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Saturday, November 21, 2020 Rabia II 6, 1442 AH GULF TIMES

SPORT 2 YEARS TO GO

FFullull steamsteam aheadahead Two years from today, hosts will kick off the Middle East and Arab world’s first FIFA World Cup

oday marks exactly two years until the next and groundbreaking edition of the FIFA World Cup. TheT compact nature, modern landscape and fascinating cul- ture off ered by the fi rst edition of the event to be held in the Middle East and Arab world will guaran- tee a unique experience in 2022. Among the many distinctive fea- tures, travelling fans will have the opportunity to potentially attend more than one match a day dur- ing the group stage, which will feature an exciting schedule with four daily fi xtures, as announced earlier this year. Infrastructure planned for the event has reached 90 per- cent completion, with the three stadiums that have already been fi nalised – Khalifa Interna- HE Hassan al-Thawadi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC). tional, Al Janoub and Education City – safely hosting more than tar’s strong and continued com- Cup ever.” Qatar will host the most com- , which is in the final stage of construction, will host the opening match of the FIFA World 100 matches in 2020 in spite of mitment – under the leadership HE Hassan al-Thawadi, Sec- pact version of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. (Top) Khalifa International Stadium. the Covid-19 pandemic. Three of His Highness the Amir, whom retary-General of the Supreme Cup in modern times. All the sta- more tournament venues are in I personally thank – to hosting Committee for Delivery & Legacy diums are in close proximity to the fi nal stages of construction: an unforgettable FIFA World Cup (SC), added: “We are immensely one another and will be linked by Al Rayyan, Al Bayt and Al Thu- in two years’ time, which will no proud of the progress we have an ultra-modern transport infra- mama. The main works at the re- doubt build a legacy long beyond made over the last ten years. Both structure, meaning short travel maining two stadiums – Ras Abu 2022,” said FIFA President Gianni tournament and national infra- times for fans, players and media. Aboud and Lusail – are set to be Infantino. structure projects are well ad- Visitors will be able to stay in one completed in 2021. “Besides the very important la- vanced, with everything on track location throughout the tourna- Countrywide infrastructure bour reforms recently announced to be completed well ahead of the ment and will not be required to is also being delivered at a rapid by the government, progress has big kick-off . Our legacy projects, take any internal fl ights. The long- pace, including the state-of-the- also been made on stadium con- meanwhile, are already having an est distance between stadiums is art Metro – which was suc- struction, along with the imple- impact on people’s lives in areas 75km (Al Bayt to Al Janoub), while cessfully utilised by fans during mentation of strict measures to such as workers’ rights, educa- the shortest is just 5km (Education the FIFA Club World Cup Qatar protect workers’ health. Dur- tion and entrepreneurship. City to Al Rayyan). 2019 – new roads and the expan- ing my short visit to Doha a few “This is an incredibly important In July, it was confi rmed that sion of Hamad International Air- weeks ago, I witnessed fi rst-hand FIFA World Cup – for Qatar, the the opening match would take port, which is planned to cater how well preparations have ad- region and the world. Qatar 2022 place at the stunning Al Bayt for more than 50 million visitors vanced, and I am looking forward will introduce billions of people to Stadium, a 60,000-capac- a year by 2022. with confi dence to Qatar 2022, the Middle East and Arab world for ity venue designed to resemble a “2020 has surely been a chal- for the transformative impact it the fi rst time, and help to foster a traditional tent used in the Arab lenging year for the entire world, is already having on the country greater understanding and break world. The fi nal will be staged and football was no exception. and the region, for the unique ex- down stereotypes that people may at the 80,000-capacity Lusail Despite the diffi culties, steady perience it will provide fans from have of our country and region. Stadium on December 18, 2022 progress was made in the last few all over the world and, of course, We’re very excited to welcome the – Qatar National Day, which is a is one of the venues that are on track to be completed well before the tournament months, showing yet again Qa- for witnessing the best World world in 2022.” public holiday. kicks off on November 21, 2022. PICTURE: Jayan Orma Gulf Times 2 Saturday, November 21, 2020 TWO YEARS TO GO...

Tournament infrastructure 2 Approximately 90 percent of (SC) is working on a project aimed key component of Qatar’s FIFA the tournament infrastructure at donating the excess seats to World Cup bid – allowing them is complete. Eight stadiums will support initiatives in Qatar and to be used all year round. The host matches during Qatar 2022. overseas. Many of the stadium pre- technology is unpatented, meaning Three of those grounds – Khalifa cincts feature an extensive array of businesses around the world can International, Al Janoub and Educa- community facilities. For example, leverage it for their own benefit. 1 tion City – have been inaugurated. the public parks at Al Janoub and A number of training sites (Team Three more are in the final stages Al Bayt opened earlier this year Base Camps) have been built, with of construction: Al Rayyan, Al Bayt and are used by the local commu- the remainder set to be delivered and Al Thumama. The remaining nity on a daily basis. well in advance of the tournament. two – Ras Abu Aboud and Lusail – Several precincts will feature Some of the training sites were are set to be completed in 2021. shops, restaurants, sporting ameni- used by teams during the 24th Many of the stadiums are modu- ties and civic facilities such as Arabian Gulf Cup and the FIFA Club lar and will have their capacities mosques and hospitals. World Cup Qatar 2019. After Qatar reduced after 2022. The Supreme Most of the stadiums will boast 2022, the training sites will benefit Committee for Delivery & Legacy innovative cooling technology – a local communities and schools. 3

State infrastructure 4

The Doha Metro is up and running, with 37 stations spanning three lines. A single journey costs QR3 (USD0.82), while the price of a day pass is QR6 (USD1.65). Around 500,000 journeys per month are made on the service, which welcomed its ten millionth pas- senger earlier in 2020. A vast number of new roads and expressways have been opened, mak- ing it easy to travel to Al Bayt Stadium (located in Al Khor) and (located in ). By the time the tournament kicks off , Qatar will have developed 22 new ex- pressways, including upgrades across the country. The expansion of Hamad Internation- al Airport remains on track. By 2022, the airport will be equipped to serve more than 50 million passengers per year. In addition, more hotels and tourist attractions are opening every month.

Numbers game

1. Al Bayt Stadium 2. Al Janoub Stadium 3. 4. Al Rayyan Stadium 5. 18-24 75 5 22 6. Khalifa International Stadium degrees celsius kilometres kilometres 5 7. Lusail Stadium Average temperatures longest distance between shortest distance between number of new 8. Ras Abu Aboud Stadium stadiums (Al Bayt and Al stadiums (Education City expressways, including Janoub) and Al Rayyan) upgrades, by 2022 6 7 8 Fan experience

The tournament will take place from November 21, ing and sustainable World Cup – a tournament that 2022 to December 18, 2022. The opening match changes people’s perceptions of the Middle East will be staged at Al Bayt Stadium, with the final be- and Arab world. ing held at Lusail Stadium. The final will take place A string of tournaments are helping to shape the on Qatar National Day, a public holiday. fan experience for 2022. In 2019, Qatar successfully This will be the most compact instalment of the hosted both the 24th Arabian Gulf Cup and the FIFA World Cup in modern history. Fans, players FIFA Club World Cup. Feedback from fans following and off icials will be able to stay in the same accom- the Club World Cup was overwhelmingly positive. modation throughout the tournament. The longest Several events will take place in 2021 as Qatar distance between stadiums is just 75km (Al Bayt to continues to prepare for the FIFA World Cup. The Al Janoub), meaning fans will have the chance to most notable warm-up act will be the inaugural attend more than one match per day if they desire. FIFA pan-Arab tournament, which is scheduled to The weather will be ideal for football and tourists, take place in December 2021 and will feature Arab with average temperatures expected to be 18-24C. nations from Asia and Africa. There will be plenty for fans to enjoy beyond the The FIFA Club World Cup 2020 has also been pitch, including museums, traditional souqs, desert rescheduled and will now be played in Qatar from adventures, beaches and both local and interna- February 1-11, 2021. It will be another important tional cuisine. staging post that will help FIFA and Qatar refine Qatar is determined to host an innovative, welcom- their operational plans ahead of 2022. Katara Cultural Village years to go

Generation Amazing Josoor Institute

Generation Amazing is the SC’s flagship Josoor Institute was launched by the SC “football for development” programme. It in 2013. It is a centre of excellence for harnesses football to teach vital life skills, the sports and events industries. Part of often in disadvantaged communities. Josoor Institute’s mandate is to ensure Generation Amazing has helped develop the knowledge gained from hosting sporting facilities across the world and Qatar 2022 is passed on to the next gen- is currently active in ten countries. The eration of sports and events profession- programme has benefited more than als, both in Qatar and across the region. 500,000 people to date and the goal is to Graduates from Josoor Institute will be reach 1 million beneficiaries by 2022. catalysts in transforming the sports and Challenge 22 events industries by building a legacy and delivering ground-breaking events Challenge 22 is an innovation programme beyond Qatar 2022. organised by the SC that invites entre- preneurs, innovators and start-ups from across the globe to provide solutions that will directly facilitate Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup. Participants are supported through financial grants and by being given access to businesses and organisations that will help deliver their products to market and – ultimately – enhance the fan experience during Qatar 2022. Challenge 22 aims to drive economic diversification, entrepreneur- ship and innovation in Qatar and across the region. In addition, the programme is helping to position Qatar as an innova- tion hub. Gulf Times Saturday, November 21, 2020 3 TWO YEARS TO GO...

Qatar 2022 will Two years to go until the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

be a special First FIFA World Cup™ in the Middle East and Arab world Opening match: 21 November, Al Bayt Stadium experience for Final: 18 December, Lusail Stadium

Eight amazing stadiums

Compact – chance to attend two matches a day fans: Eto’o during the group stage amuel Eto’o believes Longest distance the FIFA World Cup Qa- between venues: 75km tar 2022 will off er many unique and memorable Single ticket on Doha experiencesS for fans when the next edition of football’s show- Metro: US$ 0.82 piece event heads to the Mid- dle East and Arab world in two Mild temperatures: years’ time. 18-24°C In an interview, the former Cameroon international – who serves as a Global Ambassador Carbon-neutral for the Supreme Committee for tournament Delivery & Legacy (SC) – high- lighted some of his favourite places to visit in the country. Landmark labour reforms “I enjoy visiting lots of dif- ferent places when I’m in Qatar. Sometimes, I like to go to the Open your heart to a Villaggio Mall and on other oc- new region and culture casions I enjoy visiting the Ka- tara Cultural Village, which has many shops and restaurants. I also love Banana Island, which is a brilliant holiday destination if you want to get away from it all,” said Eto’o, a four-time Afri- can Player of the Year. “I’m sure Sustainability able energy, environmental protection, urban fans will fi nd many interesting connectivity, biodiversity and urban ecology are places to visit when they arrive for the World Cup. I believe they tired because they won’t have to sess the quality of the players Earlier this year, the SC, FIFA and the FIFA World just some of the focus areas in order to achieve in this magnifi cent country in will be able to have a great time travel to games by plane,” Eto’o that will represent the host na- Cup Qatar 2022 LLC launched a joint Sustainabil- this goal. 2022.” visiting the country and watch- said. “They will be based in the tion in 2022. Qatar will head into ity Strategy and Sustainability Policy. The policy To that end, the SC also signed an agreement with Eto’o’s initial experiences of ing the best players in action same city and have the optimum the tournament as the champi- defines five sustainability commitments accord- the Gulf Organisation for Research & Develop- Qatar were shaped during a brief during the tournament.” time to train and prepare. That ons of Asia – and Eto’o believes ing to five pillars, which range from the human ment (GORD) in 2019. Under the agreement, the playing spell with Qatar Sports Having appeared in four will be good because they will the Maroons have the quality to side to the social, economic, environmental and Global Carbon Trust, part of GORD, has devel- Club during the 2018-19 season. World Cups for Cameroon, be fresher when they take to the shine on a global stage. governance facets. Qatar is committed to deliver- oped assessment standards to measure carbon He believes fans will be amazed Eto’o is aware of the logisti- pitch and compete.” “I expect them to be competi- ing the most sustainable sporting event in history reduction, work with organisations across Qatar by the friendliness of the people cal challenges that players have He added: “The players will tive because they have built a in 2022. One aspect of the plan is to deliver a and the region to implement carbon reduction and the safety of the country. faced in previous tournaments. have the chance to use the best winning mentality by becoming carbon-neutral tournament. Water conservation, projects, and issue carbon credits that off set Qatar is consistently ranked as With Qatar 2022 set to be one of facilities in the world, whether it Asian champions,” said Eto’o. waste management, carbon management, renew- emissions related to Qatar 2022. one of the safest countries in the the most compact World Cups is the spectacular new stadiums “What is important now for Qa- world. ever staged, it will not just be that will host matches or the tar is that they take advantage “I like the people in Qatar, the fans that will benefi t. Play- world-class training facilities. of every opportunity to play the they are open and sincere,” said ers will never be more than One thing is for sure, what the best national teams in the world Eto’o. “I also like the fact you about an hour from any of the players will experience in Qa- and learn from those experienc- always feel safe and secure in eight stadiums and will have the tar will be a reward for their ef- es. They have some good play- Doha and throughout the coun- luxury of staying in the same forts in qualifying for this World ers, including Akram Afi f, who try. These things should off er place throughout the tourna- Cup.” I rate highly. I wish them all the football fans a level of reassur- ment. Eto’o’s time in the Qatar Stars best.” ance when they come to Qatar “The players will not be so League also allowed him to as- (Qatar2022.qa)

Glimpse from the 2020 Workers Cup earlier this year. Workers’ welfare Success stories „A range of heat-stress management measures In 2014, the Workers’ Welfare Standards were have been implemented, including comprehensive introduced by the SC to keep Qatar 2022 workers heat-stress management plans, annual medical safe and healthy. The standards are enforced via a checks and training on heat stress and hydration. robust four-tier audit system designed to ensure „Cooling workwear has also been introduced, maximum protection, including: such as the innovative StayQool suit, which „Self-audits by the contractors reduces the wearer’s skin temperature by up to 8 „SC audits degrees celsius. „Audits by an independent external monitor „More than QR101.8 million (USD 27.9 million) „Inspections by the Qatari Ministry of Adminis- in illegal recruitment fees (charged to workers in trative Development, Labour and Social Aff airs their home countries) will be repaid to workers by contractors over three years. Key statistics (correct as of October 2020): „A medical records management system has „18,988 workers currently on-site been implemented, along with comprehensive „30,000 workers during the peak construction medical checks for all workers. In addition, a nutri- phase (2019) tion programme included health checks, training „Over 358 million hours worked and catering enhancement. „1,235 accommodation inspections „Ninety-six Workers’ Welfare Forums have „2,010 construction-site inspections been established to allow workers to raise their „3,617 ethical-recruitment audits concerns and issues. „16,537 workers interviewed (2017-2020) „Qatar has dismantled the kafala system and introduced a non-discriminatory minimum wage.

Venues status year’s Amir Cup final. with mechanical, electrical and 40,000 fans. plumbing works, plus finishing, updates AL RAYYAN STADIUM are ongoing. LUSAIL STADIUM Capacity: 40,000 Capacity: 80,000 AL BAYT STADIUM Designer: Ramboll EDUCATION CITY STADIUM Designer: Foster + Partners Capacity: 60,000 Update: Recent infrastructure Capacity: 40,000 Update: The stadium’s concrete Designer: Dar Al-Handasah completions include the stadium Designer: FIA Fenwick Iribarren works and bowl steel installation Update: The stadium struc- facade, seating installation and The stadium was inaugurated in have been completed, while the ture has been completed and the playing surface. June 2020. roof big lift has commenced. is ready to host matches. The surrounding Al Bayt Park is also AL THUMAMA STADIUM KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL RAS ABU ABOUD STADIUM open to the public. Capacity: 40,000 STADIUM Capacity: 40,000 Designer: Arab Engineering Capacity: 40,000 Designer: FIA Fenwick Iribarren AL JANOUB STADIUM Bureau On May 19, 2017, Khalifa Interna- Update: The stadium is being Capacity: 40,000 Update: Roof and facade works tional Stadium became the first built using 998 containers. Designer: Dame have been completed, as has FIFA World Cup 2022 stadium The delivery and installation The stadium was inaugurated the stadium’s bleacher instal- to open when it hosted the Amir of all remaining containers are Cooling workwear has also been introduced, such as the innovative StayQool suit. on May 16, 2019, ahead of that lation. Seat installation, along Cup final in front of more than completed. Gulf Times 4 Saturday, November 21, 2020 CRICKET

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Second SA player Covid-19 positive Don’t copy Kohli’s ahead of series against England

Reuters doors that will make the most Cape Town diff erence. style, Harbhajan South Africa coach Mark Boucher said his side were un- ‘I would like to remind second unnamed likely to kneel before matches member of the South as they return to international Rahane that he doesn’t Africa squad preparing cricket for the fi rst time in eight Ato face England in a six- months with a six-match home need to change his match home limited overs series limited overs series against Eng- has tested positive for Covid-19, land starting in Cape Town on tells Rahane offi cials said yesterday. Nov. 27. Boucher explained that game or personality’ The player has been moved his side had numerous discus- Reuters away from the hotel where both sions about racial equality in New Delhi teams are staying and placed in sport over the last few months isolation, while an intra-squad and felt they had reached a point match scheduled for Saturday of unity on the subject as a team. ndia’s Ajinkya Rahane has has been cancelled. The England team stopped the his own personality and it “Cricket South Africa would practice of taking a knee before would be a mistake for him like to reiterate that it will not games in August. to try and copy Virat Kohli’s release names of aff ected players “The situation is very indi- leadershipI style in the fi nal three because of doctor-patient confi - vidual, a lot of the honest work Tests against Australia, former dentiality,” a statement said. going on around the matter will test spinner Harbhajan Singh The positive result came from be done in private,” Jordan told has said. a second round of testing con- reporters yesterday. “The real Regular skipper Kohli, known ducted ahead of the series, South change will come through con- for his animated leadership, will Africa’s fi rst international crick- versations one-on-one with return home after the opening et for eight months. people. day-night test at Adelaide from In the fi rst round of testing “If that is what they (South Dec. 17 to attend the birth of his ahead of the camp, another un- Africa) as an organisation believe fi rst child. named player returned a posi- in then I don’t think it should be The soft-spoken Rahane is tive test and he, along with two judged from any other point of set to captain India for the rest teammates he was in close con- view than it is a personal deci- of the four-Test series and the tact with, were moved into isola- sion. We can move on.” Mumbaikar should try to lead tion. But Jordan reiterated that he the way that comes naturally to England’s round of testing still believes taking a knee is an him, said Harbhajan. conducted on their arrival in important act for sports people, “He’s very calm and com- Cape Town revealed no positive as role models, to show their posed, not so expressive. He’s results. The teams will play three support for BLM. very diff erent to Virat Kohli,” Twenty20 matches and three “One hundred percent. But I Harbhajan, who played 103 Tests One-Day Internationals between am quite open-minded around and 236 one-dayers between Nov. 27 and Dec. 9, starting with the topic in terms of the diff erent 1998-2015, told Sport Tak dig- the shortest format. types of work that can be done. ital channel. All games will be played be- Taking the knee is something “I would like to remind Ra- hind closed doors in either Cape very visual that people see espe- hane that he doesn’t need to Town or nearby Paarl. cially when they turn on sport. change his game or personality. Meanwhile, England all- “But personally, I’m a big be- “Looking at a personality like rounder Chris Jordan believes liever in the real conversations Virat, Rahane might think that there is still much to be gained by that are taking place behind the he has to adopt some of it to teams taking a knee to highlight scenes, especially among our beat Australia. But I don’t think the Black Lives Matter move- group as an England team. It is that’s necessary. ment, but says it is the conver- clear a lot of the real change will “All Rahane needs to do is be sations that go on behind closed come from that.” himself and make sure he gets the best out of his team.” Under Kohli, India beat Aus- OPINION tralia 2-1 in 2018/19, becoming the fi rst Asian side to triumph in a Test series Down Under. Harbhajan had no doubts In- Good idea to leave dia would miss Kohli, also their batting mainstay. “Virat has an unbelievable Boult out of T20 record in Australia, something every batsman aspires. So defi - nitely India is going to miss captain. His aggression, lead- “He always puts his best foot him.” The tour begins in Syd- als, which will be followed by matches: Bond Kohli in the batting unit. ing from the front, that is Virat forward. His body language, his ney on Nov. 27 with the fi rst of an equal number of Twenty20 “Then his experience as Kohli. intent... India is going to miss the three one-day internation- matches. Reuters ing on building back his bowling Wellington loads at the high performance centre outside Christchurch in his sanctioned training sessions Australia sells out India matches, positive news on Adelaide test ace spearhead Trent while in mandatory isolation to Boult needed a small prevent the spread of coronavi- Reuters Fears that the fi rst of four midnight today. Cricket Aus- than 2,000 tickets for one of heritage has always meant break to catch up with rus. Sydney Tests would have to be moved tralia said on Tuesday that it those matches remained avail- bumper crowds whenever India his family and get ready “Part of the thinking of being from Adelaide Oval were was committed to holding the able after two days of sales. tour and the rapid sales will be a forP the Test series against West here together in quarantine is to heightened when South Aus- fi rst Test at Adelaide Oval from The capacities of Sydney boon to the fi nances of Cricket Indies rather than play the three get a bit more volume in terms ickets for six short- tralia went into a strict lock- Dec. 17 but did take the pre- Cricket Ground and Manuka Australia, which were strained Twenty20 matches that start of overs under his belt,” added format matches be- down on Wednesday after a caution of moving some inter- Oval have been reduced by by the global health crisis. next Friday, according to former Bond, who is helping with the tween Australia and cluster of Covid-19 cases in the national players out of South 50% because of rules on social “The rivalry between the New Zealand quick Shane Bond. training sessions. TIndia in November state. Australia ahead of the lock- distancing, although they may Australian and Indian men’s Bond and Boult are cur- “So it gives him a bit of time and December were all but State offi cials said yester- down. yet be loosened as New South cricket teams is one of the rently in managed isolation to get some volume here and in exhausted yesterday, Cricket day that they had based the Australia will host the tour- Wales approaches two weeks greatest in international sport in Christchurch after they re- the week or two before the test Australia said, while there was decision to go into lockdown ists in three Twenty20 matches since the last reported commu- and this series is shaping up turned to New Zealand last week series against the West Indies also some good news about the on misleading information, and three one-day interna- nity case of Covid-19. as an epic,” Cricket Austral- from the IPL in the United Arab starts.” opening match in the Test se- however, and announced that tionals in Sydney and Canberra Australia’s large commu- ia’s Anthony Everard said in a Emirates. Boult is a virtual automatic ries. measures would be eased at before the Test series and fewer nity of people with South Asian statement. Boult and captain Kane Wil- selection for New Zealand’s liamson were both left out of squad for next year’s Twenty20 New Zealand’s Twenty20 squad World Cup in India and it was to concentrate on the tests that important that coach Gary Stead BOTTOMLINE start on Dec. 3. and selector Gavin Larsen got “To fl y out of here and go a look at other players against straight into games without see- West Indies, Bond added. ing his family would have been a “I think you’ve got to use the massive mistake,” Bond said on a games coming up to fi nd out who conference call yesterday. may be the support act for him in Mental health break put Maxwell in “I think for his own sanity he and around that T20 World Cup needs to get home and spend a team,” Bond said. bit of time with his family before “There’s no problem from my another busy summer.” perspective giving those other Bond added that after not guys like Kyle Jamieson an op- good shape to cope with pandemic having played long-form cricket portunity to see what they’ve since March, Boult was work- got.”

Reuters Maxwell withdrew from and be able to get myself through Melbourne cricket early in the last those tough times has been key home summer before as well.” The hard-hitting all- returning in the Big Bash rounder was the second-most ex- lenn Maxwell’s break League in January and pensive foreign player in the IPL from cricket a year ago has played his cricket in behind Australia team mate Pat to deal with mental biosecure “hubs” since the Cummins but had a quiet tourna- Ghealth issues proved pandemic hit. ment by his standards. He scored timely in helping him build the 108 runs at an average of 15.42 for tools to handle the stresses of the players but Maxwell said he now Kings XI Punjab and did not hit a Covid-19 pandemic, the Australia felt better able to cope with them. six the whole tournament. batsman said yesterday. “In hindsight it was probably That has raised queries about Maxwell withdrew from cricket a pretty good time to go through his form leading into the India early in the last home summer something like that where I was series, but Maxwell, who scored before returning in the Big Bash able to put some groundwork in to a brilliant 108 against England’s League in January and has played deal with adversity,” the 32-year- one-day side in September, was his cricket in biosecure “hubs” old told reporters of his break last unperturbed. since the pandemic hit. summer. “I came from arguably one of Having just played the Indian “And this year has certainly the best innings I have ever played Premier League (IPL) in a bub- been a massive test, to put some in my career (in England) to not ble in the United Arab Emirates, of my learnings to use and help being able to clear the ropes. I Maxwell is back in quarantine in other people through that and be don’t take too much out of that,” Australia ahead of the white-ball a shoulder for other people to lean he said. series against India which starts on. “With what I went through last with a one-day game in Sydney “That’s something I didn’t ex- year I think I’m better equipped at on Nov. 27. India’s tour will mean pect last year but to be able to dealing with those sorts of things further biosecurity demands on help people through tough times now.” Gulf Times Saturday, November 21, 2020 5 FOOTBALL

ASIAN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SPOTLIGHT Rooney says children should Ulsan, Shenhua be banned from heading ball AFP London

ngland’s record goals- corer Wayne Rooney says children should be banned from heading urged to rise to theE ball, following the example of the United States, to reduce the chances of getting dementia later in life. Former Barcelona and Eng- land star Gary Lineker and 1966 World Cup winner Geoff Hurst are among leading names who the challenges have called for new regulations to prevent children heading balls. A study carried out in Scot- ‘I am happy we can still play the games despite Covid-19’ land concluded professional footballers are around three and AFC a half times more likely to die of Doha dementia than the general popu- lation. Rooney told the Daily Tel- lsan Hyundai head egraph he witnessed the US rules coach Kim Do-hoon fi rst hand with his son Kai when and Shanghai Shen- he played for MLS franchise DC Uhua counterpart Choi United. Kang-hee challenged their re- “When we lived in the States, spective sides to perform well my eldest boy was in a football in the 2020 AFC Champions team and heading was banned League despite the hardships in training and in games,” said brought on by the Covid-19 Rooney, who is now interim pandemic ahead of the two player-manager of Champion- teams’ Group F clash today. ship side Derby. “But obviously heading could welcome,” he said. The South Korean outfi t “If the ball was coming to their be one of those risk factors and “It’s true that 40 years ago, picked up a point from a 1-1 head, they moved away from it that’s why we put in place all the when I played, there was not the draw against FC Tokyo back in and let it run through, so maybe guidelines we have with regards control that the players have in February, needing a late own that’s something that could hap- to youth football, which I think this period. goal from the opposition to se- pen on a more regular basis over are actually tougher than any “The players now are more cure the draw. here. other country in the world.” controlled.” Shanghai Shenhua, mean- “Clearly, something needs to Rooney’s former United team- Hurst said this week he would while, have three points to their change to make sure this doesn’t mate, Newcastle manager Steve be willing to donate his brain for name having got off to a 2-1 win- happen to the next generation of Bruce, was a renowned header of research, because several of his ning start against Perth Glory on players when young men are dy- the ball. Yesterday he welcomed 1966 team-mates have died due Wednesday. ing of this disease.” the PFA’s announcement they to dementia. “I am happy we can still play Lawyers have confi rmed an are setting up a taskforce to look Nobby Stiles is the latest to the games despite Covid-19,” Shenhua’s midfielder Yu Hanchao (#11) celebrates his goal with teammates during their AFC action has begun on behalf of into the matter. have died of dementia-related said Kim. “We are under pres- Champions League group F football against Australia’s Perth Glory on Wednesday. former players suff ering with the “In my career, and every day causes last month and his Man- sure and feel a little bit worried, neurodegenerative disease, who when I was young we headed a chester United team-mate Bob- but we are very proud we could the pitch and we will not think will follow the guidelines and they beat Ulsan Hyundai. plan to seek compensation from ball in the gym and we ran out- by Charlton has been diagnosed represent South Korea in this about losing tomorrow.” will be able to join us soon. The “Under a diffi cult situation, organisations understood to in- side and repeated it hour after with it. competition. Ulsan Hyundai are without other three players are here now. we achieved victory in the fi rst clude the Football Association. hour,” Bruce said. Present United manager Ole “We have to prepare well and the services of goalkeeper Jo They are fi t to play but their game,” said the 61-year-old. However, Mark Bullingham, “There is a genuine concern, Gunnar Solskjaer said football work hard to give a good account Hyeon-woo who tested positive health is the most important “I feel we have already adapt- FA chief executive, says despite when you see players before my had a duty of care to the present of ourselves. We expect a tough for Covid-19 while on inter- thing for us, so they are quaran- ed to the new environment in the fi ndings of the Scottish study era, so why wouldn’t it aff ect my and future generation of players. game, but we will work hard to national duty, while his fellow tined individually at the hotel. Doha and overcome jet lag. The — which the FA and the Profes- era?” “We have seen it close-hand show our quality. club and country teammates They should have no problem fi rst match is always the most sional Footballers’ Association Carlo Ancelotti enjoyed a dis- with Nobby and Sir Bobby “Shanghai Shenhua are in Kim Tae-hwan, Jung Seung- playing football as long as we diffi cult but since we’ve already (PFA) co-funded — it is “not en- tinguished playing career win- (Charlton),” Solskjaer said. a more advanced stage having hyun and Won Du-jae remain in adhere to the guidelines.” won, we think we will do well in tirely clear cut” what causes the ning the European Cup twice “It is a serious issue. I need to played here already but we have precautionary isolation, having Compatriot Choi has already the second match. Ulsan have increased risk. with the great AC Milan side. learn more about it, so we can a lot of players with overseas ex- tested negative after arriving to led his Shanghai Shenhua team strong players in every position, “My mother suff ers from it However, the Everton manager help raise discussions. perience and a lot of quality in Qatar from the Korea Republic to their fi rst three points earlier especially foreign players like (dementia). I see it fi rst hand. It’s says players are more cosseted “Progress has to be made. our squad too, so we are hopeful training camp in Austria. in the week and they could po- Junior [Negrao]. We still have to horrible,” he said. these days than in his time. Do we adjust training for kids? we can overcome this situation. “Jo is trying to follow the pro- tentially leapfrog FC Tokyo into do our best to put in a good per- “I don’t think it’s entirely clear “Of course, every research Football has a big responsibility We want to show our quality on tocols in Austria. We hope he fi rst place in the group should formance. cut to identify the risk factors. they do for this (dementia) is here.”

PREVIEW COMMENT Beijing fi t and ready to face FC Seoul Klopp sympathetic over

optimism around the club, de- absentee in the Beijing squad. ‘social pressure’ on Salah spite what has been a challeng- Génésio said the club had ing 2020. prioritised the health of the AFP top-of-the-table Leicester. “When you start a competi- squad over the availability of the London Liverpool’s defence has been tion, you must have ambition former Villareal man, who has decimated by injury with cen- to win, no matter what com- contributed more than 50 goals tre-backs Virgil van Dijk and Joe petition it is,” said the former in 71 appearances for Beijing. urgen Klopp insisted his Gomez expected to miss the rest Olympique Lyonnais boss. “We “Cedric Bakambu personally players have been “in- of the season with serious knee had lots of diffi culties this year, wanted to go back to his national credibly disciplined” with injuries. for example, we couldn’t see our team to play in very important Jcoronavirus restrictions Trent Alexander-Arnold will families for a long time, but we matches for his country, so we despite Mohamed Salah test- be out for another two weeks due have to be strong. respected what he wanted,” said ing positive after attending his to a calf problem, while captain “We have come here, and the Génésio. brother’s wedding in Egypt. Jordan Henderson will also miss fi rst objective, of course, is to “Secondly, I spoke with the Salah was pictured dancing at party when home in Germany tomorrow’s clash due to a muscle qualify from the group. We will club, and we didn’t want to take the celebration without a mask over the summer and under- problem. try to win the games with all the any risks in terms of COVID-19, on while back in his homeland stands why Salah had to attend “There is no season when you ambition, and I think our ad- so for the interests of the teams during the international break. the wedding. have no problem with injuries,” vantage is that we just fi nished and for the players as well, we Klopp confi rmed Liverpool’s “In other countries, in other said Klopp. “In our situation it our Chinese Super League. decided to take his name off the top scorer this season is asymp- situations, there is more social is slightly diff erent where a lot “Our team has a good rhythm list, but it was a very diffi cult tomatic and could return to pressure on you and a brother’s of players in the same position AFC campaign under their belt, the compared to the other teams (in decision for me.” England today, but Salah will wedding is a very special mo- get injured and seriously injured, Doha Chinese outfi t are confi dent of the group), and we’ll try to do as On a more promising note for miss tomorrow’s Premier League ment,” he added. that makes it tricky, but no one mounting a challenge in a com- well as possible here.” Beijing fans, Spanish star and clash against Leicester. “What I can say about my feels any kind of self-pity or feels petition where they have been While the club from the Chi- Jonathan Viera and Li Ke (pic- “He is probably back soon, players is they are incredibly dis- sorry for ourselves. eijing FC are fresh, regular participants, but rarely nese capital arrive having beaten tured above), formerly known that’s what I’ve heard. We are in ciplined. Football players in gen- “As long as we have 11 play- match-fi t and ready to serious contenders. Shanghai SIPG to fi nish third in as Nico Yennaris, appear to be close contact with him all of the eral were incredibly disciplined. ers available we will fi ght for the win when they resume With three points in the bank their domestic league just over a emerging from their respective time,” said Klopp. “At the mo- “There were some cases of three points and we will. their 2020 AFC Cham- from their earlier hit out against week ago, Génésio is not with- injury clouds, although their ment he is in a good place, he course, but they really know “We have the situation we pionsB League campaign against Chiangrai United, Génésio’s out his selection headaches. boss stopped short from declar- feels well, no symptoms, that’s about the situation.” have. We don’t like it because it’s FC Seoul today, according to charges will have the opportu- Cedric Bakambu, the Congo- ing them fi t to take on FC Seoul. all fi ne.” Salah’s absence is just the lat- really hard for the boys that have head coach Bruno Génésio. nity to rise to the top of Group lese striker who lit up the Chi- “They’ve coming along very Klopp said he had to resist the est blow for Klopp as he tries to the injuries but the rest is about Out of action on the conti- E with a win at Education City nese Super League with 14 goals well. They’ve already been temptation to attend a birthday patch together a team to face working on solutions.” nental stage since February, but Stadium, and the Frenchman in 19 matches in the 2020 cam- training with the team for four with a full Chinese Super League declared there was a sense of paign, is the most conspicuous days,” Génésio. declared

BOTTOMLINE Arsenal’s Partey out of Leeds clash

Reuters asking the Premier League to increase the number London of substitutes they can use to five to reduce player Koeman defends Messi, denies problems fatigue. Clubs in the English Football League (EFL) will now be permitted to make five substitutions in Reuters mann). It smacks of a lack of respect,” he told above the Catalans. rsenal midfi elder Thomas Partey is matches in light of the congested schedule caused Madrid a news conference on Friday. “It’s an important game, both for our unavailable for tomorrow’s Premier by the coronavirus pandemic. “I know you might be looking for a prob- mindset and also the points that are avail- League fi xture against Leeds United as “We have to protect (players) as much as possible, lem, but in the changing rooms I’ve never able,” Koeman said. Ahe is still recovering from a thigh in- they are the protagonists in this industry,” the arcelona coach Ronald Koeman has seen any notion of a bad relationship be- “We’re on the right track. Atletico are a jury, manager Mikel Arteta said yesterday. Spanish manager said. played down notions of a rift be- tween those two.” side who know how to play in diff erent ways, Partey was substituted at halftime during Arsenal’s “We have to modify the rules and make them a tween club great Lionel Messi and Koeman said that Messi — whose contract depending on who the opponent is, just like 3-0 defeat by Aston Villa earlier this month with a little more flexible to give them a better opportu- fellow forward Antoine Griezmann. expires next summer and who has once again Barca do.” The Dutchman also criticised the thigh strain and did not play for Ghana during the nity to be fit, physically and mentally. Let’s just do BEarlier this month Griezmann’s former been linked with a move to Manchester City avalanche of games his side are facing, with international break. it, please.” Arsenal are short of options in midfield agent, Eric Olhats, told Football that after their coach Pep Guardiola signed a new the visit to Atletico the fi rst of 10 matches in “We knew it was a significant injury. He’s done very with Mohamed Elneny currently isolating after the Argentine had a problem with his ex-cli- contract — will be the one who decides his 32 days, on the back of an international break well and he’s working very hard, he wants to be testing positive for Covid-19, while there is concern ent, leading Messi to snap at journalists upon future. “I hope he will stay in Barcelona; it’s when countries played three times. available,” Arteta told reporters. about fatigue for Bukayo Saka who played three his return from international duty. unbelievable what he did for this club. But he “Above all for the big sides it’s a really hec- “Hopefully we can get him back soon but it’s an times for England in seven days. When asked about the subject ahead of is the main person to know and make the de- tic schedule,” he said. “It’s not good to have area where we need to be careful and we need to “I have to see him today, how he’s looking and how Saturday’s visit to Atletico Madrid, Koeman cision about his future,” he said. three international matches instead of two. I be protective with the player.” he’s feeling. He’s a 19-year-old kid whose played a said the duo get along. “I can understand Koeman will be without Ansu Fati, Samuel was an international coach and I never took With injuries a cause for concern for many clubs, lot of football in the past few months,” Arteta said why Leo (Messi) snapped. After such a long Umtiti, Sergio Busquets and Ronald Araujo risks with a player: I’d always think about the Arteta also joined the chorus of club managers on Saka. journey you’re asked about Antoine (Griez- for the trip to Atletico, who sit six points club, too.” Gulf Times 6 Saturday, November 21, 2020 RUGBY

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Pumas look for improvement in France Test requires Wallabies Test

Reuters our game plan and our kicking Sydney game and control the tempo of the game.” Key to that will be the kicking of fl yhalf Nico- rgentina coach Mario las Sanchez, who scored all of best of the Scots, says Ledesma believes his Argentina’s points against the players played to the All Blacks. “I hope he scores best of their abilities the same number of points inA their breakthrough win over he scored on the weekend,” New Zealand last weekend but Ledesma said. will still be looking for im- “Nico was validating the provement against Australia in work that the whole team was Newcastle yesterday. doing. I think the performance coach Townsend The Pumas sent shockwaves has to be collective and that’s around the rugby world with what we’re aiming for.” their 25-15 dismantling of the Sanchez will have a new ‘FRANCE ARE FULL OF CONFIDENCE AND HAVE PLAYED REALLY WELL THIS YEAR’ All Blacks in Sydney in their halfback partner, however, af- fi rst Test for more than a year ter scrumhalf Tomas Cubelli but there was no question of was a late withdrawal from the AFP resting on their laurels for their team because of injury. Gonza- second Tri-Nations outing. lo Bertranou will move up from “We played to 100% of what the bench and Felipe Excurra we were capable of and some has joined the matchday squad regor Townsend says of the boys maybe over 100,” as cover. Scotland will need to be Ledesma said this week as he “close to their best” if prepared his team for what he HOOPER SEEKING STEP they are to beat France hopes will be a third win over TOWARD SILVERWARE ON Gtomorrow and become only the the Wallabies on Australian NEWCASTLE RETURN third Scottish side since 1900 to soil in 17 attempts. More than 100 tests later, Aus- win six successive Tests. “The most important thing tralia captain Michael Hooper The Scots already number Fa- is to have a growth mindset will return to the scene of his bien Galthie’s much-improved and keep improving not only whirlwind debut on Saturday French side among the fi ve teams from day to day but each train- when the Wallabies host Ar- they have beaten – having been ing (session). gentina in Newcastle. the only side to defeat France in “And I think that’s very The durable fl anker featured the Six Nations. present in our players and for only about 10 minutes in The French did not enhance yeah, we want to improve eve- his fi rst match in 2012, which their cause that day at Murray- rything.” was played in some of the most fi eld in March with prop Mo- Former Wallabies coach wretched conditions seen in hamed Haouas being sent off Michael Cheika will be in Pu- test rugby as the Wallabies before half-time. mas pale blue yesterday at suff ered a shock 9-6 loss to Only twice have Scotland won Hunter Stadium and will un- Scotland. six Tests in a row since 1900 doubtedly have helped Ledes- Former Australia captain (1925/26 and 1989/90). ma run the rule over Dave Ren- David Pocock ended up need- “France are full of confi dence nie’s Australia side, who also ing treatment for hypothermia and have played really well this beat the All Blacks in their last after battling through the cy- year,” said Townsend after nam- Test. clonic wind and sheets of rain, ing the starting XV for the Au- “I think it’s a very balanced and test rugby never returned tumn Nations Cup clash. team,” Ledesma added. to the port city until this week. “We know we’re playing one “It’s been a couple of years “It’s weird your debut night, of the best teams in the world already where they’ve had a because it goes so quick, it’s right now, so to rise to this chal- (good) set-piece – lineout, over in a fl ash,” Hooper told lenge we’re going to have to play driving maul, scrum – and ob- reporters on Friday. close to our best throughout the viously off ensive threats... “I was on the fi eld for all of contest on Sunday.” “The threats are coming nine or 10 minutes in some of Townsend has made fi ve from many diff erent places and the worst conditions I’ve ever changes to the starting XV from we’ve got to be spot on with played in – and the loss.” the one that defeated Italy in their opening last weekend. England, France drawn in same pool is the only change to the starting back di- for women’s World Cup vision as he replaces Edinburgh team-mate . Top-ranked England and Asia and Europe in Pool B for Townsend has named a whole France have been drawn in the September 18-October 16, new front row from the one that the same pool for next year’s 2021 tournament. faced the Italians with the expe- women’s Rugby World Cup, New Zealand Prime Minister rienced Fraser Brown returning Maitland, who scored a brace of ers to perform and for coaches when given the chance to play,” , Scott Cummings; while hosts New Zealand were Jacinda Ardern, who attended as hooker having recovered from tries in the win back in March. to appraise them ahead of next said Townsend. , Fraser Brown, drawn with trans-Tasman the draw, said the tournament injury. Props and Si- His clubmate Duncan Taylor year’s Six Nations. Oli Kebble neighbours Australia at a cer- would take on added signifi- mon Berghan also come in whilst – who last featured for Scot- “The Autumn Nations Cup is TEAM (15-1) Replacements: George Turner, emony in Auckland yesterday. cance for rugby and women’s the fi fth and fi nal change is Matt land against Russia in last year’s all about opportunity – the op- (capt); Blair King- , , Third-ranked Canada and sport. “Pre-Covid-19 this Fagerson returning at No8 hav- World Cup – joins him on the portunity to play in a new com- horn, Chris Harris, Sam Johnson, Sam Skinner, , inaugural champions the tournament was going to be ing been out injured. bench. petition and the opportunity for Duhan van der Merwe; Duncan Sam Hidalgo-Clyne, Duncan United States will be in Pool important to New Zealand,” The bench is re-enforced with Townsend said the tourna- us as coaches to see how a large Weir, ; , Taylor, B for the 12-team tourna- Ardern said. “Now it takes on the recall of Saracens wing Sean ment is a good chance for play- number of our squad perform Hamish Watson, ; Coach: (SCO) ment which will be held in a extra special dimension for the southern hemisphere for the whole world. the first time. “It is interesting “This is huge for us. I would how the pools have come like to think that we are trying French coach Galthie calls up Jalibert and Ramos for Murrayfi eld out,” New Zealand captain to show leadership around Eloise Blackwell said. “We women in sport. Exciting Bordeaux-Begles fly-half Ramos return at full-back for the revamp and there is a first start with the clubs means burgh was in 2014. have an Australasian pool, “We need to demonstrate Matthieu Jalibert returns to the injured and for Lyon flanker , players can only make three ap- North American and Euro- that people want to come out France team that takes on Scot- taking over Ntamack’s goalkick- who has made four previous ap- pearances for Les Bleus during France team pean. “Every time we come and support our Black Ferns land at Murrayfield in the Au- ing duties. “That will allow Mat- pearances from the bench. the autumn tests -- they have (15 to 1) up against Australia it is a because they are exceptional tumn Nations Cup, coach Fabien thieu Jalibert to focus on his role “Since the start of our adventure, already played Wales, in a warm- Thomas Ramos; Teddy Thomas, massive battle. athletes, not women athletes, Galthie announced yesterday. as a key player, a pivotal player, on February 2 against England, up, and Ireland. , Gael Fickou, “But we’re not going to be athletes.” The 22-year-old, whose only both in attack and defence,” said we have worked with these They are due to face Italy next ; Matthieu defending the title, we’re out The seedings were based on previous start came in the 15-13 Galthie. players as finishers,” explained week and then play a classifica- Jalibert, ; there to win it.” rankings from Jan. 1, 2020 as defeat by Ireland in the 2018 Six Gael Fickou moves to centre to Galthie. “They have always had tion game in early December. Jean-Baptiste Gros, Camille Two-times winners England restrictions imposed to halt Nations, takes over from Romain make way for Teddy Thomas on to respond to diff erent situa- France’s first match in the Au- Chat, , Bernard and fourth-ranked France will the spread of the coronavirus Ntamack who has a thigh injury. the wing. tions, emergency situations. tumn Nations Cup was cancelled Le Roux, Romain Taofifenua, be joined by Fiji and South meant none of the southern “He (Jalibert) has the chance to Rewarding some of his habitual They deserve to start.” because of coronavirus with the Dylan Cretin, Africa in Pool C. Ninth-ranked hemisphere teams were able start and that’s what he wanted replacement, Galthie has made Toulon’s 21-year-old fly-half Louis Fiji team. (captain), Gregory Alldritt Wales and the team that wins to play this year. as well. This is Matthieu Jalibert’s eight changes in total from the Carbonel is named on the bench Galthie’s team head to Mur- Replacements: Julien March- the final qualifying tourna- Matches will be held in Auck- time,” said Galthie. side that beat Ireland 35-27 in for the first time. rayfield on the back of four suc- and, , Mohamed Ha- ment will join the Black Ferns land and Whangarei, with Jalibert will link up with Antoine the delayed closing Six Nations It will be Galthie’s last chance to cessive defeats there, including ouas, Paul Willemse, Cameron and Wallaroos in Pool A. the final at Eden Park, which Dupont at half-back in a back game at the end of October. name a team without restriction, a 28-17 loss in the Six Nations Woki, , Louis The North American sides will hosted the 1987 and 2011 line that also sees Thomas The front row has had a total other than injury. A deal made in March. Their last win in Edin- Carbonel, Arhtur Vincent. be joined by qualifiers from men’s World Cup finals.

English Premiership clubs agree to lower NATIONS CUP salary cap for 2020-21 season English Premiership clubs have agreed cap in November 2019... presented us Wales plan to knock Georgia off stride early to reduce the salary cap for the 2020-21 with a perfect springboard to under- season, with spending limited to 6.4 mil- take an independently-led review into Reuters we start well and attack them. lion pounds ($8.49 million), Premiership the cap in order to further strengthen Llanelli, Wales We cannot just expect a win is Rugby said yesterday. the system,” Premiership Rugby Chief going to come, we are going to The cap will be further reduced to 5 mil- Executive Darren Childs said in a state- have to go hard out there.” lion pounds for the 2021-22 campaign. ment https://www.premiershiprugby. ales need to put Tipuric skippers a much- Teams will be allowed to spend com/news/new-salary-cap-regulation- Georgia off their changed side from last Friday’s 600,000 pounds on home grown for-2020-21-and-2021-22-published on stride early if they 32-9 loss in Dublin to Ireland, players that will not count towards the Friday. are to win their Na- where another defeat heaped Wtions Cup clash today and end a further pressure on coach Wayne salary cap, as well as 80,000 pounds on “This review included substantial public individual foreign players to cover for consultation, and game-wide interviews six Test losing streak, said cap- Pivac and his squad. “The boys absences during international periods. helping us to put in place the right set tain Justin Tipuric on the eve are frustrated, no one likes los- A total of 400,000 pounds can be of powers, obligations and sanctions for of the match at Parc y in ing, but it shows that everyone spent on replacement players to cover the long-term benefit of the sport.” Llanelli. cares. We want to get better, for long term injuries, while the salaries Teams that breach salary cap rules can “It will be hard graft up front. we don’t want to be losing. It’s of two senior players will be excluded be docked 50 points and incur severe We know it’s going to be hard about knuckling down and get- from the cap. financial penalties based on the size of and physical and to get the backs ting better,” Tipuric added. The new regulations follow a compre- the breach. The clubs can also face rel- involved in the game we are go- Wales have a second string out hensive review led by former gov- egation and be stripped of their titles, ing to need to perform up front,” against Georgia, including a fi rst ernment minister Paul Myners, who the Premiership said. he told a news conference yes- cap for James Botham, grand- proposed an overhaul of the salary cap. Premiership Rugby will also be allowed terday. “If you let them into the son of England cricket great Ian The review was initiated after Saracens to access texts, e-mails and bank state- game, and they get confi dent, Botham. Wales beat Georgia were relegated from the Premiership in ments of players and club off icials to and if their set-piece is domi- 43-14 at last year’s World Cup January for persistent breaches. maintain the integrity of the system. nant, and they get a few driving in Japan but three years ago were “The strong endorsement of the salary (Reuters) mauls going, they are a diff erent almost upset as they edged home animal, so we need to make sure 13-6 in a test in Cardiff . Gulf Times Saturday, November 21, 2020 7 SPORT

r QATAR VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE: QATAR SC BEAT AL GHARAFA, AL ARABI BEAT AL AHLI

Qatar SC defeated Al Gharafa 3-2 (25-20, 21-25, 25-22, 22-25, 15-10) in their Qatar Volleyball League match at the Al Arabi Indoor Hall yesterday. (Right) In the second match of the day, Al Arabi defeated Al Ahli 3-2 (25-21, 25-22, 24-26, 20-25, 15-10).

TENNIS MOTORSPORT Ogier puts off retirement and opts Djoko beats Zverev to stay at Toyota

Reuters but enough for me to see that Paris I really enjoy working with the team, I enjoy driving this car,” said Ogier, who had planned to ix times world rally retire at the end of 2020. to reach semis at champion Sebastien “The fact that I had to spend Ogier announced yes- like most people a lot of time at terday he had shelved home this year, I didn’t do the retirementS plans and signed up last season that I had expected for another year with Toyota to do and to end my career with ‘The Serbian will face US Open after a Covid-19 aff ected 2020 such a strange season was not season. great. “So, for sure, that was champ Thiem in today’s semi-final’ The 36-year-old French- one of the reasons to change ATP Finals man is still in the running for my mind about my retirement. a seventh title but is 14 points The plan is to keep pushing in AFP the pressure was back on the behind Welsh team mate Elfyn 2021 and hopefully have a bet- London German, who faltered to hand Evans with one round remain- ter, normal season and try to the Serbian victory. ing, the Monza Rally in Italy push for a last title.” The top seed said he had man- next month. Ogier won four titles with ovak Djokovic out- aged to fi nd the right shots at The season has been limited Volkswagen from 2013-16 and battled Alexander the right time, in contrast to his to just seven rounds due to the then two with M-Sport Ford in Zverev to qualify for performance against Medvedev, pandemic, with Ogier winning 2017-18. He has won 48 world the last four at the ATP saying it was “anybody’s game in Mexico in March. championship rallies. NFinals yesterday, staying on track for most of the match”. “We have had a short sea- He joined Toyota from Cit- to match Roger Federer’s record He said Thiem, who won his son with only a few rallies, roen at the end of last year. of six titles at the end-of-season fi rst Grand Slam at the US Open event. in September, would be a tough The Serbian top seed, who opponent. was beaten comprehensively by “Obviously earlier in his ca- Daniil Medvedev in his second reer he played his best on clay round-robin match, was again but of course being one of the below his best at London’s O2 hardest workers on the tour, the Arena but did enough to win 6-3, most dedicated players, Dominic 7-6 (7/4). found his ‘A’ game on all other The fi ve-time winner fi nishes surfaces,” added Djokovic. second in Group Tokyo 2020 “His fi rst Slam came on hard behind Medvedev and will play courts earlier this year in New third-seed Dominic Thiem in York. I played him last year here the semi-fi nals today. - I lost 7-6 in the third set. It was Second-seed Rafael Nad- really a thrilling match. Hope- al, seeking his fi rst win at the fully we can have another great elite eight-man event, will face match but this time with a dif- Medvedev in the other semi- ferent outcome.” fi nal after fi nishing second in Djokovic, who recently Group London 2020. equalled Pete Sampras’s record Djokovic broke Germany’s of six year-end world number Zverev at the fi rst time of asking one fi nishes, has the chance to in the empty stadium and raced end the coronavirus-truncated into a 3-0 lead, threatening to 2020 season on a high by joining run away with the match - a the absent Federer on six titles. repeat of the 2018 fi nal, which Medvedev will take on eighth- Zverev won in straight sets. seed Diego Schwartzman, in the The 33-year-old looked fo- evening match, which is a dead cused after his uncharacteristic rubber. Sebastien Ogier (also inset) and co-driver Julien Ingrassia of mauling by Medvedev, serving The O2 Arena is hosting the France compete in a Toyota Yaris WRC at the FIA World Rally himself out of trouble when he event for the 12th and fi nal sea- Championship in Torsby, Sweden, on February 16, 2020. (Reuters) found himself trailing 15-40 in son before the championships the seventh game. move to Turin. That proved to be the last chance for Zverev in the set and RESULTS F1 should talk more about mental 17-time Grand Slam winner Singles health, says Norris Djokovic hammered a backhand Group Tokyo 1970 winner down the line to take it Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) bt McLaren’s Lando Norris spoke something I had dreamt of 6-3. Alexander Zverev (GER x5) 6-3, on Thursday of the anxiety ever since I began racing, I Djokovic handed Zverev a 7-6 (7/4) and nerves he suff ered in found myself questioning my break point in the fourth game Doubles his 2019 Formula One rookie own self-belief: worrying if I of the second set after double- Serbia’s Novak Djokovic in action during his group stage match against Germany’s Alexander Zverev at Group Bob Bryan campaign and said the sport had what it took, comparing faulting but the German could the ATP Finals in London’s O2 Arena yesterday. (Reuters) Mate Pavic/Bruno Soares (CRO/ needed to talk more openly myself with my team mate not capitalise. BRA x1) bt John Peers/Michael about mental health. and other drivers. “It screws The 23-year-old fi fth seed serve in the following game, let- in front. Zverev earned an early mini- Venus (AUS/NZL x6) 6-7 (2/7), The Briton, who turned 21 last with your head. It’s tough to saved two break points on his ting out a roar as he kept his nose The set went to a tie-break. break but Djokovic levelled and 6-3, 10-8. week, made a strong start to deal with and I’m sure many this season with third place other drivers have struggled in Austria as well as fastest with it in the past.” MOTOGP lap but it was a diff erent story Norris said nobody wanted last year when he came in to give rivals an edge by as a teenager. Norris, who showing weakness but that has built a sizeable following meant “we don’t talk about Zarco quickest in practice ahead of fi nale in Portugal through his esports engage- mental health as much as ment and playful personality, we should - and we really AFP Vinales will happy with an en- for grabs this weekend while a ian Jack Miller and Franco Mor- Combined fastest times at the said he had put on a brave should”. Norris is eighth in the Portimao, Portugal couraging showing though as he new race winner would make bidelli taking the last Q2 spots in Portugal MotoGP: face. 2020 championship with one looks to win a six-way battle for it 10 for the season, beating the ninth and tenth. 1. Johann Zarco (FRA/Ducati) “I might have looked like the point less than Ferrari-bound second place in the standings, all-time record. Miguel Oliveira made the 1:39.417, 2. Maverick Vinales new kid on the block full of team mate Carlos Sainz. rance’s Johann Zarco after his compatriot Joan Mir se- Aleix Espargaro is among most of home comforts to clock (ESP/Yamaha) at 0.119sec, 3. confidence and enthusiasm The Briton said he had used a claimed the fastest time cured the World Championship those hoping to claim that hon- the fastest time in the morning Aleix Espargaro (ESP/Aprilia) but that really wasn’t the mind coach for several years in practice yesterday last weekend in Valencia. our and he completed the top session but faded in the after- 0.228, 4. Fabio Quartararo (FRA/ case,” he said on a blog pub- until the end of last season. ahead of tomorrow’s fi - Mir posted the sixth fast- three in practice, ahead of Fa- noon and ended up sitting 13th. Yamaha) 0.275, 5. Brad Binder lished on the McLaren team “This year I felt confident Fnal MotoGP race of the season in est practice time as the Suzuki bio Quartararo and KTM’s Brad Nine-time champion Valen- (RSA/KTM) 0.280, 6. Joan Mir website (www.mclaren.com) enough to take more respon- Portugal. rider looks to add a fi nal fl our- Binder, in fourth and fi fth re- tino Rossi, who is making his (ESP/Suzuki) 0.315, 7. Andrea to mark International Men’s sibility for my own mental Zarco on the Avintia Ducati ish to his maiden title, which spectively. last appearance for Yamaha’s Dovizioso (ITA/Ducati) 0.324, 8. Day. “I covered up the fact health,” he said. was pushed hard by Spaniard made him the fi rst new MotoGP Andrea Dovizioso and Pol factory team before leaving for Pol Espargaro (ESP/KTM) 0.366, that I was struggling a lot with “I think it’s all part of the Maverick Vinales at Portimao champion since Marc Marquez Espargaro, who are also in con- the satellite Petronas team in 9. Jack Miller (AUS/Ducati- nerves and anxiety. growing process.” but was just slightly quicker in 2013. tention for the runner-up spot, 2021, suff ered a fall and nishedfi Pramac) 0.403, 10. Franco Mor- “Despite making it to F1, (Reuters) with a time of 1min 39.417sec. But second place remains up came after Mir, with Austral- 21st. bidelli (ITA/Yamaha) 0.471.

Saturday, November 21, 2020 GULF TIMES SPORT

LONGINES HATHAB

Mohamed Khalifa Albaker and his mount Verona en route to winning the Medium Tour class at the Qatar Equestrian Tour - Longines Hathab Supported By The Social and Sport Contribution yesterday. Salman Mohamed al-Emadi astride Zorro Z finished second, followed by Cyrine Cherif and Brennus Villelongue in third. The Small Tour class was won by Khalifa Abdulla al-Khaldi (R) with Dusty at Qatar Equestrian Federation’s indoor arena. Saad Ahmed al-Saad (Fito R) came second, while Harir Alhaies (Arselina) took third spot.

FOOTBALL/ QNB STARS LEAGUE 3X3 BASKETBALL Team Lusail enter quarters keen to of Doha Masters

By Sports Reporter 2014 in Moscow. Doha In Pool ‘B’, the defending champions Riga, who defeated Liman in the last year’s fi nal, eam Lusail marched into beat Jeddah 22-15 and Yoyogi improve position the quarter-fi nals of the 21-15. TFIBA 3x3 Doha Masters Last year’s World Tour Fi- Al Sadd are top of the table with 13 points, with Al Ahli are second on 12 yesterday at the Gharafa Beach nals runners-up Princeton Games Area. from USA defeated Germany’s By Sports Reporter The hosts lost their fi rst Bielefeld 21-16 and Ubi 21-20 Doha Pool ‘A’ match to No 1 seed in their Pool ‘D’ matches. Liman 8-21, but came back strongly in the second to beat RESULTS he 2020-21 QNB Stars Team Manila 19-14 and secure POOL A: Liman (SER) bt League is back after a break a last-8 spot in the two-day Lusail (QAT) 21-8; Liman bt Twith the Al Arabi vs Al Sadd event. Manila Chooks (PHI) 22-15; match, dubbed the Qatar Derby, The Qatar team will meet Lusail bt Manila Chooks 19-14 and the Al Duhail vs Al Gharafa Utena Uniclub today at POOL B: Riga (LAT) bt clash the highlights tomorrow. 5.45pm. Serbia’s Liman, who Voyogi Crayon EXE (JPN) 21- Al Sadd are top of the table with won their fi rst match against 15; Riga bt Jeddah (KSA) 22-15; 13 points, with Al Ahli are second Manila 25-15, will meet Jeddah bt Voyogi Crayon EXE on 12 and Al Duhail third on nine Lausanne in another quarter- 18-16 after fi ve matches. fi nal match. Team Lusail coach POOL C: Utena Uniclub Today Umm Salal, who are 10th Mohamed Salim Abdulla was (LTU) bt New York Harlems on the table with just four points, all praise for his players. (USA) 21-8; Lausanne Kata- face Al Ahli at the Qatar SC Sta- “They played like a team af- pult (SUI) bt New York Har- dium. ter losing fi rst game. I am sat- lems 22-7; Utena Uniclub bt Umm Salal, under the tutelage isfi ed with their performance Lausanne Katapult 21-18 of their former player Aziz Ben today,” said Abdulla, who was POOL D: Princeton (USA) Askar from Morocco, will be keen a part of the Qatar national bt Bielefeld LFDY (GER) 21-16; improve their position. team that lifted the FIBA 3×3 Princeton bt UB (SER) 21-20; “Al Ahli are a good team and World Championships title in Bielefeld LFDY bt UB 22-10 they began the season in a good way through the work done by Al Ahli coach Nebosha Jovovic (L) and his Umm Salal counterpart Aziz Ben Askar. their coach and players, so we expect a strong match. We are Al Ahli coach Nebosha Jovovic to strengthen the squad with for individual brilliance. There- “Our team benefi ted from the preparing ourselves and we have predicted a tough match. some new players. We will play fore, we try to impose our style stoppage in the league as some of a good way of playing,” said Ben “The match will not be easy, for the fi rst time this season with and provide a level befi tting the our players recovered from their Askar. but we have prepared the team fi ve professionals. In general, name and position of Qatar SC. injuries and played in the Ooredoo “We work seriously every day, well to meet Umm Salal, who have the team is taking positive steps Al Wakrah coach Marquez Cup. We were given the opportu- not for this match only, but for all improved a lot. We respect Umm towards harmony and stability, Lopez said his team needed to re- nity to prepare most of the players upcoming games this season that Salal, they are one of the good and all these factors will help de- gain their winning touch. during the break period,” said Al I previously described as diffi cult teams noted for high quality in liver a level and performance that “The game against Qatar SC is Sailiya coach Sami al-Trablesi. because it started 10 days after the performance,” he said. matches the eff orts exerted by very important for us, as we need “The team’s ranks are now end of last season. “They have strengthened their everyone,” said Qatar SC coach to regain our winning touch, es- complete with the return of Iraqi “We need to focus because we ranks with a number of outstand- Younis Ali pecially since we got only one striker Mohanad Ali ‘Mimi’ after will play against top teams in the ing players, but we have enough “I would like to commend the point from our last two games his international duty. He will lead coming weeks, a period that will players to face them and score eff orts of the club’s Board of Di- when we lost to Al Rayyan and our attack front the front against be diffi cult for us. Once we n- fi points.” Al Ahli were having a rectors to provide the necessary drew with Al Arabi. We are fully Al Khor. Another key player Nadir ish that, we will know what is our dream run, leading the table with support to achieve the desired prepared for this match. Belhadj has also recuperated from situation,” he added. an all-win record. That was bro- results in the next phase. And we “In the Ooredoo Cup during his injury. Umm Salal player Ayman Ab- ken in Week 5 when they lost big- are trying as much as possible to the break, I fi elded players who “We hope that the enthusiasm del Nour said: “We are ready for time (1-7) to Al Sadd before the make up for the lost time with the did not play mainly. In the last two and reaction we witnessed from the match against Al Ahli, which tournament took a break. arrival of six to seven new players,” matches, I played with the team’s the players in the Ooredoo Cup we expect to be strong, and our In another match today, Qatar he added. starting line-up in the league and matches will be present in the preparations for it went off well, SC will take on Al Wakrah, hoping “Al Wakrah are one of the teams now there is the problem of inju- league matches and we take ad- not only in defence, but in all de- the break would have done won- noted for collective performance ries.” vantage of the morale boost that partments. We hope to present a ders to their confi dence and they are also a well-organised In another match, Al Sailiya will the players got after our quarter- good match.” “We needed a break in order side. They also have players noted take on Al Khor. fi nal victory over Al Arabi.”

Action from Team Lusail’s matches yesterday at the Al Gharafa Beach Games Area. SHOOTING STARS

Rashed al-Athba (C) won the Double Trap gold medal at the Amir Cup Shooting and Archery Championships at the Losail Shooting Range yesterday. Masoud al-Atba came second and Rashid al-Athbi finished third. In the youth section of the event (R), Saif al-Muhannadi won the 50m Rifle gold medal, while Mohamed Tamimi and Abderrahmane al- Shardani clinched silver and bronze, respectively.