FOOTBALL | Page 2 NNBABA | Page 4 Tabata Thomas extends stars in Celtic stay at victory over Al Rayyan Warriors

Friday, March 10, 2017 Jumada II 11, 1438 AH Australia say they GULF TIMES respect Kohli despite DRS row SPORT Page 7 FOOTBALL Miracle at Camp Nou as Barcelona thrash PSG Neymar scored from an 88th-minute free-kick and a penalty in the 91st before setting up Sergi Roberto’s clincher

AFP ter, were better positioned on the pitch Barcelona Barcelona’s Brazilian forward Neymar (R) and could do damage,” said the Spanish celebrates his team’s 6-1 victory over Paris coach. Saint-Germain FC at the Camp Nou stadium in “We had chances to make it 3-2 and arcelona were hailed as living Barcelona on Wednesday night. then the refereeing decisions, I don’t legends yesterday after Neymar know if they were right or not, but for helped the Spanish giants pull sure they damaged us. Then in the last off a Nou Camp miracle with a two minutes we lost everything we had Bdying minutes Champions League win recovered in the second-half.” over stunned Paris Saint-Germain. Despite Luis Suarez’s early opener, The Brazilian forward played the a Layvin Kurzawa own goal and Lionel game of his life as Barcelona made up Messi’s penalty, Barca looked down a 0-4 fi rst leg defi cit by winning 6-1 in and out when Edinson Cavani volleyed front of nearly 100,000 ecstatic fans at home what seemed to be the vital away the Camp Nou stadium for an astonish- goal for PSG. ing 6-5 aggregate triumph. However, Neymar restored Barca’s “You have become legends,” head- belief as he fi rstly fi red home a sensa- lined the Barcelona Sport daily while El tional free-kick two minutes from time Mundo spoke of the ‘miracle of a life- and then converted from the penalty time.’ spot. Neymar presided over a fi nal seven And substitute midfi elder Rob- minutes that plunged PSG into a waking erto became the unlikely hero when he nightmare. He scored an 88th-minute stretched to turn home Neymar’s sub- free kick and a penalty in the 91st before lime chip over the defence, leaving the setting up Sergi Roberto’s clincher in score 6-5 on aggregate as the crowd dis- the fi fth minute of injury time, sealing solved into ecstasy. the 6-1 win. “I threw myself at it with everything,” Roberto told BeIN Sports. “We left Paris The win recalled Manchester very down and now this is incredible. United’s injury-time double to “We were prepared for all this. The win the 1999 title against Bayern fans were like 10 extra players and in the Munich in the same stadium, and end this is all for them.” Liverpool’s victory in the 2005 Midfi elder Ivan Rakitic said Barca fi nal aft er being 3-0 down to AC had defi ed the critics after their fi rst- Milan at half-time leg humiliation in Paris three weeks ago. “It’s crazy. After Paris, many peo- The result sent the Spanish giants ple spoke hard about our team but to- storming into the quarter-fi nals and night was special, we made history,” the left PSG in tatters. Croatian told BT Sport. “I know that we have made history. A “We know we are the best team in the team like this can do anything,” Neymar world.” told BeIN Sports. As well as staying on course for a Germany’s football bible, Kicker, sixth title, the 1992, 2006, 2009, 2011 spoke of a “night of magic” while Bild title against Bayern Munich in the same “What defi nes this victory is the faith night went from bad to worse after he taken to hospital but his injuries were and 2015 European champions set a new said simply “Barcelona move moun- stadium, and Liverpool’s victory in the that the players and fans had.” hit a supporter with his sportscar after minor, police told AFP. record by reaching their 10th straight tains...” 2005 fi nal after being 3-0 down to AC The defeat raised questions over the fl ying back home early Thursday. Emery admitted his team went to quarter-fi nal. The French press scrambled to fi nd Milan at half-time. future of PSG coach Unai Emery, as club Around 30 supporters were waiting pieces in the fi nal minutes, but said they Barcelona defender Gerard Pique, words harsh enough to describe PSG’s “It is a diffi cult night to explain with president Nasser al-Khelaifi ominously for the players as they emerged from Le were badly aff ected by the two second- husband of Colombian pop star Shak- shame. words,” said Barca boss Luis Enrique, called it “very hard to accept”. Bourget airport outside Paris. half penalties given by German referee ira, predicted exuberant celebrations “Crushed, trampled on, humiliated,” who will leave the club at the end of the “This is a nightmare for everybody. In chaotic scenes, Italian interna- Deniz Aytekin. among the team’s fans. said Le Figaro newspaper while L’Equipe season. Is Unai Emery still credible? This is not tional Motta’s car accelerated as sup- “In the second-half it changed. The “I would say to the hospitals of Bar- sports daily said “Indescribable.” “It was a horror movie, not a drama, the moment to talk of this. After the porters and photographers obstructed (Messi) penalty got them off to a great celona to hire nurses,” said the father of The win recalled Manchester Unit- with a Camp Nou that I have seen very game, we are all upset,” said the Qatari. the road. One man banged on the ve- start, but I was already calmer because I two. “Tonight people will make a lot of ed’s injury-time double to win the 1999 few times as a player or coach. And PSG defender Thiago Motta’s hicle and was struck by the car. He was could see the team was responding bet- love.”

BOTTOMLINE win friendly Caixinha set to become Glasgow Rangers boss

AFP ment with Scottish Club Rang- ers about the transfer of head coach Pedro Caixinha. “Our club considered the fi - edro Caixinha is set to nancial benefi ts of Al Gharafa become the new Rang- especially when we know the ers coach after getting coach’s contract ends in 45 Pclearance from his Qa- days.” tari club Al Gharafa yesterday to The Doha-based side added move to Ibrox. in Arabic that “the manager’s A deal is expected to be com- desire to exploit the chance of pleted quickly between the moving to Rangers was stronger 46-year-old, Rangers and Qa- than our desire for him to stay”. tar Stars League club Al Ghara- Caixinha moved to Qatar in fa. 2015 after a spell with Santos Caixinha emerged as Rang- Laguna, a Mexican club with ers’ number one choice to re- close links to Celtic. place Mark Warburton last He previously managed week although he won’t be fully Uniao de Leiria and Nacional in in charge for Sunday’s clash his native Portugal after stints with Celtic. on the coaching staff with Action from the Qatar vs Azerbaijan friendly football match at the Al Sadd Stadium yesterday. Azerbaijan Al Gharafa confi rmed his Sporting Lisbon, Panathina- won 2-1 with goals from Terlan Quliyev (52) and Araz Abdullayev (63). Qatar’s only goal was scored by departure, posting on Twitter: ikos, Rapid Bucharest and Saudi Rodrigo Tabata in the 55th minute. The match was closed to the media. “Al-Gharafa reached agree- Arabia. Gulf Times 2 Friday, March 10, 2017 FOOTBALL

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE QSL ROUND-UP Tabata extends Dortmund can name Al Rayyan stay

By Sports Reporter for the Red Knights. Esteghlal are Doha currently top of B after picking price for Aubameyang up two wins from their opening two games of the campaign. efending Qatar Stars Lekhwiya will be heading League champions Al into the game on a high, as they Gabon striker’s three goals against Benfica sealed a 4-1 aggregate last 16 win Rayyan have confi rmed regained top-spot in the QSL that club Ro- standings following a com- drigoD Tabata has signed a new prehensive 3-0 victory over Al AFP Dortmund, Germany two-year contract extension Kharaitiyat in round 23 of the with the club. Al Rayyan revealed QSL season. the news via their offi cial social ierre-Emerick Aubameyang media accounts, confi rming that KHARAITIYAT ONLY says he had a point to prove af- the playmaker will now be under LOOKING UP THE TABLE ter scoring his fi rst Champions contract with the club till the Al Kharaitiyat defender Moham- League hat-trick, but it leaves summer of 2020. med Salam insists that his side is PBorussia Dortmund wondering how long The news of Tabata signing the looking forward to the fi nal three they can keep him. contract will be a major boost for games of the QSL season as a The Gabon striker’s three goals against Rayyan, with the Qatar interna- good opportunity for the Thun- Benfi ca in Dortmund on Wednesday tional striker considered one of ders to pull further away from night sealed a 4-1 aggregate last 16 win the side’s most consistent play- the relegation zone. and capped a man-of-the-match display. ers in recent years for the side. Salam stressed that his side The performance redeemed his fi rst-leg The veteran midfi elder is cur- are fi rmly aiming to push fur- howler when he missed four clear chanc- rently the Lions leading scorer ther up the QSL standings. “We es in a 1-0 defeat. this season with sixteen goals, have two big objectives, from the Three weeks ago in Lisbon, Dortmund and played a considerable part last games of the season the fi rst coach Thomas Tuchel hauled Aubam- in Al Rayyan lifting their fi rst of which is staying in the Qatar eyang off after his star missed a second- QSL falcon shield in twenty one Stars League, while the second is half penalty in a miserable fi rst-leg dis- year’s last season, winning the to fi nish as high as possible in the play. But the hot-shot was all smiles after QFA Player of the year award in QSL standings.” his second-leg hat-trick swung the last the process. Meanwhile, Rayy- “Kharaitiyat has suff ered this 16 tie Dortmund’s way. an began preparations for the season for a number of reasons, “I was very sad after the fi rst leg, made AFC Champions League clash the main reason has to be the many mistakes over the whole match against Persepolis which is set to change of our professional play- and wasn’t at all happy with my game,” take place next Tuesday, 14th of ers, who have failed to settle Aubameyang said after Dortmund’s im- March, at Al Sadd stadium. Head properly at the club,” noted the pressive victory. “So I wanted to show my coach Michael Laudrup oversaw defender when asked about his team-mates that I can play much better, his side training for the fi rst time sides form in the league. so I am delighted that we won and are following Rayyan’s 4-0 win over The QSL is taking a three week through.” Al Wakrah in round 23 of the QSL break for international football, Aubameyang has now scored seven season. and Salam is sure that can only times in his last three games and has benefi t his side. “The break will seven Champions League goals in as LEKHWIYA BEGIN CHAMPIONS help the side, it gives us a chance many matches this season. He is now on LEAGUE PREPARATIONS to rest and refocus for the last 28 goals for the season with Dortmund in Current QSL league leaders Le- push in the league. It’s also a the Champions League’s last eight for the khwiya have returned to train- good opportunity for us to make fi rst time since 2014. ing ahead of their crunch AFC sure all of our players are fi t and “It was a sensational performance,” Champions League clash against fresh for these big three games.” enthused Tuchel, delighted to see his star Iranian side Esteghlal Khuzestan. “We are still one of the teams asset back in form after a dip following Djamel Belmadi’s side is set to in the bottom of the league table, Gabon’s early Cup of Nations exit at the take on the Persian Gulf Pro but we are all very confi dent that start of the year. Aubameyang’s goals are League side on Tuesday the 14th we can get away from trouble, crucial for Dortmund’s aspirations this of March, away from home in now we need to double our ef- season as they look to repeat their 2013 what promises to be a stern test forts in the fi nal games.” Champions League fi nal appearance. “The goals he scores for us every week are important for the team’s success and we’re very happy to have him,” said Erik Durm, who set up Aubameyang’s third goal against Benfi ca. But how much long- er can Dortmund keep him? It’s been well documented that the 27-year-old made a promise to his grand- father, just before he died, that he would one day play for Real Madrid. And in two separate interviews in January, Aubam- eyang admitted he is considering leaving at the end of the season to ‘reach the next Borussia Dortmund’s forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Champions League level’ in his career. Round of 16, 2nd leg match against Benfica in Dortmund, western Germany on Wednesday night. (AFP) He also said the Spanish league ap- peals to him more than England’s Premier owski leave for arch-rivals Bayern in 2014 signs he could become their next super- minutes. At 18 years, fi ve months and 18 League, although he insisted he would on a free transfer, Dortmund will not star. days, he is the youngest Dortmund player never join German rivals Bayern Munich. want to make the same mistake twice. The midfi elder, only turns 19 in Sep- to score in the Champions League. His honesty prompted Dortmund’s boss- Their scouting department are clearly tember, was plucked from Pennsylva- His goal put Dortmund ahead for the es to tell him to cut out any exit talk. doing something right. nia in 2015 and nurtured in Dortmund’s fi rst time on aggregate against Benfi ca Aubameyang has a contract until 2020 Aubameyang, the Bundesliga’s top- academy. The senior US international and with the shackles off , Borussia ran with Dortmund, who can command a scorer with 21 goals, is currently battling was outstanding against Benfi ca, a con- riot. Aubayemang added two more goals much higher fee for him than the 13mn Lewandowski to be Germany’s hot-shot stant threat having only started because having preciously missed three clear euros they reportedly paid Saint-Etienne this season. Borussia bought Lewand- of injury to Germany winger Marco Reus. chances. “He is incredibly cool under in 2013. Estimates put his current market owski from Lech Poznan in 2010, then Pulisic set up Aubameyang’s fourth- pressure, he justifi ed our faith in him at value at 65mn euros. recruited Aubameyang in 2013, but now minute opener, then scored the Germans’ the right time,” said Tuchel of Pulisic, the Having had to watch Robert Lewand- US teenager Christian Pulisic is showing crucial second with a deft chip on 59 latest gem Dortmund has unearthed. Al Rayyan's captain Rodrigo Tabata

SPOTLIGHT Juventus aff air lingers ahead Enrique turns ‘mourning’ into miracle of Milan revenge mission AFP Milan: Leaders Juventus host AC Milan looking League respectively, also remain on course for Barcelona to avenge a shock Serie A reverse, and hoping the treble. Although that is a word goalkeeper the fallout from allegations linking the club Gianluigi Buff on doesn’t like to mention. “Treble to an organised crime figure does not spill on is a diff icult word for me to even pronounce !” irst came the “mourning” then the to the pitch. AC Milan stunned Juventus 1-0 in Buff on said Wednesday. opportunity for revenge, claimed October to hand the 32-times champions their “Of course we have to think big, have the vindicated outgoing Barcelona coach second San Siro defeat of the season after a 1-0 mentality of big clubs like Real Madrid or Bay- Luis Enrique after overseeing the reverse to Inter weeks earlier. ern Munich. But we have to keep our feet firmly greatestF comeback in Champions League his- But while the odds are stacked against the on the ground, and play with humility. If you tory by thrashing Paris Saint Germain 6-1. Rossoneri, 17 points off the pace and seven stay humble, no dreams are forbidden. Even if Despite Barca’s galaxy of stars, it was the behind Napoli in the third and last Champions we only end up winning the scudetto (league boss who was fi rst in the fi ring line when the League qualifying spot, Juve, at least off the title), we can’t be unhappy.” Catalans were torn apart 4-0 in the fi rst leg pitch, have gone on the defensive. Juventus will be hard to beat, even if Allegri in Paris three weeks ago. “Firstly we had to go Juventus president Andrea Agnelli last is without injured veteran defender Giorgio through the mourning,” said Enrique. “It was month was forced to deny reports club off icials Chiellini. Gonzalo Higuain, Paulo Dybala and hard, especially on one person. I don’t read it, were providing match tickets to a hardline Mario Mandzukic should assure a solid front but I am aware of it all.” ‘ultra’ fan with alleged links to Italy’s feared line that has helped Higuain hit 19 league goals In the aftermath, Enrique confi rmed the ‘Ndrangheta crime syndicate. so far, three behind Torino’s 22-goal leader long held suspicion that he won’t remain as But reports now say Agnelli will be sum- Andrea Belotti. coach next season after three highly success- moned by a Parliamentary Anti-Mafia Com- Milan coach Vincenzo Montella, meanwhile, ful years in charge. The timing of the deci- mission after Italian football federation (FIGC) has concerns over influential Spanish forward sion — made public in his post-match press Barcelona coach Luis Enrique celebrates after the dramatic win. (Reuters) off icial, Giuseppe Pecoraro, claimed Agnelli Suso, although he is expected to recover from a conference following another 6-1 win just had past “contact” with alleged ‘Ndrangheta thigh muscle problem to start alongside Carlos seven days previously against Sporting Gijon drid and thrashings of Sporting, Celta Vigo Enrique himself raced from the bench onto member Rocco Dominello. The ‘Ndrangheta is Bacca and Gerard Defoleu. — took most by surprise. and PSG by a combined score of 17-2. the fi eld. However, he didn’t quite allow him- an organised crime syndicate with origins in Suso has played 27 out of 27 games, only However, in removing the tension around “This system gives us more options, more self a joyful tear of celebration despite de- Calabria, but which has spread to the north of once coming off the bench, in Serie A so far. his future, Enrique changed the narrative and situations that pin back the opponents, more scribing the match like a “horror movie”. “I’m Italy. Prosecutors are investigating its reach in If unavailable, Lucas Ocampos will step in. gave his team the freedom from which they players that can participate,” Enrique con- not one to get emotional,” he added. “But I the Piedmont region, whose capital is Turin, In spite of the recent allegations surrounding made the seemingly impossible, possible. tinued. “The boss hasn’t had the best treat- enjoyed it as much as those who cried.” and Dominello is alleged to have had privileged Juventus, meeting Milan in what Milan CEO “This victory is dedicated especially to the ment,” said Barca defender Gerard Pique. In stepping down last week, Enrique cited relations with Juventus club off icials in con- Adriano Galliani said is a “fundamental fixture” Barca fans that had faith even after one day in “I would like him more than ever to get the the relentless rigours of the Barca job for his nection with the acquisition and distribution should eclipse any lingering feeling of contro- which the team was outplayed as was the case front pages tomorrow because with his plan need for a rest. of match and season tickets. Agnelli has flatly versy. He said: “It’s a fundamental fixture that in Paris,” added Enrique. and way of approaching this game he has Never have those demands arguably been denied the reports, posting a message on Twit- evokes great memories, from (Ruud) Gullit’s “This team has shown they know how to done most of the work. If at other times he so evident than the fact Enrique ended his ter which said: “I have never met mafia bosses.” goal that won us the championship to our win win because they have won a lot, but, when has been treated unfairly, today or tomorrow post-match press conference by highlight- The aff air may have cast a slight shadow over them in Manchester (in the final of the we have lost, we have also shown we know he deserves all the plaudits.” ing the need for Barca to raise the energy to over Juve as they maintain their bid for a 2003 Champions League).” how to lose, especially me.” Ironically, midfi elder turned right-back win at Deportivo la Coruna on Sunday to keep record sixth consecutive league title. But it FIXTURES (TIMES GMT) Enrique also played a vital role in recognis- Sergi Roberto had been one of those sacri- themselves top of La Liga. “The problem is should hardly aff ect Massimiliano Allegri’s men Today: Juventus v AC Milan (1945) ing his team’s shortcomings and changing his fi ced for Enrique’s new plan. Yet, Roberto this all starts again tomorrow and a return to on the pitch. Tomorrow: Genoa v Sampdoria (1945) formation. still proved to be the hero as he came off the training. I would have liked to rest, to let the At home, they haven’t conceded defeat or a On Sunday: Sassuolo v Bologna (1130), Chievo v Barcelona have played 4-3-3 since the days bench to prod home Neymar’s cross in the players celebrate with their families and loved draw all season in Serie A. Juventus, who have Empoli, Fiorentina v Cagliari, v Atalanta, of Johan Cruyff ’s reign in the eighties. Yet, in 95th minute to spark wild scenes of celebra- ones, who suff ered most what the team went first-leg leads over Roma and Porto in the Ital- Napoli v Crotone, Pescara v Udinese (all 1400), the past four games, a change to 3-4-3 has re- tion amongst the near 100,000 fans at the through, but we have to get up tomorrow and ian Cup semi-final and last 16 of the Champions Palermo v Roma (1945) sulted in a crucial La Liga win at Atletico Ma- Camp Nou. calm ourselves down.” Gulf Times Friday, March 10, 2017 3 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT IN BRIEF No reason to move Wenger will weigh fans’ WC from Russia: feelings over his future FIFA FIFA secretary general Fatma Speculation has grown Arsenal manager will quit when his deal expires at the end of the season Samoura yesterday said there were no reasons to move the AFP 2018 World Cup from Russia. London “The World Cup bid process was fair and there are no reasons to take away the event from rsene Wenger will take into Russia,” the top FIFA offi cial consideration the views of an- told media at the ceremony that gry Arsenal supporters when marked the 100 days before the he decides whether to remain Confederations Cup kick-off . atA the club beyond the end of this sea- The ceremony took place at son. Wenger endured calls for his res- Saint Petersburg’s newly-built ignation before and after Tuesday’s stadium, where construction humiliating 5-1 defeat against Bayern began in 2007 but was only fi n- Munich in the Champions League. ished in December after spiral- The Gunners’ heaviest home loss ling bills and missed deadlines. since 1998 ensured their seventh suc- The futuristic spaceship- cessive last 16 exit from Europe’s elite shaped 68,000-seater is set club competition, sparking furious pro- to hold the opening and fi nal tests from supporters. games of the Confederations It is not the fi rst time Wenger has Cup and will also stage World been subjected to vitriolic abuse in re- Cup matches in 2018. “Today’s cent years as the Frenchman’s failure to ceremony showed how much build a title-winning team since 2004 Russia wants to stage the best continues to frustrate fans. Confederations Cup and the Wenger, who has been in charge at World Cup in history. FIFA also Arsenal for 21 years, is yet to confi rm did everything possible to avoid he will accept a reported two-year con- a boycott and we succeeded in tract extension and speculation has that,” Samoura said. grown that he will quit when his present deal expires at the end of the season. BOURNEMOUTH FINED With Arsenal’s title OVER DOPING RULES BREACH challenge in tatters, the 67-year-old Bournemouth were fi ned plans to contemplate his future a while £35,000 ($42,500, 40,000 longer and the fans’ opinions will play a euros) after accepting a Football small role in that decision. Association charge for a breach Asked whether he would consider the of anti-doping rules yesterday. crowd’s displeasure when deciding his The Premier League outfi t faced future, Wenger said: “Yes — you con- sanctions after breaking regula- sider. It is not the most important factor tions on providing accurate to consider of course. It is diffi cult for ‘club whereabouts’ information. me to judge (the protests). Clubs must provide accurate “I’m not able to. I don’t work for my details of training sessions and image, I work for this club. How I look player whereabouts so they are is not really my problem. I have shown Arsene Wenger, who has been in charge at Arsenal for 21 years, is yet to confirm he will accept a reported two-year contract extension. (Reuters) available for drug testing at all since I have been here, I have shown I times. The FA conducts drug love this club and am loyal to this club. from reports of a training bust-up in- team that love each other the most that will do nothing to silence the critics. great football club with its best long- testing post-match, at train- I think I have made the right decisions volving Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez are the best on the pitch. When you go More fan protests are planned for the term interests at heart. ing sessions and at players’ and respect the values of this club. and his team-mates after the Chilean through disappointing results you have Lincoln game, but Arsenal chairman “Arsene has a contract until the end home addresses. Players can be “I have worked for 20 years to make was surprisingly dropped for last Sat- disappointment, but the best way to re- Chips Keswick has made it clear the of the season. Any decisions will be selected for a drug test in either our fans happy and when we lose games urday’s defeat at Liverpool. spond is to show how united we are on dissenting voices can’t be allowed to made by us mutually and communi- a random or a targeted basis. I understand they are not — at certain Wenger brushed off talk he has told that front. “It is our job to be competi- have a big infl uence of the situation. cated at the right time in the right way.” Last month, Manchester City times you have to accept diff erent opin- his players he is leaving soon and in- tive and at this club that means being up “We are fully aware of the attention Amid claims Alex Oxlade-Chamber- were fi ned the same amount and ions.” sisted his team still has a strong bond. there always. It’s about performing.” currently focused on the club and un- lain will ask for a transfer in the close- also given a warning following Arsenal winger Theo Walcott had “I think a lot has been said about that With non-league Lincoln visiting the derstand the debate,” Keswick said in season, Wenger said of the England similar breaches of the anti- hinted this week that there was some is exaggerated,” he added. “We have Emirates in tomorrow’s FA Cup quar- a statement. “We respect that fans are midfi elder: “I hope he stays here. He is a doping code. unrest amongst players and staff at the a good united group in terms of the ter-fi nals, Wenger will know the ex- entitled to their diff erent individual very promising player. He looks to have club. Walcott’s comments followed on group. In the past it’s not always the pected victory over inferior opponents opinions but we will always run this the values we want at this club.” SPURS DEFENDER DAVIES SIGNS NEW DEAL Tottenham defender Ben Davies FOCUS PREMIER LEAGUE signed a four-year contract ex- tension with the Premier League title challengers yesterday. Davies joined Tottenham from Swansea in July 2014 and has Bayern’s Alonso City fail to fi re in Stoke stalemate made 43 league appearances for Mauricio Pochettino’s side. The 23-year-old’s composed Manchester City’s Kelechi Iheanacho displays in second-placed Tot- confi rms June (centre) misses a chance to score against tenham’s last four league games Stoke City on Wednesday. (Reuters) have helped them keep in touch with leaders Chelsea in the title race. Davies’ extended deal retirement makes him the latest in a long line of Tottenham players to AFP sign new contracts this season, Berlin following Harry Kane, Dele Alli, Eric Dier and Jan Vertonghen in committing his future to the panish World Cup winner and double European champion north London club. Xabi Alonso, 35, confi rmed yesterday that he will retire at the end of the season when his Bayern Munich contract expires. TRUMP BAN COULD HIT “It was not an easy decision but I think it’s a good time,” WORLD CUP BID: FIFA CHIEF SAlonso said. “I want to fi nish my career at the highest level, and Bay- American President Donald ern is the highest level,” added the 2010 World Cup winner. Trump’s controversial travel ban Defensive midfi elder Alonso is the oldest member of the Bayern could make it impossible for his team, but can still command a fi rst-team place under Carlo Ance- country to host the 2026 World lotti alongside Chile’s Arturo Vidal. Bayern are into the Champions Cup, FIFA president Gianni League’s quarter-fi nal draw on March 17 and are bidding to repeat Infantino warned yesterday. their 2013 treble of European, Bundesliga and German Cup titles. The United States is the “FC Bayern are grateful to a man and a great player, who has been favourite to stage the expanded superb for Bayern both on and off the pitch,” said club chairman Karl- 48-team tournament in 2026, Heinz Rummenigge. Alonso arrived in Bayern for the 2014/15 season either on its own or as part of after playing for Liverpool and Real Madrid. a joint-bid with neighbours He was part of two historic Champions League title wins. He played Mexico and Canada. But with in Liverpool’s 2005 fi ght-back in Istanbul and was involved in Real AFP to provide an obstacle and Diouf’s shot injury time, Otamendi’s long ball looked Trump seeking to ban nationals Madrid’s 2014 triumph when they won ‘la Decima’ — the European Manchester, United Kingdom lacked the power to beat Willy Caballero in about to be gathered by Kevin De Bruyne from several Muslim-majority Cup for the tenth time. goal. Another good attack saw Saido Bera- with just the keeper to beat but the ball ran countries, Infantino says the US So far with Bayern, he has won two Bundesliga titles and one Ger- hino, starting his fi rst game for Stoke since beyond his reach. may not even be in a position to man Cup title with Bayern with the Bavarians currently dominating anager Pep Guardiola saw his his controversial transfer from West Brom, Guardiola needed just 13 minutes of submit a bid. both competitions. Alonso has won 16 titles for clubs and country, in- team squander the opportu- play in Ramadan Sobhi, who might have the second half to have seen enough and “Mr Trump is the president of cluding the 2010 World Cup and the 2008 and 2012 European champi- nity to gain ground on Premier won a penalty had he gone down under brought on Silva to replace the ineff ec- America and as such I have huge onships with Spain, making 114 international appearances. League leaders Chelsea in a a challenge from Nicolas Otamendi, but tive Navas. Indeed, the situation might respect for what he does,” Infan- He retired from international duty in August 2014. Confi rmation Mdisappointing 0-0 draw with Stoke City at played on and had his cross cut out by the have been even worse but for a solid piece tino told reporters in London. of Alonso’s retirement means the German giants will lose signifi cant the Etihad on Wednesday night. goalkeeper’s outstretched leg. of defending from Otamendi who blocked “He’s in charge, together experience for next season. Club captain and ex-Germany skipper It was a strangely subdued performance Soon after Phil Bardsley’s free-kick into an attempt from Berahino soon after the with his government, to take Philipp Lahm has also confi rmed he will hang up his boots in June. by City, the result perhaps of Guardiola the City area picked out the unmarked restart. decisions that are best for his having opted to rest David Silva and Ra- Bruno Martins Indi although the big Stoke City’s frustration was growing, with country. That’s why he has been heem Sterling from his all-star cast of at- defender was unable to control the ball. As Leroy Sane cautioned for simulation as he elected. We are now in the proc- tacking talent. But given the fact that City the half wore on City began to exert more went to ground on the edge of the Stoke ess of defi ning the bid require- had the chance to close the gap to Chelsea control but without providing visiting area although the German almost made ments. In the world there are to eight points and move above Tottenham keeper Lee Grant with too many moments amends on 54 minutes when he led a coun- many countries who have bans, into second place, Guardiola’s players were of concern. ter and set up Sergio Aguero for a shot travel bans, visa requirements well below their best. Aleksandar Kolarov came closest to which hit Pieters and fl ew over. and so on and so forth. In fact, the best chances of the fi rst pe- scoring for City in that period with a su- After Silva’s introduction City seemed “It’s obvious when it comes riod fell to Stoke, led by former City man- perbly judged free-kick which rose and to have more attacking threat with the to FIFA competitions, any team, ager Mark Hughes, who were looking to dipped over the Stoke wall and required Spaniard starting a move which ended including the supporters and of- improve on a record of defeats in fi ve of Grant to punch away to safety. But all too with De Bruyne crossing to the penalty fi cials of that team, who qualify their last six away games. They could have often City seemed to over-complicate spot from where Sane’s mis-hit shot failed for a World Cup need to have been well on the way to that target after their approach play and, with Silva watch- to test Grant. access to the country, otherwise just fi ve minutes when Eirk Pieters crossed ing from the bench and the rested Sterling City continued to improve with Yaya there is no World Cup. That is from the left wing and Gael Clichy slipped not even in the squad, lacked their usual Toure shooting over, Sane almost turning obvious. The requirements will as he attempted to mark Mame Biram Di- cutting edge. in Aguero’s touch at the far post and Silva be clear. And then each country ouf on the six-yard line. Jesus Navas had a rare chance to provide playing a superb one-two with Fernand- can make up their decision, Fortunately for the City defender and quality service but his near-post cross was inho and sending a low shot narrowly wide whether they want to bid or not the home supporters, Clichy still managed well handled by Grant and, in fi rst-half of the post. based on the requirements.” Gulf Times 4 Friday, March 10, 2017 SPORT

GCC WOMEN’S GAMES

Athletes pose on the podium after winning medals during the 5th edition of the GCC Women’s Games at the Qatar Sports Club in Doha yesterday. The event, which kicked-off on Tuesday will go on till March 17, with the participation of 891 athletes and off icials representing four Gulf countries — Bahrain, Oman, UAE and the host country, Qatar.PICTURES: Anas al-Samaraee

A Qatari athlete competes in the long jump event.

A Qatari sprinter in action at the Qatar Sports Club yesterday.

NBA GOLF Manassero in Thomas stars in Celtics clubhouse lead victory over Warriors at Indian Open

AFP turn to the course at 7am today ‘We are just a bunch of competitors. We wanted to win to end the losing streak’ New Delhi to conclude their fi rst rounds following a 90-minute suspen- AFP Kevin Durant (sprained left knee), who sion in the afternoon due to the Los Angeles tallied 23 points to lead the Warriors to taly’s Matteo Manassero threat of lightning. a lopsided win earlier in the season at took the clubhouse lead af- Malaysia’s Danny Chia and Boston. Durant, who is expected to be ter carding a four-under 68 Angelo Que of the Philippines saiah Thomas has made peace and evaluated again in three weeks, spoke to on a rain-hit yesterday at the battled to shoot matching 70s the Boston Celtics were able to turn reporters before the game. IHero Indian Open in New Delhi. to stay within striking reach of things around with another emphatic “I hurt my knee. A lot of guys go England’s David Horsey Manassero but early favour- win in Oakland. Boston standout through this,” he said. “It is nothing to be topped the leader board with ite Anirban Lahiri of India, the IThomas scored 25 points as the Celt- concerned about. I got a boo boo play- fi ve-under but could only com- Asian Tour number one in 2015, ics snapped a two-game losing skid on ing basketball.” Klay Thompson scored plete 15 holes after an hour’s required two closing birdies to Wednesday with a 99-86 victory over the 25 points and Stephen Curry scored 23 play was lost due to rain in the salvage a four-over 76. Golden State Warriors in a battle between for the Warriors. “We’re in a tough spot national capital. Manassero, the Two 19-year-old Indians, one two NBA title contenders. in the schedule, obviously, and with KD’s youngest winner in European an amateur and the another a ris- “We are fi ghters. We compete,” said injury,” said Warriors coach Steve Kerr. Tour history after clinching the ing professional, gave the Indians Thomas. “We are just a bunch of com- Elsewhere, Paul George scored 21 Castello Masters in 2010 at 16 fans something to cheer about petitors. We wanted to win to end the los- points, Thaddeus Young had 18 points years of age, held a one-shot ad- on a tough opening day. Rigel ing streak.” The Celtics, who are fi ghting and eight rebounds and CJ Miles added vantage ahead of Eddie Pepperell Fernandes, an amateur, and the to hold onto the number two seed in the 15 points, and the Indiana Pacers defeated of England. teen professional, Shubhankar East, had lost two straight heading into the Detroit Pistons 115-98. The 23-year-old Manassero Sharma, who has been recover- their showdown with Golden State, the With the victory, Indiana avoided slip- shot seven birdies during an im- ing from illness, were among the Western Conference’s top team. ping to.500 and completed a four-game pressive run of play as he stood leading Indian scorers, who had To add to their diffi culties, leading season series sweep of Detroit. above many top golfers at the fi nished their fi rst round at the scorer Thomas went public with criti- “It also was important tonight that we Delhi Golf Club. World number Hero Indian Open 2017, as both cism of coach Brad Stevens’ coaching got off to a good start, and then we really 26 and Manassero’s compatriot returned even par. style after Monday’s loss to the Los Ange- got it going in the third quarter,” said In- Rafa Cabrera Bello languished at Even par was the best among les Clippers. But the Celtics had reason to diana coach Nate McMillan. “Our off ence tied 49th with one-over 73 af- those who had fi nished their believe they can have success in Oakland. was solid, we moved the ball well and we ter having a forgettable day with fi rst 18 holes and that was also After all, on their last visit 11 months shot it well. We had a lot more energy three double bogey’s. India’s and the card for Rahil Gangjee. An- ago, they snapped Golden State’s 54- than we had in our loss Monday night at defending champ SSP Chawra- other Indian Chiragh Kumar was game home winning streak. Charlotte.” sia, who was playing alongside one-under through 10 holes. The Winning takes care of everything and The Pacers were coming off three loss- Horsey, made signifi cant strides event, sanctioned by the Asian Thomas was full of praise for Stevens on es on a fi ve game road trip during which at one-under after just complet- Tour and European Tour for the Wednesday. “The coach is going to make they lost at Miami, San Antonio and ing 15 holes in fading light. third straight year, carries an en- his decisions. I believe in the coach. I Charlotte. Indiana now has a two-game A total of 66 players will re- hanced prize purse of $1.75mn. trust every decision he makes and tonight lead over Detroit for the No.6 playoff spot we won,” Thomas said. in the Eastern Conference. Boston took charge after a dunk by In Miami, Dion Waiters scored 24 Draymond Green that gave the Celtics an points and Goran Dragic added 22 points 80-79 lead in a game that featured eight and 10 assists to lead the Miami Heat to lead changes and eight ties in the fi rst 41 Golden State Warriors' Stephen Curry (centre) drives the ball around Boston Celtics' a 108-101 win over the Charlotte Hornets minutes. Jae Crowder hit three-pointers Kelly Olynyk (right) during the NBA game on Wednesday. at AmericanAirlines Arena. Dragic posted on consecutive possessions during a 15-0 his fi fth double-double of the season as fourth-quarter surge that helped propel 41-24 on the season and won for the sec- The road-weary Warriors fell to 52- Miami continued its hot streak, winning the Celtics to victory. ond time in four games on its Western 12 as they lost for the third time in fi ve for the 20th time in 24 games. The Heat “We didn’t want to turn the ball over. trip. That allowed the Celtics to remain games and saw their lead over red-hot have won three straight, including two We believed in our guys and they did the a game ahead of the Washington Wizards San Antonio atop the West cut to 1 1/2 wins over the defending league champion job,” Thomas said. Boston improved to in the battle for the No. 2 playoff position. games. Golden State played without Cleveland Cavaliers. Gulf Times Friday, March 10, 2017 5 SPORT

RUGBY SPOTLIGHT Dulin, Sanconnie bolster France Jones still smarting for Italy clash

AFP without pressure and give free Marcoussis, France fl ow to his talent despite it be- ing his fi rst cap.” Fly-half Francois Trinh-Duc rance coach Guy Noves starts on the bench as he re- at ‘no-ruck’ Italy yesterday named full- turns from four-months side- back and lined with a broken arm. The newcomer Fabien San- back row has been overhauled ‘A hundred percent I thought that we dealt with it fantastically well’ connieF among four changes with Vakatawa moving to wing for this weekend’s Six Nations and starting on rugby clash in Italy. the bench. Lock Sébastien Va- back Dulin has haamahina is recovering from a been absent since the Novem- back injury and will be replaced ber Tests after testing posi- by Le Devedec, who got the nod tive for a banned substance, ahead of Paul Jedrasiak. but returns in place of Scott Scrum-half Antoine Du- Spedding, who struggled dur- pont, called up on Wednesday ing France’s 19-9 defeat to as possible cover for Maxime Ireland last time out. Sancon- Machenaud, could get his fi rst nie, 22, replaces Toulon fl anker start like Sanconnie at the Sta- who was ruled dio Olimpico. Italy are head- out with an ankle injury. ing for another wooden spoon “Scott needs a bit of breath- after consecutive defeats to ing space even if our confi - Wales, Ireland and England. dence (in him) remains the But Noves said they would not same,” said Noves, who also be taking the Italians lightly. named wing “We’re not really in a posi- and lock Julien Le Devedec tion to boast, to do a bit like the among his four changes. English, to look down on Italy. “He (Spedding) is well aware, “Our results don’t allow us his last two matches weren’t to do this.” Italy led England up to his usual standard,” said 10-5 at half-time in Twicken- Noves of the 30-year-old ham before falling 36-15. “Es- South Africa-born fullback. pecially after their perform- “It was logical to allow Brice ance in England, nothing is to join us despite these little written in advance and it will be problems (banned substance) a very hard match like the oth- recently. We consider he is ers,” added Novès. It is the 40th ready to step into this position.” time the sides will meet, France Dulin had not been selected winning 36 of their previous after traces of the banned sub- encounters and Italy three. Ita- stance higenamine were discov- ly’s last win over France came at ered in a drugs test. Higenamine the Olimpico in 2013. is used to treat asthma and is France team also a fat burner which can be (kick-off 1330 GMT): found in food supplements. Brice Dulin; , Noves said he was expecting Remi Lamerat, Gael Fickou, England head coach Eddie Jones addressing a press conference yesterday. (Reuters) Sanconnie to bring freshness Virimi Vakatawa; Camille to a team which lost to England Lopez, ; Kevin ment for a leg injury. AFP match, that didn’t stop Jones Watson returns for Scotland against England and Ireland but beat Scotland. Gourdon, , Bagshot, United Kingdom, comparing Italy’s tactics to un- Jones ‘jokingly’ tried to ex- “He has sort of the same Fabien Sanconnie; Yoann derarm in cricket and Hamish Watson was the lone change to the Scotland XV announced plain the injury by saying Farrell profi le as Charles (Ollivon) — Maestri, Julien Le Devedec; Ra- saying referee Romain Poite had yesterday by coach Vern Cotter for this weekend’s Calcutta Cup had run into his dog. Things be- very clever in touch, big, which bah Slimani, ngland may be on the looked “fl ustered”. clash against England at Twickenham. came even more curious when, is indispensable in this posi- (capt), brink of equalling a But when it was gently sug- The Edinburgh back-row takes the place of the injured John Hardie within moments of saying Far- tion,” said Noves. Replacements: Christopher world record and within gested to Jones, in a news confer- (knee), whom he replaced in the 25th minute of Scotland’s 29-13 win rell was “doubtful” to face Scot- “Our expectations are what Tolofua, , Eddy Ben sight of retaining their ence broadcast live on Thursday, over Wales at Murrayfield last month. land, Jones added he would be you would expect from a young Arous, Paul Jedrasiak, Bernard SixE Nations title but coach Ed- that ideally his players would “alright” for the game. player — total commitment Cornell du Preez takes Watson’s place on the bench and will make Le Roux, , die Jones was in an oddly chippy react more quickly if confronted his Test debut if he comes on at Twickenham. Scotland are seeking “Owen could be a doubt. He’s in battle against a very strong Francois Trinh-Duc, Yoann mood yesterday. again with more unusual tactics, their first win at England’s headquarters since 1983 and a first Triple got a bad leg, so he couldn’t fi n- Italian team at this position. Huget. Victory over Scotland in Sat- he bristled at the suggestion they Crown since 1990. They will arrive in London having already beaten ish training. He’ll be alright,” “Our hope is that he can play Coach: Guy Noves (FRA) urday’s Calcutta Cup clash at had been out-smarted by Italy. both Ireland and Wales at Murrayfield this Six Nations, winning two Jones said. “My dog was running Twickenham will see England “There was someone confused of their opening three games in the Championship for the first time around and he ran into it.” draw level with world champions in the fi rst half and it wasn’t our since 2006. When it was pointed out to USA to host Czechs at Tampa Bay in Fed semi New Zealand’s record of 18 suc- players,” said Jones, in another But England are just one win away from equalling world champions Jones he had just given confl ict- cessive Test wins by a ‘tier one’ apparent reference to Poite. New Zealand’s record of 18 successive Test victories by a leading ing answers, he snapped back: Three-time defending champion Czech Republic will play host or leading nation. “A hundred percent I thought rugby union nation. “Yeah, but I think he’ll be al- United States on an outdoor clay court near Tampa, Florida, in Jones has overseen 16 of those that we dealt with it fantasti- “We have another two games to go in this Championship and this right. Is that OK?” next month’s Fed Cup semi-finals, the US Tennis Association 17 consecutive victories and has cally well,” added Jones, who next one is obviously pretty important,” said Cotter in a Scot- Jones, asked about possible announced. won all his matches as England also cancelled his usual separate tish Rugby Union statement. “There’s a lot to play for and several alternatives, insisted: “We’ve The April 22-23 tie will be staged at the Saddlebrook Resort north coach since taking charge fol- pre-match briefi ng for national reasons why we should be able to get up for this game,” the New got plenty of back-ups. of Tampa with the winner advancing to November’s final against lowing the team’s fi rst-round newspapers. Zealander added. “Ben Te’o can play 12, he’s an either Switzerland or Belarus in the women’s team competition. exit on home soil at the 2015 exceptional player. There’s no The Americans have won the trophy a record 17 times, but not World Cup. ‘Spirit of the game’ risk for us. since 2000, while the Czechs have captured five of the past six Yet the fall out from their Jones, speaking at England’s newspapers suggested power- “The Daily Telegraph picked “We’ve got some great goal Fed Cup titles, including a 3-2 finals triumph last year at most recent success, a 36-15 win Bagshot training base, south- house back-row Billy Vunipola him for us and we decided we’d kickers - George Ford.” France. at home to Italy a fortnight ago, west of London, responded to a might go straight back into the change our minds!,” joked Jones. England have yet to fi nd them- “Saddlebrook is an iconic tennis venue and we are very pleased clearly still irked the Australian. question about possible Scottish starting XV following a knee in- But while Jones could be for- selves ahead at half-time this that Fed Cup will be showcased here for the first time,” USTA Jones was angered by Italy’s innovation by implicitly renew- jury after his name appeared in given for having fun over Vuni- Six Nations but an unconcerned president Katrina Adams said. “It will be a perfect site for our Fed ‘no ruck’ ploy which left his ing his post-match criticism of what looked to be a team line-up pola’s position, his comments Jones said: “We’ve been ahead at Cup matchup against the Czech Republic.” team utterly bemused in a fi rst Italy coach Conor O’Shea. on a whiteboard by the side of a regarding an injury to fi rst- the 80th minute mark and that’s Karolina Pliskova, last year’s US Open runner-up, and Lucie Safa- half that fi nished with the visi- “Scotland’s a well-coached practice pitch. choice goal-kicker Owen Farrell the only time that counts. rova, ranked second in the world in doubles, are likely to play for tors’ enjoying a shock 10-5 lead. side and Vern Cotter is a good Vunipola, however, was were bizarre. “It’s like starting a 100 metre the Czechs. England eventually got their rugby coach so they will partici- among the replacements come Farrell, named at inside cen- race – you can be ahead at the The US women own a 9-2 edge over the Czechs in their Fed Cup act together in a second half pate in the spirit of the game,” he Thursday’s team announcement tre, was withdrawn from Eng- 10-metre mark but you’ve got rivalry, including a 3-2 victory in their most recent matchup in where they scored fi ve tries. said. by Jones, with Nathan Hughes land’s fi nal training session on to be in front at the 100-metre the 2009 semi-finals. The Czechs last beat the Americans in 1985. But, immediately after the Earlier this week several retaining the No 8 shirt. Thursday after receiving treat- mark.”

FOCUS No changes, no excuses: Wales coach McBryde

AFP they’re deserving of that oppor- “Perhaps this is a new expe- Cardiff tunity and this is their shot at it. rience for this squad of players, “For myself, personally, there but they’ve got to come through is still a level of hurt there from it, they’ve got to knuckle down. much-criticised Wales the Scottish defeat, and I am sure “Until we do get that victory, team are ready to the players are feeling that as obviously that pressure is going bounce back against well, so we need to react in a pos- to mount considerably. It’s in ad- “favourites” Ireland itive manner against what will be versity that you show your true todayA after their Six Nations ca- a very confi dent Ireland team. colours. Hopefully we’ll step up pitulation against Scotland, ac- McBryde, who played hooker to the plate tomorrow night.” cording to coach Robin McBryde. for Wales alongside Howley and Ireland, McBryde admit- Fans, pundits and media assistant coach Neil Jenkins, ted, were “a pretty good outfi t. turned on Wales players and added: “We’re in a goldfi sh bowl They’ve had a great season, re- coaches after they leaked 20 un- in Wales and you’re aware of it. If ally, beating the All Blacks”. answered points in their defeat the national team doesn’t suc- “They have got aspirations by the Scots, which followed a ceed you’re going to get a fair bit for the title. They have got a big loss to England after an opening of fl ak and that’s life, nothing fi nish against England next victory over Italy. changes. week. But interim head coach Rob “We’ve just got to be at our Howley refused to bow to pres- Roll up your sleeves best in whatever they throw at sure for wholesale changes and “Rob Howley, Neil Jenkins us, and just have that level of picked an unchanged team to and myself, anybody involved composure when we’ve got the play the Irish, victory for whom in Welsh rugby in the 1990s, we ball, and the accuracy as well.” would set up a Six Nations title know what it’s like. You know McBryde argued that there decider against England in Dub- there’s no other way through it was more pressure on Ireland as lin on March 18. other than just rolling up your they remain in the hunt for the “We hope they feel a bit gal- sleeves and going at it again, championship, but he added that vanised by the fact they get to go maybe a little smarter or learn- Wales needed to perform, with again and step up their perform- ing from your mistakes. World Rugby ranking points to ance,” McBryde said yesterday. “As far as I am concerned, be garnered before the draw for “Because there’re no chang- when you are taking part in in- the 2019 World Cup. es, there’re no excuses. We’ve ternational rugby as a player, as “Undoubtedly they are fa- shown faith in them as coach- a coach, you are under constant vourites coming into the game es, we feel there’s a lot more to pressure. Maybe a little bit more tomorrow night. We’ve got to go come from that group of players, so in Wales. at them right from the word go.” Wales’s Forwards Coach Robin McBryde during a press conference in Cardiff yesterday. (AFP) Gulf Times 6 Friday, March 10, 2017 CRICKET

FIRST TEST SPOTLIGHT recall Kamran, Shehzad in Herath, Perera put preliminary squad

AFP the event in India. But Shehzad fi nished as top scorer in the National One- day Cup with 653 runs which akistan recalled Kam- earned him a recall. Sri Lanka in control ran Akmal and Ahmed The preliminary squad will Shehzad in a prelimi- train under head coach Mickey nary squad for this Arthur in a camp in Lahore Pmonth’s tour of the West In- from March 11-17 before leav- dies, selectors said yesterday. ing for the Caribbean three The 35-year-old Kamran days later. has been reminding selectors Pakistan play the fi rst of his scoring abilities for well international in on rain-hit day over a year scoring 1,035 in the Barbados on March 26. That premier fi rst class tournament will be followed by three one- and another 361 in the Nation- day internationals and as ‘Our boys stuck to the plan extremely well and win the first session’ al One-day Cup in the 2016-17 many Tests. season. Preliminary squad: Ahmed Kamran, who played the last Shehzad, Mohamed Hafeez, of his 154 one-day internation- Fakhar Zaman, Azhar Ali, als in 2013 and his last Twen- Shan Masood, Babar Azam, ty20 in 2014, also fi nished as Shoaib Malik, Umar Akmal, top run-getter with 353 runs Asif Zakir, Saad Ali, Sarfraz in the , Ahmed, Kamran Akmal, Fahim which fi nished on Sunday. Ashraf, Hussain Talat, Ammad Also recalled in the 31-man Butt, Mohamed Amir, Hasan squad is opener Ahmed Sheh- Ali, Wahab Riaz, Rahat Ali, zad who was part of Pakistan’s , Sohail Khan, squad for last year’s World Junaid Khan, Sohail Tanveer, Twenty20 held in India. Mohamed Abbas, Usman Shin- Shehzad was dropped af- wari, Usama Mir, Imad Wasim, ter former head coach Waqar Mohamed Asghar, Shadab Younis described him as an Khan, Mohamed Nawaz, undisciplined player following Yasir Shah.

Sri Lankan spinner Rangan Herath (2R) celebrates with teammates after he dismissed Bangladesh’s Mushfiqur Rahim during the third day of the opening Test in Galle yesterday. (AFP)

AFP Herath bowled his Bangla- took the key of opening Galle, Sri Lanka desh counterpart Mushfi qur on SCOREBOARD batsman Soumya Sarkar for 71 Kamran Akmal the stroke of the tea break for 85 after Bangladesh resumed the after the latter took their score Sri Lanka 1st innings 494 (K. Mendis 194, A. Gunaratne 85, N. day on 133 for two. pinners Rangana Her- past the 300 mark. Dickwella 75, D. Perera 51; Mehedi Hasan 4-113) Bangladesh lost their fi rst ath and Dilruwan Perera Perera broke Mushfi qur’s Bangladesh 1st innings (overnight 133-2) wicket when overnight batsman shared six be- stubborn partnership with Me- Tamim Iqbal run out ...... 57 Sarkar top-edged Lakmal’s ris- tween them to help Sri hedi when he trapped the young Soumya Sarkar c Kumara b Lakmal ...... 71 ing to Lahiru Kumara at LankaS take command of the fi rst all-rounder plumb leg-before fi ne leg. Mominul Haque lbw b Perera ...... 7 Test against a struggling Bang- for 41 runs. Mushfiqur Rahim b Herath ...... 85 Soumya added just fi ve runs ladesh on a rain-hit day three in The spinner also took the Shakib Al Hasan c Dickwella b Sandakan ...... 23 to his overnight 66, his 137-ball Galle yesterday. wicket of Taskin Ahmed off the Mahmudullah b Kumara ...... 8 knock containing eight fours The visitors, replying to Sri next ball with a successful re- Liton Das c Gunaratne b Herath ...... 5 and a six. Lanka’s fi rst innings total of 494, view after his appeal for lbw was Mehedi Hasan lbw b Perera ...... 41 “If we had given 100 per cent were all out for 312 on the third turned down by umpire Marais Taskin Ahmed lbw b Perera ...... 0 earlier, then we have to give 120, day, trailing the hosts by a mas- Erasmus. Subashis Roy ...... 0 150 per cent to bring the match sive 182 runs. Mushfi qur and Mehedi’s ef- Mustafizur Rahman c Mendis b Herath ...... 4 back in our favour to win,” Sou- Herath took the fi nal wicket forts came after Bangladesh lost Extras (lb6, w3, nb2) ...... 11 mya said. just two balls into the last ses- four wickets in the opening ses- Total (all out, 97.2 overs) ...... 312 Shakib Al Hasan contributed sion before rain stopped play, sion that had threatened to derail Fall of wickets: 1-118 (Tamim), 2-127 (Mominul), 3-142 (Soumya), 23 rapid runs off 19 balls be- fi nishing on 3-72. Off -break their innings completely. 4-170 (Shakib), 5-184 (Mahmudullah), 6-192 (Liton), 7-298 (Mehedi), fore fl icking a sliding delivery bowler Perera chipped in with “Our boys stuck to the plan 8-298 (Taskin), 9-308 (Mushfiqur), 10-312 (Mustafizur) from Sandakan down the leg 3-53. extremely well and came out Bowling: S. Lakmal 14-0-42-1, L. Kumara 16-1-70-1 (w3), D. Perera 19- side where wicketkeeper Niro- Bangladesh skipper Mush- well this morning with the de- 4-53-3 (nb1), R. Herath 26.2-4-72-3, L. Sandakan 22-5-69-1 (nb1). shan Dickwella completed the fi qur Rahim made a dogged half- termination to try and win catch. century and shared 106 runs for that fi rst session, which they Mahmudullah (8) and wick- the seventh wicket with Mehedi did well,” said Sri Lanka coach and we may lose about 20 overs sult on what seems to be a pretty etkeeper-batsman Liton Das (5) Hasan, ensuring the visitors Graham Ford. out of the match. It is quite a lot good batting wicket.” also threw their wickets away avoided the follow-on. “Unfortunately this rain came when you are pressing for a re- Fast bowler Suranga Lakmal with loose shots. Ahmed Shehzad

FOCUS Williamson leads fi ghtback by injury-hit NZ

AFP ing Williamson was winning overs after lunch, with the last Amla diving to his left to take a Q. de Kock c Wagner b Patel ...... 10 Dunedin the battle with South Africa’s six wickets falling for only 56 sharp one-handed catch bring- V. Philander b Boult ...... 21 bowling spearhead Vernon Phi- runs. ing nightwatchman Jeetan Patel K. Maharaj c Neesham b Boult ...... 5 lander. It was a rapid end to an innings to the crease and he was on nine K. Rabada b Patel ...... 4 outh Africa made “I think Kane’s on top at where the wicket off ered little at stumps. M. Morkel not out ...... 0 Kane Williamson their the moment but Vernon’s a for the bowlers and Dean Elgar, South Africa resumed day Extras (b-4 lb-1 w-2) ...... 7 number one target as the strong character and he will with his 140, had the tourists two on 229 for four and added Total (all out, 122.4 overs) ...... 308 battling New Zealander come back.” well placed at 252 for four. a cautious 23 in 12 overs before Fall of wickets: 1-10 S. Cook,2-20 Sensured his side prospered de- New Zealand’s chief destroyer South Africa removed Tom Neil Wagner claimed the crucial H. Amla,3-22 J. Duminy,4-148 F. spite a crippling injury to Ross Trent Boult, with four for 64 in Latham early, caught behind wicket of Dean Elgar to end his du Plessis,5-252 D. Elgar,6-265 Q. Taylor on day two of the fi rst unhelpful bowling conditions, off Vern Philander for 10, be- 104-run partnership with Tem- de Kock,7-279 T. Bavuma,8-298 K. Test yesterday. said they would not know until fore Williamson and Jeet Raval ba Bavuma. Maharaj,9-308 K. Rabada,10-308 V. Williamson led a charmed Friday if Taylor could resume sparked the innings with a 102- It was the beginning of the Philander life at the crease, surviving playing, but the prospects were run stand before Raval went for end for South Africa as Quinton Bowling: T. Boult 32.4-12-64-4(w- three edges and a run-out at- not good. 52. de Kock fell for 10 to his nemesis 2) ; N. Wagner 31-8-88-3; J. Patel tempt to be 78 not out at stumps “It’s a shame to see him limp Patel, dismissed by the off -spin- 33-12-85-2; M. Santner 18-5-32-0; J. with New Zealand 177 for three, off like that. He’s big player for Streaky Williamson ner for the third time in as many Neesham 8-2-34-1 131 runs behind South Africa’s us,” Boult said. Williamson survived four innings on this tour. fi rst innings total of 308 in Dun- “He’s disappointed as we close calls during his knock. Patel also bowled Kagiso Ra- New Zealand I innings edin. could all understand but the way Keshav Maharaj found the edge bada while Trent Boult claimed T. Latham c de Kock b Philander . 10 While New Zealand were he walked off it doesn’t look too when he was on 10, and again Bavuma for 64, Maharaj for fi ve J. Raval c Elgar b Maharaj ...... 52 sweating on the fi tness of sen- good.” on 40, but on both occasions and fi nished the innings bowling K. Williamson not out ...... 78 ior batsman Taylor, who was on Taylor was injured running the ball fell fractionally short of Philander for 21. R. Taylor retired hurt ...... 8 eight when he limped off with a a single during a fi ery spell by Hashim Amla at fi rst slip. Boult was the sharpest of the H. Nicholls c Amla b Maharaj ...... 12 calf injury, South African bowl- Morne Morkel, who two balls On 72, Williamson was sent New Zealand bowlers with four J. Patel not out ...... 9 ing coach Charl Langeveldt said earlier had hit him on the head. back by Henry Nicholls and he for 64, while Wagner took three Extras (lb-6 nb-2) ...... 8 Williamson’s wicket was their In his fi rst Test following in a made his ground by the slim- for 88 and Patel fi nished with Total (for 3 wickets, 55 overs) .177 chief concern. year after a long-injury lay off , mest of margins. Four runs later 2-85. Fall of wickets: 1-15 T. Latham,2-117 “We have to try and contain Morkel sent down a lively 10 an edge off Philander failed to J. Raval,3-165 H. Nicholls Kane Williamson, defi nitely overs for 26 and showed no sign carry to the slip cordon. Scoreboard Bowling: K. Rabada 14-3-46-0; V. he’s the key. I’m not sure if Ross of discomfort. The Maharaj-Amla partner- South Africa I innings Philander 14-4-37-1(nb-2); M. Morkel Taylor is going to come back,” New Zealand wrapped up ship made no mistake when D. Elgar c Watling b Wagner ...... 140 10-3-26-0; K. Maharaj 16-3-57-2; J. Langeveldt said while conced- the South African innings five removing Nicholls for 12, with T. Bavuma c Watling b Boult ...... 64 Duminy 1-0-5-0. New Zealand captain Kane Williamson. Gulf Times Friday, March 10, 2017 7 SPORT

CRICKET MOTOGP Marc VDS rider Rabat back on track in Qatar Australia respect By Sports Reporter allow him to further close the Doha gap to the current frontrunners ahead of the opening race of the season. eam Estrella Galicia “The last four weeks have 0,0 Marc VDS rider been all about rehabilitation, Tito Rabat will return working with the physiothera- to action during this pist to recover from the inju- Kohli despite Tweek’s third and fi nal MotoGP ries and also the surgery,” said preseason test, set to get un- Rabat. derway today at Losail Inter- “I am still not back to full national Circuit. fi tness but I’m fi t to ride and Rabat, who crashed at although we’ll need to take the Sepang in the fi rst preseason injuries into account in Qatar, test, was forced to sit out the this won’t stop us from enjoy- recent sessions at Phillip Is- ing a productive test. This test ‘off ensive’ claims land due to injuries sustained isn’t about pushing for a lap in Malaysia. time, it’s about working with The Spaniard suff ered a my crew, rebuilding my confi - ‘We haven’t got any elaborate sign system and when he did do that it was quite a surprise to us’ distal fracture of the radius, a dence with the bike and ensur- fracture of the fi fth metacarpal ing we are as well prepared as in the right hand, a fracture to it’s possible to be when we re- Reuters the distal phalanx in the right turn to the Losail International New Delhi foot and a severely lacerated Circuit for the fi rst race of the left knee when he crashed at season.” Turn 11. Jack Miller added: “I’m feel- ustralia retain respect The former Moto2 World ing really good after the tests in for Virat Kohli despite Champion has completed an Sepang and Phillip Island and the India captain’s “ab- extensive four-week rehabili- I’m looking forward to carry- surd” and “off ensive” tation program, including an ing that momentum into the allegationsA against counterpart initial stay in hospital to ensure fi nal preseason test in Qatar, Steve Smith, assistant coach against infection, and is look- where we’ll be testing the lat- David Saker said yesterday. ing forward to resuming his est specifi cation Honda engine The four-Test series between preparations for the 2017 sea- for the fi rst time. the world’s top two teams wit- son this week in Qatar. “It’s been a good preseason nessed considerable acrimony Jack Miller heads to Qatar so far; we’ve found some im- after Smith gestured to his looking to build on yet another provements and, step-by-step, dressing room for assistance on successful test in Phillip Is- we’ve managed to go faster, whether to review an umpire’s land, where the Queenslander fi nishing inside the top ten last lbw decision against him in the fi nished inside the top ten and time out at Phillip Island. Now second test at Bengaluru. less than a second from the top. we’re heading into the fi nal test Smith, who did not review, Miller will test with the latest before the season gets under- later admitted to the “brain evolution engine in his Honda way and the aim is simple; to fade” but his team dismissed RC213V for the fi rst time in make sure we’re fully prepared Kohli’s charge that they had re- Qatar and the EG0,0 Marc VDS for when the lights go out for peatedly resorted to the practice rider is confi dent that this will the fi rst time in 2017.” in the match won by India to lev- el the four-match series for the -Gavaskar Trophy. “It’s really off ensive,” Saker told reporters. “It’s probably the worst thing you can be called is cheats, that’s an off ensive thing. “We’ve never done anything like that and we never will.” The former England bowling coach said the Australian dress- ing room was surprised when Smith made the gesture. “It’s pretty much absurd I think. When Steven Smith did look up, we were more horrifi ed than any- one else because we’d never seen This file photograph taken on March 7, 2017, shows Indian captain Virat Kohli (L) celebrates with bowler Umesh Yadav (C) and other teammates that before,” Saker said. “We after the dismissal of Australian captain Steve Smith during the fourth day of the second Test in Bangalore. (AFP) haven’t got any elaborate sign sys- Vettel leaves partying Hamilton tem and when he did do that it was “We respect him as a player, in his wake quite a surprise to us.” he’s an amazing player and his BCCI fi les complaint against Smith, Handscomb Australia batsman Peter passion and the way he wanted Sebastian Vettel set Ferrari’s hopes for the 2017 Formula One Handscomb, who advised Smith to get his team up was quite The Indian cricket board yesterday evening filed with non-striker Handscomb when given out season soaring by blitzing the fastest time seen in pre-season to seek dressing room input from evident out on the ground,” the an off icial complaint with the ICC over Austral- lbw to pacer Umesh Yadav. Australia eventually testing in Barcelona yesterday. The German four-time world non-striker’s end, blamed the 50-year-old said. “There are ian captain Steve Smith allegedly seeking advice lost the Test by 75 runs on that day itself. Smith’s champion clocked 1min 19.024 around a sun-kissed Circuit de fi asco on his own inexperience. times when you think he might from the dressing room for use of DRS during action prompted on-field umpire Nigel Llong to Catalunya despite appearing to ease off in the third sector of “(I was) just completely una- have crossed the line, but a lot of the second Test at Bengaluru, according to an intervene immediately, and the Aussie captain was his fastest lap. Vettel also showed the reliability of the SF70H ware that you couldn’t do that,” teams have done that, and lead- espncricinfo report. According to the report, Board not allowed to review the decision. The 27-year-old by logging a marathon 155 laps to also record the most miles the 25-year-old said of his sug- ers have done that.” of Control for Cricket in India’s CEO Rahul Johri Smith, in the post-match presser, however, de- for the day. Worryingly for three-time defending champions gestion that goes against De- Former India captain Sunil lodged the complaint for an alleged level 2 off ence fended himself by terming it as ‘brain fade’ - which Mercedes, Lewis Hamilton was three tenths slower on the cision Review System (DRS) Gavaskar, however, criticised the against Aussie cricketers Steven Smith and bats- Kohli outrightly refused to agree with. Instead, same ultrasoft tyre compound used by Vettel. Hamilton, protocols. Despite the row, the ICC for not taking action against man Peter Handscomb for acting against the spirit Kohli said that the visitors had repeated the same though, may have been suff ering the after eff ects of a long International Cricket Coun- Smith. “It can’t be that some of the game. A day earlier, the International Cricket thing on at least three occasions during the game. night as he celebrated Barcelona’s sensational Champions cil (ICC) opted not to level any countries get favourable treat- Council (ICC) had refrained from taking any action Menawhile Injured opening batsman Murali Vijay League comeback against Paris Saint-Germain with Barca charge against either Smith or ment and some countries do against Smith on Indian skipper Virat Kohli’s allega- has kept his place in India’s squad for the final two star Neymar into the early hours in the Catalan capital. Valt- Kohli, whose public outburst not get favourable treatment,” tion that he sought a signal from the Australian Tests against Australia, while all-rounder Hardik teri Bottas took over in the Mercedes for the afternoon, but could also have been considered Gavaskar told NDTV channel. dressing room on using DRS after the umpire gave Pandya drops out with a shoulder problem. Vijay concentrated on longer runs in completing 95 laps in eighth a breach of code of conduct. The Border-Gavaskar Tro- him out lbw. Going by the ICC rules, Johri had up was forced to miss India’s series-levelling win in fastest. Frenchman Esteban Ocon was another one of four The teams renew their rivalry phy was named in honour of the to 48 hours since the time of the incident - which Bengaluru this week after he sustained a shoulder drivers to pass the 100-lap mark in third fastest for Force when the third Test gets under- 67-year-old, the fi rst batsman to happened in the middle session on Tuesday - to injury while fielding during the first test in Pune India. McLaren’s miserable preparation for the season, which way at Ranchi on March 16 and amass 10,000 runs in Test crick- file a complaint. The incident occurred on the last month. With batsman Abhinav Mukund failing gets underway in Melbourne on March 26, continued as Saker dismissed suggestions et, and former Australia cap- fourth day of the second Test, when Smith looked to impress during the second Test, India will be electrical issues saw Belgian rookie Stoff el Vandoorne stop that Kohli had gone down in tain Allan Border, who was the towards the dressing room after having chatted hoping Vijay recovers in time for the third Test. twice out on the track. Australia’s estimations. second.

BADMINTON GCC CLUB VOLLEYBALL Sindhu, Saina in quarters

IANS ries to keep the Indian campaign mark when 2012 Olympic bronze he damaged on a Badminton mat Birmingham alive in the world’s oldest bad- medal winner Saina really four weeks ago in Kuala Lumpur minton tournament at the Bar- showed her experience to snatch still is not completely right, and claycard Arena. the game with three successive it was notable that Lee did not ndia’s P.V. Sindhu and Sai- Olympic 2016 silver medal- points. say he had come to win the All- na Nehwal moved into the list Sindhu was hardly troubled The second game, however, England title again. women’s singles quarter- by World No.39 Ayustine, who saw Saina cruising nicely, hold- There were, he thought, about fi nals, but men’s singles came under a barrage of attacks ing a 11-6 lead at the mid-game fi ve possible winners. Ishuttler H.S. Prannoy lost in the from the Indian. Sindhu won the break. Saina hardly broke into “I just tried to forget my in- second round of the All England match in 30 minutes. a sweat to notch a 21-10 win to jury,” he said, when asked what Open Badminton Champion- Sindhu led 12-3 in the fi rst progress into the quarter-fi nals. he had tried to do. A little later ships here yesterday. game and afterwards it was a In the men’s section world he appeared to comment that Sixth seed Sindhu tamed In- formality. The second game number one Lee Chong Wei “I just focus on my condition,” donesian Dinar Dyah Ayustine turned out to be much more easy again proved a master of adapt- perhaps describing what deter- in a 21-12, 21-4 second-round as Sindhu raced to victory con- ability and economy as he over- mined his movement. victory, while eighth seed Saina ceding only four points. came both Wang Tzu Wei and It hinted that he may have thumped German qualifi er Fa- Sindhu zoomed to a 9-0 lead the enduring discomfort of his been in two minds, both about bienne Deprez 21-18, 21-10 in 35 before the 23-year-old Indone- knee injury to reach the quarter- playing here, and about what to minutes. sian bagged three points on the fi nals of the All-England Open. expect from his heavily band- The only Indian men’s singles trot. The 21-year-old Sindhu Lee defended economically, aged left knee. player left in the second round, continued her attacking spree controlled most of the rallies at He nevertheless hopes it will Prannoy failed to mount a chal- and earned nine successive a pace which was comfortable, continue to improve as he goes lenge against Chinese seventh points without any fuss. defended sensibly, and mixed along. seed Tian Houwei, losing 13-21, Later in the day, Saina had up the patterns cleverly as he He was, he agreed, playing 5-21 in 33 minutes. to battle hard to clinch the fi rst squeezed through 21-18, 21-18 a little more comfortably than Meanwhile, the Indian mixed game. The Indian looked a bit against the world number 21 on Wednesday and would focus doubles pair of Pranaav Jerry rusty at the very beginning, from Taiwan. optimistically on his next task, Chopra and N. Sikki Reddy gave holding a 5-4 lead. There was never much in it, a quarter-fi nal with last year’s their all but couldn’t avoid a 19- She looked better as the game but Lee always managed to keep All-England runner-up, Tian 21, 20-22 close defeat against progressed that helped her take a point or two ahead, and when Houwei, the seventh-seeded South Koreans Yoo Yeon Seong a 12-8 advantage. But German the most important moments of Chinese player. and Kim Ha Na late Wednesday Fabienne fought back and equal- the match came, towards the end If Lee wins that, he may earn night. ised at the 12-point mark. of each game, he found some- himself a repeat of the Olympic Qatar’s Al Rayyan beat Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal 3-1 (18-25, 30-28, 25-18, 25-18) in their group match of the However, Sindhu and Saina Afterwards, it turned out to be thing a little unexpected. Games fi nal against Chen Long, GCC Club Volleyball Championship at the Ali bin Hamad al-Attiya Arena yesterday. PICTURE: Jayaram on Thursday posted facile victo- a see-saw battle till the 17-point The troublesome knee which another Chinese player.

Friday, March 10, 2017 GULF TIMES SPORT

HORSE RACING SPOTLIGHT Preparations in place to host Suhail Al Uraiq World Challenge registers fi rst win Cup gymnastics over six furlongs Suhail Al Uraiq stayed on the heels of Al Aayar before clawing his way ahead rainer Ibrahim al-Malki and jockey Saleem Golam combined Ali al-Hitmi, president of the Qatar Gymnastics Federation (right) well for their second victory on with Abeer Ali Abdullah al-Buainain, the assistant secretary Wednesday when Sheikh Faisal general. At bottom, members of the organising committee. Tbin Hamad bin Jassim al-Thani owned Suhail Al Uraiq registered his fi rst victory over six furlongs in the Doha Cup at the QREC dirt track. Suhail Al Uraiq stayed on the heels of Al Aayar, trained by Mohamed Hussain and ridden by Alberto Sanna, before clawing his way into the lead and winning by half a length. Harry Bentley, who also won twice earlier in the day, guided Mohamed Al Sheeb schooled Kasser to a third place fi nish.

LOCAL PURE BRED ARABIAN CONDITIONS Qatar Derby Trial winner Reda topped the 1700m race to give Julian Smart a one-two two weeks after his ward Ebraz By Sports Reporter our events. We have to continue to won HH The Emir’s Sword (Gr1 PA). HH Doha work hard in delivering an amaz- Sheikh Mohamed bin Khalifa al-Thani ing tournament this month and in owned colt had two third place fi nishes the future,” he said. since his Trial win in December 2016. On Saleem Golam rides he Organising Commit- In yesterday’s meeting, the Wednesday, Richard Mullen had the 5yo Suhail Al Uraiq to win in the tee of the 10th FIG World sub-committees also provided take the inside line in the fi nal 100m and Doha Cup. Top, his connections Challenge Cup met Qa- their reports on the work com- edge out stablemate and early leader Aa- celebrate. Ttar Gymnastics Federa- pleted so far. “We discussed mat- ley Al Magam, while Harry Bentley rode tion (QGF) President Ali al- Hitmi ters that needed my attention. We Jassim Mohamed Ghazali trained Rassan yesterday to discuss the prepara- have some work to do but overall to third place. tions for the annual event, which we feel all logistical matters have will be held from March 22-25 at been fi nalised our marketing THOROUGHBRED CLASSIFIED the Aspire Dome. committee is also busy promot- STAKES (CLASS 2) (95 & below) With less than two weeks to go ing the championship,” al-Hitmi Jassim Mohamed Ghazali picked up a for the championship, the mem- noted. one-two in the 1900m run with Khalifa bers held a series of meetings, The QGF president empha- bin Sheail al-Kuwari owned Generalship which was also attended by Abeer sised on the roles played by the racing to his second victory this season Ali Abdullah al-Buainain, the As- volunteers and said they will be under Harry Bentley. Hussain Ali Bu- sistant Secretary General, QGF trained ahead of the World Cham- kanan owned Emaad led the race early on and Anis Saoud, Tournament Di- pionship. “The other main point under Marvin Suerland’s ride with Gen- rector. we discussed was the assembly eralship and Ibrahim al-Malki trained Al-Hitmi confi rmed that the and work chart of the volunteers. First to Post on his heels. A furlong from 10th edition of the championship We know that we need to give the post, Bentley made his move and will be held at the Aspire Acad- our group of volunteers the right Generalship moved out and steadily emy. “The eagerly-awaited event amount of fi rst-hand experience surged ahead to edge out Emaad for the is just a few days away and we since Qatar will host the World win. Sheikh Faisal bin Hamad bin Jassim have called the meeting to assess Championships next year. You al-Thani owned gelding was third under our readiness for the top event,” will see a lot more volunteers this Saleem Golam. al-Hitmi said. time around as we have already More than 240 gymnasts will started preparing for the 2018 THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP (CLASS display their skills – the highest World Championships. We will 3) (81-95) number of entries in the event’s closely monitor the performances After two below par performances in Malki ward, Munira eyes, was third un- running on dirt for the fi rst time since trainer Jassim Mohamed Ghazali, with history. Gymnasts from Morocco, of the volunteers since this is a 2017, Injaaz Stud’s Erroneous stepped der Alberto Sanna. his debut in November 2016. Majed Champion Jockey Harry Bentley riding Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Algeria great chance for us to shake off the picked up his fi fth career win for trainer Seifeddine’s ward edged out Ali al-Marri the 5yo to his third straight win in the will also join athletes from hosts cobwebs, if at all,” al-Hitmi said. Jassim Mohamed Ghazali. Ridden by THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP (CLASS trained Queen Maouya, ridden by Qatari 1700m run. Running the distance for Qatar. “I have addressed the heads Pierantonio Convertino, the 6yo gelding 4) (DIV 2) (QATARI RIDERS) (66-80) rider Rashid al-Marri, by a short head, the fi rst time, Aziznefs fi nished one and “Around 240 gymnasts will of the committees working to tracked early leader Shaka Zulu, trained Injaaz Stud’s Town Crier, trained by while Alberto Sanna was at the helm of a half lengths ahead of Ibrahim al-Malki feature this time and we have con- complete our preparations for by Ibrahim al-Malki, for bulk of the six Mohamed Jassim Ghazali, notched up Wasim Mohammed trained Al Thakhira, trained fi lly Afreetah, owned by Sheikh fi rmed entries from more than 30 the March 22-25 championship. furlong sprint. As stablemate Polaris was his second win this season to keep up the who completed the top three. Faisal bin Hamad bin Jassim al-Thani. countries,” al-Hitmi said. I have underlined the work that overwhelmed coming off the bend, Er- momentum, which has seen the 5yo fi n- The top two fi nishers left the rest of the “The signifi cant addition to this needs their attention. They know roneous stepped out away from the rails ish in top two for the third straight race. LOCAL THOROUGHBRED fi eld way behind, with Falot Del Falot, year’s event will be the participa- for continued success, we have and steadily moved forward, edging out Ridden by Saleh Hamad al-Marri in the MAIDEN PLATE (DIV 2) trained by Hassan al-Matwi, in third 11 tion of gymnasts from fi ve Arab to work together and round the Saleem Golam’s mount Shaka Zulu at the six furlong sprint, Town Crier swapped Running the shortest distance of his lengths behind. nations including Qatar, Morocco, clock,” he pointed out. post, with Faleh Bughanaim riding Ali- places with Mohamed Nasser al-Ram- three-race career, Mohammed Hus- Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Algeria,” The Organising Committee of zoom to third place for Deborah Moun- zani’s ward Second Life, who had won sain trained Jakom registered his fi rst PUREBRED ARABIAN MAIDEN PLATE the QGF president added. the FIG ART World Cup: tain. the last race the two horses ran together. win of the career on Wednesday. Rid- Umm Qarn’s Kufoo went one better Three years ago, Qatar won the Ali al-Hitmi, President of the THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP (CLASS Mohammed al-Mosallam rode the fi lly to den by Gerald Avranche for the second than his debut performance with the 4yo rights to host the 48th Artistic Organising Committee, Abeer Ali 4) (66-80) a second place ahead of Abid al-Qathiri’s time, the 4yo, owned by Dhafi al-Ardi al- shedding his maiden status in the open- Gymnastics World Champion- Abdullah al-Buainain, Moham- Ibrahim al-Malki trained Millington charge Queen Anne, who completed Marri, took to the dirt track for the fi rst ing race of the 10 race card on Wednes- ships in October 2018, and al- med Abdullah Maraghi, Abdul registered his fi rst victory in Qatar with the podium with Meteb al-Marri at the time, and edged out Hussein Aashoor- day. Gaetan Faucon had ridden the Alban Hitmi said the World Challenge Rahman Majid al-Qahtani, Anis a win in the six furlong run under British helm. schooled Heart of Lion by one and a half de Mieulle’s charge to a second place fi n- Cup will help them prepare for the Mustafa Sauod, Aisha al-Naima rider Saleem Golam’s ride. Having come lengths. Marvin Suerland guided the ish two months ago but on Wednesday he mega event. al-Janah, Adel Abdulaziz, Med- close over the same course and distance LOCAL THOROUGHBRED MAIDEN 4yo to second place ahead of Tomas Lu- fi nished a dominant fi ve lengths ahead “This tournament is a great op- hat Hassan Moussa, Kamal Abdel twice before, the 6yo gelding won at the PLATE kasek’s mount Sharhan Azzam. of the rest of the pack in the nine furlong portunity for us to test our readi- Azim, Bahaa Abdel Azeem, Saleh QREC dirt track at the seventh attempt, Darren Williams guided Cannon to run. Jassim Mohamed Ghazali’s Diego ness for the World Champion- Jaafar, Mohammed Sabri, Ahmed leaving behind Zuhair Mohsen’s Pipe the colt’s fi rst career victory in the six PUREBRED ARABIANS (90 & below) Des Vialettes and Julian Smart’s Mohssn ships that will be held in 2018. The Cahora, Cyril Zamora Mazen Bomb (Acclamation x Dorelia), ridden by furlong sprint. This was the fi rst time Al Shahania Stud’s Aziznefs raced to fi nished second and third respectively for global gymnastics family – the Taha, Samira Said, Hani Ibrahim Stephan Ladjadj for the win. Another al- Williams was riding Cannon, who was his fourth straight victory this season for their second straight outing. FIG – has great appreciation for and Darwish.

INTERVIEW Silvestre: Qatar 2022 important for globalisation

ormer France defender Mikael as guest speaker and media pundit. las Anelka, David Trezeguet, William Silvestre, who moved to Arsenal Silvestre believes Qatar host- “The 2022 FIFA World Cup is very Gallas and Willy Sagnol were my team- from Old Traff ord in 2008 and spent ing the 2022 FIFA World Cup important for the globalisation of foot- mates,” he said. two seasons at the north London club, Fwill be a signifi cant milestone ball, as an Arab country will be hosting “Malaysia was the fi rst big stage for also dwelt on his experiences in a third in the process of globalisation of foot- it for the fi rst time ever,” the fi ve-time all of us. We were at the threshold of Asian country – India – which is close ball, of which he is both a staunch pro- English Premier League winner said turning professional – some of us had to his heart. ponent and a benefi ciary. in an exclusive interview with www. almost signed professional contracts. “Playing in India for Chennaiyin Silvestre – who was part of the sc.qa. “The entire Arab world will be Argentina also had a gifted generation FC was a very enjoyable experience as France squad that reached the 2006 making an important statement if Qa- coming through the ranks.” the country has a fast-growing foot- FIFA World Cup fi nal – fi rst made his tar delivers the best ever World Cup The man with 40 international caps ball scene,” he said. “In addition to mark on the international stage in 1997 from an organisational point of view. and 361 appearances in a decorated being the defensive partner of player- at the FIFA World Youth Champion- I am happy to see that a lot of eff ort is nine-year career with Manchester manager Marco Materazzi, I did a lot of ship in Malaysia, and wound up his going into the preparations to ensure United said Qatar, like Malaysia, is Italian-to-English translation for my decorated professional career in 2014 the competition will be a success.” equally passionate about football. Indian teammates at the club,” he said with a season-long stint in the inaugu- The 2008 UEFA Champions League “As a regular visitor to Qatar, I am with a smile. ral edition of the Indian Super League. winner also reminisced about his in- amazed to witness the rich football Silvestre said that the bond he shared During a visit this week to the of- ternational tournament bow in Ma- culture in Doha concentrated in a with Italy’s 2006 FIFA World Cup win- fices of the Supreme Committee for laysia, to underpin the strategic im- compact geographical space,” said the ner Materazzi underscored football’s Delivery & Legacy (SC), the 39-year- portance of awarding hosting rights of Frenchman. “I have been here in 2013 role in bringing people together. “The old former Manchester United and major tournaments to countries out- as a speaker at the Doha Goals event incident between Marco and ‘Zizou’ Arsenal player also said the passion side Europe. and visit the country periodically as a in the 2006 fi nal was unfortunate, but for football in the host nation of “The tournament was a big success media pundit for beIN’s live football despite that I was able to have a great what will be the first ever FIFA World because of the huge passion for the broadcasts, and whenever I am here I relationship with Marco in India. This Cup™ in the Middle East has im- game in Malaysia. A lot of future stars admire the overwhelming passion for shows that football is bigger than poli- pressed him during his regular visits were born there. Thierry Henry, Nico- the sport.” tics and war,” he said.