MONDAY 15 APRIL 2019 SPORT 07 We were lucky it wasn’t Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admits Manchester United Barcelona today. They played FOOTBALL FOOTBALL better than us but we have one will have to improve ahead English Premier League: Spanish La Liga: Leganes of the best goalkeepers in the of Barcelona game, after they rally to beat West Ham Watford vs Arsenal vs Real Madrid

world. ACTION

on Saturday. TODAY’S Qatari star tops entry list for Jordan Rally Al Attiyah targets another title in ME

THE PENINSULA (Škoda)(Škoda) and Nasser Khalifa Al AArabia’srabia’s Saeed Al-Mouri and ’s Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah is the defending Attiyah (Ford) and Jordan’s Lebanese rookie Alex Feghali. champion and a winner of the Jordan Rally on a dozen MaroufMarouf Abu Samra (Ford).(Ford). TheThe Jordanian quintet ooff occasions and he tops the entry list in a Volkswagen The resurgence of interestnterest in the TheThe MERC 2 (formerly Group Salameh Al Gammaz, Tareq Polo GTI R5. FIA Middle East Rallyally Champi-Champi- N)N) category has attracted a AlTaher,AlTaher, Ziad MiMiqdad,qdad, onship continues too gather pace furtherfurther 12 entries and defending Amjad Anasweh and Sami Kuwaiti driver Meshari Al Thefiri returns to defend the with the news thatat the Jordan championchampion HenryHenry KahyKahy of Fleifel will take part in a MERC 2 title he won so convincingly in 2018. He has Rally has attracted 1188 entries and LebanonLebanon and local driver Asem nationalnational rally category an additional fivee crew for a Aref will do battle in MERC 3 rrunningunning behind the already claimed maximum points for his win in Qatar national rally. for two-wheel drive vehicles. main FIA event. last month. Jordan Motorsportort yesterdayyesterday Kuwaiti driver Meshari Al TheThe 2019 Jordan officially announceded that cocom-m- ThefiriThefiri returns to defend the RRallyally will be based at the The 2019 Jordan Rally will be based at the Crowne petitors from 10 nationsions will take MERCMERC 2 title he won so concon-- Crowne Plaza Jordan Dead Plaza Jordan Dead Sea Resort and gets under way with part in the second round of the vincingly in 2018. Sea Resort and gets under way regional rally seriesies on April HeHe has alreadalreadyy claimed withwith a ceremonial start at a ceremonial start at Abdali Boulevard in Amman from 25-27. maximum points for his win in AbdAbdaliali BouBoulevardlevard in Amman 19.00hrs on April 25. Qatar’s Nasserer SalehSaleh AlAl QatarQatar lastlast month.month. fromfrom 19.00hrs19.00hrs on ApriAprill 25. Attiyah (pictured)ed) is thethe CompetitionCompetition is likelylikely to come RallyRally officials have made Rally officials have made changes to the route and defending championpion and a fromfrom Jordanian drivers Khaled changes to the route and special special stages that teams will tackle on the second winner of the Jordanan RallyRally on a JumaJuma and Ihab Al Shorafi, four stagesstages that teams will tackle on round of the regional series. dozen occasions andnd he ttopsops the OmaniOmani entrants headedheaded by the second round of the regionalregional entry list in a Volkswagenswagen Polo Abdullah Al Ruwahi, series.series. GTI R5. fellowfellow Kuwaiti Saleh TheThe rallrallyy will now be competitive kilometreskilo in a route off the competitive action on Al Attiyah and hhisis FrencFrenchh co- binbin Eidan,Eidan, ffoughtought out over 22 of 563.38km.563.38km. TeamsT will face 11 both days after two loops of five driver Matthieu BaumelBaumel ffaceace SaudiS audi sspecialpecial stastagesges specialspecial stages ono April 26 and a gravel specials each day. competition from a further three and 247.20 further 11 on theth following day. Support for the event comes R5 cars in the handsnds ofof ffellowellow The Dead SeaS super special from Abdali Boulevard, Mountain Qataris Abdulazizz AlAl KuwariKuwari stage ooff 22.59km.59km will now round Dew, Hala and Bliss FM.

Warriors open title Caps beat defence with victory Hurricanes to secure over LA Clippers 2-0 lead REUTERS OAKLAND NBA: PLAY-OFF RESULTS REUTERS Eastern Conference WASHINGTON Stephen Curry complemented a Brooklyn 111 Philadelphia 102 game-high 38 points with a (Brooklyn lead series 1-0) Defenceman Brooks Orpik career-play-off-high 15 Orlando 104 Toronto 101 scored 1:48 into overtime rebounds in a historic (Orlando lead series 1-0) to give the Washington performance on Saturday night Western Conference Capitals a 4-3 victory over as the Golden State Warriors Golden State 121 Los Angeles 104 the visiting Carolina Hurri- opened defense of their NBA title (Golden State lead series 1-0) canes in Game 2 of an with a 121-104 win over the Los San Antonio 111 Denver 102 Eastern Conference first-

Angeles Clippers in a volatile round series on Saturday (San Antonio lead series 1-0) Game 1 of their Western afternoon. Conference first-round series in The Capitals have a Oakland, California. Clippers, who are the last 2-0 lead in this series, The matchup of familiar Western Conference team to which shifts to Carolina for Pacific Division rivals featured beat the Warriors in a play-off the next two games, the ejections of the Warriors’ series. starting Monday. Orpik’s Kevin Durant and Clippers’ That was in 2014, when they game-winner was just his South African players celebrate after winning the Singapore Rugby Sevens Cup final match against Patrick Beverley, each of whom also lost Game 1 before winning fourth goal in 151 NHL Fiji in Singapore, yesterday. was nailed with a second tech- four of the last six. play-off games. nical foul for a verbal altercation The Warriors led nearly Predators 2, Stars 1 near midcourt midway through wire-to-wire, but the Clippers Craig Smith scored at the fourth quarter. remained competitive most of 5:00 of overtime in Game SA produce big comeback Curry’s 38 points included the way by taking advantage of 2 as Nashville defeated vis- 8-for-12 shooting on 3-pointers 21 Golden State turnovers and iting Dallas. on a night when he passed Ray enjoying a 65-22 advantage in Rocco Grimaldi also Allen (385) for the NBA all-time points off the bench. scored for the Predators, to win Singapore Sevens career play-off record. Curry Curry’s 38-point game was who evened the first- finished the game with 386 his 31st in postseason play with round Western Conference career threes. 30 or more. The Warriors have play-off series at a game AFP The Springbok Sevens Davids and Ryan Oosthuizen. Draymond Green provided gone 28-3 in those games. apiece. Game 3 is SINGAPORE staged a big comeback The comeback was com- a surprising offensive spark with His previous high for scheduled in Dallas. Goal- after the interval with pleted when Fiji conceded a 17 points on 7-for-12 shooting rebounds in a play-off game was tender Pekka Rinne made recovered from a Selvyn Davids kicking a penalty right in front of the posts to go with seven rebounds and 10, done four times. 22 saves. 19-point deficit to stun defending last-minute penalty to in the final minute and Davids a team-high-tying seven Durant contributed 23 points Jamie Benn scored the champions Fiji and win the seal a 20-19 victory. drop-kicked the winning points assists, helping Golden State and three blocked shots in 32 lone goal for the Stars, who World Rugby Sevens Series tour- to secure his side’s second win the opener of its first-round minutes while Klay Thompson won 3-2 in Game 1 and nament in Singapore. victory in this year’s series fol- series for the sixth consecutive added 12 points. were looking to return Winners of the Hong Kong England beat series lowing their triumph in Van- season. DeMarcus Cousins, playing home with a two-game Sevens last week, the Fijians leaders the couver last month. Montrezl Harrell had 26 in his first NBA play-off game, edge. Goalie Ben Bishop appeared to be on course for a 28-7 to finish third in South Africa’s victory means points, and Lou Williams 25 with collected nine points and nine stopped 40 of 42 shots but second consecutive title in Sin- Singapore. that the US remain at the top of a game-high nine assists for the rebounds before fouling out. suffered the first overtime gapore when they raced to a 19-0 the series table with 145 points, play-off defeat of his lead at half-time in the final. three ahead of Fiji on 142 with career after five straight However, the Springbok South Africa won all third on 130. wins. Sevens staged a big comeback five of their matches on South Africa complete the Bruins 4, M’ Leafs 1 after the interval with Selvyn their run to the final in top four with 121 points, 14 ahead Brad Marchand had a Davids kicking a last-minute Singapore. of fifth-placed England. goal and an assist, and penalty to seal a 20-19 victory. With the top four teams in Boston defeated visiting England beat series leaders this year’s series earning berths Toronto to even the best- the United States 28-7 to finish before wins against Samoa at the 2020 Olympics, the US of-seven, first-round play- third in Singapore. (21-12) in the quarter-finals and only need six more points from off series at 1-1. New Zealand’s hopes of USA (24-12) in the semi-finals. the final two tournaments in Charlie Coyle, Danton winning the overall series title But they were blitzed by the and to book their Heinen and Patrice for the first time since 2014 suf- Fijians in the opening half of the spot in Tokyo. Bergeron also scored for fered a massive blow after they final as tries by Aminiasi At the bottom end of the the Bruins. were beaten 19-17 by Samoa in Tuimaba, Napolioni Bolaca and table, Wales secured five val- Nazem Kadri scored the fifth-place play-off to drop Vilimoni Botitu put the Pacific uable points after reaching the for the Maple Leafs in the 15 points behind the USA in the island side 19 points up at the challenge trophy semi-finals. third period but slightly race for top spot. interval. They moved three points more than three minutes South Africa won all five of However, the South Africans ahead of in the battle to later was given a game their matches on their run to the came back strongly in the second avoid relegation from the series Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry shoots the basketball misconduct and a cross- final in Singapore which half and drew within two points with the last-placed of the 15 during game one of the first round of the 2019 NBA play-offs checking penalty. included a 17-7 victory over Fiji of the Fijians at 19-17 after tries core teams set to be replaced by against LA Clippers on Saturday. during pool play on Saturday by Kurt-Lee Arendse, Angelo Ireland next season. 08 SPORT MONDAY 15 APRIL 2019 Molinari and Woods renew battle for Green Jacket

REUTERS was unable to get over the line. AUGUSTA He led on the back nine of the British Open before being overtaken Francesco Molinari surged two shots by Molinari and finished runner-up at clear at the top of the Masters lead- last year’s PGA Championship. erboard on Saturday to set up another “It’s been a while since I’ve been final round showdown with Tiger in contention here,” said Woods. “But Woods for a major title. then again the last two majors counts It has been an almost flawless for something. Masters for Molinari, who has “I’ve been in the mix with a chance carded just a single bogey to win major championships in the last through three rounds. two years and so that helps.” The Italian turned in While Finau is playing in just his another error-free effort in Francesco Molinari of second Masters the 29-year-old has Saturday’s third round, plays a shot on displayed plenty of guts to go along signing for a six-under 66 to the fifth hole during with some superb form at Augusta top the leaderboard at the third round of the National. 13-under. Masters at Augusta Famed for dislocating his ankle Molinari, the first Italian National Golf Club on celebrating a hole-in-one at last year’s to win a major with his Saturday. par-3 contest, Finau will now be victory at last year’s British remembered for matching the Masters Open, will start in pole record for the lowest front nine. position to claim a Green He joins five others -- Johnny Jacket to go along with his Miller, Greg Norman, K.J. Choi, Gary Claret Jug. Woodland and Phil Mickelson -- who Joining him in the last group will have all carded 30 over the first nine be Woods, who also paired with the holes. Italian in the final round at Carnoustie, “As a kid, I always wanted to after the American electrified the compete against him (Woods)”, said massive galleries with a five-under 67, Finau, who popped his ankle back in his best score at Augusta National and bravely came back to finish 10th since 2011 when he shot rounds of 66 at last year’s Masters. and 67. “I’ve dreamed of playing in the “He (Woods) obviously loves this final group with him in a major place and he’s playing great golf,” said championship.” Molinari. With no wind and a layout sof- “So I’m aware that it’s not going tened by days of rain, the early to be easy tomorrow, I can just do my three-under 69 to trail Molinari by reaching fever pitch. Even United starters attacked the pins and the best. three. States President Donald Trump, who Augusta record books with gusto, “But it’s not like I can only worry With the forecast calling for heavy has golfed with Woods at his Mar-a- taking full advantage of the ideal about him. There’s a lot of guys I think rain and thunderstorms late on Sunday Lago resort, said on Twitter he was scoring conditions on what is known in with a chance.” officials have decided to send golfers looking forward to Sunday’s final as Moving Day. Woods and Molinari will be accom- off in threesomes from both the first round. The Masters course record seemed panied in the final round by Tony and 10th tees rather than traditional “Great playing by @TigerWoods under constant threat with Finau, Finau, who matched Woods’s 11-under pairs in an attempt to get the final (at the) @TheMasters. Tomorrow will Webb Simpson and Patrick Cantlay all total with a dazzling eight-under 64 round completed and avoid a Monday be a big and exciting day for golf and carding 64s, one shy of the mark Tiger Woods of the United States that featured a Masters record- finish to the year’s first major. for sports. Many fantastic players in owned by Greg Norman and Nick walks on the 18th hole during equalling front nine of six-under 30. With Woods chasing his first major the hunt. Ratings Gold - Good luck to Price. the third round of the Masters Lurking one shot further back is title since the 2008 US Open, and first all!,” tweeted Trump. The three 64s were nonetheless at Augusta National Golf Club twice US Open champion Brooks Green Jacket since claiming his fourth Woods was in contention on the the most in the same round at any on Saturday. Koepka, who scrapped his way to a in 2005, ‘Tiger-mania’ is again final day at the last two majors but Masters.

MASTERS SCORES 203 - Francesco Molinari (ITA) 70-67-66 Koepka comfortable to be in chasing pack 205 - Tony Finau (USA) 71-70-64, Tiger Woods (USA) 70-68-67 REUTERS roller-coaster round included from the cup. That hole not only 206 - Brooks Koepka (USA) 66-71-69 AUGUSTA an eagle, five birdies and four salvaged his round but could 207 - Webb Simpson (USA) 72-71-64, Ian Poulter bogeys. go a long way to determining (ENG) 68-71-68 Brooks Koepka relinquished his “So I enjoy it, it’s fun, if he is to slip into a Green 208 - Matt Kuchar (USA) 71-69-68, Justin Harding share of the Masters lead on getting definitely more com- Jacket after final round. Saturday but the American is fortable with it as every major Due to an ominous weather (RSA) 69-69-70, Xander Schauffele (USA) 73-65-70, not about to panic given the goes by. forecast, golfers will go off Louis Oosthuizen (RSA) 71-66-71, Dustin Johnson increased self-belief that “I feel good and I like my from the first and 10th tees in (USA) 68-70-70 helped him bag two of the last chances tomorrow.” threesomes and Koepka will 209 - Rickie Fowler (USA) 70-71-68, Adam Scott three majors. Koepka, who does not have be followed around the course (AUS) 69-68-72 On a day when Augusta a top-10 finish in three previous by the final grouping of 210 - Patrick Cantlay (USA) 73-73-64, Thorbjorn National, which had been sof- starts at the Masters and missed Molinari, Tiger Woods and Brooks Koepka of Olesen (DEN) 71-71-68, Justin Thomas (USA) 73-68- tened by rain earlier in the the event in 2018 due to a wrist Tony Finau. the United States 69, Phil Mickelson (USA) 67-73-70, Jon Rahm (ESP) week, was yielding low scores injury, was chugging along at Koepka has said all week acknowledges patrons 69-70-71, Jason Day (AUS) 70-67-73 Koepka could only muster a one-under on the day when he he was focused on his own after putting on the 211 - Bubba Watson (USA) 72-72-67, Lucas Bjerre- three-under-par 69 that left stepped up to the par-five 15th game and not worrying about eighth green during gaard (DEN) 70-72-69 him alone in fourth place and and gave his Green Jacket what anyone else is doing, but the third round of the 212 - Jordan Spieth (USA) 75-68-69, Tommy Fleet- three shots back of leader hopes a boost. that could prove tough come Masters on Saturday. wood (ENG) 71-71-70, Corey Conners (CAN) 70-71-71 Francesco Molinari. The three-times major Sunday with the leaders playing “I’m pretty comfortable champion launched his drive right behind him. 213 - Henrik Stenson (SWE) 74-72-67, Hideki Mat- being in, being up there on the 332 yards up the fairway and “I can’t control anything they’re going to do,” said and hopefully they can see suyama (JPN) 75-70-68, Cameron Smith (AUS) 70-74- leaderboard in a major come then made an eagle after his that they’re doing with -- Koepka. something on the board where 69, Matthew Fitzpatrick (ENG) 78-67-68, Kevin Tway Sunday,” said Koepka, whose approach shot settled 10 feet whatever they’re going to do, “So just need to go out there it’ll make them a little nervous.” (USA) 72-71-70, Patton Kizzire (USA) 70-70-73 214 - Aaron Wise (USA) 75-71-68, Marc Leishman (AUS) 72-72-70, Kim Si-woo (KOR) 72-72-70, Kyle Stanley (USA) 72-72-70, a-Viktor Hovland (NOR) 72- Inaugural Women’s Amateur sends 71-71, Charley Hoffman (USA) 71-71-72, Kevin Kisner (USA) 69-73-72, Bryson DeChambeau (USA) 66-75-73 215 - a-Takumi Kanaya (JPN) 73-74-68, Rory McIlroy welcome ripples through Masters (NIR) 73-71-71, Keegan Bradley (USA) 76-68-71, Gary REUTERS Woodland (USA) 70-71-74 watching that, from addition to Masters week. Carolina, who have attended AUGUSTA wherever they are.” “I think that what’s so roughly a dozen Masters, 216 - Jimmy Walker (USA) 72-72-72, J.B. Holmes For years, controversy important is it’s just moving joked that Augusta National (USA) 70-72-74, Charles Howell (USA) 73-67-76, More than a week since swirled around the club over the needle,” said Women’s was the only place where Kiradech Aphibarnrat (THA) 69-72-75 Jennifer Kupcho hoisted the its long-standing tradition Sports Foundation CEO the line for the men’s 217 - Kevin Na (USA) 71-73-73, a-Alvaro Ortiz (MEX) trophy as the inaugural of not admitting women as Deborah Antoine. restroom was longer than 73-71-73, Patrick Reed (USA) 73-70-74 Augusta National Women’s members, drawing outrage “The pride of going that of the women’s. 218 - a-Devon Bling (USA) 74-73-71, Keith Mitchell Amateur winner, the impact from women’s groups as its down Magnolia Lane and “I think that [the (USA) 72-74-72, Tyrrell Hatton (ENG) 73-73-72, of that moment, once leadership remained ada- standing where legends women’s tournament] will Satoshi Kodaira (JPN) 75-70-73, Andrew Landry unthinkable to the club’s old mantly opposed to per- have stood and for the first make a difference,” said (USA) 72-73-73, Bernhard Langer (GER) 71-72-75, male guard, still rever- mitting a female presence time making this about Bryant, who believes it will Rafael Cabrera Bello (ESP) 73-70-75 berated through the until 2012. women.” On the third day have an impact on the sport 219 - Eddie Pepperell (ENG) 74-73-72, Branden Grace hallowed home of the The inaugural Women’s of the men’s competition on beyond Augusta. (RSA) 72-75-72, Martin Kaymer (GER) 73-74-72, Li Masters. Amateur championship Saturday, Masters patrons “Who knows? Maybe Haotong (CHN) 72-74-73 “A few guys would turn marked another major said they welcomed the even being in the Masters is in their grave because a lot breakthrough at Augusta change and noticed a shift next,” Bryant said. 220 - Emiliano Grillo (ARG) 72-75-73, Zach Johnson of them stood up in front of National, with its long- in gender balance among “Obviously the women (USA) 74-73-73 these guys and said, ‘I will standing reputation as a the crowd at Augusta need the same opportunities 221 - Billy Horschel (USA) 72-75-74, Trevor Immel- never allow a woman to be haven for rich, white, well- National, even days after the as the men,” said Charles man (RSA) 74-72-75 a member’,” recalled the connected men. women’s competition had Breithaupt, who, like other Jennifer Kupcho celebrates with the Augusta

222 - Alex Noren (SWE) 75-72-75 three-times Masters For advocates of ended. golf patrons at Augusta, felt

National Women’s Amateur trophy, in this champion Gary Player. women’s sports, it was more Vickie Newell and Pam a women’s Masters was in April 06, 2019 file photo. “So they will be than just a welcome Bryant, of Clemens, South reach. MONDAY 15 APRIL 2019 SPORT 09 Boxing’s new leader steps into fight to keep Olympic status

AP assess the inquiry panel’s report could see then-AIBA executive director Karim Bouzidi boxing removed from the Tokyo program, was publicly demoted during those Olympics or choose to go ahead outside the AIBA’s and took the blame. With as few as six weeks left to save boxing’s control. “We turned the page and saw that there place at the 2020 Olympics, the governing Bach’s board already decided in was something to do improve our sport,” body’s new interim president is now in the November to freeze planning for men’s and Moustahsane said, insisting he saw no IOC’s home city for the final rounds of women’s boxing tournament in Tokyo and wrongdoing in Rio and preferred to look lobbying. block AIBA officials contacting organizers forward rather than “stay on the past.” A long-time ringside doctor, Mohamed in Japan. An offer to clear the AIBA’s reported Moustahsane stepped into the arena last The AIAB could also be formally derec- $16m debt by its executive committee month as the International Boxing Associ- ognized by the full IOC membership at their member Umar Kremlev of Russia was ation’s (AIBA) temporary leader after elected June 24-26 annual meeting in Lausanne. announced last month. Winner ’s Philippe Gilbert (centre) celebrates raises his president Gafur Rakhimov stepped aside. Rakhimov helped negotiate a settlement “We asked Mr. Kremlev to put this pro- trophy next to second-placed ’s Nils Politt (right) and Rakhimov’s status on a US Treasury with the AIBA’s main creditor, in , posal to the (executive committee),” Mous- Department sanctions list - with alleged links before he was formally elected president in tahsane said, adding the AIBA had not asked third-placed Belgium’s Yves Lampaert on the podium of the 117th to international heroin trafficking which he November by member federations. That vote about the source of the money. edition of the Paris-Roubaix one-day classic cycling race, between denies - is part of an International Olympic triggered an inquiry panel being created by The American federal sanctions on Compiegne and Roubaix, in Roubaix, northern , yesterday. Committee inquiry examining boxing’s place the IOC, which privately warned the AIBA Rakhimov have left banks in on the Tokyo Games program, and the AIBA’s against electing him. reluctant to do business with the Lausanne- right to run the sport. Moustahsane stepping into the presi- based boxing body. Gilbert clinches “Mr. Rakhimov did a great job since he dential seat for up to nine months is seen by “We are working according to Swiss law was interim president (in January 2018) and some skeptics as a tactic to placate the IOC and nothing is out of order,” said Mous- we thank him for that,” Moustahsane said. before a Rakhimov return. tahsane, who described an AIBA account “But AIBA is now going forward.” Asked if Rakhimov staying out of office held in as “not something important.” Paris-Roubaix The Morocccan doctor said he had not could be a condition of keeping boxing in Despite the IOC inquiry, the AIBA is still yet met Nenad Lalovic, the IOC executive the Olympics, Moustahsane said: “The IOC working with around 200 member nations board member chairing a three-member have never said that there’s a red line. Mr. and planning for world championships in after tense battle inquiry, nor the Olympic body’s president Rakhimov stepped aside so we don’t have Russia. The men’s tournament in September Thomas Bach. to discuss this issue now.” and women’s in October are meant to decide AFP “We are confident they are working for The IOC is also concerned about the the first Olympic qualifying places. ROUBAIX the best interests of the sport,” Moustahsane integrity of some bout results at the 2016 A legal fight would be possible if the IOC said in an interview. Rio de Janeiro Olympics and the AIBA’s decisions go against the AIBA. Belgian veteran Philippe Gilbert won the cobbled classic Paris Two deadlines weigh heavily in the finances. Asked if his organization could appeal Roubaix cycling race yesterday after a cat-and-mouse final struggle AIBA’s near future. Moustahsane chaired a panel allocating at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, Mous- with Germany’s Nils Politt while another Belgian Yves Lampaert A May 22 meeting of the IOC board to referees and judges to bouts in Rio, though tahsane said: “This is not one of our values.” was third. Six riders, including defending champion Peter Sagan, broke away with around 55km remaining but the Deceuninck-Quick-Step pair Gilbert and Lampaert worked together to drop the Slovak on the final cobbled section. Iranian boxer Sadaf Khadem The victory gives former world champion Gilbert his fourth of celebrates winning her fight five of the so called ‘Monuments’, long one-day races. He has won against French boxer Anne the Tour of Flanders, the Tour of Lombardy and Liege-Bastogne- Chauvin at the end of the bout Liege, just the Milan-San Remo is missing from his prize list. in Royan, France. Gilbert called his bid for all five Monuments ‘Strive for Five’, Mr. Rakhimov did a great job since he after winning Flanders solo in front of adoring home crowds in 2017. was interim president (in January Politt and Gilbert came into the iconic Roubaix velodrome 30 seconds clear of Belgian champion Lampaert. The crowd cheered 2018) and we thank him for that. But wildly as they eyed each other on the final lap. AIBA is now going forward. We are Gilbert pulled ahead with 50 metres to go before crossing the line in emotional scenes of joy. confident they are working for the “Its really special. It was a really daring attack and it came off,” best interests of the sport” said the 36-year-old who also led an earlier breakaway and was the architect of Sagan’s downfall. Gilbert said he was proud of rein- venting his style to carve out a successful late career. “When I decided to go for the classics they said the cobbles Mohamed Moustahsane, weren’t for me. I was just a puncher, but now I’m more complete. AIBA President The race was marked by relatively few crashes, although Tiesj Benoot went to hospital after crashing through the back windscreen of the Jumbo-Visma team car that had braked suddenly to miss a faller. ’s Rahul and Tennis: Nishikori tips Federer Pant await WC fate for clay comeback success REUTERS NEW DELHI AFP MONTE CARLO Djokovic keen to start Opener Lokesh Rahul and stumper-batsman Rishabh Pant are unlikely to sleep much as India selectors prepare to reveal their Roger Federer may not be playing at the Monte Carlo Masters but 15-man squad for the Cricket World Cup. the Swiss legend was still at the forefront of 2018 finalist Kei winning big matches Chief selector M.S.K. Prasad has told reporters that most of the Nishikori’s thoughts yesterday. current side picks itself and there were only a couple of spots left “Everything is possible (for Federer),” Nishikori - Asia’s top player AFP up for grabs for the May 30 to July 14 showpiece in England and - told reporters. MONTE CARLO Wales. Federer is due for a return to the dirt after two seasons com- So while there is not a great deal of suspense hanging over today’s pletely off the surface in three weeks at Madrid, his lone scheduled Novak Djokovic said yesterday he is working to ensure that last scheduled news conference in Mumbai, speculation remains over tune-up prior to the French Open, which he last played in 2015. month’s sub-par hardcourt performances do not affect his seasonal who will fill at least two positions in the squad. “It (winning Roland Garros) might be tougher for him than bow on clay in Monte Carlo. The world number one kicks off at While India boast a formidable top order that includes captain winning the Australian Open or Wimbledon, but I’m sure he can do his home event starting in the second round against either Philipp Virat Kohli, the search continues for a reliable number four batsman. anything if he tries 100 per cent,” said Nishikori. Kohlschreiber or a qualifier. Pant, Ambati Rayudu, Vijay Shankar, Ajinkya Rahane, Manish “He’s a lot different than anyone else on the Tour,” added the Djokovic, winner of the last three Grand Slam titles and Pandey and Dinesh Karthik have all been auditioned in the slot and world number three who lost the final here a year ago as Rafael dreaming of completing his personal sweep with another trophy all have been found wanting. Nadal won his 11th title in at Roland Garros, was stopped in the third round at Indian Wells Rahul will fancy his chances as a back-up opener who can also the principality. last month. He was then unable to hold onto a 6-1 lead in the bat at number four and his four 50-plus scores in the ongoing Indian “I’m sure Roger can do opening set of his fourth-rounder in Miami, going out in three to Premier League could not have come at a better time. very well on clay. He’s still Robert Bautista Agut. Pant is also angling for a back-up role, behind the stumps, with my idol, he’s the best player “I can’t wait to step on court, I’ve been training hard,” he said Mahendra Singh Dhoni installed as India’s first choice in history. on a rainy opening day of the Masters 1000. “Some top players wicketkeeper. “I’m happy to see him have been here for a week practising. I had a great last six months A hard-hitter who can also be played as a specialist batsman, playing more tournaments, of the season, the 31-year-old Serb said. “And I had an amazing the 21-year-old faces competition from Karthik, whose ability to I hope I can play him start this year. Indian Wells and Miami were so-so - I’ll try to pick bat anywhere in the batting order makes him a limited-overs asset. again,” said the player who that up and see how it goes on clay.” However, Karthik, 33, was left out of the home series against has beaten the 37-year-old Djokovic and 11-time winner Rafael Nadal, along with Roland , India’s final dress rehearsal for the World Cup, which Swiss three times and most Garros runner-up Dominic Thiem, stand as favourites on paper could signal a slide down the pecking order. recently last November at for the first major title of the French Open preliminary events. Former Test stumper Kiran More says Pant should be on the the year-end ATP Finals. Roger Federer, who has skipped the clay season completely plane to England “He came from injury for the last two years and will return to Roland Garros for the first “If I am the selector, I will take Pant to the World Cup,” More and won the Australian time since a 2015 quarter-final loss to fellow Swiss Stan Wawrinka, told ESPNcricinfo. “I will punt on him, definitely, only because he is Open (2017). I’m sure he is not playing. a match-winner. That is what he has done in Test matches, he can works harder than anyone The 20-time Grand Slam champion will appear in his only win you games single-handedly. He is a big-occasion player. He A photo of Kei NIshikori posted for this else off court. I hope he scheduled pre-Paris clay event in Madrid starting May 5. has got the guts to go for his shots, he is ruthless. week’s Monte Carlo Masters event. does well,” NIshikori said. “All of our games will be tested big-time - but that’s why we’re “If it clicks, it will benefit India immensely,” said More, a former Pic@rolexmcmasters As for his own per- here,” Djokovic said of the slow Monte Carlo clay, which might be chief selector. formance, the Japanese ace made even heavier by wet weather predicted for later in the week. Prasad and his selection committee colleagues will also weigh is optimistic after his 2018 The top seed said that while he would prefer to head to Paris the relative merit of Shankar’s medium pace and Jadeja’s left-arm showing in the Principality. “I’m very happy to be back, I have good with a title in his pocket, it’s not a desperate situation. spin before naming the second all-rounder. memories. Last year I gained confidence after coming back at this “But I’ve had some (successful) Roland Garros tournaments in Hardik Pandya remains India’s first choice all-rounder while tournament from injury. the past where I didn’t win any of the big (clay) ones (Monte Carlo, wrist-spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal are expected “I’m looking forward to playing this year. There are a lot of guys Madrid, ) before. It (lacking a major clay title) would not to share the slow bowling duties. who are tough on clay, especially Rafa and Novak (Dkjokovic). affect my state of mind but it would serve my confidence better if India begin their bid for a third World Cup against South Africa “I’ve loved playing on clay the last couple of years, I hope I can I’d won one of them coming into Paris.” in Southampton on June 5. win the title. Winning a clay tournament is a big goal for me.” 10 SPORT MONDAY 15 APRIL 2019 ‘It’s a pain’: Vettel hits out with Ferrari orders

AFP Ferrari’s Sebastian Ferrari boss Binotto defends Vettel reacts after the Sebastian Vettel earned his first race at the Shanghai podium place of 2019 yesterday International Circuit but was hardly jubilant, saying use of orders to help GP star yesterday. he was not “entirely happy” in his Ferrari and annoyed by ques- REUTERS on the Mercedes ahead and that was among the tions about team orders. SHANGHAI only chance we got at the time,” added the Swiss- The four-time world born boss. “So, we tried. It didn’t work, let’s say. champion took third behind the Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto defended a decision to But I think it was right anyway to give that chance Mercedes pair of Valtteri Bottas use team orders in favour of four times Formula to Seb and I think as a team we did whatever we and winner Lewis Hamilton at One world champion Sebastian Vettel in yester- could.” the Chinese Grand Prix, the day’s Chinese Grand Prix. The move compromised Leclerc’s race, another 1,000th race in Formula One. The German’s team mate Charles Leclerc had blow for a youngster who was cruelly denied his The German was overtaken made a better start and was in third place, with maiden win by an engine problem two weeks ago by his decade-younger team- Vettel close behind, when the team gave instruc- in after taking pole position and leading mate Charles Leclerc at the start, tions for the Monegasque to let his team mate with the fastest lap. but Ferrari soon told the Mon- through early on. It meant also that the 21-year-old, who was egasque to let Vettel pass. The attempt to close the gap on Mercedes clearly faster than Vettel in Bahrain where he In the lead-up to the race, rivals Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas, who passed the German despite being told to stay behind, Ferrari team principal Mattia were pulling away at the front and won one-two, pitted later than his team mate for both his stops Binotto said that Vettel remained failed and Vettel finished third with Leclerc and was caught by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. the priority, but suggested that dropping to fifth. “It was a bit frustrating,” said the Monegasque, could change. “Certainly it’s difficult as a team to give the order who protested at the time that he was pulling away. The 21-year-old Leclerc sub- because we understand the drivers, they need to “But on the other hand I am well aware that sequently came fifth in Shanghai battle, to stay ahead as much as they can,” Binotto, in the car you don’t see much of the full picture and said that the order was “a bit who took over in January, told reporters. of the race. So I just accepted it, did it and focused frustrating”. “But I just accepted “We tried everything we could not to lose time on my race.” it, did it and focused on my race,” said Leclerc, whose truncated responses suggested the frus- “It’s always a bit difficult, one at Ferrari. “It’s a pain to “It’s not easy for anyone Italian team were supposed to weeks and these next couple will tration lingered. The 31-year-old especially with what you make answer the same questions over involved,” he said. have the edge this season over be very important for us to Vettel, who has faced criticism of the answer afterwards,” he and over,” he said, adding that it Vettel admitted that he was perennial constructors’ cham- understand where we need to go after a number of unforced told reporters, hitting out at was “never pleasant” when one still trying to “unlock” his Ferrari pions Mercedes, but Mercedes in the next months,” said Vettel. errors going back to last season, “poor journalism” over the driver is told to make way for a and conceded that he was not have been first and second in all “Clearly today we were not as was less diplomatic. prickly topic of who is number team-mate. “entirely happy yet” with it. The three races. “These couple of fast as Mercedes.”

Renault’s Australian driver Daniel Relieved Ricciardo scores Ricciardo (front) drives his car during the Formula One Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai yesterday. first points with Renault

REUTERS but we’re trying to find a bit had not told him of Hulkenberg’s Sky, said that left the jury out on SHANGHAI more every weekend.” retirement during the race. whether Ricciardo had made the Both the Red Bulls of Max “I normally never like to right move. Daniel Ricciardo struck third Verstappen and Pierre Gasly, the know if a team mate retires. “He’s had a better weekend, time lucky in yesterday, Frenchman who has replaced What can I do? I’ve just got to although Gasly in the car he scoring his first points for Ricciardo, finished ahead of the keep going. It’s best I don’t jumped out of had a pretty Renault to avoid a hat-trick of Australian in fourth and sixth know,” he said. ordinary race, did get fastest lap retirements since moving from respectively. “Otherwise it’s just some- and still finished, despite an extra Red Bull at the end of last season. Gasly also bagged an extra thing else to worry about.” late stop, 20 odd seconds ahead,” The 29-year-old winner of point for setting the fastest lap The Australian driver retired said the Briton. seven Grands Prix, including two right at the end, something Ric- three laps from the end with an “So at the moment you’d still last year, finished seventh in ciardo was never in a position to MGU-K problem in Bahrain two say he’d be better off in the Red Formula One’s 1,000th world do as he saved his tyres on a one- weeks ago and lasted just 28 laps Bull, but we’ll see how it goes in championship race. stop strategy while lapped by of his home Grand Prix in March the long haul.” “It’s good to get on the board, Mercedes’ race winner Lewis after smashing over a kerb at the Ricciardo said before the good to finish a race. We were Hamilton. start. start of the season that he looking for that for the last Ricciardo’s German team While the race lifted Ric- expected to be beaten by his couple. It was nice. We’ll take the mate Nico Hulkenberg, who fin- ciardo level with Hulkenberg, he former employers, who have positives and try and build on ished seventh in the Australian leaves China 33 points behind replaced their Renault power that,” he said. opener, retired after 16 laps with Verstappen in the standings and units for Honda, but he was in it “We’ve still got work to do to a suspected motor generator seven adrift of Gasly. for the long haul to help the get both cars home in the points. (MGU-K) problem. Former racer Martin French team return to the top of We’ll take positives from today, The Australian said the team Brundle, who commentates for the points table.

Championship MotoGP: Marquez again Standings Drivers: 1. Lewis Hamilton (GBR) 68 points wins pole in Austin 2. Valtteri Bottas (FIN) 62 3. Max Verstappen (NED) 39 AP “Today was a really Marquez had to fight his way 4. Sebastian Vettel (GER) 37 AUSTIN windy day, it was around the circuit Saturday. He had to steady his shaking 5. C Leclerc (MON) 36 A bump here, a wobble there, a shaking and there motorcycle when he hit the 6. Pierre Gasly (FRA) 13 gust of wind. Nothing was going was still some bumps and road into a headwind 7. Kimi Raikkonen (FIN) 12 to keep Marc Marquez from water there. Even on the track’s long straight while taking the pole position yet again powering through some of the 8. Lando Norris (GBR) 8 at a race he’s dominated the past on the fastest lap I highest speeds of his laps. 9. Kevin Magnussen (DEN) 8 six years. couldn’t be full “Today was a really windy 10. Daniel Ricciardo (AUS) 6 Repsol Honda’s Spanish day, it was shaking and there speed. I had to be 11. Nico Hülkenberg (GER) 6 rider will start from the front safe.” was still some water there,” once again as he chases a Marquez said. “Even on the 12. Sergio Perez (MEX) 5 seventh consecutive victory at fastest lap I couldn’t be full Marc Marquez 13. Alexander Albon (THA) 3 the MotoGP Grand Prix of the Marc Marquez speed. I had to be safe.” in action in this Americas. But no other rider is as com- 14. Lance Stroll (CAN) 2 Marquez, who other riders Rain wiped out the morning fortable on the track as Marquez photograph posted 15. Daniil Kvyat (RUS) have dubbed the “King of Texas,” practice session. By the is, and no one has ever been as on his official easily took the top spot ahead of afternoon, strong wind whipped fast here. Marquez’ maiden Twitter handle @ Italian rival Valentino Rossi of around the track as it was still victory here at 20 years old in marcmarquez93 Constructors: Yamaha. Marquez, 26, has won drying out. 2013 made him the youngest 1. Mercedes-AMG 130 pts five of the last six season cham- Riders have been com- winner in MotoGP 2. Ferrari 73 pionships. The 40-year-old Rossi plaining this week about the Marquez enjoys a four-point is a seven-time winner but hasn’t bumpy nature of the Circuit of lead in the championship over 3. Red Bull-Honda 52 Los Angeles: Leading qualifying times for won a title since 2009. the Americas, which was built Ducati’s Andrea Dovizioso, who 4. Renault 12 MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas at Circuit LCR Honda’s Cal Crutchlow for Formula One cars and won the season-opening race in 5. Alfa Romeo Racing-Ferrari 12 of Britain will be the third rider opened in 2012. Qatar and finished third in of the Americas in Austin, Texas: on the front row. The shifting of the clay soil . 6. Haas 8 Marquez has never failed to underneath and asphalt has Dovizioso held off Marquez 1. Marc Marquez (ESP/Honda) 2:03.787 7. McLaren-Renault 8 capture pole position in Austin. created bumps that have forced in a blistering finish in the desert 2. Valentino Rossi (ITA/Yamaha) 2:04.060 8. Racing Point-Mercedes 7 The only blip on his record many repairs over the years at but likely won’t get close to him GP of the 3. Cal Crutchlow (GBR/LCR Honda) 2:04.147 9. Toro Rosso-Honda 4 here was a penalty after the the circuit. Sunday as the Ducati rider will Americas 4. Jack Miller (AUS/Ducati) 2:04.416 qualifying session last year that All of which complicates a start 13th. 5. Pol Espargaro (ESP/KTM) 2:04.472 forced him start from fourth. He track already considered one of Rossi stands third in the qualifying 6. Maverick Vinales (ESP/Yamaha) 2:04.489 Retirements in Shanghai: bolted to the lead by the end of the most physically demanding championship standings with a times 7. Alex Rins (ESP/Suzuki) 2:04.534 Lap 17: Nico Hulkenberg (GER/Renault) the first lap and easily won the and technically challenging chance to make up some ground 8. Danilo Petrucci (ITA/Ducati) 2:04.696 race. courses of the season with its for a title fight. 9. Fabio Quartararo (FRA/Yamaha) 2:04.941 mechanical problem His only challenges Saturday s-curves, tight corners and long “I feel good with the bike,” 10. Franco Morbidelli (ITA/Yamaha) 2:05.278 Lap 41: Daniil Kvyat (RUS/Toro Rosso- were the weather and the track straight with abrupt braking Rossi said. “To be on the front itself. zones. row is good.” Honda) mechanical problem MONDAY 15 APRIL 2019 SPORT 11 Walsh and Crouser to resume rivalry in Doha

THE PENINSULA DOHA

The men’s was one of I expect a very tough the highest quality events across the athletics programme last competition at the season and six of the seven Khalifa International throwers who surpassed the Stadium on May 3 and 22-metre line will be competing in the Doha - I think I will have to the first stage of the IAAF throw over 22 metres Diamond League 2019 - on May to take the win: Tom 3. Walsh The event came to a climax in the Zurich Diamond League where reigning world indoor and The men’s discus also boasts outdoor champion Tom Walsh a star-studded line-up featuring from New Zealand reached out mark could be needed to secure “This will be my first time in headed by reigning European world and European champion to a second-round effort of victory and maximum points Doha and I am excited to throw indoor and outdoor champion Andrius Gudzius from , 22.60m to eclipse the Diamond next month. at the Khalifa International Michal Haratyk and world indoor world and European silver med- League record by four “I expect a very tough com- Stadium. My two indoor compe- bronze medallist Tomas Stanek allist Daniel Stahl from centimetres. petition at the Khalifa Interna- titions went very well and I am who both set national records and Olympic champion This will be my “Breaking the Diamond tional Stadium on May 3 and I ready to put out some big throws last season. Christoph Harting from first time in Doha League record in Zurich to win think I will have to throw over outdoors,” said Crouser, who Haratyk set an outright Germany. and I am excited the Diamond League title was 22 metres to take the win,” said threw 22.33m in his first compe- Polish record of 22.08m while “This will be my first interna- to throw at the one of the highlights of my Walsh. tition of the season at the Millrose Stanek improved the Czech tional competition of the season season. Of course, I have very “I feel ready and I’m sure we Games in New York. record to 22.17m during the and I know it will be another tough Khalifa International high expectations this year as will put on another great show The line-up also features indoor season. battle against a strong group of Stadium. My two well and I have been pleased for the crowd in Doha.” 2017 Diamond League champion And adding even more depth throwers including Daniel and indoor competitions with my performances so far in His principal rival will be the Darrell Hill from the United to an already illustrious line-up Christoph who I have competed 2019,” said Walsh. reigning Olympic champion States - who finished second to are the two throwers who pre- against many times in the past,” went very well and Walsh holds the world Ryan Crouser from the United Walsh in Zurich last year with ceded Walsh as world outdoor said Gudzius. I am ready to put outdoor lead with 21.91m from States who threw 22.53m last 22.40m - and champion: 2015 champion and “I am also looking forward out some big throws the Australian Championships year. They competed against from who improved his 2017 silver medallist to making my debut in the outdoors: Ryan where he participated as a guest each other nine times in 2018 South American record to from the United States and 2011 Khalifa International Stadium but the calibre of the field is such with Crouser leading their head- 22.00m in 2018. and 2013 champion where I will be defending my Crouser that a throw in excess of this to-head 5-4. The European challenge is from Germany. world title later this season.” IPL: Raina shines in Salah’s stunner helps Chennai win; Delhi Liverpool beat Chelsea down Hyderabad

AFP LIVERPOOL Liverpool IANS Lynn (82; 51 balls; 7x4 6x6) and defenders Virgil KOLKATA Andre Russell (10) to dent the Liverpool powered back to the van Dijk (left) KKR’s surge as they could only top of the Premier League after and Andrew Imran Tahir and Suresh Raina manage 161/8. Mohamed Salah’s stunning strike Robertson helped Chennai Super Kings Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals clinched a 2-0 win over Chelsea celebrate on the (CSK) put one foot in the playoffs now move into the second yesterday. pitch after the as they got past Kolkata Knight position in the points tally with Jurgen Klopp’s side had sur- English Premier Riders (KKR) by five wickets in their fifth win in eight matches rendered pole position a few hours League match their Indian Premier League including three in a row. earlier when Manchester City won against Chelsea (IPL) return leg fixture at the Yesterday, DC defeated Sun- 3-1 at Crystal Palace, piling at Anfield in Eden Gardens here yesterday. risers Hyderabad (SRH) by 39 pressure on the Reds to respond Liverpool, north CSK, who had defeated KKR runs. as the title race heats up. west England, in their first meeting also, con- Contributions from the Liverpool rose to the challenge yesterday. solidated their spot at the top of middle-order helped Delhi Cap- as Sadio Mane’s opener five the table with 14 points from itals finish on 155 for 7 despite minutes after the break and a blis- eight matches. KKR, on the other slowing down from 96 for 3 in tering long-range drive from Salah hand, slumped to their third 11 overs. The SRH opening pair two minutes later moved them straight defeat, remaining on added 72 runs in 9.5 overs but two points clear of second-placed eight points from eight matches. were behind the required rate. City on a raucous afternoon at Tahir (4/27) first played a David Warner scored 51 off 47 Anfield. pivotal role in restricting KKR to balls but found tough to get City have five games left com- 161/8. Chasing a modest 162 for going in the second half. From pared to just four for Liverpool, victory, Raina struck an 101 for 2 in the 16th over, the leaving the destiny of the title in unbeaten 58 off 42 balls (7x4; home side lost eight wickets for the hands of the champions. 1x6), his 36th IPL fifty, adding 41 15 runs across 3.4 overs. But there is a growing feeling runs with Ravindra Jadeja (31 off Brief scores: at Anfield that this will be the Their run-in is undoubtedly legend Tommy Smith passed But Klopp insisted his players 17 balls not out; 4x5) for the sixth Kolkata Knight Riders 161/8 season Liverpool finally end their less daunting than City’s, with away, there was even more wouldn’t be haunted by the wicket. CSK needed 24 in the last in 20 overs (Chris Lynn 82; 29-year wait to be crowned kings Cardiff, Huddersfield and New- emotion at Anfield than usual. ghosts of that collapse and they two overs, but Jadeja hit Harry Imran Tahir 4/27) vs Chennai of English football. castle on the schedule before a After a minute’s silence fea- were true to his word. Liverpool Gurney for a hattrick of fours in Super Kings 162/5 in 19.4 overs Chelsea posed the last major potential title party against turing mosaics reading “30 threatened an early goal when the 19th over to bring the (Suresh Raina 58 not out, threat to Liverpool’s title bid, yet Wolves at Anfield. years” and “96” held up by fans Mane whipped a pin-point cross equation down to eight runs off Ravindra Jadeja 31 not out; Sunil the leaders dealt with the chal- For fourth-placed Chelsea, around the ground, Liverpool’s towards Salah and he fired a six balls. Narine 2/19) lenge impressively to mark the loss was a blow to their bid focus was trained on avenging volley that Chelsea keeper Kepa The India all-rounder then Delhi Capitals 155/7 in 20 Klopp’s 200th game as Reds for Champions League football one of the more painful defeats Arrizabalaga held well. Chelsea creamed Piyush Chawla for a overs (Colin Munro 40, Shreyas manager in style. next season and they will drop in the club’s recent history. were unbeaten in their last eight boundary to hit the winning runs Iyer 45, Khaleel Ahmed 3/30) With City having difficult to fifth if Arsenal win at Watford Steven Gerrard’s infamous matches at Anfield going into yes- as the defending champions won Sunrisers Hyderabad 116-all league fixtures looming against on Monday. slip in 2014 led to a defeat terday’s clash and showed signs with two balls to spare. out in 18.5 overs (David Warner Tottenham and Manchester On the eve of the 30th anni- against Chelsea that effectively of troubling Liverpool when Eden Earlier, recording his best 51, Jonny Bairstow 41, Kagiso United, Klopp’s men are con- versary of the Hillsborough dis- gifted the title to Manchester City Hazard twisted away from Joel figures (4/27) in the competition, Rabada 4 for 22, Chris Morris 3 vinced they can hold onto pole aster that killed 96 Liverpool when Liverpool had looked Matip for a low shot that forced Tahir bowled a game-changing for 22). Delhi Capitals bt Sun- position. fans and in the week that club odds-on to lift the trophy. Alisson Becker into action. 15th over to account for Chris risers Hyderabad by 39 runs Golf: Byberg wins Qatar Senior Open 2019 tournament

THE PENINSULA DOHA

Claes Byberg displayed dazzling form to emerge victorious in the Gross score category of Qatar Senior Open golf tournament organised by Doha Golf Club (DGC) over the weekend. The 2-day competition played on the DGC Championship course attracted 120 golfers. Byberg carded a gross score of 143 after 36 holes while Rashid Akl who scored 146 was declared runner- up. Tittle sponsor of the event was Ammico who has been sponsoring the event since its inception 3 years ago. Ammico CEO Jamal Nasir and Managing partner Fazal Kazi hosted a prize distribution and dinner for all golfers and gave away prizes to all winners. Fahad bin Nasser Al Naimi, General Secretary of the Qatar Golf Association crowned the winner The podium winners at the Qatar Senior Open golf and said that the Qatar Senior Open sponsored by tournament pose for a picture with officials of Qatar Ammico is unique, and has a very good reputation Golf Association at Doha Golf Club. among golf championships in the region. SPORT Monday 15 April 2019 PAGE | 07 PAGE | 11 Al Attiyah Salah’s targets yet stunner helps another Liverpool beat title in ME Chelsea Tiger clinches 15th major title with spectacular Masters show

AFP AUGUSTA returned to form by contending last It completes a fairytale comeback year at the British Open and PGA to the pinnacle of golf for Woods, before snapping a five-year title whose career imploded after a 2009 Tiger Woods won the 83rd Masters drought by capturing the Tour sex scandal before unraveling amid yesterday, capturing his 15th major Championship. injuries and personal problems. title to cement an epic return from Racing to finish before an After battling to overhaul 54-hole scandal and injuries that once oncoming thunderstorm, players leader Francesco Molinari of Italy, threatened his career. created their own electric atmosphere, Woods birdied the par-5 13th to join a Ending an 11-year major drought, spectators roaring repeatedly for sen- lead pack of five at 12-under. the 43-year-old American superstar sational shotmaking on one of golf’s Woods, Molinari, Xander -- who underwent spinal fusion in iconic stages at Augusta National, Schauffele, Brooks Kopeka and Dustin 2017 fearing chronic back pain would where Woods won his first major title Johnson -- with Australian Jason Day deny him life’s simple joys much less in 1997. Woods then drove the green in the clubhouse on 11-under and golf wins -- seized his first major title in two at the par-5 15th and tapped in Patrick Cantlay, who also hit 12-under, since the 2008 US Open. for birdie to seize the lead alone at foiled by bogeys at 16 and 17. Woods fired a final-round two- 13-under par then sank a four-foot Woods and Molinari, in the last under par 70 to finish on 13-under 275 birdie putt at the par-3 16th to stretch trio, each birdied the par-5 13th to TIGER WOODS FACTFILE for a one-shot victory to capture a his advantage to two shots with two reach 12-under while Johnson reeled $2.07m (1.82m euros) top prize and holes remaining. off three consecutive birdies, the last Age: 43 the green jacket symbolising Masters Woods parred 17 and walked up on an 11-foot putt at 17, to make Born: December 30, 1975 supremacy. to the 18th green to crowds 20-people 12-under. Birthplace: Cypress, An all-American trio of three-time deep applauding with delight, but he Schauffele got there on birdies at major winner Brooks Koepka, world kept a stoic visage until the job was 14 and 15 and Koepka by answering a California, USA number two Dustin Johnson and complete, a tap-in for bogey followed double bogey at the par-3 12th with Height: 6-feet-1 (1.85m) Xander Schauffele shared second on by a fist pump and a scream of joy in an eagle at 13 and birdie at 15. Turned Professional: 1996 276. “I don’t know if there are words celebration of a fairytale fightback like None could go lower except Career US PGA Tour wins: 81 -- I’m sure he’s ecstatic about it,” few others in sporting history. Woods, with Molinari undone at the Major titles - 15 (Masters: Koepka said. “To have the injuries and Just off the 18th green, Woods par-5 15th when his approach struck 1997, 2001, 2002, 2005, come back and do what he has done, hugged his mother as he had his late a tree limb and his chip barely clung it has been tremendous to watch.” father Earl in 1997 and held his to the side of a damp slope on the way 2019; US Open 2000, 2002, It was the fifth Masters title for children, his back more than up to the to a double-bogey disaster. 2008; British Open 2000, Woods, his first since 2005, and it task as the crowd chanted his name, Augusta National moved the final 2005, 2006; moved him three shy of the all-time a rare tribute, and rivals congratulated round to Sunday morning due to PGA Championship 1999, record 18 majors won by Jack Nicklaus. him as he entered the clubhouse. storms expected to arrive in the 2000, 2006, 2007) “A big well done from me to Tiger,” Woods, one shy of matching afternoon, when leaders would typi- PGA Tour Player of the Year: Nicklaus told telecaster CBS. Nicklaus for the most career Masters cally be battling for the title. “I’m so happy for him and for the wins, won his 81st career US PGA The Masters, which has not had a 11 (1997, 1999-2003, 2005- game of golf this is so fantastic.” victory, one shy of the all-time record Monday conclusion since 1983, 2007, 2009, 2013) The triumph was the first major held by Sam Snead. decided to cancel its green jacket cer- PGA Tour Money Leader: 10 victory for Woods when he did not He also set a record for the longest emony at the 18th green in order to TigerTTiger (1997, 1999-2002, 2005- lead after 54 holes, having started the gap between Masters triumphs, the hurry spectators to the exits faster. WoodsWoodoodds 2007, 2009, 2013) day two adrift of reigning British Open 14-year spread one year longer than ofoftf thet hehe Highest World Ranking: 1 champion Francesco Molinari. the old mark set by South African Gary PENULTIMATE DAY’S COVERAGE ON PAGE 08 Woods served notice he had Player from 1961 to 1974. (record 683 weeks) Hamilton back on top after Eto’o unveiled as SC Global Ambassador landmark victory in China THE PENINSULA a great honour for me to be an DOHA ambassador for the SC and hope AFP British driver Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes I am able to deliver what is SHANGHAI GP celebrates on the podium after Samuel Eto’o, one of the most expected of me. The World Cup placing first in the F1 Grand Prix of decorated players in world is the biggest competition in Lewis Hamilton won the 1,000th China at Shanghai International Circuit football, has officially joined the football – there is nothing Formula One Grand Prix in Shanghai, China, yesterday. Supreme Committee for bigger – and I think that for the yesterday after grabbing the lead Delivery & Legacy (SC) as a players who have had the from Mercedes team-mate Global Ambassador. chance to play in the World Cup Valtteri Bottas at the first corner Eto’o has won 15 major there is nothing more and powering to victory in honours during his glittering beautiful.” blustery Shanghai. career to-date – a haul that Eto’o continued: “Football Hamilton, who started from includes three UEFA Champions goes much farther than politics second on the grid, took the League victories, four league and it’s important that football world championship lead after titles across spells in Italy and travels the world because it’s romping home to win the Chinese , and one FIFA Club World everywhere – it’s an incredible Grand Prix by more than 6.5 Cup. social force. seconds from Bottas, with Fer- He joins Xavi Hernandez “It has an impact on our rari’s Sebastian Vettel third. and Mohammed Saadon Al lives even if some do not like Max Verstappen of Red Bull Kuwari as official SC football – we are always paying was fourth and Charles Leclerc Ambassadors. attention to football and I am in the second Ferrari was fifth. The former Cameroon happy that Qatar is and will be This was world champion international Eto’o has also the face of it for a month during Hamilton’s sixth victory at the earned 118 international caps – the World Cup, and Qatar will Chinese Grand Prix and second including appearances at four also be the face of the Middle in a row this season. FIFA World Cups between 1998 East.” “To have a one-two (for Mer- and 2014. Commenting on the cedes) is really special in the first corner. “I lost it on the start, tangled with both McLarens of after his Ferrari lost power late In August 2018 he joined announcement, Al Thawadi 1,000th grand prix but the start honestly, shame about the start, Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz, on -- was informed on team QNB Stars League side Qatar welcomed Eto’o to the team was where it made the difference I got some wheel spin on the start earning the Russian a drive- radio after he briefly protested. Sports Club and made a new He said: “Samuel is one of and the rest is history,” said the line,” said Bottas, who also relin- through penalty. Back at the front, the home for himself in the host the most successful footballers Briton. quished his hold on the standings On lap 11, four-time world 34-year-old Hamilton began country of the next FIFA World in the history of the game, and Hamilton was pipped for pole after three races. champion Vettel leapfrogged pulling away, establishing a more Cup and during a special we welcome him to join us on position by Bottas by just 0.023 Talented 21-year-old Leclerc back in front of ’s Leclerc than five-second gap on Bottas signing ceremony with SC Sec- this unique journey. As well as seconds in qualifying and had meanwhile pulled off the same into third following radio orders with a third of the race gone. retary General Hassan Al his remarkable achievements said that he was “struggling with trick at the start at the expense from Ferrari telling the youngster With five-time world Thawadi, officially became on the field, what makes him the car”. of his team-mate Vettel, darting to let him pass. champion Hamilton -- winner in part of the journey on the road stand out is the commitment he But the Finn laboured out of into third. “We do our job, stay focused,” Bahrain two weeks ago -- serene to 2022. has shown to using his profile the blocks, allowing Hamilton to There was more early drama Leclerc -- agonisingly denied up top, the real battles unfolded Upon joining, the four-time to affect positive change away nip in and grab the lead at the when Toro Rosso’s Daniil Kvyat victory last time out in Bahrain behind him. African Player of Year said: “It’s from the professional game.”