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Thursday, April 9, 2020 GOLF Sha’ban 16, 1441 AH Tiger enjoys Masters GULF TIMES champions dinner ‘quarantine style’ SPORT Page 2

FOCUS England’s Stokes is named leading cricketer in the world Stokes feted for heroics during the World Cup final; Australia’s Ellyse Perry is the leading female cricketer in the world

By Ali Martin

isden has named as its leading cricketer in Wthe world and urged the government to ensure that at the next global event in the UK all England matches are broadcast on free-to-air television – not only the final. The 157th Almanack lands to- day in what should have been a precursor to the opening deliver- ies of the this Easter Sunday. However the sport it charts sits in stasis and so this is solely a blast of primrose sunshine from 2019. Wisden’s last 10 ‘Leading Cricketer in the World’ 2010: (India) 2011: (Sri Lanka) 2012: Michael Clarke (Australia) 2013: (South Africa) 2014: Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) 2015: (New Zealand) 2016: (India) 2017: Virat Kohli (India) 2018: Virat Kohli (India) 2019: BEN STOKES In this July 14, 2019, picture, England’s Ben Stokes reacts after running (ENGLAND) 3 in the superover of the ICC final against New Zealand at Lord’s in London, United Kingdom. (Reuters) Stokes is duly feted for the he- roics witnessed during the World sport on the map. But others Archer is joined here by three mer – while another all-rounder, watches TV any more sounded cricket. The question is asked as why couldn’t he bowl at 95mph Cup final at Lord’s and the Head- have kept it there: Hobbs, Hut- Australian cricketers in Pat of West Indies, is odder than ever. When the UK to whether this was present amid on demand? It was the sort of in- ingley heist that joined the pan- ton, Compton, Botham, Flintoff, Cummins, Marnus Labuschagne the top cricketer. next hosts the World Cup, the the narrative of Archer’s year. quisition the injury-prone Mark theon of Ashes centuries. He is Pietersen and now Stokes. Of and Ellyse Perry, who were all The editor’s notes are par- government must insist that Booth writes: “[ Wood has never had to face.” the second England player to win the three modern all-rounders, instrumental in helping their ticularly forthright on the les- England’s games can be watched was] regarded in some quarters ’s description of him- this award in its 17-year history Stokes can be the greatest.” teams to retain the men’s and son from Sky Sports sharing the by the man and woman on the as an interloper, until he helped self as a sometime scapegoat for after – even if Wisden’s five cricketers of the women’s Ashes on British soil. World Cup final with Channel 4, street, not just those who can af- win a World Cup, when he be- the Test team, and ’s ’s epochal breaking of year, a slice of prestige that dates , the South Afri- and England becoming the na- ford the subscription.” came a national hero. Then, as sometime strained relationship the stumps at Lord’s adorns Wis- back to 1889, can only be won can who spun Essex to their sec- tion’s team again. Booth writes: As well as giving Eoin Mor- soon as his pace dropped, or he with Yorkshire, are cited as fur- den’s cover. once in a playing career and as a ond Championship title in three “The [England and Wales Cricket gan a platform to explain how struggled on heartless pitches ther possible examples, along with Writing in his notes the Wis- England’s Jofra Archer is years, joins them. Board] calculated that almost a multiculturalism inspired his in New Zealand with the Kooka- tropes used during the playing den editor, Lawrence Booth, the sole World Cup winner to be Perry is also named the lead- third of the 15.4 million who at victorious team, and a defence burra [ball], his motivation was days of Usman Afzaal, , says: “Every so often, an England included after what is hailed as ing female cricketer in the world some point tuned in to Chan- of five-day after questioned. Devon Malcolm and Phillip De- cricketer joins the national con- “an unprecedented impact in his – like Stokes this is for perform- nel 4’s coverage were watching the suggestion it be cut to four, “Out came the stereotypes: Freitas. “In isolation, these labels versation. First among equals is first summer as an international ances across the entire calendar cricket for the first time. Wisden also raises the subject he was too cold; he was too laid- might be unremarkable; together, WG Grace, because he put the cricketer”. year, not only the English sum- “The argument that no one of unconscious bias in English back; he was a natural athlete, so they grow ugly,” Booth states.

FOOTBALL Italian Olympic 800m Mourinho admits error in coaching amid virus crisis finalist Sabia dies from Covid-19 By David Hytner A witness has told the follow government advice in The Guardian Guardian he saw Ndombe- order to support our heroes in Reuters le, Sánchez and Sessegnon the NHS and save lives.” Rome, Italy walking off after they had The Portuguese is under- ose Mourinho has ac- finished their workouts and stood to be adamant that he cepted he was wrong they were 20 metres apart. adhered to physical distanc- wice Olympic 800 metres finalist Donato to oversee a makeshift The players live locally. The ing when with Ndombele and Sabia has died from Covid-19 at the age of 56, training session with witness also said he saw Juan two other unidentified men Tthe Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) said yes- J terday. CONI said in a statement that Sabia had been Tanguy Ndombele in north Foyth “on his own about a on the common, even if that London on Tuesday. mile down the road” and rather missed the point about in the intensive care unit of the San Carlo hospital on The Tottenham man- Serge Aurier “about a mile his being there with them in Potenza, in the southern Italian region of Basilicata, ager was pictured on Hadley after that”. There is no in- the first place. for “a few days.” Common with Ndombele – dication Foyth and Aurier Mourinho has publicly crit- Sabia finished fifth in the 800 metres at Los Angeles in breach of the government breached the guidelines. icised Ndombele since he took in 1984 and seventh in Seoul four years later. He won regulations that permit peo- Spurs were moved to re- over last November, strug- the gold medal in the same event at the European ple to exercise outdoors dur- mind their players to respect gling to hide his frustration Indoor Championships in 1984. ing the coronavirus pandemic physical distancing when at the poor fitness and erratic According to CONI, he is the first Olympic finalist in only with members of their exercising outdoors and performances of the club’s the world to die from the virus. household. Mourinho issued a statement record signing. But everybody The Italian athletics federation (FIDAL), which Elsewhere on the common yesterday. “I accept that my at Spurs has seen Ndombe- described him as “an extraordinarily talented athlete two other Spurs players – actions were not in line with le’s quality in training and it but, above all, a gentle person”, said that Sabia’s Davinson Sánchez and Ryan government protocol and we has been noted that Mour- father had also died from Covid-19 a few days earlier. Sessegnon – were pictured must only have contact with inho would have taken such “It’s a tragedy within a tragedy,” said FIDAL president running together, failing to members of our own house- a strong line with the player In this February 5, 2020, picture, Tottenham Hotspur manager Jose Mourinho (right) Alfio Giomi in a statement. “Donato was a person respect the two-metre phys- hold,” the manager said. “It is only because he cares about substitutes Tanguy Ndombele during the FA Cup match against Southampton in London, who you couldn’t not love.” ical-distancing requirement. vital we all play our part and drawing the best from him. United Kingdom. (Reuters) Gulf Times 2 Thursday, April 9, 2020 SPORT

F1 Pandemic forces postponement of Canadian GP Reuteres all of our energies be put together to He also extended a shutdown of to wait for the chance to race at my Montreal overcome Covid-19. We will welcome non-essential businesses for another home F1 event,” said Latifi on his you with open arms at Circuit Gilles- three weeks to May 4. website. Villeneuve as soon as it is safe to do Formula One chairman Chase “Since I’ve been competing, my he June 14 Canadian Grand so,” said Canadian Grand Prix CEO Carey said Formula One supported ambition has been to represent my Prix in Montreal joined a Francois Dumontier. the “necessary decision to ensure the country at the highest level. And I’ve growing list of Formula One The race is promoted by Octane safety of fans and F1 community. been looking forward to June’s race in Traces postponed due to the Racing Group and organisers said the “We always look forward to travel- Montreal ever since I was announced new coronavirus pandemic on Tues- decision to postpone, after regular ling to the incredible city of Montreal as a driver with Williams. day, with the 2020 season yet to get discussions with city authorities and and while we will all have to wait a bit “But as action to control the spread on the starting grid. Formula One, was not taken lightly. longer, we will put on a great show of the virus stepped up, and other The race is the ninth to be affected “We have heard the directives is- when we arrive later this year,” he Montreal festivals were delayed or by the virus, with the March 15 sea- sued by public health officials and as added. cancelled, today’s news was inevita- son-opening Australian Grand Prix a direct result of the Covid-19 pan- Organisers said tickets would re- ble, I guess.” cancelled along with May’s showcase demic are following the expert guid- main valid and spectators will be in- Formula One now has to try to re- Monaco Grand Prix. ance provided by the authorities,” formed of their options when a new schedule races in Bahrain, Vietnam, Commercial rights holder Liberty added the organisers. date was decided. China, Azerbaijan, the Netherlands Media hopes to get the championship Almost half the Covid-19 cases in Canada will have two drivers this and Spain as well as Canada with started in the European summer with Canada are in the province of Que- season with Nicholas Latifi a rookie France, Austria and Britain looking a reduced and greatly rearranged bec, of which Montreal is the largest at Williams while Lance Stroll con- likely to join the list. schedule of between 15 and 18 races city, where premier Francois Legault tinues at Racing Point, a team owned The British Grand Prix at Silver- that could run into the New Year. said on Sunday he hoped to see new by his father Lawrence. stone has set an April deadline to de- Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel passes the chequered flag to win the Canadian Grand Prix at “At the moment it is crucial that diagnoses peak in a of weeks. “Naturally, I’m sad that I’ll have cide whether it can go ahead. the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montreal, Canada, on June 10, 2018. (Reuters)

GOLF SPOTLIGHT Lahiri seeks to get back to par during Tiger enjoys Masters virus shutdown

AFP New Delhi

he coronavirus shut- champions dinner down has given former Asian number one TAnirban Lahiri the opportunity to go back to the drawing board in a bid to es- cape a form slump. Lahiri’s last top-10 was at the Mayakoba Golf Classic in ‘quarantine style’ November 2018, and he need- ed to regain his PGA Tour card through the Tour Finals last ‘Masters Champions Dinner quarantine style. Nothing better than being with family’ season after finishing 178th on the points list. Former Asian number one AFP The 32-year-old Indian flew Anirban Lahiri. Miami back from the United States last month to work on his reer-high ranking of 33 in 2015, game with coach Vijay Divecha but has since dropped to 497. eigning Masters cham- in Ahmedabad before the pan- Before the PGA Tour was pion Tiger Woods had demic forced the country to halted, he had made five cuts a relaxed dinner with shut down. from 12 starts with a best fin- Rloved ones on Tuesday “I was already at a stage ish of joint 44th. instead of the Masters Champi- of re-assessing my goals and “I do miss playing golf but I ons Dinner he was once sched- processes even before this don’t miss it that much,” said uled to host Tuesday at Augusta break,” Lahiri, who is based in Lahiri. National. Florida, was quoted as saying “With this break, I’m just The Masters has been post- in a PGA Tour release. keeping myself occupied with poned to November by the coro- “My golf has been poor to a little bit of cooking, yoga and navirus pandemic, with Woods, say the least and it was a mat- some light weights training.” a 15-time major winner and five- ter of going back to the draw- Now seeing out the shut- time Masters champion, among ing board. Spending 10 days down in Hyderabad with his those staying home to try and with my coach gave me a good parents, wife and daughter, slow the spread of the deadly vi- sense on what I need to do to Lahiri said: “It’s given me more rus. get to where I want to be.” perspective outside of golf. It’s So instead of hosting past Lahiri, who played for the nice to hit the pause button Masters winners at Augusta Na- International team in two and reflect on things which we tional, Woods had a meal at his Presidents Cups, reached a ca- wouldn’t normally do.” South Florida home and tweet- ed a photo of himself with his “guests” – girlfriend Erica Her- man, his daughter Sam and his Fleetwood’s caddy raises funds son Charlie. for fellow bagmen “Masters Champions Dinner quarantine style. Nothing better Tiger Woods and family celebrate his 2019 Masters win at home in Florida on Tuesday. (Twitter/@TigerWoods) Tommy Fleetwood’s caddy tickets at 10 pounds each than being with family,” Woods Ian Finnis has raised 10,000 with all proceeds going to tweeted. first Masters and major win, to pounds ($12,306) to help his benefit caddies. The prizes Woods was wearing his Mas- wash down his menu selection of Immelman says Masters in November presents new challenge fellow European Tour bag- included flags from Europe’s ters green jacket with a red shirt, cheeseburgers. men whose earnings have Ryder Cup team, a hat his typical final-round shirt, and “I’m debating whether or not Trevor Immelman may not be from an agronomy standpoint,” at Augusta National this week. taken a hit due to golf’s sus- autographed by Fleetwood the Masters champion’s trophy, to have milkshakes as deserts putting the finishing touches on said Immelman. “For me over the last 10 or 11 pension amid the Covid-19 and tournament caddie bibs. a replica of the course’s famed because that was one of the most his Masters preparations this “But playing in November, which years to have been able to be a pandemic. Four hours after launching clubhouse, on the table in front great memories – to see Gene week but the former champion I have done a number of times, part of that group in that room The Tour has either post- the drive he tweeted again of him. Sarazen and Sam Snead having already has a good understand- the scoring won’t quite be as low with players that quite frankly poned or cancelled events saying it had already met Food was only seen at the milkshakes that night in ’98.” ing of what to expect should as it has been the last few years.” I’ve idolised and been my heroes scheduled between March its target. “Please no more edges of the photo but it looked With the Masters resched- the postponed tournament be According to the 2008 Masters ever since I started playing this and May. The British Open donations,” he wrote. “Unreal to be the same meal Woods said uled for November 12-15, Woods contested in November. champion, lower temperatures game as a five-year-old in South has been scrapped this year from the golf world 1,000 in February that he planned to could have the chance to host a Augusta National Golf Club said along with a northerly wind will Africa is just – it’s second to while the other three majors, tickets sold in four hours, serve at the Champions Dinner. true Champions Dinner at Au- on Monday that it had identi- make a number of holes play none,” said Immelman. the Masters, PGA Champion- £10k donations!!! “Being born and raised in So- gusta National on November 12. fied November 9-15 as possible longer than they would in April The 40-year-old, who tied for ship and US Open, have all “Was expecting it to take a lot Cal (Southern California), hav- Woods, 44, has not played dates for this year’s Masters, and that should result in fewer 51st at the Masters in 2019 been put back. Fleetwood longer!!! Thank you to all that ing fajitas and sushi was a part since February, when he finished which was postponed due to the birdies and eagles. having missed the cut in each has five European Tour donated.” of my entire childhood,” Woods 82nd at the Genesis Invitational coronavirus outbreak. Had the Masters, which was of the previous five years, said victories, including last year’s Finnis said it was a “tough said of his menu plans in a Mas- at Riviera. He skipped the Play- Immelman, speaking on a supposed to begin on Thursday, Magnolia Lane, the tree-lined Nedbank Golf Challenge time for everyone”. ters conference call. ers Championship due to a back conference call to discuss not been postponed Immelman drive that members use to enter in South Africa, and has “Some caddies will really be “I’m going back to what I had injury. being named of the would have been gearing up the grounds, is what he misses earned more than 18 million feeling this, with families and in 2006. So we’ll have steak and “There are a lot more impor- International team for the 2021 for the traditional Champions most. euros ($19.53 million) in prize possibly no wages for three chicken fajitas, and we’ll have tant things in life than a golf Presidents Cup, said the biggest Dinner at Augusta National on “Every player that has designs money during his career, months so auctioning what sushi and sashimi out on the tournament right now,” Woods wildcard of a November Masters Tuesday. on being a professional, that the European Tour website I can to help them out,” he deck, and I hope the guys will tweeted last month after the will be Mother Nature. Immelman said the dinner, drive down Magnolia Lane showed. added. “Me and my family enjoy it.” PGA Tour shut down due to the “If you look at the golf course in which this year would have been is something that they will Finnis, who has worked with struggled early on in my There was no sign of another deadly virus outbreak. a bubble, I think the course itself hosted by defending champion never forget,” said Immelman. “It the English golfer since 2016, caddying career, so I know treat Woods had put on a prior “We need to be safe, smart and won’t play all that differently. Tiger Woods, is one of the things doesn’t matter how many times said on Twitter on Tuesday how hard it is at times and menu – milkshakes. He included do what is best for ourselves, our They have ways to control it he misses most about not being you’ve been there.” (Reuters) he was selling 1,000 raffle especially now.” (Reuters) those in 1998, the year after his loved ones and our community.”

COMMENT Team Europe captain Harrington shoots down idea of Ryder Cup without fans

Reuters place from September 25-27 at Whistling tension that’s created by the spectators.” At present Europe are due to begin their London Straits in Wisconsin, a week after the Harrington said he held discussions defence of the trophy just a week after a re-scheduled US Open, and Harrington with Ryder Cup organisers regarding the re-arranged US Open. The other two US- believes the absence of fans will ruin the possibility of postponing the event but based majors The Masters and the PGA his year’s Ryder Cup should not spectacle of the biennial match play event. continues to plan for it to go ahead as have also been postponed to November be held if fans are unable to attend “Nobody wants to see the Ryder Cup scheduled. “There are bigger things too and August respectively. the event due to the coronavirus played without the fans being there,” Har- than the Ryder Cup. It’s a big deal in golf pandemic, Team Europe captain rington told BBC Radio. but we have to see the bigger picture,” the T Ryder Cup US Team captain Steve Padraig Harrington said yesterday. “There’s no doubt that it makes the three-times major winner added. The golf calendar has been ravaged by tournament so much better. I think the “I hope that we get our chance to play. I Stricker and European Team captain the outbreak, with three of the sport’s four common consensus now is the Ryder think it’s something that can bring people Padraig Harrington (right) share a laugh majors – The Masters, US Open and PGA Cup will not be played unless the fans are together and is something to look forward as they hold the Ryder Cup trophy after Championship - being postponed, while there. to and enjoy.” the 2020 Ryder Cup Year-to-Go press the British Open was cancelled. “Non-golfers and golfers around the Holders Team Europe beat Team USA conference in Haven on October 1, 2019. The Ryder Cup is scheduled to take world watch the Ryder Cup because of the 17.5-10.5 in 2018. (USA TODAY Sports) Gulf Times Thursday, April 9, 2020 3 CRICKET

FOCUS DECISION South Africa to put fitness clauses into Australia star Smith player contracts

Reuters to keep up their fitness be- Cape Town cause we will be inserting new fitness clauses in contracts,” Boucher confirmed via an au- ricket South Africa dio statement released by CSA. hoping for IPL action (CSA) will introduce “In the recent past we have fitness clauses into seen that players who are not Cplayer contracts in fit enough don’t get selected. the future in a bid to set mini- They are professionals and ‘Plenty going on in the mum standards for selection, they need to do what they have national team coach Mark to do.” world at present, but Boucher said yesterday. South Africa were recalled It follows a special fitness early from a limited overs tour ‘at some stage’ hopefully we can get an IPL’ camp for four players held in of India last month over fears January that cast their inter- around the coronavirus, but national futures in doubt, as Boucher believes that, so far, AFP well as fears that a strict 21- their plans have not been dis- New Delhi day lockdown in South Africa rupted to a great degree by the could leave a number of other lockdown. “The plan was al- players below the required ways to give the guys some time ustralian cricket star standard. off to spend with the family. It is hop- All-rounders Sisanda also gives them the chance to ing the Indian Premier Magala and Jon-Jon Smuts, get over a few niggles. ALeague will be held “at spinner and “The first two or three some stage” as sports events fast bowler were weeks is always key, to refresh around the world remain on hold all placed in what was termed a physically and mentally. We because of the coronavirus. special ‘high-performance fit- have put in some programmes The cricket calendar has been ness and conditioning camp’. around the house for the guys hit hard by the deadly pandemic, With South Africa in lock- to keep them fit and strong. including India’s lucrative and down due to the coronavirus “They need to keep their star-studded IPL Twenty20 outbreak, which has led to a discipline. There will be test- tournament, which was due to clampdown on exercising out- ing after the lockdown period.” begin on March 29. side the house, Boucher ad- South Africa’s next assign- The opening match was mits players will have to take ment is scheduled to be a lim- pushed to April 15 but it is un- responsibility for maintaining ited overs tour to Sri Lanka in clear if the this year’s IPL will their fitness levels. “Guys need June. be played at all or cancelled al- together. “Plenty going on in the world at present, but hope- OPINION fully we can get an IPL at some stage,” said Smith, in a podcast published by IPL side , which he captains. Ponting calls 2005 “The two seasons that I cap- tained the Royals were both half seasons. gave me Ashes as one of the the captaincy in 2015 and then last year out of the blue, I took over at the back end of the sea- all-time great ones son,” he added. “Looking at hav- ing a crack at it full time and the IANS Royals have a pretty good squad.” Rajasthan Royals captain Steve Smith (right) with his teammates Jofra Archer (left) during an IPL match. (AFP) Sydney Aside from the IPL, Smith also has his eyes on another big prize: winning a Test series in India. Smith excited to see how Jaiswal, Parag would perform in IPL 13 ormer Australia skip- “As an Australian cricketer - per has Ashes is always big and World Rajasthan Royals captain Steve when he almost dismissed M S the smile on his face when he tournament. said the 2005 Ashes Cups are big,” he told New Zea- Smith is looking forward to Dhoni. “Young 17-year-old kid was was so cool. We’ve “Jaiswal, he was the top scorer was one of the most how the younger players in the carrying around his teddy bears. been very lucky to have some at the U19s and looks a quality F land spinner Ish Sodhi in the enthralling contests that he Royals podcast. squad, particularly all-rounder He copped a bit but when he good young players.” player. So, fingers crossed we has been part of. Ponting was “But now India is the number and batsman went out to play he did it with Smith said that he is also excited can get over this year and see asked by Australia batsman one team in the world, it’s a very , perform in such freedom and even won to see how Jaiswal would do all that young talent close up to talk about difficult place to play Test crick- the 2020 season of the Indian a few games with his own bat. if and when the season starts. again,” said Smith. some of his greatest Ashes et, so I’d love to be able to win a Premier League. Pretty special, I could just see Jaiswal went into the U19 World Smith hoped that the situation memories on Instagram. series there,” added Smith, cur- Riyan was 17-year-old when he the joy on his face,” Smith said in Cup last year with a lot of hype around the coronavirus pandem- “It was my childhood dream rently the top-ranked Test bats- made his IPL debut with the Roy- an interaction with RR team- around him due to his record ic gets normalised quickly and to play some Ashes cricket. I Former Australia skipper man in the world. als last year and Smith said that mate Ish Sodhi on the franchise’s breaking double-ton in the Vijay the IPL can happen this year. It have played in eight or nine Ricky Ponting. Australia are not scheduled to he was very much impressed Facebook page. Hazare Trophy. He ended up was scheduled to start on March Ashes series so there are some tour India until 2022. with the freedom with which “He was bowling to M S Dhoni taking the World Cup by storm 29 but had to be postponed due fond memories and then there torious in the opening Test Smith, 30, was captain of the he batted and recalled the time and almost got him out and just and was the highest scorer in the to the spread of the virus. are some which are not that at Lord’s, but then the side Australian Test side before he fond memories,” Ponting said went on to lose the second and was punished for his role in a in Instagram video he upload- fourth Test match. ball-tampering scandal in 2018 New Zealand tour helped me grow in confidence: Samson ed after Warner’s request. Ponting also referred to and hit with a two-year leader- “One such not so fond England all-rounder Andrew ship ban. India wicketkeeper-batsman and off the ground. And then to be a part of in to bat in the again in a tight memory includes the 2005 Flintoff shaking Aussie pacer That ban expired last month, has not had a lot of chances to stake a claim the world’s best cricket team is not a small match (fourth T20I in Wellington), that Ashes series, where we were ’s hand after winning sparking speculation that he but he is happy with sharing the dressing thing,” he told The Times of India on his too with Virat Kohli. So you can make out beaten by ’s the second Test by two runs, could return to the helm. room with the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit time on the bench. the trust the Indian team had on me. That England. It was probably one saying these are memories that Smith is widely considered Sharma while learning from them. “The New Zealand tour was one of the best moment was a huge achievement in my of the all-time great series, are remembered forever. one of the modern-day giants of Samson, 25, played two T20Is in New times of my life. Yes, it is true that I could career,” he said. (IANS) Vaughan’s team was too good. “The fourth Test we ended , having scored 7,227 runs Zealand in the five-match series which India not perform with the bat the way I would We won the first Test at Lord’s up losing and England snuck - including 26 centuries - in 73 won 5-0, but failed to make an impact with have loved to. But I believe the change of but then came the Edgbaston up the line, and the fifth ended Tests. scores of 2 and 8. He was given a chance style that I have adopted in my batting Test, it was one of the all-time in a draw, and we ended up los- He had narrowly missed out against Sri Lanka also in Pune earlier this recently will sometimes lead to failures. I great Tests and we came up ing . Unfortunately, on his series dream in 2017 when year but there also he managed just six. have started to accept that fact and I wait short, then in the third Test we we were not good enough. India edged the visiting Austral- “I looked at the brighter side of things. I got and prepare for my next big successful in- had to battle it out for a draw,” The everlasting image to come ians 2-1 in a bitterly fought cam- to share the dressing room with legends nings,” he added. Samson recalled when he he added. England had won out of that series was that of paign. Ricky Ponting remains like Virat bhai and Rohit bhai and there was sent to bat in the Super Over alongside the Ashes in 2005 after the Brett Lee and Andrew Flintoff the only Australian captain to is a lot to learn from them even if we just skipper Virat Kohli in the 4th T20I, it helped hosts beat Australia 2-1 in the down on one knee celebrating have won a Test series in India - observe the way they handle themselves on boost his confidence. “In fact, I was sent five-match series. the end of a great Test match,” in 2004-05. Australia had emerged vic- Ponting said.

SPOTLIGHT Coronavirus prevents play at Trump-opened world’s biggest cricket stadium in Motera

AFP Eclipsing Australia’s finishing touches,” the official another “white elephant” van- often played to near-empty sta- New Delhi 100,000-capacity Melbourne added. ity project in Modi’s home state, diums. Cricket Ground, it was ru- The Board of Control for following the completion of the The only matches guaranteed moured to be in line to host the Cricket in India (BCCI) has world’s largest statue there in to attract big crowds are IPL here is no larger sym- final of this year’s Indian Pre- pushed back the IPL from its 2018 - also dedicated to inde- games and one-day internation- bol of the global sports mier League, the world’s richest original start date of March 29 pendence hero Sardar Patel. als - and even then it depends on shutdown than cricket’s Twenty20 tournament, watched to April 15, but with the number The giant Statue of Unity the quality of the opposition. 110,000-seater Sardar by millions worldwide. of coronavirus cases in India measures 182 metres tall (597 The nation of 1.3 billion people T already has more than a dozen Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad, But then came Covid-19. exceeding 5,000 and still ris- feet) -- twice the height of New opened by US President Don- The pandemic has brought the ing, pressure is growing for it to York’s Statue of Liberty. stadiums capable of hosting in- ald Trump, but yet to see a ball sporting world to a grinding halt be shifted again, truncated or Modi was Gujarat chief min- ternational cricket, although in bowled. with massive events including scrapped. ister for 13 years until 2014, and the off-season they can be used India’s newest and the world’s the Tokyo Olympics, football’s revamping the former Motera for other events. biggest cricket stadium lies European Championships, golf UNOBSTRUCTED VIEWS stadium had been long a pet “You are left wondering empty because of the corona- and tennis majors, and the glitzy The $100-million, circular ven- project. whether it is a rock concert ven- virus pandemic. Where there IPL postponed. ue, promises unobstructed views Home Minister Amit Shah, ue, (or) is it a cricket stadium?” should be the sound of leather on “There was hardly any time and has state-of-the-art facili- a close ally, headed the Gujarat ESPNcricinfo senior editor willow and the roar of the crowd, between the Trump event and ties including an Olympic-sized Cricket Association till last year Sharda Ugra told AFP. there is only silence. the pandemic,” a senior Gujarat swimming pool as part of a mul- and his son Jay Shah is the sec- “I would have hoped that Just a few weeks ago, it had Cricket Association official told tisports complex. retary of the BCCI, the world’s there would have been some been packed to capacity as AFP on condition of anonym- Next door, a refurbished richest and most powerful crick- analysis on the kind of grounds Trump and India’s Prime Min- ity, adding that once cricket venue on the site of the former et board. that India needs now. ister Narendra Modi stood side- resumes, the stadium could be 49,000-capacity Motera Sta- Despite cricket being wildly “We have a lot of these gi- by-side in a show of pomp and ready “in double-quick time.” dium will serve as a venue for popular in India, domestic first ant grounds in which you have This photograph taken on April 3, 2020, shows a general view of the ceremony for the February 24 “Just five percent work is re- cricket, football and hockey. class matches - and even some one international match in two Sardar Patel Stadium during a government-imposed nationwide lockdown inauguration. maining and it just needs the Critics have charged that it is international Test matches - are years.” as a preventive measure against the Covid-19 in Motera. (AFP) Gulf Times 4 Thursday, April 9, 2020 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Antetokounmpo donates masks to Greek city AFP They grew up selling merchan- Athens dise in the streets of the capital in order to help their poor family, ‘Misled’ Australian fans to get but basketball changed their lives File photo of Milwaukee Bucks forward refunds for USA games reek basketball star Gi- and Giannis signed a $100mn Giannis Antetokounmpo. (TNS) annis Antetokounmpo four-year contract with the Bucks AFP Rod Sims said. TEG Live advertised and his brothers donated in 2016. Sydney the games using an image of 10,000 surgical masks “I thank from the bottom of my an American basketball sta- G dium showing floor-level seats as to the Athens suburb of Zografou heart the Antetokounmpo broth- yesterday to help fight the coro- ers for their generous offer which sports promoter has tiered, which was not the case in navirus outbreak. acquires even greater dimensions promised to refund fans Melbourne. Many of the premium “The municipality of Zogra- because it takes place during left disappointed by seats - which cost between $895 fou wants to express its great these difficult times for the entire poor views and a lack and $3,995 - had obstructed views A of the court. Advertising also gratitude to the Antetokounmpo planet,” said Zografou mayor Vas- of big-name NBA stars, such as family for offering 10,000 masks silis Thodas. LeBron James, at two Australia vs suggested top NBA stars such as to the residents of the city as a “With their offer they confirm USA basketball matches last year. the Los Angeles Lakers superstar measure of protection against the that they have not forgotten the The Australian Competition and James and Kevin Durant of the Covid-19 virus,” a statement from city and when the nightmare of Consumer Commission (ACCC) Brooklyn Nets would be playing the municipality said. the coronavirus is over, the mu- said TEG Live would refund Aus$5 in the exhibition games, when the The gesture from the family, “in nicipality will honour Giannis million (US$3 million) to about promoter had not confirmed their addition to the substantial offer to and his brothers accordingly,” 5,000 people who bought 20,000 appearance. the citizens of Zografou, proves he added. The municipality an- tickets to the games in Sydney and “In the end, only four players the close bond that the Antetok- nounced that the masks donated Melbourne in August. from the 35-man squad - Harrison ounmpo brothers have with the by the Antetokounmpo family The ACCC found the promoter had Barnes, Kemba Walker, Khris Mid- city that remained for several will be immediately distributed made “false or misleading claims” dleton and Myles Turner - played years their home,” it added. to employees in the region and to about the views fans would have in the games,” ACCC chair Rod Milwaukee Bucks standout Gi- vulnerable groups. of the court and which USA stars Sims said. “We are concerned annis, last season’s NBA MVP, and Yesterday the Greek govern- would be playing. “In our view, consumers may have purchased his brothers Thanasis, Kostas and ment announced 52 new corona- TEG Live’s conduct was unaccept- tickets believing many of these Alexis grew up in poverty in their virus cases in the country, bring- able, and we are pleased around advertised high profile players early days in Greece where their ing the total to 1,884. Greece has 5,000 consumers will receive would be playing when, in the end, parents had arrived from Nigeria so far reported 83 deaths from the automatic refunds,” ACCC chair this was not the case.” as immigrants. virus.

FOCUS OPINION Gatland wants Lions Brady admits to playing to play All Blacks through concussions ‘I accomplished everything I could in two decades with during his career an incredible organisation’ AFP New York

om Brady admitted yesterday he has suffered concussions during 20 NFL seasons with Tthe New England Patriots but says that won’t stop him from chasing AFP depart. a seventh Super Bowl crown. Wellington But he suggested the full The 42-year-old quarterback, who New Zealand Test team should signed a two-year contract last month be involved in the fixture in- with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, said ritish and Irish Lions stead. on “The Howard Stern Show” on Sir- coach Warren Gat- “Is it something the All ius XM radio he has sustained major land has proposed a Blacks could do, go up there head injuries but rejected the notion Bseries “decider” be- and we could do a bit of a de- he needs to quit playing because of it. tween the All Blacks and his cider before we go off to South “I’ve definitely had concussions, composite team when the Africa at the end of June next yeah,” Brady admitted. coronavirus crisis is over. year?” he told New Zealand’s “I could sit here and stop playing Gatland oversaw the Lions’ Sky Sports late yesterday. football so I could worry about what’s 2017 tour to New Zealand, “Potentially it’s a chance to going to happen or worry about this when a 15-15 deadlock at Eden make 4-5mn pounds ($US5- or that instead of saying, ‘Why don’t I Park meant the three-Test se- 6.2mn) to put some money live my life the way that I want to and ries ended in a draw. back into the coffers that we’re enjoy it?’ Players from both sides ex- going to need.” “For me, it’s doing what I love to pressed disappointment at the Gatland also floated the do. You don’t tell a musician to stop time that no one had won the idea of Southern Hemisphere singing at age 42. You don’t tell a great series and Gatland said a one- nations travelling to the north painter to stop painting at 42.” off Test next year could decide in November this year for But those artists generally don’t the issue once and for all. a round-robin tournament suffer severe head injuries in their He said rugby chiefs needed in which revenues would be creative outlets. to think creatively to generate shared. “If you want to stop, stop, go much-needed revenue when The former Wales coach is ahead,” Brady said. “But for me, be- the game eventually restarts currently in charge of Waikato cause I feel like I can still play, doesn’t and the fixture would be huge- Chiefs but will take over at mean I should just stop playing be- ly appealing to fans. the Lions again for next year’s cause that’s what everyone tells me I The Lions tour South Af- South Africa tour. should do.” rica next year and Gatland After coaching mainly in The NFL has tightened rules to said he was already in dis- the Northern Hemisphere, protect players who might have head cussions with New Zealand Gatland said he had been im- injuries, but Brady has notably not Rugby about the Maori All pressed with the skills of the been diagnosed with concussions, al- Blacks playing a warm-up players in the Hamilton-based though his wife —supermodel Gisele game against them before they Super Rugby team. Bundchen — said in May 2017 he had suffered concussions. “He has concussions pretty much ANNOUNCEMENT every, I mean, we don’t talk about, but he does have concussions,” she said. “I File photo of Tom Brady (left) in action during a playoff game against the Tennessee at Gillette Stadium.PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports don’t really think it’s a healthy thing for anybody to go through.” NO BELICHICK RESENTMENT Welsh players’ pay An NFL statement said all reports Brady said he had no resentment Former Eagles star Brown dies at 82 from unaffiliated neurotrauma con- toward Patriots coach Bill Belichick sultants and certified athletic train- at not keeping him after winning an Former Philadelphia Eagles running back the most exciting players to watch during slashed by a quarter er spotters at 2016 Patriots games NFL record six titles under his guid- and kick returner Timmy Brown has died his career. Those who knew him well have showed “there are no records that in- ance. at the age of 82, the team announced on said they will remember him for his outgo- AFP our business, but they are also dicate that Mr. Brady suffered a head “I think he has a lot of loyalty,” Tuesday. ing, uplifting personality and the connec- London our biggest cost,” PRB’s chair- injury or concussion, or exhibited Brady said. “So many wrong as- The Eagles said that Brown had died on tions he built with his teammates and person Amanda Blanc said in a or complained of concussion symp- sumptions were made about our re- Saturday, although a cause of death was the community. Our thoughts are with statement. toms.” Brady told Stern that while he lationship or about how he felt about not announced. his loved ones during this time.” Brown, layers at Wales’ four “But they are in the midst didn’t make a “final, final decision” me. I know genuinely how he feels Brown was selected by the Packers in the who spent eight seasons with the Eagles, regions earning more of short careers, many in the until March 16, he was fairly certain about me. 27th round of the 1959 NFL Draft, but he holds the franchise record for most kickoff than £25,000 (28,566 prime of those careers and the 2019 season would be his last with “What his responsibility as coach was released after playing just one game returns (169), most kickoff return yards euros) will take a 25 % we are asking them to make for Green Bay. Brown joined the Eagles the (4,483) and most kickoff returns for touch- P the Patriots even though he wanted to is to get the best player for the team, pay cut until July 1 due to the a financial sacrifice that they continue his career. not only in the short term but in the following year and helped the team win downs (five). He returned two kickoffs for coronavirus pandemic, Welsh won’t have planned for.” “I would say I probably knew before long term as well. So what I could the NFL championship in 1960. “Timmy touchdowns in a 24-23 win over the Dallas rugby’s Professional Rugby Under a system introduced the start of last season that it was my control is trying to be the best I could Brown was an all-time great Eagle and one Cowboys on Nov. 6, 1966, becoming the Board (PRB) announced yes- last year, the Welsh Rugby last year,” Brady said. “I knew that our be in both of those situations. of the most dynamic multipurpose players first NFL player to accomplish that feat. terday. Union pays 80% of the sala- time was coming to an end.” “I got into uncharted territory as of his era. He overcame many obstacles in Brown, who was selected to the Pro Bowl The season for squad mem- ries of the 38 top-ranked Brady said he realized “it was just an athlete because I started to break his life to enjoy success both as an athlete in 1962, 1963 and 1965, was inducted into bers at the Scarlets, the Os- players, with the players’ time” to find another club. the mould of what so many other and as an entertainer,” Eagles chairman the Eagles’ Hall of Fame in 1996. preys, the Cardiff Blues and regions contributing the re- “I don’t know what to say other athletes had experienced, so I got to and CEO Jeffrey Lurie said in a statement. After finishing his playing career with the the Dragons was put on hold maining 20%. than that,” Brady said. “I accom- the point where I was an older ath- “A three-time Pro Bowler and member of Baltimore Colts in 1968, he tried his luck at the end of February follow- The sides feature in the plished everything I could in two dec- lete and he’s starting to plan for the our 1960 NFL Championship team, Timmy in Hollywood. Brown appeared in movies ing the Covid-19 outbreak. Pro14 league competition and ades with an incredible organisation... future, which is what his responsi- excelled as a running back and return including “MASH” and “Nashville” plus tel- “For our professional play- the European Champions and no one can ever take those experiences bility is. specialist with his incredible athleticism evision shows including “M*A*S*H,” “Adam- ers in particular this has been Challenge Cups, while rugby or Super Bowl championships away “I don’t fault him for that. That’s and signature versatility. He was one of 12,” “Mission: Impossible” and “Benson.” a really tough decision, they across all levels in Wales has from us.” what he should be doing.” are at the very sharp end of been suspended. Thursday, April 9, 2020 GULF TIMES SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Paris Saint-Germain Academy Qatar rolls out remote programme n this period of lockdown, the Paris Saint-Germain Academy Qatar has been working hard to build up Ia high-quality remote programme and give their 1000 players and all the football fans in Doha the opportunity to stay active. Twice a week, the Paris Saint-Germain Academy Qatar release on their Youtube channel a 30-45 min- utes programme adapted to any ages, skills levels and space constraint. From nutrition tips, warm up, ball mastery to fitness, the participants can enjoy a professional session and keep pro- gressing while staying home. In addition to the remote programme and to maintain a strong level of en- gagement with the local community, Paris Saint-Germain Academy Qatar delivers a Facebook live training session every Thursday at 4pm. Those programmes will be run at least until end of May and might be ex- tended all over the summer according to the health situation. Fabien Dilem, General Manager of the Paris Saint- Germain Regional Office in Doha said: “As a major football club it is part of our In this file photo, Paris Saint-Germain President Nasser al-Khelaifi poses with academy players and coaching staff. commitment to put our expertise and knowledge at the service of the youth weeks. We will keep working hard in the country (Education City – Lusail – work on things that we usually don’t open to anyone wherever you are and the next weeks we will continue to en- during this difficult period. We are here order to continue to deliver our remote Wakra – Al Khor). have time for during the season, so it’s whatever is your level. We are lucky to rich our programmes, to run our live to support the local community by pro- training programmes until the situa- Meanwhile, Technical Director Cyril a tough time but I’m sure we will find be supported in this by the main Paris sessions every Thursday and support viding them with the appropriate tools tion gets better.” Kloseck spoke about the daily work positive impacts in it,” he said Saint-Germain youth academy, as well the football fans. Every week we can see to keep their children active. Launched in January 2019, Paris routine. “It’s been a bit challenging “All the coaches have been mobilised as Didier Domi, a former Paris Saint- how happy the kids are when they reach “I really want to thank Cyril Kloseck Saint-Germain Academy Qatar be- for the team and myself to reorganise from day one to build a programme by Germain player part of our team and the football field and we can imagine our Technical Director, Didier Domi came in a few month one of the biggest our work by staying home or at the of- taking into consideration all the param- bringing his experience to overcome how frustrating can be that period for former PSG player and Technical Ad- football programme in Qatar, with 1000 fice since we are more use to being on eters and constraints such as the space this challenge,” Kloseck added. all them. So it’s part of our role and visor, and the entire coaches’ team for players, boys and girls from 5 to 17 years the field but overall everything is fine. or equipment. The idea was to come up On academy’s plan for the upcoming mission to keep working hard and try their amazing work over the last three old split over four training locations in That’s the perfect moment to think and with a session easy to implement and weeks and months, Kloseck said: “Over to fill their day with engaging content.”

PREMIER LEAGUE TENNIS Suspicious match alerts Mane would ‘understand’ if up due to virus shutdown: TIU Reuters

Liverpool were denied title lerts for suspicious betting patterns in ‘It has been difficult for Liverpool, but it has been more difficult for many millions of people around the world’ tennis increased dur- Aing the first quarter of 2020 as corruptors targeted Agencies “He’s always sending messages to lower level tours as the sport London the players to talk about things and headed towards a shutdown due he’s always positive, which is incred- to the coronavirus outbreak, the ible for him. Hopefully this season will Tennis Integrity Unit (TIU) said adio Mane says he would under- be not be made void and Liverpool will yesterday. stand if Liverpool were denied become (champions). It has been an un- The tennis season was halted the Premier League title even believable season for me and my team- in early March due to the pan- Sthough they were on the brink mates and we are 25 points (ahead in the demic, leaving players in the of glory when coronavirus forced a league), which is incredible.” lower tiers who solely depend on shutdown. Jurgen Klopp’s men were 25 Mane has welcomed Liverpool’s tournament winnings without points clear of City when about-turn on Monday when the club the opportunity to earn a liv- football came to a halt last month, ago- reversed a decision to furlough some of ing. A 2018 International Review nisingly close to their first top-flight their non-playing staff due to the Cov- Panel report commissioned to triumph in 30 years. id-19 pandemic. address betting and integrity is- But it is unclear when, or even if, the “Yes,” the Senegal striker said when sues said that players in the low- season will be completed. Asked if he asked if he was pleased Liverpool had est tiers were susceptible to cor- feels like a champion, the 27-year-old changed their mind and will continue ruption because of the difficulty Senegal forward told Talksport that he to pay the staff in full rather than claim- in making a living. Only 250-350 wanted to win the Premier League on ing back 80% of their pay up to 2,500 players, the report said, earned the pitch. “I want to win the games and I pounds ($3,087.25) per month under the enough to break even. The TIU, want to get the trophy, it’s what I would government scheme. which is tasked with tackling love,” he said. “It’s a really, really good club, like a corruption in the game, said it “But with this situation, whatever family, the coaches, the staff, the play- received 38 match alerts from happens I will understand. It has been ers, everybody. The fans as well, you can the regulated betting industry difficult for Liverpool, but it has been see how good they are and how passion- between January and March 22, more difficult for many millions of ate they are behind their team.” compared to 21 alerts for the people around the world. Some people Mane has been a benefactor in his same period last year. have lost family members and that is home village Bambali in Senegal, re- “The increase... is an indica- the more complicated situation. But for cently building a hospital and donating tion that the entry levels of pro- myself, it’s my dream and I want to win 41,000 pounds towards the country’s fessional tennis were deliberate- it this year. If that’s not the case, I will fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. ly targeted by corruptors, as the accept, it’s part of life. Hopefully we “It’s something I’ve thought about sport moved towards suspension will win it next year.” since I was young. In my mind, I wanted due to the coronavirus pandem- UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin to do something for my village. I grew ic,” it said in a statement. said this week there was “no way” Liv- up there and we were not wealthy and The body received 16 alerts erpool should finish the season without it’s a really, really small village and I each from the men’s and wom- the title, even if the campaign is can- know the conditions of life are not op- en’s tennis tour, run by the In- celled. Mane praised manager Juergen timum. It’s a tough moment, not just ternational Tennis Federation, Klopp for his positivity. “He (Klopp) is for Senegal but for all the world, and I while six came from the ATP someone who’s really, really positive and think what is really important is to stick challenger series. While tennis right now he’s more positive than ever, together and try to do the best to fight rewards top players handsomely, which is his strength and which makes against this sickness, which is really those in the lower echelons often him so special,” Mane told Reuters. bad. And in Senegal it is also growing.” Sadio Mane has recently built a hospital and donated 41,000 pounds in his home village Bambali in Senegal. (Reuters) struggle to make ends meet.

ROUND-UP FOCUS England great Greaves awaits Serena’s coach Mouratoglou says hospital test results ‘revolting’ that players can’t make a living

ottenham and England a record-breaking 266 goals in Spain’s La Liga suspended indef- Reuters The men’s ATP Tour and the WTA, which great Jimmy Greaves 379 competitive appearances for initely and club income sharply Mumbai runs the women’s circuit, suspended all remains in hospital while the north London club. reduced, Sevilla said their tournaments until mid-July after countries The awaits the outcome decision would affect first team started locking down their borders to con- of tests but his illness is not PSG LAUNCH CROWD players as well as other playing erena Williams’ coach Patrick tain the spread of the flu-like virus. related to coronavirus, his agent FUNDING PLATFORM staff and back room staff. Mouratoglou has called on tennis A 2018 International Review Panel report said yesterday. Tottenham an- Paris St Germain are launch- That means “a reduction of governing bodies to come together commissioned to address betting and in- nounced on Tuesday that their ing a crowd fundng platform 70% of working hours for staff Sand devise a way of helping lower tegrity issues said that players in the lowest record goalscorer, who turned to help the local hospitals amid and men’s and women’s first level professionals struggling financially due tiers were susceptible to corruption because 80 in February, was receiving the coronavirus outbreak, the team players and the reserves,” to the coronavirus shutdown. The tennis of the difficulty in making a living. Only 250- medical treatment. Greaves, who French champions said. PSG, the club said, adding that players season was halted in early March due to the 350 players, the report said, earned enough scored 44 goals in 57 England who have already raised 200,000 had agreed to the terms. pandemic, leaving players in the lower tiers to break even. Georgia’s Sofia Shapatava, the appearances, spent a comfort- euros ($217,240) by selling a Sevilla join Barcelona, Espan- who solely depend on tournament winnings world’s 375th ranked women’s singles play- able night and hopes to be able to ‘Tous Unis’ (All United) jersey, yol and other top clubs in taking without the opportunity to earn a living. While tennis rewards top players hand- er, has started a petition seeking assistance be discharged soon. added that they would announce advantage of a government In a letter posted on Twitter and ad- somely those in the lower echelons often from the International Tennis Federation for Greaves suffered a severe new solidarity measures in the scheme known by its initials dressed to the tennis community, Moura- struggle to make ends meet. Mouratoglou, lower-level professionals. Many others have stroke in May 2015, which left coming days. ERTE that authorises salary cuts toglou said the current situation showed who started working with Williams in 2012 joined her to voice their concerns about the him wheelchair-bound. Free- by up to 70 per cent in extreme how “dysfunctional” the sport was. “Unlike and has guided her to 10 of her 23 Grand financial hardships players face during the scoring Greaves came through LA LIGA CLUB SEVILLA circumstances. La Liga, which basketball or football players, tennis play- Slam singles titles, said the top players de- shutdown. the ranks at Chelsea, netting 132 SLASH WAGE BILL estimates that clubs stand to lose ers aren’t covered by fixed annual salaries. served everything they earned. The WTA and the ATP said they were goals in 169 matches before join- Sevilla said they planned to join around 1bn euros if the season They’re independent contractors,” he said. “However, I find it revolting that the working to boost players’ earnings when the ing Italian giants AC Milan. The Barcelona and other top Spanish is not resumed, backs the move “They’re paying for their travels. They’re 100th-best player of one of the most popu- sport resumed and might extend the 2020 striker returned to England in clubs in slashing players’ wages by clubs hoping to minimise the paying fixed salaries to their coaching staffs, lar sports in the world — followed by an es- season to allow more tournaments to be December 1961, joining Spurs for by up to 70% in response to the economic consequences of the while their own salaries depend on the timated 1bn fans — is barely able to make a held. Mouratoglou said it was crucial to keep £99,999 ($124,000), and scored coronavirus pandemic. With virus. number of matches they win.” living out of it,” the Frenchman said. lower-level players in the game.