FFOOTBALLOOTBALL | Page 2 ATHLETICS | Page 6 Suwon grab All 32 last-16 spot as disciplines in ACL heads to 2021 Diamond knockouts League

Saturday, December 5, 2020 CRICKET Rabia II 20, 1442 AH Concussion sub GULF TIMES Chahal fi res India to win over Aussies SPORT Page 4 FOOTBALL FOCUS Napoli’s San Paolo stadium Qatar cruise past renamed to honour Bangladesh to edge Maradona closer to Asian Cup Hatem, Afif and Almoez score in the hosts’ 5-0 victory

AFC Doha In this November 26, 2020, picture, a man holds atar took a long-awaited a jersey of Diego Maradona outside the San step towards AFC Asian Paolo stadium in Naples. (AFP) Cup China 2023 qualifi ca- tion, scoring an emphatic Reuters 5-0Q win over Bangladesh at Abdullah Bengaluru, India Bin Khalifa Stadium yesterday. Abdulaziz Hatem opened the scoring before Akram Afi f and Al- talian side Napoli’s San Paolo stadium has moez Ali added two goals each as the been offi cially renamed the Diego Armando 2022 FIFA World Cup hosts took all Maradona Stadium after the late Argentina three points in 2020’s fi rst and only striker who led them to their only two Serie Asian Qualifi ers fi xture. IA titles and the UEFA Cup, the city’s council said Asia’s fi rst competitive interna- yesterday. tional match since the Covid-19 Maradona died last week after suff ering a pandemic began, the clash was at- heart attack at his home in the suburbs of Buenos tended by 1,044 socially-distanced Aires, less than a month after his 60th birthday. fans. The city council approved the resolution pro- A meeting between the Asian posed by Naples mayor Luigi de Magistris to champions and a Bangladesh side change the stadium’s name to honour the World boasting just one point from their Cup-winning great who scored 115 goals in sev- previous four Asian Qualifi ers match en years at the club. was also going to be a tough as- “I’ve been in talks with local authorities for signment for the South Asian side, the past 17 years, I’ve always asked to buy the and it took just four minutes for the stadium and rename it ‘Diego Armando Mara- alarm bells to start ringing as Qatar’s Qatar’s Abdelaziz Hatem (left) and Almoez Ali celebrate a goal during the AFC dona’,” Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis Ahmed Alaaeldin hit the post with Asian Cup China 2023 qualification match against Bangladesh at Abdullah told Sky in Italy. an early headed attempt. Bin Khalifa Stadium yesterday. (Twitter/QFA) “If then, for tradition, we will need to call Five minutes later the hosts were it both ‘San Paolo’ and ‘Maradona’ so be it. It in front, with another defl ected ef- at goal in the fi rst half underlined the dying moments. won’t change much, but it’s only right that Ma- fort, this time from the boot of Bangladesh’s task, and their cause Qatar are now well-placed to fi n- radona has this recognition. Even if we were to Hatem, leaving Anisur Rahman was made even more diffi cult when ish on top of Group E of the Asian build a whole new stadium, I would name it like helpless to prevent the ball from set- the hosts were awarded a penalty, Qualifi ers, which serve as the quali- that. tling into the net. with Ali stepping to hammer home fi cation path for both the FIFA World “Your years here remain indelible in the Afi f scored a brilliant second af- the spot-kick on the home ground of Cup Qatar 2022 and AFC Asian Cup memories of the people of Naples — symbolic ter 33 minutes, before hammering a his club side, Al Duhail. China 2023. of a coveted redemption and yearned-for resur- scorching 20-yard eff ort into Rah- He added his second of the match As FIFA World Cup hosts, Qatar rection.” man’s net, with the Bangladeshi six minutes later, as he bravely are automatic qualifi ers for the glo- Maradona signed for Napoli in 1984 and custodian once again unable to in- chested home after a terrifi c move bal showpiece, but they will confi rm helped the club conquer the northern teams tervene. involving Hatem and Ahmed Fathy their place at China 2023 as group such as Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan — Qatar’s dominance of possession to register his 29th international goal winners, or as one of the four high- Qatar’s Akram Afif celebrates his goal during the AFC Asian Cup China 2023 seen as the aristocratic establishment of Italian and tally of 18 unanswered shots before Afi f slid home Qatar’s fi fth in est-ranked runners-up. qualification match against Bangladesh yesterday. (Twitter/QFA) football, and briefl y turned Serie A on its head.

MOTORSPORT Al-Attiyah heads six-strong Toyota and Overdrive entries in Baja Hail

Agencies at the start of January 2021. be looking for outright victory Overdrive cars, the experienced Ha’il, Saudi Arabia While al-Attiyah and French on the driver’s home event. The duo hoping to strengthen their navigator Matthieu Baumel look Saudi pushed al-Attiyah and relatively new partnership before to round off the chaotic season by Carlos Sainz hard at the Andalu- tackling the Dakar together for atar’s Nasser Saleh challenging for outright victory cia Rally in southern Spain in Oc- the fi rst time. The pair worked al-Attiyah heads a in their Toyota Hilux, Ten Brinke tober and has a formidable record together in Andalucia and set six-strong Toyota and will be looking to try and clinch a in the Ha’il International Rally. some impressive times, despite a Overdrive Racing chal- fi rst ever FIA Baja title. Partnered Al-Rajhi has won that event technical issue preventing them lengeQ at a pair of forthcoming by the Belgian Tom Colsoul, Ten through the An Nafud desert on taking a potential top fi ve fi nish. back-to-back Baja Hail events Brinke will arrive in Saudi Arabia fi ve occasions (2009, 2010, 2012, The French crew of Ronan that will form the last two rounds locked in a duel for the title with 2015 and 2016) in four diff er- Chabot and Gilles Pillot com- of the radically revised 2020 FIA Russian Vladimir Vasilyev after ent vehicles. Two of those wins plete the offi cial Toyota line-up World Cup for Cross-Country the Dutchman’s impressive win came with al-Attiyah’s co-driv- in Saudi Arabia, the experienced Bajas. in Baja Portalegre last month. The er Baumel and two with Timo duo hoping for a clean run as they Al-Attiyah will drive the sole pressure will be on Ten Brinke to Gottschalk. make their fi nal preparations for Toyota Gazoo Racing entry over balance speed with a degree of Przygonski and Germany’s another Dakar outing with Over- the course of the two events in caution in a bid to clinch the pres- Gottschalk clinched the 2020 drive Racing. the deserts of north-central Sau- tigious Drivers’ title. Polish (RMPST) Cross-Coun- The closing two rounds of the di Arabia and will be joined by “Our last test for the Dakar try Championships at Wysoka FIA World Cup for Cross-Coun- Overdrive Racing entries for local will be by doing Ha’il Baja,” said Grzeda Baja Drawsko and arrive try Bajas take place over a hectic entry Yazeed al-Rajhi, the Dutch Baumel, who won events in Qatar in Saudi Arabia keen to continue seven-day period. The three-day duo of Bernhard ten Brinke and and Andalucia this season with their Dakar preparations in the Baja Hail 1 (December 10-12) will Erik van Loon, Frenchman Ronan al-Attiyah. “It’s good news that Team Orlen-supported car. The off er 592 competitive kilometres Chabot and a Team Orlen/Over- all the teams can compete in this Pole won the FIA World Cup for in a route of 890km. drive Toyota Hilux for Poland’s race, just around 15 days before Cross-Country Rallies two years Baja Hail 2 (December 14-16) Jakub Przygonski. An offi cial the start of Dakar. This is unu- ago and is sure to be challenging has a slightly shorter format and Toyota entry is yet to claim a win sual because we are not normally an impressive FIA fi eld over the off ers 479km of competition in a at the Ha’il event. allowed to test in the country of course of the two events, span- route of 780km. Most equipment The Belgium-based opera- the rally and especially 15 days due to Covid-19. rything on our new Toyota. We tion. It will be a good training for ning six competition days. will likely then stay in the Middle tion has been making pre-event before. This will be good for us to “It will be good to be there for are quite happy with Nasser to be Dakar.” Dutchman Erik Van Loon and East before teams ready them- preparations for the two Bajas in drive a little bit on the sand, as we fi ve days competing in this rally. there. It will also be good to work Al-Rajhi and German co- French co-driver Sébastien De- selves for the Dakar Rally at the Ha’il that precede the Dakar Rally did not really compete this year It will be the last check for eve- a little bit with all the naviga- driver Dirk von Zitzewitz will launay crew the fourth of the start of January. Gulf Times 2 Saturday, December 5, 2020 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Vieira sacked by Nice Suwon grab fi nal aft er run of defeats AFP Ligue 1 in his fi rst season and then Marseille fi fth place and European quali- fi cation in the last campaign, which was curtailed because of atrick Vieira has been the coronavirus pandemic. Nice sacked as coach of Nice had been hoping to build on that last-16 spot as ACL and replaced by his as- and challenge towards the top of sistant Adrian Ursea the table this season following Pfollowing a run of fi ve consecu- considerable investment from tive defeats, the French Ligue 1 the club’s owners Ineos. club announced yesterday. The The group chaired by Mona- fi nal straw for the former Ar- co-based British petrochemi- senal player and France 1998 cals billionaire Jim Ratcliff e took heads to knockouts World Cup winner was Thurs- over Nice last year, adding the day’s 3-2 defeat at home to Bayer club to a portfolio of sporting Leverkusen, which confi rmed ventures which included Swiss The South Koreans needed to win by a two-goal margin to overtake Guangzhou Nice’s elimination from the Eu- side Lausanne-Sport but also ropa League. cycling’s Team Ineos, formerly AFP Ursea will take over from Viei- Team Sky. Doha ra for at least the rest of this sea- Ineos, which has also invested son, Nice president Jean-Pierre in the Mercedes Formula One Rivere confi rmed. “That is for team and an America’s Cup sail- uwon Samsung Bluewings sure. We will have time to decide ing team, wants Nice to become grabbed the last available round- beyond that. Our ambitions and regulars in European competi- of-16 spot in the Asian Champi- our project remain the same,” tion, a status that currently ap- ons League with a 2-0 win over said Rivere. pears under threat, even if they VisselS Kobe in the competition’s fi nal The 53-year-old Romanian are only six points off the top fi ve group stage game yesterday. Ursea, who has spent much of his in Ligue 1 with a game in hand. The South Koreans needed to win by playing and coaching career in After Thursday’s defeat, which a two-goal margin to overtake China’s Switzerland, had been an assist- was their fourth in fi ve Europa Guangzhou Evergrande on goal diff erence ant to previous Nice coach Luc- League group matches, Vieira and that was exactly what they did as ien Favre and returned last year admitted he was “weakened as Kim Gun-hee and Lim Sang-Hyeob each to work under Vieira. any coach who has lost fi ve con- struck in the second half at the Khalifa “In a meeting after last night’s secutive games is”. “We are as International Stadium in Doha. match, the Nice board informed disappointed as the supporters,” Vissel Kobe were the fi rst team to Patrick Vieira of its decision to he said. qualify for the next phase in the three- put an end to their collabora- Born in Senegal, Vieira was team Group G while two-time champions tion,” the club said in a statement capped 107 times by France be- Guangzhou Evergrande had already com- confi rming the sacking. “Patrick tween 1997 and 2009. He came pleted their four matches with fi ve points Vieira put all his heart and pro- off the bench in their win over and were hoping Suwon slipped up in fessionalism into his service for Brazil in the 1998 World Cup fi - their last-gasp bid to make the cut. OGC Nice over the last two and a nal and then played a central role But Fabio Cannavaro’s frustrations half years.” in France’s victory at Euro 2000. only grew as he watched Suwon progress Appointed in 2018, Vieira had Vieira also played in the team from his bio-secure hotel room in the Qa- been under growing pressure af- that reached the World Cup fi - tari capital, capping a disappointing year ter last week’s shock home defeat nal in 2006, while at club level during which Guangzhou were dethroned by struggling Dijon left the am- he enjoyed enormous success in as Chinese Super League champions by bitious Cote d’Azur club in the nine years under Arsene Wenger fi rst-time winners Jiangsu Suning. bottom half of Ligue 1. His side at Arsenal, winning three Pre- Suwon, who lost 1-0 to Vissel Kobe had been badly hampered by the mier League titles. He is not the when they clashed in February before loss of veteran captain Dante, the only star of that France gen- the Covid-19 pandemic forced the Asian former Brazil defender, to a seri- eration to have been sacked by Football Confederation to stop proceed- ous knee injury. a Ligue 1 club in recent times: ings, had only 43-percent possession Now 44, Vieira had not worked Thierry Henry, his former col- yesterday but made good of the opportu- in France since leaving Cannes league at Arsenal, notably had a nities that came their way. for AC Milan in 1995 but joined disastrous three-month spell at Kim struck fi rst in the 49th minute Nice in June 2018 after two and a Monaco in 2018/19. with a header from an excellent corner half years in charge of MLS side Vieira has in the past stated taken by Lee-Kee-je while Lim scored New York City FC. Before that he a desire to one day return to from the penalty spot in the 68th after had been coaching the develop- manage in Italy — where he also Vissel Kobe’s Takuya Yasui handled the ment squad at Manchester City, played for Juventus and Inter ball inside the box. Suwon then hung on where he ended his playing ca- Milan — or England, but his de- tenaciously to earn a last-16 clash with reer in 2011. parture from Nice is likely to be a Yokohama F. Marinos on Monday, to the Vissel Kobe’s midfielder Takuya Yasui (left) is tackled by Suwon Samsung Bluewings’ midfielder Han Suk-Jong during the AFC Vieira took Nice to seventh in major setback to those plans. relief of coach Park Kun-ha. Champions League Group G match at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha yesterday. (AFP) “It was a diffi cult situation and I was aware of that and the players were too,” from six matches, which included just one Sung-hoon, catching the Shanghai SIPG ing already announced his intention to said Park. “We were talking for the past win. With Shanghai SIPG and Yokohama defence by surprise. As Shanghai SIPG move back to Europe after leading them couple of days that the players should not F. Marinos already in the last 16, Friday’s struggled to gain control, Jeonbuk con- to the K League title last month. give up and I think that played a role in us Group H matches were only meant to solidated their advantage, scoring from a “Today I am smiling for the eff ort of the winning today,” he added. complete the formalities. Also playing at penalty in the 32nd after another Lee pass players and because it was our last game Earlier yesterday, Jeonbuk Hyundai the Khalifa International Stadium, Jeon- found Cho, but his shirt was pulled pre- together. It’s good to end things with a Motors outclassed Shanghai SIPG with a buk were served well by Cho Gue-sung venting him from taking a shot. positive memory,” said Morais, who has 2-0 victory, a result that helped the two- whose fi rst-half double helped the South Cho fi red home with a confi dent shot worked as Jose Mourinho’s assistant at time champions from South Korea bow Koreans establish an early foothold on from the spot to give the Koreans a com- Inter Milan, Real Madrid and Chelsea. out of the competition with some pride the match against the Chinese giants who fortable cushion, which they maintained “I believe in the future of the club. intact. Sydney FC meanwhile claimed a fi elded several untested players. until the end. Jeonbuk’s Portuguese Some of the young players in the team 1-1 draw with Yokohama F. Marinos by Cho put Jeonbuk ahead in the 16th coach Jose Morias was in a positive mood have a lot of quality and I know the club holding the group toppers from Japan minute with a header from the centre of after the three points despite coming to has the right set-up to enable them to be Patrick Vieira. (Reuters) despite fi nishing bottom with fi ve points the box from a measured cross from Lee the end of his contract with the side, hav- successful.”

LIGUE 1 BUNDESLIGA Buoyant PSG lift ed by crucial Nagelsmann hopes Leipzig break goal Champions League success duck at ‘less focused’ Bayern Munich AFP AFP Bundesliga, four points behind leaders Bay- Paris Berlin ern Munich after last weekend’s shock 2-1 defeat at home to Cologne. “The news about Mats is good, we will have to see whether he aris Saint-Germain this ulian Nagelsmann says Bayern Mu- can play,” Favre said after the 2014 World week averted a crisis nich are showing signs of decline as Cup winner needed to be helped off in by beating Manchester his RB Leipzig side try to break their Wednesday’s 1-1 home draw against Lazio in United to revive their goal duck at the Allianz Arena in to- the Champions League. PChampions League campaign day’sJ top-of-the-table Bundesliga show- They want to bounce back with a fi rst win and the club’s followers might down. Second-placed Leipzig head to Mu- at mid-table Frankfurt since 2013. Favre even be getting giddy at the pos- nich two points behind leaders Bayern, who confi rmed striker Erling Braut Haaland will sibility of seeing Lionel Messi in have not lost at home in any competition not play again this year after tearing a leg the French capital next season. for over a year. “In some situations, Bayern muscle. The 20-year-old had posted on In- Neymar scored twice in Man- don’t seem quite as keen, no longer quite as stagram he had “good news. I have spoken to chester and then publicly stated focused,” due to this season’s dense fi xture my doctor and will be back soon” but Favre his wish to team up again with list, Nagelsmann said yesterday. Nagels- 1-0 before holding Bayern to a goalless draw put the brakes on hopes of a quick return. his old Barcelona teammate next mann’s men then host Manchester United in Munich last February. “When you fol- “He is defi nitely out until January — which season, saying: “I want to play on Tuesday with a last 16 place in the Cham- low it logically, it could be that we will win,” is what the doc said,” Favre confi rmed. with him for sure, next year we pions League at stake. joked Nagelsmann. Favre left open who will replace Haaland have to do it.” First up, Leipzig will try to earn their fi rst The 33-year-old was full of praise for up front against Frankfurt after captain With Messi having spent the win in Munich at the fi fth attempt having counterpart Hansi Flick and said he was “a Marco Reus slotted in against Lazio. Yous- last close season trying to engi- yet to score at the Allianz Arena. Leipzig can very, very fi ne bloke.” He steered Munich to soufa Moukoko — who last month became neer a move away from Barcelo- usurp Bayern as league leaders, “but that last season’s treble, but says Leipzig can not the youngest player in Bundesliga history na, who are suff ering badly from doesn’t mean we are on an equal footing,” aff ord to have too much respect for the Ba- aged 16 years, one day — could make his fi rst the economic impact of the coro- insisted Nagelsmann. “We have a good plan, varians. “We want to be courageous and take start. However, “we shouldn’t forget that navirus, Neymar perhaps feels Paris Saint-Germain’s players celebrate after their win over the boys are up for it, but it will still be very something from the game — the best case is he is only just 16 — he is good, but we have a reunion in Paris is more likely Manchester United in the Champions League on Wednesday. (AFP) diffi cult,” Nagelsmann added. three points, but you can’t guarantee that es- other options,” Favre added. than his return to the Camp Nou. Bayern striker Robert Lewandowski, who pecially against with the record champions.” The Swiss boss said Dortmund will be Meanwhile PSG are pondering League,” Neymar told Brazil’s Es- Montpellier, though, are without has already scored 15 goals this season, and In Munich, Flick returned the compli- without defender Thomas Meunier and how to deal with Neymar’s con- porte Interativo. However, Tuchel their top scorer Andy Delort after goalkeeper Manuel Neuer were both rested ment by praising Nagelsmann, who took defensive midfi elder Thomas Delaney who tract, and that of Kylian Mbappe, warned: “We have almost quali- he tested positive for coronavi- for Tuesday’s 1-1 draw at Atletico Madrid Leipzig to the semi-fi nals of the Champi- are both carrying injuries. However, winger which both expire in 2022. The fi ed, which means we have not rus for the second time in three in preparation. Leipzig striker Alexander ons League in August. Leipzig have “gone Raphael Guerreiro and midfi elder Emre Can Qatar-owned club are also feel- qualifi ed yet. That is the reality.” months. Sorloth, who turns 25 today, is chasing his through an unbelievable development” and could feature after regaining fi tness. ing the eff ects of the pandemic, Last season’s Champions fi rst Bundesliga goal after fi nally ending his under Nagelsmann’s stewardship they “play which has slashed ticket rev- League runners-up are a work in drought in the Champions League. very variable football. I value him very much FIXTURES (KICK-OFFS GMT) FIXTURES (ALL TIMES 1430GMT enue in particular, with games progress and they have allowed After 10 games without fi nding the back as a coach,” said Flick. UNLESS STATED) Today: Rennes v Lens (1600), in France being played behind the chasing domestic pack to of the net, the Norway forward was hugely Today: Freiburg v Borussia Moenchengla- closed doors. Qualifying for the catch up. A loss at Monaco and Montpellier v Paris Saint-Ger- relieved to claim Leipzig’s last-gasp winner DORTMUND’S HUMMELS SHAKES OFF main (2000) dbach, Eintracht Frankfurt v Borussia Dort- Champions League last 16 would a draw with Bordeaux in their at Basaksehir Istanbul on Wednesday. “Ba- ANKLE KNOCK TO FACE EINTRACHT mund, Cologne v VfL Wolfsburg, Arminia provide a fi nancial boost. last two matches have left PSG Tomorrow: Lille v Monaco sically, it would be nice if he could score an- Borussia Dortmund coach Lucien Favre said Bielefeld v Mainz 05, Bayern München v RB Thomas Tuchel’s team only just two points clear of Lille, (1200), Angers v Lorient, other one,” added Nagelsmann after Sorloth on Friday defender Mats Hummels has re- Leipzig (1730) require a draw at home to Istan- Lyon, Monaco and Montpellier Bordeaux v Brest, Dijon v Saint- had a penalty attempt saved in last week- covered from the ankle injury suff ered in bul Basaksehir next week to seal in Ligue 1. PSG go to Montpellier Etienne, Nantes v Strasbourg (all end’s home win against Arminia Bielefeld. midweek quicker than expected and could Tomorrow: Werder Bremen v VfB Stuttgart, their progress. “I didn’t come this weekend knowing a defeat 1400), Reims v Nice (1600), Metz Curiously on their four previous games at feature in today’s Bundesliga trip to Eintra- Schalke 04 v Bayer Leverkusen (1700) to Paris to play in the Europa would knock them off top spot. v Lyon (2000) the Allianz Arena, Leipzig lost 3-0, 2-0 and cht Frankfurt. Dortmund are fourth in the On Monday: Hoff enheim v Augsburg (1930) Gulf Times Saturday, December 5, 2020 3 FOOTBALL

EUROPA LEAGUE SERIE A Juventus tried to ‘speed up’ Arsenal win on fans’ Suarez naturalisation, say prosecutors

Reuters Milan return to top level erie A champions Juven- tus yesterday said their sporting director Fabio Paratici had been placed underS criminal investigation over the alleged attempt to speed up procedures to gain Italian citizenship for Uruguay striker football in England Luis Suarez. Suarez, whose wife is of Italian descent, passed the exam in Sep- Spurs secure a place in the knockout rounds after struggling to a draw in Linz tember at the University for For- eigners in Perugia as part of the AFP naturalisation process needed London for his potential transfer to the Serie A champions. Juventus, who hoped to sign or the fi rst time in 270 days, him from Barcelona needed him fans were back inside a Premier to acquire Italian citizenship to League ground as Arsenal wel- avoid exceeding their permitted comed 2,000 supporters into quota of non-EU players, but theF Emirates for Thursday’s routine 4-1 suspicions were quickly raised Europa League win over Rapid Vienna. in the media that he was given The sparse crowd in a 60,000 capacity preferential treatment. stadium were well distanced between In a statement, Juventus de- two stands and in high spirits despite nied any wrongdoing and said the Gunners’ poor form of late in the they were confi dent investiga- English top-fl ight. tion would soon clarify Paratici’s “I’m delighted to have fans back they position. A statement by Perugia make a huge diff erence,” said Arsenal chief prosecutor Raff aele Can- coach Mikel Arteta. “We had 2,000 but tone said that Juventus manage- they were loud and they were support- ment “took action, even at the ive to the team so thanks to them for highest institutional levels, to coming and making the eff ort.” ‘speed up’ the granting of Italian Arsenal’s last home match with a citizenship for Suarez.” crowd was back in March prior to a “It emerged that the contents three-month stoppage of the sport of the test had been communi- due to the pandemic. Since returning cated in advance to the player in June, English top-fl ight football has himself and the result and the been played behind closed doors with score of the exam had been pre- Arsenal fans missing out on seeing their determined in order to corre- side win the FA Cup and Community spond to the requests made by Shield at Wembley. Juventus,” the prosecutor state- Despite Arsenal having already ment said. booked their place in the Europa League Four university offi cials were knockout stages, demand from fans to suspended for eight months as be one of the lucky few back through the a precautionary measure. The gates crashed the club website on Sat- university has denied wrongdo- urday morning. Club mascot Gunner- ing. The prosecutors said they saurus was also back after the contro- were still investigating whether versy that saw the club employee, Jerry “individuals other than those Quy, who played the role since 1993, let belonging to the university” may go amid cost-cutting measures before have committed an off ence. Arsenal midfi elder Mesut Ozil stepped Suarez, 33, obtained the inter- in to cover his salary. mediate B1 qualifi cation required Playing an entire season without Arsenal fans celebrate after Alexandre Lacazette (right) scored against Rapid Vienna during the Europa League match in London on Thursday night. (Reuters) for citizenship in 15 minutes, his crowds would cost Premier League examiner said after the test, hav- clubs an estimated £700mn ($941mn) solation for the Austrians drew panto- In Linz, the hosts dominated the fi rst not keep the lead. Young Frenchman with. Lille losing to 10-man The Turkey ing only done the oral part of the and the need to make the most of the mime boos from the crowd. Substitute half but only scored once, through Peter Mamoudou Karamoko smashed in an striker poked home the equaliser three exam. Suarez was eventually fans’ return was evident with Arsenal’s Emile Smith Rowe rounded off the scor- Michorl. Spurs, who had not managed a equaliser from outside the box in added minutes later and smashed in the win- signed by Atletico Madrid while “Armoury” club shop reopened. The ing on a night that will be best remem- shot on target, won a penalty for hand- time. The draw was enough to put Tot- ner four minutes after that. Juventus signed Alvaro Morata atmosphere inspired a much-changed bered for what happened off the field. ball in added time. Gareth Bale convert- tenham through and next week they will Celtic’s neighbours city Rangers, to strengthen their attack. side on the fi eld as Arteta looked ahead Meanwhile, Premier League leaders ed for his 200th career goal. host Antwerp, who beat Ludogorets 3-1, advanced with 3-2 home victory over of tomorrow’s North London derby Tottenham struggled to gain the draw Son Heung-min put Spurs ahead on with fi rst place at stake. Standard Liege. The Belgians, who need against Premier League leaders Totten- they needed in Linz, fi nishing 3-3 on the counter attack in the 56th minute. In Group H, AC Milan fell two goals to win, took the lead twice in the fi rst ham. Spurs were the target of the fi rst Thursday thanks to two penalties, to se- With Linz still threatening, coach Jose behind at home to eliminated Celtic half, but James Tavernier hit a penalty chants once the action got underway, cure a place in the knock-out rounds of Mourinho made a series of defensive but rallied to win 4-2 and advance. Tom just before half time. Scott Arfi eld won showing some things never change no the Europa League. The result in Austria substitutions. Tottenham had three Rogic and Odsonne Edouard scored for the game in the 65th minute, running matter the circumstances. ensured that Antwerp will also advance centre backs, three full backs and two the visitors in the fi rst 14 minutes, but onto a pull back to end a crisp move with There was soon something to cheer from Group J. Elsewhere, Braga, AC Mi- defensive midfi elders on the fi eld by the Hakan Calhanoglu and Samuel Cas- a precise low drive. as Alexandre Lacazette smashed in a lan, Lille, Villarreal, Dinamo Zagreb, 84th minute when Johannes Eggestein tillejo responded with two quick goals The tightest group is F where Alk- stunning long-range strike top open the Red Star Belgrade, Slavia Prague, Bayer still found a huge hole and lashed in a midway through the half. Jens Petter maar fought back to draw 1-1 with Na- scoring on 10 minutes and ran to cel- Leverkusen, Rangers, Benfi ca, Granada shot that Joe Hart reached but could Hauger and Brahim Diaz, with a clever poli and La Liga leaders Real Sociedad ebrate in front of the fans. Pablo Mari and Eindhoven ensured their places not keep out. Three minutes later, Spurs chip, struck in the second half. came from behind twice to draw at quickly headed home a second on his in the last 32 with one round of group regained the lead. One of the two at- Milan are second in the group, one home with Rijeka, who picked up their fi rst appearance since March. games still to play. They join Leicester, tacking players, Steven Bergwijn was point behind Lille who also came from fi rst point. The Italians lead by two Eddie Nketiah added a third before Arsenal, Hoff enheim and Roma who tripped to earn a penalty and the other, behind to win at home. Burak Yilmaz points from Sociedad and Alkmaar and half-time before Kohya Kitagawa’s con- had already qualifi ed. Dele Alli, swept it home. Spurs could came off the bench in the 77th minute host the Basques next week.

PREMIER LEAGUE JAPAN TO HOST FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP IN 2021 Lausanne: Japan will host the Club World before, most recently in 2016. we awarded the hosting rights to Japan,” Spurs’ Mourinho says no danger Cup in its existing format in late 2021, FIFA A lucrative, revamped 24-team Club Infantino said following a FIFA Council president Gianni Infantino announced World Cup, including eight sides from meeting yesterday. yesterday, with his expanded version of Europe, was due to be played in China next It means there will be one representa- of complacency against Arsenal the tournament still on hold for now after year, but the expanded competition will tive each from Europe, South America, being postponed due to the coronavirus not now start until a later date after the North and Central America, Africa, Asia AFP Harry Kane will be fi t for the north pandemic. delayed Euro 2020 and the Copa America and Oceania, with the Japanese champions London London derby even though his It means there will be two Club World were pencilled in for next June and July. completing the line-up. star striker missed Tottenham’s Cups in the same year, with Qatar hosting “Due to the Covid-19 situation, which has Bayern Munich will represent Europe at Europa League trip to Linz. The the 2020 edition between February 1 and led to the postponement of the revamped the February competition in Qatar, where ose Mourinho says Pre- 27-year-old England captain is 11 before another seven-team edition goes new Club World Cup...we’ve decided to the Germans will be looking to succeed mier League leaders Tot- undergoing treatment for an un- ahead in Japan in December. Japan has organise a Club World Cup in the current Liverpool, winners of the last Club World tenham will not need to specifi ed injury and failed to train hosted the Club World Cup eight times format again in 2021 in December and Cup in Doha a year ago. be warned about compla- on the eve of Thursday’s game in cencyJ ahead of tomorrow’s north Austria. “I believe he’s going to be London derby despite Arsenal’s fi t,” Mourinho said. “I’m not sure, poor recent form. The Portu- he’s on treatment. But I could be LA LIGA guese manager criticised mem- now doing some bluff or trying to bers of his squad following the pretend that he’s in big trouble. 3-3 draw with LASK in the Eu- He’s not in big trouble. I believe ropa League on Thursday. he’s going to play.” Coach Koeman says Messi and money He believes some players have we all know that a derby is noth- Elsewhere, third-placed lacked motivation during the ing to do with form, momentum, Chelsea host Leeds while Jur- group stages of the competition, injuries, suspensions. It’s noth- gen Klopp’s Liverpool welcome talk at Barcelona ‘do not help the team’ but there will be no shortage of ing to do with that. It’s just Tot- Wolves to Anfi eld. High-fl ying incentive this weekend when tenham v Arsenal.” West Ham are going for a third AFP in the summer. are widely believed to be the main suitors. Mikel Arteta’s team travel to face Spectators will be back at the straight home Premier League Barcelona Economically speaking, it would have Asked if he would like to have Messi and Spurs. The Gunners are 14th in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium victory over Manchester United, been desirable”. Messi made an attempt to Neymar playing together for Barca, Koeman the Premier League, eight points for the fi rst time in nine months who have climbed the table after leave Barcelona this summer before backing said: “I don’t like to talk about individual behind Tottenham, but just four when Arsenal visit but just 2,000 three straight wins. arcelona coach Ronald Koeman down, although he is free to leave next year. but as a club, as a coach, as a Barcelona fan, months ago they clinched the FA will be allowed in due to corona- yesterday expressed his irritation Koeman said he considered Tusquets’ you always want to have the best players in Cup at Wembley. virus limits. Asked if the backing FIXTURES (ALL TIMES GMT) with interim president Carles Tus- statements “a personal opinion and I respect the world.” of the sparse crowd could lift his Tusquets also warned that the club’s fi - “I think everybody knows Today: Burnley v Everton (1230), quets who the day before said the any opinion, but Leo has this season with what Arsenal did recently, the players, Mourinho pointed out it clubB had fi nancial problems and should have Barca and he will decide his future. Hope- nances, stretched by the lack of spectators Manchester City v Fulham (1500), way they beat Chelsea (in the would depend on which type of sold Lionel Messi in the summer. “The com- fully it will be here”. due to the coronavirus pandemic, meant fi nal) and (Manchester) City to supporter was there. West Ham v Manchester United ments from outside do not interest me and “We know Leo’s situation and he is the players will not be paid in January. Koeman win the FA Cup,” Mourinho said. “If they want to enjoy the sta- (1730), Chelsea v Leeds (2000) those from inside the club do not help us to one who must decide his future. I don’t said “the players and I as coach have reached “The way they played in Liver- dium and their passion for foot- Tomorrow: West Brom v Crystal have the tranquility to do our job, which is to know any more about fi gures, it’s not my an agreement with the club”. pool in spite of defeat, the way ball, I don’t think it makes a big Palace (1200), Sheff ield Utd v win the games,” Koeman said at a press con- job. My job is to prepare the team, play well Although Barcelona have been imperious they beat (Manchester) United at diff erence,” he said. “If they want Leicester (1415), Tottenham v ference ahead of today’s Liga game against and win,” said Koeman. in the Champions League, they are strug- Old Traff ord, the way they nor- to go there and play, wear a Tot- Arsenal (1630), Liverpool v Wolves Cadiz. “We cannot control the statements Tusquets ruled out buying back the Bra- gling in La Liga and ravel to Cadiz in sev- mally play against the top teams.” tenham shirt and play the game, (1915) from outside, but those from inside the club, zilian, but Messi will be a free agent when enth place, 10 points behind leaders Real He added: “I don’t think I need that can give a little ore motiva- I believe that it is diff erent,” he said. his contract expires in June. PSG are one of Sociedad. “The season is still long,” said On Monday: Brighton v to (warn the players about com- tion and pleasure for us, yes.” Tusquets said on Thursday that “eco- the candidates to lure the Argentine away Koeman.”But we cannot aff ord to lose more placency). But probably I will... Mourinho is confi dent that Southampton (2000) nomically speaking, I would have sold Messi from Camp Nou although Manchester City points”. Gulf Times 4 Saturday, December 5, 2020 CRICKET

T20 SPOTLIGHT SA-England ODI postponed aft er Concussion sub ‘bubble’ breach

AFP that both squads were staying in Cape Town the same hotel in Cape Town, near the Newlands ground. “England is questioning the outh Africa’s team doc- confi dence they have in the bio- Chahal fi res India tor said yesterday he was secure environment — and right- concerned about a possible fully so. We respect that concern Sbreach of the team’s bio- and have met with the England secure ‘bubble’ after the fi rst one- medical teams,” he said. day international against England Ashley Giles, managing director was postponed because a South of England men’s cricket, said the African player tested positive for health and safety of the England Covid-19. The postponement an- players and management was the to win over Aussies nouncement was made just over an number one priority. hour before yesterday’s day-night “The England party will remain match was due to start at New- at is base in Cape Town on Friday Jadeja injured as visitors go 1-0 up in three-match series; Finch also hurt lands in Cape Town. and Saturday and we are hopeful Dr Shuaib Manjra said he was that the three-match series will “surprised” by the positive test. be played before we depart next New tests will now be conduct- Thursday,” Giles said in a state- ed today ahead of what is now ment. Dr Manjra dismissed what a planned as the opening encounter team spokesperson said was a ru- in the three-match series in Paarl mour that at least one South Afri- tomorrow. There would be fur- can player had left the hotel with- ther tests after the planned second out authorisation. match in Cape Town on Monday, “I can categorically state that ahead of the scheduled fi nal match no player would be able to leave on Wednesday. the hotel environment,” the doc- “We will re-test all our players tor said. He said there was strict and hotel staff on Saturday and security, supervised by a police await the results and determine a colonel: “It is impossible to leave course of action,” he said. except in an offi cial vehicle with He did not speculate on whether an offi cial driver.” It was previously the three matches would be able to announced there had been two go ahead if there were further posi- positive tests in the South Afri- tive tests. can camp after they assembled on “This test has surprised us be- November 18. The infected play- cause we had confi dence in the ers were placed in isolation at the bio-secure environment,” said Dr team hotel and were said by team Manjra. He said the new infection management to have recovered had occurred since the players and and to be available for the one-day staff went into what was regarded series after missing a three-match as a secure ‘bubble’ ahead of the Twenty20 series. series. “There has been some kind The tour by England is the South of breach which we’ve investigated African team’s fi rst experience of in great detail to try and determine being in a bio-secure bubble but where this happened, by speaking England, who fl ew to South Africa to the player and looking at secu- on a chartered fl ight, successfully rity camera footage.” hosted teams from West Indies, Manjra admitted that the Eng- Pakistan and Australia this year land camp had expressed concern without any players being infected.

Pakistan have training exemption revoked due to Covid-19 positives Yuzvendra Chahal (second from left) is all smiles as Indian players celebrate their win over Australian in their first T20 match at the Manuka Oval in Canberra yesterday. Wellington: The Pakistan the touring team.” Reuters home side began its chase at opening Test in Adelaide on SCORECARD cricket team have had their Under the exemption the squad Canberra Manuka Oval. Dec. 17. Jadeja called for a exemption to train during would have been allowed to Legspinner Chahal rubbed trainer in the 19th over as he INDIA INNINGS AUSTRALIA INNINGS managed isolation in Christch- train in small groups from the salt into Australia’s wounds struggled to bat with his in- KL Rahul c Abbott b Henriques 51 A. Finch c Pandya b Chahal 35 urch withdrawn due to several fourth day of their mandatory oncussion substitute by removing captain Aaron jury but he gathered himself members of the squad testing 14-day isolation until they were Yuzvendra Chahal Finch for 35 and star batsman to hammer 24 runs off the last S. Dhawan b Starc 1 D. Short c Pandya b Natarajan 34 positive for the novel coronavi- released next week. took three wickets as Steve Smith for 12 in quick seven balls faced in his un- V. Kohli c and b Swepson 9 S. Smith c Samson b Chahal 12 rus, New Zealand’s Ministry of The initial positive tests that CIndia beat Australia succession to swing the mo- beaten 44. Australia were also S. Samson c Swepson b G. Maxwell lbw Natarajan 2 Health said yesterday. were discovered upon their by 11 runs in the fi rst Twen- mentum back to India. left counting the cost, with Henriques 23 Eight members of the 53-strong arrival, however, prompted ty20 match in Canberra yes- He returned to dismiss Mat- Finch suff ering a muscle in- M. Henriques lbw Chahar 30 Pakistan squad have tested Bloomfield to temporarily M. Pandey c Hazlewood b Zampa 2 terday but the win was soured thew Wade for seven with jury in the fi eld and hobbling M. Wade c Kohli b Chahal 7 positive for the virus since arriv- suspend the exemption until by an apparent hamstring the last ball of his quota, the between wickets during his H. Pandya c Smith b Henriques 16 S. Abbott not out 12 ing in New Zealand. the Health Ministry completes injury to all-rounder Ravin- wicketkeeper slog-sweeping knock. Australia have already R. Jadeja not out 44 “I have very carefully consid- an investigation. dra Jadeja. In a contest laced to captain Virat Kohli at deep lost opener David Warner to M. Starc b Natarajan 1 ered this situation,” Director- The squad were also warned for W. Sundar c Abbott b Starc 7 with controversy, Jadeja top- midwicket. “Obviously it’s a a groin injury for the T20 se- M. Swepson not out 12 General of Health Ashley breaching bio-security regula- edged into his helmet in the great feeling,” Chahal beamed ries and all-rounder Marcus D. Chahar not out 0 Bloomfield said in a statement. tions last week. Extras (lb4, w1) 5 fi nal over but was not tested after being named man-of- Stoinis has been recovering Extras (lb2, nb1, w5) 8 “At this time, I continue to have Pakistan were scheduled to for concussion on the fi eld at the-match. “It’s my pleasure to from a soft tissue injury. Total (for 7 wickets) 150 ongoing concerns about the have a four-day game starting Total (for 7 wickets, 20 overs) 161 Manuka Oval. take their wickets. They know Opener Lokesh Rahul Fall of wickets: 1-56 (Finch), 2-72 risk of cross-infection within the on Dec 10 against New Zealand He ended up scoring a valu- the conditions very well and I scored a sparkling 51 off 40 Fall of wickets: 1-11 (Dhawan), 2-48 (Smith), 3-75 (Maxwell), 4-113 (Short), squad. ‘A’ upon their release from isola- (Kohli), 3-86 (Samson), 4-90 (Pan- able nine runs off the last bowled according to my plans.” balls and left-arm seamer T 5-122 (Wade), 6-126 (Henriques), “There have been a number tion, but opted instead to play a dey), 5-92 (Rahul), 6-114 (Pandya), three deliveries to push his India claimed their second Natajaran took 3-30 for the 7-127 (Starc) of active cases identified series of intra-squad matches, team to a defendable total of successive win of the tour tourists, who ended up cruis- 7-152 (Sundar) among the team. Public health New Zealand Cricket said on Did not bat: A. Zampa, J. Hazlewood 161 for seven. Jadeja, however, after beating Australia in the ing to victory despite a mixed Did not bat: M. Shami, T. Natarajan considerations will continue to Thursday. was ruled out during the in- third one-day international display in the fi eld, with Finch Bowling: Chahar 4-0-29-1, Sundar be foremost in our response to The tourists are due to play Bowling: Starc 4-0-34-2 (2w), Hazle- nings break, and Australia on Wednesday. But they will dropped twice in successive Covid-19, whether this involves three Twenty20 internation- wood 4-0-39-0 (1nb), Zampa 4-0- 4-0-16-0, Shami 4-0-46-0, Chahal coach Justin Langer had a anxiously await the progno- balls. The second of the three- individuals or teams. als and two tests from Dec 18, 20-1, Abbott 2-0-23-0 (1w), Swepson 4-0-25-3 (1w), Natarajan 4-0-30-0 heated argument with match sis for Jadeja’s injury less than match series is in Sydney to- “We appreciate the challenges while a Pakistan ‘A’ tour will also 2-0-21-1, Henriques 4-0-22-3 (1w) Result: India win by 11 runs referee David Boon before the two weeks before the series- morrow. that this decision will have for be held concurrently.

BOTTOMLINE West Indies win ‘spirit of cricket’ award London: Cricket West Indies yesterday: “In a year when have won the 2020 ‘Christo- cricket has brought us much Williamson’s double ton sets West Indies huge target pher Martin-Jenkins Spirit of solace, it is entirely fitting that Cricket Award’ in recognition Cricket West Indies and their AFP Three overs later, once Kyle SCOREBOARD of their decision to send both men’s and women’s teams Hamilton Jamieson reached his half-cen- men’s and women’s teams on should be recognised for the tury, Williamson declared. tours of England during the courage of their decision to The tall Jamieson, with his NEW ZEALAND 1ST INNINGS coronavirus pandemic, it was tour England, an act which ew Zealand captain unbeaten 51, is proving a solid T. Latham b Roach 86 announced yesterday. truly embodies the Spirit of Kane Williamson hit performer in his third Test out- W. Young b Gabriel 5 The West Indies’ men’s Test se- Cricket. the highest Test score ing and was the only other bats- ries, which started in July, saw The former Sri Lanka captain Nof his career yesterday man to add signifi cantly to the K. Williamson c Chase b Joseph 251 international cricket resume added: “The whole cricket- with a majestic 251 as the hosts New Zealand total on day two. R. Taylor c Brooks b Gabriel 38 for the first time since Covid-19 ing world appreciates the posted an imposing 519 for seven Ross Taylor, who was 31 not H. Nicholls c Holder b Roach 7 brought the global schedule to lengths that both they and declared on day two of the fi rst out overnight, could only add a grinding halt. the ECB (England and Wales Test against the West Indies in seven before he was caught be- T. Blundell lbw Gabriel 14 England won a three-match Cricket Board) went to so that Hamilton. In reply, the injury- hind by Shamarh Brooks who D. Mitchell c Holder b Roach 9 contest 2-1 but without the cricket could be played at the hit West Indies were 49 without took over the gloves from the in- K. Jamieson not out 51 willingness of Jason Holder’s height of the pandemic, and loss with John Campbell on 22 jured Shane Dowrich. tourists to live in bio-secure their contribution should be and Kraigg Brathwaite on 20 af- Henry Nicholls’ low-scoring T. Southee not out 11 bubbles in Manchester and remembered warmly. ter cautiously negotiating the 26 streak continued when he went Extras (b11, lb23, nb12, w1) 47 Southampton, the series would The CMJ Spirit of Cricket overs to stumps. for seven, extending his run Total (7 wkts, 145 overs) 519 not have gone ahead. award was created in 2013 by After two months playing in without a half-century to 13 in- Meanwhile the West Indies MCC and the BBC in memory the same Indian Premier League nings. Tom Blundell supported To bat: N. Wagner, T. Boult women’s team, led by Stafanie of the late former MCC presi- team just like West Indies skip- Williamson for more than 90 Fall of wickets: 1-14 (Young), 2-168 Taylor, stepped in at late notice dent and BBC Test Match Spe- per Jason Holder, Williamson, minutes but made only 14, while (Latham), 3-251 (Taylor), 4-281 to play England in a five-match cial commentator Christopher 30, slipped seamlessly back into New Zealand’s captain Kane Williamson celebrates reaching his Daryl Mitchell could only add (Nicholls), 5-353 (Blundell), 6-409 T20 international series in Martin-Jenkins, known by his the strict demands of the red- double century against the West Indies in Hamilton yesterday. nine with Tim Southee not out (Mitchell), 7-503 (Williamson) September, following the initials ‘CMJ’. ball game. He was thrust into the for 11 at the close. Bowling: Roach 30-7-114-3 cancellation of the hosts’ previ- Holder’s men won a similar Test after fi ve overs and over the Zealand record to 22 Test centu- the delivery was a no-ball. For the West Indies, Gabriel (3nb), Gabriel, 25-6-89-3 (8nb), ously scheduled matches. award from the Cricket Writers’ next 10 hours and 24 minutes he ries, three more than team-mate It was Alzarri Joseph who fi - took three for 89, Kemar Roach Award organisers the BBC and Club in October. Holder 31-12-60-0 (1nb), Joseph faced 412 deliveries, caressing Ross Taylor. The fi rst signs that nally removed the New Zealand took three for 114 and Joseph one MCC also expressed “their Johnny Grave, the English 31-8-99-1 (1w), Chase 25-0-109-0, the ball to all points as he picked Williamson was thinking of de- talisman with his sole wicket of for 99. admiration for the Pakistan chief executive of Cricket West Brathwaite 3-0-14-0 the deliveries that needed to be claring came when he sharply the innings, a short delivery that Usual fi rst drop Darren Bravo Cricket Board, Cricket Ireland Indies chief executive Johnny played and rarely touched any- lifted the scoring rate after pass- Williamson mistimed and was did not fi eld yesterday because West Indies XI: Kraigg and Cricket Australia for over- Grave said he was proud this thing else. ing 200. His next 51 came off 42 caught at mid-wicket by Roston of an Achilles heel strain and is Brathwaite, John Campbell, Dar- coming logistical challenges to latest honour recognised the Williamson’s third double deliveries. In one Kemar Roach Chase. He walked off to a stand- expected to bat down the order ren Bravo, Jermaine Blackwood, send their men’s teams to play eff orts their teams had made century, eclipsing his unbeaten over he smacked two fours and ing ovation and with the West at seven, while regular ‘keeper Shamarh Brooks, Roston Chase, England”. “to ensure that international 242 against Sri Lanka nearly six a six before being given out on Indies players rushing over to Dowrich did not take part on day Shane Dowrich, Jason Holder MCC president Kumar San- cricket returned safely to the years ago, included 34 fours and 222, caught behind, only to be congratulate him on a masterful two because of a hand injury and (capt), Kemar Roach, Alzarri gakkara said in a statement global stage”. two sixes. It extended his New recalled when replays showed performance. may not bat at all. Joseph, Shannon Gabriel. Gulf Times Saturday, December 5, 2020 5 SPORT

NFL MLB Former affi liate fi les suit against Yankees Packers present day, the Staten Island club, which Reuters New York, United States used the Yankees nickname, said their former major league af- fi liate had “made assurances we he minor-league base- would always be a minor league ball club in Staten Island partner.” announced on Thurs- The Staten Island club said it day it intends to cease had no intentions of fi elding a huge challenge for Toperations and said it has fi led “subpar team” with players that a lawsuit against the New York were not affi liated with the Yan- Yankees and Major League Base- kees. The team played at 7,171-seat ball after the major-league club Richmond County Bank Ballpark. ended its affi liation. The club said that a lawsuit was With the minor leagues un- fi led Thursday and that a portion dergoing a massive restructur- of any potential settlement or ing across the country that is jury award would be given to local struggling Eagles expected to eliminate several Staten Island charities. The Staten clubs, the Yankees announced in Island club has operated since November they would be cutting 1999 and has only been an affi liate Eagles have lost three straight and the off ence has been sputtering under QB Wentz their ties with their longtime of the Yankees. The club has won Single-A affi liate. six New York-Penn League cham- AFP In a statement released Thurs- pionships, the most recent in 2011. Los Angeles, United States

he Philadelphia Eagles Rams, Chargers discuss stadium are in a desperate situ- alternatives with NFL: report ation heading into third week 13 game against The Rams and Chargers are discussing their stadium options Tthe Green Bay Packers, but coach for the rest of the season should they be forced out of the Los Doug Pederson says he’s not Angeles area because of Covid-19 restrictions, Yahoo Sports about to start pointing fi ngers. reported yesterday. Last week, Santa Clara County banned pro The Eagles have lost three and college teams from practising or playing games, forcing the straight and the off ence has been San Francisco 49ers to play their home games in Arizona. Now, sputtering under quarterback with Covid-19 cases continuing to rise in Southern California, the Carson Wentz. But even though Rams and Chargers need a backup to SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, the situation might look bleak to California. The home stadiums of the Las Vegas Raiders and Dal- some, they are not far from the las Cowboys have been mentioned as potential home sites for the top of the NFC East Division. two Los Angeles teams. SoFi Stadium opened this season and has “You know me, I’m not go- yet to host fans. The teams have a combined six games left on ing to sit here and throw people their home schedules. under the bus,” Pederson said. “Guys just have to understand Raptors add Finch, Mahlalela to the sense of urgency that it takes to play a game and to prepare not coaching staff only coaching, but also players. It’s a long season. The season is Chris Finch and Jama Mahlalela joined Toronto Raptors head a grind.” coach Nick Nurse’s staff yesterday as assistant coaches. Finch With a record of 3-7-1, the spent the past three seasons as an assistant coach with the New Eagles are hoping Wentz can Orleans Pelicans, including last season as associate head coach. somehow pull them through He was an assistant with the Denver Nuggets (2016-17) and when they visit the Packers in Houston Rockets (2011-16) before joining the Pelicans. Mahlalela Wisconsin. coached Raptors 905 in the NBA G League the past two seasons, It’s a match-up with vastly compiling a 51-42 record. He was an assistant with Toronto for five diff erent quarterback situations. seasons (2014-18) before coaching the franchise’s G League team. Green Bay is riding the reliable In a corresponding move, the team announced that Patrick Mu- Aaron Rodgers, who is coming tombo will replace Mahlalela as the head coach for Raptors 905. off a four-touchdown perform- Brittni Donaldson and John Bennett will join Mutombo’s staff . ance against the Chicago Bears. In this November 29, 2020, picture, Aaron Rodgers (right) of the Green Bay Packers hands the ball to Aaron Jones during a game against the The confi dence level is much Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, United States. The Philadelphia Eagles are in a desperate situation heading into their NHL considering mid-January start higher for the Packers, who can week 13 game against the Green Bay Packers, but coach Doug Pederson says he’s not about to start pointing fingers. (AFP) improve to 9-3 with a victory date: reports over the Eagles. about that, as happy as I am to- play an undrafted rookie wide in a 27-24 victory last week at season’s fi rst division matchup, Rodgers turned 37 on day to still be here.” receiver at quarterback after all Tampa Bay, where he set a Chiefs 43-16, on October 25. The NHL is now considering a mid-January start date for an Wednesday but is showing no Kansas City quarterback of their QBs were placed on the record with six receptions of Mitchell Trubisky will be abbreviated 56-game regular season, multiple outlets reported signs of slowing down. Patrick Mahomes looks to con- Covid-19 list. It is no surprise 20-plus yards. Hill ranks second Chicago’s starting quarterback yesterday. The league and NHL Players’ Association discussed “I just feel really fortunate tinue his dazzling season when the New Orleans Saints battered in the NFL in receiving yardage against the Detroit Lions tomor- multiple options for the upcoming campaign Thursday night. The to have grown up here and just the Chiefs host the Denver the Broncos 31-3. with 1,021 yards. row. Jan. 1 start date both sides had been shooting for is no longer have a lot of great memories that Broncos tomorrow. Mahomes leads the league Kansas City starting corner- Trubisky started in place of realistic given the time needed for training camp and other prepa- I’ve made here that I’ll take with With a win the Chiefs (10-1) with 3,497 yards, with 30 touch- back Bashaud Breeland missed Nick Foles last Sunday against rations. TSN reported that Jan. 15 or 16 is a more likely target, with me one day,” Rodgers said. can clinch at least a share of their downs against two interceptions practice Wednesday with an ill- the Green Bay Packers and passed the NHL looking to wrap up the Stanley Cup Final by early July. A “Hopefully that day isn’t too fi fth straight AFC West title. in 423 attempts. ness but he is expected to play. for 242 yards in a 41-25 loss. He 52-game season was discussed, but sources told The Athletic that soon, but if you had told that The Broncos have quarter- His favourite target Tyreek The Broncos will attempt to threw three touchdown passes both sides would prefer 56 games for obvious revenue reasons. 21-year-old he’d still be sitting back problems of their own. Hill has an NFL-best 13 receiv- snap a 10-game losing streak and was intercepted twice. Foles Training camps for all 31 teams would begin around January 2. here at 37, I’d be pretty happy Last week they were forced to ing touchdowns, including three against the Chiefs, who won the is suff ering from a hip problem.

NBA LA Lakers offi cially re-sign Davis and James

Reuters New York, United States Rockets’ Silas confi dent Harden will be ‘all-in’ Reuters he Los Angeles Lakers New York, United States will open training camp with both their super- stars under contract. ne day after Stephen TThe reigning NBA champions Silas saw his team announced on Thursday that Otrade star guard Russell they re-signed LeBron James and Westbrook, the rookie Houston Anthony Davis. Rockets head coach was con- The club did not reveal fi - fident his club wouldn’t have nancial details for either player, to do the same with James but multiple reports pegged Harden. Davis’ new fi ve-year contract to “I’m confident that he’ll be be worth up to $190 mn. James all-in,” Silas said during the signed a two-year, $85 mn con- Rockets’ media day Thursday. tract extension through the “That’s where I’m leaving it. 2022-23 season, agent Rich Paul As I’ve said, I’m giving him the of Klutch Sports told multiple space to do his thing, but I’m media outlets Wednesday. confident he’ll be here when we James, who turns 36 on De- get started.” cember 30, averaged 25.3 points, The Rockets are in the midst of an NBA-leading 10.2 assists and opening training camp after an 7.8 rebounds in 67 games last off season that saw Westbrook season. The 16-time All-Star and and Harden reportedly request four-time Most Valuable Player trades out of Houston. West- won his fourth NBA champion- brook had his wish granted ship, earning Finals MVP honors Wednesday, when he was against the Miami Heat. traded to the Washington Wiz- “LeBron James is a tran- ards for guard John Wall and a scendent basketball player, and future first-round draft pick. son, will now be tasked with Brooklyn Nets. Harden, howev- human being,” Lakers general Harden, 31 and entering his forging a strong relationship er, hasn’t spoken publicly since manager Rob Pelinka said in ninth season with the Rockets, between Harden and Wall, the reports, which were shot a statement. “LeBron put his has led the NBA in scoring each assuming Harden remains with down by his former Oklahoma trust in the Lakers in 2018, and of the past three seasons. Last the Rockets. City Thunder teammate and now this contract extension season he averaged 34.3 points “They fit very well,” Silas said current Nets star Kevin Durant paves the way for LeBron to per game, but his one-season about new-look backcourt. on Wednesday. further solidify his legacy as an the game’s most complete and He was 10th in the NBA in manding a trade in January 2019 partnership with Westbrook “Most of the stuff I wrote on “I don’t know where you’re mak- all-time Lakers great.” dominant two-way players,” scoring at 26.1 points per game in hopes of being moved before didn’t pay off with postseason my board stayed up there ing these stories up that me and Davis, acquired in July 2019 Pelinka said. “Now, Lakers fans and averaged 9.3 rebounds and the February trade deadline. success. The Rockets finished because they really fit the way I James talked about any of this from the New Orleans Pelicans, get to watch AD continue to grow 3.2 assists in 2019-20 with the He was fi ned $50,000 by the in fourth place in the Western want to play. To have John Wall at a workout,” Durant said. opted out of the fi nal year of his and lead our franchise for years to Lakers. With the Pelicans in NBA for his agent’s comments, Conference at 44-28, but lost in pushing the ball up the floor... Wall, 30, averaged 19.0 points contract — worth $28.7mn — to come.” 2018-19, he averaged 25.9 points, which came after Davis made it five games to the Los Angeles it accentuates to play the way I and 9.2 assists during his nine become a free agent in the days The 27-year-old Davis can 12.0 rebounds and 3.9 assists per clear he would turn down a max Lakers in the second round of want to play.” seasons with the Wizards. after the Lakers won the 2020 make $43.2mn in the fi nal year game. deal with the Pelicans in July the NBA playoff s. Harden reportedly has ex- “Now that the roster is set, NBA championship in Orlando. of the deal (2024-25) if he opts The No 1 pick in the 2012 NBA 2019 — the timeline permitted Silas, who replaced Mike pressed a desire not to just be there is more excitement than “In the Orlando bubble, An- to accept the player option in the Draft, Davis spent seven seasons under league rules — worth a D’Antoni as coach this off sea- traded, but to be traded to the anything else,” Silas said. thony Davis proved he is one of max contract. with the franchise before de- maximum value of $240mn. Gulf Times 6 Saturday, December 5, 2020 SPORT

ATHLETICS TENNIS WTA looks to start All 32 disciplines 2021 season on Jan 4 to feature in 2021 outside Australia Reuters Covid-19 protocols to be estab- Mumbai, India lished for Melbourne Park. Negotiations over when the players will arrive in Australia he WTA is planning to and what they will be allowed to start the 2021 season in do during their 14 days of quar- the fi rst week of Janu- antine have dragged out over Diamond League ary outside Australia the last few weeks but Simon Tbefore the players travel to Mel- was confi dent the tournament bourne for quarantine ahead of would go ahead. ‘We are delighted that athletes’ voices have been heard’ the Grand Slam, women’s tour “The Australian Open, we’re chief Steve Simon told Reuters. expecting it to happen,” he said. Reuters “We’re looking right now at “Obviously the Australian Bengaluru, India hopefully close to fi nalising in Open will come with a quaran- the next week or so the ability to tine period to enter Australia so stage some events in the week The Australian Open looks it does create challenges around he Diamond League said of January 4 to start the year,” likely to be pushed back from the month of January.” yesterday that it plans to he said by telephone from the its scheduled January 18 start. Following the quarantine pe- return to a full compe- United States. (Reuters) riod in Australia, the tour has tition format next year Simon did not provide details planned tune-up tournaments, Twith a complete programme of of where the tour might start. the risk of imported Covid-19 the fi rst Grand Slam and then 32 disciplines if the global health Normally both the WTA and cases. will return as closely as pos- situation allows it. the men’s ATP professional Both the WTA and the ATP sible to its traditional calendar, A new format was introduced tours kick off their seasons in are expected to confi rm their Simon added. for the 2020 season with the Australia, and in 2020 the WTA 2021 tour calendars once the The WTA was working with number of disciplines brought had events in Brisbane, Shen- details of the Australian Open its members and Tennis Aus- down to 24 in an eff ort to cre- zen and Auckland starting on are approved by the local au- tralia to fi rm up plans, Simon ate a faster-paced meeting that January 6. thorities. said. is more palatable to television But it is unlikely to take The Australian Open looks “I think we’re again getting viewers but the move was widely place in either China or New likely to be pushed back from its to a good place and we’ll be able criticised. Zealand which, like Australia, scheduled Jan. 18 start as Ten- to start the year and then tran- But the Diamond League said have strict health measures for nis Australia continues talks sition into Australia and then it would reinstate among other international arrivals to curb with local government over have a great year,” Simon added. events the triple jump, discus, 200m, 3,000m steeplechase and 5,000m in 2021. SPOTLIGHT “This has been a frustrating year for the athletes, meeting di- rectors, broadcasters, sponsors and of course fans,” Diamond “... The process has helped and a fi nal — for long jump, triple continue advocating for all sta- Nishikori keen to test himself League Association chairman remind all of us about why the jump, shot put, javelin and discus. dium events to be included in the and the president of the sport’s WDL (Diamond League) is so Athletics Association presi- future.” governing body Sebastian Coe special and I’m confi dent this dent Christian Taylor, the Ol- The Diamond League said a to- against the best again said in a statement. will shine through to the fans in ympic and World triple jump tal of $7mn in prize money would “We’ve used this time... to this coming season.” champion, welcomed the move be awarded over the course of the Reuters openly discuss issues, share ideas The Diamond League said it to include all 32 disciplines. 2021 season, which would com- Bengaluru, India to grow the Diamond League and hoped to better promote fi eld “We are delighted that ath- prise 13 meetings in 12 countries understand more about the pres- events by introducing a new for- letes’ voices have been heard,” and culminate in a fi nal over two sures each group faces. mat — with a qualifying round Taylor said. “Rest assured we will days in Zurich. apan’s Kei Nishikori hopes to be back on court playing against the best in the world next year af- Former 800m world champ Arzamasova gets four-year doping ban terJ his 2020 season was wrecked by Covid-19 and injury. Reuters Arzamasova, 32, was provision- Nishikori spent 10 months on Bengaluru, India ally suspended in August last the sidelines after undergoing year and after her B sample also elbow surgery and was slated returned a positive test she told to return at this year’s US Open ormer 800 metres world the AIU that her supplements but pulled out after testing pos- champion Marina Arza- had been contaminated. itive for the novel coronavirus. Fmasova of Belarus has “The Disciplinary Panel... He played six tour-level been banned for four years for imposes a period of ineligibility matches before his season was an Anti-Doping Rule Violation of four years upon the athlete cut short by another injury, “I really can’t wait for next ATP Tour title in the past four (ADRV), the Athletics Integrity for the ADRV, commencing on this time to his shoulder, in a year. seasons. Unit (AIU) said yesterday. 29 July 2019 and concluding at fi ve-set loss to Italian Stefano “I couldn’t face top-10 The 30-year-old is also keen Arzamasova, who won gold midnight on 28 July 2023,” the Travaglia at the French Open in ranked players this season. I to compete at the Tokyo Olym- at the 2015 worlds, was tested AIU said in its decision. September. want to compete at that level pics, which were pushed back out of competition in 2019 and The panel said Arzamasova “We had few tournaments again as soon as I can.” by a year due to the pandemic. a World Anti-Doping Agency had “failed to establish that her (due to the pandemic) and my Nishikori was the fi rst man “(My shoulder) has recov- (WADA) laboratory reported an ADRV was not intentional”, add- season came to an end when I from Asia to reach a Grand Slam ered to a decent level. It’ll be adverse finding after discover- ing that she will have the right was beginning to get my feel fi nal when he fi nished runner- defi nitely okay for next year,” ing the presence of an anabolic to appeal the decision at the back,” Kyodo news quoted the up at the 2014 US Open but has Nishikori said. “I’ll prepare (for agent on the Prohibited List. Court of Arbitration for Sport. former world number four as struggled for consistency at the the Olympics) assuming that saying yesterday. highest level, lifting just one they will take place.”

GOLF ROUND-UP FOCUS England’s Hull grabs England’s Sullivan maintains early lead at Texas slender lead heading into fi nal day LPGA event

Agencies overall following a round of 67. rat, who is playing in his fi rst Bengaluru, India Fellow Englishman Ross Fisher event since testing positive for was tied-third alongside Italian Covid-19 on November 11. Kira- Renato Paratore a shot further dech had three birdies but made ngland’s Andy Sulli- back. a double bogey on the par-four van stayed ahead of the “I felt a bit nervous (today) if third hole. chasing pack at the Golf I’m honest,” Wallace said. in Dubai Championship “Not at the start but a few tee DONALDSON IN SHARE OF yesterdayE with a steady third shots didn’t feel as comfortable LEAD WITH BEZUIDENHOUT round of 68 at the Jumeirah Golf and I didn’t strike it as well. But I Veteran Welshman Jamie Donald- Estates for a two-shot lead over told myself to let it go and struck son stormed through the course compatriot Matt Wallace head- it better coming in. at Sun City yesterday, sinking 10 ing into the fi nal day. “... I’m going to have loads of birdies in a round of 63 to share Sullivan began the round chances. I’m two behind a Ry- the lead with Christiaan Bezui- AFP and Jessica Korda and Thailand’s ahead by three strokes and land- der Cup (2016) player, someone denhout at the halfway mark of Los Angeles, United States Pornanong Phatlum are tied for ed three birdies on the front nine who’s playing really well and I’m the South African Open. second at two under. after the start of the day’s play going to have to go really low to- They were on a 10-under- Hull posted her fi rst birdie of was delayed by 45 minutes due morrow.” par total of 134 after two rounds ngland’s Charley Hull the round on her eighth hole (No to fog. with a two-shot lead over the shot a three-under 68 17). This is her fi rst 18 hole lead The English Open champion KNOX LEADS BY ONE STROKE fi eld. for her fi rst 18 hole lead since the Bahamas LPGA Classic shook off the disappointment IN MEXICO The 45-year-old Donaldson, in four years and a one in 2016. She said her swing felt of a bogey immediately after Scotland’s Russell Knox fi red who started the day one-under- strokeE cushion after the open- great. the turn to secure further gains a 30 on his front nine en route par, could even aff ord a dropped ing round of the Volunteers of “I felt like I was hitting it really on the 16th and 17th holes to go to a six-under 65 to seize a fi rst shot in his blistering round as America Classic tournament on well up until [the eighth hole]. 21-under for the tournament. round lead at the USPGA Tour’s he came within one shot of Lee Thursday. Actually, I didn’t hit a green, but “I started off really nicely... Mayakoba Golf Classic on Russell Knox of Scotland plays his shot from the eight tee during the Westwood’s course record at the In diffi cult chilly conditions, I was always just like a club short played really solid. From 10 Thursday in Mexico. first round of the Mayakoba Golf Classic in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, Gary Player Country Club. Hull rolled in four birdies in a or something or half a club short through to 14 I didn’t swing it Knox, who started on the 10th on Thursday. (AFP) Bezuidenhout missed a short six hole stretch beginning at No. and I was still putting just off that great, didn’t give myself tee, birdied fi ve of his fi nal six putt on the 18th for a birdie that 2 at the Old American Golf Club the green. Then just made some that many chances but found holes on his opening nine then fairway, and with lift, clean and Brooks Koepka is six strokes would have given him a one- course in Dallas, Texas. birdies coming in,” said Hull. good swings coming in,” Sulli- added two more birdies on his place, I could be fairly aggres- back of Knox after shooting a 71. shot lead as he seeks a second “I was so cold out there,” said Five players are tied for fi fth van, who is chasing a fi fth title back nine to take a one stroke sive. Par was good today.” Pre-tournament favourite successive European Tour title Hull, who kept warm by wear- at one under, including major on the European Tour, said. lead over three others. His only Chile’s Joaquin Niemann, and the only top 10 ranked player after winning last week’s Alfred ing a toque and a red pullover. champions Anna Nordqvist of “There’s a lot of golf to be blemish was a bogey on the par- Emiliano Grillo of Argentina in the fi eld, Justin Thomas, shot Dunhill Championship. “I played pretty solid. The golf Sweden and Brittany Lang. played and a lot of birdies going four second hole. and American Tom Hoge were 72. Thomas, who has two wins The 26-year-old South Afri- course is playing so much diff er- Defending champion Chey- to be made tomorrow. I’ve just “Took me a few holes to kind a stroke back at 66 in the fi nal in 2020, is coming off a fourth can, however, still made no er- ent than it did last year. It’s play- enne Knight is tied for 10th after got to go out there and play as of settle into my round, but event of the PGA Tour’s 2020 place fi nish at the Masters and rors in his round of 67. ing a lot longer, which I prefer. a fi rst-round 71. good as I can.” when I did, I had six or seven season at the Playa del Carmen has fi ve straight top-15 fi nishes. Home players Dean Burm- “I struggled swinging the last First round play was suspend- Wallace rolled in six birdies to very good holes,” Knox said. “I course. Another stroke behind is ester and Dylan Frittelli were two holes, I just got so cold.” ed for darkness and will resume stay in contention at 19-under hit the ball well, drove it in the Four-time major champion Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarn- eight-under-par in joint third. Americans Jennifer Kupcho Friday morning. Gulf Times Saturday, December 5, 2020 7 SPORT

NBA Postponed Tokyo Olympics to cost extra $2.4bn

AFP that we have done well to contain the Winter Olympics skiing test events wiped out by Covid-19 transport to retaining the huge organis- Games was high before the pandemic. Tokyo costs, I think it depends on how you ing committee staff . But enthusiasm has since waned, look at it,” Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Paris: All skiing test events this season has resulted in very strong travel restric- And with organisers committed to with a poll in July revealing that just one Muto told reporters. for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics tions that made it virtually impossible hosting the Games even if the pandem- in four people wanted to see the event “We have done all we can to earn the have been cancelled because of coro- to stage international competitions,” ic remains a threat, extensive safety held in 2021, and most backing either he coronavirus-delayed Tokyo public’s understanding,” he added. navirus restrictions, the international said FIS president Gian Franco Kasper measures will be needed. further delay or cancellation. Olympics will cost at least an Tokyo 2020 said an additional $1.5bn ski federation (FIS) said yesterday The on the organisation’s web site. FIS says Tokyo 2020 this week released a Tokyo 2020 President Yoshiro Mori extra $2.4bn, organisers said would be needed for operational costs events include the freestyle, snowboard it is looking for a new venue for all the 54-page plan they said would make it said the spending plan was carefully Tyesterday, with the unprec- related to the delay, with another and freeski world championships cancelled events. It said it still hoped to possible to hold the Games, including considered and he hoped people would edented postponement and a raft of $900mn in spending on coronavirus scheduled for February 18-28 at the Ol- stage as many Olympic test events as restrictions on athletes touching and accept it. pandemic health measures ballooning countermeasures. ympic site at Yanqinq. Two ski-jumping possible. “Testing of the venues is a re- fans cheering, and an infection control “If you have a drink, you could say an already outsized budget. The dollar fi gures are calculated at events, the Nordic combined world cup, quirement to ensure the venues in 2022 centre in the Olympic Village. your glass is half-full, or half empty. It The extra costs come as offi cials work an exchange rate of 107 yen, and the a women’s Alpine world cup downhill will be of the highest possible standard Organisers have tried to scale back depends on how you look at it,” he told to build enthusiasm for the fi rst Games total is around $2.56bn at today’s rate. and super-G and the cross country and in the safest environment,” said FIS. elements of the Games, off ering fewer reporters. postponed in peacetime, insisting the The costs look set to rise further, with world cup were also cancelled. All were It said it hoped to re-schedule test free tickets, scrapping athlete welcome “There’s a rationale behind this plan. massive event can go ahead next year Tokyo 2020 saying it would also release scheduled between late January and events “on diff erent levels” at later dates, ceremonies and making savings on I hope the Japanese people will under- even if the pandemic is not under con- an additional $250mn in “contingency” mid-March. or stage national championships with mascots, banners and meals, but so far stand it.” trol. funds. “The current second wave of Covid-19 “only Chinese athletes.” they have cut just $280mn in spending. Tokyo 2020’s fi nal price tag has been But more spending, on top of the The new spending swells a budget And on Thursday, they said 18% of hotly disputed, with an audit report last previous budget of about $13bn, could that was set last year at around $13bn, Olympic tickets sold in Japan will be re- year estimating the national govern- further harden public opinion in Japan, and will add to disquiet about the cost The extra costs will be split between its sponsor royalty fee for the fi rst time, funded, with domestic fans demanding ment spent nearly 10 times its original where polls this year showed a major- of the Games after an audit report last Tokyo, the organising committee and organisers said. their money back on about 810,000 of budget between 2013-2018. ity of people think the Games should be year argued the national government the national government. The Inter- The unprecedented decision to delay the 4.45mn tickets sold in the country. Organisers countered that the esti- postponed again or cancelled together. was spending signifi cantly more than national Olympic Committee will not the Games has thrown up a plethora of Organisers hope to now resell those mate included items not directly re- “Whether it’s seen as too much or originally planned. be chipping in, but has agreed to waive extra costs, from rebooking venues and tickets, and demand for seats at the lated to the Games.

RUGBY FOCUS Wallabies skipper urges ‘complete Jones: England’s performance’ against Argentina

AFP “We want to keep these guys Sydney — Sanchez, a great player — to experience will minimal points and we need to be disciplined to do that.” ustralia skipper Sanchez has been Argentina’s Michael Hooper yes- standout player during the roll- terday called for “a ercoaster tour, which has in- Acomplete perform- cluded coronavirus quarantine, ance” in the fi nal Test of the year the Pumas’ fi rst win over the All against a weakened Argentina, Blacks and the racism row. count for nothing who are missing their captain af- The fl y-half was pivotal dur- ter a row over racist tweets. ing their fi rst-ever victory over Australia blew a golden oppor- the All Blacks and the draw with The Six Nations champions are fielding their most experienced team of all-time, tunity to not only beat the Pumas Australia, scoring all 40 of their a fortnight ago but put them- points so far. with 813 caps in the starting lineup for tomorrow’s match against France selves in pole position to win the “We have got to play in smart Tri-Nations. areas of the fi eld. Sanchez has AFP They were leading 15-6 with an amazing boot on him and he London 19 minutes left, but poor disci- did damage us in that last game,” pline handed Argentina a lifeline said Hooper. “We handed them which fl y-half Nicolas Sanchez three-pointers way too easily in ead coach Eddie Jones grabbed with both hands, nail- the back end. has warned England’s ing three consecutive penalties “We need to utilise smart at- colossal superior- to draw the game. tacking kicks, be smart around ity in experience will It deprived the Wallabies of a our breakdown decision-mak- Hcount for little when they face vital win and they now need to ing... and we want to grow our a novice France outfit in to- crush Argentina in Sydney on set piece as well, so that’s going morrow’s Autumn Nations Cup Saturday by a massive 101 points to be a fair battle up front.” final at Twickenham. to replace New Zealand at the top The racist tweet scandal has The Six Nations champions of the table and win the trophy. impacted Argentina’s prepara- are fielding their most expe- Argentina have appeared in tions with coach Mario Ledesma rienced team of all-time, with disarray this week, with captain admitting his players had been 813 caps in the starting lineup, Pablo Matera, second row Guido “really, really aff ected”. whereas les Bleus’ run-on side Petti and replacement hooker But Hooper said he expected have just 68 between them — Santiago Socino fi rst suspended Argentina to bring their usual and 30 of those belong to full- over “discriminatory and xeno- passion. back Brice Dulin. phobic” tweets and then rein- “Some changes there, in terms Fabien Galthie’s visitors are stated. However, all three will of their players. But they have a the only team to beat Jones’ miss today’s game. really good squad,” he said. men this year, winning 24-17 in “We want to get both sides “They’re clearly training well Paris in February — their first of our game to click tomorrow. against each other during the match since last November’s We’ve been good in patches in week. And they’ll certainly be up Rugby World Cup final loss. diff erent games throughout the for it, they’re a passionate bunch Galthie will field a much al- year,” said Hooper, whose side of guys.” tered side following an agree- has been boosted by the return With hot, muggy conditions ment between the country’s from injury of fl y-half James and a possible thunderstorm federation and the Top 14 clubs O’Connor. forecast for the game Hooper, limiting players to three team “We’re looking for a complete added that “the team that navi- sheet appearances in the re- performance tomorrow, attack, gates that, will do well on the vised end-of-year Test sched- England’s coach Eddie Jones (C) takes a training session at Twickenham in southwest London yesterday. counter-attack, defensively. park”. ule. “It’s no advantage,” Jones World Cup and Jones said: “We absolute best on Sunday. We Covid-10 restrictions. Joseph suffered a calf injury in told reporters after announc- know the French are capable of probably learnt a little bit from “It’s such an exciting final Llanelli. ing his team yesterday great things. They’ve got great the World Cup (final) where we for rugby, to have fans back, England (15-1) “No one gets a head start, depth in their Top 14. felt in retrospect we probably to have probably the two best Elliot Daly; Anthony Watson, it’s all square when we run out “At the moment they’re on under-prepared, so we feel like sides in Europe playing in the Henry Slade, Owen Farrell there on Sunday.” a project to win the World Cup we’ve got the right balance in final of an inaugural competi- (capt), Jonny May; George The veteran Australian in 2023 and this is part of their terms of physical and recovery tion which has produced some Ford, Ben Youngs; Billy Vunipo- coach, recalling how an unfan- project. You can never under- work this week.” good, tough rugby,” said Jones. la, Sam Underhill, Tom Curry; cied France surprised the All estimate a French team.” Tomorrow’s match will see “It’s a great opportunity to Joe Launchbury, Maro Itoje; Blacks during a 2009 tour of Meanwhile, Jones said he spectators return to Twicken- showcase the game.” Kyle Sinckler, Jamie George, New Zealand, added: “The first would look to learn lessons ham for the first time since the Jones has made just one Mako Vunipola game of the tour, they didn’t from England’s experience in coronavirus pandemic, with change to the England side that Replacements: Luke Cowan- have a lot of their senior play- the build-up to the climax of 2,000 tickets on sale for the fi- won 24-13 away to Wales last Dickie, Ellis Genge, Will Stuart, ers available and they won that the World Cup. nal of a tournament created af- week, with Anthony Watson Jonny Hill, Ben Earl, Dan Rob- Test.” “We’ve changed the training ter southern hemisphere sides returning on the right wing af- son, Max Malins, Joe Marchant France will host the next week to make sure we are at our were unable to travel to due ter Bath team-mate Jonathan Coach: Eddie Jones (AUS)

BOTTOMLINE Winger Raka returns in six changes for France

AFP French squad members are “Our Wednesday train- trying to be built after just two ture for his country for the fi rst Paris allowed to feature on just three ing sessions are as quick if not training sessions and the game time since June 2016. team sheets across the six quicker and more intense than over Italy,” he added. matches during the autumn matches so that prepared him. Yoram Moefana, a 20-year- France team to face England inger Alivereti campaign. Raka replaces Teddy We thought he was ready despite old Bordeaux-Begles back, will (15-1) Raka is among six Thomas, who started last week- the few matches he has played,” make his fi rst international start Brice Dulin, Alivereti Raka, changes named by end’s win over Italy, on the right he added. taking Jean-Pascal Barraque’s Jonathan Danty, Yoram Whead coach Fabien fl ank for Sunday’s match at Galthie downplayed the con- place at outside centre. Moefana, Gabin Villiere; Mat- Galthie yesterday for tomor- Twickenham. trast in experience. His squad Selevasio Tolofua of Toulouse thieu Jalibert, Baptiste Couil- row’s Autumn Nations Cup fi nal Raka has featured just once for has just 118 caps while England starts at No 8, winning his fi rst loud (capt); Selevasio Tolofua, with England. his club this season due to an in- include 13 players who started cap in a changed back row. Anthony Jelonch, Cameron Fijian-born Raka, 25, who jury and a four-week ban for as last November’s World Cup fi nal Baptiste Couilloud, a 23-year- Woki, Baptiste Pesenti, Killian made his previous Test appear- dangerous tackle. He joined up loss. old Lyon player, takes over the Geraci, Dorian Aldegheri, Pierre ance at last year’s Rugby World with the national squad while “We’ve had the challenge, it’s captaincy from fellow scrum- Bourgarit, Hassane Kolingar Cup comes in as Galthie is forced still suspended. our job, to transform a squad half Baptiste Serin. Replacements: Peato Mauvaka, to again shuffl e his team because “He came quite a bit with us into a team, that’s the big dif- On the bench, Bayonne lock Rodrigue Neti, Uini Atonio, Guil- of an agreement on appearances during the Six Nations, he came ference. They’ve had fi ve or six Guillaume Ducat is poised to laume Ducat, Sekou Macalou, Argentina’s Nicolas Sanchez (L) gives a hug to a teammate Domingo between the French federation back when he was suspended,” years together,” Galthie said. make his senior bow and half- Sebastien Bezy, Louis Carbonel, Miotti during a captain’s run training session at Bankwest Stadium in and the Top 14 league. Galthie said. “We’re a young squad that is back Sebastien Bezy could fea- Jean Pascal Barraque Sydney yesterday. Saturday, December 5, 2020 GULF TIMES SPORT

SHOWJUMPING Al-Amri leads Canavaro De Muze to easy victory in Medium Tour The Small Tour was won by Khalifa Abdulla al-Khaldi astride his trusted 17-year-old mare Dusty

By Sports Reporter Doha RESULTS Medium Tour | Accumulator with aber Rashid al-Amri emerged Joker, Art. 269.5 | 120/130 cm. victorious in the Medium Tour Prize Money: QR30.000 during the fi fth round of the 1. Jaber Rashid al-Amri. Horse: Ca- Longines Qatar Equestrian Tour navaro De Muze (E.T.) Time: 45.80 HathabJ supported by The Social & seconds, Prize Money: QR7,500 Sport Contribution Fund. At the Qatar Equestrian Federation’s 2. Ghanim Nasser al-Qadi. Jazz indoor arena yesterday, al-Amri was De Semilly K Z (Dupli). 48.84. a comprehensive winner in the 130cm QR6,000 class as he led 12-year-old grey stal- 3. Faleh Suwead al-Ajami. Ambre lion Canavaro De Muze (E.T.) to fastest de Beaufour. 49.66. QR4,500 time. The pair fi nished their round in 45.80 seconds as al-Amri walked away with QR7,500 in prize money. Medium Tour Team results Ghanim Nasser al-Qadi was a distant 1. ExxonMobil: Cyrine Cherif (Bren- second with eight-year-old mare Jazz nus Villelongue); Khalid Mohamed De Semilly K Z (Dupli), with the pair al-Emadi (Bleu Boy). Total time: coming home in 48.84 secs. Experi- 107.33 seconds. Prize money: enced rider Faleh Suwead al-Ajami had QR15,000 to be content with third place after he clocked 49.66 secs with ten-year-old 2. QAF: Mohamed Abdulla Juma mare Ambre de Beaufour. (Cantaro 32); Hamad Ali al-Attiyah The Medium Tour Team winners (Calgary Vd Haterbeek Z); Salman were ExxonMobil, after Cyrine Cherif Mohamed al-Emadi (Zorro Z). Total and Khalid Mohamed al-Emadi com- time: 125.04 seconds. Prize money: bined for a total time of 107.33 seconds. QR9,000 Jaber Rashid al-Amri astride 12-year-old grey stallion Canavaro De Muze (ET) in action during the fifth round of the Longines Qatar Equestrian Tour Hathab supported Team QAF was second, which had 3. Limited Edition Cars: Mohamed by The Social & Sport Contribution Fund at Qatar Equestrian Federation’s indoor arena yesterday. Mohamed Abdulla Juma, Hamad Ali al- Khalifa Albaker (Verona); Moham- Attiyah and Salman Mohamed al-Ema- ed Saeed Haidan (Miss Chili). Total di in its roster. The Limited Edition Cars time: 98.92 seconds. Prize money: team, consisting of Mohamed Khalifa QR6000. Albaker and Mohamed Saeed Haidan, fi nished third. Earlier, the Small Tour was won by Small Tour | Table A, One round Khalifa Abdulla al-Khaldi astride his against the clock with jump off , trusted 17-year-old mare Dusty. The Art. 238.2.2 | 100/110 cm. Prize winning pair aced the jump off in a Money: QR20,000 time of 25.06 seconds. Hamad Nasser al-Qadi fi nished second with Gibria-B, 1. Khalifa Abdulla al-Khaldi. Horse: while Saeed Nasser al-Qadi and Best Of Dusty. Time: 65.24 and 25.06 sec- Des Forets came home third. onds, Prize money: QR5,000 Meanwhile, Abdullah Mohamed 2. Hamad Nasser al-Qadi. Gibria-B, al-Mari, director of the Future Riders 59.79 and 25.46 secs, QR4,000 School and the national teams, said the 3. Saeed Nasser al-Qadi. Best Of Hathab was one of the best local tour- naments in the region. Des Forets. 66.98 and 26.06 secs, Al-Mari said: “Hathab’s success QR3,000 is due to the organising committee’s keenness to conduct the championship group of The Social & Sport Contribu- despite the prevailing pandemic situ- tion Fund. The number of riders in all ation. In addition, the popular event categories has increased, especially the Small Tour winner Khalifa Abdulla al-Khaldi (left) receives his award from Omar is supported and funded by national Future Riders, which has seen number al-Mannai, Vice-Chairman of the Organising Committee of Longines Qatar companies and institutions under the of talented riders coming through.” Equestrian Tour Hathab supported by The Social & Sport Contribution Fund. The top three in the Medium Tour pose with their trophies.

F1 SPOTLIGHT Grosjean’s 28-second struggle Hamilton suff ering from ‘mild symptoms’, says Mercedes chief to stay alive, in his own words AFP standing time-topping lap in ahead of the Abu Dhabi event Manama opening practice. starting on Friday. If he fails to Reuters “Covid-19 is something you make it, Russell looks to be in a Manama mustn’t take lightly and he is in perfect position to take advan- ormula One world cham- safe hands. That is the most im- tage after outpacing Mercedes pion Lewis Hamilton, portant, but it is these early days number two driver Valtteri Bot- ormula One driver Romain Grosjean who was diagnosed with that are not so nice.” tas by three-tenths of a second relived Sunday’s horrifi c Bahrain coronavirus this week, is Speaking to Sky Sports F1, early yesterday. “He (Russell) de- Grand Prix crash, where his Haas car strugglingF with the illness and is Wolff said Hamilton was still livered a really solid job in what penetrated a metal barrier and split in doubt for next week’s season- suff ering from “mild symptoms” we expect from him on a single inF two, in a video news conference yester- ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and a large dose of frustration at lap. It’s diffi cult to establish a day. This, in his own words, is how he es- Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff missing a race weekend for the benchmark because Valtteri caped the fi reball. “For me it wasn’t quite 28 said yesterday. The seven-time fi rst time in his F1 career since his broke his car early on and it was seconds, it felt more like a minute 30. When champion won the Bahrain Grand debut in Australia in 2007. “As diffi cult for him to stop it prop- the car came to a stop I opened my eyes. I Prix last weekend and was ruled you can imagine, a race driver out erly. He even stopped running, undid my seatbelt straight away. The thing out of tomorrow’s Sakhir Grand of his car... combine it with Cov- so we didn’t see Valtteri in the I didn’t remember on the next day was what Prix after waking up on Mon- id, he would rather sit in there right car, but this is not to dimin- did I do with the steering wheel? Because I day with mild symptoms. The (nodding towards the Mercedes ish George’s performance for the don’t have the memory of taking the steer- 35-year-old is now in the process garage).” fi rst time in the car. It was good.” ing wheel off and they said no, the steering of isolating for 10 days according When Hamilton completes his Hamilton is the third driver wheel was gone between your legs. The col- to the established protocols. 10 days’ isolation, he will need to this year to miss a race due to umn and everything broke and went down. “He is not great,” said Wolff undergo another Covid-19 test Covid-19, following Racing “I feel like something is touching my head after Hamilton’s replacement next Wednesday and Thursday Point duo Sergio Perez and Lance so I sit back down in the car and my fi rst George Russell posted an out- to ensure he is given the all-clear Stroll. thought was ‘I’m going to wait, I’m upside down against the wall so I’m going to wait until someone comes and helps me’. I wasn’t FOCUS in stress and obviously not aware at the time there is fi re. Then I look right and left and watching on the left I see fi re. So I think ‘I don’t really have the time to wait here’. So Haas driver Romain Grosjean at the Sakhir Grand Prix on Thursday. (Reuters) Super-sub Russell sets practice pace next thing is I tried to go up a bit more on Reuters the right, it doesn’t work. Go again on the “I’ve got both hands on the fi re at that in Abu Dhabi would depend on how fast his Manama left, it doesn’t work, sit back down and then time. My gloves are red normally so I see burns heal. I thought about Niki Lauda (who suff ered especially the left one changing colour and “The doctors... say that it’s diffi cult to severe burns in a 1976 crash), his accident. starting melting and going full black. I feel know yet,” Grosjean, his hands still band- eorge Russell looked “I thought it couldn’t end like this. It the pain that my hands are in the fi re but aged, said. “The right hand 100 percent will perfectly at home in couldn’t be my last race, couldn’t fi nish like also the relief that I am out of the car. Then I be ready. The strength and the mobility in Lewis Hamilton’s Mer- this. No way. So I try again and I’m stuck. So jump out and go on the barrier and I feel Ian the left hand gets better day after day. The cedes during yester- I go back and then there’s the less pleasant (Roberts, FIA doctor) pulling at my overalls strength is here, the mobility is still a lot of Gday’s opening practice session moment where my body starts to relax. I’m so I know I am not on my own any more and swelling from the infl ammation. This needs for the Sakhir Grand Prix by go- Mercedes’ George Russell drives during a practice session. (AFP) in peace with myself and I am going to die. I there is someone with me.” to start reducing,” said Grosjean, adding ing fastest on his debut as the ask my question: ‘is it going to burn my shoe After the extraction and immediate that doctors had not ruled out a skin graft seven-times Formula One cham- substitute teammate’s bench- Sebastian Vettel and teammate or my foot or my hand, is it going to be pain- checks in the medical car, Grosjean walked on his more severely burned left hand. pion’s stand-in. mark. However, the Finn was Daniel Ricciardo. Charles Leclerc ful, where is it going to start?’. I guess it was to an ambulance. He insisted on that: “It Grosjean is out of a drive next season with The 22-year-old, put in Ham- nursing damage on his car. “Valt- in the other Ferrari rounded out milliseconds at the time. was key that there was some footage of the Abu Dhabi race, which takes place on ilton’s seat after his fellow Briton teri broke his car pretty early on the top 10. “And then I think about my kids. I say me walking towards the ambulance. Even Dec. 13, likely to be his Formula One swan tested positive for Covid-19, set in the session,” Mercedes team Russell, whose is backed by ‘No, they cannot lose their dad today.’ So though I’d walked out of the fi re, I needed to song. The Frenchman said he would like to a time of 54.546 seconds as For- principal Toto Wolff said. “He Mercedes but had been placed I don’t know why but I decide to turn my send another strong message that I was OK.” fi nish his career by taking the chequered fl ag mula One for the fi rst time lapped even stopped running. So we at engine customer Williams to helmet on the left hand side and to go up at the Yas Marina track but not at any cost. around the shorter outer layout didn’t see Valtteri in the right learn the ropes for the last two and try and twist my shoulder. That sort of MISSING ABU DHABI COMEBACK NOT “It’s been my life and I would like to cross of the Bahrain International Cir- car, but this is not to diminish seasons, was not the only driver works but then I realise my foot is stuck in END OF THE WORLD FOR GROSJEAN the fi nish line properly when I fi nish my ca- cuit that hosted last Sunday’s George’s performance for a fi rst getting used to new surround- the car. So I sit back down, pull as hard as I Grosjean said it would not be the end of the reer in Formula One. If it doesn’t happen, race. Russell headed Max Ver- time in the car, it’s good.” ings. Brazilian Pietro Fittipaldi is can on my left leg, the shoe stayed where my world if he could not make his Formula One well, I’m alive, I will have plenty of other stappen and Alexander Albon Behind the top four, Russian making his Formula One debut at foot was but my foot comes out of the shoe. comeback at the season-ending Abu Dhabi opportunities in the future,” said Grosjean, who completed the top three in Daniil Kvyat was fi fth ahead of Haas as stand-in for the injured And then I do it again and my shoulders are Grand Prix. Sitting out this weekend’s pe- jokingly adding that he would call every their Red Bulls. Mercedes’ Valt- AlphaTauri teammate Pierre Romain Grosjean. Briton Jack going through (the halo) and I know I’m go- nultimate race around the same Sakhir team on the grid to see if he could organise a teri Bottas only managed fourth Gasly. Esteban Ocon was seventh Aitken, also a rookie, is fi lling ing to jump out. track’s outer circuit, Grosjean said a return private farewell test session in January. and was 0.322 seconds behind his for Renault ahead of Ferrari’s Russell’s seat at Williams.