Ex-England and Chelsea Joe Cole bids adieu PAGE 19

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2018

Former captain savours TENNIS PAGE 19 England comeback despite criticism ATP WORLD TOUR FINALS ‘Federer deserves special treatment’ “If he doesn’t have it, who is going to have it? People want to see him play in showtime,” says Djokovic

REUTERS Benneteau was particu- his round-robin victory over night in Rod Laver Arena. ther, saying the likes of LONDON larly referring to the Austral- American John Isner at the “I understand Julien’s Federer, Djokovic and Rafael ian Open where he said 20- ATP Finals on Monday, Djoko- point because sometimes it Nadal should get even more WORLD number one Novak time Grand Slam champion vic said Federer had earned the does seem that maybe certain privileges. Djokovic leapt to the defence Federer played “12 or 13” of right for special treatment. players get more favoured “If anything, maybe they of great rival Roger Federer his 14 matches at Melbourne “In the end of the day, in year after year in certain tour- should get more special treat- on Monday after claims that in the past two years at night, a way he deserves the special naments. On the other side, ment because those guys, the the Swiss enjoys preferential so avoiding the often scorch- treatment because he’s six-time you have to understand that top players, have made other treatment on Tour. ing temperatures. champion of Australian Open Federer is a driving force of players below them a lot of Frenchman Julien Ben- He also suggested Feder- and arguably the best player tennis in terms of revenue, in money,” the American said af- neteau caused a stir during er’s Laver Cup project, an ex- ever,” Djokovic told reporters. terms of attention. ter his 6-4 6-3 defeat. an interview on French radio hibition team event in which “If he doesn’t have it, who “Julien and guys like him “It is like the Tiger Woods station RMC Sport on Sunday Australian Open tournament is going to have it? People are also benefiting from ten- effect in golf. So that is how you in which he said tournament director Craig Tiley is also in- want to see him play on the nis, because of Roger, be- can look at a guy like Roger. He referees were often kinder volved, represented a conflict centre court, and they want to cause of what he has done for is men’s tennis in my opinion. to Federer when it came to of interest. see him play in showtime, the the sport.” He deserves everything and scheduling his matches. Asked for his thoughts after best hours, which is 7:30 at Isner went even fur- more that he’s ever had.” Zverev won’t play revamped Davis Cup finals REUTERS also announced the start of a ri- must win to qualify for the We’ll see how it goes.” LONDON val World Team Cup to begin in Madrid finals. American John Isner, Australia in January 2020 with “I’m not going to play Da- beaten by Novak Djokovic on GERMANY’S Alex Zverev the likes of world number one vis Cup in November,” world his ATP Finals debut, said he says he will not take part in Novak Djokovic and 20-time number five Zverev told re- supported the idea of revamp- a revamped Davis Cup finals Grand Slam champion Roger porters after his win over Ma- ing the Davis Cup but said or- showpiece event in Spain next Federer likely to prioritise it. rin Cilic at the ATP Finals on ganisers needed to think again Date issues November. The 21-year-old Zverev, Monday. “I am going to play about staging the finals at the The Davis Cup has some Changes to the 118-year- regarded as one of the play- in February in Germany, in end of a gruelling season. old team event will see the ers to lead men’s tennis into Frankfurt, I’m going to do that. “The format’s unique. I, for serious issues to think competition turned into a a new era, said he would still “The Davis Cup has some one, don’t like the date. I think about. One of them is the week-long competition taking be available for the Davis Cup serious issues to think about. that’s the big beef with players dates. I think the date is place in November, with 18 qualifying round in February One of them is the dates. I now,” said the 33-year-old. very important and I think nations battling for the title. but said he would not play in think the date is very impor- The International Tennis none of the top players will The first two editions will the November finals week, tant and I think none of the top Federation (ITF) announced take place in Madrid’s La Caja suggesting the date was a bad players will play, except Rafa in August that its proposals to play, except Rafa (Nadal) Serbia’s Novak Djokovic, seen here at the ATP World Tour Finals in Magica, the current venue for choice for most players. (Nadal) because it’s in Spain. breathe new life into the Davis because it’s in Spain. London on Monday, leapt to the defence of great rival Roger Federer the Madrid Open. Germany host Hungary “I’m very, very sure that a Cup had been backed by the ma- Alex Zverev of Germany. after claims that the Swiss enjoys preferential treatment on Tour. (AFP) Men’s Tour the ATP have in February in Frankfurt and lot of top players will not play. jority of national federations. Inclement weather forces route changes for Manateq TITLE SPONSOR International Rally of Qatar Speaking from the QMMF’s new been impossible, even for a 4x4 Drivers to carry out offices at the Qatar Handball Sports vehicle, to cross them. Arena, Almeida said: “We have had “We have done a big job to reconnaissance of exceptional weather conditions in prepare a second rally in one stages today Qatar and this resulted in flooding week. Competitors will receive a and damage to the stages. We were bulletin with the changes when they obliged to modify the route in or- complete their registration.” TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK der to avoid any difficult situations. Rally officials had hoped to run DOHA We did that to avoid any possible 203.40 competitive kilometres in cancellation of stages. a total route of 832.75km before FREAK weather conditions and the late modifications. Friday’s ac- heavy rain have inundated parts of tion is scheduled to be fought out northern Qatar and forced officials over two runs through the Eraida at the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle and Al Dhakira stages, while Satur- Federation (QMMF) to make last We have done a big job to day’s timetable included two runs minute changes to the route for this prepare a second rally in one through a new northerly Al Khor weekend’s Manateq International week. Competitors will receive a special, Al Ghariyah and the Al Ru- Rally of Qatar, the final round of the wais timed test. FIA Middle East Rally Champion- bulletin with the changes when Rain and adverse weather have ship (MERC). they complete their registration. affected the event in the past and Twenty cars and 40 competitors route modifications have taken place from nine nations are making their Clerk of the course Pedro Almeida on several occasions. The worst final preparations for the three-day weather in the history of the event event, which gets underway with a “If the rain continues, then we occurred back in 1993 when the area ceremonial start at Souq Waqif on may have to do more changes. In was inundated when the event ran Thursday (November 15) afternoon. fact, we have now done two rallies. out of the former Ramada Renais- They will carry out their re- We had rally A and now we have sance Hotel in downtown Doha. connaissance of the revised route rally B. The rally still has five dif- That event was synonymous on Wednesday. ferent stages and four of them have with large areas of standing water Clerk of the course Pedro been modified. That has resulted in and small lakes on many stages and Almeida and his Portuguese assis- shorter stages, but safer stages. We was eventually won by Nasser Khal- Come meet the champions during the ceremonial start of Manateq - Qatar International Rally, tant Jaime Santos have been out in have made short cuts to avoid mud- ifa al Attiyah and Mubarak al Hajri the final round of the Middle East championship the northern deserts checking the dy sections and areas where the cars in a Toyota Celica GT4. at Souq Waqif - Western Square as follows: condition of the tracks and making would get stuck. There are lakes in This year’s event will start and any necessary changes to enable the desert. Some tracks disappeared finish at Souq Waqif in down- Ceremonial start Prize giving the event to run into the water. It would have town Doha with the ceremonial Thursday, 15 November 2018 Saturday 17 November 2018 smoothly. start planned for 19.05hrs on Thursday (November 15). at 07:05 PM at 05:35 PM

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Ace rallyist Nasser Saleh al Attiyah seen in action in Jordan faces the possibility of a wet stage surface in Qatar. Sports Wednesday, November 14, 2018 17

TENNIS TIME FOR FOOTBALL STAR AT THE O2 ARENA

Football club Juventus’ Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo (centre) with Georgina Rodriguez (left) and his son Cristiano Jr (right) as they watch the game between US player John Isner and Serbia’s Novak Djokovic during their round-robin men’s singles on Day Two of the ATP World Tour Finals at the O2 Arena in London on Monday. (Right) Ronaldo catches a stray ball during the match. (EPA-EFE/AFP) Sublime Anderson thrashes Nishikori Clinical Djokovic ‘One of my best matches ever’ LONDON: South African Kevin Anderson described his drubbing tames Isner of Kei Nishikori as one of the best performances of his career. There is nothing flashy about the 32-year-old but after winning REUTERS I felt I did a fantastic job his first four sets at the O2 Arena with exemplary tennis it would LONDON be a mistake to rule him out of claiming the title at the first time throughout really. I felt of asking. KEVIN ANDERSON came a sense of urgency Nishikori is the world number nine and on Sunday beat six-times within a whisker of a rare throughout which I thought champion Roger Federer in straight sets. Yet he was comprehen- “double bagel” at the ATP Fi- was really important sively outplayed by the six-foot-eight-inch Anderson, who came nals when he trounced Japan’s because I wanted to within one game of equalling Federer’s 6-0 6-0 thrashing of Kei Nishikori 6-0, 6-1 at the 02 Gaston Gaudio in 2005 -- still the only ‘double bagel’ in the Arena on Tuesday. get that win. 48-year history of the tournament. The 32-year-old debutant Kevin Anderson “Amongst the best I’ve played,” Anderson told reporters when at the ATP’s blue riband event asked to rate his 64-minute masterclass. “Getting off to a really won the first 11 games of the good start. I think I did a really good job constantly applying the round-robin clash before a re- pressure and not letting up. Today, I kept at it the whole time. I just lieved Nishikori finally got on felt I returned really well, made him hit a lot of shots off his serve.” the scoreboard with an angled He said afterwards that for each ace he served he would donate winner. $100 to the Los Angeles Fire Department currently battling Normal service was quick- deadly blazes in California in which 42 people have lost their ly resumed though as Ander- lives and many are missing. “It’s been something close to my son closed out victory thanks heart,” Florida-based Anderson, whose coach Brad Stine lives to a 24th unforced error by close to the affected areas, said. “There’s been a lot of people Nishikori. affected so we wanted to make a small difference.” (REUTERS) Only six-times champion Roger Federer has enjoyed a 6-0, 6-0 victory at the sea- points on his own serve in the when serving at 3-5 and son-ending tournament, that first set but what was most banged down three consecu- coming in 2005 in Shanghai worrying for Isner was the way tive aces to stay in the set but against unfortunate Argentine his opponent managed to read Djokovic calmly held to seize Gaston Gaudio. his towering delivery, pinging the opener. Anderson, the first South back returns to the baseline The writing was on the African to qualify for the South Africa’s Kevin Anderson in action against Japan’s Kei Nishikori during their men’s singles round-robin match on Day Three of the ATP with monotonous regularity. wall for Isner when Djokovic eight-man event since 1995, World Tour Finals at the O2 Arena in London on Tuesday. (AFP) “He’s the best returner I’ve broke serve at 3-3 in the sec- made it two wins from two ever faced for sure,” Isner said. ond set – the Serb roaring his round-robin matches with a beats Federer later. the 2017 edition because of an Already guaranteed to end beat Croatia’s Marin Cilic “Sometimes you got to hope approval. Two games later stunning display. elbow injury, offered conclu- the year as world number one 7-6(5) 7-6(1) to open his ac- he’s a bit off. Djokovic sealed victory with a What made it all the more Djokovic makes winning sive proof that the Serb is once after winning Wimbledon and count in the Gustavo Kuerten “Unfortunatley, I don’t crosscourt backhand winner. impressive was that Nishikori return to O2 again top dog. the U.S. Open, Djokovic is a group earlier in the day. think that was the case to- While the O2 Arena has had beaten Federer in straight The last time Novak Djokovic The elastic-limbed massive favourite to complete Isner, at 33 the oldest night. I got my ass kicked.” been a happy hunting ground sets on Sunday and that Ander- played at the O2 Arena he suf- 31-year-old, bidding to equal an incredible resurgence from first timer at the eight-man Having failed to convert for Djokovic with four of his son had trailed the Japanese 3-5 fered a chastening defeat at Roger Federer’s record of six world number 22 in June season-ender since Andres break points in Isner’s open- five ATP Finals titles arriving in their head-to-head record. the hands of home hero Andy titles at the ATP’s blue-riband with another title in London’s Gimeno made his debut aged ing two service games, Djoko- there, the same cannot be said Anderson, who opened Murray which confirmed the event, produced an immacu- docklands. 35 in 1972, was not overawed vic made no mistake when of four-time qualifier Cilic. with a straight sets win against end of his dominance at the late display to tame American He will now set his sights on but never managed to lay another chance came along, The Croat’s defeat by Zverev Dominic Thiem, tops the Lley- top of the men’s game. giant John Isner, who was Germany’s Alexander Zverev in a glove on Djokovic in the belting a forehand return for a – a repeat of his loss to the Ger- ton Hewitt group and will His return to the ATP Fi- making his tournament debut, his second round-robin match 73-minute contest. winner and a 4-2 lead. man 12 months ago – means he reach the semi-finals if Thiem nals on Monday, after missing 6-4 6-3. after the exciting 21-year-old Djokovic lost only four Isner saved a set point is 1-9 for the tournament. Taijul picks five for Bangladesh even as Taylor slams defiant ton

AFP Taijul took a stunning catch DHAKA at square leg to end the fine innings off Taylor, who hit 10 LEFT-ARM spinner Taijul fours in his fifth Test century – Islam claimed his third con- his first ever away from home. secutive five-wicket haul on Bangladesh also dominat- Tuesday to put Bangladesh in ed the opening two sessions command in the second Test of the day after Zimbabwe re- against Zimbabwe despite a sumed play on 25-1. defiant century by Brendon Brian Chari led Zimba- Taylor in Dhaka. bwe’s initial resistance, hit- The home side bowled ting 53 off 128 balls before he out Zimbabwe for 304 runs was snared by Mehidy on the in the first innings to take a stroke of lunch. 218-run lead after they had Mominul Haque took the The QTSBF Junior Tennis Team Cup winners in various categories with QTSBF Executive Director Saad al declared their own innings catch at short leg that was Mohannadi, Tournament Director Sultan Khalfan, and others. for a mammoth 522-7 the confirmed by television replay previous afternoon. after Bangladesh reviewed the Zimbabwe need only a initial not out decision. Qatar National Team A wins boys U-12 and draw to win their first Test Bangladesh players congratulate teammate Taijul Islam (centre) as they Taijul dismissed night- series in seven years, with the walk off the field after the third day’s play of the second Test against watchman Donald Tiripano U-14 QTSBF Junior Tennis Team Cup titles visitors having won the open- Zimbabwe at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium in Dhaka on Tuesday. (AFP) for eight early in the morn- ing match in Sylhet by 151 ing but Chari provided some TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK The local tournament The tournament is being runs, their first Test win away counter-punch, hitting six DOHA featured the participation of held in cooperation with the in almost two decades. fours and two sixes in his a number of teams for Un- Asian Tennis Federation and Taijul dismissed Regis second Test fifty. THE Qatar National Team der-12, 14, and 18 years. brings together 60 players. Chakabva for 10 to complete (A) teams claimed the boys The medal ceremony was Nawaf and Al Yafei beat his haul and Zimbabwe’s in- SCOREBOARD Under-12 and Under-14 top attended by the QTSBF Ex- the pair of Marwan Alkhanjari nings ended immediately, 19 honours in the QTSBF Junior ecutive Director Saad al Mo- of Oman and Vivek Kolluru of BANGLADESH: (1ST INNINGS 522-7 DECLARED) short of the follow-on mark as ZIMBABWE: (1ST INNINGS; OVERNIGHT 25-1) Tennis Team Cup tournament hannadi and the Tournament India in straight sets 6-2, 6-2. last man Tendai Chatara was H. Masakadza c Mehidy b Taijul ...... 14 which concluded at the Khalifa Director Sultan Khalfan, who In the singles, Nasser al unable to bat due to injury. B. Chari c Mominul b Mehidy ...... 53 Tennis and Squash Complex congratulated the winners and Khelaifi defeated Mohamad Zimbabwe edged towards D. Tiripano c Mehidy b Taijul ...... 8 on Monday. stressed that the tournament Kitouh of Syria 6-1, 6-0 to B. Taylor c Taijul b Mehidy ...... 110 avoiding the follow-on once S. Williams b Taijul ...... 11 The Almas Team finished serves as preparation for the reach the second round, Taylor hit 110 off 194 balls S. Raza b Taijul ...... 0 second, ahead of Qatar Na- Qatari players ahead of Qatar while Ali al Yafei made it to and Peter Moor added a P. Moor lbw b Ariful ...... 83 tional Team (B) in the third Asian Junior Tournament. the second round following career-best 83 to rescue the R. Chakabva c Mominul b Taijul ...... 10 place in the boys Under-12 his win over Mohammad al B. Mavuta c Ariful b Mehidy ...... 0 side from a precarious 131-5 K. Jarvis not out ...... 9 category. Qatar’s Nawaf and Al Yafei Shatti of Kuwait. in the final session. T. Chatara retired out ...... 0 In the boys U-14 section, in Asian junior doubles In girls singles, Sheikha Bangladesh had occasional Extras: (b5, lb1) ...... 6 Lions and Tennis Fighters quarter-finals Khalifa moved into the quar- medium pacer Ariful Haque Zimbabwe batsman Brendan Taylor during his innings of 110 runs at TOTAL: (Aall out; 105.3 overs) ...... 304 took the second and third Meanwhile, Qatar’s Rashed ter-finals beating Tamara the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka on Tuesday. (AFP) Fall of wickets: 1-20 (Masakadza), 2-40 (Tiripano), to thank for breaking Moor’s 3-96 (Chari), 4-129 (Williams), 5-131 (Raza), place respectively. Nawaf and Nasser al Yafei Fakhouri 6-4, 5-7, 6-1. 139-run sixth-wicket part- 6-270 (Moor), 7-290 (Taylor), 8-290 (Mavuta), In boys under 18 years, made it to the quarter-finals Qatar is being represented nership with Taylor when he Nazmul Islam at cover off Taylor brought up his hun- 9-304 (Chakabva). Backy Villy Team led the of the boys doubles event of at the tournament by Nasser al trapped the right-hander leg Mustfizur Rahman, hit 12 dred off Taijul but off-spinner Bowling: Mustafizur 21-8-58-0, Khaled 18-7-48-0, standings with Qatar Na- Qatar Asian Junior U-14 Tour- Yafei, Rashed Nawaf, Nasser Taijull 40.3-10-107-5, Mehidy 20-3-61-3, before in his first over. fours and a six in his fifth Test Mehedy Hasan soon ended Mahmudullah 2-0-14-0, Ariful 4-2-10-1. tional Tennis team in the sec- nament at the Khalifa Inter- al Khelaifi, Abdulaziz Zainal, Moor, who was dropped 50, his second successive half- his innings to put Bangladesh Toss: Bangladesh. ond place, and Qatar’s Tennis national Tennis and Squash Meshaal al Khenji, Amna al on 75 by substitute fielder century in the series. back in control. School being third. Complex on Monday. Qaet and Sheikha Khalifa. 18 Wednesday, November 14, 2018 Sports Hammadi, Daniel launch their attempt to cycle around Qatar Riders will cover a distance of 500 km to raise awareness of road safety and healthy lifestyle

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK DOHA

QATARI adventurer Abdulla al Hammadi and his French teammate Pierre Daniel have launched their attempt to cycle around Qatar on Tuesday from Katara. The duo will cover a dis- tance of more than 500 kilome- tres to visit a number of schools around the country promoting road safety and active lifestyle. An 80-km trip to Al Dha- kira, that included a visit to Abdulla al Hammadi and Pierre Daniel pose with kids of Al Khor International School as they ‘Cycle Around Qatar’ to raise awareness of road Al Khor International School safety and healthy lifestyle. marked the opening day but things will get serious during the future generations,” Ab- part of your daily life. It can be School and Lycée Voltaire, it and this ride is like a bridge the following three days as they dulla al Hammadi said. only walking or running or rid- was a pleasure to see the kids so between the French and Qatari will need to cover 130-160 kilo- Hammadi, 60, is already ing a bicycle. Trust me you will excited and engaged with our cultures. Both of our govern- metres every day, before finish- one of the most inspiring reap great benefits. It will not presentations. Now at Al Khor ments are also in good rela- ing their challenge at Aspire sports figures in Qatar. He was only improve your health, but International School, it was tions. This is a great symbol Zone on Friday. the oldest participant at Samla also will make positive effect on also a fantastic welcoming from of what Qatar and France can “It will be a tough chal- race this year and he regularly your career and life,” he added. the children. They were truly be,” he added. lenge, but we are ready for it. takes part in various endur- For Pierre Daniel, 37, an delighted to see us and to talk General Manager of Cultur- The weather is beautiful at this ance sports competitions in experienced endurance sports with us about road safety and al Village Foundation-Katara, time of the year and that will Qatar and around the world. athlete and coach, who lives they asked about each detail Khalid bin Ibrahim al Sulaiti help us. After we visited the Last year he cycled across Ja- in Qatar, the challenge might in the bicycle. It was a heart- said, “We are proud to be spon- two schools on Monday and pan from north to south, a be easier than the one he con- warming moment for both Ab- soring Cycling Around Qatar saw how the kids were eager 4300-km trip that took him 27 quered earlier this year, when dulla and me.” and to see Hammadi and Dan- to know more about this sport days to complete. he went around Qatar on foot, Daniel, who met Hammadi iel launching their ride from and our ride, it gave us a lot of “Age is never a limit. Peo- covering more than 477 kms. in 2015 during a charity cycling Katara. They have great goals, enthusiasm, and it was not dif- ple must understand that. It “It will be different, and the ride in Europe, also see “Cy- which is to raise awareness of ferent at Al Khor international is never too late, you just need goal will also be different, this cling Around Qatar” as a dem- road safety and active lifestyle, school. The way they received to start, it is the most difficult time the aim is to give some- onstration of the good relations and we fully believe in these us was amazing. We are really step, but then after that you also thing back to the community. between France and Qatar. goals and their positive effect glad to be doing this to inspire need to make exercising a vital We visited Ahmad Mansour “We are very close friends on the community.” Quick read Sport Integrity Unit McIlroy hints at US Mosaad, Selby set up campaign in 2019 in pursuit of top spot signs Hague Accord RORY McIlroy dropped a bomb- shell on Tuesday by hinting he Qatar final showdown with Crime Stoppers could give up his European Tour membership in an effort to get back to the top of the world rank- International ings next year. Both players are The world number seven plans to concentrate on playing yet to win on tour TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK report information on crime in the United States, especially this year HAGUE anonymously with the changes that have been During the signing, Dale made to the 2019 world golf IN yet another step towards Sheehan, Director Capac- schedule. TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK fighting integrity violations ity Building and Education at Next year, the WGC-Mexico DOHA and misconduct, the Sport SIU said; “We are extremely Championship will be played in Integrity Unit (SIU) has pleased to sign The Hague Ac- February, the Players Champi- EGYPT’S Omar Mosaad came signed The Hague Accord cord and to join the movement onship has been advanced to back from a set down to beat during the Crime Stoppers towards fighting crime sys- March, the Masters in April, the George Parker and clinch a International (CSI) 39th An- tematically. The importance PGA Championship has been spot in the final of the QSF nual Conference. of a safe, secure and anony- moved to May and the US Open No.1 tournament at the Khal- The Hague Accord, draft- mous reporting platform can- is in June. Which means there ifa International Tennis & ed by CSI, has brought to- not be emphasised enough, will be one big tournament every Squash Complex on Tuesday. gether a coalition of organisa- especially when it comes to month across the Pacific until the The top seed lost the first tions from multiple sectors as wrongdoing in sport where British Open in July. game 11-4 to the unseeded signatories towards a global often it is the vulnerable and “I am starting my year off in Englishman but his superior- movement empowering com- young athletes who are the the States (at the Tournament ity was on full display as he munities to take action and victims. An anonymous re- of Champions) and that will be swept the next three games fight crime through anony- porting hotline is the key.” the big focus of mine up until 11-7, 11-5, 11-6. mous reporting. “We look forward to build- the end of August and then we The 2008 PSA Young Top seed Omar Mosaad of Egypt (right) and England’s Daryl Selby during the QSF No.1 Squash tournament The SIU and the Sport ing our relationship with CSI will assess it from there,” said Player of the Year will play in Doha. Integrity Hotline were estab- and law-enforcement agen- the former world No1. “I think another Englishman Daryl lished by the International cies internationally to uphold it is the result of the changes,” Selby who also lost the first The veteran Selby who two games 11-3, 11-3 convinc- ning the next game 11-8 for Centre for Sport Security the principles of The Hague he explained ahead of the Tour’s game 11-4 in the semi-final knocked out home favour- ingly but Lobban roared back a chance in the final of the (ICSS) as part of the growing Accord,” added Dale Sheehan. season-ending DP World Tour to Scotland’s fifth seed Greg ite Abdulla al Tamimi in the to claim the fourth 11-9. Selby $51,000 PSA Tour Bronze demand for independent in- Devrol Dupigny, Chief Championship. (AFP) Lobban. quarters, claimed the next was not to be denied, win- event. vestigations and intelligence Operations Officer at CSI services within the sports said; “Transnational organ- industry. The SIU Hotline is ised crime poses a growing accessible for athletes, offi- threat to national and inter- cials and the public to report national security, with dire Mick Schumacher allegations of misconduct or implications for public safe- Students shine in SOP abuse in sport. ty, public health, democratic By signing The Hague institutions and economic eyes Macau Grand Accord, the SIU commits to: stability” basketball competitions Endorse the concept and val- “Not only are criminal ue of anonymous reporting networks expanding, but Prix challenge in F3 of transnational organised they are also diversifying TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK crime, as championed by CSI, their activities so our efforts DOHA and to willingly collaborate, to combat crime require a AFP Formula One world champion, in support of the CSI mission, coordinated transnational STUDENTS from different BERLIN was just 21 when he won the and to mobilise the world to response.” learning stages sparkled in the 37th edition of the race around competitions of Schools Olym- MICK Schumacher will at- the streets of Macau in 1990. pic Program held at the Qatar tempt to follow in his famous Fast-forward 28 years and Basketball Federation Indoor father’s footsteps on Saturday Mick Schumacher is one of the Hall at Al Gharafa Sports Club. when he races in the Macau favourites for the 65th edition In the basketball event Grand Prix to decide argu- – essentially the World Cup of for secondary school (boys), ably the world’s best Formula Formula Three – after winning Doha defeated Sumaisma 32- Three driver. this season’s European F3 title 2, while in level two Abi Ayoob “It’s great to be back in last month. Al Ansari and Malek bin Anas Macau, it was a fantastic sea- He will battle Japan’s F3 schools easily progressed into son for the whole team and champion Sho Tsuboi and the second round. Malek bin I’m proud to be coming here Britain’s 2017 Macau GP win- Anas thrashed Joaan bin Jas- as European champion,” Mick ner Dan Ticktum, who finished sim school 4-2 and Abi Ayoob Schumacher, 19, said after ar- second behind Schumacher Al Ansari defeated Al Mothana riving in China with his Italian in the 2018 European F3 title bin Haretha 8-2. Students participate in a basketball game during the Schools Olympic Prema Team. race, on Macau’s famous Guia Abi Ayoob Al Ansari out- Program at Al Gharafa. “This is the race that every Circuit in a field of 28. Schu- classed Malek bin Anas model Formula Three driver wants macher junior finished 16th in school 16-2. tions for preparatory schools with hundreds of student ath- to win. I’ll try my best to do last year’s Macau Grand Prix, In handball competitions (girls), Al Daayen defeated Al letes competing from all over just that.” despite clocking the fastest lap. for girls primary schools, Kabaan 3-2 and Al Wajba over- the country. Famous past winners of the “The Macau Grand Prix is Khadeeg abin Khoweilad de- came Al Shamal 6-5. Maria Al The SOP committee aims Macau Grand Prix for F3 driv- a race with great history, with feated Al Khansaa 5-0, while Al Qibtiya defeated Al Khor 15-0. to spread a culture of sports ers include Ayrton Senna and many of the victors being some Khor recorded 7-0 victory over The SOP is held annually throughout Qatar’s schools David Coulthard, plus both of the most successful drivers of Umm Slal. Zakreet outclassed as a collaborative effort of Qa- and to engage the entire com- Mick Schumacher’s father Mi- all time,” added the teenager. Al Goyria bint Al Hareth tar School Sports Federation munity in active and healthy chael and his uncle Ralf. “It would be a great hon- school 6-0. (QSSF) and Ministry of Edu- lifestyles while retaining local Michael Schumacher, 49, our to appear on the list of Dale Sheehan, Director Capacity Building and Education Sport Integrity In the handball competi- cation and Higher Education, values and traditions. the stricken seven-time former winners.” Unit with Devrol Dupigny, Chief Operations Officer at CSI. Sports Wednesday, November 14, 2018 19

News in brief Rooney savours England Umm Salal, Al Kharaitiyat face QFA Disciplinary Committee for violating rules DOHA: Mansoor al Ansari, Secretary-General of Qatar Football return despite criticism Association, said in a statement that two clubs that violated the federation’s circulars have been referred to the QFA Disci- plinary Committee for further action. He said Umm Salal and Al Kharaitiyat are the first clubs to be transferred to the compe- The 33-year-old will earn his 120th and final England cap against the US at Wembley on Thursday tent committees for violating the QFA’s recent instructions. Al Ansari said the circular issued by Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed al Thani, President of QFA, was sent officially to the heads of clubs on 24 September. The two clubs were instruct- ed not to negotiate new contracts unless previous debts were cleared. He said that the QFA issued a new circular last Thurs- day (No. 278) regarding the non-termination of the contracts of any coach, technical staff or professionals players (Qataris or overseas). Clubs which do not adhere to QFA directives will be penalised according to law, he said.

Manchester United defender Victor Lindelof wins Swedish Golden Ball STOCKHOLM: Sweden and United defender Victor Lindelof collected his first Golden Ball as Swedish player of the year at the country’s annual football gala late Monday. The 24-year-old was cited for “taking on challenges at the very highest level” both at the World Cup finals in Russia and in the , and honing his skills as a defender. “This means everything for me,” Lindelof said in his acceptance speech where he thanked team-mates and family. Sweden great Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who plays for Los Angeles Galaxy, was named forward of the year for the 13th time. The jury praised how Ibrahimovic “regardless of the circumstances, continues to produce a lot of goals. Powerful. Elegant. Spec- tacular.” At the gala in Stockholm’s Globe Arena, Nilla Fischer of German side Wolfsburg won the Diamond Ball - the award presented to the best women’s player.

English FA to cut foreign players in Premier League: Report LONDON: In a bid to deal with Brexit and boost the number of homegrown players, the English Football Association (FA) is plan- ning to reduce the number of overseas players in Premier League squads to 12 from 17, the Times newspaper reported on Tuesday. The proposal, to be put to the clubs this week, would mean sig- nificant changes to a number of sides. Thirteen clubs have more than 12 overseas players in their first team squads this season. The FA would in return agree to give a governing body endorse- England’s striker Wayne Rooney at a press conference during their media day at St George’s Park in Burton-on-Trent, England, on Tuesday. (AFP) ment, usually issued for a non-EU/European Economic Area elite player to help the development of football in England, for a work REUTERS like gifts”, while former Black- again. It was nice to see them with it, but it is important that demands.” After a season back permit for every foreign player who gets a contract with a Premier LONDON burn Rovers and Celtic striker and the staff, and the recep- there is money raised for the at Everton, former Manchester League club, the report said. If the clubs fail to reach agreement Chris Sutton believes Rooney’s tion they gave me was fantastic. Wayne Rooney Foundation,” United striker Rooney secured with the FA on Brexit, they could face a “no-deal” scenario where FORMER England captain inclusion “devalued the inter- Overall it’s great to be back.” he added. a move to the U.S. to join D.C. all EU players would have to fulfil the same criteria that non-EU Wayne Rooney hopes the national cap”. Rooney, England’s all-time re- England manager Gareth United -- whom he helped to players do now to get a work permit, the report added. country will embrace a culture Rooney, however, told a cord goalscorer, is expected to Southgate said last week he the playoffs in his first cam- of honouring its players in news conference on Tuesday make an appearance as a sub- was yet to decide when in the paign. the near-future as he shrugged that stitute in the friendly against second half Rooney will come Despite his impressive run ’ Eriksson era starts with a off criticism on Tuesday of his had decided it was right to hon- the U.S. -- a match arranged on, but added it would be be- in front of goal, Rooney has win over Singapore farewell international appear- our his England career in this to raise funds for the Rooney fore fans start “heading for the ruled out a temporary return ance against the United States. way having spoken to the cur- Foundation, which aims to tube”. to the Premier League during HONG KONG: Sven-Goran Eriksson started his stint as Philip- The 33-year-old striker will rent players. improve the lives of disadvan- When asked if he could the Major League Soccer off- pines head coach with a 1-0 win over Singapore in their Asean earn his 120th and final Eng- “We haven’t done anything taged children. start the game, Rooney said: season. “No, I think I made the Football Federation Championship opener on Tuesday evening. land cap at Wembley on Thurs- like this before but I hope in 10 Rooney’s return has already “I said to Gareth whatever he decision to obviously go to the The former England manager was appointed last month day, two years after his last ap- or 15 years’ time we are sat here made an impact at the Wemb- wants from me in the game is States and I intend to stick with to lead Philippines through the Asean Championship before pearance, but his return to the for someone like Harry Kane ley ticket office, with more than what I’ll try and give him. that,” he said. “And its impor- taking the Azkals to their first appearance at the finals of the international fold has not been who could go on and get the 20,000 tickets sold since his “I’m not putting any pres- tant to me to give my full com- Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates in January. without its critics. goalscoring record,” Rooney appearance was confirmed ear- sure on him -- I’ve seen bits mitment to DC. Obviously I’ve The Swede, though, has work to do if he is to build a England’s record-appear- said. lier this month. which say ‘should he be num- seen talk of a loan move back team that will make much of an impression at the continental ance-maker Peter Shilton said “It’s nice to be back here, “It’s something different. ber 10?’, ‘Should he wear the here and that’s something I’m championships early next year, after a lacklustre performance caps should not be “given out turning up and meeting players I’m not asking people to agree armband?’ I’m not making any not prepared to do.” against the Singaporeans. Despite dominating possession, the Philippines created little of note, with going closest to breaking the deadlock before Patrick Reichelt scored the only goal of the game 12 minutes from time. The win gives the Philippines three points and sees them go level with Thailand, Indonesia and the Singaporeans in group B of Former England & Chelsea star Joe Cole retires the regional tournament. The top two in the five-team group advance to the semi-finals. REUTERS as a professional have been.” He was selected for the LONDON Cole made his debut at West 2002, 2006 and 2010 World Ham aged 17 and became club Cups, making his final England FORMER England and Chel- captain four years later, being appearance at the latter tour- sea midfielder Joe Cole has an- heralded as one of England’s nament in South Africa. nounced his retirement from brightest youth prospects due Cole’s career after leaving football on Tuesday, bringing to his excellent skills Chelsea in 2010 was limited to the curtain down on a 20-year and flair. short uneventful spells at Liv- professional career. He joined Chelsea in 2003, erpool, Lille, West Ham, Aston Cole, who turned 37 last one of a number of recruits Villa and Coventry City before week, made 716 appearances brought in following the takeo- moving to the United States. and scored 104 goals for seven ver of the club by Russian Ro- Having enjoyed a short clubs and completed his career man Abramovich but struggled stint as player-assistant coach with in to impose himself as a starter at the Rowdies, Cole now wish- the second-tier United Soccer in his early days at Stamford es to pursue a coaching career League. Bridge. in the near-future. “After 20 years as a profes- However, he went on to win “I want to stay involved in sional, the time has come for every domestic honour at Chel- the game. I feel I can offer a me to hang up my boots,” Cole, sea, including three Premier A file photo of England’s Joe Cole during a friendly match ahead of lot as a coach and have really who came through West Ham League titles and two FA Cups. the start of the 2010 World Cup football tournament in Johannesburg, enjoyed the opportunity to un- United’s youth system, said On the international stage, South Africa. (AFP) dertake some of these duties in a statement. “It has been a Cole was regarded as a mem- with the Rowdies,” he added. James Younghusband (centre) vies for the ball with Singaporean dream come true. All of it. ber of England’s ‘golden gen- . but never quite reached the po- “To lend my experience to players during their Suzuki Cup match in , Philippines on “Whatever is next, I hope eration’ which included the He scored 10 goals in 56 tential he showed in his youth. help other young footballers Tuesday. (AFP) the next two decades are as likes of , David appearances for the national Cole was often hindered by in- achieve their dreams, just like special as my last 20 years Beckham, and side between 2001 and 2010, juries throughout his career. I did, is a big passion of mine.” France, Spain on the brink of finals, Germany face drop

DPA and then Germany in Gelsen- and the 2018 World Cup. ’s Jordi Alba is also BERLIN kirchen on Monday. On the other end of the spec- Fixtures back in the squad. A Dutch victory against trum relegation would be anoth- Belgium : Iceland Depending on the outcome WORLD champions France France would also see the once er blow for Germany after their of the game, English and Croatia and Spain are one step away mighty Germans, who have World Cup group stage exit. Croatia : Spain could then be playing to either from qualifying for the Nations one point, relegated to Nations Coach Joachim Loew and Netherlands : France win the group or avoid being rel- League finals while Germany League B. If France win, the Ger- his players hope for victory in a Italy : Portugal egated. could be relegated before they mans still need to beat the Dutch Thursday friendly against Russia England : Croatia “We’re looking at a game even play their last game. on Tuesday, and by morethan in Leipzig to boost morale. Switzerland : Belgium where we could be going to a The last rounds of League A three goals if the Dutch draw “It’s two good games,” semi-final or we could be out of group games will also see a thrill- against France. RB Leipzig forward Timo Wer- Germany : Netherlands the league,” England manager ing showdown between World “Of course we play to win ner said. “The more important said. Cup semi-finalists Belgium and games and the Nations League,” is against Holland but against have the opportunity to play In Group 3, European cham- Switzerland for a place at the Dutch coach Ronald Koeman Russia we should get a bit of mo- at Wembley for the top spot.” pions Portugal lead the way with mini-tournament next June said. mentum so we can play a good Spain complicated their six points into a Saturday date at while England and Croatia face “When the draw was made game on Monday.” situation by losing 3-2 at home second-placed Italy (four) before first place or the drop, just like it was believed the Dutch would Croatia had a stunning run against England and it was hosting relegated Poland (one) the Dutch. finish third. into the World Cup final in Rus- no surprise that Luis Enrique in the final game. France top Group 1 with sev- Now it seems as if more is sia but like the Germans are on Kylian Mbappe of France is challenged by Joshua Kimmich and Mats looked to shake-up the centre Italy, who like the Dutch en points and and require only a possible. We have two great the brink of relegation in Group Hummels of Germany during their UEFA Nations League match at the of his defence for Spain’s final missed the World Cup, have draw on Friday in Rotterdam to games ahead of us.” 4 on one point ahead of a home Allianz Arena in Munich, recently. (GETTY IMAGES) group game against Croatia this a slim chance to reach the Fi- clinch first place. Prevailing over the reigning game against leaders Spain (six) Thursday. nal Four, with coach Roberto But the Dutch, on three, still and the 2014 world champions and trip to England (four). keen to make amends. Dalic said. “Let’s all keep this Espanyol defender Mario Mancini saying: “We play to have a chance to win the group would be a considerable boost Spain thrashed Croatia 6-0 “This loss has to be forgot- summer’s unity and witness a Hermoso has been called up and beat Portugal and get first place, themselves. In order to do that for Dutch morale after they in their first meeting in Elche ten, as we await an entirely dif- good Croatia’s performance and could even come into the team even though it will not depend they must first beat Les Bleus failed to qualify for Euro 2016 two months ago, and Croatia are ferent match,” coach Zlatko an important victory, to alongside Sergio Ramos, and only on ourselves.”