough deci- day-night Test against fellow sions are good decisions powerhouse India tomorrow, because it means there is com- as both teams grapple with petition for spots,” Langer India bowlers injuries and selection dilemmas. added. Virat Kohli’s men clinched Their all-star bowling attack their maiden series in Australia is set in stone with quicks Josh can take 20 in 2018-19, triumphing 2-1, but Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and the hosts were without leading Pat Cummins complemented by wickets even batsmen Steve Smith and David spinner Nathan Lyon, Aus- Warner who were serving year- tralia’s top wicket-taker in the without Ishant: long bans for ball-tampering. last series. Smith, the world’s number India’s captain India won the opening Test Rahane one batsman, is back and in Virat Kohli at Adelaide in 2018 largely on form, although in a massive does stretching the back of Pujara, who ground REUTERS — ADELAIDE blow Warner has been ruled out exercises during out 123 then 71 to set up a 31-run of the opening Test with a groin a training session win. He again shapes as key, India will miss experienced injury. at Adelaide Oval, particularly with Rohit Sharma paceman Ishant Sharma when “It’s a great rivalry... bring it yesterday. out injured. they take on Australia in the on,” Australia coach Justin Superstar skipper Kohli will upcoming four-test series but Langer said yesterday ahead of want to make his mark in his their bowling attack is more day one at Adelaide Oval, where only Test of the series, before than capable of taking 20 more than 20,000 fans -- 50 heading home for the birth of wickets against the hosts, vice percent capacity, due to coro- his first child. captain Ajinkya Rahane navirus restrictionsrictions -- areare Ajinkya Rahane, who will (pictured) said yesterday. expected. assume the captaincy when The 32-year-old Ishant, “We have a ververyy senior InIn contrastcontrast one day-night Test in Kolkata day-night cricket was “a Kohli leaves, is a lock in the who has played 97 Test team now and can’t wait to ggetet India,India, who last year. They thrashed Bang- challenge”. middle order alongside Vihari. matches, was a vital cog in the show on thehe road.”road.” wwereere llongong ladesh in just over two days, “The twilight time when the But their opening combi- India’s 2-1 victory against Aus- Despite losingsing rreluctanteluctant limiting their exposure to twi- lights are on, it (the ball) does a nation remains in flux. Prithvi tralia in their previous trip the last series,s, to light conditions where visibility little bit in the air and off the Shaw and Agarwal are the Down Under in 2018 but has Australia head eembracembrace can be an issue and the ball wicket.” current openers but Gill’s com- been ruled out of this series into the four- thethe concconcept,ept, tends to swing as the sun sinks. But Vihari added: “I feel as posed 65 under lights gave due to a side strain. Test remainremain India did enjoy a day-night a team we are very well selectors plenty to ponder. “We do really have a very showdown, novnovices,i ces, warm-up in Sydney at the prepared.” Like Australia, India have strong attack,” Rahane told where the pplayinglaying weekend, where Shubman Gill - ‘Tough decisions’ - what Sachin Tendulkar last reporters ahead of the opening Border- jjustust (65), Mayank Agarwal (61), Warner’s injury is one of a week called “a complete” day-night Test in Adelaide, Gavaskarr Rishabh Pant (103 not out) and series of setbacks Langer has bowling attack, despite missing which starts tomorrow. trophy and ICCC Hanuma Vihari (104 not out) all faced in recent weeks with con- the injured Ishant Sharma. “Yes we will definitely miss World Testest capitalised. cussed Will Pucovski, who was Headlined by Mohammed Ishant, (he) being a senior fast Championships h ip India’s two best batsmen, set to take his place, also ruled Shami and Jasprit Bumrah, bowler. But guys who are points are att stake, Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara, out. Marcus Harris has been Umesh Yadav is tipped for the here... they all are really good, with an appareapparentnt sat out the match but Vihari recalled as cover, but who third seamer’s spot with Ravi experienced and know how to advantage beforefore a ball is insisted their lack of pink-ball opens remains to be seen. Ashwin and Kuldeep Yadav bowl in these conditions. It is bowled. cricket would not hinder them. Incumbent Joe Burns is hor- competing to be the frontline all about getting that They aree the “We’ve played a pink-ball ribly out of form with Matthew spinner, with Ravindra Jadeja momentum. world’s mostt suc-suc- Test before, so they’re used to Wade firming as the best option injured. “I do believe that we have cessful team inin day- it... I’m sure being the profes- to replace him. After Adelaide, the series the attack to get 20 wickets,” night Tests, havingving played seven Steve Smith sionals they are, they’ll be very That would open the door moves to Melbourne for the tra- he said, adding that they had and won the lot,ot, including four well equipped,” he said, while for red-hot young all-rounder ditional Boxing Day Test, before yet to finalise their starting 11 in Adelaide. admitting getting used to Cameron Green, who Langer games in Sydney and Brisbane. for Adelaide. India’s regular captain Virat Kohli will return home after Adelaide for the birth of his first child, leaving Rahane De Grandhomme out of Pakistan Tests as NZ await Williamson in charge for the remaining REUTERS — WELLINGTON 134 runs in Hamilton. “He has it’s still a bit wait and see,” said Williamson’s first child is Meanwhile, the three Tests in the series. The a stress reaction in his right Stead. expected at any time, although rescheduled Women's 50-over middle-order batsman said he New Zealand all-rounder Colin foot,” Stead told reporters in The coach added that Stead said it was still a waiting World Cup in New Zealand will was not looking that far ahead. de Grandhomme has been Wellington yesterday. captain Kane Williamson was game at this stage. New start on March 4, 2022 with the “I believe in staying in the ruled out of the two-Test series “We still haven’t been able still exexpectedpected to jojoinin the ZealandZealand plplayay PakPakistani final to be held on April 3, the moment, staying in present,” against Pakistan with a foot to get him back to running and teamm forfor thethe secosecondnd andand in tthehe ffirst International Cricket Council he said. “Right now Virat is our injury, but there were still then obviously bowling as well. thirdd Twenty20Twenty20 TTwenty20wenty20 matchm said yesterday. captain.” hopes that first-choice spinner “Looking like hopefully a matchesches againsagainstt iinn AAucklanduckland on The tournament was orig- “Last time when we came Azaj Patel would be available, mid-January return.” Pakistanistan aafterfter hhee FridayFriday beforbeforee the inally scheduled for February- here in 2018 the wickets were coach Gary Stead said. Patel would spend time withdrewhdrew ffromrom tthehe second ggameam in March next year but was post- really challenging... but we Both missed the 2-0 series with the New Zealand ‘A’ side secondnd WestWest IndiesIndies HamiltonHamilton on poned due to the COVID-19 adjusted to those wickets sweep of West Indies, which in Whangarei to test the Test to be wiwithth hihiss Sunday and tthird pandemic. really well,” he said. was completed on Monday recovery of a lingering calf pregnantgnant match in NapierNa The same six cities and “As a batting unit we can with an innings and 12-run injury. wife.fe. ono venues will host the 31 matches adapt to any situation, any victory at the Basin Reserve “We are hoping he will be DeceDecemberm during the tournament, with condition. I am not too con- after New Zealand won the in contention for the Test 22.22. Hagley Oval in Christchurch to cerned about short balls, it’s first game by an innings and matches against Pakistan, but Kane Williamson host the final under the lights. all about having a positive mindset as a batsman.” Federer still not 100% fit, a doubt for Australian Open

REUTERSRE — LONDON losing to Novak Djokovic in this tight for the Australian Open,” see how tennis is doing.” whether it will start on Feb. 8,” season’s semi-finals at Mel- local media quoted Federer as The Australian Open is Federer said.“Of course, it would RogerRog Federer (pictured) said bourne Park. The winner of 20 saying at an awards ceremony scheduled for Jan. 18-31 but help if I had a bit more time.” hishis recovery from two Grand Slam singles titles, a record in Switzerland. there have been reports it could Federer was voted the best ssurgeriesurg on his left knee he shares with Rafa Nadal, said “The second knee operation be pushed back to a Feb. 8-21 Swiss athlete since 1950 at Sun- earlearlier this year has taken in October he was practising pain- was a huge damper, but in the window due to COVID-19 pro- day’s ceremony and said it was longerlong than expected and he is free and expected to return to the last six months there has been tocols. Even with a three-week an “incredible” honour. unsureunsu whether he will be ready circuit at the first Grand Slam of steady progress. delay it might not be enough for “I hope there is still some- for theth Australian Open. the year. “Let’s see how the next two Federer, who has won the Aus- thing to see from me next year." Federer,F who turns 40 in “I would have hoped that I months will unfold. I’ve been tralian Open six times. “It’s a “But if that was it, that would AugustAugu next year, has not played would be 100% in October. But doing a lot of physio and race against time for the Aus- have been an incredible ending a competitiveco match since I am still not today. It will be physical work lately, now let’s tralian Open. I’m curious to see for me at these Sports Awards."