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FOCUS Moving Olympics possible, too soon to decide on World Athletics chief admits ensuring a level playing field for athletes during cancellation: Coe preparations may not be possible Tokyo organisers receive fl ame for troubled Olympics in low-key aff air

Greek Sports Minister and Olympic Committee President Spyros Capralos (left) hands the Olympic torch over to former Japanese swimmer Naoko Imoto in Athens, Greece, yesterday. (Reuters)

Reuters ity horseshoe-shaped marble Athens, Greece stadium. The flame was then transferred into a small receptacle to travel okyo 2020 organisers to Japan aboard a special air- Treceived the Olympic craft named “Tokyo 2020 Go.” flame in a scaled-down Only a few dozen off icials were handover ceremony in the allowed into the central Athens Greek capital yesterday, amid stadium as the country has Reuters Europe has become the new we can to drill down on that. the coronavirus spread that imposed strict measures to London, United Kingdom epicentre of the fl u-like virus “Some are not able to train has cast doubt on the global, contain the spread of the virus. that originated in China late last properly, some are not able to ac- multi-billion dollar event. The eerie mood during the year and restrictions on move- cess public tracks or indoor facil- In a brief ceremony closed to ceremony, which normally at- orld Athletics chief ment in several nations have hit ities and we’re working to try and spectators in Athens’ Panath- tracts thousands of Athenians Sebastian Coe the training plans of athletes help them fi nd these facilities.” enaic stadium, site of the first and visitors, reflected the Wsaid yesterday that ahead of Games. The virus has infected nearly modern Games in 1896, the problems facing Tokyo 2020, moving the 2020 IOC president Thomas Bach 219,000 people globally and torch was received by Tokyo with athletes and national Tokyo Olympics to September or said they heard athletes’ con- caused more than 8,900 deaths Games representative Naoko Olympic committees question- October due to the coronavirus cerns on health and preparation so far, sparking concerns over the Imoto. ing whether the Games should outbreak was a possibility but it but Coe said ensuring a level viability of the Games. It will arrive in Japan today be held this year. was too soon to take a decision on playing fi eld for athletes during Coe, the driving force behind and kick off a domestic relay Despite the IOC’s commitment whether to cancel the Games. preparations may not be possible the success of London 2012 as on March 26, with the Games to the Games, several athletes While most of world sport has but it is a challenge World Ath- chairman of the organising com- set to take place from July have cast doubt on the quality come to a standstill due to the letics will strive to overcome. mittee, said the problem faced by 24-August 9. of competitions in Tokyo, given pandemic, the International Ol- “Recent evidence suggests the Tokyo Games was bigger than A six-day torch relay through that thousands cannot train at ympic Committee (IOC) has re- China seems to be pulling out of the mass boycott of the 1980 Greece was cancelled last the moment due to restrictions mained committed to staging the this but if you’re living in Europe, Moscow Olympics. week, with the country largely placed upon them in many Tokyo Games as planned from you’re an Italian distance run- “I lived through Moscow and in lockdown having recorded countries. July 24-August 9 despite grow- In this September 26, 2019, picture, IAAF president Sebastian Coe ner and you’re confi ned to your that was a crisis... This has prob- 418 cases of the virus and five Tokyo Games chief Yoshiro ing dissent. speaks at a press conference at Khalifa International Stadium in Doha, house, that’s a massive chal- ably exercised more thinking deaths. Mori said in a video message “Let’s not make a precipitous Qatar. (USA TODAY Sports) lenge,” Coe told The Times in an time and expended more eff ort The scale of the spreading he hoped the flame’s arrival decision when we don’t have to earlier interview. for federations than anything I coronavirus, which has infect- would help lift Japan’s spirits. four months out,” Coe told BBC moved to September or October. have but there is not a great deal “Our sport has always been can remember,” Coe added. ed more than 200,000 people “Tokyo 2020 commits to be Sport. “Events are changing by the of information. about fairness and a level playing “We’re doing everything we and killed more than 8,700 in readiness for the Games as “If you had to ease that date, hour but it is not a decision that “The temperature in the room fi eld so we shouldn’t feel ashamed possibly can to get our sport and across the world, has forced planned...,” Mori said. “The con- you’d have to ease it. It’s possible, has to be made at the moment. with the IOC is, nobody is saying to set that as our ambition. The re- our athletes into the best possible the cancellation of numer- cept of the Tokyo relay is ‘Hope anything is possible,” he added We’re trying to manage the situ- we’re going to the Games come ality is that may not be possible in shape through a challenging time ous sporting events, raising lights our way’. I hope that the when asked if the Games could be ation with the information we what may.” every case but we want to do what and get to an Olympic Games.” concerns about whether the light will shine on the hearts of Olympics will be able to open people all over in Japan and that as planned. will shake off the dark clouds The International Olympic hanging over the earth.” JOC board member says Olympics should be postponed: Nikkei Committee (IOC) and the Japa- The plane carrying the flame nese government, however, will land at JASDF Matsushima Reuters because of the coronavirus sive cancellations of sporting letes at risk. Off icials at the JOC were not im- have insisted the Games will Air Base in Miyagi Prefecture Nikkei Tokyo, Japan pandemic, the newspaper events and qualifiers has raised She said that she plans to raise mediately available for comment. go ahead and have publicly today. reported yesterday. questions over the plans, includ- this at a JOC board meeting One IOC member has called rejected any talk of cancella- The domestic relay will start The International Olympic Com- ing among athletes. scheduled for March 27. the group “irresponsible” for tion or postponement. from Fukushima Prefecture, apan Olympic Commit- mittee (IOC) and Tokyo 2020 Yamaguchi, who won a judo “As far as I can see in news from insisting on holding the Games Greece’s Olympic Committee site of the 2011 earthquake Jtee board member Kaori organisers have repeatedly bronze medal at the Seoul the United States and Europe, as scheduled, while several ath- chief Spyros Capralos handed and tsunami, and will last for Yamaguchi has said the said that the Tokyo Games, due Games in 1988, was quoted by athletes aren’t in a position letes have said the IOC decision over the lit torch to the Japa- 121 days. It is planned to end at Tokyo Olympics should be to start on July 24, will run as the paper as saying that the where they can continue their puts athletes’ health at risk. nese former Olympic swimmer the Games’ opening ceremony postponed because athletes are scheduled. However, the spread IOC’s insistence on holding the training as usual,” she was The Tokyo Olympics are due to Imoto in front of empty stands with the lighting of the Olym- unable to prepare adequately of the coronavirus and succes- Games as scheduled will put ath- quoted as saying. run from July 24 to August 9. inside the vast 50,000-capac- pic cauldron. Gulf Times 2 Friday, March 20, 2020 SPORT

FOCUS COMMENT Holding Tokyo Games as scheduled Athletes still setting is a disservice to the world: Wickenheiser

Reuters to people in the world fi rst of all, sights on Tokyo and then athletes secondly who Moscow, Russia are trying to prepare,” Wicken- heiser told Reuters from self- ix-time Olympian Hayley isolation in Toronto. Wickenheiser said that “Humanity fi rst, and sport al- Sholding this year’s Ol- ways follows.” ympics as planned in July Wickenheiser, winner of four despite virus: Olsson and August would be a disservice Olympic gold medals, said ath- to athletes and the general popu- letes around the world will not lation considering the coronavi- be prepared to compete in the ‘As an athlete, focus is like a laser beam on (a big season)... but there are more factors’ rus pandemic is sweeping around Olympics because lockdowns, the world. self-isolation measures and glo- The virus has brought global bal travel restrictions are derail- sport to a virtual standstill, with ing their training plans and pre- major events being postponed Olympic competitions. or cancelled as cases of the virus “If you are going to the Olym- grow. pics… you want to go there in But organisers of the Tokyo the best frame of mind possible Olympics have repeatedly said knowing that you were able to do the Games, scheduled to take all the training that you could,” place from July 24 to August 9, she said. “A lot of athletes are not will go ahead as planned despite going to have that chance.” the rapid spread of the virus. Wickenheiser, who is a mem- Wickenheiser, who represent- ber of the International Olympic ed Canada at fi ve Winter Games Committee’s athlete commis- in ice hockey and the 2000 Sum- sion, has nearly completed her mer Olympics in softball, said studies to become a doctor and the Olympic movement should witnessed fi rsthand Canada’s ef- be showing “more compassion forts to contain the virus. and empathy” for the struggles “I have been on the frontline. people are expiring because of I have seen how this virus is the virus, ranging from job losses spreading,” she said. “To be talk- to confi nement at home. ing about how we are going to “I just feel that the insistence quarantine the Athlete’s Village that the Games are going to hap- (at the Olympics), it just doesn’t pen in July is doing a disservice sit right with me at the moment.”

In this February 23, 2014, picture, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach (left) welcomes Canada’s Hayley Wickenheiser to the IOC session on the final day of the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games. (Reuters)

British Olympic chiefs issue In this February 8, 2020, picture, France’s Armand Duplantis clears the bar to set the then world pole vault record of 6.17 metres at the Orlen Copernicus Cup 2020 in Torun, Poland. Duplantis’ manager Christian Olsson has revealed that the 20-year-old continues to train in the US for the Tokyo Olympics. (AFP) virus vow over Tokyo Games AFP The BOA support the IOC’s Reuters vaulting sensation Armand Du- breaking the world record ear- tainty is bound to have an aff ect from Great Britain, Germany London, United Kingdom decision-making process but Stockholm, Sweden plantis. lier this year, is back in America, on athletes who have their sights and Qatar. said: “We can be categorically “If you ask me today, I’d say where he was born to a Swed- set on Tokyo. “I think many of them have clear that we will not endanger with the information fl ow that ish mother and an American “As an athlete you’re usually concerns about it, they’re get- ritish Olympic Asso- the health and well-being of thletes are still do- we’re getting and all the infor- father, and is still training as if in a situation where you have ting the same information fl ow Bciation chiefs insist they the athletes or wider delega- ing their best to train mation that we have, I would the Games will go ahead, Olsson a huge focus for the season — from media as we do, they see will not “endanger the tion at any point. Afor the Tokyo Olym- say that it’s very doubtful that revealed. the Olympic Games, the World other sports events are being health” of athletes by encour- “It is imperative to preserve pics but it is looking the Olympic games would take “He’s back in the States in Championship, the European cancelled or postponed, but I aging them to prepare for competitive integrity for increasingly unlikely that the place in Tokyo,” he said in an in- Louisiana, training pretty much Championships — and your fo- guess, having been an athlete Tokyo 2020 if the coronavirus athletes, but it is clearly only Games will take place as the terview. as he should be, normal practic- cus is like a laser beam on that. myself, they know that every- makes it unsafe. wise for athletes to continue to coronavirus continues to spread “Hopefully, if the IOC and es. You can already train outside Now it’s still going to be the fo- body has the same situation, so Guy Learmonth, hoping to be prepare for the Games where around the world, former Olym- the Swedish Olympic commit- there, so he’s not doing any- cus, but there are more factors if the Olympic Games take place, picked in the 800m, this week it is safe and appropriate to do pic champion Christian Olsson, tee and other people like the thing that he shouldn’t be. They that are a part of it, and that I it’s the athletes who will handle became the first British athlete so, within relevant Government who is now a sports agent, has Tokyo organising committee can be by themselves... just a think is going to aff ect all the it the best, who will do the best to warn that the risks of going and public health guidelines.” told Reuters. have more information and are few days ago you could see him athletes,” Olsson said. with the situation. to Tokyo are too high in the Off icials from the BOA and Brit- Olsson won gold in the triple maybe seeing more signs that posting something on Insta- Together with his partners at “But of course, it’s going to circumstances. ish sports federations returned jump at the Athens Games in we are heading in a more posi- gram,” he said. JRS Sports Management, Olsson aff ect them. There’s so much Athletes’ frustration was not from Tokyo this week following 2004 and since hanging up his tive direction, then they will also looks after the careers of around you, people getting sick, reserved for the British, with a series of venue and athletes’ spikes in 2012 he has moved into take place, but I would say no at UNCERTAINTY a number of Olympic hopefuls businesses struggling, restau- Olympic pole vault champion village visits, and reported that management. He now looks af- the moment.” With the competitive calendar such as Norway’s middle-dis- rants, hotels, everything, so Katerina Stefanidi also blasting preparations appeared to be ter a thriving stable of track and Duplantis, who set the track almost entirely wiped out for tance running trio of Ingebrigt- you’re being reminded of that on the IOC. on track. fi eld athletes, including pole- and fi eld world alight by twice the coming months, the uncer- sen brothers, along with athletes a daily basis,” Olsson said.

SPOTLIGHT As Games face risk, Tokyo fl ags chief hoists standard for perfection

Reuters year’s event. of the World War II less than 20 Tokyo, Japan “I think by the end of March, years earlier on its way to become we have to decide whether to stop a major economic power. or continue preparations for the “It was really exciting. Nine- t 79, Tadamasa Fukiura Olympics,” Fukiura told Reuters teen years after losing the war, has never lost his boy- in an interview. Japanese people concentrated on Ahood love of fl ags. But Despite the coronavirus out- the Olympics,” he said. now the man in charge break, fl ag manufacturing plants But Fukiura said organising of supplying more than 10,000 of in Japan are currently up and fl ags for this year’s Games was them for Tokyo’s 2020 Olympics running to meet their own May as nerve-wrecking as in 1964, has a fl ag obsession of a diff erent deadline, Fukiura said. involving twice as many partici- stripe — whether the Games will Currently an advisor for the pating nations and sports event go ahead. Tokyo Organizing Committee as well as major corporate spon- Doubts are mounting around of the Olympic and Paralympic sors. A fear of mistakes, like fl ags the world that the Olympics Games, Fukiura describes his being hoisted upside down, never can proceed as planned amid passion as an “addiction” and lit- leaves him. the coronavirus pandemic, with erally wrote the book on fl ags of He also knows what it feels like countries in all continents im- the world when he was a 22-year- to be haunted by the prospect of plementing drastic social and old college student at Waseda a cancellation, recalling the eve travel lockdowns. Still, Tokyo University supervising displays of the opening of ceremony when Games and Japanese government at the 1964 Olympics. sudden heavy rains threatened offi cials insist the event will go At the time, there was no offi cial the historic moment. ahead as scheduled. policy on what shade of red Japan’s “I was preparing for the open- For Fukiura, whose lifelong fl ag should have. After reviewing ing ceremony for two and a half fascination saw him asked to su- 2,000 lipstick colours from cos- years. I thought to myself, this pervise displays at Tokyo’s 1964 metics maker Shiseido, he select- rain would cancel the event,” said Games, a call needs to be made, ed the shade that would become Fukiura. and soon, on whether to proceed standard for the national fl ag. But that rain melted away, giv- with meticulous preparations for Fukiura said 1964 was a defi n- ing way to glorious sunshine, and over 10,000 fl ags representing ing moment of national unity for the spectacle of fl ags saluting the Tadamasa Fukiura is the flag supervisor and consultant for Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games organisers. (Reuters) nations around the world at this Japan, then rising from the ashes world, just as he had planned. Gulf Times Friday, March 20, 2020 3 SPORT

CRICKET FOCUS Fate of IPL can be decided aft er April Would love to be in 15, says minister

IANS for the sports bodies or sport- New Delhi spersons it is for every citizen of the country,” he said. The BCCI earlier put the he Sports Ministry has IPL on hold till April 15 even quarantine with made it clear that the though the tournament was Tfate of the 13th edition set to start from March 29 after of the Indian Premier the government issued a travel ‘He is one of my League can be decided only advisory which made it clear after the government comes that foreign players wouldn’t favourite people out with a fresh advisory after be issued visas to come into April 15, keeping in mind the the country. This was done in in the world’ situation with regards to the a meeting on March 11. de Kock: Steyn coronavirus outbreak. The Sports Ministry on Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju March 12 made it clear that all reiterated that while it is the sporting events should be can- Board of Control for Cricket in celled in the wake of the coro- India (BCCI) which decides on navirus outbreak. And if it is South Africa pacer Dale Steyn (right) cricketing matters, the pan- unavoidable, the events should and Quinton de Kock. (AFP) demic is something which has be held behind closed doors so a direct eff ect on the loves of as to avoid mass gatherings. the citizens of the country. The Delhi government went “After April 15 the govern- a step further and said that ment will come up with new there would be no IPL match- advisory and guidelines ac- es in the national capital till cording to the situation. BCCI March 31. is a body that looks after BCCI President Sourav cricket which is not an Ol- Ganguly also informed the ympic sport. But here it is not media after the meeting with the question of the sporting IPL franchise owners last event alone but a question of Saturday at the BCCI HQ in the safety of the citizens. In an Mumbai that all calls would be event there will be thousands taken keeping in mind the ad- of spectators. So it is not just visory from the government.

Injury forces Wade to pull pin on Somerset

Big-hitting Australian batsman challenge of playing county Matthew Wade IANS wicketkeeper-batsman watches. 1992, ’96, ’99 – I love those because in a country like South all around, the right-arm pacer yesterday cricket... but after discussions Johannesburg “He is one of my favourite World Cups. “And even the one Africa, where we have all of our said he has avoided stockpiling abandoned plans to play with with the cricket Australia medi- people in the world. If you walk in South Africa (2003) because problems from the past – cul- essentials like many others as it’s English county side Somerset cal team, regrettably, it became into his (hotel) room, he’s either that’s when I really started to get ture, religion, ethnic back- unfair to do so in a crisis. after being advised to rest an clear that I wouldn’t be in a eteran South Africa making fl ies for fi shing or he is into guys like Brett Lee, because I grounds – the one thing that “It just seems like it is the injured knee. The 32-year-old position to join Somerset.” pacer Dale Steyn has watching a fi shing video or he is knew the possibility of me play- brings everybody together is only topic of conversation. Any had been scheduled to pad-up The county season is due to Vsaid that, given an op- watching a cooking video. And ing against them or meeting sport,” said Steyn WhatsApp groups that I’m part for the first half of the English start on April 12, but the coro- tion, he “would love to when you are at his house, he’s them was so much closer than “But now at the moment, you of, it’s really tough to escape. summer, but said cricket navirus epidemic may force it be in quarantine” with Quinton doing the same stuff . what it was in, say, ’92, when I don’t have that. In South Af- Normally if I am on holiday I’ll Australia had told to him to to be postponed. de Kock. The entire world is cur- “I hate cooking, so it would fi rst got introduced to the game,” rica, we kind of like looking for be planning a fi shing trip or a recuperate. “It’s a big blow,” The BBC said the England and rently battling with the corona- be great if he was because then I he added. things that unite people in big, surfi ng trip. At the moment I said Wade, who is a regular in Wales cricket Board were due virus pandemic, which has so far could watch all the fi shing videos The 36-year-old, who is chill- big groups. When you don’t have am just chilling at home,” Steyn the Australian Test team. to meet yesterday to discuss claimed close to 9,000 lives. that he’s watching, I could help ing at home following his return sport, it’s like, oh, what do we said. “I was looking forward to the the situation. “I would love to be in quaran- him do all the tying, and he could from Pakistan where he was fall back onto? “We were under that kind tine with someone like Quinny cook all the food. He’s a proper playing in the Pakistan Super “And I think Nelson Mandela of hotel arrest – advised not to de Kock,” Steyn told ESPN- cook,” he added. League (PSL), said it’s a pity that was the fi rst person to really say go out and wander the streets, cricinfo. When asked which matches sporting events are being can- that: sport unites people in a which is totally fi ne; I don’t Expaning his choice, Steyn from the past he would watch celled en masse due to the crisis way that nothing else does. And want to break protocol and said de Kock is a ‘proper cook’ while on the isolation period, as “if you take sport away, then I if you take sport away, then I (have) something happen and be and staying with the current Steyn said: “I would probably don’t know really what we have.” don’t know really what we have. blamed for cricket never being Proteas skipper would allow him say that they should put every “It is actually such a pity that We’re going to have to work it all played in Pakistan again because to watch all the fi shing videos the World Cup up until ’99 on. So everything is being blocked off , out,” he added. Despite the panic I did something stupid.”

SPOTLIGHT R&A hoping to conduct The Open and women’s British Open in Sachin compares Covid-19 July-August Golf’s governing body the R&A said yesterday that they are hoping The Open and the women’s British Open, to ANNOUNCEMENT battle to Test cricket be held in July and August AFP respectively, will go ahead as New Delhi planned after the coronavirus outbreak brought world sport Major League Rugby to a standstill. ndian legend Sachin Tendulkar has of- The 149th Open Champion- fered an unusual take on the coronavi- ship at Royal St George’s Golf cancels remainder Irus fi ght by comparing it to Test cricket, Course is due to be played urging patience and teamwork, and from July 16-19 while the warning “we have to defend well”. women’s British Open at Royal of 2020 campaign “While the world battles the Covid-19 Troon is scheduled for Aug. 20- pandemic, this is probably the time for of us 23. The year’s first two majors – AFP risks for all parties.” Killebrew to draw lessons from the grand old format of the Masters (April 9-12) and the Washington vowed the league would return the game,” Tendulkar wrote in a commen- PGA Championship (May 14-17) next year. tary for The Times of India newspaper. – have already been postponed “I want to ensure our fans The world record-holding batsman said due to the outbreak along with ajor League Rugby, that there is no doubt MLR will the virus was “beyond our collective com- several European Tour events. the 12-team North be back in 2021 and will emerge prehension” but could be beaten with tactics “We have some time before we MAmerican circuit bigger and better than ever be- used in cricket’s fi ve-day format. start building the infrastruc- that had started its fore,” he said. “We will be us- “Test cricket rewards you for respecting ture at both venues and so third season, announced yes- ing this time as an opportunity what you don’t understand. It makes you we are keeping the scheduled terday that it will cancel the to grow all aspects of MLR and value the virtue of patience,” he wrote. dates in place for The Open remainder of the 2020 cam- we’re excited to continue this “When you don’t understand the pitch and Women’s British Open at paign due to the coronavirus journey into 2021 and for many conditions or the bowler, defence becomes this point,” R&A chief execu- outbreak. years to come.” the best form of attack. Patience is what we tive Martin Slumbers said in a Health and safety guidelines The league grew from seven require now, if we have to defend well.” statement. from the US Centers for Dis- to nine teams from its 2018 India has reported only three virus deaths “We recognise that this is a rap- ease Control and Prevention debut to 2019 and added three and 169 cases but the country is increasingly idly changing situation and we have banned large gatherings more clubs in 2020 with At- fearful of the spread of the disease that has will keep everyone informed of to combat the Covid-19 crisis. lanta, Washington and New killed nearly 9,000 people around the world. any changes to our plans. A week after issuing a 30-day England joining. Like many countries, it has imposed draco- “These are diff icult times but pause to the regular season, When the season was nian travel restrictions. we are bearing in mind our the rugby union league decid- halted, the San Diego Legion Tendulkar, 46, retired in 2013 after scor- responsibility for what’s right ed to shut down any attempt topped the table at 5-0 on 23 ing 15,921 runs from 200 Tests, and has con- for golf and most importantly to restart the season and begin points followed by Toronto at siderable infl uence in Indian society. He said for society.” However, the R&A preparing for 2021. 4-1 on 19 points and Old Glory all countries must work together against the cancelled two international “I am saddened to announce DC at 4-1 with 17 points. virus. A man wearing a facemask as a preventive measure against the Covid-19 coronavirus amateur events – the Student that the remainder of the 2020 MLR also began adding “To use a cricketing metaphor; while in- walks past a mural of former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar in Mumbai yesterday. (AFP) Tour Series Final at St Andrews season is cancelled,” MLR more top names from over- dividual brilliance can help a team in short- and Carnoustie and girls’ Un- commissioner George Kille- seas, notably prop Tendai er formats of the game, in Test cricket it is There is always a second innings, if you’ve “All nations should consider themselves der-16 Amateur Championship brew said. “The Beast” Mtawarira, who all about partnerships and teamwork,” he missed the fi rst one.” “Diff erent countries part of one team.” “We shall take this battle at Fulford – which were set to “We believe it is ultimately sparked South Africa to the said. are at diff erent stages of their fight against session by session, and eventually emerge be played next month. the correct decision as we 2019 Rugby World Cup title “Test cricket is about staging comebacks. coronavirus,” he added. victorious.” factored in health and safety before joining Old Glory. Gulf Times 4 Friday, March 20, 2020 SPORT

INTERVIEW ‘Asian golfers could lose out if Olympics go ahead’

AFP across the continent had been Asian Tour players eligible for to happen. “I can understand are comfortable,” Cho said. “I have a lot harder time resched- Hong Kong suspended until at least the end the Olympics.” why they would want to push feel for the guys who just came uling events. Theirs is a very of May, in line with the US PGA OLYMPICS ‘HIGHLY forward with the Olympics – through qualifying school and short golf season,” Cho said. and European Tours. UNLIKELY’ there’d be huge revenue ramifi - they’ve probably played one or “I’m hoping that we can con- he Olympics going ahead “I think everyone right now On current rankings, only cations on the economy of Japan two events in their life. tinue golf this year, whether it in Tokyo this year is is more in a state of shock, just Thailand’s Jazz Janewattana- – but it seems highly unlikely “It’s very diff erent to having a be July, September, October or T“highly unlikely”, the trying to fi gure out what they nond and Gunn Charoenkul, now in my opinion.” bad season where you’re miss- November. It will defi nitely help boss of Asian golf told do with themselves,” said Cho, the Indian pair of Rashid Khan Cho said that he hadn’t yet ing cuts, but you still have got mitigate the potential down- AFP, and proceeding as planned speaking by telephone from and Udayan Mane plus Miguel heard of any players suff ering the opportunity to compete. side. could cost players the chance to Asian Tour headquarters in Sin- Tabuena of the Philippines fi nancial hardship but acknowl- “Right now you’re deprived “If we could start between qualify. gapore. With the prospect of would represent the Asian Tour edged that a long layoff could of the opportunity to compete. July and October, it means we The International Olympic scarcely any competitive golf in the 60-strong Tokyo fi eld. have an impact. That’s a whole diff erent ball- will probably go through to Committee said this week it before the Olympic rankings “Given the amount of golf Players such as the world game.” April. We’ve been planning was “fully committed” to hold- qualifying cut-off on June 22, that was left to be played, we number 39 Jazz, last year’s a wraparound season for the ing the Games from July 24 de- Cho said it would be harsh on were hopeful that more players Asian Tour order of merit win- CALENDAR SHIFT longest time but never really spite the coronavirus pandemic, players from unheralded golf from nations like Bangladesh, ner, will remain in the US where The Asian Tour can play all-year formalised it. but acknowledged there was nations. Malaysia, Indonesia and the he had been due to play a full round, which means the crisis “We’re talking to sponsors no “ideal” solution as pressure “Our plan initially was to Philippines would have the op- schedule before a debut at the could lead to a permanent shift and promoters. They’re defi - mounted for a postponement. have about 16 or 17 tournaments portunity to get into the Olym- now-postponed US Masters in the Asian golfi ng calendar to a nitely ready to go. They’re pre- Asian Tour Commissioner before the Olympic cut-off ,” pics over the next two or three next month. wraparound season played from pared to stage events whenever and CEO Cho Minn Thant con- Cho said. “Today, we prob- months,” said Cho. “I keep in contact with quite September to April. the world is ready to get back to Asian Tour Commissioner and CEO fi rmed that all tournaments ably have only about four or fi ve “Obviously, that’s not going a few players and a lot of them “A tour like Europe’s going to normal.” Cho Minn Than

GOLF FOCUS ‘Business as usual’ — Aussie Super Rugby Full steam ahead for teams train despite virus shutdown

AFP kets. Super Rugby sides are the Sydney only rugby teams cleared to Ryder Cup, says Euro train in Australia, with all club and community games sus- ustralian Super Rug- pended until May. by players insisted Two members of the Aus- Ait’s “business as usu- tralian Sevens team were this al” as they resumed week cleared of Covid-19, training despite a coronavi- but a Sydney University fi rst- rus shutdown that has left the grade player tested positive at captain Harrington competition facing an uncer- the weekend. tain future. Waratahs assistant coach ‘September is a long way off . So there’s no change to the situation at all at this stage’ The southern hemisphere Chris Whitaker said daily club championship, which temperature checks were in Reuters features 15 teams from fi ve place for players, with train- London countries, was halted last ing giving them “a bit of a weekend after New Zealand break to the whole coronavi- and Australia imposed strict rus thing”. here are no plans to post- travel rules to prevent the Brumbies lock Cadeyrn pone September’s Ryder spread of Covid-19. Neville also said it business as TCup in Wisconsin, Eu- Only seven of the 18 rounds usual, but admitted it was odd ropean captain Padraig have been completed, with not having a game at the end of Harrington said in response to a governing body SANZAAR the week. British media report that said the looking at whether domestic “The things we know – no event was likely to be delayed due games can be played as an al- games for at least two weeks, to the coronavirus outbreak. The ternative. non-essential staff are not offi cial Ryder Cup USA twitter feed It could see Australia’s here at the minute, just to limit also described the report in Brit- Queensland Reds, NSW Wara- any potential spread,” he told ain’s Telegraph as “inaccurate”. tahs, Melbourne Rebels and Rugby Australia’s website. The Ryder Cup, a biennial the ACT Brumbies facing each “As long as we’re careful team event between the United other, but without spectators with the way we operate, we States and Europe, is jointly after the Australian govern- should be able to stay ready owned and operated by the PGA ment banned large gatherings. with whatever happens next of America and the European “So this is week one of Su- in the competition, with po- Tour. “September is a long way per Rugby being suspended tential domestic games,” he off ,” Harrington said on Irish ra- over the coronavirus outbreak. added. dio station Today FM. “So there’s It’s business as usual mostly,” Rugby Australia chief Rae- no change to the situation at all Melbourne Rebels winger lene Castle admitted this week at this stage. I know there’s been Harry Potter said in a video that one positive test could some rumours and they had to clip posted on Twitter. spell the end of Super Rugby put out a statement to say there’s “Training is back to normal, this season. been no change, but there’s defi - people are just getting on with Experts say Super Rugby, nitely no change.” things.” which has been forced to axe The responses follow the Tel- “People are pretty happy to teams after an over-ambitious egraph report that the Ryder Cup be here, there’s plenty of toilet expansion, will face seri- was “expected” to be postponed, paper, there’s plenty of food ous problems if the season is “with the golf authorities rapidly so everyone’s enjoying them- scrapped and member coun- reaching the decision that their selves,” he added, after panic- tries have to pay back tens of most lucrative spectacle should buying of toilet roll and other millions of dollars in broadcast not be jammed into a schedule items at Australian supermar- fees. that is contracting by the week Ryder Cup European captain Padraig Harrington. (Reuters) due to the coronavirus crisis.” The Ryder Cup is scheduled have already been postponed. for Whistling Straits on the The Masters says it hopes to play R&A, USGA delay release of research on distance topics South African golfer Lange tests shores of Lake Michigan from the tournament at “some later The latest report in a major golf into the impact of increased due course.” positive for Covid-19 September 25-27. date”, while the PGA is aiming research project into the impact distance upon the sport, will be The report will produce analysis The event has previously been for a “summer” date. of increasing distance will be delayed. “At this time, the golf and research into the impact of delayed by 12 months from 2001 The US-based PGA Tour, delayed due to the coronavirus industry needs to focus on its re- the longer drives on the sport until 2002 following the Sep- which runs the game’s biggest outbreak, the Royal & Ancient sponse to the ongoing Covid-19 and what can be done with tember 11 attacks on the United weekly circuit, has cancelled all and US Golf Association said. pandemic,” the USGA and R&A equipment to address the issue States, and has since been played tournaments through at least The sport’s global sanctioning said in a statement. if needed. Input from manufac- in even-numbered years. mid-May. The LPGA Tour has bodies said last month they “Consequently, we have decided turers and other stakeholders Golf’s calendar has been af- scrapped three tournaments in would release research topics to delay this announcement in golf was due to be released fected by the coronavirus out- Asia and postponed three Amer- into the Distance Insights until a more appropriate time. into the now-postponed report, break along with most other ican events, including the ANA project within 45 days, a span This will obviously extend the which would outline further top- sports. The year’s fi rst two major Inspiration major that had been that ends today. But that report, deadline for the research. We ics of research that could last for championships, April’s Masters scheduled for California early and the subsequent research will share more information in nine months to a year. and May’s PGA Championship, next month.

RUGBY Stormers hit by ‘freakish’ injuries to WCup winning Boks

Reuters The latest injuries are to scrumhalf of losing his leg following the loss to the Matthew J Watkins is to be streamed on- Cape Town Herschel Jantjies(fractured fi bula) and Auckland Blues on February 29. “We are line because of the coronavirus pandemic. prop Steven Kitshoff (pectoral muscle), not the Stormers we were at the start of Watkins, who won 18 caps for Wales Unheralded South African diagnosis, which allows the who are expected to be out for three and the season. Take fi ve World Cup fi nalists between 2003 and 2006, died earlier this golfer Victor Lange has PGA Tour to not only alert tormers coach John Dobson has la- four months respectively. out of any team and it is a struggle. But we month at the age of 41 after being diag- tested positive for the new those he may have come in mented the “traumatic” injuries “We had six guys who played in the have got depth and have shown character.” nosed with a rare form of pelvic cancer in coronavirus, the PGA Tour said contact with during his lone Ssuff ered by his Springbok World World Cup and fi ve are now out with The world champion Boks are sched- 2013. in a statement on Wednesday. PGA Tour Latinoamerica start Cup fi nal stars this Super Rugby long-term injuries. These are all deeply uled to face Scotland in two tests in July, The former Dragons, Scarlets and Lange, ranked 1,215th in the this season, but also provides season that will also play on the mind of traumatic injuries, nothing to do with as well as a one-off game against Georgia, Gloucester centre’s funeral will take place world, was diagnosed with the an opportunity to remind fans new national team coach Jacques Nienaber. load. It is something you can’t explain,” though a fi nal decision on those matches on March 31 and a large gathering had COVID-19 in his native South of the critical need to follow The Stormers were early season front- Dobson said. will be made next month. been expected in Cardiff . Africa after returning from an current recommendations and runners in Super Rugby before back-to- “It is freakish, because it is not a condi- The coronavirus outbreak has shut But Woodfi eld Park Funeral Direc- event in Mexico on the PGA mandates to protect others,” back losses halted their progress, and they tioning issue. You saw Siya’s tackle, how down sport around the world, with top tors said in a statement on their website: Tour Latinoamerica circuit. the PGA Tour said in a state- are currently training in isolation in Cape Bongi’s (Mbonambi) leg got bent back at competitions called off as governments “During these uncertain times we ask that A statement from the PGA ment. Town with the competition on hold due to a ruck, Herschel fractures a fi bula … it’s ban mass gatherings and tighten border only family and close friends attend Mat- Tour said Lange had no The golf world has been the coronavirus outbreak. terrible.” controls as part of eff orts to contain the thew’s funeral service.” symptoms and was expected thrown into chaos by the The good news is that Bok captain Siya Dobson also revealed that lock and virus, which has killed more than 9,000 The added: “The funeral service will be to make a full recovery after coronavirus pandemic, with Kolisi is on the mend and four weeks World Rugby Player of the Year Pieter- people. streamed online for anyone wishing to see a period in quarantine at his the first two majors of 2020 away from fi tness after he was injured in Steph du Toit is expected to be out for from the safety of their own home.” home in Johannesburg. – the Masters and the PGA the season-opening win over the Hurri- three months after he picked up a he- FUNERAL OF WALES WATKINS TO BE Watkins made more than 300 club ap- “We appreciate Victor’s Championship both being canes, but there is little other reason for matoma that developed into acute com- STREAMED OVER VIRUS FEARS pearances in a 14-year senior career be- prompt disclosure of his postponed. cheer. partment syndrome and put him at risk The funeral of former Wales rugby player fore he retired in 2011. Gulf Times Friday, March 20, 2020 5 SPORT

NBA NBPA chief defends players Players face backlash

BA players didn’t Wednesday in a statement, over quick Covid-19 deserve to be criti- “Recognising the stress on Ncised for taking the state of Oklahoma’s med- coronavirus tests ical system, the Thunder did while much of the nation not use state resources and had limited access to test- chose an alternative path for ing, National Basketball testing of its personnel.” Players Association execu- This week, the Brooklyn tive director Michele Rob- Nets had all of their players tests as others wait erts told ESPN on Wednes- tested after several players day. and staff members reported The ability of teams to secure tests on demand has drawn the wrath of fans on social media According to NBA commis- symptoms of the virus. Four sioner Adam Silver, eight players tested positive, teams have undergone though only Kevin Durant testing. has been publicly identified Roberts said the tests were as being one of the four. warranted given the fact that The Nets issued a statement players and teams have been that their tests were done exposed to others who have through a private company the virus. At least seven NBA and paid for by the team. players have tested positive. The Los Angeles Lakers, the Roberts told ESPN, “There’s last team to play the Nets, nothing irresponsible — if underwent testing Wednes- you’ve got that information day. It is unclear which other (that you’ve been exposed) teams have been tested. — about trying to get the The Nets’ test drew the ire tests. of New York Mayor Bill de “The problem that more of Blasio, who tweeted, “We us can’t get the tests — and wish them a speedy recov- I’m not apologetic about ery. But, with all due respect, saying it — in my view, an entire NBA team should that rests at the foot of the NOT get tested for Covid-19 federal government. They while there are critically ill were responsible for making patients waiting to be tested. sure we were protected in Tests should not be for the that regard, and I think they wealthy, but for the sick.” failed. Roberts responded on ESPN, “We shouldn’t be fighting “I get it. People should not about this now... but once be having to wait in line. The this is done and we get at-risk population should be through it, and we will, let’s the first to be tested. But god figure out who screwed up damn it, if the government and fix that.” had done what they were The Utah Jazz were tested supposed to do, we wouldn’t on March 11 in Oklahoma City be competing for an oppor- after center Rudy Gobert tunity to be tested.” was found to have the virus, She added, “To be perfectly news that prompted the candid with you, if I was at NBA to cancel that game the arena in OKC when the and shut down the entire announcement was made, season. Silver told ESPN when the game was can- Wednesday the Jazz were celed, I would be concerned. ordered by Oklahoma City “In many ways, I think it health off icials to be tested, would have been irresponsi- not that the league or team ble for the teams not to test requested tests. their players and staff ers The Oklahoma City Thunder because people in that arena In this file photo taken on January 18, 2020, Kevin Durant (left) and Kyrie Irving of the Brooklyn Nets look on during their game against the Milwaukee Bucks at Barclays Center. (AFP) players subsequently were have the right to know if tested, with the team saying they’d been exposed.” INFECTED PLAYERS Reuters sional athletes get tested while others dis- non-symptomatic professional athletes Toronto playing symptoms are forced to wait. So were the Oklahoma Thunder, the getting tests while others are waiting in The highly contagious respiratory ill- team the Jazz were scheduled to play last line and can’t get them? Do the well con- ness caused by the virus has now infected Wednesday, and the entire Toronto Rap- nected go to the front of the line?” hile the NBA champion To- close to 8,000 Americans while the death tors travelling squad who were concerned “No, I wouldn’t say so,” said the presi- NFL, NBA off er complimentary ronto Raptors, Los Angeles toll has climbed to at least 145. they might have come in contact with in- dent. “But perhaps that’s the story of life. game and video archives WLakers and Brooklyn Nets NBA commissioner Adam Silver, in an fected players during a visit to Salt Lake That does happen on occasion, and I’ve quickly received coronavirus interview with ESPN on Wednesday, said City on March 9. noticed where people have been tested NFL and NBA fans can season and postseason tests, the general public has been left wait- he could understand de Blasio’s concern The Los Angeles Lakers, the last team to fairly quickly.” In most cases the ability of access past games for free games and NFL Films series, ing, sparking a backlash over privileged but the bigger one was that there are not play the Nets before the NBA season was teams to get their players tested has had while adjusting to life with- such as “Hard Knocks.” athletes’ and celebrities’ access to care. enough tests available and that the league suspended, announced on Wednesday more to do with money and going through out live sports during the NFL Game Pass will be “We wish them a speedy recovery. But, was simply following protocol. their players were also undergoing tests private labs than state-run public health coronavirus pandemic. off ered free of charge until with all due respect, an entire NBA team “I of course understand his point and for Covid-19. departments and jumping the queue. With the NFL off season in May 31 to fans within the US. should NOT get tested for COVID-19 while it’s unfortunate that we’re in this position The ability of NBA teams to secure tests The NBA also defended the speedy ac- full swing and free agency The NBA will open its there are critically ill patients waiting to be as a society that it’s triage when it comes on demand has drawn the wrath of fans on tion as a way of preventing the spread of deals dominating sports historical vault until April 22. tested,” tweeted New York City Mayor Bill to testing,” said Silver, adding that eight social media. the virus with testing of players drawing it headlines, the league made Through NBA League Pass, de Blasio after it was reported the Nets had full teams as well as individual players “The thing is that is always the case. to the attention of young people. Game Pass access compli- all games from the 2019-20 been tested and four players were isolated have been tested. “And so the fundamen- The rich will always get it fi rst and the “The NBA’s move to halt its season mentary. season and many classic after positive coronavirus results. “Tests tal issue is there are insuffi cient tests. poor will always get it last,” tweeted @ led the way for other leagues and raised Game Pass is a digital prod- games and events will be should not be for the wealthy, but for the “But we’ve been following the recom- thedrsec, who has over 23,000 followers awareness of the threat of the virus,” said uct available across multiple shown. sick.” mendations of public health offi cials.” and a radio program on 22 stations across Silver. platforms and devices and The NBA App or NBA.com As the coronavirus spreads and the USA Today reported last week that after seven states. “My sense was that especially among has archives of games dat- is the launch point for United States deals with a shortage of test Utah Jazz’s Rudy Gobert tested positive President Donald Trump waded into young people, people were not taking ing to 2009. The extensive fans wanting to access the kits, the public has grown increasingly for the virus 58 members of the Jazz or- the issue during a news conference on these protocols very seriously until we did library includes all regular- league’s game content. disgruntled over the ease by which profes- ganization were tested. Wednesday when he was asked, “How are what we did.”

SPOTLIGHT Warriors shut down facilities, no players have shown symptoms DPA Warriors will not administer tests un- to be with family. According to Myers, San Jose, California less players show symptoms of having three Warriors players have left the Bay contracted Covid-19. This comes after Area, though he would not disclose news that four Brooklyn Nets players – names. “Some of these guys were liv- ours after announcing the including former Golden State forward ing in a 400-foot apartment, so they Warriors’ intentions to play Kevin Durant – tested positive for the want to be with their families, which Hlast Thursday’s game against virus. is understandable,” Myers said. “Some the Nets in an empty arena, The Nets left San Francisco af- can’t aff ord to stay in the place they general manager Bob Myers got a text ter NBA Commissioner Adam Silver were indefi nitely. Everyone’s in a dif- from owner Joe Lacob: “Do you see announced the league’s suspension ferent situation as far as family, as far what’s going on with the Utah-Okla- when Jazz centre Rudy Gobert became as resources.” homa City game?” the fi rst player to test positive last Kerr recently drove with his family As he watched Jazz and Thunder Wednesday. On Tuesday, several play- to self-quarantine in their San Diego players get ushered off the court and ers woke up with symptoms. “I’m hop- home: “We’ve got a little more space the PA announcer tell the crowd the ing none of our guys went and hung out down here,” he said. game was cancelled, Myers knew the with any of their Though the Warriors’ front offi ce, NBA was on the brink of a shutdown. players the night before our game,” coaches and players remain in constant “Just connecting the dots, my imme- head coach Steve Kerr said on a con- contact, Kerr has been using much of diate thought was that they were going ference call Tuesday. “I don’t know if his time reading about the coronavirus to have to suspend the season,” Myers that’s the case or not.” While the Nets pandemic and watching fi lm of pros- said on a conference call on Tuesday. had their players tested by a private pects ahead of this year’s NBA draft — “It just created an untenable situa- company upon returning to New York, in which the Warriors will have a top- tion for our league.” Since then, seven the Warriors have not had their play- fi ve selection. NBA players have tested positive for ers tested and won’t as long as they are “It’s something I haven’t been able the coronavirus while the league an- asymptomatic. to do much of over the years,” Kerr nounced an indefi nite hiatus to coun- “In California, my understanding is said. “More than anything, it’s fulfi ll- ter the pandemic. that these tests are not readily availa- Chase Center, home to the Golden State Warriors, is seen from above in San Francisco, California, on March 12, 2020. (AFP) ing my fi x. I love what I do and I love As of Tuesday, no Warriors players ble, and people who don’t have symp- the game. It’s hard, honestly, not turn- have shown symptoms, according to toms shouldn’t be doing that,” Myers death toll in the United States from the indoors and cease any non-essential torn cruciate ligament in his left knee ing a game on at night. All of us on this Myers. Meanwhile, the team has shut said. “We’re not treating ourselves any coronavirus reached 100 Tuesday. travel until April 7, Warriors players in last June’s NBA Finals, it means he call are big sports fans or we wouldn’t down operations at Chase Center as to diff erently than anyone else – I think “The NBA coming to a halt helped a and staff ers cannot work at the Chase will have to continue his rehab on his be in this capacity. comply with San Francisco’s shelter- that’s the right thing to do.” lot of people come to grips,” Kerr said. Center facility in the city’s Mission Bay own. Myers said he may periodically “I’m sure everybody has felt how in-place ordinance. For the next three In the days that followed the NBA’s “It was one of the tipping points where neighbourhood. work with a trainer over the next few strange it is when you have a time like weeks, the front offi ce, coaches and suspension, several sporting events society at large knew how serious this Many players don’t have the means weeks. this, where things are scary or diff er- players will try to remain in contact were cancelled or postponed and local was.” Meanwhile, with residents of to work out at home, creating a chal- During the indefi nite suspension of ent. This is when you turn to sports and navigate the indefi nite suspen- and federal governments encouraged San Francisco and several other Bay- lenge to maintain their conditioning. the season, the NBA recently informed to get away. Obviously that’s not an sion of the NBA season. Myers said the stricter rules on social distancing. The Area counties being ordered to remain For Klay Thompson, who suff ered a players they may travel out of market option.” Gulf Times 6 Friday, March 20, 2020 SPORT

F1 BASEBALL Angels’ Maddon is for playing games in Dutch, Spanish and empty stadiums Monaco Grands Prix THE EARLIEST THE NEW SEASON CAN NOW START IS ON JUNE 7 postponed IN AZERBAIJAN

File photo of Los Angeles manager Joe Maddon (left) chats with general manager Billy Eppler. (TNS)

By Maria Torres tators to aid the containment Los Angeles Times of Covid-19. But would owners, who have stakes in a league that takes in ven during a shutdown an estimated $11bn per year, prompted by the out- be willing to sacrifi ce revenue Ebreak of a virus, Los from tickets and concessions? Angeles Angels man- “There won’t be the money ager Joe Maddon is think- via the families in the stands, ing of ways to push baseball’s but there’s got to be a fi nan- boundaries. cial benefi t somehow, from How long would games last either television or streaming,” if pitchers were forced to heed Maddon said on the phone a 20-second clock counting from Tempe, Ariz., the spring- down the time they have to training home of the Angels. “I throw their next pitch? don’t know how that’s all gon- Would the sport generate na play out. I don’t know how more interest if players wore attractive that would be. But microphones during games you’d have to believe some- — and not only during spring thing would be better than training or All-Star exhibi- nothing. tions? “As a manager, and as play- Can teams adjust to play- ers, I think we would all be ea- ing by international rules that ger to do something like that.” call for a runner to be placed Such drastic measures could on second base in extra-inning provide a distraction during games? this time of crisis. Maddon said Wednesday “Whatever it takes to get those topics, which Commis- this thing rolling again to make sioner Rob Manfred has cham- it interesting and not lose the pioned in his eff ort to improve momentum and defi nitely pace of play, should be ex- not lose the season,” Maddon plored as the league monitors said. “Everybody is going to be the spread of the coronavirus champing at the bit so much and deliberates over when it that nobody is gonna complain should allow baseball activi- about anything. We’re just ties to resume. gonna get out there and under- The F1 Monaco Grand Prix (pictured) will no longer take place in May. (Reuters) “There’s so many adjust- stand how fortunate we are to ments out there that this is be able to do what we do. And AFP globally, the FIA, Formula One 217,510 cases with 9,020 deaths F1 postpones major rules the perfect petri dish to ex- get back on the fi eld entertain- Paris and the three promoters have across 157 countries and territo- periment with right now to ing and being part of the fab- taken these decisions in order to ries as of 1100 GMT yesterday. fi nd out what we like, what we ric again, which we need and ensure the health and safety of The European football cham- revamp to 2022 don’t like and move forward which the public of our coun- he Dutch, Spanish and the travelling staff , champion- pionships and Copa America Formula One has postponed to take eff ect from the 2021 from there,” Maddon said. try needs.” Monaco Formula One ship participants and fans, which have been both pushed back by 12 sweeping technical changes season will be postponed until Of course, getting to the In addition to expressing TGrand Prix races were remains our primary concern,” a months to 2021. But the Interna- from 2021 to 2022 due to the 2022,” it said in a statement. point where baseball can be encouragement about the fu- yesterday postponed due joint statement from F1 and the tional Olympic Committee have coronavirus outbreak, the It added that “due to the played again is the challenge. ture of baseball, Maddon em- to the global spread of coronavi- FIA read. so far pledged to carry on with sport announced yesterday. currently volatile financial In accordance with guidelines phasized the importance of rus, offi cials announced. All parties said they would the Tokyo Olympics, scheduled “Following unanimous situation” caused by the virus, provided by the Centers for following recommendations The triple postponements study the viability of fi nding al- to run between July 24-August 9. agreement between the FIA, teams will also use their 2020 Disease Control and Preven- laid out by the CDC and other follow the cancellation of the ternative dates to run the races Formula One and all teams, cars in 2021 with talks ongoing tion restricting large gather- government entities. Maddon, season-opening Australian later in the year, and the state- REVISED CALENDAR the implementation of the over ways to make further ings, the earliest MLB could 66, mentioned the looming Grand Prix last week, and the ment added that Formula 1 and CANCELLED Technical Regulations due significant savings. begin the season is May 10. threat of the health care sys- postponement of the Chinese, the FIA expect to be able to begin March 15: Australia (Melbourne) That unoffi cial target date has tem’s infrastructure becoming Bahrain and Vietnam Grand Prix the 2020 season “as soon as it’s Postponed – March 22: Bahrain become increasingly unlikely overwhelmed by those who do races. safe to do so after May”, but will (Sakhir) STILL PLANNED September 6: Italy (Monza) as the coronavirus pandemic not take precautions seriously. The Dutch GP, due to return continue to monitor the situa- Postponed – April 5: Vietnam June 7: Azerbaijan (Baku) September 20 Singapore (Ma- has widened. “Why would you not want to the calendar for the fi rst time tion. (Hanoi) June 14: Canada (Montreal) rina Bay) Maddon, a self-described to listen to health experts right since 1985, was set to be held at The earliest the new season Postponed – April 19: China June 28: France (Le Castellet) September 27: Russia (Sochi) optimist, still believes a sig- now?” Maddon said. “I’ve got Zandvoort on May 1-3, with the can now start is on June 7 in Az- (Shanghai) July 5: Austria (Spielberg) October 11: Japan (Suzuka) nifi cant portion of the typical an 87-year-old mother. A lot Spanish race following a week erbaijan. Postponed – May 3: Netherlands July 19: Great Britain (Silver- October 25: United States (Austin) 162-game season can be played of us have people that are a lit- later, and the Monaco Grand Prix The postponements are the (Zandvoort) stone) November 1: Mexico (Mexico City) if people adhere to social-dis- tle bit older that are at higher on May 21-24. latest to have hit a sporting cal- Postponed – May 10: Spain August 2: Hungary (Budapest) November 15: Brazil (Sao Paulo) tancing measures. He thinks risk. Why would you not want “Due to the ongoing and fl uid endar turned upside down by the (Barcelona) August 30: Belgium (Spa-Fran- November 29: Abu Dhabi (Yas teams could even begin the to be a benefi t to those people nature of the Covid-19 situation coronavirus outbreak, which has Postponed – May 24: Monaco corchamps) Marina). season playing without spec- by adhering to the rules?”

SPOTLIGHT NHL NBA chief Silver fl oats Senators player tests prospect of charity game positive for coronavirus AFP Reuters “are there conditions in which a Ottawa Los Angeles group of players could compete — maybe it’s for a giant fundraiser or just the collective good of the n unnamed Ottawa espite not yet know- people — where you take a subset Senators player has ing exactly when his of players, and is there a proto- Abecome the fi rst Na- Dsport will return to col where they can be tested and tional Hockey League action, NBA commis- quarantined and isolated in some player to test positive for the sioner Adam Silver told ESPN way, and they could compete coronavirus Covid-19, the club on Wednesday that the league is against one another? “Because announced late Tuesday. considering several scheduling people are stuck at home, and I The player is in isolation af- options depending on how long think they need a diversion. They ter displaying mild symptoms, the coronavirus pandemic shut- need to be entertained.” the Senators said in a posting down lasts, including a potential Silver openly shared that all on their website. charity game. ideas are on the table these days “The Ottawa Senators are in In a nationally televised in- since the league suspended its the process of notifying any- terview, Silver opined on how regular season last Wednesday, one who has had known close the league could best handle its even potentially pushing the an- contact with the athlete and eventual schedule once games nual league calendar to December are working with our team are again deemed safe enough to through August instead of Octo- doctors and public health offi - play. ber through June, as some have cials,” the club said in a state- In this file photo taken on on March 11, 2020, Blake Lizotte Among the considerations in- File photo of NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. (AFP) suggested. ment. (right) of the Los Angeles Kings reaches for the puck in front clude the safety benchmarks for He also said it was premature to “As a result of this positive of Thomas Chabot (left) of the Ottawa Senators during the restarting the league again with fans, players and league person- Silver said. reveal any specifi cs over the fates case, all members of the Ot- second period at Staples Center. (AFP) fans as normal, how to play games nel before being completely cer- Silver then brought up the idea of end-of-season awards — such tawa Senators are requested “and operate as we’ve known it tain the coronavirus would not be of a charity game, one that would as MVP trophies, scoring titles, to remain isolated, to monitor for the next two months. main safe and healthy during with 19,000 fans” in league ven- spread. not aff ect the regular season, in etc. — if the league fails to resume their health and seek advice “The health of our players, this time of uncertainty due to ues without concern of spreading “Because, presumably, if we order to raise funds while prov- its 2019-20 regular season. from our team medical staff .” fans, and community remains the spread of the coronavirus.” the virus. had a group of players, and staff ing a respite for those itching for a Silver seemed more concerned The NHL put its season on our highest priority,” the Sen- The Senators had the sec- Silver admitted perhaps it around them, and you could test welcome distraction from recent with the next steps for the league hold last week, agreeing to ators said. “We will continue ond-worst record in the league would be better for games to be- them and follow some sort of events. on the fl oor and how the NBA follow health offi cials’ recom- to do everything we can to help when the seson was shut down gin fi rst without fans, so as not to protocol, doctors and health of- “One of the things we’ve been could help the nation make a mendations that gatherings of ensure our players, staff , fans with 25 wins and 62 points overreach and possibly endanger fi cials may say it’s safe to play,” talking about are,” Silver said, move toward normalcy. 50 or more people be cancelled and the greater community re- from 71 games. Gulf Times Friday, March 20, 2020 7 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT TRAGIC Former Villa and Cardiff midfi elder Caputo, the voice Whittingham, 35, dies

AFP London

ormer Aston Villa and of optimism in Cardiff midfi elder Peter FWhittingham died yes- terday at the age of 35 fol- lowing an accidental fall. Whit- tingham had been in hospital since suff ering head injuries at a pub in the seaside town of Barry on March 7. Italian football He reportedly fell down a fl ight of stairs after watching England play Wales in the Six Nations 'It was my idea. I hadn’t told anyone. I wanted to get this message across' tournament. In a statement on their website, Cardiff said: “It is with an immeasurable amount of sorrow that we must inform sup- porters that Peter Whittingham has passed away at the age of 35. We are heartbroken. The news of Peter’s sudden and untimely Peter Whittingham reportedly passing has shaken us to our very fell down a flight of stairs after foundation.” watching England play Wales in Whittingham, a former Eng- the Six Nations tournament. land Under-21 international, started his career at Villa and “Our love goes out to his wife won the FA Youth Cup with them Amanda, their young son and in 2002. He played 66 games family. They are at the forefront for Villa and had loan spells at of our thoughts and, on their be- Burnley and Derby before join- half, we ask for their privacy to ing Cardiff in 2007. Whitting- be respected at this unfathom- ham helped Cardiff reach the ably cruel and diffi cult time,” the 2008 FA Cup fi nal, which they statement said. lost 1-0 to Portsmouth, and the “First and foremost, Peter was 2012 League Cup fi nal, where a family man — and somebody they were beaten on penalties by who could light up a room with Liverpool. his sense of humour, warmth and He was in the side who won personality. Then, as a profes- the Championship in 2013, tak- sional footballer — as a Bluebird ing Cardiff back to the top-fl ight — he excelled with talent, ease, for the fi rst time since relega- grace and humility. Nobody did tion from the old Division One in it better. The loss of Peter will 1962. be painfully felt by our city, sup- He moved to Blackburn af- porters and indeed all who ever ter 450 appearances in a decade had the pleasure of knowing him. with Cardiff and nishedfi his We love you Pete and your mem- career at Ewood Park in 2018. ory will eternally stay with us.”

Belarus league kicks off aft er others shut down Minsk, Belarus: As football we are starting the champion- around the world shut down ship in a timely manner. Today.” After the scoring first of his two goals against Brescia in the Serie A match on March 9, Sassuolo striker Francesco Caputo (second right) turned to a camera and held up a amid the coronavirus pandem- He added there was no point hand-written message on a sheet of paper in Italian, which said: “Andra tutto bene. Restate a casa”: everything will be fine, stay home. ic, defiant Belarus kicked off its in barring the public, as many new season yesterday and said other leagues did before they AFP turned to a camera and held up a hand- them leave home is very diffi cult but we Italy, where Caputo started his career it would even allow spectators eventually suspended games Rome written message on a sheet of paper. “An- are very attentive to the rules.” in his native Bari under coach Antonio to watch the games. Energetik altogether. “Yes, many matches dra tutto bene. Restate a casa”: every- But the player, currently the second Conte. BGU got the Belarus Premier in Europe have been played thing will be fi ne, stay home. A few hours top Italian scorer in Serie A with 13 goals, “I will be forever grateful to him. He League underway with a 3-1 win without spectators. But so Everything will be fi ne. Stay at later, the head of the Italian government behind the untouchable Ciro Immobile launched me in Serie B, with Bari (in over BATE Borisov and a live many fans gather around the home.” Sassuolo striker Francesco Giuseppe Conte used the same words — (27), did not stop there. Like many other 2008) and that day I scored a hat-trick,” stream of the game showed stadium that it makes no sense “Caputo understood before every- “Stay at home” — to explain to Italians footballers, now deprived of playing time, explained Caputo. “Then he wanted me at least several hundred fans to close off the game.” one else. The Italian’s reassuring the new draconian provisions put in place he has become involved in helping raise in Siena (2010-11).He taught me the im- watching in the main stand. Bazanov said that he would message came hours before the govern- to fi ght against the pandemic. funds for those in the medical world, on portance of sacrifi ce. With him, when you Earlier, Vladimir Bazanov, the see several matches himself. “If ment halted all sport in the country amid Since then, the concrete and reassur- the front line facing the crisis which has return home, you’re totally exhausted.” head of the Belarus Football you followed the last champi- the devastating coronavirus pandemic. ing message of “Ciccio” Caputo has made killed nearly 3,000 and infected over His year in Siena under Conte was the Federation, said on its off icial onship, then you know that I Italy was already worried, the disease its way even beyond the world of football. 13,000 in Italy. fi rst of nine seasons for Caputo in Serie B. website that only 51 cases of constantly attend matches. And had done a lot of damage, and movement It is found in all information and aware- He participated along with other Se- After two seasons with Empoli, helping coronavirus had been recorded over the first round of games restrictions were about to be imple- ness-raising campaigns and even on ban- rie A players in a juggling competition as them to top-fl ight promotion in 2018, his in the country and there was I plan to be at three matches,” mented. It was March 9 and Europe was ners hanging from windows all over the part of a fundraiser for hospitals. He also form has exploded this term since joining no reason for not beginning the he said. still playing football despite the escalat- country. auctioned his No.9 jersey worn during the Sassuolo last July. season. Shakhtyor Soligorsk were ing health crisis. That night in Emilia- “It was my idea. I hadn’t told anyone. fi nal match this month, signed with the “He’s a master in the art of in-depth “For what reason should we hosting Torpedo Zhodino in Romagna, a region hard hit by the virus, I wanted to get this message across. It is now famous motto “Andra tutto Bene”. attacking and marking,” said Sassuolo not start it? Is a state of emer- yesterday’s other match with home side Sassuolo beat Brescia 3-0 in a diffi cult period for the whole nation,” The 2,500 euros ($2,600) raised were coach Roberto De Zerbi. “He arrived late gency declared in our country?” six more games to be played what would be the last match in an Italian said the 32-year-old. “We want to protect donated to health authorities in Italy’s in Serie A. His strength is that he takes he said. “There is no critical between yesterday and tomor- championship since suspended. our families. For example, at home I have southern Puglia region, from where he advantage of all this with the maturity of situation. So we decided that row. After the fi rst of his two goals, Caputo my wife with three children, not letting hails. It was in this region, in the heel of a man.”

ROUND-UP Real striker Jovic faces criminal charges for breaking quarantine he Serbian government is set Ex-Switzerland international Djour- have off ered to give up their wages Germany’s Sami Khedira and NEVILLE SAYS HIS HOTELS to press charges against the ou and former Cameroon midfi elder to help the club’s fi nancial situation Bosnian Miralem Pjanic have also left FREE FOR NHS STAFF country’s Real Madrid striker Song are joined by Pajtim Kasami, during the coronavirus pandemic, Turin to join their families. Star at- Gary Neville has said that the two ho- TLuka Jovic for breaking his Ermir Lenjani, Xavier Kouassi, Seydou sporting director Max Eberl said. tacker Cristiano Ronaldo had remained tels he co-owns with former Manches- mandatory 28-day coronavirus quar- Doumbia, Mickael Facchinetti, Chris- Gladbach are set to lose income from in Portugal to self-isolate after his ter United team mate Ryan Giggs will antine, the state Tanjug news agency tian Zock, Birama Ndoye in leaving the broadcasting, sponsorships and ticket mother suff ered a stroke. Italy has been be made available to National Health said yesterday. two-time Swiss champions. sales during the COVID-19 outbreak hard-hit by the coronavirus pandemic Service (NHS) staff at no cost as they “Jovic breached the self-isolation Switzerland has registered some with all Bundesliga matches suspended with over 3,000 deaths and more than fi ght the coronavirus pandemic. when he left his apartment in the Bel- 3,800 cases of coronavirus, includ- until at least April 2. 13,000 positive cases. Premier League side Chelsea have grade suburb of Vracar and his excuse ing 33 deaths making the small Alpine Coaching staff and boss Marco Rose also made the Millennium Hotel at was that he went to a pharmacy to buy country of 8.5mn people one of the have also said they would go without BAYERN TAKE TRAINING their Stamford Bridge stadium in Lon- medicines. If he breaches the quaran- hardest-hit by the pandemic compared their salaries. According to media ONLINE TO REDUCE VIRUS RISK don available to NHS staff . Through tine again, he faces harsher measures to its population size. reports in Germany, the decision by Keen to avoid unnecessary travel while their GG Hospitality group, Neville and and possibly arrest. The law applies to the players and staff will allow the side maintaining social contact, Bayern Giggs co-own Hotel Football and The everyone and the authorities will not MAN UNITED GUARANTEE PAY sitting fourth in the table to save one Munich have set up ‘cyber-training’ Stock Exchange in Manchester. discriminate regardless of what one FOR CASUAL WORKERS million euros ($1.07mn). sessions where players work out “Our 176 beds will be occupied by does for a living,” the agency said. Manchester United have vowed to together online by following exercises NHS workers and medical profession- Serbia’s president Aleksandar Vucic pay 3,000 casual staff even for the HIGUAIN LEAVES QUARANTINE streamed from the club’s headquarters. als from Friday,” Neville said in a video declared a state of emergency on Sun- remainder the season even if matches TO RETURN TO ARGENTINA “We all have to try to deal with the posted on Twitter. day to curb the coronavirus outbreak in are forced behind closed doors or Juventus striker Gonzalo Higuain has situation in a positive way,” Bayern the Balkan nation. One of the measures cancelled due to the Covid-19 crisis. left the team’s quarantine and returned coach Hansi Flick told the club’s SECOND TEST NEGATIVE FOR is a 28-day quarantine for all Serbian The shutdown of English football was home to Argentina, according to multi- website. “Yesterday (Wednesday) at 11 FLAMENGO’S JESUS citizens travelling home from Euro- extended until April 30 with mass ple reports in Italy. The 32-year-old in- am, we had our fi rst ‘Cyber Training’, Brazilian soccer club Flamengo said pean countries most aff ected by the gatherings banned to try and halt the ternational had been in isolation along where the team were coached remotely. their coach Jorge Jesus has tested virus, including Spain. spread of the virus. with the rest of Serie A leaders’ squad Everyone was motivated, everyone did negative for the coronavirus, contra- Serbian media reported that the Old Traff ord is still due to host following teammate Daniele Rugani’s very well.” dicting the Portuguese manager’s own international striker had returned to four Premier League matches this positive test a week ago, with France’s Germany has not yet introduced message a day earlier. “The new exam Serbia from Madrid earlier this week season, while United could still have Blaise Matuidi also catching the virus mandatory confi nement measures, but done on coach Jorge Jesus has come to visit his girlfriend after matches in teammates, due to the coronavirus three more home games in the Europa in recent days. Bundesliga leaders Bayern have de- back negative for COVID-19,” the Rio Spain’s La Liga were suspended. The pandemic, local media reported. League. Last week United announced Higuain had reportedly asked Juve cided to keep their players at home in de Janeiro club said in a statement. 22-year-old denied rumours that he The nine players refused the tem- they were paying £350 ($415) towards for permission to visit his sick mother, order to best respect the instructions Jesus posted an Instagram message had broken Real Madrid’s own quaran- porary unemployment terms off ered the travel and accommodation of each and had a test confi rming he was nega- from health authorities. “The guys are on Tuesday declaring he had tested tine to travel to Serbia. by the club with the Super League supporter that bought a ticket for the tive for Covid-19. The recommended equipped with the fi tness recording positive for the virus. The club said at postponed until April 30 due to the trip to LASK after Austria’s Covid-19 quarantine period is two weeks. clocks. That means we get all relevant the time the result was “weak positive SION CANCEL SONG, DJOUROU ongoing outbreak, Swiss news agency measures saw the Europa League last As fl ights to Argentina are all data of each player, such as the heart or inconclusive” and a second test was CONTRACTS DUE TO VIRUS ATS claimed. Sion’s president Chris- 16, fi rst leg forced behind closed doors. blocked, Higuain organised a transfer rate, on our monitors,” said Holger required. Jesus last weekend criticised Swiss top-fl ight outfi t FC Sion have tian Constantin has decided to rip up by private jet with his family fi rst to Broich, the club’s head fi tness coach. the Rio state football Federation for terminated the contracts of former the deals immediately after the players GLADBACH PLAYERS GIVE UP France late on Wednesday, then Spain Flick contends that keeping players in allowing games to go on, saying foot- Arsenal pair Alex Song and Johan rejected his measures including less WAGES TO HELP CLUB and from there fl y to South America, touch on a regular basis is just as es- ballers and backroom staff were “not Djourou, as well as of seven of their training and a salary cap. Borussia Moenchengladbach’s squad according to reports. sential as the training itself. superhuman” and deserved more care. Friday, March 20, 2020 GULF TIMES SPORT

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Turkish leagues fi nally suspended aft er English football players complain

Reuters striker Radamel Falcao joined the Ankara chorus of footballers criticising the decision to continue playing. “People are dying around the urkish football, bas- world and we are talking to play extends shutdown ketball and volleyball football,” he said on Twitter. Tleagues, which were Kayserispor’s Bernard Mensah among the last to con- also took to social media to ex- tinue playing matches, were press his frustration. “Life is the suspended indefi nitely yesterday most important thing on earth... due to the widening coronavirus this is (a) serious thing happen- outbreak. “Within the frame- ing and they still insist to contin- work of measures taken against ue do they really care about us?” till April 30 the coronavirus, all matches of the 25-year-old Ghanaian posted soccer, basketball, volleyball and on Twitter. handball have been postponed,” Galatasaray’s basketball play- No date, even provisional, was given by the leagues for the season to be concluded Sports Minister Muharrem ers issued a joint statement say- Kasapoglu said after meeting ing they found it “quite bizarre” By David Conn the heads of sports federations to continue playing. John Obi The Guardian in Ankara. Turkey has confi rmed Mikel left Turkish side Trab- 191 cases and three deaths from zonspor days after the former coronavirus. Authorities had Chelsea midfi elder said he did he provisional date of the fi rst taken steps to contain the spread, not feel comfortable with top- weekend in April for the resump- including ordering sports events fl ight games in the country being Ttion of professional football in to be played without spectators, played. England has been pushed almost but had stopped short of halting The chairman of league leaders a month further on until “no earlier than matches. Trabzonspor, however, said any 30 April”, the Premier League, Football Turkey had come under inter- delay to Super League matches Association, EFL and women’s profes- national pressure to postpone would lead to an increase in the sional game have said in a joint statement. its competitions after the over- number of divorces. “Football is The announcement, which emphasises whelming majority of European the one thing in Turkey that al- that public health is the overriding pri- football leagues, and several lows people to get rid of their ority in the coronavirus crisis, was made others globally, shut down. Yes- stress, to entertain themselves after an emergency conference call with terday’s, football’s global players and to occupy their minds,” the 20 Premier League clubs. The FA said union FIFPRO said it had writ- chairman Ahmet Agaoglu said, it had “extended indefi nitely” the date ten to the Turkish league ask- wearing a protective mask as he for the season to conclude after its board ing it to “urgently reconsider” spoke to the media. sanctioned a relaxation of the standard 1 its decision to continue matches “If they suspend the league for June fi nish date given the unprecedented and training. “Numerous foreign a long time, in a month from now circumstances caused by the pandemic. players have contacted us to say there won’t be enough judges to No date, even provisional, was given by they are uncomfortable continu- rule on all the divorce cases,” he the leagues for the season to be conclud- ing as #COVID19 spreads,” FIF- added. “We are the leaders right ed, as there is a recognition the whole of PRO said on Twitter. now. Trabzonspor should be de- society is in terribly uncertain times and Galatasaray’s Colombian clared champions.” any resumption, most probably behind closed doors, is dependent on govern- ment health advice and policies. UEFA this week did state a hoped-for fi nish date of 30 June for the conclusion of European club football seasons when it postponed this summer’s European Championship, due to be held from 11 June to 11 July, to allow more time. FIFA, though, said on Wednesday it had set up a working group with UEFA and the other A driver pulls a trailer past Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium in London in this March 13 file photo. The shutdown of English football continental federations to examine how was extended until at least April 30 yesterday. (AFP) to relax normal player registration rules if the season, and players’ contracts, need matches have an increased opportunity to supporters are our priority. We will con- “Everyone loves sport, loves watching to be extended beyond 30 June. be played and, in doing so, maintain the tinue to follow government advice and football but I really think the right deci- “The FA, Premier League, EFL and integrity of each competition. work collaboratively to keep the situa- sion was made in bringing it to a halt. At women’s professional game, together “The FA’s rules and regulations state tion under review and explore all options this moment in time it’s pretty irrelevant, with the Professional Footballers’ Asso- ‘the season shall terminate not later available to fi nd ways of resuming the people’s health is fi rst and foremost. ciation and League Managers Associa- than 1 June’ and ‘each competition shall, season when the conditions allow. We Once we get over this crisis we can look at tion, understand we are in unprecedented within the limit laid down by the FA, de- would all like to re-emphasise that our sport and getting the Premier League and times and our thoughts are with everyone termine the length of its own playing sea- thoughts are with everyone aff ected by Football Leagues back in action.” aff ected by Covid-19,” the statement said. son’. However, the FA’s board has agreed Covid-19.” Having set the space of six weeks be- “We are united in our commitment to for this limit to be extended indefi nitely One option could see the end of the fore even considering playing again, fi nding ways of resuming the 2019-20 for the 2019-20 season in relation to pro- 2019/20 and beginning of the 2020/21 football’s authorities are holding urgent football season and ensuring all domestic fessional football. Additionally, we have come together with no time for an off - talks with Sky, other broadcasters and and European club league and cup match- collectively agreed that the professional season break. “Players may need to get sponsors about maintaining the game’s es are played as soon as it is safe and pos- game in England will be further post- their summer break in now before we fi n- fi nancial stability. On Wednesday the sible to do so. We have collectively sup- poned until no earlier than 30 April. ish what was the 19/20 season and roll EFL announced a £50mn package, in ef- ported UEFA in postponing Euro 2020 to “The progress of Covid-19 remains it right into the 20/21 season without a fect bringing forward the distribution of create space in the calendar to ensure do- unclear and we can reassure everyone the break,” Brighton striker Glenn Murray TV money, to help clubs with immediate Galatasaray’s Colombian striker Radamel Falcao had joined the mestic and European club league and cup health and welfare of players, staff and told AFP. cash fl ow crises. chorus of footballers criticising the decision to continue playing.

PREMIER LEAGUE BOTTOMLINE Klopp’s human touch fosters QSL holds workshop for club coaches he Qatar Stars League (QSL) yes- Hani Taleb Ballan, Executive Director of the coming period, with the aim of main- winning mentality at Liverpool terday held a workshop for fi rst and Competitions and Football Development taining the fi tness of players while away Tsecond division club coaches to Ahmed Khellil Abbassi, coaches from fi rst from competitions. AFP discuss resumption of training for and second division side, besides Dr Salam It was agreed at the meeting, after lis- London players after the ongoing stoppage of ac- Sharab, a doctor in the Ministry of Public tening to all points of view and proposals, tivities, in view of precautionary measures Health, and Dr Khaled Hassoun, Medical to give coaches the freedom to set training taken to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Director of National Sports Medicine Pro- programmes, implement them in the proper urgen Klopp says his abil- The QSL underlined its main goal to gramme at Aspetar Hospital. manner and supervise their implementa- ity to build close relation- maintain the readiness and fi tness of players The mechanisms for resumption of train- tion, provided that the players are continu- Jships with his Liverpool ahead of the start of competitions. ing were discussed, and the coaches pre- ously monitored by technical and adminis- players has been the secret The workshop was attended by QSL CEO sented their views, ideas and proposals for trative bodies. to their success during his reign. Although the Premier League season is currently delayed until ROUND-UP at least April 30 due to the coro- navirus, Reds boss Klopp is in constant contact with his squad via the players’ WhatsApp group. Arsenal say manager Arteta recovering That personal touch is part of a hands-on approach Klopp be- lieves is essential to understand- well as club reopen training facilities ing what makes his players tick. The German obsesses over every By Nick Ames ning with the coaches and speaking to the detail of their lives so he can get The Guardian players regularly.” the best out of them on the pitch, A small workforce is maintaining the joking he probably even thinks A banner of Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is seen outside a house London Colney and Hale End training about them in his sleep. in Liverpool yesterday. (Reuters) ikel Arteta is well on the road centres’ pitches and facilities for when- “Apart from sleeping, I think to recovery after being di- ever training gets the go-ahead. The Arse- the whole day — in fact prob- why somebody is determined competition the season before Magnosed with coronavirus a nal women’s and academy teams are also ably when I am sleeping — about and motivated. I think I need to that. week ago and Arsenal’s train- staying at home. Arsenal pledged their these boys. I don’t want to, it know them. That’s what creates a “I’m always 100 per cent hon- ing facilities have reopened for everyday support to the local community, in Isling- just happens because there is relationship. They can talk to me est, I don’t tell always the truth, maintenance after a deep clean. ton, during the coronavirus outbreak. Dis- so much information you have,” and it’s always important.” but that’s diff erent...that means Around 100 Arsenal personnel, in- cussions about ways to support the area’s Klopp, speaking before the cur- Klopp is liked by his play- I don’t speak. If you ask me, I cluding the fi rst-team squad and coach- more vulnerable groups have included the rent suspension was enforced, ers because of that empathetic would be one hundred per cent ing staff , have been self-isolating since potential for online coaching and teach- told JD’s In The Duffl e Bag pod- side to his personality and his honest,” Klopp said. Arteta’s positive test. ing, and staff volunteering to have regular cast series. “For me the most methods have created a united “I never lied to a player, that They are set to return to training next phone contact with elderly people who important thing is for the player mentality at Anfi eld. His honest doesn’t work. If I say ‘You have Tuesday but that looks far from certain feel isolated. The club is also looking at to be in his best shape in the mo- approach is a bid to foster ac- a chance if you do this and that’, now the Premier League will not resume ways to support its many casual workers. ment when it counts and we try countability among his players. then you have a chance if you do before 30 April. The club are working The Premier League’s decision about to do that with nutrition, train- The results have been impres- this and that. But I have to re- through the implications of that decision the season’s immediate future has Ar- ing and tactics. But then there is sive, with Liverpool establishing mind myself these are the mo- for their day-to-day schedule, a process senal’s full support. Their managing di- a time when they go home and a 25-point lead in the Premier ments when you can lose a player made diffi cult by the fast-moving wider rector, Vinai Venkatesham, and head of there is still a situation. That is League that had taken them to or lose a team if you say some- situation dictating events. football, Raul Sanllehi, participated in normal life but it all infl uences the brink of a fi rst English title thing and don’t stick to it. It is Arteta is communicating from home yesterday’s conference call between the performance. I don’t pretend I’m for 30 years prior to the virus really possible you lose the whole with colleagues. “We’re pleased to say league and its 20 clubs. Arsenal face a interested. suspension. dressing room but it’s never hap- Mikel is feeling much better,” read part of a backlog of at least six top-fl ight games, “I am interested. It’s important They also won last season’s pened to me because I don’t do lengthy open letter to Arsenal supporters plus an FA Cup quarter-fi nal with Shef- to know who you are working Champions League and reached that. I try to not do things which in the name of directors, players and staff . fi eld United, when some semblance of with and it’s important to know the fi nal of Europe’s elite cub make me feel better.” “He’s in good spirits, doing detailed plan- normality returns.