TENNIS | Page 2 | Page 3 ‘Big Three’ Three West join campaign Indies players against racial turn down injustice England tour

Thursday, June 4, 2020 MOTORSPORT Shawwal 12, 1441 AH No race cancellation GULF TIMES if driver contracts coronavirus: F1 boss SPORT Page 5

FOCUS Plan in motion for football action to return in Qatar Training will resume on June 10 after the first round of Covid-19 testing for players and referees on June 8-9

hmed Khellil Abbassi, and QSL. Journalists won’t be Executive Director of allowed to cover matches at the Competition and Foot- Qatar coach Sanchez names squad for venue and QSL will provide the Aball Development at the summer training camp media with all necessary details. Qatar Stars League (QSL), speaks As far as the Host Broadcaster about the general plan for play- By Sports Reporter Ayyash, Sultan al-Berik, Asim is concerned, we co-ordinated ers to return to training after the Doha Madbo, Karim Boudaif, Abdullah with them to explain the precau- end of their annual vacation in Abdel Salam, Ismail Mohamed, tionary measures and the need to preparation for the resumption Abd al-Rahman Mohamed, reduce the number of workers to of 2019-20 QNB Stars League. atar coach Felix Mohamed Montari, Al-Moez a minimum, knowing that all of Excerpts: Sanchez yesterday an- Ali, Saad al-Sheeb, Meshal Bar- these steps to be followed will be Qnounced a squad of 34 sham, Pedro Miguel, Khoukhi evaluated according to the devel- The competitions will return players for a summer training Boualam, Tariq Salman, Abdel opments that take place. after a long break. How do you camp, Qatar Football Associa- Karim Hassan, Mohamed Waad, view it? tion (QFA) has confirmed. The prepare for the 2022 FIFA World Hassan al-Haydos, Akram Afif, FIFA recently approved five It’s a positive step towards Spaniard has invited the players Cup and 2023 AFC Asian Cup Youssef Hassan, Mahdi Ali, substitutions in a match for returning to normal life after a for the June 12-July 3 camp after qualifiers set to be held later Hammam al-Amin, Moayad the remainder of this season. break. We should all adapt to and co-ordinating with QFA, the Qa- this year. Qatar has three more Hassan, Ahmed Alaa, Musab Will it be implemented? coexist with the current situa- tar Stars League and the clubs. matches to qualify for the 2023 Khader, Ahmed Fathi, Jassem The five substitutions ap- tion, so that things will return to QFA said the players and the AFC Asian Cup to be held in Jaber, Youssef Abdel Razzaq, proved by FIFA will be imple- how they were before the corona- coaching staff will strictly adhere China. Mohamed Salah, Abdulaziz mented, allowing teams to use a virus pandemic (Covid-19), tak- to medical protocols outlined by Hatem, Fahd Younis, Ahmed maximum of five substitutes on ing into account safety and secu- Ministry of Public Health. SQUAD: Mohamed al-Bakri, Moeen and Ahmed Suhail three occasions during a game. rity measures for everyone. The Qatar squad will gather to Bassam al-Rawi, Mohamed Coach: Felix Sanchez What’re the latest develop- We noticed a lot of engage- ments on the extension of play- ment from the players during Asian football getting ‘closer’ to return: official ers’ contracts with the clubs? the break, through the com- AFP John said: “We are approaching ing in June or July and Thailand Work is currently underway to mitment to distance training. Ministry of Public Health, taking Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia closer to the return of football.” scheduled for September. co-ordinate with competent au- How did you see that? into account the examples and “We have to wait for all the John said the AFC was “still thorities in order to finalise the This period was very impor- protocols for leagues that have domestic leagues to start first,” in discussion” about when its matter as early as possible. tant for players to maintain fit- resumed again. sia’s Champions League is added John, when asked about competitions will restart, declin- ness, as we noticed a great com- Also, according to the protocol getting closer to a return the return of the AFC’s club ing to reveal a possible date. About the resumption of this mitment being shown by them. and general plan, there’ll be three Abut it will have to wait tournaments. Asked if there were any propos- season’s Ooredoo Cup… Has The technical staff also devel- phases: until domestic competitions are The AFC Champions League, als to change the tournaments’ it been included in the general oped appropriate programmes The first phase is the -begin back in action, a senior football Asia’s top club competition, and home-and-away format to avoid plan and calendar? for distance training and they ning of training after being tested official told AFP yesterday. the second-tier AFC Cup have potential infections, John said The Ooredoo Cup is part of followed the players, either in negative for Covid-19. Training Football is gradually resuming both been on hold since March, talks were ongoing. this season’s plan and its remain- person or via GPS devices. will resume on 10th June. around the world after closing along with World Cup and John said it was a “positive ing schedule will be announced I want to take this opportunity The second phase is team down because of the coronavi- Olympic qualifiers. sign” that sport was beginning for completion at a later time to thank the clubs, coaches and training in group after being test- rus, although most leagues are Of the 12 countries involved in to return around the world, when approved. players for the great co-opera- ed negative on Covid-19 on the still yet to return. the Champions League, South adding that the AFC had several tion from their side during this second examination. Asian Football Confederation Korea is the only league back in contingency plans to cope with How will the changes this difficult period, which reflects The third phase is the start of general secretary Windsor action, with four more restart- travel restrictions. season affect the start of the on the professionalism and disci- official competitions and match- 2020-21 season and the cal- pline that we’ve achieved. es conforming to the approved Ahmed Khellil Abbassi, Executive endar in general? precautionary measures and pro- Director of Competition and League schedule be an- will be used after co-ordination co-operation with all parties FIFA has given the confedera- The QSL has taken many nec- tocol for match-day operations. Football Development at QSL. nounced? and co-operation with the Minis- concerned to ensure the safety of tions the option to play or post- essary measures to ensure Also, an educational video to Co-ordination is currently tak- try of Culture and Sports, and Su- all and it will be announced be- pone the national team matches players’ safety when they re- explain the protocol and general players will also be applicable ing place between all authorities preme Committee for Delivery and fore the start of competitions. scheduled in the September FIFA turn to training. What’re the plan, and a workshop will be or- to the referees. There’s co-or- concerned to develop the final Legacy, and the venues will be an- window. Furthermore, the AFC most prominent among them? ganised to explain each phase for dination/arrangement with the schedule and it’ll be announced nounced along with the schedule. Are there arrangements for the has until now not announced its Ensuring the health and safety technical, administrative, and Referees’ Committee of Qatar officially after its approval. media and Host Broadcaster? calendar amendments. Therefore, of players as well as technical medical staff for players. Football Association and Video What are the precautionary Press conferences for clubs we are awaiting the decisions on and administrative staff is one of Assistant Referee (VAR) technol- As the weather gets hotter, measures to be taken during before and after the matches those dates to finalise the plan for the most important priorities of Is there co-ordination/ar- ogy will be used in all games. will the air-conditioned sta- the matches? will be cancelled, and there’ll the 2020-21 season, in alignment QSL. Accordingly, we’ve devel- rangement for referees? diums be used for matches? A protocol for match-day op- only be statements through the with the Asian and international oped a protocol approved by the All procedures involving the When will the QNB Stars Yes, air-conditioned stadiums erations has been developed in social media platforms of clubs calendars. (QSL)

HORSE RACING Al Shaqab Racing’s Snan races to second straight win in France

Agencies La Teste-de-Buch, France Qatar Racing’s Medal Winner strikes at Newcastle On the second day of racing’s The Roger Fell-trained and Callum winner on his first return in England, Qatar Racing’s Rodriguez-ridden Cockalorum and only start as a Medal Winner was a comfortable was locked in a dead heat with four-year-old on the winner and doubled his tally in the Simon & Ed Crisford-trained and all-weather at Pau in Betway Heed Your Hunch Handi- Silvestre De Sousa-ridden Cape A cap at Newcastle on Tuesday. Cavalli for the second place. January, the Al Shaqab Racing- owned and bred Snan kept his Trained by Archie Watson in Medal Winner is by Al Shaqab 100 percent strike rate on the turf Lambourn, the four-year-old grey Racing’s sire Olympic Glory, who track in the Prix Ba Toustem at La gelding sat just behind the leaders stands at Haras de Bouquetot. He Teste, France, yesterday. in the 2000m race for four-year- ran just three times as a three- Julien Augé was on board Tho- old and older runners on the year-old for one place and one mas Fourcy’s ward, and they all-weather. win. This was his first run since started as favourites. Taking no Ridden by Hollie Doyle, they came July 2019. He was bred by Haras risks, the jockey sat him on the into the middle of the track, and de Mandore and was bought by outside of the racing pack. Once once in the straight, Medal Winner HE Sheikh Fahad bin Abdullah bin in the straight, the Thomas Four- pulled easily clear of his rivals. Khalifa al-Thani’s manager, David cy-trained four-year-old chest- He was never threatened and he Redvers, at the Arqana Breeze Up Hollie Doyle (left) rides Medal Winner to a victory in Newcastle, nut colt came up to the lead to Julien Augé (left) rides Snan to Prix Ba Toustem victory at La Teste, won comfortably by two lengths. Sale. England, on Tuesday. (Grossick Racing) battle with His Highness Sheikh France, yesterday. (Robert Polin) Sheikh Mohamed bin Khalifa al-Thani’s Askar, but the closer He won by an impressive four- cois Rohaut and jockey Damien trained by Fourcy, was further “He only did the very minimum him. I thought he would be better wanted to look after him and get they came to the line, the bigger and-a-half lengths. Askar was Morin. Nachmi Al Cham, also one and a half lengths behind in when he won on his debut,” said on the turf today. He’s won nicely. him to win. That is done and he will Snan’s advantage became. the runner up for trainer Fran- owned by Al Shaqab Racing and third under Jerome Cabre. Fourcy, “but the track wasn’t for He could have run earlier, but we now go to the Derby unbeaten.” Gulf Times 2 Thursday, June 4, 2020 SPORT

TENNIS SPOTLIGHT ‘Big Three’ join campaign against racial injustice USTA proposes

Reuters Grand Slam winners Maria this entire week... or accepting that Cincinnati Mumbai, India Sharapova, Petra Kvitova and they could’ve posted nothing at all Stan Wawrinka were among other so I should deal with this bare mini- players who signalled their sup- mum bread crumb they have given,” Masters / US Open oger Federer, Rafael port for the campaign. she posted on Twitter. Nadal and Novak Djoko- African-American teenage phe- The United States Tennis Associ- vic were among the ten- nomenon Coco Gauff and Japan’s ation (USTA) posted a black screen double-header Rnis players who joined Naomi Osaka have also expressed shot as well as a statement against the #BlackOutTuesday campaign their anger over Floyd’s death. racism on its social media handles. DPA It would “allow for- against racial injustice, as protests Replying to Federer’s Instagram The USTA, organisers of the New York, United States eign players to remain in continue over the death of George post, the 16-year-old Gauff com- US Open Grand Slam, said it was one place for the duration Floyd, an unarmed black man who mented: “Click the link in my bio “extremely disappointed, angry, of their stay in the United died in police custody. to get resources on HOW YOU and heartbroken” at the hardships he Cincinnati Mas- States, and establish a safer Floyd died after a white police- CAN HELP! THANK YOU.” faced by communities of colour in ters and US Open bubble for competitors.” man pinned his neck under a knee Osaka, whose father is Hai- the United States. could be held as a The WTA and ATP tours for nearly nine minutes in Minne- tian and mother is Japanese, said “The African-American com- double-header in have been suspended since Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. (Right) Roger Federer. (Reuters) T apolis on May 25. people should be doing more than munity is an integral part of our New York in August and March until at least the end Men’s world No 1 Djokovic posting “the black square”. tennis family and the USTA stands September, according to the of July. posted black screenshots on his the message “Black Lives Mat- Nadal, the other members of the “I’m torn between roasting peo- unwaveringly against racism and New York Times. Wimbledon has been Twitter and Instagram pages with ter”, and was joined by Federer and “Big Three” of men’s tennis. ple for only posting the black square injustice of any kind,” it added. Citing sources familiar scrapped for the year but the with the matter, the report French Open, in a contro- said that the American ten- versial unilateral move, has ATHLETICS GOLF nis body USTA has made an shifted to a September 20 according proposal to the start, just one week after the men’s ATP and women’s end of play in New York. WTA Tour. The New York Times said it PGA Tour The Cincinnati Masters was not clear whether play- for men and women would ers would be willing to travel keep its August 17-23 date to New York, one of the epi- Covid-19 but be moved to the Billie centres of the pandemic, or Hammer thrower Jean King National Tennis would be ready to possibly Centre in New York, which play behind closed doors. testing is the traditional venue for Players would be tested the grand slam which would for Covid-19 before their de- follow at its usual slot and parture to the US and regular convoy location August 31-Septem- temperature checks would ber 13. take place there, with all play- demands apology The New York Times said ers also to stay at one hotel ready to roll the proposal was made “to and have only one member of save two of the top events in their entourage with them. A Reuters American tennis during the isolation period may also have Toronto, Canada coronavirus pandemic” . to take place. from USOC chiefs he PGA Tour will roll out three mobile laboratories Tough for Clijsters to get Berry was reprimanded for protesting racial injustice on the podium that will conduct on site test- Ting at all tournaments as the back to top level: Ivanovic AFP sport returns from a nearly three- Los Angeles, United States month coronavirus hiatus next week Reuters with the Charles Schwab Challenge London, United Kingdom in Texas. ammer thrower Gwen The mobile testing units, each Berry demanded an manned by a driver and three techni- im Clijsters will find it hard to compete at the top apology from the cians, will arrive the Saturday before level when the WTA Tour resumes following the United States Olympic the tournament and test all players, Kcoronavirus pandemic, says old rival and fellow H former world number one Ana Ivanovic. and Paralympic Committee on caddies and essential personnel. Tuesday as the organisation ad- Each swab collection will take less Belgian mother-of-three Clijsters surprised the tennis dressed the protests against po- than five minutes and test results re- world when she announced lice brutality roiling the country. turned in between two and four hours. she was making a second In a letter to US athletes fol- comeback this year. lowing the death of an unarmed The 36-year-old four-time black man in Minneapolis, Grand Slam champion USOPC chief executive Sarah failed to win a match in Hirshland said she felt a “sense the two tournaments she of despair” witnessing the tu- played before the corona- multuous scenes of the last virus pandemic forced the week. suspension of the season “We absolutely condemn the — losing to Garbine Mugu- systemic inequality that dis- ruza in Dubai and Johanna proportionately impacts Black Konta in Monterrey. Americans in the United States,” “I have been watching Hirshland wrote. some of her matches and “It has no place in ours or she has been striking the ball amazingly well, but I really any other community. It is clear hope she can get back to that level to play like she used there are no forces as ugly, dam- to,” Serbia’s 2008 French Open champion Ivanovic, talk- aging and demeaning as racism ing to Eurosport’s Hanging out with Babsi, said yesterday. and marginalisation practised “Personally, I don’t think it’ll be easy after being out for so by some of those in positions of many years.” authority. Clijsters first retired in 2007, taking a break to have the “It played out in Minneapolis first of her three children, but returned within 24 months in the most tragic and uncon- The PGA Tour said that approxi- to claim three of her four Grand Slams and return to scionable way imaginable. It is mately 400 individuals will be tested world number one in 2011. being felt intensely across the on-site each week. United States day after day.” “Not only will Sanford Health’s Hirshland said the USOPC mobile laboratories enable us to de- planned to hold an “athlete liver test results in a matter of hours FOOTBALL town hall” on Friday to give US so that our athletes can properly pre- athletes the chance to “listen pare for competition, but they will to each other, learn from each also allow us to implement our test- other, and support each other.” In this September 27, 2019, picture, Gwen Berry of the US prepares to compete in the women’s Hammer ing program without utilizing critical AFC, associations “We can see that apathy and Throw heats at the 2019 IAAF World Athletics Championships at the Khalifa International Stadium. (AFP) resources from the communities in indifference are not solutions,” which we play,” Andy Levinson, PGA Hirshland wrote. “The USOPC Berry was later given a rep- mailed.. just like you and the ly misunderstood. Now I feel Tour Senior Vice President Tourna- commit to stands with those who demand rimand by the USOPC for her IOC MAILED ME WHEN YOU like everyone feels how I felt.” ment Administration, said in a state- equality and we want to work in protest and placed on proba- PUT ME ON PROBATION,” Several social media users on ment yesterday. pursuit of that goal.” tion for 12 months, with a warn- Berry said. “Stop playing with Tuesday backed Berry’s request The PGA Tour, forced into a Cov- complete 2020 But the USOPC chief’s com- ing she would face more severe me.” for an apology. id-19 hiatus mid-March, released ments rang hollow for hammer punishment if she repeated the Berry has said the sanction Matt Conly, a throwing coach a revised schedule in April with the thrower Berry, who was given protest. cost her around $50,000 in lost at Grand Valley State University first four events to be played without club competitions a dressing down by US officials The International Olympic sponsorship earnings. in Michigan, said Hirshland’s spectators, starting with the June 11- last year for protesting during Committee also warned in Jan- In an interview with Sports remarks were “empty.” 14 Charles Schwab Challenge in Fort AFC the meetings, the AFC will a medal ceremony at the Pan- uary that any athlete protesting Illustrated on Tuesday, Berry “Less than a year ago you Worth, Texas. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia present the format and the American Games in Lima. on the podium at the Tokyo Ol- said she finally felt “under- placed (Berry) under probation The other tournaments slated to be dates of the club competi- Berry, a member of the Unit- ympics would face stiff punish- stood.” for peacefully demonstrating to held without fans are the RBC Herit- tions for the final review, ed States 2016 Olympic team, ment. “When I took my stance, it bring positive attention to ra- age (June 18-21) in Hilton Head, South ompeting Mem- after which the proposal raised a clenched fist on the Responding to Hirshland’s was at a time when things were cial injustice,” Conly wrote. “I’ll Carolina, the Travelers Champion- ber Associations will be submitted to the AFC medal podium to protest racial comments on Tuesday, Berry happening, but nothing was judge you by your actions not ship (June 25-28) in Cromwell, Con- (MA) all agreed the Competitions Committee injustice after winning gold in called for an apology. being done,” she said. “When I this PR statement. Apologize necticut, and the Rocket Mortgage central principle for their approval. publically & do what is right!” C the hammer. “I want an apology letter.. took my stance, I was complete- Classic (July 2-5) in Detroit. of finding the best way to The AFC is also hold- complete the remaining AFC ing a series of online meet- Champions League season ings with the MAs involved in 2020 in two online meet- in the AFC Cup in 2020 to ings held yesterday by the agree a format to success- CAS to hear Salazar appeal in November Asian Football Confedera- fully complete that compe- tion (AFC). tition this year. Following Agencies Tuesday it would hear appeals test and has not been accused of The ban was handed to Russia The MAs representing a call on Tuesday with the Lausanne, Switzerland from Salazar and endocrinologist any wrongdoing. in December by WADA, who Australia, China PR, Japan, West Zone, there will be fur- Jeffrey Brown between Nov 8-16. ruled that RUSADA had given it Korea Republic, Malaysia and ther discussions with South, Brown, who worked for NOP RUSSIA’S BAN APPEAL IN manipulated laboratory data. Thailand in the East Zone and Central, Asean and East this he Court of Arbitration on performance enhancement NOVEMBER In January the head of the Iran, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Ara- week. for Sport (CAS) has said and served as a physician for The appeal by Russia’s anti-dop- International Olympic Commit- bia, United Arab Emirates and It was also agreed that Tit will hear banned track numerous athletes in the training ing agency against a four-year tee, Thomas Bach, said that the Uzbekistan in the West Zone while it was important to coach Alberto Salazar’s appeal program, was also banned by doping ban from international IOC and international federations also committed to agreeing a consider the commercial im- to overturn his four-year doping USADA for four years. sport has been postponed to needed a CAS ruling that “does format and timetable for the plications, the sporting integ- suspension in November. Nike Inc, which funds NOP — an November, a Court of Arbitra- not leave any room for interpre- 99 remaining games as soon rity of the competition as well American Salazar, who coached elite long-distance running tion for Sport official told AFP on tation”. as possible. as the safety and well-being some of the world’s top distance training centre in Portland under Tuesday. Should WADA’s ruling be con- Recognising the travel and of all stakeholders were also of runners including British Olympic a long-term sponsorship deal Originally scheduled for July, firmed, Russia will miss out on the medical restrictions, which the highest priority. and world champion Mo Farah, with US Track and Field — has the appeal, which pits RUSADA postponed Tokyo Olympics, the differ across the Continent, The AFC has been in regu- was banned by the US Anti-Dop- previously said it would support against the World Anti-Doping 2022 winter Games in and the AFC proposed a series of lar contact with all com- ing Agency (USADA) in October Salazar’s bid to clear his name. Olympians, including Farah, who Agency (WADA), will be held that year’s World Cup in Qatar. options for concluding the peting MAs not only on the for “orchestrating and facilitat- No NOP runner was directly im- won the 5,000 and 10,000m between November 2-5. The sanctions wouldn’t stop AFC Champions League be- club competitions but also ing” doping as head coach of the plicated in doping by USADA. golds at the London and Rio It will take place behind closed Russian athletes from taking part fore the start of the scheduled the Preliminary Joint Asian Nike Oregon Project (NOP). Salazar won three consecutive Olympics before splitting with doors at an as yet unconfirmed in competitions, but they would FIFA Club World Cup to be Qualifiers Round 2 and the Swiss-based CAS, the world’s New York City marathons from the American in 2017. location, despite WADA’s insist- have to compete under a neutral held in Qatar in December. centralised AFC U-16 and highest sports court, said on 1980 before coaching a slew of Farah has never failed a drugs ence that it be public. flag and with no national anthem. Following comments U-19 Championships and the by the representatives in AFC Futsal Championships. Gulf Times Thursday, June 4, 2020 3 CRICKET

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Sri Lanka Cricket says 3 former players Three West Indies in ICC graft probe

AFP in Sri Lanka was already il- Colombo legal, but the new rules ban Sri Lankans from gambling on overseas contests. They face up ricket’s world body to 10 years in jail and fines of up players turn down is investigating three to $555,000 for match-fixing. former Sri Lankan The new law also bans peo- Cplayers over alleged ple with family links to gam- corruption, officials said - yes bling businesses from sitting terday, in the latest scandal to on cricket’s governing body. ‘I think we have a squad that hit the sport in the country. The provision was in part Sri Lanka Cricket did not to target the former Sri Lanka will be very competitive’ name the targets of the probe Cricket president, Thilanga England tour by the International Cricket Sumathipala, who was an ex- Council Anti-Corruption ecutive committee member AFP Unit, but insisted no current even though his family owns a St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda national players were involved. gambling business. Sumath- The board was responding ipala, a businessman and poli- to media reports on comments tician, has repeatedly denied eteran batsman Darren made by Sports Minister Dul- involvement in the gambling Bravo was among three las Alahapperuma on Tuesday. side of the family business. West Indies cricketers The reports said Alahappe- A former sports minis- Vto turn down a place ruma had hinted current play- ter, Harin Fernando, had said in the squad for next month’s ers were being investigated by cricket in Sri Lanka was rid- three-Test tour of England, the ICC for match-fixing. dled with graft “from top to (CWI) an- “What the honourable min- bottom”, and that the ICC con- nounced yesterday. ister actually mentioned was sidered Sri Lanka one of the Also missing out are fellow about an investigation launched world’s most corrupt nations. batsman Shimron Hetmyer and by the ICC Anti-Corruption Former Sri Lankan fast fast-bowling all-rounder Keemo Unit against three former Sri bowler Dilhara Lokuhettige Paul. Lanka players and not the cur- was suspended in 2018 for “Darren Bravo, Shimron Het- rent national players,” the board corruption linked to a limited- myer and Keemo Paul all de- said in a statement. over league. clined the invitation to travel to The ICC said it would not He was the third Sri Lankan England for the tour and CWI comment on any active inves- charged under the ICC anti- fully respects their decision to tigation. Sri Lanka introduced corruption code, following choose to do so,” CWI said in a tough penalties for match- action against former captain statement. fixing and tightened sports and ex-chief selector Sanath “As previously stated, CWI betting restrictions in Novem- Jayasuriya, and former pace- will not hold this decision ber in a bid to stamp out graft man Nuwan Zoysa. against these players when con- that has tainted the country’s Jayasuriya was found guilty sidering future selection.” cricket team. Allegations of of failing to cooperate with a Jason Holder will skipper a corruption included claims of match-fixing probe and was 14-man squad that features two match-fixing ahead of a 2018 banned for two years. Zoysa newcomers in fast bowler Che- Test against England. was suspended for match- mar Holder (no relation) and Betting on sports events fixing. middle-order batsman Nkru- mah Bonner. The squad also includes Shai COMMENT Hope, who during the West In- dies’ 2017 Test match win at Headingley became the first batsman to score hundreds in Pitch could be both innings of a first-class match at Yorkshire’s headquar- ters. prepared in a way This year’s three back-to- back Tests, rescheduled because of the coronavirus outbreak, West Indies’ Darren Bravo plays a shot during the first (ODI) against Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) International to help maintain which the UK government says Cricket Stadium in Colombo on February 22, 2020. Veteran batsman Darren Bravo was among three West Indies cricketers to turn down a chance to has claimed at least 39,000 lives tour England to play three back-to-back Tests in July. (AFP) in Britain, will be played behind balance: Kumble closed doors. er and staff safety, CWI said. and working together for four perience, that knowledge and Blackwood, Nkrumah Bonner, But a series that will span just weeks before the first Test will belief with them and marry it to Kraigg Brathwaite, Shamarh 21 days remains subject to final UNFAMILIAR ENVIRONMENT give the squad the opportunity the enthusiasm and vitality of Brooks, John Campbell, Roston approval from the UK govern- As the health protocols will re- to get acclimatised and hope- the newcomers.” Chase, Rahkeem Cornwall, ment. The touring party, who strict movement in and out of fully, mentally and technically Going ahead with major Shane Dowrich, Chemar Holder, will all be tested for Covid-19 the venues, the selectors have adjusted to the demands of the matches is seen as vital in reduc- Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Ray- this week, are scheduled to fly to also named 11 reserve players new environment.” ing the virus’s financial impact mon Reifer, Kemar Roach. England on private charters on who will travel to train and help Harper, himself a former Test upon cricket, with the England June 8. prepare the Test squad, while off-spinner, added: “I think we and Wales Cricket Board esti- FIXTURES The West Indies squad will ensuring injury replacements have a squad that will be very mating it could lose £252 million July 8-12: 1st Test at Ageas Bowl, live, train and play in a “bio- are readily available. “The new competitive. More than half of ($316 million) if there are no fix- Southampton secure” environment during cricketing environment will take the squad were involved in the tures at all this summer. July 16-20: 2nd Test at Emirates the seven weeks of the tour, some getting used to,” said CWI victorious Test series against Old Trafford, Manchester as part of the comprehensive chief selector Roger Harper. England in the Caribbean last WEST INDIES SQUAD July 24-28: 3rd Test at Emirates medical plan to ensure play- “However, being in England year so they will bring that ex- Jason Holder (capt), Jermaine Old Trafford, Manchester.

Players must retrain brain to adopt virus measures: Hussain Playing in empty stadiums is not ideal but as part of measures to prevent spread of the difficult thing for them,” he added. up skill levels,” he told Sky Sports. “Not a bigger challenge for players during Eng- the new coronavirus. “They are used to putting saliva on a having the assistance that you might nor- land’s home series against West Indies will Hussain, 52, told Sky Sports News the cricket ball and can’t do that anymore, so mally have means your accuracy has to IANS back after two and half months be changing the way they shine the ball teams would have no choice but to create they will have to re-train the brain.” improve. “Guys will have to find another New Delhi of lockdown,” said legendary and keeping a lid on celebrations, former their own atmosphere in the empty ven- Several pace bowlers have voiced con- way to get something out of the surface, leg-spinner and former India England captain Nasser Hussain has said. ues, though other aspects of post-shut- cerns about the potential ban, which they whether that’s a bit more effort, changing captain Kumble. Subject to government approval, the down cricket would be harder to get used fear would restrict their ability to gener- angles on the crease, using the wobble he International “Especially if you are a three-Test series will take place in July to. “Some of the stuff they have trained ate swing, but England captain Joe Root seam they might not have in their locker. Cricket Council’s bowler, you need to have those behind closed doors, with the use of their brain for 10 years to do, shining a said it could make his bowlers even more “It could develop our bowlers in a four or (ICC) Cricket Com- bowling overs under your belt saliva to shine the ball likely to be banned cricket ball, celebrating a , will be accurate. “It could work in our favour and five-week period.” Tmittee Chairman Anil before you start competing. So Kumble yesterday said cricket it’s important you slowly and has an advantage over other gradually comeback to nor- sports in the sense that the malcy as much as you can. BOTTOMLINE pitch can be prepared in such a “The advantage that cricket way where bat-ball balance is has over other sports is that maintained. there is an element of an ad- The Covid-19 pandemic has justable variance in the pitch forced the ICC Cricket Com- which not many sports have. No saliva, no sweat, says Shami mittee to take the decision to “We at cricket committee ban use of saliva in their bid to believe if you want better bal- AFP sweat is not a viable replacement. restart cricket. There has been ance between bat and ball..all New Delhi “Sweat and saliva work differ- talk of allowing other artificial these years we have been very ently. I don’t think it will help. I substances to help the bowlers stringent on what to use and never tried bowling without sa- shine the ball without using what not to use on the ball..but ndia fast bowler Mohamed liva,” he said. “Now because of saliva, but that has not been to again go back and relax that Shami says he will be able to Covid-19 pandemic, it’s very im- suggested by the committee. was something that we felt at reverse-swing the ball even portant to stop using saliva.” Kumble said the commit- cricket committee we should Iif saliva is banned during the Australian ball manufacturer tee decided not to allow that not do. coronavirus pandemic. Kookaburra is developing a wax as that has been the custom “In cricket, you could man- The International Cricket applicator to shine the ball, but all along. “Our intention was age the pitch in such a way that Council (ICC) is expected to the world body is reluctant to al- to start cricket. We can’t call you could bring about a bet- next week order a temporary low artificial aids. it normal but then this is the ter balance between the bat ban on using saliva, as part of Cricket, like nearly all sport, new normal that all of us need and the ball. The idea was to measures to get the sport started was halted in March when India to get used to,” Kumble said kickstart cricket. There will be again while reducing the risk of and many other nations ordered during a webinar organised by challenges and you have to go spreading the virus. lockdowns. FICCI called Sporting Events: one game at a time,” added the Bowlers traditionally get the With the ICC due to make a Embracing the New Normal.” 49-year-old. ball to move in the air, deceiving call next week on whether the “Safety and security of Kumble opined players need the batsman, by shining one side Twenty20 World Cup will go players is a major concern and to play warm-up matches and using sweat or saliva. ahead in Australia in October- with that in mind, and based get themselves loaded before “There will be difficulties. We November, Shami said players on medical advice we believe approaching a Test match after have been accustomed to using would need at least two weeks to saliva could be the major con- such a lengthy break. saliva since childhood,” Shami prepare. tributor to carrying this dis- “Players will have to have said in an online discussion. “We are not machines, can’t ease. some sort of back up to load “If you are a fast bowler, in- just switch on and off. As a “So we banned the use of the body before playing a Test stinctively you apply saliva to sportsman, your body needs to saliva although it is second match. shine the ball. But yes, if you can get into rhythm,” he said. “No nature in cricket. That is why “It is not easy for bowlers to maintain the shine of the dry one has touched bat and ball in players will find it hard to bowl 30 overs and also tough ball, it will definitely reverse.” this period. So a 10-15 days camp manage. In training, they will for batsmen. So probably have The 29-year-old, renowned or a couple of series before the have to start slowly. It’s not a few friendly games before for his reverse swing, offered World Cup will be helpful to get just about coming back and getting into playing a Test no alternative but insisted that back the momentum.” India fast bowler Mohamed Shami. playing but also about coming match.” Gulf Times 4 Thursday, June 4, 2020 SPORT

NFL NFL, union bracing for salary cap talks

Reuters forecasted will cause a cap Los Angeles spike in 2022. Per the report, Dolphins sign former Navy standout Perry neither players nor teams want a drop in the cap and then a By Omar Kelly Perry received Marine Corps Ground as he NFL and the play- sharp spike a year or two later, Sun Sentinel a service selection, but was not commis- ers union are discuss- as it would make long-term sioned as an officer upon graduating from ing various alterna- finances and extensions for the Naval Academy. He maintained mid- tive plans regarding players difficult to plan. T Another option would be for he Miami Dolphins have signed shipman status until receiving approval of the salary cap to limit the the eighth member of the team’s his waiver request. impact of expected revenue the union to agree to giving 11-player 2020 draft class. “Obviously, I’m very happy it has losses caused by the corona- back some money this year, Former Navy standout Malcolm been approved and looking forward the virus pandemic, NFL Network which would likely come via T trimming base salaries. The Perry, who excelled as both a slotback and next step,” Perry told the Capital Gazette reported Tuesday. quarterback in Navy’s triple-option of- Newspapers. “I’m ready to focus on foot- With the expectation of limited report added it’s unclear how fense while amassing 4,359 rushing yards, ball.” Most NFL scouts envision Perry as a numbers or no fans in attend- much of a cut the league has signed his four-year contract accord- multi-faceted player capable of lining up ance at games this season would seek, or what structure ing to Jason Bernstein, his agent. in the backfield and being a threat run- — along with the spectre of po- players would accept. Perry will likely receive a $97,000 sign- ning and catching passes. The Dolphins tential cancelled games — the Both the league and NFLPA ing bonus on the four-year, $3,392,324 have listed him as a tailback, but Perry league’s revenue is expected declined comment on NFL Net- deal when the deal becomes official. admits he’s spent the most work this off- to decline, perhaps significant- work’s report. However, NFL Offensive linemen Austin Jackson, the season catching passes and working as a ly. The 2021 salary cap is based Network reported sources in- team’s second of three first-round picks, receiver. off of revenue this season, formed of the union’s thinking Robert Hunt, the Dolphins second-round Perry finished his collegiate career with making for a potentially large said the organization “would pick, and cornerback Noah Igbinoghene, 40 rushing touchdowns, which ranks decline in cap space. be amenable to negotiating the final first-round pick, are the three -re fourth in programme history. Per NFL Network, the league with the league to smooth maining Dolphins draftees unsigned. As a senior he set a Football Bowl Sub- and NFLPA know they must out the salary cap as much as Jackson, the USC standout who was division record for rushing yards by a negotiate an alternative to possible.” drafted with the 18th pick, will likely quarterback with 2,017 and scored 21 avoid a sharp drop in cap Base salaries are paid weekly receive a four-year deal that pays him touchdowns. He ran for 100 yards or more space. Negotiations have not during the season. Most other $13,640,353 million with a signing bonus in 11 of 13 games, setting another single- yet begun, and no deadline is forms of payment to players worth $7.5 million when he signs his con- season school record. being set before the start of — signing, roster and workout tract with Miami. Perry also displayed the ability to re- the regular season. There is a bonuses — have already been Igbinoghene, the Auburn standout the turn kickoffs and punts while piling up hope of reaching an agree- paid. Dolphins used the 30th pick to select, will 5,320 all-purpose yards. ment before training camps The league has continued to likely receive a four-year deal that pays He’ll likely compete with Kalen Bal- open in late July, per the plan for the season to start as him $11,254,202, and gives him a signing lage, Patrick Laird, Myles Gaskin and report. scheduled on Sept. 10, though bonus worth roughly $5.7 million. Former Navy standout Malcolm Perry. (TNS) Chandler Cox for the two of three spots The focus is currently on calcu- it is planning for alternatives. Hunt, the Louisiana-Lafayette right behind Jordan Howard and Matt Breida lating potential losses to help Some states have said they will guard/tackle taken with the 39th pick bridge, offensive guard Solomon Kindley, year. According to the Capital Gazette, on the Dolphins depth chart. But it’s pos- guide priorities. permit fans at sporting events in the second round, is slated to earn long snapper Blake Ferguson were signed Secretary of Defense Mark Esper signed sible he could spend his first NFL season Among the possibilities being with significantly reduced $8,065,742 over the first four years of his last month. Perry’s signing comes after Directive-Type Memorandum-19-011 on Miami’s practice squad while he learns considered are borrowing capacity limits. deal with a signing bonus worth $3.4 mil- the Department of Defense approved his that was titled “Military Service Academy to play a new position. But his perform- from expected future televi- The cap is set at $198.2mn for lion. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, defen- request to pursue the new professional Graduates Seeking to Participate in Pro- ance in training camp will likely determine sion deals, which many have 2020. sive linemen Raekwon Davis, Jason Strow- sports policy that was announced late last fessional Sports” and dated Nov. 8, 2019. that.

NBA COMMENT Carroll says we owe ‘tremendous amount’ League targeting to Kaepernick mid-October finish for virus-hit season ‘THE BIGGEST THING WE CAN BENEFIT FROM IS PLAYING BASKETBALL’

Reuters Kaepernick remains un- Los Angeles signed and reached a settlement with the NFL to set aside his lawsuit for collusion to keep him eattle Seahawks coach out of the league. The Seahawks Pete Carroll said it were one of the few teams who took too long for the talked contract with Kaepernick SNFL to recognise Co- during his time as a free agent. lin Kaepernick taking a stand But Kaepernick said Seattle’s when he took a knee during the interest was overblown, and he national anthem. refused to meet the team’s re- “I think that there was a mo- quest to promise not to kneel ment in time that a young man during the national anthem. captured. He took a stand on “And the whole mission of something, figuratively took a what the statement was, such a knee, but he stood up for some- beautiful,” Carroll said. “It’s still thing he believed in – and what the statement that we’re mak- an extraordinary moment it ing right today. We’re not pro- was that he was willing to take,” tecting our people. We’re not Carroll said as a guest on the looking after one another. We’re podcast of Golden State War- not making the right choices. riors coach Steve Kerr and San We’re not following the right Antonio Spurs coach Gregg process to bring people to jus- Popovich. tice when actions are taken. So I Kerr, who has been an out- think it was a big sacrifice in the spoken activist on issues of na- sense that a young man makes, tional interest, agreed whole- but those are the courageous heartedly. moments that some guys take. “To me, it’s really hard to “And we owe a tremendous look at what’s going on right amount to him for sure.” now with all the violence and “We have to go beyond and the protests and not look back act and take the action and it’s to four years ago and say, ‘Look, going to be a challenge for peo- this guy was trying to peacefully ple. I feel frustrated I’m not protest and nothing came of it,” doing enough,” Carroll said. Kerr said. “The killings went “I’m not on it enough. I can’t on and nothing changed and he get active enough to create the was actually ridiculed so it’s a change. I think we need to make The NBA is reportedly planning a 22-team format for its return to play on July 31. (Reuters) real tough one to think about.” progress, not just change.”

AFP Orlando Florida, with all teams re- started season would hurt his young Knicks’ Dolan sends employees Los Angeles maining on site to minimise risk of team. Cubs’ Ricketts defends MLB owners Covid-19 outbreaks. “The biggest thing we can ben- e-mail decrying racism The NBA’s proposal to be put be- efit from is playing basketball,” Tom Ricketts, owner of the borrowed. There’s no other he NBA is aiming to com- fore the board today requires sup- Pierce said. “If the season is going to One day after stating dear,” Dolan wrote in the Chicago Cubs, wants baseball way to do it in the short run. plete the 2020 season by port from three quarters of the resume and we are not a part of it, it that the New York Knicks Tuesday e-mail. “My point fans to know the league is In the long run, we may be mid-October, reports said league’s 30 teams in order to be ap- hurts our growth, it hurts our prod- weren’t qualified to com- yesterday was about ac- facing “biblical losses” in able to sell equity to cover Tuesday, as the league edges proved. uct, it hurts our ability to continue ment on the death of tions, and the importance 2020. some of our losses but that’s T George Floyd, team owner of living your values. At Players and owners are in ne- in the long run. Who would towards a return from the coronavi- ESPN reported there was over- the momentum that we need going rus shutdown. whelming support for the plan being to next season. James Dolan attempted to Madison Square Garden, gotiations about the financial invest at the moment?” ESPN reported that according to recommended by NBA commission- “I play young guys, I have young clarify his position. we have worked hard to split involved in a return to Ricketts supports a season in a time-frame due to be voted on by er Adam Silver. guys — we need to play basketball.” Dolan sent a second e-mail build an environment the field during the coronavi- some form or fashion, but he NBA’s Board of Governors today, One of the key issues to be set- The restart is expected to include Tuesday to employees of of inclusion and mutual rus pandemic. told ESPN that playing games Game 7 of the NBA Finals would take tled is the format of the competition a two-week quarantine for players in the Madison Square Gar- respect and those are the Ricketts told ESPN on Tues- without fans assures losing place no later than October 12. which will determine the final line- their home cities, one to two weeks den Company, the Knicks’ values that we try to live day that teams will be operat- more money. The NBA and NBA Players Asso- up for the 16-team playoffs. of workouts at team facilities fol- parent organisation, laying every day. “Racism is born ing at a loss or breaking even “Here’s something I hope ciation are still finalising the details Six teams currently just outside lowed by two-week training camps. out the firm’s opposition to of ignorance and it’s up to at best. “The scale of losses baseball fans understand,” of the resumption of the season, the playoff places will be included in The regular season was halted racism. Both e-mails were each of us to understand across the league is biblical,” Ricketts said. “Most baseball which was halted on March 11 as the the 22-team field and given the op- abruptly after Utah Jazz player Rudy seen by multiple media that the person working Ricketts said. “The timing of owners don’t take money out coronavirus pandemic erupted. portunity to claim a playoff berth. Gobert tested positive. Gobert, of outlets. beside you is your equal the work stoppage, the inabil- of their team. They raise all ESPN reported that the league is If approved, the format will bring France, was given the all-clear about “Let me be clear: We without regard to colour, ity to play was right before the revenue they can from planning a 22-team format for its an abrupt end to the season for eight two weeks later. vehemently condemn or any of the other quali- the season started. We’re tickets and media rights, and return to play on July 31. teams languishing outside the top So far, less than a dozen NBA and reject racism against ties that make us diverse. looking at 30 teams with zero they take out their expenses, All games are expected to be with- 22. players have been confirmed as test- anyone, period. It is against And any injustice to one revenue. To cover the losses, and they give all the money in the confines of Disney’s ESPN Atlanta Hawks coach Lloyd Pierce ing positive for the coronavirus al- every value that we hold person is an injustice to all teams have gone out and left to their GM to spend. Wide World of Sports Complex in said Tuesday exclusion from the re- though not all have been identified. Gulf Times Thursday, June 4, 2020 5 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Mercedes keeping options open on Vettel, says Wolff London: Formula One champi- ‘no’. You need to think about it... ons Mercedes will not rule out we have a fantastic line-up and Sebastian Vettel’s chances of I’m very happy with both our No race cancellation driving for them next year be- pilots and George (Russell at cause they may need a replace- Williams). But you never know. ment for Lewis Hamilton or One of them may decide that he Valtteri Bottas, team principal doesn’t want to go racing any Toto Wolff said yesterday. more and suddenly you have Vettel, a four times world a vacant spot and this is why I champion with Red Bull, is don’t want to come out in June if driver contracts leaving Ferrari at the end of the and say ‘no chance, Sebastian is season with his next move un- not racing for us’.” certain. Both Hamilton, 35, and Williams last week an- Finnish teammate Bottas are nounced they were considering out of contract at the end of the selling the family-run team season, which is due to start in and Wolff said Mercedes were July after being delayed by Cov- looking with interest at that coronavirus: F1 boss id-19 and could see the Briton situation and Russell’s future. equal Michael Schumacher’s “Beyond that you need to not record seven championships. discount any driver,” he added. Carey hopes to have a season with up to 18 races Wolff told reporters on a “This is why I said I don’t Zoom call that Mercedes would want to discount Sebastian as DPA look first at their own con- a four times world champion Berlin tracted drivers but needed to because who knows what hap- be prepared for anything. “It’s pens in the next months? If I not lip service,” the Austrian would have told you in January ormula One races will not be said when asked how serious that we would not have any rac- called off if a driver or team staff the interest in Vettel really was. ing in the first half of the year member tests positive for the nov- “But I think we owe it to a four nobody would have believed el coronavirus but F1 boss Chase times world champion not to it. So in that respect we are just F come out and say straight away keeping our options open.” Carey also readily admits the sport is heading into uncharted waters with next month’s delayed start into the season. F1 has released a first 2020 calendar with eight races behind closed doors in Europe, starting with a double-header in Austria on July 5 and 12, and completed with the Italian Grand Prix on September 6. What happens next is anyone’s guess, whether races can be held in Russia and the Americas where the virus is still very present, or whether Grands Prix are pos- sible in Asia, maybe even with fans. Carey reiterated on the F1 website late Tuesday that the aim remains to sal- vage the season as much as possible by having between 15 and 18 races from an original 22. The campaign was supposed to start on March 15 in Australia but the Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel is leaving Ferrari at Melbourne race was scrapped at the last the end of the season with his next move uncertain. instance after a member of the McLaren team contracted the Covid-19. With strict safety and quarantine measures now in place in the concept, SWIMMING Carey says racing can go ahead even if there are positive cases. “An individual Formula One group CEO Chase Carey. (Reuters) having been found with a positive infec- tion will not lead to a cancellation of a to finally race after a delay of almost four the start and praised F1’s detailed concept. can not be made at this time and maxi- Australia coach race,” Carey said. “We encourage teams to months. “Counting down to the start of “Organisers have presented a comprehen- mum flexibility would be needed. have procedures in place so if an individ- the 2020 F1 season,” Red Bull driver Max sive, professional security concept to pre- “We feel good about it,” he says. “We’re ual has to be put in quarantine, we have Verstappen tweeted. Racing Point’s Ser- vent infections and spreads” and therefore in uncharted waters. We certainly con- Verhaeren to step the ability to quarantine them at a hotel gio Perez said on the same social network: “teams can enter the premises to practice tinue to have a lack of visibility beyond a and to replace that individual. If a driver “Ready to get back on track! With all the their profession,” it said. Carey said that fairly short timeframe. Our goal would be has an infection, [teams have] reserve desire to start my tenth season.” “everybody wants to get back racing” but before the end of June to if not complete down in September drivers available.” World champions Mercedes — whose “in a safe way” and “with a confidence we the rest of the calendar, to have a handle Carey said the start amid the tight Lewis Hamilton is gunning for a record- have the right procedures in place to be on it. We know what we would like to try Reuters safety concept with frequent coronavi- equalling seventh world title — high- able to do it in the right way.” and do. We have other options if some Melbourne rus tests, teams with a maximum staff lighted that the campaign kicks off in the Under F1 rules, eight races would suf- things don’t come together. We do expect of 80 being brought in on charter flights home country of their motorsport chief fice to crown a world champion but Carey there are races which are on the calendar and staying in different hotels has been Toto Wolff. The Austrian health ministry said there is very much hope to have more which will probably still not occur. I think acco Verhaeren said yes- endorsed by all teams as everyone is keen had given the green light on Saturday for Grands Prix, even though proper plans we certainly have options,” Carey said. terday he will step down as head coach of Swimming JAustralia in September F1 after nearly seven years in charge of the nation’s elite programme. The Dutchman has chosen not to extend his contract and will Hamilton right to speak out on racial injustice: Ecclestone be replaced by Rohan Taylor, the head coach in Victoria and Tas- AFP against racism when he removed the mania states. London South African Grand Prix from the cal- With the Tokyo Olympics endar in 1986 due to the apartheid regime postponed to 2021 due to the bringing a slew of swimmers then in place. “I pulled the race out of Covid-19 pandemic, Verhaeren with world-leading times. ormer F1 supremo Bernie Eccle- South Africa when there was apartheid, said he had decided to head home Australia reasserted its claim stone has backed Lewis Hamilton which was wrong and disgusting,” said to the Netherlands. “I tried to as a global swimming power un- after the six-time world cham- Ecclestone “I don’t see that racism has look for ways to extend, but you der Verhaeren with seven titles Fpion spoke about his “rage” over ever gone away. People have always not can’t compromise in a high per- at the 2015 world championships racial injustice following the death of been very nice.” formance environment, nor did I in Kazan, but again stumbled on George Floyd. Ecclestone compared his South Afri- want to compromise my family,” the biggest stage, leaving the Rio The 89-year-old Englishman said can decision to when there were protests the 51-year-old, who was con- Olympics with three golds from Hamilton and other sports stars should over the Bahrain GP in 2012. The previous tracted until November, said in a 10 medals. have the freedom to air their views. year’s edition had been cancelled due to statement. Taylor, the former coach of Hamilton, the only black driver in F1, unrest in the country. Authorities cracked “I am confident that there are Australia’s triple Olympic cham- said he had been “completely overcome down on Shiite-led protests demanding many good people around to en- pion Leisel Jones, will be tasked with rage at the sight of such blatant political reform. But the Bahrain race con- sure the continued success of with converting the country’s disregard for the lives of our (black) peo- troversially went ahead in 2012. swimming in this country, and world class talent into Olympic ple” following the incident in the United Lewis Hamilton (right) with Bernie Ecclestone. (AFP) “I argued in Bahrain and supported the that the team is ready to face any gold at Tokyo. States. It was the second time he has spo- people who were complaining they had challenge.” “Jacco has laid the ground- ken out about the death of Floyd, an un- “It is a good thing that Lewis does giant, welcomed the widespread reaction been bullied or whatever,” he said. “I met The former coach of Dutch work for our Olympic campaign armed African-American who died last come out and the footballers and start to Floyd’s death. “As far as I am personal- the person who was organising the pro- champions Pieter van den Hoog- and I have worked closely with week after a police officer in Minneapolis talking and they should carry on doing ly concerned, it is a great surprise to me it tests and met with people who claimed enband and Inge de Bruijn, Ver- him and our Olympic leadership knelt on his neck. Many sports stars, in- so,” Ecclestone said by phone from his has taken so long for a black person to be to have been tortured. In this case they haeren was hired in the wake of team,” Taylor said. “So (I) be- cluding several Formula One drivers, have home in Switzerland. Ecclestone, who so brutally killed to bring sports people’s wanted to take over the country and that Australia’s flop at the 2012 Lon- lieve I am well placed to see those spoken out against racial injustice since oversaw the transformation of F1 into a attention to these things,” he said. was not the case in South Africa nor now don Olympics, where the nation plans through and lead our team the incident. global multi-billion dollar commercial Ecclestone said he had taken a stand in the US — quite the opposite.” claimed only one title despite to success in Tokyo next year.”

RUGBY ROUND-UP Ex-Springbok Habana ‘all for’ global calendar World Cup bonuses cut into

AFP expect the same from the southern hemi- sphere,” he said. “Aligning the calendars, South African rugby profit somebody has to sacrifice somewhere with the calendar and timing and all that.” onus payments for from 68mn rand to 7mn rand of Italy’s highest awards for his ormer South Africa winger and 2007 As part of the changes reports claim South Africa’s Rugby during the year. Income for the work as a front-line volunteer in Rugby World Cup winner Bryan South Africa Rugby are set to leave SAN- World Cup champions year was 1.29bn rand. the fight against the coronavi- Habana said yesterday he would ZAAR, the body which governs the sport Bmade a dent in the prof- He said the improved financial rus. President Sergio Mattarella Flike to see a global calendar intro- in the southern hemisphere, for Europe. its of SA Rugby, the organisation position had enabled SA Rugby named the back-row forward a duced for the sport. World Rugby chair- Two South African franchises, the Bloem- revealed at its annual meeting to be better prepared for the ‘Cavalieri Al merito della Repub- man Bill Beaumont said in May plans about fontein-based Cheetahs and the Southern yesterday. SA Rugby made a challenges of the Covid-19 pan- blica’, or ‘Knights of the Order of aligning fixtures in both the northern and Kings in Port Elizabeth are already part of post-tax profit of 8.5mn rand for demic in 2020, “which has had Merit of the Italian Republic’ for southern hemispheres are under way. the Pro14 league with sides from Ireland, the 2019 financial year despite the effect of tearing up all our working with a volunteer am- Habana, 36, who retired in 2017 as the Wales, Scotland and Italy. paying out 62mn rand (about approved budgetary plans”. bulance team as driver in Parma Springboks’ record try-scorer (with 67 But Habana said there were too many US$4.2mn at the prevailing ex- No rugby has been played in during the Covid-19 crisis. tries) after 124 Tests and had successful do- questions to be answered about the Spring- change rate) for the Springboks’ South Africa since March 18 and “It was unexpected news. This mestic stints at home and with Toulon in “I’m all for changing the seasons and hav- boks playing in an European competition triumph in Japan last November. there are no definite plans for a recognition fills me with pride,” France, said in an interview that he was an ing the autumn series down in the southern despite practical benefits related to similar Details of the bonuses were resumption. Roux said provision said Mbanda. “The credit goes to advocate of changing the window for inter- hemisphere and vice-versa, not that I hate time zones. “Where in the Six Nations do not disclosed but SA Rugby said had been made to cut 1.2-billion all the people who have worked national matches. the cold but the viewing experience is that they fit in? Is there now promotion and rel- in a statement that the pay- rand from the sport’s budget in hard during this period and who “I’m extremely supportive of a global sea- much better,” he said. egation? Then why can’t Japan be included outs were to “honour player 2020, which includes cuts in pay have been doing it for years in son, I’ve had the question asked a lot in the Despite his approval of the idea Habana in the Six Nations?” he said. and management performance for players and officials. silence.” The honour is awarded last while. The difficulty for me is that rugby admitted there will be teething problems “I want to say there are pros and cons commitments for winning RWC to those who have distinguished is a winter sport. Winter in the northern and as national unions, leagues and other bod- both ways, having that overnight travel, po- 2019”. ITALY FLANKER MBANDA themselves in the service to the southern hemisphere are at different times,” ies discuss the proposals. “You can’t expect tentially being able to be at home a lot more Jurie Roux, chief executive of EARNS ‘KNIGHT OF MERIT’ community, including doctors said Habana, who has helped launched the people in the northern hemisphere to give but where would we fit in the schedule is the SA Rugby, said the organisation AWARD FOR VIRUS WORK and nurses during the recent MatchKit application since ending his play- up their summer holidays over July and Au- biggest debate for me and one that will be had practised financial discipline Italian rugby international crisis which killed over 33,500 ing career. gust to watch rugby and adversely you can’t ongoing,” he said. in order to reduce its overdraft Maxime Mbanda has earned one people in Italy. Thursday, June 4, 2020 GULF TIMES SPORT

PREMIER LEAGUE MOTOR SPORT Ighalo elated by ‘dream’ Man United extension QMMF to host online

AFP London racing championship

dion Ighalo said on Tuesday for rally cars he was living the dream after his loan move to Manchester QNA week includes the qualifying OUnited was extended despite Doha stage of three races to be held on the coronavirus pandemic. The Niger- Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. ia international, a lifelong United fan, Each group will consist of sev- joined the club on loan from atar Motor and Mo- en competitors with the top six Shenhua in January due to the Coivd-19 torcycle Federation making it to the second-round situation then prevailing in China. (QMMF) will organise races, which will be played on But the virus then spread to Europe Qthe third edition of the PlayStation 4 console. and brought the Premier League season Qatar Online Racing Champion- Amro al-Hamad, QMMF Ex- to a halt in mid-March. It looked then as ship, which will be dedicated to ecutive Director, confirmed that if the 30-year-old’s career with United the World Rally Championship 8 online racing competitions are might amount to just eight games given rally category from this Sunday. receiving a great deal of atten- his original deal was due to expire on QMMF had recently held online tion from the International Fed- May 31. But ahead of the Premier League events for cars and bikes. eration in the recent period, not- season resuming on June 17, United said The deadline for registration ing that there is a program that Monday they had agreed with Shenhua to is tomorrow, with the organisers aims to transform the contest- extend Ighalo’s loan move until January. aiming for 21 participants as a ants from competing via the In- “I’m really happy. It’s a dream for me minimum and 28 contestants as ternet to take the opportunity to to be here. I’m buzzing and ready to go,” a maximum. participate actively through their Ighalo told MUTV. The competition will take racing simulations, in the event “The last few days have been difficult place over two weeks, as the first that they are able to that. as there have been different talks about it but now I’m really happy, so I need to concentrate fully. I’m here until the end of January, so it’s good for me.” The most recent of Ighalo’s four goals for United came in a Europa League match away to LASK, a fixture played be- hind closed doors as a result of coronavi- rus measures in Austria. Fixtures without spectators will be- come the norm when the Premier League resumes and Ighalo, recalling his experi- ence, said: “It was strange, you know, but it’s OK. We know there is nothing we can do now but play behind closed doors and we’re happy to do it. In the game against have to be safe so we have to do it.” Europa League quarter-finals after a 5-0 season is finished... we’re working hard LASK, it was strange because you could United have nine games left to play in win over LASK Linz in the first leg of their and I believe we’re going to do great. Eve- hear everything when your team-mates the league and are fifth on 45 points, three last-16 fixture. rybody’s looking good. Running, working shouted. In a normal game, you can’t points behind Chelsea, with the cam- “I can’t wait for the league to start hard and playing football. Little two-a- hear, but it was clear and loud. It’s a bit paign set to resume on June 17. again,” Ighalo added. “We did mention sides and doing some ball work. Everyone strange without fans, and difficult, but we They have all but sealed progress to the there could be 15-16 games left before the is getting better and better.” The online event will be played on PlayStation 4 console.

FOOTBALL MLS set for return as players union agrees new deal Los Angeles: Major League Spurs have only positive Soccer and the league’s play- ers union reached agreement on a labour deal yesterday, clearing the way for a return to play next month following the coronavirus shutdown. The MLS Players Association said test in latest virus checks the body had ratified a col- lective bargaining agreement (CBA) that would run through Players and staff at Premier League clubs were tested on Monday and Tuesday the 2025 season. “Today’s vote also finalizes AFP centre remains a safe and virus-free a plan to resume the 2020 London working environment.” season and provides players Players and staff at Premier League with certainty for the months clubs were tested on Monday and Tues- ahead,” the MLSPA said. The he Premier League’s restart day. The low number of positives is an- agreement means Major bid received a boost yesterday other encouraging sign for the Premier League Soccer will return next as it was revealed an unnamed League as it tries to finish the post- month at a tournament which person at Tottenham was the poned campaign. There have been five will be staged at a single T location at Disney World in only positive test out of 1,197 in the lat- rounds of testing, with the total of posi- est round of coronavirus checks. Tot- tive results now at 13 from 5,079 tests. Orlando, Florida. tenham confirmed the individual who Premier League players and staff are MLS Commissioner Don tested positive is from the north London tested twice a week as the league aims to Garber said on a video-confer- club, but did not say if it was a player or resume on June 17 following its suspen- ence call with reporters that member of staff. The person must now sion in March because of the pandemic. the league was expected to self-isolate for a period of seven days. “The Premier League can today con- suffer a $1bn revenue hit from “We have been informed by the Pre- firm that on Monday 1 June and Tues- the Covid-19 pandemic. He mier League that we have received one day 2 June, 1,197 players and club staff said the league’s decision to positive test for Covid-19 following the were tested for Covid-19. Of these, one restart at a neutral venue had latest round of testing at our training has tested positive,” a Premier League arisen from a determination to centre,” Tottenham said in a statement. statement read. resume competition as soon “Due to medical confidentiality, the While the low test results are wel- as possible. individual’s name will not be disclosed. come, if it was a Tottenham player “The uncertainty forced us They are currently asymptomatic and who has the virus they could miss their to come up with a plan that at will now self-isolate for seven days, club’s first game of the restart against A general view of the entrance to the Tottenham Hotspur training ground in London. (Reuters) least allows us to get us back in line with Premier League protocol, Manchester United, likely to be played in front of our fans,” Garber before undergoing further testing. We on the weekend of June 20-21. Although a player would be able to having after had no contact with the Mariappa and Burnley assistant man- said. “Clearly given our ab- shall continue to strictly adhere to the The minimum period of time before resume individual work away from squad for a fortnight prior to the game. ager Ian Woan are among the Premier sence from the sports scene, it Premier League’s Return to Training returning to group training after con- their team-mates after eight days, it is Bournemouth goalkeeper Aaron League figures to have tested positive was crucial for us to get back.” protocol, which ensures our training tracting the virus is two weeks. unlikely they would feature in a match Ramsdale, Watford defender Adrian since the checks started.

FOCUS ROUND-UP beIN Sports bags broadcast rights No sanctions for Sancho for Floyd protests undesliga players including Jadon Football Association Board. Irene Lozano has said. The health ministry for NTT INDYCAR Series Sancho who staged protests during is examining the risks of fans attending matches following the death of SIMEONE’S ASSISTANT BURGOS matches in regions where there was a low eIN Media Group, the latest thrilling acquisition, BAmerican man George Floyd will TO LEAVE ATLETICO risk of infection after Las Palmas presi- global sports and en- Jonathan Whitehead, Head of not be punished, the German Football Fed- Diego Simeone’s long-time assistant Ger- dent Miguel Angel Ramirez said he hoped tertainment group, and Sports for beIN MENA, said: eration said. In a statement, the DFB said man Burgos confirmed he will leave Atletico spectators could attend his side’s matches bINDYCAR announced a “As live sport return across the “no action” would be taken against Borus- Madrid at the end of the season to pursue a in the Canary Islands where the virus is multi-year media rights agree- world, beIN is delighted to be at sia Dortmund players Sancho and Achraf career as a head coach. Known for his tough less prevalent. But Lozano said that would ment which will see beIN Sports the heart of all the action, hav- Hakini, Schalke’s US midfielder Weston approach and imposing demeanour, Burgos’ create an unfair advantage as some teams exclusively broadcast the NTT ing secured the media rights to McKennie and Borussia Moenchenglad- departure will be keenly felt by Simeone, would be backed by supporters while others INDYCAR SERIES 2020 and the NTT INDYCAR Series for bach’s French forward Marcus Thuram for whose own position at Atletico has come in regions with a higher risk of infection 2021 across 24 territories in the the next two seasons in 24 terri- “their symbols of solidarity”. under scrutiny in recent years. would have to play their home matches Middle East and North Africa charged, direct-injected V-6 en- tories across Mena. beIN Sports After scoring in Dortmund’s win at Pad- After leading the team to a momen- without spectators. (Mena). gine optimized to run at 12,000 will exclusively broadcast these erborn on Sunday England winger Sancho tous La Liga triumph in 2014, Atleti have Founded in 1994, INDYCAR RPM with an estimated 500-700 thrilling races to its fans and sub- lifted his shirt to reveal the message “Justice finished more than 10 points behind TRABZONSPOR GIVEN ONE-YEAR serves as the sanctioning body horsepower engine. New for this scribers in the region, demon- for George Floyd”. Floyd’s death after a champions Barcelona in each of the last EUROPEAN BAN OVER FINANCES for the NTT INDYCAR Series and season is the Aeroscreen, a safety strating our commitment to be- policeman kneeled on his neck for several two seasons. This term, they sit sixth in the Turkish club Trabzonspor have been given a offers its international line-up of innovation for enhanced driver coming the leading global sport minutes has sparked eight days of protests table, albeit having knocked Liverpool out one-season ban from European football af- drivers such as Scott Dixon (five- cockpit protection. Mandated and entertainment network.” in the US cities. of the Champions League last 16 in March. ter falling foul of the break-even rule known time championship winner) and by INDYCAR, the safety feature The NTT INDYCAR Series Hakimi and McKennie expressed similar The charismatic Burgos followed Simeone as financial fair play (FFP). UEFA said in Josef Newgarden (reigning se- is a ballistic, canopy-like wind- joins beIN SPORTS’ long list calls for justice, while Frenchman Thuram, when he took charge of Atletico in 2011 after a statement that Trabzonspor had failed ries champion) the most diverse screen anchored by titanium of premium sports rights, from the son of World Cup winner Lilian the pair had previously worked together at to meet the conditions of a settlement challenges in motorsports. framework encompassing the the UEFA Champions League to Thuram, took a knee after scoring for Glad- Argentinian club Racing. agreement it reached with the European The NTT INDYCAR Series cockpit. the English Premier League and bach in memory of Floyd, echoing similar soccer body in 2016, when it was found to is considered to race faster and The first NTT INDYCAR Series other world-renowned competi- protests against police brutality started by FANS WON’T RETURN TO have breached the rules. It said that the ban closer than any other form of 2020 race broadcast exclusively tions, with many re-starting this NFL player Colin Kaepernick in 2016. SPANISH STADIUMS FOR NOW: would be applied if the club qualified for motorsports – featuring a mar- on beIN Sports HD7, the Genesys summer after the coronavirus On Tuesday, FIFA chief Gianni Infan- JUNIOR SPORTS MINISTER European soccer next season or in 2021-22, gin of victory less than one sec- 300, is set to take place this Sun- crisis. tino said that players demanding justice Fans will not be able to attend Spanish but it would not be implemented after that. ond and speeds of up to 240mph. day, June 7th at the Texas Motor beIN entertains and operates for Floyd, should be applauded. The DFB matches when the season resumes after AC Milan and Manchester City have been Drivers of the NTT INDYCAR Speedway at 3pm live and with in 43 countries globally, includ- had launched their investigation into the being disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic barred from European football for breaking Series drive single-seat cars that Arabic and English commentary. ing 24 countries across the Mena players’ tributes following guidelines from on June 10 for sporting reasons rather than the rules, although the latter have appealed feature a 2.2-litre, twin turbo- Commenting on beIN Sports’ region. the sport’s lawmakers, the International safety concerns, junior sports minister to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.