Sport

THURSDAY 3 DECEMBER 2020 Pandya shines as India win last ODI to aavoid clean sweep against Australia I have been working hard to play for my country, happy that I've got the opportunity. You need to be on your toes when it comes to playing against Australia.

Hardik Pandya Sport | 08 Indian all-rounder VOLLEYBALL: SENIOR MEN'S LEAGUE Police bt Qatar SC 3-0 (25-23, 25-20, 25-13); Al Arabi bt Al Khor 3-0 (25-22, 26-24, 25-16). Stunning new stadium to host Amir Cup final on Dec 18

The 40,000-capacity stadium is adjacent to the Mall of Qatar and within walking distance of Al Riffa Station – on Doha Metro’s Green Line. Another milestone: Qatar to inaugurate fourth World Cup venue on National Day

THE PENINSULA — DOHA footprint, including the use of recycled building materials and The Supreme Committee for The inauguration of this retaining trees from the sur- Delivery & Legacy (SC) has stadium is another rounding environment. Many announced its latest milestone major milestone on the of the recycled materials used achievement on the road to the in the new stadium complex FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. road to 2022. This came from the deconstructed The inauguration of the stadium stunning venue and the Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium that located in Al Rayyan will take surrounding precinct once occupied the site. As a place on 18 December – Qatar will leave a fantastic result, the stadium was awarded National Day – exactly two legacy for Al Rayyan the following Global Sustaina- years before the country hosts bility Assessment System (GSAS) the FIFA World Cup final. Sports Club and ratings: GSAS Design & Build The stadium – which will everyone who lives in Certification (four-star rating), become the new home of Al this proud city. GSAS Construction Man- Rayyan Sports Club – is the Hassan Al Thawadi, agement Certification (Class A*) fourth Qatar 2022 tournament Secretary General, SC and a GSAS Seasonal Energy venue to open following Khalifa Efficiency Ratio (SEER) Com- International, Al Janoub and pliance Certificate. Education City. “The building of this Earlier this year, it was stadium, which incorporated announced the venue would international trade. A fifth shape “This event also marks the Delivery Office, described the delivery of the stadium in Al the careful deconstruction of host seven matches up to the – a shield – brings together all two-year countdown to the stadium’s completion as a Rayyan – on time and within Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium and the round of 16 stage during the the others, representing the biggest match in Qatar’s history: massive achievement on the budget – is testament to the reuse of materials from that World Cup. strength and unity that is par- the FIFA World Cup final,” road to the first FIFA World Cup outstanding collaboration of the structure in the new project, is The 40,000-capacity ticularly relevant to the city of added Al Thawadi. “We are in the Middle East and Arab SC team, our numerous con- an outstanding achievement for stadium is adjacent to the Mall Al Rayyan. proud that our World Cup prep- world. tractors and valued stake- the SC,” said Engineer Yasir Al of Qatar and within walking Hassan Al Thawadi, Sec- arations remain on track, with “Five stadiums have now holders. We are incredibly Jamal, Vice Chairman of the SC’s distance of Al Riffa Station – on retary General of the SC, said: 90% of infrastructure projects been completed, including excited to launch this venue on Technical Delivery Office. Doha Metro’s Green Line. The “The inauguration of this completed. We look forward to Khalifa, Al Janoub, Education Qatar National Day, exactly two “From the beginning, sus- stadium’s most striking feature stadium is another major mile- unveiling more stadiums next City, Al Bayt and Al Rayyan. The years to the day before eve- tainability was at the forefront is a glowing façade, comprised stone on the road to 2022. This year as we ensure that all tour- remaining three will be ryone focuses on our country of this project, amid the unique of patterns that characterise dif- stunning venue and the sur- nament venues are delivered delivered in the near future in for the World Cup final.” challenges we faced during the ferent aspects of Qatar: the rounding precinct will leave a well in advance of the big order to give us plenty of time Considerable sustainability development. I’m very proud of importance of family, the fantastic legacy for Al Rayyan kick-off.” to test our operational plans,” and efficiency measures have the SC team and our valued beauty of the desert, native flora Sports Club and everyone who Engineer Hilal Al Kuwari, said Al Kuwari. been embedded in the design stakeholders for delivering this and fauna, and local and lives in this proud city.” Chairman of the SC’s Technical He added: “The successful to reduce the stadium’s carbon outstanding venue.” Neymar strikes twice as PSG down United; Ronaldo scores 750th goal in Juve's win

REUTERS — MANCHESTER created several good chances Alvaro Morata completed the Dembele gave them a three- YESTERDAY'S RESULTS after the break with Edinson scoring in the 66th minute. goal lead before the break. GROUP STAGE Brazilian Neymar scored twice Cavani hitting the bar but PSG Frappart, 36, had an une- Ronald Koeman's side con- and his compatriot Fred was sent grabbed the win when Mar- ventful match as she booked tinued to dominate in the Krasnodar 1 - 0 Rennes off as Paris St Germain beat quinhos poked home in the 69th three players and ignored one second half and Dembele Basaksehir 3 - 4 Leipzig 10-man Manchester United 3-1 minute after a drive into the box penalty shout from the Ukrainian missed three chances to Sevilla 0 - 4 Chelsea Club Brugge 3 - 0 Zenit at Old Trafford yesterday to had been diverted to him by side in the first half. add to their lead while B Dortmund 1 - 1 Lazio throw Champions League Group Abdou Diallo. Juventus, second in Group G Miralem Pjanic also came Ferencváros 0 - 3 Barcelona H wide open. United's difficulties intensified behind Barcelona with 12 points, close. Juventus 3 - 0 Dynamo Kiev United, PSG and RB Leipzig when, a minute later, midfielder had already qualified for the round Barca, who have already qual- Man United 1 - 3 PSG all on nine points heading into Fred was sent off for a second of 16 while Kyiv, who have one ified for the knockout stages, lead next week's final round of games yellow card and Neymar added the point, had already been knocked Group G with a maximum 15 in which the English side go to third in stoppage time after a out. points. They host second-placed the German club and the French counter-attack. Meanwhile in Budapest, Bar- Juventus in their final game next champions host Istanbul Meanwhile, Juventus forward celona outclassed Ferencvaros week and will finish top if they Basaksehir. Cristiano Ronaldo scored the and eased their way to a 3-0 avoid defeat. Neymar fired PSG into a 750th goal of his remarkable away win yesterday for a fifth Elsewhere, striker Olivier sixth-minute lead after a Kylian career in a 3-0 win over Dynamo consecutive Champions League Giroud scored four as a dominant Mbappe shot was deflected and Kyiv yesterday as Stephanie win which took them to the brink Chelsea won 4-0 at Sevilla to fell kindly to the former Bar- Frappart became the first female of clinching top spot in their secure top spot in Group E with Paris celona forward who drilled the referee to take charge of a Cham- group. a match to spare. Saint-Germain's ball into the bottom corner. pions League match. Lionel Messi was rested and The result left Chelsea with Brazilian forward United drew level in the 32nd Federico Chiesa headed missed a second European trip 13 points from five games, three Neymar (right) minute through a Marcus Juventus in front with his first- in a row but Barca barely ahead of second-placed Sevilla celebrates with Rashford shot which deflected off ever Champions League goal in noticed their captain's absence with a better head-to-head team-mate Moise the outstretched leg of Danilo to the 21st minute and Ronaldo as goals from Antoine record against the Spanish side Kean after scoring beat PSG keeper Keylor Navas. struck just before the hour to Griezmann, Martin Braithwaite after their 0-0 draw at Stamford his team's first goal. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side reach another career milestone. and a penalty from Ousmane Bridge in the reverse fixture. THURSDAY 3 DECEMBER 2020 SPORT 11

Big data in combatting organised crime, role of sponsors hot topics in debates Experts discuss ways to help secure sport at ICSS Conference THE PENINSULA – DOHA organised crime,” Russo said. Phil Walker, Lead, Major Schumacher’s Taking a multifaceted approach Events Program, OSAC, Diplo- towards analysing the issues in matic Security Service, U.S. son Mick gets sport security, leading interna- Department of State said: “The tional specialists gathered private sector is a force of mul- ‘dream’ first F1 during Securing Sport 2020 tiplier in major events. They are Expert Debates to examine and a benefit at the operational spot with Haas discuss some of the key industry level.” aspects. Filip Maes, Senior Director, AFP – SAKHIR Some of the key aspects dis- Global Security & Safety, Visa, cussed during the yesterday's Inc said: “The business sector Mick Schumacher, the son of virtual event of the flagship can only be successful if the seven-time world champion conference of the International event is successful. Information Michael Schumacher, says his Centre for Sport Security (ICSS), sharing is the key to success” childhood dream has come were the use of big data in com- The International Centre for true following yesterday’ batting the infiltration of tran- Sport Security is an interna- announcement he will drive snational organised crime in tional non-profit organisation in Formula One for the first sport, the role of sponsors in established in 2010 with the aim time with Haas next season. safeguarding sport and devel- of safeguarding sport in terms “It’s incredible and it def- oping an international of safety, security and integrity initely hasn’t sunk in yet,” the framework on private security and to protect the opportunities 21-year-old said in a press at major sporting events. sport can generate in the area conference. The objectives of the panels of socio-economic “I’m happy it’s been Juliette Kayyem, Thomas Drohan, Francesco Marelli, Alexander Loidolt, Dale Sheehan, Roberto Di Pietro, were to present an open debate development. decided -- I have been chasing Giovanni Russo, Dimitris Dardanis during the Securing Sport 2020 Expert Debates yesterday. on the current challenges, such Working in close cooper- this dream since I was three as on the use and analysis of Big ation with multiple sectors, the years old.” Schumacher junior Data in combatting crimes in Security at Harvard’s Kennedy and Anti-terrorism National “This indicates the need for ICSS assists event organisers, will partner Russian driver sport, the role of sports sponsors School of Government and Directorate said: “Sport is not an overall and not fragmented governments as well as inter- Nikita Mazepin, another in the organisation, sustaina- Faculty Chair of the Homeland just a social phenomenon. It’s view of the phenomena of national, continental, national Formula One debutant, in the bility and legacy of sport events Security and Security and now a sector of the economy crime in sport and the need for and local sports stakeholders Haas line-up. of national, regional and inter- Global Health Projects, said: that has seen its importance a holistic approach that allows by promoting and providing Haas team principal national interest and exploring “When you think of sharing big growing exponentially in the to correctly detect and best practices, research, Guenther Steiner welcomed the development of frameworks data one of the things that big last few decades. Due to this interpret information. We are training, consultancy services his new drivers, tweeting: from which bidding and host data is really helpful is the tac- fact, a large number of people talking about big data and and other forms of capacity “Super excited about having nations, events’ organisers and tical deployment of resources.” with economic interests started algorithms that are capable of building to safeguard major two rookies in our team for the private security industry can Speaking of the big data and to get involved in sport which collecting and processing sporting events and sport at next year! Welcome, Mick!” develop their private security its importance in fighting crime led to the observation that sport many variables in a short time large. They replace Haas’s current strategies for MSE’s in sport, Giovanni Russo, represents a corruption risk and and present visual results with Further information about driver pairing of Romain Juliette Kayyem, Belfer Deputy Head Prosecutor of the vulnerability to be controlled meaningful logics and forecast the ICSS can be found at www. Grosjean -- who escaped a Senior Lecturer International Italian Antimafia by crime.” patterns to help fight theicss.org fiery crash in Sunday’s Bahrain Grand Prix -- and Kevin Magnussen. Haas will be counting on Five ACL clubs their 2021 pairing to prove Zidane in ‘serious danger’ their mettle on the track after Grosjean and Magnussen’s frugal haul of just three points seek expertise between them this campaign after Madrid crisis deepens with two races to go. Schumacher has shone in of Aspetar REUTERS – MADRID Formula Two this season and leads the standings by 14 Kyiv’s Olympic Stadium was the scene of Zinedine Zidane’s last points after achieving 10 QNA – DOHA stand as Real Madrid coach before resigning in stunning fashion podium finishes and feature- in May 2018 and the arena could spell the start of the end for race victories at Monza and Ensuring the safety of all the participants and following his second tenure after Tuesday’s defeat by Shakhtar Donetsk. Sochi. strict COVID-19 protocols, Aspetar, Orthopaedic and The 2-0 loss left Madrid potentially staring at an exit from He will get a taste of what Sports Medicine Hospital continues to support Asian the Champions League group stage for the first time but even is needed at the elite level Football, by providing outstanding medical support if they manage to beat Borussia Moenchengladbach next when he takes part in Haas’ to the AFC Champions League Competition currently week and progress, it might not be enough to save free practice ahead of the being held in Qatar. Zidane. 2020 season-ending Abu Aspetar in its role as the medical services provider Zidane shocked the football world by quitting as Dhabi Grand Prix on to the AFC champions league, is also dedicating highly Madrid coach after winning a third successive Cham- December 11 before partici- qualified doctors to support several Asian clubs that pions League crown by beating Liverpool in the Ukrainian pating in testing a few days are participating in the tournament. capital in 2018. However, he insisted there was no chance later. Meanwhile, Aspetar have been requested to of him throwing in the towel this time. Confirming the news 24 provide five clubs participating in the tournament But according to the Spanish media, Madrid president hours after Mazepin’s with club doctors to cover the absence of their medical Florentino Perez may make the decision for him. appointment, Haas announced team during the tournament. These teams were unable “Zidane is in serious danger”, said newspaper El Mundo. that they had signed Schu- to bring their own doctors to Qatar and addressed the “The defeat was so damning it was hard to count the macher “in a multi-year AFC and QFA for medical coverage. number of people responsible. Zidane is tasked with fixing agreement”. Five Doctors from Aspetar have been assigned to things urgently, but the coach may not even make it for the “This is definitely a new assist these teams throughout the tournament. (Sydney last group game. Right now his presence against Gladbach is challenge,” Schumacher FC Dr Antonio Tramullas, Perth Glory FC Dr Faical at risk.” added. Meddeb, Melbourne Victory FC Dr Sami Ben Ayad, Real Madrid’s This was Madrid’s fifth defeat in 11 matches and while they “I look forward to finding Suwon Samsung FC Dr Zaher Bensoltane and Chiang French coach could point to the absences of key players such as captain Sergio out what it’s like -- how to Rai United FC - Dr Nebojsa Kolarov). Zinedine Zidane Ramos, right back Dani Carvajal and record signing Eden improve and develop a car In Addition to the club doctors, Aspetar experts, reacts during Hazard, their problems run deep. from the beginning to the end namely, Dr Khalid l Khelaifi, Omar Al Sayrafi, Celeste the UEFA Raphael Varane, a four-time Champions League winner of the year.” Geertsema are assigned to be venue medical officers Champions and World Cup champion, yet again lost focus at a crucial The German said he was while Dr Liesel Geertsema has been assigned as AFC League Group B moment to allow Dentinho to score the opening goal and without prepared for the huge media medical delegate. match against Ramos by his side is looking increasingly vulnerable. attention as he prepares to To ensure the safety of everyone involved in the Shakhtar Perhaps more concerning is Madrid’s inability to create follow in his illustrious father’s AFC Champions League, players and officials had to Donetsk on danger. Karim Benzema is their only real threat and has only footsteps. undergo COVID-19 testing before their arrival in Qatar Tuesday. just returned from three weeks out, while Marco Asensio is not “I’ve been in the limelight while subsequent tests were conducted every three the same player since missing most of the last campaign with since my childhood, especially to six days. All players and officials including partic- a serious knee injury. because I chose this sport, but ipating Aspetar experts have been put under a bio- Zidane’s power as a motivator and problem-solver also so far I have come to terms secure bubble which has limited their movement only seems to be waning, evidenced by Madrid’s lethargic per- with it. The results speak for to the hotel, stadium and training sites. formance in the second half. themselves,” he added. With Qatar Football Federation willing to be the The Frenchman has won three Champions Leagues and “This attention has always host for the tournament, the rest of the 2020 AFC two La Liga titles in around four years as manager across two been normal for me. The Eastern Zone Champions League is taking place in spells, but his record will count for little if he cannot turn things important thing is to have Doha, with all the medical support provided by Asp- around in an unforgiving trio of upcoming matches. Madrid people who tell you the truth, etars medical team with a strict COVID-19 protocol. visit an in-form Sevilla on Saturday searching for a first league who keep you grounded and The Aspetar protocol has been in force since the victory in four matches, before Wednesday’s crunch match at help you along the way. resumption of the QSL in July. It was also used suc- home to Gladbach with their unblemished Champions League Schumacher paid tribute cessfully during the AFC Western Champions League record on the line. They then face Atletico Madrid. to his parents, saying: “I owe where 15 teams participated in Doha in October. them everything.”

This is definitely a new PL teams feeling fewer home comforts without fans challenge. I look forward to finding out MANCHESTER REUTERS – The company analysed last home teams. The number of wins has dropped from last sea- season’s Premier League games what it’s like -- how to season’s 288 Premier League yellow cards shown to the away son’s 44.8% with a crowd to with a crowd to 2.84 per match Small numbers of fans will be matches with crowds and the teams is down by 27% and it is 41.6% for the matches played with no fans in stadiums. The improve and develop a allowed to return to select 190 played since June with no players from the home sides this campaign and last with no increase is entirely due to more car from the beginning Premier League matches this spectators to see how the lack who now receive the most spectators. goals being scored by the away to the end of the year.. weekend with home clubs of spectators has impacted bookings,” he added. Away wins have increased teams. Visiting sides have I’ve been in the limelight hoping some of the advantage football in the Premier League. In matches with no crowds, from 30.2% of last season’s 288 scored 1.36 goals per match in since my childhood, that supporters traditionally “With no crowds in the visiting teams are no longer matches with spectators to empty stadiums compared to give them will return. stadium, away teams are penalised more by referees than 37.9% of the 190 to be played 1.22 in last season’s games with especially because I A new study by Nielsen’s scoring 12% more goals than home sides and are scoring more without an attendance. crowds. chose this sport, but so Gracenote, released yesterday, they did last season with goals. There is now only 3.7% In those 190 matches, there The first Premier League far I have come to terms shows beyond doubt that games crowds,” Simon Gleave, the difference between the number have been only seven more fixture to welcome fans will be with it. The results in empty stadiums have company’s head of sports of home and away wins com- home wins than away West Ham vs Manchester speak for themselves: resulted in the home advantage analysis, said. pared to 14.6% for last season’s victories. United on Saturday, before significantly declining in “Visiting sides are being matches with crowds. Goalscoring has increased Chelsea face Leeds United later Mick Schumacher importance. awarded more free kicks than The percentage of home from 2.72 per match in last that day. 10 SPORT THURSDAY 3 DECEMBER 2020

QATAR SQUAD: Meshaal Barshim, Tariq Salman, Asian champions Qatar target Abdel Karim Hassan, Boualam Khokhi, Hassan Al Haydous, Akram Afif, Musab Khidr, Muhammad Waad and Youssef Abdel Razzaq (Al Sadd). full points against Bangladesh Al Moez Ali, Karim Boudiaf, Ismail Muhammad, Abdullah Abd Al-Salam, Muhammad Imad Ayesh and Abdel- THE PENINSULA – DOHA Qatar players in action Rahman Fahmy (Al Duhail). Asian champions Qatar will not during a Ahmed Alaa ElDin, Humam be paying too much attention training Ahmed, Muayad Hassan to Bangladesh’s low rankings session. (Al Gharafa) Ahmed Fathy, when the two sides clash in a Jasim Jaber, Mahmoud FIFA and AFC joint qualifier Abu Nada (Al Arabi) tomorrow. The Group E clash of the Abdel-Aziz Hatem 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2023 and Fahd Younis AFC Asian Cup qualifying phase (Al Rayyan). will be played at Al Duhail Stadium. Coach: Felix According to influential Sanchez defender Karim Boudiaf, Qatar We will be playing with all will ignore Bangladesh’s 184 seriousness to present our ranking on the FIFA best level in order to get a computer. win. We have to fight. At the Qatar, who won the 2019 moment, we are looking at AFC Asian Cup by beating Asian ways to get three points and powerhouse Japan in the final take Qatar forward (in the in the UAE, are ranked 59. qualifying phase) and reach “I don’t think any quali- the finals to defend our fying match is easy. I don’t title: Karim Boudiaf think any one of us is consid- ering our match against Bang- ladesh as an easy clash,” Boudiaf said as coach Felix Yes, we are at the top of our Cup as the host country, the team Sanchez’s boys hit the training group and I know that every is competing to obtain qualifi- pitch yesterday. player seeks to present his best cation for the 2023 AFC Asian “We don’t want to fall into level. Everyone is ready to play,” Cup as it aspires to defend the a trap by taking an opposition he added. title that it won in 2019. lightly. I remember we played Rahman concluded by Qatar are at the top of Group a goalless draw against India in saying: “We are happy with the E (13 points from five matches) Doha in front of our own fans. phase) and reach the finals to that the Bangladesh match is an and my team mates,” Rahman resumption of football activity while last-placed Bangladesh To begin with, there are no easy defend our title,” Boudiaf said. international match and we will said after training yesterday. at the national level and we has one point from four games. matches,” he added. He added: “This match is treat it as such without “An important match awaits hope that our return will be The previous encounter “We will be playing with all completely different from the becoming complacent.” us against the Bangladesh strong against Bangladesh.” between the two teams saw seriousness to present our best three matches that we played Qatar player Abdel Rahman national team and it would be Last week coach Sanchez Qatar winning 2-0 in their away level in order to get a win. We during the Turkish and Austrian said he is ‘thrilled to be back a mistake if think that it would named 23 players for the match clash held in Dhaka. have to fight. At the moment, training camps. There is a big playing for Qatar’. be easy. There are no easy against Bangladesh. Oman (12 points), Afghan- we are looking at ways to get difference in the level of all “I am happy to return to the matches in football, especially Although Qatar national team istan (4 points) and India (3 three points and take Qatar teams, then and now. Having national team and I hope to live after all sides are returning to has booked a direct qualification points) are the other sides in the forward (in the qualifying said that, what is important is up to expectations of my coach action from COVID-19 situation. ticket to the 2022 FIFA World group. Hosting ACL matches a great testament Messi fined €600 to Qatar’s capabilities, says Al Atwan for Maradona THE PENINSULA – DOHA dressing rooms, the walking areas, tribute celebration Every tournament that we host is a new the training zones etc. There is a limit Mohammed Al Atwan, Director of challenge for us and an opportunity to gain on the number of people that can be REUTERS – MADRID Facilities Department at the AFC new experiences with chances to learn placed in one specific area stated Champions League’s (ACL) East Zone above. Lionel Messi and Barcelona have been fined a matches, has said surging confidence many lessons. These lessons will be applied This has been done to limit the combined €780 ($943) after the player was in Qatar’s ability to stage a football in any sporting event held in the future. We number of people anywhere. This shown a yellow card for lifting his shirt to pay tournament in trying circumstances aim to excel always and lead by ensuring has been done to keep the players, tribute to the late Diego Maradona following has raised the responsibility on the the implementation of the highest quality team officials, administrative staff, his goal in Sunday’s 4-0 win over Osasuna. Local Organizing Committee (LOC) standards: Mohammed Al Atwan coaches, physios and LOC team Messi, who was fined €600 while his club that remains determined to deliver members safe. The protocols are were fined 180, paid homage to his late com- a flawless event once again. applied 24×7 on matchdays. Every patriot by taking off his Barca shirt to reveal a “We have the ideal infrastructure team’s entry and exit is carefully Newell’s Old Boys shirt belonging to Maradona, to host matches of the AFC Cham- challenge for us and an opportunity respects, especially in light of hosting monitored and executed. a gesture that was praised around the world. pions League, East Zone. This infra- to gain new experiences with the high number of matches in trying The response from the visitors Yet the Spanish soccer federation’s com- structure shows the ability of the chances to learn many lessons. These circumstances because of the has been very positive, and there petition committee showed little sympathy LOC’s part to put together a great lessons will be applied in any COVID-19 situation around the have been no breaches. when upholding the rules, rejecting Barca’s pro- event. The fact that Qatar is hosting sporting event held in the future. We world. This presented a new chal- tests against the punishment and their sug- the month-long event shows the aim to excel always and lead by lenge for us, and the LOC teams were Q: Qatar is known as a sports gestion it should be waived as the gesture was confidence of FIFA and AFC has on ensuring the implementation of the quick to develop and implement hub. What’s your take on that? a tribute to Maradona. us to deliver a successful event,” Al highest quality standards. safety and health protocols under- A: Qatar’s competency in hosting The committee’s statement said that while Atwan said in an interview with QFA We also look at providing the lined by the Ministry of Public top sports events is well known. it accepted the gesture was a tribute, article 93 website. best means of protection and pre- Health. The AFC were pleased with Qatar has been hosting major sports of the disciplinary code states that a player “The LOC is providing all vention for the safety of the players our plans. We also learned many events for more many years. Qatar should be punished for removing their shirt requirements sought from us by the and participants in the tournament. vital lessons which were happily getting to host the West Zone and when celebrating, irrespective of the motive. AFC. The Asian football body has Our football facilities reflect the kind implementing during the East Zone East Zone matches – in the most The statement added that Messi could only chosen Qatar to host the East Zone of high standards we have exhibited matches. trying of circumstances – is proof of have had the sanction waived if he had been matches after we successfully con- throughout the events staged so far. that claim. Overall 30 teams – with given the booking in error. ducted the West Zone matches in And yes, we are meeting all AFC Q: What are the controls like big backroom staff – have converged Messi supports Newell’s Old Boys and Sept-Oct. We have helped AFC to requirements”. in player rooms, and how do the on Qatari soil in a short period for played for the club’s junior team before leaving complete its season in the most dif- participating teams respond? dozens of matches. for Barca aged 13. He had also paid tribute to ficult circumstances prevailing Q: How do you see the expe- A: A very well composed pro- It is a testimony that the tourna- Maradona, who played for the Rosario side in around the world because of the rience of hosting the West Zone tocol has been distributed and ments are managed by Qatari youth 1993, when the World Cup winner died last COVID-19 situation,” Al Atwan said. matches? explained to the teams when they who have proven their high capa- Wednesday. “He has left us but he isn’t going He then added “Every tour- A: Hosting West Zone matches are inside the match venues. The bilities and great experience in pre- anywhere because Diego is eternal,” Messi nament that we host is a new helped us gain experience in all area of protocols includes the vious tournaments. wrote on Instagram. AJS Wathanan lands Late Rabiah Saad Al Kaabi Cup title

THE PENINSULA – DOHA

Al Ghazali Stud’s AJS Wathanan, with Alberto Sanna in the saddle, yesterday sealed an impressive 6-length win to clinch the Late Rabiah Saad Al Kaabi Cup title on 15th Race Meeting. The Jassim Ghazali-trained 8-year-old gelding looked in top form as he outclassed his opponents in yesterday’s feature race at Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club’s Al Rayyan Park. The winning team pocketed QR57,000 for their com- manding win in the race, that offered QR100,000 as total prize money. Michael Forest guided Mehdi to second place in the LATE RABIAH SAAD AL KAABI CUP The Late Rabiah race to grab QR 22,000, with Sealine, helmed by Ronan Al Kaabi Cup Thomas securing third spot to win QR11,000. AJS Wathanan (QA), Gassim Mohammad Ghazali, Alberto Sanna Topsy Turvy was also on song yesterday, landing the THOROUGHBREDS ( Class 2) winning team Thoroughbreds (Class 2) title with jockey Tomas Lukasek. Topsy Turvy (IRE), Ibrahim Saeed Ibrahim Al Malki, Tomas Lukasek posing for a In the QR75,000 race, Sheikh Faisal bin Hamad Bin THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP (Class 3) photograph with Jassim Al Thani’s Topsy Turvy recorded a 2¾-length win, Zarandi (IRE), Hamad Ahmed Al Malki Al Jehani, Meteb Ali Al Marri the officials after securing QR42,750. JP Guillambert rode Zuhair Mohsen THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP (Class 4) AJS Wathanan Zuhair Maki-trained Shakour to second place, while High Li Kui (GB), Mohammed Hamad Al Attiya, Khalid Al Balushi won the feature Commander with Saleh Salem Al Marri in the saddle, fin- PUREBRED ARABIAN HANDICAP race of the day. ished third. Al Neksh (FR), Gassim Mohammad Ghazali, Ali Khalid Al Mosallam LEFT: Jockey Also yesterday, Saeed Nasser Al Qadi’s Zarandi, guided LOCAL THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP Alberto Sanna by Meteb Ali Al Saaq, topped Thoroughbred Handicap Mizoun (QA), Ibrahim Saeed Ibrahim Al Malki, Francois Herholdt guiding AJS (Class 3), finishing ahead of Dheban and Ernest Aldrich, LOCAL PUREBRED ARABIAN NOVICE PLATE Wathanan to who finished second and third respectively. Lama (QA), Abdulaziz Hamad A A Al Marri, Ali Khalid Al Mosallam victory in the The Today, riders will compete for Ras Laffan Cup honours, PUREBRED ARABIAN MAIDEN PLATE Late Rabiah Al which will feature a total of eight races. Khaldoun (QA), Alban Elie Marie De Mieulle, Ronan Thomas Kaabi Cup. THURSDAY 3 DECEMBER 2020 SPORT 09 Qatar speed up preparation for World 2021

THE PENINSULA — DOHA

Qatar’s handball squad is set to Asian champions play a friendly today in a clash that will be the first of a series of matches ahead of the 2021 eye top 8 finish in IHF World Championship to be held in Egypt next month. next month's event Though the first friendly today is against Al Arabi - which won the Amir Cup four weeks IHF — DOHA ago - Director of National Teams Youssef Al Hail said in At the 2015 IHF Men’s World an interview the squad has ben- Championship, Qatar made a efited from the extensive name for themselves in the training sessions conducted by handball world. The silver coach Valero Rivera. medal they claimed on home Qatar are set to play two soil – they lost to France 22:25 international games in the in the final – set the bar coming weeks before fea- considerably high for them in turing in a Four-Nation Series the following international involving Spain, Argentina competitions. and Tunisia at the end of this Still led by legendary month. Spanish-born coach Valero The Four-Nation Series Rivera (pictured), they ranked will be held from Dec 25-29 among the top eight teams at at Duhail Indoor Sports Hall. France 2017 – for the second The 2021 IHF World Men’s time in history. Two years Handball Championship will be later, at Germany/Denmark Qatar are a mature side held from Jan 13 to 31 in Egypt. 2019, they did not succeed to with plenty of distinguished “The national team is pre- make it into the main round athletes. Veteran goalkeeper paring for the World Champi- Qatar’s handball squad is set to play a friendly today in a clash that will be the first of a series of and had to settle for 13th place. Danijel Saric is undoubtedly onship through training camp matches ahead of the 2021 IHF World Championship. Last January, they took one of them. The 43-year-old based in Doha. This is not usual gold for the fourth consecutive Al Duhail player, one of the before the world champion- “Valero Rivera is WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP Regarding the preparations time at the 2020 AHF Men’s stars in the Qatar 2015 feat, ships because going for undoubtedly a world-class ahead of the Four-Nation Asian Championship in had a save percentage of 31% overseas camps is always best coach and is vastly experienced. KEY PLAYERS Series, Al Hail said in the Kuwait. It was a perfect run of at Germany/Denmark 2019 when it comes training sessions, He is always striving to renew Frankis Marzo (left back), interview published in Arabic seven victories in seven and still has much to offer. attending lectures, developing the national team by including Danijel Saric (goalkeeper), daily Al Watan: “There will be matches, which shows the The Asian team can be a proper sleep pattern and young players and new faces so Youssef Ben Ali (line player) three friendly matches against pre-eminence of the Gulf extremely dangerous in looking after nutrition,” Al Hail that there is enthusiasm in the QUALIFICATION FOR EGYPT the club teams. And then we nation in the continent. offence. Cuban-born left back said. squad. He wants players with 2021 play in the Four-Nation Series. In the semi-final, Qatar Frankis Marzo was the third- “But the COVID-19 situation ambition and we hope that this 2020 AHF Men’s Asian We have ambition to continue defeated Bahrain 28:24, taking highest scorer at Kuwait 2020 imposed challenges on all of us development will be reflected Championship – 1st place achieving advanced positions revenge for the loss suffered with 30 goals and earned a and that did not allow us to at the national team level,” Al HISTORY OF TOURNAMENT at all event we take part in.” in 2019 in the same round at place on the All-star Team. establish an external camp,” he Hail. 2003: 16th, 2005: 21st, He pointed out that the the Men’s Asian Olympic The 33-year-old attacker, who added. The Director of National 2007: 23rd, 2013: 20th, national team’s preparations Qualification event. They were plays his club handball for “It is a real challenge given Teams admitted next month’s 2015: 2nd, 2017: 8th, 2019: for the 2021 World Cup ‘are crowned champions after a Sporting CP in Portugal, con- the circumstances but despite 32-team World Championship 13th proceeding according to plan 33:21 triumph against Republic tributed 39 goals at Germany/ all that, we are continuing to presented a tough challenge. GROUPS despite the difficulties of Korea, whom they had pre- Denmark 2019. work hard, to prepare with “The competition in the Group C (Croatia, Qatar, imposed by the COVID-19 viously beaten 34:27 in the Al Duhail left back Rafael ambition,” he added in an World Cup is different from the Japan, Angola) pandemic. main round. Capote and Alarabi SC line interview. Asian Championship (which “We have been training “We aim to be among the player Youssef Ben Ali are Al Hail praised coach Rivera Qatar won earlier this year). daily helping the players get first eight teams,” says Valero from the same generation as in developing a ‘quality squad’ Rather, it is stronger and more European teams, but despite ready for friendly and then the Rivera ahead of next month's Marzo. Cuban-born Capote in the last few years. difficult than the capabilities of this we know that our World Four-Nation Series. We are World Championships in scored 30 goals at the last Cup group is not difficult and looking at our performance at Egypt. Asian Championship and pro- there would no excuse for the World Cup because we After Kuwait 2020, he vides a torrent of shooting Qatar are set to play two international games in the coming weeks before players not to provide a good Qatari handball teams have affirms that the defence is the power. Ben Ali, born in featuring in a Four-Nation Series involving Spain, Argentina and Tunisia at the level and reach the second achieved a lot over the years. part of his team he trusts the Tunisia, was named the All- end of this month. The Four-Nation Series will be held from Dec 25-29 at Duhail round,” Al Hail said. We hope that our successes will most. On the contrary, he star Pivot at Kuwait 2020 and Indoor Sports Hall. The 2021 IHF World Men’s Handball Championship will be Qatar are in third group of continue. We know that the task mentions they must work hard was the leading scorer for 2021 World Championship will not be easy, but we have “on the direct Qatar with 46 goals at the last held from Jan 13 to 31 in Egypt. along with Angola, Japan and full confidence in our team,” Al counter-attacks.” World Championship. Croatia. Hail said. Athletes to be Less contact, short trips: Virus-hit tested ‘every 96-120 hours’ Olympics bosses set out rules

during Games: AFP — TOKYO

Organisers’ Athletes at the coronavirus- postponed Tokyo Olympics report will face regular testing, restrictions on mingling and potential punishment for non- REUTERS — TOKYO compliance with health rules, organisers said yesterday as Athletes will need to provide a negative they outlined plans for COVID-19 test taken less than 72 hours holding the Games. before arriving in Japan for the Olympics After months of talks, offi- and will be tested “every 96-120 hours” cials issued a 54-page report during the Games, according to a report outlining how they believe the published by organisers yesterday. Games can go ahead, even if The giant Olympic rings which During talks between the Tokyo 2020 the pandemic is not under were temporarily taken down organising committee, the Japanese gov- control by the new start date in August for maintenance are ernment and Tokyo Metropolitan Gov- of July 2021. illuminated after being reinstalled ernment, further guidelines for how the Quarantine requirements at the waterfront area at Odaiba Japanese capital plans to host the rear- will be waived for overseas Marine Park, amid the coronavirus ranged Games next year were spectators, who will also be disease (COVID 19) outbreak, in discussed. able to use public transport, Tokyo, on Tuesday. Current visitors to Japan need to quar- but they will have to observe antine for 14 days upon arrival but ath- rules ranging from mask- letes and other key stakeholders arriving wearing and a ban on for the Games will be exempt from those cheering to keeping their restrictions. ticket stubs to help More than 15,000 athletes are contact-tracing. expected in Tokyo for the Olympics, which Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro begin on July 23, with the majority staying Muto acknowledged strict he said. Athletes will be However, officials have International Olympic rigorous safety guidelines. at the purpose-built Athletes’ Village. safety measures will make the screened on arrival in Japan not yet announced how com- Committee. Muto said organisers were The report detailed that a testing games “different”, but and then undergo regular petition rules would be “This is not a law, but we working on the assumption centre would be set up in the village for expressed hope they can still tests every four to five days affected if an athlete con- need to be careful and ask that a vaccine will not be in-competition testing. be held in a celebratory during their stay at the tracted coronavirus during people to lay out precau- available by the time the Organisers will also be encouraging atmosphere. Olympic Village. the Games. tions,” said Muto. Games begin, despite positive athletes to spend less time in Tokyo than “It will be simple rather An infection control All athletes must sign up “We will create a system results in tests in recent they usually would. than festive, but I hope it centre will also be set up to to a code of conduct that that allows team leaders or weeks. He added that the cost “We want to be considerate to the ath- will be something moving deal with positive cases, includes avoiding speaking athlete representatives to of the virus countermeasures letes, so the village doesn’t get too dense,” that encourages people which organisers say they loudly, avoiding physical provide cautions.” had not yet been calculated, Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto told through the power of sport,” presume will occur. contact with others and Concrete measures to although reports last week reporters after the talks. wearing masks when not determine how many fans estimated them at $1bn. “After the Games are finished, we training or competing. will be able to attend will be The same report calcu- want the athletes to go back home as early After months of talks, officials issued a 54-page report outlining how they They will also be asked to decided in the spring, with lated that postponing the as possible.” believe the Games can go ahead, even if the pandemic is not under control leave Japan as soon as their infection rates around the Games from their original Reports in the Japanese media earlier by the new start date of July 2021. events are over, rather than world at the time taken into date this year will add another yesterday claimed that “large-scale” stay on in the country for account. $2bn to the price tag. numbers of overseas visitors will be sightseeing. Organisers have decided Enthusiasm for the Games allowed into Tokyo for the Games. Quarantine requirements will be waived for overseas spectators, who will - Fan quarantine that imposing a two-week has been waning in Japan, However, the interim report stated also be able to use public transport, but they will have to observe rules ‘impractical’ - quarantine on visiting fans is with a poll in July showing just that a final decision on the number of ranging from mask-wearing and a ban on cheering to keeping their ticket Penalties for non-com- “impractical” given the time one in four people wanted to foreign spectators and other personnel stubs to help contact-tracing. pliance have yet to be deter- constraints, and will instead see them held in 2021. Most from abroad wouldn’t be decided until mined and will be drawn up ask them to download backed either a further delay the spring. in conjunction with the tracking apps and abide by or a cancellation. Sport THURSDAY 3 DECEMBER 2020 08 1,000 fans India win tense final ODI to avoid allowed to attend Joshua clean sweep against Australia vs Pulev fight

AFP – CANBERRA SCOREBOARD in London INDIA India survived a blistering S. Dhawan c Agar b Abbott ...... 16 REUTERS – LONDON Glenn Maxwell half-century to S. Gill lbw b Agar ...... 33 hold their nerve for a 13-run V. Kohli c Carey b Hazlewood ...... 63 A crowd of 1,000 will be allowed to victory and deny Australia a S. Iyer c Labuschagne b Zampa ...... 19 attend Anthony Joshua’s world heav- K.L. Rahul lbw b Agar...... 5 one-day international series H. Pandya not out ...... 92 yweight title defence against clean sweep in Canberra R. Jadeja not out ...... 66 Bulgarian Kubrat Pulev at London’s yesterday. Extras (b1 lb1 nb2 w4) ...... 8 Wembley Arena on Dec. 12, organ- While the explosive Total (50 overs; for five wickets) ...... 302 isers said yesterday. Maxwell was at the crease Aus- Fall of wickets: 1-26, 2-82, 3-114, 4-123, 5-152 Joshua’s IBF, WBA, WBO and IBO tralia were on track to reel in Did not bat: S. Thakur, K. Yadav, J. Bumrah, T. belts will be on the line in a bout India's 302-5 total. Natarajan rescheduled as a result of the But Jasprit Bumrah got the Bowling: Hazlewood 10-1-66-1 (2w 1nb), Max- COVID-19 pandemic. well 5-0-27-0 (2w), Abbott 10-0-84-1, Green crucial breakthrough bowling 4-0-27-0 (1nb), Agar 10-0-44-2, Zampa 10-0- It will be the Briton’s first fight in Maxwell with a trademark 45-1, Henriques 1-0-7-0 a home ring in more than two years. yorker for 59 off 38 balls Promoter Matchroom Boxing studded with three fours and AUSTRALIA said strict safety measures would be four sixes. M. Labuschagne b Natarajan...... 7 enforced for a fight that was That left Australia 38 runs A. Finch c Dhawan b Jadeja ...... 75 scheduled for the 02 Arena but away from victory with three S. Smith c Rahul b Thakur ...... 7 moved for logistical reasons. M. Henriques c Dhawan b Thakur ...... 22 wickets and 35 balls left, but C. Green c Jadeja b Yadav ...... 21 “I can’t tell you how happy I am India claimed the remaining A. Carey run out (Kohli/Rahul) ...... 38 to see fans returning to our live wickets to clinch victory with G. Maxwell b Bumrah ...... 59 boxing events,” said Matchroom boss three balls left. A. Agar c Yadav b Natarajan ...... 28 Eddie Hearn in a statement. Australian players pose for a photo after winning the one-day international series against India Australia won the opening S. Abbott c Rahul b Thakur ...... 4 “Whilst the team have done an at Manuka Oval in Canberra, yesterday. two matches in Sydney by 66 A. Zampa lbw b Bumrah ...... 4 incredible job over the last 10 runs and 51 runs, but India J. Hazlewood not out ...... 7 months we live and breathe through emphatically ended their five- Extras: (lb6, nb2, w9) ...... 17 the energy and atmosphere that a Total: (49.3 overs; all out) ...... 289 game ODI losing streak -- their Fall of wickets: 1-25, 2-56, 3-117, 4-123, 5-158, live crowd generates. worst since January 2016 -- to Kohli tops 12,000 ODI runs “It’s so fitting that they can return 6-210, 7-268, 8-278, 9-278, 10-289 pull off an exciting victory Bowling: Bumrah 9.3-0-43-2 (5w), Natarajan for an AJ fight, when through the last ahead of tomorrow's first of 10-1-70-2 (4w 1nb), Thakur 10-1-51-3, Yadav AP – CANBERRA few years he has broken all kinds of three Twenty20 matches 10-0-57-1, Jadeja 10-0-62-1 (1nb) attendance records in the UK and against the Australians in Result: India won by 13 runs India captain Virat Kohli beyond. This is such a positive move Canberra. Series: Australia 2-1 (pictured) scored 63 runs and for boxing and all sport.” India's victory was made became the fastest player to possible by an unbroken well," said Australia captain surpass 12,000 runs in one-day I can’t tell you how happy I 150-run partnership between Aaron Finch, who topscored for internationals as the visitors man-of-the-match Hardik his team with 75 off 82 balls. beat Australia by 13 runs am to see fans returning to Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja to Marnus Labuschagne, pro- yesterday in the last of three ODI our live boxing events. Whilst swing the momentum after moted to open the innings in matches at Manuka Oval. the team have done an Josh Hazlewood once again David Warner's injury absence, India, which lost the first incredible job over the last 10 proved Virat Kohli's nemesis. played on T. Natarajan for two matches at the Sydney months we live and breathe "I have been working hard seven bringing Steve Smith Cricket Ground, scored 302-5 to play for my country, happy early to the crease after cen- and bowled Australia out for through the energy and that I've got the opportunity," tury-plus opening stands in the 289 with three balls remaining. atmosphere that a live crowd Pandya said. first two games. The visitors made up for a generates. Hazlewood again got the India got the vital break- slow start with an unbeaten Promoter Eddie Hearn measure of the India master through in the 12th over dis- 150-run partnership between batsman, dismissing him for 63 missing Smith, coming off man- Hardik Pandya (92) and to put the tourists under mid- of-the-match centuries in the Ravindra Jadeja (66), a record innings pressure in the dead first two games, for just seven for India for the sixth-wicket rubber. to an innocuous leg-side flick against Australia. The pair MOST RUNS IN ONE DAY INTERNATIONALS Kohli's exit threw down the off Shardul Thakur. added 110 runs in the last 10 gauntlet to Pandya, who fin- Alex Carey was run out by overs. India lost both openers in Sachin Tendulkar (INDIA) 18426 ished top-scorer with 92 off 76 Kohli for 38, ending a pro- the first 16 overs. Shikar balls with some late fireworks ductive partnership with Dhawan played a loose shot off Kumar Sangakkara (Asia/ICC/SL) 14234 with Ravindra Jadeja 66 (50), Maxwell. Sean Abbott to Ashton Agar in who seized the momentum for Maxwell produced a prodi- the covers for 16, and Shubman Ricky Ponting (AUS/ICC) 13704 India, adding 76 runs in the last gious reverse sweep for six off Gill was trapped lbw for 33 Sanath Jayasuriya (Asia/SL) 13430 five overs. Yadav which covered 100m trying to sweep Agar. Kohli was out when a high into the stands in arguably Kohli became the fastest Mahela Jayawardene (Asia/SL) 12650 review instigated by wicket- the biggest hit of the season and player to score the 12,000 ODI keeper Alex Carey picked up a then he brought up his half- career runs when he tapped Virat Kohli (INDIA) 12040 Brett Gosper faint spike on 'Ultra-Edge' off century with another six of Abbott to mid-off and took a Hazlewood which reversed the Natarajan. quick single. Inzamam-ul-Haq (Asia/PAK) 11739 on-field decision. Bumrah ended Maxwell's Kohli achieved the feat in his It was Hazlewood's third fireworks to India's great relief 242nd innings, 59 innings Jacques Kallis (Afr/ICC/SA) 11579 World Rugby dismissal of Kohli in the three- with one of his trademark quicker than Sachin match series and a massive yorkers, bowling the Australian Tendulkar. Sourav Ganguly (Asia/INDIA) 11363 chief Gosper breakthrough for the Aus- dangerman and leaving the The now-retired Tendulkar tralians who had reduced India home side tantalisingly close has the highest number of ODI Rahul Dravid (Asia/ICC/INDIA) 10889 to switch to to 152-5 in the 32nd over. to victory before India held on runs with 18,426. "I thought we fought really for a tense win. NFL role Eighth member of Challenges as South Africa seek to AFP – DUBLIN World Rugby chief Brett Gosper is Pakistan touring to step down in January to take up a new role as head of the NFL in hit back against 'favourites' England Europe and the UK, it was squad tests announced yesterday. AFP – CAPE TOWN Captain Eoin Morgan holds the balance in the form of During Gosper’s nine-year spell positive for virus trophy after England won the all-rounders, with at the sport’s global governing body, World Cup champions T20 series against South Africa Andile Phehlukwayo sevens became part of the Olympic on Tuesday. REUTERS – CANTERBURY England start as strong unavailable and Dwaine programme and the World Cup was favourites when they Pretorius injured in staged in Asia for the first time. take on a South Africa training. Chief operating officer Alan One more member of the Pakistan cricket side struggling on and Leading fast bowler Gilpin will perform the role of squad touring New Zealand has returned off the pitch in a three- Kagiso Rabada missed interim CEO until Gosper’s a positive COVID-19 test, New Zealand’s match one-day inter- the third match and was replacement is appointed. Ministry of Health said yesterday, bringing national series starting ruled out of the one-day “It’s been a fantastic nine years,” the total tally of infections within the party at Newlands in Cape series by a hip injury. said Gosper, a former Australian to eight. Town tomorrow. Also unavailable was under-21 international who played The new case, confirmed in Can- In their most recent the powerful left-handed club rugby in France. terbury, was one of three that were under one-day international batsman, David Miller, “Rugby is a wonderful sport and investigation from Tuesday, with the other series, South Africa which Boucher said World Rugby is a fantastic organi- two still to be determined. beat Australia 3-0. affected the effectiveness sation, and therefore it was a very A ministry statement, which did not But that was a long of the top-order batting. difficult decision to leave. name the person who returned a positive time ago, as coach Both teams will be “But with a new ambitious stra- test, said the team is not allowed to train Mark Boucher pointed much-changed for the tegic plan set to launch and the until the Canterbury health officials are out in the aftermath of one-day series. strong foundations in place to drive satisfied that any training activities are South Africa’s 3-0 Star England players the sport forward beyond the pan- unlikely to result in transmission of trouncing by England Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer demic, the time is right for me to COVID-19. in a Twenty20 interna- and Sam Curran are begin a new challenge.” Two of the eight confirmed cases for tional series which ended with a nine- and will face a disciplinary hearing being rested, while T20 player of the Christopher Halpin, NFL exec- COVID-19 have been deemed “historic” wicket defeat at the same Newlands on December 14. Gwaza was men- series, Dawid Malan, and all-rounder utive vice president and chief and not infectious, with the Pakistan ground on Tuesday. tioned numerous times in a forensic Chris Jordan were not selected for the strategy and growth officer, praised Cricket Board (PCB) saying those players The series against Australia was report which led to the firing of chief one-day games. Gosper’s “exceptional skills and are in isolation in the facility as the other back in March and much has changed executive Thabang Moroe in August. South Africa will surely welcome experience”. members of the squad who have tested since then, not least a lengthy, coro- The challenges facing Boucher back Miller and Phehlukwayo along “The UK has been a core market negative. navirus-induced break for the South and the national selectors are both with several or all of Janneman Malan, of investment and growth for the The PCB, which has not identified African team and upheaval in the medical and political. Jon-Jon Smuts, Kyle Verreynne and NFL over the last decade, and we those who tested positive, said all those boardroom and offices of Cricket It has been reported locally that Keshav Maharaj, who played in the believe broader Europe presents a who return negative tests are expected to South Africa. the racial transformation targets for winning series against Australia. number of similar attractive oppor- be able to train in managed isolation. It was perhaps symbolic that an the national team are to be increased England’s batting will be bolstered tunities to expand the game and our After another round of testing on announcement was made by the so that by 2023 no more than four by Test captain Joe Root, while there fan base,” he said. Sunday, all the players who clear the recently-appointed interim board of white players may be picked in an will be a new-look bowling attack in “Brett’s exceptional skills and 14-day health check will be allowed to CSA during Tuesday’s match that the eleven. which all-rounder Chris Woakes and experience make him the ideal leave the managed isolation facility. organisation’s company secretary, The South African teams that fast bowlers Mark Wood and Olly leader to build on our momentum Welsh Gwaza, had been suspended played in the T20 series lacked Stone could feature. and grow the NFL.”