FFOOTBALLOOTBALL | Page 2 ATHLETICS | Page 5 Young Lions Bolt shakes off win fi rst world nerves to win title for England fi nal race on in 51 years home soil

Monday, June 12, 2017 MOTOGP Ramadan 17, 1438 AH Dovizioso stays GULF TIMES cool to win searing Catalan GP SPORT Page 4 TENNIS / FRENCH OPEN REACTION ‘Amazing’ Nadal better King Rafa reclaims than ever, says throne with brutal Wawrinka defeat of Wawrinka ‘I’m a little emotional. The nerves and adrenaline I feel on this court is impossible to compare’

Reuters Only Bjorn Borg, who conceded 32 quetaires. “The nerves and adrena- fi rst blood the next time an opportu- ning Wawrinka back behind the Paris on his way to the 1978 title, has been line I feel on this court is impossible nity arose to take a 4-2 lead. baseline. Even when he was stretched a more ruthless champion. to compare.” Then he switched on the after- the response was emphatic, one as- Having beaten world number one Straw hats and fans were de burners. A matter of minutes later tonishing forehand, whipped from laycourt king Rafael Nadal Andy Murray with a majestic display rigueur for an expectant Court Wawrinka wafted a forehand long to close to the front row of seats to land regained his Roland Gar- of power in the semi-fi nal, third seed Philippe Chatrier as the fi nal began hand Nadal a second break of serve in the corner, drawing gasps from the ros throne after two years in Wawrinka arrived full of confi dence with temperatures hovering around and the opening set. crowd and applause from Wawrinka. exile with a brutal 6-2, 6-3, as, at 32, he tried to become the old- the 30 degrees Celcius mark — per- Wawrinka was fl at, striking not a Social media lit up at that point 6-1C mauling of Swiss Stan Wawrinka est French Open winner since Andres fect conditions for Nadal’s trade- single winner off his glorious single- with women’s semi-fi nalist Timea to complete ‘La Decima’ yesterday. Gimeno in 1972. mark monstrous topspin game. handed backhand in the fi rst set, and Bacsinszky tweeting “OMG!” Rewinding the clock to the days But the barrel-chested ‘Stani- Wawrinka, who spent nearly fi ve with less than an hour on the clock Wawrinka could not lay a glove on when he was untouchable on the mal’ was powerless as Nadal turned hours more on court than Nadal to his task already looked forlorn. Nadal and his frustration boiled over AFP crushed brick dust, the 31-year-old the fi nal into an exhibition of his reach the fi nal, looked tentative and Nadal was given a time violation as the Spaniard closed in on a two- Paris turned 2015 champion Wawrinka clayclourt supremacy — taking his heavy-legged although he did have warning at the start of the second, set lead, destroying his racket frame into a human punchbag, winning in French Open record to an eye-water- a glimmer in the third game when but Wawrinka could not halt his after a missed forehand. just over two hours. ing 79-2. Nadal was forced to save a break charge as the Spaniard bounded into After Nadal sealed the second set tan Wawrinka said Rafael Nadal This title, an unprecedented 10th at As a weary Wawrinka sliced a vol- point. a 3-0 lead in the second having won both players left the court while court was back at the peak of his powers a single Grand Slam in the professional ley into the net on match point Nadal seven games in a row. staff watered down the red dust. after storming to an incredible 10th era, was arguably the most impres- collapsed on his back on the base- FIRST BLOOD With the crowd attempting to Nothing could extinguish Nadal’s French Open title yesterday. sive of his 15 though as it arrived three line. Nadal failed to convert any of lift Wawrinka he stopped the rot to fi re though and he surged two breaks SSwiss third seed Wawrinka was trying to injury-plagued years after the last one, “I’m a little emotional,” Nad- the four break points he hold, fi ring himself up with a roar of ahead in the third set despite the best win his second Roland Garros title in three without dropping a set and conceding al said before getting to clamp had in the following “C’mon”. eff orts of Wawrinka to try and extend years but was blown away by Nadal 6-2, only 35 games in seven matches. his jaws on La Coupe des Mous- game, but drew Nadal was relentless though, pin- the contest. 6-3, 6-1. “For sure he’s playing the best he’s ever played. That’s for sure. But not only here,” La Decima said Wawrinka, who lost for the fi rst time in four Grand Slam fi nals. 2005: bt Mariano Puerta (ARG) 6-7, 6-3, 6-1, 7-5 “I think since the beginning of the year, 2006: bt Roger Federer (SUI) 1-6, 6-1, 6-4, 7-6 you can see he’s playing more aggressive, 2007: bt Roger Federer (SUI) 6-3, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 staying more close from the line. “But that’s clearly his best he ever play. 2008: bt Roger Federer (SUI) 6-1, 6-3, 6-0 That’s why he’s winning so much again.” 2010: bt Robin Soderling (SWE) 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 Wawrinka admitted the daunting mental 2011: bt Roger Federer (SUI) 7-5, 7-6, 5-7, 6-1 challenge of facing Nadal on his favourite surface contributed heavily to the crushing 2012: bt Novak Djokovic (SRB) 6-4, 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 defeat. 2013: bt David Ferrer (ESP) 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 “He’s playing his best level on clay. Five- 2014: bt Novak Djokovic (SRB) 3-6, 7-5, 6-2, 6-4 set match, you know, it’s going to be a re- ally tough challenge when you play against 2017: bt Stan Wawrinka (SUI) 6-2, 6-3, 6-1 him,” said the Swiss. “I didn’t play my best tennis for sure, I was a little bit hesitant with my selection of shots. “When you play against Rafa, if you hes- itate, it’s no good. If you hesitate for half a second, it’s too late. You will be late. “Physically I felt good, but mentally it was tough.” Wawrinka arrived in Paris fresh off winning a clay court title in Geneva and knocked out world number one Andy Mur- ray in a fi ve-set thriller in the semi-fi nals. But the 32-year-old, the oldest Roland Garros fi nalist in 44 years, had no answers as Nadal eclipsed Pete Sampras on the all- time list of major champions with 15 titles. “He’s an amazing fi ghter. On clay he’s just tough to play. There is always one ball coming back. He creates doubts that you Spain’s Rafael Nadal celebrates winning the cannot have if you want to beat him. French Open final against Switzerland’s Stan “I think today, if you play Rafa, if you’re Wawrinka at Roland Garros in Paris yesterday. not completely free with what you think (Right) Nadal celebrates with the trophy and and what you’re gonna do and not com- his Uncle Toni. (Reuters) pletely relaxed the way you’re gonna play, you have no chance.”

Mattek-Sands and Safarova third straight major Injured Sharapova to miss grasscourt season

American Bethanie Mattek-Sands majority of the hour-long contest ormer world number one Maria snubbed by French Open off icials. Stanford.” and the Czech Republic’s Lucie after their serve was broken Sharapova will miss the grasscourt The Russian’s low ranking meant she was The Stanford tournament begins at the end Safarova claimed their third con- three times in each set. Fseason, including this month’s Wim- only guaranteed a place in the Wimbledon of July. secutive grand slam doubles title Mattek-Sands, however, praised bledon qualifying tournament, after failing qualifying event if she wanted to secure a The five-times grand slam winner, who with a convincing 6-2 6-1 victory her opponents, who had dropped to recover from a left-thigh injury she suf- place in the July 3-16 grasscourt major. received wildcards to play in Stuttgart, over Australian duo Ashleigh just one set on their way to the fered during last month’s Italian Open. However, the 2004 Wimbledon champion Madrid and Rome after being left without Barty and Casey Dellacqua at the final. “You guys have done a great “After an additional scan, the muscle tear was granted a wildcard for the grasscourt a ranking when her doping ban ended, French Open on Sunday. job and you’re an awesome team,” that I sustained in Rome will unfortunately warm-up tournament in Birmingham, Eng- retired injured in her second round match The top-seeded pair of Mattek- the 32-year-old said. “I’m sure we’re not allow me to compete in the grass court land, which she will also miss. at the Italian Open. Sands and Safarova, who also won gonna be facing you again soon.” tournaments I was scheduled to play,” “I want to thank the LTA for their amazing She was wearing a bandage on her thigh at the 2016 US Open and the Austral- The Australian pair reached three Sharapova, who is on a comeback trail after support on my return and providing me the time. ian Open earlier this year, are one grand slam finals together in serving a 15-month doping ban, said on her with a Birmingham wildcard, a tournament Missing the whole grasscourt season grand slam away from holding all 2013 without taking home the off icial Facebook page. which I hope many of you will be able to at- means the 30-year-old Russian will not be four majors at the same time. trophy and were unable to end Sharapova opted not to apply for a wild- tend,” added the 178th-ranked Sharapova. ranked high enough for direct entry into The Australian duo, who were their long wait in Paris, while card into the main Wimbledon draw after “I look forward to meeting you there next the US Open, where off icials will have to bidding for their first grand slam Dellacqua’s overall record in her request for an invite into Roland Garros, year. I will continue to work on my recovery decide whether to court controversy by title together, struggled for the women’s doubles finals is 0-7. where she is a twice former champion, was and my next scheduled tournament is in off ering a wildcard. Gulf Times 2 Monday, June 12, 2017 FOOTBALL

U-20 WORLD CUP PRAISE Southgate heartened Young Lions win by England’s resolve fi rst world title for

England in 51 years England’s manager Gareth Southgate applauds supporters. (AFP) AFP previous matches. Glasgow “It was an important moment ‘I was knackered from the celebration... words can’t describe it all. It means everything. for the team and an important moment individually for Harry,” It’s what you dream of as a kid, playing for your country and winning a World Cup’ ngland manager Ga- Southgate told his post-match reth Southgate said his media conference. team’s last-gasp 2-2 “I’ve a feeling we might have draw against Scotland been sitting here talking about demonstratedE the kind of mental how long it was since he last fortitude he is trying to instil in scored for England if he hadn’t his players. scored. England shipped two late “It was brilliant for him that Leigh Griffi ths free-kicks in Sat- in a pressure moment, he ex- urday’s 2018 World Cup qualifi er ecuted a skill that he made look at Hampden Park, only for new a lot easier than it actually was. captain Harry Kane to rescue I think it’s a signifi cant goal for a point by volleying in a 93rd- many diff erent reasons.” minute equaliser. Southgate is trying to rebuild ‘SCOTLAND’S BEST FREE-KICK’ England’s confi dence after the On a sun-kissed Glasgow after- shock of last year’s Euro 2016 noon, England took the lead in humiliation by Iceland and said the 70th minute when substitute his players’ perseverance in the Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s left- face of improbable odds was a foot strike beat home goalkeeper sign that they are on the right Craig Gordon’s fl imsy attempt at path. a save. “I think it’s a huge moment for It was the cue for Griffi ths the team,” said Southgate, who to take centre-stage, the Celtic took his squad to a military train- striker arcing a 25-yard free-kick ing camp on a team-building ex- inside the right-hand post in the ercise last week. 87th minute and then curling a “The questions around us shot into the other side of the centre on character and the abil- goal three minutes later. ity to withstand events that go England goalkeeper Joe Hart, against you. That’s what we’ve whose Manchester City future got to show. remains in limbo following a loan “We have to be a team that are spell at Torino, got nowhere near never beaten. We have to be a either shot, by Southgate ab- team that, maybe the clock runs solved him of blame. out, but you never, ever stop. “I thought he was extremely “Today we’ve done that. Is it composed with the ball at his feet what we wanted when we turned and his focus through the week, up here? No, it isn’t. But the he’s been one of the outstanding chain of events is remarkable re- leaders in the group,” said South- ally.” gate, whose side remain top of Kane’s goal was the Totten- UEFA qualifying Group F. ham Hotspur striker’s sixth in 18 “I’m sure he’ll be disappointed international appearances and to concede any goal. We’ll have came at the end of his fi rst game a look in more detail, but you’ve under Southgate, after injuries got to credit Leigh Griffi ths with England’s players celebrate with the trophy during the awards ceremony after winning the U-20 World Cup final against Venezuela in Suwon. (AFP) had kept him out of England’s six two outstanding strikes.”

AFP saving Adalberto Penaranda spot-kick Stadium, near Seoul. was parried by Farinez. Suwon, South Korea 16 minutes from the end. “Congratulations @England u20’s! He made no mistake as the rebound fell REPLACED “Words can’t describe right now what Amazing achievement to be world cham- to him, coolly slotting home with his left I’m feeling, I’m just trying to take it all pions!” tweeted the Premier League’s top foot at the near post. ominic Calvert-Lewin scored in,” Calvert-Lewin said, according to the scorer. Venezuela took control after half-time and Freddie Woodman saved a FIFA website. as the tiny but lively substitute Yeferson Goalkeeper Hart penalty as England beat Ven- “I was knackered from the celebration, COOL CALVERT-LEWIN Soteldo, who stands just 5ft 3in (160cm) ezuela 1-0 to win the Under-20 but honestly, words can’t describe it all. England had the better of the early ex- tall, energised his side. WorldD Cup yesterday, ending the nation’s It means everything. It’s what you dream changes with Solanke forcing a save from One of his fi rst passes sent Sergio Cor- likely to miss out for 51-year wait for a global trophy. of as a kid, playing for your country and Wuilker Farinez and seeing a long-range dova clear but Woodman fl ew off his line Everton striker Calvert-Lewin became winning a World Cup.” eff ort go wide in the opening quarter of to make a crucial save. only the third England player to score in There were double celebrations as an hour. Josh Onomah almost gave England a England in France a World Cup fi nal after Geoff Hurst and England striker Dominic Solanke, who is Venezuela, who have never qualifi ed two-goal cushion when he ran unopposed Martin Peters in 1966 — the last time newly signed for Liverpool from Chelsea, for the senior World Cup, were also mak- to rattle the crossbar from distance. England won a world title at any level. was awarded the Golden Ball for player of ing their fi rst fi nal appearance and took Venezuela by now were pouring forward England captain Lewis Cook, who plays the tournament. time to settle until Ronaldo Lucena’s and their pressure appeared to have paid off for Premier League side Bournemouth, re- Solanke scored four goals in South Ko- stunning free-kick hit the post in the when Penaranda was brought down by Jake ceived the trophy from FIFA president Gi- rea and joins a stellar list of past winners 24th minute from 40 metres. Clarke-Salter and the referee Bjorn Kuipers anni Infantino before hoisting it high above that includes Diego Maradona, Lionel Calvert-Lewin had already come pointed to the spot, with his decision con- his head to spark frenzied celebrations Messi, Sergio Aguero, Luis Figo and Paul close with a header when he scored fi rmed by video review. from England’s Young Lions. Pogba, the world’s most expensive player. what proved to be the winner in the 35th Penaranda got up to take the spot- After Calvert-Lewin’s goal on 35 Senior England captain Harry Kane, minute. kick only to see his eff ort down the mid- minutes, Cook’s side withstood a fe- who is only 23 himself, was one of the The striker rose to beat Nahuel Ferrar- dle saved as the diving Woodman fl ung a rocious second-half onslaught, with fi rst to praise his younger countrymen esi to high ball on the edge of the box and hand behind him, and England held out goalkeeper Woodman dramatically on their victory in the Suwon World Cup as the ball dropped his right-foot shot for their long-awaited World Cup win.

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England’s Joe Hart during training. (Reuters)

Reuters Danny Mills on the BBC. London “People have questioned England fans ‘ecstatic’ with win Gareth – is he sharp enough AFP with the result. to make those decisions? Is he Suwon, South Korea Despite the jubilation, some ngland keeper Joe Hart brave enough? Well, he dropped fans complained that they had is likely to be replaced Wayne Rooney as soon as got the struggled to watch all the World for tomorrow’s friendly job, which was a massive deci- ngland supporters cel- Cup games, calling South Ko- against France in Paris, sion. Jack Butland, I assume, is ebrated wildly yesterday rea’s TV coverage of the tourna- addingE further uncertainty to his going to play against France.” after the Young Lions beat ment disappointing. career prospects after a year of Manchester City’s Hart, who Venezuela to win the Un- “It has been very bad since turbulence for club and country. made his England debut in 2008, der-20E World Cup in South Korea, South Korea dropped out. None The 30-year-old was criti- has been unopposed as England’s ending England’s decades-long of the major television networks cised for standing leaden-footed number one for seven years and wait for a global title. were broadcasting the game. in the England goal as two free three international tournaments. Fans had been swarming the I’m surprised FIFA is not kicks from Scotland’s Leigh Grif- But last season he was dropped Suwon World Cup Stadium for (upset) about it,” England fan fi ths sailed either side of him into by club manager Pep Guardiola, hours before the match kicked David, who declined to give his the net in the dramatic end to who sent him out on loan to Ital- off , with many England sup- last name because he works in Saturday’s World Cup qualifi er ian side Torino and last week porters listening to live K-Pop the entertainment industry, told at Hampden Park. signed his replacement at Man performances amid tight secu- England’s goalkeeper Freddie AFP. Although England recovered City: Brazilian keeper Ederson rity at the arena. Woodman celebrates winning “One of the games with Eng- to draw the game 2-2, Hart was has joined for what British media The raucous crowd roared their England’s forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin (R) celebrates their win the U-20 World Cup final. (AFP) land, the semi-fi nal, wasn’t on criticised by some observers for reported was 35 million pounds approval when Everton striker after the U-20 World Cup final against Venezuela in Suwon. (AFP) television so I was extremely not getting closer to either of ($44.59 million), a world record Dominic Calvert-Lewin scored England fan Tom Norris said frustrated,” said James Hall- Griffi ths’ strikes. fee for a goalkeeper. what would be the game’s only from England, as he emerged reached the last four of the 2016 yesterday’s fi nal — when goal- worth from England. England manager Gareth Hart accepts he must fi nd goal on 35 minutes to hand Eng- from the packed stadium after European Championship, and keeper Freddie Woodman saved Many South Korean fans had Southgate probably always in- a new club for next season al- land their fi rst U-20 world title. the match, surrounded by jubi- the U-17s made last month’s Eu- a penalty 16 minutes from the come to watch the game — but tended to sideline his keeper in though his time in Italy drew The last time an England’s lant fans wearing England shirts. ropean fi nal. end — had been a thriller to said they were “just here for the favour of Stoke City’s Jack Butland only mixed reviews, and a poten- men’s team lifted any World “I’m extremely excited. On a Before arriving in South watch. atmosphere” and hadn’t sup- for tomorrow’s friendly, but Hart’s tial buyer willing to meet City’s Cup trophy was 51 years ago in scale of 10, it’d be 10 out of 10,” Korea, England hadn’t won a “I thought Venezuela played ported either side. display has now opened the way expected 25 million pounds valu- 1966, since when the national said England supporter George match at the U-20 World Cup a very well. I feel sorry for them “I would have cheered for for a permanent challenge. ation has yet to emerge. team haven’t reached any major Skuse. for 20 years, but after beating but I’m happy,” he told AFP. South Korea if they had made it “I think the decision was al- While Guardiola has criticised fi nals. Decades of failure at national six-time champions Argentina “It was a good game,” said to the fi nals but today, I’m happy ready made. Joe Hart was never Hart’s distribution, England will “We’re very happy. Ecstatic, level has given way to a sense of 3-0 in their opening game, they David Baker from England, add- whoever wins,” said 25-year-old going to play both games,” said also be concerned about his ten- actually,” said David La Boon optimism, after England’s U19s haven’t looked back. ing that he was “very happy” Lee Jun-Woo. former England international dency to concede from free kicks. Gulf Times Monday, June 12, 2017 3 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT MOVING ON Capello to skipper Chastened Brazil China’s Jiangsu Suning AFP Shanghai

ormer England, Real Ma- drid and Russia manager Fabio Capello was named Fyesterday to lead China’s to take no chances Jiangsu Suning, one of the big- gest coaching signings yet in a spending binge by the Chinese domestic league. Jiangsu Suning said the dis- ciplinarian Italian would “bring some of the world’s most ad- vanced ideas and methods to File picture of Fabio Capello. against Australia drive the elevation of Jiangsu football, and Chinese football Milan. overall”. Capello is the latest Capello was appointed Eng- ‘They won the game so they have nearly qualified to the World Cup as well. When high-profi le import to China land manager in December 2007, following rocketing player deals signing a lucrative contract with teams are close or already qualified for the World Cup, they have something special’ which reportedly put Ezequiel a brief to halt years of English Lavezzi and Carlos Tevez among footballing under-achievement. the world’s best-paid footballers His hard-line disciplinarian and saw Chinese clubs smash the approach reaped impressive re- Asian transfer record fi ve times sults during a honeymoon pe- within 12 months. riod, when a revitalised England Jiangsu Suning have been par- qualifi ed for the 2010 World Cup ticularly free-spending, splash- with ease. ing out on high-priced imports But Capello’s fi rst taste of like Brazilians Ramires and Alex management at a major inter- Teixeira. national tournament ended in But a disappointing season humiliation as England crashed was compounded by elimina- out with a 4-1 defeat against old tion from the AFC Champions rivals Germany in the last 16. League two weeks ago, and they He survived the storm of criti- are now fl irting with relegation cism following that failure and from China’s top tier. guided England to qualifi cation Jiangsu announced the depar- for Euro 2012. ture of South Korean coach Choi But the Italian resigned before Yong-Soo shortly after their the tournament after disagree- Champions League exit. ing with the Football Association over the decision to take the cap- GLITTERING C.V. taincy from John Terry, who was Capello, now 70, brings a glitter- facing racism allegations. ing resume. He won fi ve Serie A Appointed to the Russia job titles — four with AC Milan and after Euro 2012, Capello over- one with Roma — plus two La saw an impressive qualifying Liga crowns with Real Madrid. campaign for Brazil, reaching He also won the Champions the World Cup fi nals for the fi rst League during his time with time in 12 years.

Former Brazil player yesterday. “I’m working hard. Carlos denies doping So hopefully I can join the allegations rest of the lads for preseason - maybe not 100 percent but Former Brazil defender Rob- I am increasing day by day erto Carlos hit out at allega- the work and hopefully being tions he took illegal stimulants ready for the first Premier as “lies” on Saturday and League game. vowed judicial action against “Watching from the sidelines is the German TV network that one of the most diff icult things,” made them. said Gundogan, who joined City A documentary aired by the from Borussia Dortmund for 20 Brazil’s head coach Tite (C) gives instructions to his players during a training session in Melbourne. (AFP) ARD network said the leg- million pounds ($25.48 million) endary full back was named last June. AFP replace injured Manchester City striker “Nobody can go to the World Cup chester City teammate Nicolas Otamendi. in a dossier given by Brazil’s “I’m staying longer in Melbourne Gabriel Jesus, are taking no chances and because they’re lucky, they have to do Jesus was initially given the all-clear anti-doping agency to the Manchester than the rest have scouted the 48th-ranked Austral- something important. That’s why we re- after precautionary tests but the Brazil public prosecutor’s off ice in of the squad. They are now ians ahead of their Melbourne game. spect them a lot and are focused to play football federation said after a more de- Sao Paulo in 2015. on holiday but I am staying he world’s number one team Bra- Brazil have already qualifi ed for next against them very well.” tailed examination, a fracture was diag- Reuters was unable to inde- longer and I’m also coming zil will not be under-estimating year’s World Cup fi nals in Russia while He was backed by Brazil’s young Liver- nosed around his left eye. pendently verify the allega- back earlier to have my own Australia as they bid to rebound Australia kept alive their automatic pool star Philippe Coutinho, who played Australia will also be without left tions in the documentary. little preseason before the rest from their Superclasico loss to qualifying hopes with a 3-2 win over the in the defeat to Argentina before more wing-back Brad Smith, who has also The former Real Madrid of the team starts.” TArgentina, offi cials said yesterday. 53rd-ranked Saudi Arabia in Adelaide on than 95,000 fans at the MCG on Friday. been ruled out of this month’s Confed- player called the allegations Gundogan’s recovery raises The fi ve-time World Cup champions Thursday. “We’re expecting a great game, nowa- erations Cup in Russia after suff ering a “extremely vague” and said the possibility that he could are eager to bounce back from their 1-0 “We sent someone to watch the game,” days football in general worldwide is very hamstring strain against the Saudis. his lawyers were taking action feature on City’s pre-season loss to their great South American rivals Brazil team co-ordinator Edu Gaspar said similar and tough so I expect a tough His place in the squad has been taken to refute them. tour to the United States in Tuesday’s friendly against the Con- yesterday. game and I’m looking forward to it,” by Alex Gersbach, who will join the team “I vehemently repudiate the where they will compete in the federations Cup-bound Socceroos in “It’s important for us to follow the Continho said. in Russia. irresponsible accusations International Champions Cup Melbourne. team and learn about the team, and Aus- “It’s going to be a great game. I’m very “It’s a shame for Brad that he picked up made by the German network alongside Manchester United, A goal from Sevilla defender Gabriel tralia is the same. excited.” that minor hamstring strain against Sau- ARD and reaff irm that I never Tottenham Hotspur and Real Mercado just before half-time meant a “They are doing well — they won the Tite will have to fi nd a replacement for di Arabia,” coach Ange Postecoglou said. used any artifice that gave Madrid at the end of July. morale-boosting victory for Argentina game so they have nearly qualifi ed to the Jesus, who sustained a broken eye socket “It is not a serious injury but the recov- me an advantage over my The Premier League kicks off under their new manager Jorge Sampaoli World Cup as well. during the loss to Argentina. ery time required for Brad to get back onto colleagues,” he said in a state- on Aug. 12. and was Brazil’s fi rst loss in manager “When teams are close or already Jesus was carried from the fi eld late in the pitch made it diffi cult for him to be ment sent to Reuters. Tite’s year-long tenure. qualifi ed for the World Cup, they have the game after being hit by a stray elbow ready and he is better off returning to AFC “All my career I have fought Man Utd agree to sign The Brazilians, who will be forced to something special. during an aerial challenge with his Man- Bournemouth in the UK to start his rehab.” for fairness and above all Swedish defender loyalty,” the former Palmeiras, Lindelof Corinthians and Fenerbahce AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS left-back said. Manchester United have “The lying accusations against reached an agreement to sign me are completely against Swedish international centre- the way I think. In a career back Victor Lindelof from spanning more than 20 years Benfica for 35 million euros, I never tested positive for any the Europa League champions substance that would modify announced on Saturday. Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Zambia my performance.” “Manchester United is The Brazilian Football Confed- pleased to announce that eration did not immediately it has reached agreement respond to requests for com- with Benfica for the transfer ment on the issue. of Victor Lindelof, subject suff er shock losses The defender, who is currently to a medical examination, AFP and substitute Percy Tau in the Guinea-Bissau, shock quali- a director at Real Madrid, won international clearance and Abuja second half sunk the home team fi ers for the 2017 Cup of Nations, La Liga four times and the personal terms,” United said in and the visitors were unlucky edged past Namibia thanks to a Champions League on three a statement. not to have scored more goals in Jerson goal on 24 minutes in the occasions with the Spanish “A further announcement will ormer African champions the Group E clash. other Group K fi xture. club, as well as lifting titles in be made once the transfer is Nigeria, Ivory Coast and “My young team tried their Cameroon and Malawi both Brazil and Turkey. complete.” Zambia all lost at home best, there was a mistake for the won in Group B. The Portuguese club later Saturday on a day of up- fi rst goal and the second goal Reigning champions Cam- City’s Gundogan confirmed that the deal was setsF in the fi rst qualifying round was a gift,” admitted Nigeria eroon pipped Morocco 1-0 in targets start of season worth 35 million euros (£31m, for the 2019 Cup of Nations. coach Gernot Rohr. Yaounde while Malawi beat the aft er injury $39.5m) and also included a 10 Three-time champions Ni- Libya top Group E after a 5-1 Comoros by the same scoreline million euro bonus. geria lost a competitive game spanking of Seychelles on Friday in Blantyre. Manchester City midfielder Il- Lindelof, 22, joined Benfica against South Africa for the fi rst in Cairo, Egypt. In Group I, the Zebras of Bot- kay Gundogan said yesterday from home-town club Vaste- time when they fell 2-0 in the In Bouake, the Elephants of swana lost 1-0 to Mauritania in that he hopes to be fit for the ras SK in 2012 and has won southern Nigerian town of Uyo Ivory Coast went down to Guin- front of their fans in Francistown start of the new season after three Portuguese league titles in Group E. ea despite a brace by Seydou after they failed to put away recovering from the cruciate and two Portuguese Cups dur- While in Group H the Ivory Doumbia. many chances. knee ligament injury that has ing his time in Lisbon. Coast, who had vowed to win Germany-based striker Naby This gutsy contest was de- prevented him from playing Lindelof is in line to become in memory of former teammate Keita fi red the winner for Guinea cided on 78 minutes when sub- competitive football this year. the second centre-back signed Cheick Tiote, who collapsed in the 79th minute. stitute Abdoulaye Soudani con- The 26-year-old Germany by United manager Jose and died in China this week, Zambia also got off to a losing trolled a long ball before fi ring international impressed in his Mourinho following last year’s slumped 3-2 to fellow west Afri- start on the road to Cameroon past the Botswana goalkeeper. first season for the club, play- £30 million capture of Ivory cans Guinea in Bouake. 2019 when they lost for the fi rst Hosts Burkina Faso won the ing 16 games before sustain- Coast international Eric Bailly Zambia, champions in 2012, time to Mozambique at home. other Group I tie against An- ing the serious injury against from Villarreal. fell 1-0 at home to a daring Mo- Stanley Ratifo grabbed the gola 3-1 with big striker Aristide Watford on Dec. 14. Mourinho also has Chris zambican side in Group K. last-gasp match winner when he Bance bagging a brace. Gundogan returned to light Smalling and Phil Jones, along New South Africa coach Stuart stabbed home a low cross. Burundi beat South Sudan training last week, working with Argentinean Marcos Rojo, Baxter labelled his team the un- Before then, Chipolopolo 3-0 in Group C with Mali fought with the ball for the first time. while Dutch utility man Daley derdogs going by their poor head- goalkeeper and captain Kennedy back from a goal down to beat “I think I’m in a good way,” he Blind has slotted into central to-head record against Nigeria. Ivory Coast’s Sio Giovanni (C) fights for the ball with Guinea Francois Mweene had to pull off a point- Gabon 2-1 in Bamako in the oth- told the club’s off icial website defence on occasion. But goals by Tokelo Rantie Kamano (L) during their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations match. (AFP) blank save to deny the visitors. er group game. Gulf Times 4 Monday, June 12, 2017 SPORT

MOTOGP AIM Fiji eye Six Nations scalps to boost Dovizioso stays World Cup hopes cool to win searing Catalan Grand Prix ‘It was a strange race, we couldn’t push any lap because the rear tyre drops a lot, but I File picture of Fiji players in action. (Reuters) had the speed so I was able to manage and stay on the front without pushing’ AFP stronger squad to choose from.” Melbourne Winger Patrick Osborne will join the squad after his club AFP Otago Highlanders take on the Montmeló, Spain iji are looking forward British and Irish Lions this week, to bolstering their play- while Toulon back Josua Tuisova ing strength ahead of will return home after playing in taly’s Andrea Dovizioso sealed back- next month’s World Cup the Top 14 fi nal in France. to-back MotoGP wins by cruising to Fqualifi ers with two key lead-up While the Wallabies were too victory under searing temperatures Tests against Six Nations oppo- good for his side, McKee said at the Catalan GP yesterday. sition, coach John McKee saiad. there was cause for optimism in IDovizioso, who won just his third The Fijians showed glimpses the coming weeks. MotoGP race on home soil at the Italian of their potential in going down McKee said 10th-ranked Grand Prix last weekend, led home Hon- 37-14 to Australia in Melbourne Fiji would fancy their chances da’s Spanish duo Marc Marquez and Dani on Saturday, but McKee said he against 15th-ranked Italy, having Pedrosa in a time of 44min 41.518secs. was looking at the bigger picture. beaten them in all three of their Victory also sees Dovizioso close to Fiji will host Italy and Scot- previous Tests in Fiji. within seven points of championship land in Suva over the next two “When you look at the rank- leader Maverick Vinales as the Yamaha weeks before they take on Samoa ings and you look at the recent rider completed a disappointing week- and Tonga for a place in the 2019 performances, you would think end by fi nishing 10th. World Cup in Japan. that Italy could be a weaker op- With on track temperatures rising to The winner of the Oceania position, but I don’t like to say over 50 degrees Celsius the race was unu- qualifying will earn a place in the that,” he said. sually settled at the front for a long spell same pool as the Wallabies in the “We’ve really got to concen- as all the riders aimed to protect their World Cup and McKee said top- trate on playing our game. Our tyres. ping that tournament was Fiji’s challenge this week will be work- “It was a strange weekend for every- main objective. ing on a few areas of our game body to manage the track, the grip, the “Every week we play, we go out that we didn’t execute so well temperature, it was very diffi cult,” said to win Test matches, that’s what against the Wallabies and make Dovizioso. we’re there for but the eye is on sure we rectify that for next “It was a strange race, we couldn’t push the big goal at the end and we’ve week.” any lap because the rear tyre drops a lot, got to make sure we’re develop- He added that Italy’s style of but I had the speed so I was able to manage ing our game,” McKee told re- play meant Fiji would have the and stay on the front without pushing.” porters after Saturday’s Test. opportunities in the wider chan- “Next week we’ll have a few nels if the players could get the Results & Standings players back so we’ll have a ball there quickly. MOTOGP 1. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA/Ducati) 2. Marc Marquez (ESP/Honda) Jones hails England Coach Cheika seeks 3. Dani Pedrosa (ESP/Honda) win as one of the best Wallabies bounce for 4. Jorge Lorenzo (ESP/Ducati) of his career Scotland encounter 5. Johann Zarco (FRA/Yamaha) 6. Jonas Folger (GER/Yamaha) England coach Eddie Jones Australia coach Michael 7. Alvaro Bautista (ESP/Ducati) said his young team’s nerve- Cheika has urged his side to 8. Valentino Rossi (ITA/Yamaha) Ducati’s Italian rider Andrea Dovizioso celebrates with the trophy on the podium after winning the Catalunya Grand Prix. (AFP) jangling 38-34 win over Argen- step up a gear in next week- 9. Hector Barbera (ESP/Ducati) tina in San Juan was among end’s test against an improv- 10. Maverick Vinales (ESP/Yamaha) The Ducati rider had been happy to sit the best of his career. ing Scotland side after the in between the Honda riders as Pedrosa Marquez delivers Moto2 win Mir extends Moto3 lead with An England side shorn of its Wallabies opened their June Standings led from pole position. on home soil Catalan GP win best players due to the British campaign with a comfort- 1. Maverick Vinales (ESP/Yamaha) 111 However, Dovizioso made his move and Irish Lions tour showed able 37-14 victory over Fiji on 2. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA/Ducati) 104 with nine laps to go and quickly eased Alex Marquez produced a flawless per- Spain’s Joan Mir produced a stunning nerve and composure on Sat- Saturday. 3. Marc Marquez (ESP/Honda) 88 out into a comfortable lead with Marquez formance to win the Catalan Moto2 GP final lap to win for the fourth time in urday, with a try at the death Cheika’s men were fairly also leaving his teammate behind in the from pole position yesterday to jump seven races this season and extend his by Denny Solomona securing untroubled in Melbourne MOTO2 battle for second. back into contention for the world lead in the Moto3 world championship victory in a classic encounter. and Scotland were equally as 1. Alex Marquez (ESP/Kalex) Marquez leapfrogs Valentino Rossi into championship. Marquez, the brother at the Catalan Grand Prix yesterday. “I thought it was an incredible ruthless when they gave new 2. Mattia Pasini (ITA/Kalex) third in the championship standings, 21 of three-time MotoGP world champion Mir passed Romano Fenati and Jorge game of rugby,” said Jones. coach Gregor Townsend a 3. Thomas Luthi (SUI/Kalex) points further back on Dovizioso, as Ros- Marc Marquez, is clearly inspired by Martin, who finished second and third “For our guys to win that was winning start with a compre- si could also only manage eighth. a home crowd as his only previous respectively, on his final lap around a tremendous eff ort. In the hensive 34-13 five-try triumph Standings: “It was not an easy weekend,” said Moto2 win came earlier this season at the Montmelo circuit to extend his end, I think we had 10 new over Italy in Singapore later on 1. Franco Morbidelli (ITA/Kalex) 123 Marquez, who crashed four times in the Spanish Grand Prix. championship lead to 45 points over caps on there. To show poise Saturday. 2. Thomas Lüthi (SUI/Kalex) 116 practice and qualifying on Saturday. Italy’s Mattia Pasini and Swiss rider Fenati. and stick to what we needed The manner of Scotland’s 3. Alex Marquez (ESP/Kalex) 103 “I never give up. I just push, push, push Thomas Luthi completed the podium. Aron Canet slips to third in the stand- to do in the circumstances victory impressed Cheika and all weekend and then during the race I However, championship leader Franco ings after he could only manage fifth was an unbelievable eff ort despite the side missing three MOTO3 saw fi rst of all my target was to fi nish in Morbidelli could only manage sixth. behind Enea Bastianini. from the young guys. key players to British and Irish 1. Joan Mir (ESP/Honda) front of Dani because I thought he was “When you are playing a full- Lions duty in New Zealand, the 2. Romano Fenati (ITA/Honda) the fastest. strength Argentina team that Australia coach is braced for 3. Jorge Martin (ESP/Honda) “But Dovi today again was one step the tyres were suff ering a lot,” said Ped- a lot in the straight and towards the end is a great eff ort. I think it is one a tough encounter in Sydney faster than us, especially on the main rosa. of the race I lost more and more grip.” of the best team eff orts I have next Saturday. Standings: straight.” “Since the fi rst lap I couldn’t push, I Dovizioso’s Ducati teammate Jorge been associated with.” “Gregor Townsend is a pretty 1. Joan Mir (ESP/Honda) 133 Pedrosa moves up to fourth in the didn’t feel the grip. Lorenzo had started from second on the Tries by Marland Yarde, Jonny progressive coach, he’s got a 2. Romano Fenati (ITA/Honda) 88 world championship on the back of a “I was trying to manage the tyres to see grid, but the three-time world champion May, George Ford and Solomo- few new ideas,” Cheika told 3. Aron Canet (ESP/Honda) 85 fourth podium fi nish in the last fi ve races. at the end if I could stay in my rhythm, slipped well down the fi eld before recov- na laid the foundation for the reporters yesterday. “Basically (it was) a tough race because but Dovi was very fast today, catching me ering with a fl ying fi nal lap to seal fourth. victory, but the performance “He’s got a pretty complete of flyhalf George Ford, who squad. They are only missing scored 23 points, kept England a few to the Lions, so they FORMULA ONE in a match that seemed to looked pretty sharp I thought. have got away from them on There were some clear things several occasions. you could see they were “He was absolutely brilliant,” trying to do and they scored said Jones. three or four tries off moves.” “There were guys who made Scotland enjoyed a solid Six Hamilton races to Canada victory mistakes, but they didn’t dwell Nations tournament earlier on them. Denny made two this year, recording wins over horrendous errors in defence Ireland, Wales and Italy under AFP but got one back. previous coach Vern Cotter Montreal “Tom Curry made some errors and Cheika expects Townsend but got on with it. That was to carry on the good work the good thing: they just got of his predecessor with an ewis Hamilton won the on with the next thing.” emerging group. Canadian Grand Prix for Solomona showed with his “With Vern and now with Gre- the sixth time yesterday, winning try what a threat he gor, with their attacking game and the third year in a is in attack, but within three they are looking to play quite Lrow, to cut Sebastian Vettel’s minutes of his debut, off the sharp, a lot of attacking kicks,” overall lead to 12 points and put bench, he had been exposed he added. Formula One champions Mer- horribly in defence for the “Even small things like cedes back on top of the podium. Pumas’ third and fourth tries. pretending to go for touch The Briton led from start to “He is going to be doing some and taking a quick tap and fi nish, after qualifying on pole defensive work next week,” running. at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve said Jones. “If you see him “You’ve got to stay on the job for the sixth time, to chalk up his tackling tackle bags in the all the time, and then they’ve 56th career grand prix victory streets of Buenos Aires you’ll got the other side where they and third of the season. know why.” can play it tight and play a Hamilton’s Finnish teammate England blooded 10 new caps, mauling game. Valtteri Bottas sealed a Mercedes six of them from the bench. “We’re going to have to step one-two, fi nishing 19.7 seconds “I thought young Curry did up from what we did last behind Hamilton, with Austral- well. Mark Wilson did well. weekend.” ian Daniel Ricciardo third for Red Charlie Ewels ran the lineout Cheika ruled out making Bull for the third race in a row. well against a good lineout wholesale changes to the side Ferrari’s Vettel, winner of team,” Jones added. that eased past Fiji but admit- three of the previous six races, “Henry Slade showed some ted he could make “one or fi nished fourth after losing plac- nice classy touches, which we two changes”. “We’ll consider es at the start and then dropping have seen sporadically but we everyone again for selection, a further down the fi eld when he saw more of it in one game raw slate and then we’ll just go had to pit to replace a damaged today.” from there,” he added. front wing. Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton celebrates winning the Canadian GP on the podium in Montreal yesterday. (Reuters) Gulf Times Monday, June 12, 2017 5 SPORT

ATHLETICS NBA Mellower Green playing game fi ve Bolt shakes off aft er 2016 ban

AFP to close this thing out,” Green Oakland, United States said. “I’ve won one on the road. I want to see how it feels to win at home. We have to come out olden State War- with some fi re and try it get nerves to win fi nal riors starting for- done. ward Draymond “Thank God I get to play in Green won’t be stuck game fi ve.” Gwatching game fi ve of the NBA Green did get whistled for Finals from the stadium next a technical foul in game four door this year. Friday for a fl ailing arm, what The outspoken 27-year-old was momentarily thought to will try to help the Warriors, be an ejecting off ense as a sec- race on home soil who lead this year’s best-of- ond technical. But the scorer seven series 3-1, defeat the de- recorded a technical foul on ‘I don’t think I have ever been that nervous to run the 100 metres. Just the atmosphere fending champion Cleveland Warriors coach Steve Kerr as Cavaliers on Monday in Oak- on Green so when it was dis- and the people. The support they came out and gave me, it was really nerve-wracking’ land to capture the crown. covered, Green was allowed to Last year, the Warriors also stay. led 3-1 but Green was banned AFP from the pivotal matchup after ‘Can’t fool me twice’ Kingston, Jamaica striking Cleveland star LeBron Such moments bring ques- James in the groin in game four. tions about Green’s mental The visiting Cavaliers won improvement, ones Green sain Bolt partied with game fi ve with Green watch- shrugged off earlier in the se- his devoted fans in an ing on TV from a luxury box in ries. emotional farewell at the baseball stadium beside the “You act like I’m just this the National Stadium arena, awaiting a celebration troubled guy who’s been in Uon Saturday as the world’s fast- that would never come. Cleve- a bunch of trouble and can’t est man ran his fi nal race on Ja- land won games six and seven control myself,” Green said. maican soil. to cap the greatest comeback “I’ve just been playing bas- Bolt wanted to go out in a blaze in NBA Finals history and de- ketball. And when you’ve got of glory as he won the 100 metre throne the Warriors. great teammates like I do who ‘Salute to a Legend’ race in front A mellower Green has allow me to play with my emo- of a raucous crowd of 30,000 learned the lessons from that tions and be emotional when on the same track where he frustration and while not above I’m talking to them, to use my launched his international ca- chatting to a referee, was whis- emotions to the better for us, reer at the world juniors in 2002. tled for fewer fl agrant fouls this it’s easy. The 30-year-old Bolt leaped season. “Not worrying about the of- out of the blocks and cruised to “I don’t really carry it with fi cials and all that. I think eve- victory in a time of 10.03, well me. I’m a fi rm believer in (stuff ) ryone talks to offi cials. I talk to below his world record time but happens,” Green said. “I car- them. But going over the edge good enough to beat a solid fi eld. ried the lessons that I learned isn’t going to win me a cham- “I don’t think I have ever been with me. It has put me in the pionship. I think I’m a pretty that nervous to run the 100 me- position I am today. I feel bet- smart guy and I learned my tres,” said Bolt, who is retiring ter than I’ve ever felt emotion- lesson. So I went over the edge in August following the World ally. Just having my emotions before – fool me once, you Championships. in place than I’ve ever felt. can’t fool me twice.” “Just the atmosphere and the “So it’s all things that hap- Green had 16 points and 14 people. The support they came pen bad aren’t that bad, when rebounds in a losing cause in out and gave me, it was really you take a step back and look game four, when play became nerve-wracking.” at them. It’s something that more physcial than it had been After the race the Bolt took a I learned from and will stick in the series. victory lap then returned to the with me for the rest of my life.” “We’ll bounce back,” Green track and the No. 5 lane where And having a game fi ve at said. “We never felt like we he kissed the fi nish line before home opens a chance at re- were out of the game. We con- fl ashing his signature lightning- demption and securing a crown tinued to push. We were right bolt pose for the fi nal time at with his work on the court. there. A couple of shots drop, home. “We have a golden oppor- maybe the game turns. We’ll “There is no words,” Bolt said. tunity going home on Monday be fi ne.” “From world juniors to now I have always been getting great support from Jamaica. “I never thought I would ever reach this height in track and fi eld. My only aim was to be a Usain Bolt of Jamaica celebrates after winning his final race in home country during the Racers Grand Prix at the national stadium in Kingston, 200 metre Olympic champion. Jamaica, on Saturday. (AFP) “I have done all I have done. Being a legend now is something it was going to be big but the sta- minute ceremony on the infi eld 100m at the London World him third in Blake’s heat. big. But I couldn’t have done it dium was jam-packed with peo- which was attended by his coach Championships but he still has a South African Wayde Van without the support of my par- ple supporting me I appreciate Glen Mills and Sebastian Coe, lot of work to do to get ready. Niekerk won the men’s 200m ents.” that,” he said. president of the International “My execution was bad and with a world-leading time of The nine-time Olympic gold “To see everybody turn out Association of Athletics Federa- my start was poor,” he said of 19.84 seconds. medallist Bolt did not run in shows that what I have done for tions. Saturday’s race. “It is my fi rst American Olympic gold medal the fastest 100 metre race of the the sport is a big deal to them.” race and I didn’t expect anything winner Allyson Felix captured evening, but his devoted fans Since this was his fi rst race of Mammoth contribution spectacular. the women’s 400 metres by fi n- didn’t care. 2017, Bolt said his biggest con- Coe thanked Bolt saying, “Our “I just wanted to come out ishing in a time of 50.52. He ran in front of a sea of green cern was just putting on a good words are modest but our thanks here and put on a show for the British track star Mo Farah and yellow clad Jamaican fans show. our mountainous. “His contri- crowd and thank them for the easily won the 3,000 metres who showed their pride by danc- The Jamaican speedster says bution has been mammoth. A support.” running away from the pack to ing, waving fl ags and blowing his farewell season is more about fi gure to all of us in his sport and In other events, Jamaica’s cross the fi nish line in a time vuvuzela horns while fi reworks saying thank you to his fans than I wish him the best of luck. Yohan Blake won the fi rst 100 of 7:41.20 while David Tar- lit the sky. trying to break his world records “There is nowhere else I would metre race of the evening as he bei squeezed by fellow Kenyan Bolt said the reception he re- of 9.58 seconds in the 100 me- rather be as president of IAAF clocked a 9.97 to hold off South and world record holder David ceived was larger and louder tres and 19.19 seconds in the 200 than in this stadium with you Africa’s Akani Simbine, who fi n- Rudisha at the line to win the Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors gestures to the than he anticipated. metres. tonight.” ished in 10 seconds fl at. men’s 800 metres in a time of crowd after a foul in the third quarter against in Game 4 of the “I never expected this. I knew Bolt was honoured during a 20 He said he plans to run the Bolt’s time would have placed 1:44.85. 2017 NBA Finals in Cleveland, Ohio. (Getty Images/AFP)

MLB Seager’s walk-off double does the job for Dodgers

By Andy McCullough ablaze by surrendering a game- Wood felt soreness in his chest. at-bat. Wood hit shortstop Zack Los Angeles Times tying three-run blast to catcher An examination showed infl am- Cozart with a fastball. Chris Devin Mesoraco. Wood was mation in the joint connecting Taylor leaped into the wall to charged with three runs across his sternum to his clavicle. Ini- rob Joey Votto, but Eugenio Sua- he baseball hung in the 51/3 innings. tially expected to miss one out- rez followed up a single. Rob- air and refused to come The pregame schedule di- ing, the team gave him another erts visited the mound as Wood down, heartening the verted the players from their week off after his body was slow prepared to face former Dodger Los Angeles Dodgers usual routine. At 4pm, the par- to respond to treatment. Scott Schebler. Twith his potential and teas- ticipants in the afternoon’s Old- By Saturday, Wood felt ca- He would be Wood’s last hit- ing Cincinnati Reds outfi elder Timer’s Day gathered for batting pable of competing. He retired ter, going down on a three-pitch Scooter Gennett with its avail- practice. The Dodgers mingled the fi rst six batters he faced. strikeout. ability. Gannett dove, only to with the former Dodgers – from He fell into some trouble in the The crowd showered Wood watch the baseball land beyond Josh Beckett and Nick Punto to third, when Gennett came to the with adulation as he left the dia- his grasp. It was a walk-off dou- Don Newcombe and Steve Sax. plate. Earlier in the week, Gen- mond. ble for Dodgers shortstop Corey As Dave Roberts chatted behind nett became the 17th player in Seager, a two-out game winner the cage, Joe Torre sidled by. major league history to homer Results in a 5-4 victory. “Leadoff hitter!” Torre said. four times in one game. Wood LA Dodgers 5 Cincinnati 4 Seager delivered his second Torre was not the only one who managed to keep him in the park Arizona 3 Milwaukee 2 double of the evening, driving wanted to see Roberts play. Cole – but Gennett still stroked a cur- Toronto 4 Seattle 2 home Yasiel Puig, who had used Roberts, the manager’s 16-year- veball off the right-fi eld wall. NY Yankees 16 Baltimore 3 his arm to maintain the dead- old son, was only a toddler when Wood nearly escaped, but Chicago Sox 5 Cleveland 3 lock an inning earlier. The walk- Roberts stole that series-altering former Dodger Jose Peraza Boston 11 Detroit 3 off allowed the team avoid the base against Torre’s Yankees in punched a two-out single through Oakland 7 Tampa Bay 2 misery of a bullpen blowup and the 2004 playoff s. Cole implored the left side of the infi eld. The NY Mets 8 Atlanta 1 extended a Dodgers (38-25) win- his dad to play. “I have a big Dodgers matched that with an RBI Kansas City 12 San Diego 6 ning streak to three games. league game to manage,” Roberts Los Angeles Dodgers Corey Seager hits a walk-off RBI single in the ninth inning of the game against the double by Utley in the fi fth. Houston 3 LA Angels 1 An orderly evening had im- said, chuckling, before acqui- Cincinnati Reds at Dodger Stadium. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Then came the sixth. Wood Pittsburgh 7 Miami 6 ploded in the sixth. Back from escing to his son’s request. Rob- had thrown 70 pitches. He had Minnesota 3 San Francisco 2 the disabled list, Alex Wood ex- erts led off the game by ground- in his sixth career start. Chase third-base line. Bellinger tried In Wood’s hands, the lead not appeared in a game since May Colorado 9 Chicago Cubs 1 tended his streak of scoreless ing out to Orel Hershisher, and Utley led off with a single. Co- to drop a bunt, but popped the looked safe. He won National 26. He often falters when facing St. Louis 7 Philadelphia 0 innings to 271/3 before allow- jogged back into the clubhouse. rey Seager ripped an RBI dou- ball foul. Bellinger reconvened League pitcher of the month in batters for a third time. Despite Tampa Bay 6 Oakland 5 ing a run in the third. He exited His hitters would provide ble. Adrian Gonzalez supplied for the 1-2 pitch. Wojciechowski May, striking out 41 batters in these factors, Roberts expressed (10 innings) with two runners aboard and two more productive at-bats. The a sacrifi ce fl y. With two outs, fl ipped a slider over the middle. 281/3 innings. his confi dence in Wood by send- NY Mets 6 Atlanta 1 out in the sixth – a smattering lineup battered rookie right- Bellinger stepped in. The Reds Bellinger sent the ball soaring After fi ve scoreless innings ing him back to the mound. Texas 6 Washington 3 of gasoline that Josh Fields set hander Asher Wojciechowski shifted their infi eld, vacating the beyond the right-fi eld fence. against the Cubs on May 26, The trouble started in the fi rst (11 innings) Gulf Times 6 Monday, June 12, 2017 SPORT

GOLF SPOTLIGHT South Africa’s Frittelli Champion Johnson claims debut tour title AFP Atzenbrugg, Austria

outh Africa’s Dylan Frittelli won his maiden European Tour title yesterday, a fi nal round of fi ve-under-par 67 allowing him to triumph by one shot at the Austrian Open. nominal favourite at Frittelli, 27, carded six birdies and one bogey to fi nish 12 Sunder par, one stroke clear of England’s David Horsey, Finland’s Mikko Korhonen and his fellow South African Jbe Kruger. Once a playing partner of Jordan Spieth while at college in the United States, Frittelli lost in a play-off in the China Open in April and now has a Tour victory to his name. He almost found himself in another play-off this time, but Kruger’s own fi ne round was tarnished by a bogey at the last, a 67 wide-open US Open seeing him fall one shot shy. “I’m really happy with the way the week went – super stoked to get my fi rst win on the European Tour – I think it’s been a long Erin Hills is likely to favour power hitters, but that hardly narrows the list of contenders time coming and I am glad to be inside the winner’s circle,” Frittelli told Europeantour.com. Reuters Sitting 17th in the Race to Dubai, the win boosts his chances of Washington qualifying for next month’s British Open at Royal Birkdale. “Hopefully I get into The Open with this performance and it should move me up the Race to Dubai and open up some more ustin Johnson is a luke- doors down the road,” he added. warm favourite for this He had started the day on seven-under, two shots behind over- week’s US Open, but night leader Felipe Aguilar. parity in the post Tiger The Chilean had led after each of the opening three rounds but WoodsD era and a new venue only fell away after carding fi ve bogeys in a three-over-par round of 75. add to the uncertainty over who He fi nished tied for 10th on six under par, while Frittelli bird- will lift the trophy next Sunday. ied three of the fi rst four holes and recovered from a wobble at the While now world number one start of the back nine to see out the victory. Johnson won in 2016 and then A birdie at 16 and then two pars to fi nish allowed him to hold world number one Jordan Spi- off Kruger. Horsey, who matched the course record with an eight- eth triumphed in 2015, it would under 64 on Friday, produced a fl awless fi nal round of 65, featur- hardly surprise if this year threw ing seven birdies, but fell just short. up a more unlikely champion at Erin Hills in Wisconsin. Leading final round scores Making a prediction even 276 - Dylan Frittelli (RSA) 70-71-68-67 more fraught with danger is that 277 - Jbe Kruger (RSA) 69-73-68-67, David Horsey 75-64-73-65, most of the favourites have at Mikko Korhonen (FIN) 71-73-66-67 least a question mark hovering 278 - Richard McEvoy 72-71-67-68 over them, while other players 279 - Johan Carlsson (SWE) 67-71-71-70 have claimed most of the recent 281 - Lucas Bjerregaard (DEN) 70-72-70-69, Sepp Straka (AUT) 69- victories on the PGA Tour. 70-70-72, Joost Luiten (NED) 73-72-70-66 Consider that American John- 282 - Felipe Aguilar (CHI) 65-70-72-75, Ricardo Gonzalez (ARG) 69- son, who missed the US Masters 72-72-69, Matt Wallace 71-73-69-69, Ashun Wu (CHN) 70-75-69-68, after hurting his back on tour- Nino Bertasio (ITA) 70-72-73-67 nament eve, failed to make the 283 - Craig Lee 73-72-68-70, Alexander Bjork (SWE) 69-74-68-72, halfway at the Memorial tourna- Simon Forsstroem (SWE) 70-74-70-69, Bernd Wiesberger (AUT) ment last week. 70-69-74-70, Graeme Storm 68-69-75-71 Or that world number two Rory McIlroy has not played in nearly a month, since report- Cabrera Bello chips in for share of St. Jude lead ing back problems at the Players Championship. Spain’s Rafa Cabrera Bello chipped in twice for birdies in a five- And the next two players in under-par 65 to grab a share of the lead at the Fedex St. Jude the rankings, Australian Jason Classic in Memphis on Saturday. Cabrera Bello topped the leader- Day and Japanese Hideki Mat- board alongside Stewart Cink and Ben Crane after the third round suyama, have been quiet of late, and the 33-year-old from Gran Canaria is now in the hunt for his which taken in combination is first USPGA Tour win. just about enough to make a “Obviously, those two chip-ins helped,” said Cabrera Bello, who professional gambler decide to has won a total of five tournaments in his career, including two throw a dart at the entry list to on the European Tour, after his round at TPC Southwind. fi nd a prospective winner. “The one on the third hole (from 48 feet) was tough and the one Erin Hills, at 7,800 yards and on the fourth (from 33 feet) was tricky. “I’ve been hitting the ball with four par-fi ves, is likely to well and trusting my putting. The diff erence (on the PGA Tour) is favour power hitters, but that that the courses are much diff erent on the weekend than what hardly narrows the list of pro- you play on Tuesday and Wednesday. It’s always changing.” spective winners in the year’s Cabrera Bello, Cink and Crane all stand at nine under 201 after second major championship. 54 holes. Cink is looking for his first win since the 2009 Open And while good putting never at Turnberry. The veteran had opened up a two-stroke lead on goes astray, look for a great ball- the front nine before three bogeys on the home stretch saw him striker to emerge on top. In this April 6, 2017, picture, Dustin Johnson (centre) of the United States talks to the media during the first round of the 2017 Masters Tournament finish with a 69. Five-time PGA Tour winner Crane meanwhile US Masters champion Sergio in Augusta, Georgia. (AFP) carded a blemish-free 68. Garcia could be tough to beat, One shot off the lead are Luke List and Chad Campbell, who both while Spieth seems to be back in be the same as ever at the US fired 66s to stay in a tie for fourth. A further shot back is Kevin form after missing the cut at the Open – eliminate single-hole Erin Hills an unlikely place for fi rst US Open in Wisconsin Chappell who shot a 68, with Matt Jones of Australia, who hit a Players Championship. disasters by avoiding unneces- 69. Chez Reavie, a co-leader through 36 holes, suff ered an error- Masters runner-up Justin sary risks, fi nd the fairway off The first US Open to be played The course has been given an likely off er the long hitters their strewn round which featured a double-bogey and a two more Rose drives the ball just about the tee and stay in emotional in the state of Wisconsin will be early thumbs-up by most who usual advantage, though miss a bogeys on the front nine. Reavie finished with a 72 to finish along- as well as anyone, as does Aus- control. held at a relatively new course have played it, though as with fairway and the fescue could ex- side Chappell and Jones on seven under. tralian Adam Scott, while South “Get your birdies when you as the US Golf Association any course, cheers can quickly act a big price. Fescue, a sturdy Elsewhere Saturday, defending champion Daniel Berger shot Africans Charl Schwartzel and can. Always try and stay posi- (USGA) takes its premier event turn to jeers if they deem the grass that can grow several feet a 66 to move to six under, three off the lead in a tie with David Louis Oosthuizen are always a tive, and never think you’re out to a new venue for the second set-up on tournament days high, is notorious for wrapping Hearn of Canada, Kim Whee of South Korea and former US Open threat. of it,” he said. time in three years. to be unfair. Stretching some around the hosel of a club and champion Retief Goosen of South Africa. The American threat, if not Those are hardly state secrets Erin Hills, located some 35 7,800 yards from the back tees, causing the ball to be pulled. Per- Five-time major winner Phil Mickelson, who has vowed to skip led by Johnson or Spieth, could but knowing them and having miles northwest of Milwaukee, it has a Scottish links-style look, haps the biggest question over next week’s US Open due to the high school graduation of his emerge from the likes of Rickie the discipline to abide by them spreads over 200 acres of a with long fescue rough, few the course set-up concerns the daughter, carded a bogey-double bogey finish for a 69 to be four Fowler or Kevin Kisner, while are two diff erent things. Pa- 650-acre property and though trees, and firm fairways. multiple tee boxes. Hole yardage adrift of the lead. Another major winner, 2011 Masters champion Garcia’s Spanish compatriot Jon tience, as much as shot execu- only 11 years old, it blends into The wide fairways and four par- will vary greatly from day to day, and joint second round leader Charl Schwartzel, of South Africa, Rahm has all the makings of a tion, will be key. Those who do the landscape as though it had fives — the first par-72 US Open but beyond that uncertainty is had a miserable day, shooting 74 to plummet down the field into champion. best at managing both will at been there for centuries. since Pebble Beach in 1992 — will the only certainty. a share of 13th. Day said his game plan would least have a chance.

CYCLING/ CRITERIUM DU DAUPHINE Fuglsang outshines Porte, Froome to win Dauphine

AFP standings, the Australian claim- to take it easy onto the Tour,” he Results and standings Bonneville, France ing second at 10sec with Martin said. “With Fabio we’ll form a Stage rounding out the podium by 1sec good couple for the Tour. We’ll 1. Jakob Fuglsang (DEN/AST) 3hr from Froome, the three-time share the leadership and we have 26min 20sec, 2. Dan Martin (IRL/ stana’s Danish rider Ja- Tour de France winner. a good team.” QST) at 12sec, 3. Louis Meintjes kob Fuglsang outshone “It’s amazing! I don’t know Team Sky sporting director (RSA/EAU) 27, 4. Emanuel Buch- defending champion what to say. Even with the jersey Nicolas Portal insisted Froome mann (GER/BOR) 44, 5. Fabio Chris Froome and Aus- I can’t believe it, I’ve been close to would have more to off er come Aru (ITA/AST) 1:01, 6. Romain tralianA Richie Porte to win the the yellow jersey many times in my the Tour de France after a tough Bardet (FRA/ALM) 1:02, 7. Richie fi nal stage of the Criterium du career,” Fuglsang said, dedicating week’s racing. Porte (AUS/BMC) 1:15, 8. Chris Dauphine and claim overall vic- the win to his pregnant wife. “It’s a diff erent Dauphine from Froome (GBR/SKY) 1:36, 9. Rafael tory yesterday. “We tried to keep our positions the last number of years,” Portal Valls (ESP/LOT) 1:41, 10. Alejan- Fuglsang, a silver medallist in on GC and it came down to a big said. dro Valverde (ESP/MOV) 3:30 the road race event at last year’s big fi ght for the overall victory. “We came here to try to win, and Selected: 11. Alberto Contador Rio Olympics, went into the stage “We planned it very well with we saw Richie was super strong, and (ESP/TRE) 4:10 in third place. But he managed to Fabio (Aru) attacking (with Ale- now we can see Fuglsang was clearly Overall overhaul his rivals on a gruelling jandro Valverde on the Col de la very strong too. 1. Jakob Fuglsang (DEN/Astana) mountain ride, 115km long over Colombiere) and everything went “These two riders were slightly 29hr 05min 44sec, 2. Richie three cols (Saisies, Aravis, Co- in our favour. better than us but the team rode Porte (AUS/BMC) at 10sec, 3. lombiere) before a fi nal climb to “We played really smart. fantastic every day.” Dan Martin (IRL/QST) 1:32, 4. the fi nish line at the Plateau de Froome had to pull after Fabio Portal added: “Froomey is Chris Froome (GBR/SKY) 1:33, 5. Solaison, high in the Alps. and ‘Valv’. I tried to keep cool all on the way up, step by step to Fabio Aru (ITA/AST) 1:37, 6. Ro- The 32-year-old Dane soloed day, and without pushing too the Tour. For sure he’s going to main Bardet (FRA/ALM) 2:04, 7. to the stage win, fi nishing 12sec much I went for the stage win and progress. He fi nished the race re- Emanuel Buchmann (GER/BOR) ahead of Ireland’s Dan Martin. I got it all.” ally well here, making some hard 2:32, 8. Louis Meintjes (RSA/ Crucially, overnight leader Porte The Dane said the victory was attacks and some long pulls. EAU) 3:12, 9. Alejandro Valverde was 1min 15sec off the pace and a warning shot at rival teams for “Obviously it didn’t work out (ESP/MOV) 4:08, 10. Rafael Valls Froome, who started the ride in the July 1-23 Tour de France. with the victory, but we’ve done (ESP/LOT) 4:40 second, a further 21sec adrift. “There’s still a long way to a really good job here. We’re all Selected Fuglsang’s victory meant he the Tour but I’m really happy looking forward to the Tour and 11. Alberto Contador (ESP/TRE) Denmark’s Jakob Diemer Fuglsang celebrates on the podium after winning the sixth stage of the 69th leapfrogged Porte in the overall with my condition now. I’ll have there’s more to come.” 5:20 Criterium du Dauphine cycling race between Villars-les-Dombes and La Motte-Servolex yesterday. (AFP) Gulf Times Monday, June 12, 2017 7 CRICKET

CHAMPIONS TROPHY Sri Lanka ponder changes for Pakistan ‘quarter-fi nal’ ‘We saw a little bit of the conditions. We had a couple of sessions here, and we are very much prepared for that’

Pakistan’s Hafeez relishes ‘unpredictable’ tag Mohamed Hafeez has no We saw a little bit of the like cornered tigers”, Pakistan problems with Pakistan being conditions. We had a couple of made it all the way to the final known as “unpredictable”, say- sessions here, and we are very where, with left-arm fast bowler ing he “loves” the tag that is so much prepared for that. But Ha- Wasim Akram in brilliant form, often applied to the team. feez, a veteran of 187 ODIs, told they beat England by 22 runs in The Pakistan all-rounder is set reporters in Cardiff yesterday: Melbourne. to feature in a virtual Cham- “To be honest, I’m always a It remains the only time Paki- pions Trophy quarter-final fan of that tag, that we’re an stan have won the World Cup against Sri Lanka when the two unpredictable team. and Hafeez said that was where sides meet for the concluding “As a team, we’re always very they picked up the “unpredict- Group B match in Cardiff aggressive. able” tag. today. “Yes, we had some of the days “If you see the history of Paki- Whichever team wins will which were not nice, and I think stan cricket from there till now, advance into the semi-finals of the first game was one of those we’re always unpredictable,” an event featuring the world’s where we all tried our level- he said. top eight one-day interna- best but things didn’t work “We have the talent, but still tional teams, with the losers for us,” the 36-year-old top- you never know when it comes. eliminated from the ‘mini World order batsman and off -spinner “That’s something the opposi- Cup’. added. tion always think about. They The cliche that you can never “And the next game, like it was never take us lightly.” be sure which Pakistan team a totally diff erent team eff ort. Hafeez believes the winner will turn up is one the current “As a team, we are always like takes all nature of Monday’s side have embraced at this that, and I love that tag always.” match will suit Pakistan. tournament. Pakistan’s unrivalled ability to “The situation in front of us is Their campaign started with go from the simply awful to very clear — we have to win the a miserable 124-run thrashing the sublime has long been a game, everything else is just by arch-rivals and title-holders feature of their play. irrelevant,” he said. India, which saw Pakistan ut- As far as Hafeez is concerned, This year has seen Hafeez terly outplayed in all aspects of the team’s reputation dates again contributing with ball as the game to the dismay of their back to Pakistan’s remarkable well as bat, having remodelled fans at a packed Edgbaston. 1992 World Cup campaign. his action after a period of But just three days later they They were bowled out for just suspension for an illegal went from zeroes to heroes 74 by England in a group match delivery. when they returned to the in Adelaide before rain spared “I was missing that part of Birmingham ground to beat Pakistan a defeat that would the game because that was South Africa, the world’s top- have stopped them getting to something (bowling) that I ranked ODI side by 19 runs on the semi-finals. really wanted to do whenever I Sri Lankan players during their practice session on the eve of their Champions Trophy match against Pakistan. (Reuters) Duckworth/Lewis. As it was, under the inspir- played cricket,” he explained. Once again there was much ing captaincy of legendary “It’s more enjoyable for myself AFP Tharanga was suspended by porters in Cardiff yesterday. placency in this kind of tourna- talk of the “unpredictable all-rounder Imran Khan, who and also it’s working for the Cardiff , United Kingdom the International cricket Coun- “We had to bring him into ment.” Pakistan”. promised his team would “fight team. That is always great.” cil for presiding over a slow the squad because we are left It was Pakistan’s attack, a over-rate during Sri Lanka’s with only seven batters at the well-balanced mix of spin and ri Lanka replacement opening defeat by South Africa – moment,” added the fi t-again speed, that put them in a posi- batsman Dhananjaya de a match regular captain Angelo all-rounder, who was there at tion to beat South Africa and Silva could fi nd himself Mathews missed due to a calf the fi nish against India with 52 skipper Sarfraz Ahmed will look pitched straight into a problem. not out. “He has a good chance to his bowlers to repeat that per- winner-takes-allS Champions Kapugedera then suff ered a of playing, but we still haven’t formance against Sri Lanka. Trophy match against Pakistan knee injury and was replaced by decided.” “We took wickets,” he said. in Cardiff today. Danushka Gunathilaka for Sri “If you take wickets, every good Whichever team triumphs in Lanka’s surprise win over India ‘Dangerous’ Pakistan team feels under pressure.” the Welsh capital will join title- at the Oval, only for Perera to Today’s match had the look of Meanwhile, all-rounder Mo- holders India as one of the two have to go off mid-innings with a ‘dead rubber’ after both sides hamed Hafeez said the ‘win or Group B qualifi ers for the semi- a hamstring injury having batted were beaten fi rst up, with Paki- go home’ nature of the match fi nals of a tournament featuring well for his 47. stan suff ering a 124-run thrash- would help Pakistan maintain the world’s top eight one-day Now Sri Lanka will hope ing by arch-rivals India. their “crystal clear” focus in international teams. De Silva can follow the lead of But they too bounced back, what will be the only Group B Sri Lanka are having to shore opening batsman Gunathilaka, defeating top-ranked South Af- match at Cardiff . up their top order after injuries who made an impressive 76 in rica. Now Pakistan are just one “We are ready,” Hafeez in- saw both Chamara Kapugedera Sri Lanka’s surprisingly com- game away from a semi-fi nal sisted. We know this is a game and Kusal Perera ruled out of fortable seven-wicket win on with either tournament hosts we all want to win and want to go the remainder of the Champions Thursday. England or Bangladesh and a through to the semis.” Trophy, while vice-captain Upul “It’s a shame to lose Kusal, wary Mathews said: “We all He added: “We saw a little bit Tharanga, an experienced bats- he batted extremely well – but know they’re a very dangerous of the conditions. We had a cou- man, is completing a two-game Dhananjaya de Silva is also a very team. ple of sessions here, and we are ban. good player,” Mathews told re- “There’s no room for com- very much prepared for that.”

SPOTLIGHT Bangladesh lower expectations aft er reaching semi-fi nals

England’s resounding victory be with us as they were in our Morgan backs Stokes to set new marks over Australia on Saturday desperate times and good enabled Bangladesh to book times.” an unexpected spot in Cham- All four teams in Group AFP “It managed to work, we did it with a combination of this result pions Trophy semi-finals but B — India, South Africa, Sri Birmingham, United Kingdom in our own way.” and Bangladesh’s win over New the South Asians are playing Lanka and Pakistan — can He added: “So I did what I do, Zealand on Friday taking the Ti- down expectations of going still advance going into their and obviously Ben’s very natu- gers into the last four alongside all the way to claim a maiden final round of pool matches oin Morgan said the po- rally aggressive and fi nds attack- England. major title. but Bangladesh have no tential of Ben Stokes is ing quite easy.” Aaron Finch (68) and Smith The hosts had already quali- preference over who they “through the roof” after (56) both got out when well set, fied before the Edgbaston wish to face at Edgbaston on having the best view in ‘Smarts’ with Travis Head’s unbeaten 71 encounter but relished the Thursday. theE house as the all-rounder’s Turning to fellow left-hand- insuffi cient to get Australia to a chance to put one over their “It can be any team and stunning century helped Eng- ed batsman Stokes, now one of par score of 300. bitterest rivals and eased to we are not thinking about land knock Australia out of the the hottest properties in world Smith denied a lack of time in a 40-run win in the rain- that. Our focus for the next Champions Trophy. cricket after an impressive debut the middle had been responsible aff ected Group A finale to few days will be to prepare England, already through to season in the Twenty20 Indian for Australia’s comprehensive end Australia’s interest in the ourselves for the next game,” the semi-fi nals of a tournament Premier League, Morgan said: defeat. competition. Mortaza added. featuring the world’s top eight “His potential is through the “You say that we only had That loss enabled Bangla- Number six Mahmudullah one-day international sides, roof. He’s always looking to in- one hit, but that should be desh, who had stunned New and all-rounder Shakib Al were reeling at 35 for three chas- fl uence the game — bat, ball, or good enough for the players Zealand the previous day, to Hasan made the highest ing a target of 278 at Edgbaston even in the fi eld. that we’ve got on our team,” he advance at their expense and partnership for any wicket in on Saturday. “A lot of guys with potential insisted. the Tigers are keeping their an ODI for the side when they But in a match their arch- like that, when things aren’t go- “I thought we let ourselves feet firmly planted on the put on 224 to take the match rivals had to win to join them in ing (their) way, back into a cor- down a little bit,” added Smith, ground after reaching the last away from New Zealand but the last four, Stokes, with an ODI ner — but that’s not Ben.” whose time in England has been four of a global tournament Bangladesh are resisting the best 102 not out, and England Australia captain Steve Smith, overshadowed by an increasingly for the first time. temptation to tinker with captain Morgan (87) put on 159 who skippered Stokes at IPL bitter contract dispute between “It’s a big thing for our cricket. their lineup. for the fourth wicket at better franchise Rising Pune Super- Cricket Australia and their play- It is an opportunity for us but “We have given him (Mah- than a run-a-ball. giant, added: “I always thought ers. I want to request everybody mudullah) a role around six By the time a second rain in- he was a good player. He’s an “We got ourselves into a pret- not to think we will go all months ago, which is to bat at terruption saw the game called incredibly strong lad and hits ty good position early with the the way to win the title,” number six. He has respond- off , England were 240 for four off the ball very hard. “I think bat. But someone in the top four Bangladesh captain Mashrafe ed well batting there,” batting 40.2 overs and won by 40 runs he’s probably developed some probably needed to go on and Mortaza told reporters at the coach Thilan Samaraweera under the Duckworth-Lewis- smarts... He’s certainly a quality make a hundred.” team hotel in Cardiff . said. “He was actually batting Stern method. player, and he’s in exceptional Meanwhile Smith lamented “It’s a tournament of the top further up when I took the A previous rain break gave form at the moment.” the “freebies” his bowlers has eight teams and more chal- job in 2015 but after that, the Morgan and Stokes time to as- For Australia, this result dished out to Morgan and Stokes lenging than the World Cup. coaching staff thought about sess their approach after a meant both they and New Zea- during a “momentum shift” af- So, to be in the semi-final getting him ready for the top-order collapse threatened England’s Ben Stokes celebrates completing his century against Australia in land, the team they beat in 2015 ter the initial rain break. is itself an achievement for 2019 World Cup with the role to undo England’s earlier good the Champions Trophy match at Edgbaston on Saturday. (AFP) ODI World Cup fi nal, exited the “When you’re playing in a big us. It is also a reward for our at six. work in restricting Australia to Champions Trophy without tournament for your country, continued eff ort towards “He is doing well there, finish- 277 for nine, with fast bowler Morgan hit boundaries off the “We felt that the positive way winning a game. you need to step up and get the improving our game,” he ing the game for the team re- Mark Wood taking an ODI best fi rst two balls he faced from Aus- was the best way,” Morgan told Smith’s men came into Sat- job done. added. “I think everyone has cently, in (the recent tri-series four for 33 and leg-spinner Adil tralia spearhead Mitchell Starc, reporters of the chat he’d had urday’s match having suff ered “We just didn’t turn up the contributed to what we are in) Ireland and against New Rashid four for 41. part of a sequence of fi ve fours in with Stokes shortly before the frustrating no result washouts in way I would have liked after the today. The whole nation will Zealand on Friday.” When the match resumed, 11 balls match got underway again. their previous Group A fi xtures, (rain) break.”

Monday, June 12, 2017 GULF TIMES SPORT

TOP OF THE LINE Al Bayt Stadium achieves sustainability milestone with tent-inspired design

l Bayt Stadium – Al Khor City low energy usage as the tent-like de- the upper tier will be removed and the has been commended for its sign will minimise the amount of en- capacity of the stadium will be reduced expression of local heritage ergy required to keep football fans and to 32,000. and culture, scoring three out players cool,” Supreme Committee for Surrounding the stadium, a new pre- ofA three in the Global Sustainability As- Delivery & Legacy (SC) Sustainability cinct will serve the wider Al Khor com- sessment System (GSAS) from the Gulf & Environmental manager Bodour al- munity. In addition to retail space and Organisation for Research & Develop- Meer said. restaurants, the precinct will include ment (GORD). Meanwhile, GORD founding chair- landscaped paths for residents to use It is the fi rst stadium to receive this man Dr Yousef al-Horr, said, “The as horse-riding, cycling and jogging score for its contribution to heritage stadium shows a creative union of tra- tracks, making the stadium complex an and cultural identity. ditional style with modern concepts, integral part of local life. The design of Al Bayt Stadium, which giving a fl avour of both Qatar’s past and GSAS is a green building certifi ca- emulates a traditional Qatari tent, was future. The theme of the Arabian tent is tion system developed for Gulf Coop- presented to an expert heritage panel as a true refl ection of Qatari culture, both eration Council countries. Through its part of the GSAS sustainability certifi - aesthetically and symbolically.” commitment to sustainable stadium cation process. The stadium’s design is an entirely construction, the SC is working to- “The unique design of Al Bayt Stadi- Qatari concept, refl ecting the country’s wards GSAS certifi cations, which are um shows how we’re using inspiration proud history and culture. The 60,000- intended to evaluate the sustainability from the past to deliver a green future. seat arena has a modular design, which of newly constructed or majorly reno- The very concept of this distinctive includes an upper tier of removable vated buildings, districts and infra- design is centred on sustainability and seats. After the 2022 FIFA World Cup, structures. (SC.qa)

CRICKET / CHAMPIONS TROPHY 2018 WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS China, Qatar in India stroll into crucial ties, as Iran semi-fi nals with look to Russia rout of South Africa Dhawan and Kohli take defending champions past the 192-run target in 38 overs

Reuters Kohli remained in total control, how- London ever, and Yuvraj Singh hoisted JP Duminy over mid-wicket for a huge six to com- plete the most comfortable of wins for his ndia crushed South Africa by eight team. wickets yesterday to reach the “It’s not an ideal way to fi nish the tour- Champions Trophy semi-fi nals and nament,” De Villiers said. “It’s disap- knock the world’s top-ranked team pointing, but credit to them. They put a Iout of the tournament. lot of pressure on us. South Africa crumbled from 116 for one “We got something nice going until the to 191 all out in good batting conditions at run-outs which cost us highly today. We The Oval before Shikhar Dhawan (78) and just came unstuck against a better team.” Virat Kohli (76 not out) shared a fl uent partnership of 128 to lead India to victory SCORECARD Qatar coach Jorge Fossati speaks to players during a training session. with 12 overs to spare. SOUTH AFRICA The defending champions followed Q. De Kock b Jadeja 53 Reuters to give up now, no matter what hosts England and Bangladesh into the H. Amla c Dhoni b Ashwin 35 Hong Kong we have to take down Syria.” last four and they will be joined by the F. du Plessis b Pandya 36 The Syrians, who have defi ed winners of Monday’s fi nal Group B game AB De Villiers run out (Pandya) 16 the odds to remain in contention between Sri Lanka and Pakistan. D. Miller run out (Bumrah) 1 he slim World Cup qual- for a place in Russia and have “Our bowlers bowled really well and JP Duminy not out 20 ifi cation hopes of both eight points from seven games, the fi elders backed it up. It was a complete C. Morris c Kumar b Bumrah 4 China and Qatar could won the previous match between performance in the fi eld — we grabbed A. Phehlukwayo lbw b Bumrah 4 fi nally end this week the teams prior to Lippi’s arrival the chances that came our way,” captain whileT Iran could become the fi rst as coach in November. K. Rabada c Dhoni b Kumar 5 Kohli said at the presentation ceremony. M. Morkel c Kohli b Kumar 0 Asian nation to book their place China sit on fi ve points and re- “The guys really stepped up with their I. Tahir run out (Kohli) 1 in next year’s fi nals in Russia. tain a mathematical possibility of intensity.” Extras (6lb, 10w) 16 Carlos Queiroz’s team take taking second place in the group South Africa started cautiously after Total (all out, 44.3 overs) 191 on Uzbekistan in Tehran today from South Korea, but Lippi and being sent in to bat as Hashim Amla and Fall of wickets: 1-76 (Amla), 2-116 (De evening knowing a win over the his team need Uli Stielke’s side Quinton de Kock added 76 for the fi rst Kock), 3-140 (De Villiers), 4-142 (Miller), Central Asian nation will ensure to slip up in Doha when they take wicket without undue alarm. 5-157 (Du Plessis), 6-167 (Morris), 7-178 the Iranians qualify for the World on a Qatar team who also need to Amla raised the tempo with a six over (Phehlukwayo), 8-184 (Rabada), 9-184 Cup for the second time in a row, win. mid-wicket but, on 35, he tried to cut (Morkel) the fi rst time the country will The Qataris, who will host the spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and nicked India’s Shikhar Dhawan (right) and Virat Kohli take a run during the ICC Champions Bowling: Kumar 7.3-0-23-2 (2w), Bumrah have secured a place at back-to- 2022 fi nals, have just four points a sharp catch to wicketkeeper Mahendra Trophy match against South Africa at The Oval in London yesterday. (AFP) 8-0-28-2 (2w), Ashwin 9-0-43-1 (3w), Pan- back tournaments. and cannot fi nish in one of the Singh Dhoni. dya 10-0-52-1 (3w), Jadeja 10-0-39-1 The Iranians lead Group A top two spots that guarantee an South Africa were 94 for one after 20 cumstances with both batsmen stranded India began their reply positively and by four points from South Ko- automatic berth in Russia. They overs and De Kock reached a tidy half- at the same end to leave South Africa both openers had struck sixes before Rohit INDIA rea with the Uzbeks in third, a can, however, climb up to third, century off 68 balls before he was de- struggling at 142 for four. Sharma drove loosely at Morkel and was R. Sharma c De Kock b Morkel 12 further point adrift of Iran with which secures a place in a series ceived by spinner Ravindra Jadeja and Their hopes of a substantial total caught by wicketkeeper De Kock for 12. S. Dhawan c Du Plessis b Tahir 78 three games remaining. of playoff s. bowled for 53. rested on the shoulders of Faf du Plessis Kohli joined Dhawan and after surviv- V. Kohli not out 76 The Chinese sit in fi fth and In Group B, Japan can put day- but his scratchy knock of 36 ended when ing hostile spells from Morkel and Ra- Y. Singh not out 23 take on fourth-placed Syria in light between themselves and SELF-DESTRUCT he dragged a ball from medium-pacer bada the pair started to play with more Extras (2lb, 1w, 1nb) 4 the Malaysian city of Malacca second placed Saudi Arabia with South Africa then pressed the self-de- Hardik Pandya on to his stumps. freedom. Total (2 wkts, 38 overs) 193 tomorrow with coach Marcello victory over already eliminated struct button with two run-outs in quick Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Ka- Dhawan crunched Morris over mid-on Fall of wickets: 1-23 (Sharma), 2-151 Lippi knowing his side must Iraq in Tehran tomorrow. succession. giso Rabada and Morne Morkel soon joined for his eighth four to reach his 50 and the (Dhawan) win to retain any possibility of Japan currently sit level on 16 Captain AB de Villiers, on 16, perished him back in the pavilion and the innings left-hander played some brutal strokes Bowling: Rabada 9-2-34-0, Morkel 7-1-38-1 qualifi cation for the nation’s fi rst points with the Saudis and Aus- trying to pinch a quick single and David petered out in the 45th over when Imran before he skied Tahir to Du Plessis at (1nb), Phehlukwayo 5-0-25-0, Morris 8-0- World Cup since 2002. tralia, who defeated the Bert van Miller (one) was dismissed in farcical cir- Tahir became the third run-out victim. long-off . 40-0 (1w), Tahir 6-0-37-1, Duminy 3-0-17-0 “It is totally within our ca- Marwijk-coached Saudis 3-2 in pabilities to defeat Syria,” said Adelaide on Thursday evening. Lippi after seeing his side beat Meanwhile, the United Arab AZF RAMADAN SPORTS FESTIVAL the Philippines 8-1 in a friendly Emirates, under new coach in Guangzhou on Wednesday Edgardo Bauza from Argentina, evening. must win in Bangkok against “If we lose to Syria both at Thailand to keep their hopes Bright Stars shine in Ramadan indoor hockey event home and away, then we deserve alive of a fi rst World Cup appear- to be eliminated. If we don’t want ance since 1990. By Sports Reporter Doha Qatar to host FINA/airweave en’s futsal and Qatar’s fi rst- ever Ramadan indoor hockey Swimming World Cup tournaments, organised as part of Aspire Zone Founda- Doha is preparing to host the Mtion’s (AZF) Ramadan Sports Festival, fourth round of FINA/airweave recently concluded. Swimming World Cup 2017 Both the tournaments took place at the from September 22-23, 2017, at world-class pitches of Aspire Dome, the Hamad Aquatics Centre. largest multi-purpose dome of its kind The Qatar Swimming Associa- in the world. The awards were presented tion has started its technical by AZF’s Events manager Abdullah Aman and administrative arrange- al-Khater, and PR and Communication ments to host the event here director Nasser Abdullah al-Hajri. in Doha. Amidst great enthusiasm from specta- Doha tour will bring together tors, Team Bright Stars emerged as win- the best of swimmers from ners of the indoor hockey tournament af- both international and regional ter an outstanding showcase of skill in the levels. Hungary’s Katinka Hosszu has fi nal, which ended in a 10-3 win against Hungarian swimmer Katinka won 13 medals in Doha. runners-up Doha Club. ending the game with a fi nal score of 5-4. who represented Egypt in a number of in- opportunity to play their favourite sport Hosszu has always stolen Meanwhile on the adjacent pitch, AZF The tournament generated positive ternational tournaments, was among the among family and friends who came to the show in Doha, winning 13 als in 2016, in addition to his concluded the men’s futsal tournament remarks from spectators and partici- participants. support. The tournament also comes medals, including 9 gold and tally in 2015 where he claimed for employees. Aspire Academy’s Team pants. Some said they hope to see more Qatar Hockey Federation technical di- shortly after the Qatari national team 4 silver. 4 gold medals. TID grabbed this year’s trophy after se- hockey sporting events for all community rector Maggid Abu-Talib praised Aspire won third place and secured their fi rst- Also, South African swimmer The event is expected to see curing a 6-2 win against Team Logistics. members, including women and juniors, Zone for including the indoor hockey on ever hockey medal at the Indoor Asia Cup Chad Le Clos too has left his other prominent names and Batfootball came in third after winning throughout the year. Former Egyptian this year’s RSF agenda. 2017, the biggest indoor hockey tourna- mark by clinching 3 gold med- Olympic champions. the penalty shootouts against Aspetar, hockey player Abdo Mustafa Mahmoud, “The RSF provided hockey fans with an ment to be hosted by Qatar,” he said.