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FOOTBALL Ronaldo powers Juve to ninth straight Serie A title Title is Sarri’s first and extends a record run which Conte started with three titles from 2012 and Allegri continued with five

AFP Milan, Italy

ristiano Ronaldo pow- ered Juventus to their Cninth straight Serie A title on Sunday in a 2-0 win over Sampdoria that put them over the line with two matches to spare. Ronaldo opened the scoring deep into fi rst half stoppage time in Turin and then had a hand in Federico Bernardeschi netting the second after 66 minutes. The fi ve-time Ballon d’Or win- ner missed a late penalty but Maurizio Sarri’s side moved seven The Serie A title is a first for Juventus coach Maurizio Sarri. (AFP) points ahead of second-placed In- ter Milan to seal a 36th ‘Scudetto’. The title is Sarri’s fi rst and ex- Juve could lose Dybala for Champions tends a record run which Antonio League with thigh injury Conte started with three titles from 2012 and Massimiliano Al- AFP elongation of the rectus femoris legri continued with the follow- Milan, Italy muscle of the left thigh. His ing fi ve. condition will be evaluated day Sarri’s team had missed the by day”. chance to wrap up the title on rgentina forward Paulo That type of injury usually Thursday when the ‘Old Lady’ of ADybala faces a race to be requires between 10 days and Italian football fell to a 2-1 defeat fit for Juventus’s Cham- two weeks recovery time. at Udinese. pions League last 16 return-leg Dybala will miss Juventus’s But they made no mistake at game against Lyon on August final two league games against the Allianz Stadium despite be- 7 after the Italian champions Cagliari and Roma this week, ing pushed hard by Claudio Rani- confirmed yesterday he had and is at risk for the match eri’s Sampdoria, one of the most suff ered a thigh injury. against Lyon in Turin, when in-form teams since the return Both Dybala and Brazilian they need to overturn a 1-0 of Serie A from the three-month Juventus’ Cristiano Ronaldo (centre) celebrates with teammates after scoring during the Serie A match against Sampdoria at the Allianz Stadium right-back Danilo were forced deficit from the first match in coronavirus lockdown. in Turin, Italy, on Sunday. (AFP) off as Juventus sealed a ninth France. “It is the most beautiful suc- consecutive league title with a The 26-year-old has been a key cess, even the most diffi cult be- shrugged off the quick succes- 34 season. those who have suff ered and are the fi nal move of the fi rst half, 2-0 win over Sampdoria in Turin member of Maurizio Sarri’s side cause we wanted it and suff ered,” sion of matches played in hot But he remains three goals be- suff ering from the pandemic that when Pjanic cleverly rolled a pass on Sunday night. this season with 17 goals in all said defender Leonardo Bonucci. summer weather after the lock- hind Serie A’s leading scorer Ciro has taken us all by surprise by across the penalty area to allow Juventus said that tests on competitions, including 11 in the “We started on a new path with down, bringing his tally to 31 this Immobile, who scored a hat- overturning the world. Ronaldo to lash home his 31st Dybala yesterday “revealed an league. a lot of scepticism around us, we season. trick earlier in Lazio’s 5-1 win “It was not easy! Your cour- league goal of the season. gave everything, despite some The Portuguese striker has over Hellas Verona. age, your attitude and your de- Juventus made sure of the ti- when Morten Thorsby was sent fi rst match in France. slip-ups. It was a complicated scored 10 goals since football re- “Delighted for the second con- termination were the strength tle in second half when Bernar- off for a second yellow card. Danilo took a knock, while year for everyone in the world, turned in Italy on June 20, more secutive championship and to we needed to face this tight fi nal deschi pounced on the rebound But the match could prove infl uential forward Paulo Dy- it was diffi cult to return after so than any other player in Europe. continue building the history of of the championship and fi ght to of a Ronaldo shot and tapped in a costly for Juventus before the bala limping off with a muscular many months not playing.” He also matched former Italy this great and splendid club,” said the end for this title that belongs decisive fi nish. return leg of their Champions problem early in the match will World Cup winner Felice Borel, Ronaldo on Instagram. to all of Italy. Sampdoria had no way back League last 16 tie against Lyon be a worry for Sarri with Lyon’s RONALDO ‘DELIGHT’ who was the last player to score “This title is dedicated to all “A big hug to you all!” into the game and had to play on August 7, when they need to visit to Turin less than two weeks Despite his 35 years Ronaldo 31 goals for Juventus in the 1933- Juventus fans, in particular to The breakthrough came in the fi nal 20 minutes a man down overturn a 1-0 defi cit from the away.

HORSE RACING CRICKET Sheikh Mohamed’s Tamaris too good in Rain frustrates England victory handicap victory at Wolverhampton charge, Broad’s 500 bid

Agencies Jason Watson AFP Wolverhampton, United Kingdom rides Tamaris to Manchester, United Kingdom Sky Sports Racing HD Virgin 535 is Highness Sheikh ain wiped out the fourth Handicap victory at Mohamed bin Khalifa day’s play at Old Traf- Wolverhampton in al-Thani’s homebred ford yesterday to frus- H the UK on Sunday. R Tamaris got off the (Debbie Burt) trate England’s bid for a mark in a dazzling style at Wol- series-clinching win over the West verhampton, United Kingdom, Indies and keep Stuart Broad wait- on Sunday. ing for his 500th Test wicket. In his fourth time of asking Bad weather meant the whole and handicap debut, the brown of the penultimate day’s play colt dismantled the 11-runner in the deciding third Test was fi eld in the Sky Sports Racing washed out, with the umpires Groundstaff hold a pitch cover at Old Traff ord yesterday. (Reuters) HD Virgin 535 Handicap with a fi nally abandoning any hope of massive six-and-a-half-length action soon after 4pm local time. out for 197 in reply to England’s Muttiah Muralitharan (800), win in the 2,200m contest for England do, however, still have 369, which included Broad’s Australian Shane Warne (708) three-year-olds. one day left to press for a win that dashing 62. and India’s Anil Kumble (619). Under a perfect ride by Jason would see them take the three- And after England made 226-2 The only seamers ahead of Watson, Tamaris sat near the match series 2-1. declared in their second innings, Broad are his long-time England rear and travelled smoothly at Broad is just one wicket away there was still time for Broad to new-ball colleague James An- the early stages. Five furlongs from becoming only the seventh strike twice by removing John derson (589 wickets) and Aus- before the fi nish line, he began bowler to join the “500 club” Campbell and nightwatchman tralia’s Glenn McGrath (563) and to make up ground with a quick He never looked back seeing off by Michael Bell, was the runner- It was the fi rst victory in his after taking all six West Indies Kemar Roach. That left Broad on the West Indies’ Courtney Walsh forward move. Two furlongs his rivals and putting the race to up under Hayley Turner. Isay- career, which started only in wickets that fell on Sunday. 499 Test wickets. (519), both of whom are retired. later, he took the lead. Then, he bed comfortably and decisively alittleprayer, trained by Gary June this year, but in a manner The 34-year-old paceman re- The only bowlers with more West Indies will resume on showed a brilliant turn of foot for his trainer Roger Charlton. Moore, was third under Hector that suggests it certainly will turned fi rst-innings fi gures of than 600 Test wickets are a trio 10-2, chasing an unlikely victory kicking clear in the fi nal bend. Ray’s The One, who is trained Crouch. not be the last. 6-31 as West Indies were bundled of former spinners — Sri Lanka’s target of 399. Gulf Times 2 Tuesday, July 28, 2020 FOOTBALL

SERIE A SPOTLIGHT Mbappe out ‘three weeks’ and doubtful Ronaldo trumps for Atalanta tie

AFP Paris

ylian Mbappe will be Sarri-ball as Juve sidelined for “around Kthree weeks” after spraining his ankle in the French Cup fi nal, likely ruling him out of Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League quarter-fi nal against Atalanta on August 12. The France forward limped off win another title in the fi rst half of Friday’s 1-0 win over Saint-Etienne after a dread- ful tackle that resulted in a red Ronaldo has scored 31 goals in Serie A this season with two games still remaining card for opposing captain Loic Perrin. PSG said yesterday medi- Reuters cal imaging had confi rmed the Turin initial test results of a sprained right ankle, with Mbappe also sustaining ligament damage. aurizio Sarri was hired by The club indicated the ex- Juventus to impose his re- pected timeline for his return Mnowned high-tempo passing was “around three weeks”, game on the team but the new meaning he will miss Friday’s coach stumbled across a small problem French League Cup fi nal against — everything revolves around Cristiano Lyon. The diagnosis also leaves Ronaldo. Mbappe a huge doubt for PSG’s In the end, it was the individual bril- resumption of their Champions liance of players such as Ronaldo and League campaign, although the playmaker Paulo Dybala, rather than the 21-year-old could be fi t to return Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian manager’s tactics, which brought Juve for the semi-fi nals if Thomas Mbappe walks with crutches their ninth successive Serie A crown and Tuchel’s side advance. after an injury during the French Sarri his fi rst major title in Italian foot- The latter stages of European Cup final against Saint-Etienne ball. Ronaldo has so far scored 31 goals club football’s fl agship compe- in Paris on Friday. (AFP) in Serie A this season and his previously tition will be played in a unique uneasy partnership with Dybala, who the straight knockout tournament ‘Final Eight’ mini tournament club tried to sell before the start of the in Lisbon due to the diffi culties at the Estadio da Luz, with the season, has fl ourished to the extent that caused by the coronavirus pan- semi-fi nals programmed for Au- the pair are now dubbed “Dybaldo” by demic. PSG against Atalanta will gust 18-19 and the fi nal to be held the Italian media. be the fi rst quarter-fi nal of the August 23. Juventus had won their previous fi ve titles under the pragmatic leadership of Massimiliano Allegri but the club wanted something more fl amboyant and hired Sarri to provide it. However, it soon be- Sarri savours ‘sweet’ fi rst title came clear that Juve were not going to aft er diffi cult debut season weave intricate patterns through defenc- es in the way Sarri’s Napoli side had — a Milan: Maurizio Sarri described years,” said Sarri, whose only style that became known as ‘Sarri-ball’. his first league title with Juven- previous trophy was the Europa Sarri found that old habits die hard and tus as “tasting sweet” after a League last year with Chelsea. on several occasions vented his frustra- diff icult debut season for the “Every year it is harder. There is tion that his team had sat back Allegri- veteran coach overshadowed nothing acquired in sport and it style on their lead. by a three-month coronavirus is not easy to stay at this level. It “If we are going to just pass the ball lockdown. “I told the players ‘if has been a very hard, very long, around, then at least we should do it in you win with me who has never strange season. To succeed the opposition’s half of the fi eld,” he said won anything, it is because you in being champions with two after a 2-1 win over AS Roma. are really strong’,” Sarri said af- rounds to go, is the great merit The coach also explained that he had ter the Turin giants sealed their of this group.” to take the characteristics of his players ninth league title in a row on Sarri praised club president into account, above all Ronaldo — whose Sunday. Juventus beat Samp- Andrea Agnelli and off icials for presence requires special attention. That doria 2-0 to move seven points helping him find his feet during raised the question as to whether the ahead of second-placed Inter his first season at the 36-times 35-year-old Portugal forward might even Milan and seal a 36th ‘Scudetto’ Italian champions. “The presi- be a hindrance to the side. with two games to spare. dent is a person who gives you At one point, there were murmurs that both goals in a 2-1 win over Parma. “You which saw them take one point from fi ve a goal apiece as three stunning second- The title is 61-year-old Sarri’s energy, the leaders are always Juventus looked better on the few occa- just have to be clear that everything re- games. half strikes secured a 3-1 win. first and extends a record present,” he said. sions Ronaldo was absent and that Dybala volves around him.” Meanwhile, Inter Milan, who led for “Paulo’s great slalom, Ronaldo’s shot Juventus run which Antonio “When you arrive you have had a better understanding with his fel- Juve were also helped by the inconsist- the early part of the season, repeatedly let which was incredible for its precision and Conte started with three titles to enter on tiptoe. Then it’s a low Argentine Gonzalo Higuain. encies of their rivals, especially when the matches slip from their grasp. Juve’s foot- strength and the sensitive touch (from from 2012 and Massimiliano Al- long journey. You can’t arrive “Sometimes, Ronaldo creates a small season resumed after the three-month ball rarely fl owed — free-scoring Atalanta Douglas Costa) — that was how we solved legri continued with the follow- at a club that has been winning problem because you have a champion novel coronavirus stoppage. proved far more enjoyable to watch — but the match, thanks to our individualities ing five. “It has a sweet taste. for eight years and want to in the team and it has to be set up around Lazio, one point behind the Turin side Ronaldo and Dybala were always there to and phenomenal skills,” said the coach. Winning is hard and this club change everything. It wouldn’t him but, at the same time he solves 100 when the league re-started, were rav- get them out of tricky situations, such as ‘Sarri-ball’ will have to wait for an- has been winning for so many be smart.” of them,” said Sarri after Ronaldo scored aged by injuries and lost touch after a run in the match at Genoa where they scored other time.

QNB STARS LEAGUE ROUND-UP Title race hots up aft er Duhail Barca confi dent Messi will sign new deal arcelona President Josep Maria was suspended in early March because of held by Umm Salal Bartomeu says he has “no doubt” the Covid-19 pandemic and will resume in Bthat captain Lionel Messi will sign West Asia hub Qatar on Sept 14. a new contract with the La Liga Malaysia will host Group G and Group H club. Messi, whose deal expires in 2021, matches from Oct 17-Nov 1 and a semi-fi nal had called his side “weak” and “inconsist- on Nov 28. It will also host last-16 games ent” after they lost the league title to Real from the two groups on Nov 4 and two Madrid. “Messi has said many times that quarter-fi nals on Nov 25. he wants to retire here and I have no doubt Teams from China, Australia, South Ko- that he will re-sign,” Bartomeu told Mundo rea, Japan and Malaysia will play in the East Deportivo. Asia regional hub, while teams from Qatar, Paris St Germain forward Neymar has the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, been linked with a return to Camp Nou but Iraq, Iran and Uzbekistan will play in the Bartomeu said the only way for Barcelona to West Asia hub. sign the Brazilian would be through a player The centralised venue for Groups E and F exchange. “Now we are making decisions and the remaining knockout stage matches and the players, if they do not come as part have not yet been confi rmed. The AFC of a player exchange, it is very diffi cult for said this month that group games would them to come,” Bartomeu added. be played in full in a round-robin format ing with the Ukrainian team, following a while knockouts rounds would be reduced HOFFENHEIM APPOINT SEBASTIAN backlash from fans. “With regret I decided to single games from the usual two-legged HOENESS AS COACH to give up on my possible collaboration with tie format. The fi nal pitting the best teams Sebastian Hoeness, reserve-team coach Dynamo Kiev,” 74-year-old Lucescu told from each region will be held on Dec. 5 in at Bayern Munich where his uncle Uli is Romania’s Gazeta Sporturilor newspaper. the Western hub. Umm Salal held leaders Duhail to a 1-1 draw in a QNB Stars League match, where tempers flared at times. honorary president, will take charge of Hof- “It’s impossible for me to work in the fenheim, the Bundesliga club announced hostile environment that has been gener- HEARTS LOSE LEGAL FIGHT he QNB Stars League as a result of Al Duhail drop- Al Shahania, staring at relegation yesteday. Hoff enheim said the 38-year-old, ated in particular by the ‘Ultra’ group of AGAINST RELEGATION FROM returned to life after a ping points. Al Duhail are on as the basement side, did well in who is also the son of former Hertha Berlin fans”, he added. The club’s decision to SCOTTISH PREMIERSHIP Tfour-month break forced 43 points, but Al Rayyan closed beating Al Ahli to earn three cru- boss Dieter, has signed until June 2023. sign Lucescu sparked an uproar from fans Hearts’ relegation from the Scottish Pre- by the Coronavirus the gap with them as The Li- cial points. Sebastian Hoeness led Bayern’s reserves because of the Romanian’s 12-year spell in miership was confi rmed after an arbitration (Covid-19) pandemic. ons moved to 41 following their Al Shahania, under Nabil An- to an unexpected third division title this charge of bitter rivals Shakhtar Donetsk. panel upheld the Scottish Football Profes- The tournament, which was come-from-behind 2-1 victory war who was assistant to re- season. Hoeness succeeds Dutchman Alfred Lucescu won 22 trophies at Shakhtar be- sional League (SPFL) decision to settle the stopped on March 7, resumed in over Qatar SC, who stayed in cently-departed Spanish coach Schreuder, who was sacked in June after a tween 2004 and 2016. curtailed season on a points-per-game accordance with the precaution- ninth position with 17 points. Jose Murcia, are on 13 points, series of poor performances for the club Dynamo’s website said on July 23 that basis. The panel also ratifi ed the relegations ary measures as per the general Al Sadd stayed third and still in one point behind 11th-placed Al owned by billionaire Dietmar Hopp. Lucescu, who has been unemployed since of Partick Thistle and Stranraer, from the plan and protocol developed by contention for the title with a 2-1 Khor, while Al Ahli stayed eighth Under a six-man interim coaching staff , February 2019, had signed a two-year con- Championship and League One respective- the Qatar Stars League (QSL) in win over Al Khor, a repeat of the with 19 points. Hoff enheim won their last three games to tract with the option of extending it for one ly, and the promotions of Dundee United, co-operation with Ministry of result of their fi rst-leg match. Al Wakrah and Al Sailiya grab sixth place and a place in the Europa season. Over his 40-year career, Lucescu Raith Rovers and Cove Rangers. Public Health. The reigning champions now played out a goalless draw to re- League. Hoeness, who played three games has coached the Romanian and Turkish Hearts and Thistle took legal action after Despite the long break and have 35 points. main seventh and sixth respec- for Hoff enheim when the club was still national teams as well as clubs in Romania, being consigned to the drop as a result of unusual preparatory stages, the The defeat made Al Khor (14 tively with 20 and 24 points. in the third division, will begin working Italy, Turkey, Ukraine and Russia. the vote by clubs to end the season amid teams put up spirited fi ghts. points) slip to 11th, whereas In appreciation and gratitude with the squad when they start pre-season the coronavirus pandemic and a breakdown All positions in the standings Umm Salal, having 15 points, for the great eff orts of health- training on August 2. MALAYSIA TO HOST AFC CHAMPIONS in talks over league reconstruction.The remained the same but for Al helped themselves in the battle care workers and all those work- LEAGUE MATCHES IN EAST ASIA 2020/21 Scottish Premiership season will Khor and Umm Salal swapping to avoid relegation. ing on the frontlines combating FANS’ RAGE PUSHES LUCESCU TO Malaysia has been named the Asian Cham- start on Saturday, but the three leagues be- 10th and 11th spots after the lat- Al Gharafa remained fourth the menace and as a thank-you ABANDON DYNAMO KIEV POST pions League’s centralised hub in East Asia low the top fl ight are not due to return until ter held leaders Al Duhail to a 1-1 in the table and moved on to 31 message from the QSL and clubs, Romanian football coach Mircea Lucescu with matches in the region due to restart in October with a shorter 27-game season de- draw. points with a 1-0 verdict against a special logo was placed on all said said he was giving up on plans to coach October, the continent’s football govern- signed to reduce costs for Covid-19 testing Thus, the title race hotted up Al Arabi, who stood on 24 points. players’ jerseys. Dynamo Kiev less than a week after sign- ing body said. Asia’s elite club competition and the loss of matchday income. Gulf Times Tuesday, July 28, 2020 3 FOOTBALL

PREMIER LEAGUE LA LIGA Valencia name Gracia Klopp expects Liverpool as new coach AFP Madrid

alencia have appoint- ed former Watford to face tougher title fi ght Vand Malaga boss Javi Gracia as their new coach on a two-year deal, the La ‘I am very positive about my team but I cannot deny Manchester City are really good’ Liga club announced yesterday. The 50-year-old becomes Va- AFP lencia’s third full-time manager London since the start of the recently- Under manager Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool wrapped concluded La Liga season, af- up the Premier League title with a record seven ter the sackings of Marcelino in iverpool turned the Premier games remaining and finished the season 18 points September 2019 and Albert Ce- League title race into a proces- ahead of second-placed Manchester City. (AFP) lades last month. Lsion this season, but Jurgen “Valencia CF have reached Klopp expects his champions to an agreement with Javi Gracia, face a much tougher fi ght to retain the who has been appointed as fi rst trophy next term. Klopp’s side powered team coach as of Monday, on a to their fi rst English title for 30 years two-year deal through to June with a dominant campaign that left 30, 2022,” the club said in a brief their rivals trailing in their wake. statement. Liverpool wrapped up the silverware Gracia was dismissed by Wat- with a record seven games remaining ford, who were relegated from and fi nished the season 18 points ahead the English Premier League on of second-placed Manchester City. Sunday, last September after a The Reds’ remarkable run forced City poor start to the campaign, just to surrender the title they had won for four months after taking the the last two years, with Pep Guardiola’s Hornets to only the second FA team unable to muster the consistency Cup fi nal in their history, where required to keep pace. they lost 6-0 to Manchester With Liverpool having also won City. the Champions League in the 2018-19 His list of former teams also season and the Club World Cup in De- includes Russian outfi t Rubin cember, some pundits believe the An- Kazan and Spanish sides Malaga, fi eld club are primed for a golden era of Osasuna and Almeria. Valencia dominance. All the pieces are in place fi nished ninth in La Liga this for Liverpool to win consecutive titles season, missing out on quali- for the fi rst time since 1984, with Klopp fi cation for Europe, and were signed to a long-term contract and key knocked out of the Champions stars Virgil van Dijk, Sadio Mane, Mo- League in the last 16 by Italian hamed Salah and Jordan Henderson all club Atalanta. in their primes. Liverpool also have a cadre of emerging youngsters capable of bolstering Klopp’s squad next season. But the German insists Liverpool will take nothing for granted when the 2020-21 campaign kicks off because he expects a renewed push from City and stronger challenges from Manchester United and Chelsea. “Whatever people say, it will not be important for next season because for back the title. They set a 100-point Silva will leave this summer, but Phil FA Cup fi nalists Chelsea, who ended City, have improved dramatically since sure we both have to be ready,” Klopp Premier League record total in 2018 Foden’s development gives Guardiola a fourth, must improve a creaky defence the January signing of Portugal play- said. “We see United coming up. People that Liverpool were unable to match potential replacement. and a costly lack of killer instinct if they maker Bruno Fernandes from Sporting thought they had no chance but we see this season and pipped Klopp’s men to Klopp does not expect a drop-off are to close the 33-point gap to Liver- Lisbon. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer can also with one or two players how good they the title again in 2019. Guardiola’s side from City, who made a point about their pool. Frank Lampard’s emerging young deploy a lethal front three in Marcus are and how good they can be, and for could yet underline their enduring class ability to compete with Liverpool when side have potential however and the ad- Rashford, Anthony Martial and Mason sure they will not be worse next season, by ending the campaign as Champions they crushed them 4-0 in the Reds’ fi rst ditions of Timo Werner and Hakim Zi- Greenwood. and now there is Chelsea as well. It will League winners. City were undeniably game after clinching the title. “I am very yech should add potency to their attack. “That is why it is the best league in not be about City and us. For the last inconsistent this season, with defensive positive about my team but I cannot “Chelsea have incredible guys there the world. Anyone can beat you and two years pretty much the top of the ta- frailties exposed after failing to replace deny Manchester City are really good. in the squad and extra now with (new every season will be stronger,” Guardiola ble was City and us, and City for four or Vincent Kompany and losing Aymer- That was always the case, and I cannot signings) Hakim Ziyech and (Timo) said. “That is the reality of the Premier fi ve years before that.” ic Laporte to injury for long periods. see the end of anything for Manchester Werner,” Guardiola said. Third-placed League. We are going to think about City clearly have the pedigree to take Long-serving Spanish midfi elder David City,” he said. United, who fi nished 15 points behind what we need to do to improve the team.”

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS De Bruyne wants Champions Chelsea closing in on Leverkusen’s Havertz League win for Silva’s City send-off and step up search for new goalkeeper

AFP By Jacob Steinberg and Fabrizio Romano London The Guardian

evin De Bruyne is hop- helsea have stepped up their pur- ing to crown David suit of Kai Havertz after qualifying KSilva’s glorious 10 years Cfor the Champions League, opening at Manchester City by talks with Bayer Leverkusen over a completing the Spaniard’s set fee for the midfi elder. of medals with a Champions Havertz has told Leverkusen that he League win next month. wants to join Chelsea, who are also looking Silva has won four Premier for a new goalkeeper after Frank Lampard League titles among 11 major tro- dropped Kepa Arrizabalaga for his side’s win phies since joining City in 2010, over Wolves on Sunday, and all that remains as well as the World Cup and two now is for the two clubs to reach an agree- European Championships at in- ment over a price for the 21-year-old. ternational level with Spain. Leverkusen have previously asked for as The 34-year-old midfi elder Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne celebrates with David Silva (left) much as €90mn for a player regarded as has never tasted Champions after scoring against Norwich on Sunday. (Reuters) one of the most gifted talents in Europe but League glory but he has one last Chelsea, who have already strengthened chance with Pep Guardiola’s mier League,” said the Belgian month and De Bruyne is hoping their attack with the signings of Hakim Zi- men, with his contract ending at midfi elder. to carry that form onto the big- yech and Timo Werner, are hoping to spend the end of the season. “You can always debate who gest stage, with the prospect of €80mn on the Germany international after City resume their Champions is (number) one but when you having to beat Madrid, Juventus, including add-ons. League campaign at home to Real play with him you can appreci- Bayern Munich or Barcelona and Negotiations are expected to pick up this Kai Havertz has told Bayer Leverkusen he wants to join Chelsea. Madrid on August 7, holding a ate what he does day-in, day- then Paris Saint-German to fi - week, with Chelsea confi dent a deal will be 2-1 lead from the fi rst leg of their out. I have played with him for nally win the Champions League. struck after securing fourth place by beating Arsenal on a free. for £71.6mn two years. last-16 tie, with the winners pro- fi ve years — a long time. We “It is good to stay in the Wolves. Chelsea are the only club in the running While Valencia and Sevilla have shown an gressing to the quarter-fi nals, have won a lot together, we play rhythm. There is no point slack- Lampard, who had to deal with a transfer for Havertz, who has been off ered a ve-fi interest in the 25-year-old, it remains to be which will be held on a neutral well together. We complement ing. We have to keep going full ban after being appointed as manager last year deal, and they are also on the hunt for seen if they could aff ord him. Chelsea may site in Lisbon. each other really well in diff erent pace,” said De Bruyne. summer, is keen to revamp his attack. Chel- a replacement for Arrizabalaga. Lampard end up covering a portion of his wages if De Bruyne scored twice in ways. And he’s such a nice guy as “Now we have got two weeks sea are set to part company with Pedro Ro- does not trust the Spaniard and delivered a they loan him out. Silva’s fi nal Premier League game well. He is going to be a big miss. to prepare ourselves fully for the dríguez, who is joining Roma on a free trans- high-profi le snub after replacing him with Chelsea are also seeking a new left- as City thrashed Norwich 5-0 on It would be great if we could Champions League and we have fer, while Willian is another veteran whose Willy Caballero against Wolves. back and could move for Ben Chilwell after Sunday and labelled his midfi eld win the Champions League so it got another fi nal. We want to contract runs out at the end of the season. However it will not be easy for Chelsea, Leicester missed out on Champions League partner one of the best players to could end well for him.” prepare ourselves the best possi- While Lampard wants Willian to stay, the who have targeted Ajax’s Andre Onana and qualifi cation. If Chilwell proves too expen- ever grace the English game. “For City have scored four or more ble to be ready for that game and 31-year-old Brazilian winger’s hopes of a Atlético Madrid’s Jan Oblak, to shift Arriza- sive, however, Lampard could turn his at- me he is one of the best players goals in six of their 12 games since hopefully we can play another new three-year deal look slim and there is balaga after making him the world’s most tention to Ajax’s Nicolás Tagliafi co, who is who has ever played in the Pre- English football’s restart last four games this year.” an expectation that he could end up joining expensive goalkeeper when they bought him available for £22.4mn.

ROUND-UP Midfi elder Fernandes targets Europa League glory for Manchester United runo Fernandes is targeting United lead LASK 5-0 from the fi rst Europa League because this is a really parture from Tottenham after eight DIP IN ZAHA’S FORM DUE on their 80mn pounds ($102.78mn) Europa League glory after leg of their last-16 Europa League tie good trophy and we want to win,” he years at the Premier League club. The TO SPECULATION ABOUT valuation of the player. Bhelping lead Manchester and will face Istanbul Basaksehir or said. “I came to Manchester to win Belgium defender, whose contract was FUTURE: HODGSON The 27-year-old managed only United back to the Cham- Copenhagen in the quarter-fi nals as trophies. We need to play every game extended in June until the end of the Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodg- four goals in 38 games this season as pions League. The midfi elder scored part of a mini-tournament due to be to win. If we go into the Europa League current season, made more than 300 son has said Wilfried Zaha’s poor Palace, who lost seven of their last in United’s 2-0 win at Leicester on played in Germany from the quarter- and win every game, we know we’ll win appearances for Spurs after joining the form during the home stretch of the eight matches, fi nished 14th in the Sunday as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s fi nals onwards. Fernandes has scored the trophy.” club from Ajax in 2012. season was due to uncertainty about league after Sunday’s 1-1 draw against side sealed third spot in the Premier 10 goals since joining from Sporting Goalkeeper Michel Vorm is also his future. Zaha had appeared poised Tottenham Hotspur. “It (speculation) League, meaning they will return to Lisbon in January to inspire United’s JAN VERTONGHEN leaving at the end of his one-year con- to move on last summer, with both has obviously aff ected him because his Europe’s elite competition next season top-four return and now he wants CONFIRMS SPURS EXIT tract. Spurs players paid tribute to the Arsenal and Everton reportedly keen to form in the last few weeks has really after a year’s absence. silverware. “Now our focus is on the Jan Vertonghen announced his de- pair on social media. sign him, but Palace refused to budge been poor,” Hodgson told reporters. Gulf Times 4 Tuesday, July 28, 2020 SPORT

NBA NHL Kahkonen awaits next opportunity to In-shape, locked-in stop shots for Wild Embiid could make Sixers tough to beat ‘I know I’m capable of carrying the team, so it’s all about me being assertive’ Wild goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen. (TNS) By Keith Pompey The Philadelphia Inquirer By Sarah Mclellan serious option if the team feels Star Tribune it needs to make a change. “You just have to do your job on’t get it twisted. and hopefully you get to play,” The 76ers made the aapo Kahkonen was Kahkonen said last week on a Dright decision to move the go-to goaltender video conference call. “If not, Ben Simmons to point Kfor the Wild’s mi- then you got to keep yourself forward, where the 6-foot-10, nor league team this ready in case you end up being 250-pounder can make a great season, batting away enough in net at some point.” impact. Shake Milton, at point pucks to help Iowa to one of its Kahkonen’s strides in 2019- guard, also provides a much- best performances in franchise 20 didn’t just come at the AHL needed fl oor spacer for the Six- history and get recognised as level. A 2014 fourth-round ers. the American Hockey League’s pick, Kahkonen’s development Tobias Harris has also shown top goalie. and potential to be a future why he’s an on-the-fringe NBA But when he will get his next starter for the Wild was am- All-Star when his teammates opportunity to play is unclear. plifi ed by his 3-1-1 NHL debut get him involved. But don’t get “I’m not stressing about — a string that included the it twisted. anything,” Kahkonen said. “I’m 23-year-old setting the fran- The Sixers will only go as far as just trying to focus on getting chise record for most saves in a Joel Embiid leads them. back to the rhythm being on the game by a rookie (44). When healthy and in shape, ice every day.” Add in his accomplishments the three-time All-Star center is The Wild travelled to Ed- in the AHL, like a league-high the most dominant player in the monton on Sunday, embark- 25 wins and seven shutouts to game regardless of who’s on the ing on the Western Conference go along with the fourth-best court. And everyone knows it. hub city a week before it starts a goals-against average (2.07) “I know what I’m capable best-of-fi ve qualifying-round and save percentage (.927), and of, and I know what my team- series against Vancouver dur- the season was a memorable mates think of me,” Embiid said. ing the NHL’s postseason re- one for Kahkonen. “I know I’m capable of carrying turn without having identifi ed “It was a great year,” he said. the team, so it’s all about me be- its Game 1 starter. “For me individually … I was ing assertive. If I feel like I’m not “We’re still communicat- more familiar with everything.” getting the ball, I just got to talk ing and evaluating to make the When the AHL season was to them and do what I have to right decision,” coach Dean cancelled by the coronavi- do.” Evason said. rus pandemic, Kahkonen was That’s one of the knocks Although the call will likely sidelined with injury after he against the 7-foot-2, 280-plus- come down to Devan Dub- got twisted up in the crease in pounder, who hasn’t always Joel Embiid has been one of the league’s most dominant post-up players since he arrived. (TNS) nyk and Alex Stalock, where a March 2 game in San Jose. But been totally locked-in, especial- the organization’s goaltending he’s healed up now and used ly not this season. and just dominate. But I get what owner Michael Rubin during the orbital bone near his left eye and Game 7. But one has to wonder hierarchy starts, Kahkonen’s the downtime in his native Fin- He actually admitted as much they’re saying and I think they’re shutdown, training six days a suff ering a concussion against how they would have fared in credentials could make him a land to get back to full strength. on Dec. 12 after Charles Barkley right. I’ve got to make a change.” week. the New York Knicks on March last season’s playoff s with a fully and Shaquille O’Neal criticised He attempted to make those He only logged 12 minutes, 28, 2018. He donned a gray mask healthy Embiid. his level of play. changes while also battling 57 seconds — all in the fi rst with a protective lens after re- With him in improved shape, The critiques came after Em- through several injuries. half — during Friday’s 90-83 turning to play in that series the team is specifi cally focusing Irving launches fund to assist WNBA players biid had 22 points and 10 re- Embiid averaged 23.4 points, exhibition-game victory over and in the conference semifi nals on his ability to read double- rooklyn Nets guard medical considerations con- bounds two nights earlier in a 11.8 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.3 the Memphis Grizzlies at ESPN against the Boston Celtics. teams in the post. They think Kyrie Irving has nected to the coronavirus 97-92 victory over the Denver blocks while playing in just 44 of Wide World of Sports Complex. Last season, Embiid missed that will help the Sixers advance Bcommitted $1.5mn pandemic and cannot be Nuggets at the Wells Fargo Cent- the Sixers’ 65 games before the Embiid fi nished with 10 points Game 3 of the Sixers’ opening- deep in the playoff s. to support WNBA receiving a salary or financial er. The game was televised by NBA shutdown in March. His on 3-for-10 shooting — includ- round series against the Brook- This season, Embiid has players who decided to skip assistance from any company TNT, where both Hall of Famers 47.4% shooting from the fi eld ing going 2-for-4 on 3-pointers. lyn Nets because of tendinitis logged the fi fth-most post-ups the 2020 season for health, or organisation. are pregame and postgame ana- is his worst percentage in three He also had six rebounds, two in his left knee. The same injury at 429 and the second-most di- personal, professional or More than a dozen players lysts. seasons. However, his 3-point turnovers, and graded out in a also sidelined Embiid in 14 of rect points created from them safety-related reasons. chose to skip the season, Barkley, a Sixers legend, said percentage of 34.8% is his best plus-12. the Sixers’ fi nal 24 games of the (397). He’s been one of the The fund is being adminis- most citing health or advoca- Embiid’s performance didn’t in three seasons. Brown said he doesn’t plan to regular season. league’s most dominant post-up tered by the KAI Empower- cy for social justice reform as qualify as “great.” O’Neal said The Cameroonian has missed play Embiid, Ben Simmons, and Then he missed the shoota- players since he arrived. ment Initiative, which Irving the reason. The WNBA is play- that Embiid could be great, nine games with a torn radial Tobias Harris a lot during the round for Game 2 of the con- But due to a lack of spacing launched yesterday. The NBA ing a 22-game regular season but that he’s not playing hard collateral ligament in his right three scrimmages leading into ference semifi nals against the and his drawing crowds, Embiid veteran contributed all of the schedule exclusively at the enough. hand. He was sidelined fi ve their Aug. 1 seeding-game open- Toronto Raptors because of hasn’t experienced low-post money. WNBA players can IMG Academy in Bradenton, “I mean, that’s what they do. more games with a left-shoul- er against the Indiana Pacers. gastroenteritis. Embiid nearly dominance in each of the last apply for financial assistance Fla., amid the pandemic. Maybe they’re right,” Embiid der sprain. Embiid was out two The hope is that Embiid can missed Game 4 of that series due two postseasons. on the organisation’s website. Irving is not with the Nets as said in response to the criticism. games because of left knee sore- remain healthy heading into the to being sick. He didn’t sleep the Brown wants Embiid to shoot They have until August 11 to they prepare to resume the “I do think they’re right. I need ness, two for suspension, and playoff s, which begin on Aug. 17. night before the game and kept 10 free throws per game in the submit necessary paperwork NBA season in their own bub- to be more aggressive, just look one each for a right ankle/lip That’s something he hasn’t been throwing up. He needed intrave- postseason, and Embiid has been and will learn by Aug. 24 if ble at the ESPN Wide World of to impose myself, just look to laceration, left hip contusion, able to do in the previous two nous therapy at 6am the day of working on perfecting his fadea- they will receive any funds. Sports Complex near Orlando dominate. and upper respiratory illness. postseasons. the game. way jumper. To be eligible, players must as he recovers from shoulder “I think the whole season I However, he’s all healed fol- Two seasons ago, Embiid The Sixers eventually lost that He’s focused on making the have been on a roster before surgery. Injuries limited the haven’t done that and you can lowing the four-month NBA missed the fi rst two games of series thanks to Kawhi Leon- right play and dominating. If skipping the 2020 campaign, six-time All-Star to just 20 see the way it’s aff ected my ef- shutdown, and is in great shape, the Sixers’ Eastern-Conference ard’s 15-foot fadeaway jumper he does that, while remaining explain the reasons they games in his first season in fi ciency and my stats, so I guess according to coach Brett Brown. fi rst-round series against the at the buzzer to lift the Toronto healthy and locked-in, the Six- decided to opt out, have Brooklyn. Reuters I need to go back to having fun Embiid stayed with Sixers co- Miami Heat after fracturing the Raptors to a 92-90 victory in ers could be tough to beat.

SPOTLIGHT Heat’s Olynyk in relief bolsters bubble bullpen out of Saturday’s scrimmage. But comes next, either in today’s 2pm By Ira Winderman The Miami Heat’s Kelly Olynyk (right) Sun Sentine it showed that in a change-of-pace scrimmage fi nale against the Mem- moment, the Heat still have some- phis Grizzlies, or at Saturday’s sea- drives against the Washington thing unique to off er in these most son resumption against the Denver Wizards in the second quarter at the t is a comparison even more unique conditions amid the new Nuggets. AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami on apropos in these times, with coronavirus pandemic. “He has had one of the better January 22, 2020. (TNS) INBA benches boxed off from “I think we still have obviously camps,” Spoelstra said. “He’s in the court as part of the league’s Bam to work back into the mix. tremendous shape right now. He social distancing at Disney World. Then obviously when Jimmy is really worked at it in May and June. So when the power game of Mey- playing, it looks a little diff erent,” “Before we stopped play, he was ers Leonard wasn’t working in Sat- Olynyk said. “But just being a spark playing his best basketball of the urday’s scrimmage against the Utah and being able to space the fl oor season and he’s just continuing to Jazz, Erik Spoelstra went to the Mi- and get in triggers, kind of put us play good basketball right now. He’s ami Heat’s bullpen, summoning his in actions that we can be success- really confi dent and he gave us re- junk-ball pitcher. ful in.” ally good minutes.” By the time Kelly Olynyk’s pitch Because he is neither closer Saturday was a reminder of what count was up after 28:31 of relief, nor starter, Olynyk’s minutes well can accompany steady minutes, there were 27 points on 10-of- could vary as much any player on the Jazz having to adjust as much 16 shooting, including 3 of 7 on the roster. And yet, moments such to Olynyk as the Heat did to Rudy 3-pointers, as well as eight re- as Saturday’s off er a reminder of Gobert. bounds. While it didn’t add up to a how eff ective he can be in his un- “He’s been tremendous through- victory, it showcased the contrast orthodoxy, as he meticulously con- out training camp here, in Orlando,” in the Heat’s pivot rotation. torts his way through the paint or guard Tyler Hero said Olynyk. “We “Roles are always everchanging launches 3-pointers from places all know, as teammates, what KO basically,” Olynyk said. “Not only 7-footers typically don’t launch. can do. We’re grateful to have him with us, but for the whole league. “After All-Star break, I started on our team. He’s 7 foot and can For me, I’m just trying to come in playing really well and shoot- space the fl oor, and also can play this restart and help us win a cham- ing the ball well, just getting more inside. He’s great in the pick and pionship. Build toward that, what- in the groove and in the fl ow,” he roll. He can do everything.” ever that is. said. “Then, obviously, the season Including toss in an occasional “Obviously right now, I think my got suspended. But I just kept that changeup. role is being in a lot of action off the momentum going and just kept “I just came in here and we know bench and hopefully contributing working on my body, making sure what our goal is,” Olynyk said of in a positive manner.” I stayed in shape and making sure I the NBA’s basketball bubble that The opportunity came with Bam kept my skills up.” ultimately will crown a champion. Adebayo and Jimmy Butler held With no assurances of what “That’s my job, to help us get there.” Gulf Times Tuesday, July 28, 2020 5 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Report: Seahawks, Adams to delay contract talks Reuters Patriots’ McCourty ‘very nervous’ Los Angeles

ew Seattle Seahawks safety about upcoming NFL season NJamal Adams will wait for a contract here, that means you have to be trav- extension until after the Reuters New England Patriots’ Los Angeles elling and you come across however 2020 season, NFL Network many people.’” Jason McCourty. (TNS) reported yesterday. ew England Patriots cor- The league and its players associa- The Seahawks acquired the nerback Jason McCourty tion agreed in their revised collective All-Pro safety from the New trades involving first-round Nsaid he’s “nervous” about bargaining agreement on Friday that York Jets in exchange for picks in the past. Last season, the upcoming NFL season players will be barred from attending three draft picks: first- and they acquired defensive end amid the coronavirus pandemic. indoor nightclubs, bars or house par- third-round picks in 2021 and Jadeveon Clowney from the McCourty made the comments on ties with 15 or more people. They also a first-round pick in 2022. The Houston Texans prior to the Sunday night in a podcast he shares may not take part in indoor church Jets also sent the Seahawks a season, but contract talks with his twin brother, Pats’ safety services unless they are at 25% or less fourth-round pick in 2022. broke down in March due to Devin McCourty. capacity. Adams, 24, has salaries Clowney’s contract demands. “I’m not going to lie, for me as The NFL plans to hold its season of $825,000 in 2020 and He remains an unsigned a fellow player, I go on social me- per usual outside of a protective bub- $9.86mn in 2021 under the free agent. One of the major dia and it makes me very nervous to ble as the NBA, WNBA and MLS are terms of his rookie contract. variables in long-term deals think there will be a season,” Jason doing or in designated cities like the Adams helped pave his during the coronavirus pan- McCourty, 32, said on the “Double NHL. MLB, which is playing games path out of New York with demic is the salary cap. The Coverage” podcast. in their own ballparks, on Monday negative comments toward leaguewide spending limit “Because I’ve seen guys posting a postponed two games after an out- the team, most recently last is expected to be reduced video in a nightclub, and it’s just like, break among the Miami Marlins. week when he told the New dramatically on the heels of a ‘Yo, we’re attempting to play foot- “It only takes one person testing York Daily News that head 2020 season which, if it goes ball. That’s not going to be OK.’ You positive, you come into the building, coach Adam Gase wasn’t the on, is scheduled to be played see guys working out in one city on a and that thing will spread like wild- right leader for the Jets He with limited or no fans in Monday, working out in another city fi re,” McCourty said. also was critical of general attendance. ESPN projected a on a Tuesday, and another city the The fi rst wave of Patriots players manager Joe Douglas. The loss in revenue for the league next week, and it’s just like, ‘Dang, begin reporting Monday to team fa- Seahawks have made splashy in the billions. if they’re working out here, here and cilities for testing.

MLB FOCUS Cavendish ready to roll as cycling reboots Two games postponed aft er lockdown

AFP Madrid

he cycling season aft er virus woes, Ohtani resumes following the Tcoronavirus lockdown on Tuesday with a host of the sport’s big guns taking part in the opening stage of the Vuelta a Burgos. The 2020 edition of the stage race in Spain features shelled in Oakland a strong peloton, with riders preparing for a hectic run of ‘TODAY I JUST FELT LIKE I WAS THROWING THE BALL RATHER THAN PITCHING’ prestigious events, with the three Grand Tours to be held AFP in quick succession due to the Mark Cavendish of Britain. Los Angeles Covid-19 outbreak. The UCI World Tour ish region, local hero Alejan- resumes on Saturday with the dro Valverde will likely be in n outbreak of Covid-19 Strade Bianche. the mix up the fi nal stretch of rocked Major League Professional cycling ground a short, sharp ascent to the ABaseball on Monday, to a halt four months ago, with Mirador Del Castillo, which forcing the postpone- the last top-level race the Par- overlooks the town. ment of two games less than a is-Nice in March, which saw The race culminates Satur- week after the sport launched its the fi nal stage cancelled. day, by which time early-sea- season following a four-month In February, the UAE Tour son form man Nairo Quintana coronavirus delay. ended early due to an outbreak of Arkea will have been able Major League Baseball con- of Covid-19, with Colombian to judge his fi tness over two fi rmed in a statement that games Fernando Gaviria one of the mountain stages. between the Miami Marlins and fi rst athletes in the world to Mads Pedersen will be easily Baltimore Orioles in Florida, test positive for the virus. picked out in his world cham- and the Philadelphia Phillies and UAE Team Emirates sprinter pion rainbow jersey, while the New York Yankees in Pennsylva- Gaviria, who did not confi rm appearance of 20-year-old nia, had been scrapped. he had recovered until March Remco Evenepoel, a former The decision followed reports 26 and did not travel back to Belgium youth football inter- that 10 more members of the Colombia until April, will be national, is hotly anticipated. Marlins — eight players and two in action in Spain this week. Mikel Landa, one of cy- coaches — had tested positive for “It’s time to pick up where cling’s nearly men, is target- the coronavirus following Sun- we left off ,” he told his team’s ing victory for his new Bah- day’s game against the Phillies in website, saying he was happy rain McLaren team, which is Philadelphia. just to feel normal on a bike managed by Rod Ellingworth Four Marlins players — pitcher again. and where he is supported by Jose Urena, fi rst baseman Gar- Gaviria’s teammate Fabio Cavendish. rett Cooper, outfi elder Harold Aru said: “We are all eager to The 35-year-old British Ramirez and catcher Jorge Alfaro be able to pin a race number on sprinter has 30 Tour de France — had already tested positive for our backs again and be back in stage wins to his name, but Covid-19. the peloton.” says he is going to Burgos for Major League Baseball said in Ineos’ Giro d’Italia champi- Landa. a statement the games had been on Richard Carapaz and Vuelta “We are going there to sup- postponed in order to allow for a Burgos double defending port Mikel, he’s in incred- additional testing. champion Ivan Sosa will face ible form,” Cavendish said in a “The members of the Marlins’ stiff competition in Spain this press release. travelling party are self-quaran- week. But sports director Gorazd tining in place while awaiting the Gaviria will be bidding Stangelj said the Manxman outcome of those results,” the for the sprints while veteran would also get his moment in MLB statement said. speed king Mark Cavendish is the sun. The Yankees were due to use also back in the saddle after “We have tailored our strat- the same locker room at Phila- illness. egy to open up a GC opportu- delphia’s Citizens Bank Park that In the fi rst of fi ve stages nity for Mikel, and sprint wins the Marlins had used over the around the northern Span- for Mark,” he said. weekend. Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Shohei Ohtani pitches the ball against the Oakland Athletics during the first inning at Oakland Coliseum. Marlins chief executive Derek PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Jeter said postponing Monday’s game in Florida was the “correct way last Thursday four months while the pandemic raged, with Angels sensation failed to record of .286. Coyotes general manager quits decision.” after it had been due to open in some opting out of the 2020 an out in his 2020 pitching debut. Ohtani was the 2018 American “The health of our players and March. Games are taking place season altogether. Los Angeles Ohtani, who pitched for the fi rst League Rookie of the Year after ahead of trip into bubble staff has been and will continue without fans, while players are Dodgers pitcher David Price was time in 20 months, raised alarms batting .285 with 22 home runs, ohn Chayka stepped will be the 11th seed in the to be our primary focus as we subject to a range of strict health among those who elected to skip about his ability to play two po- 10 stolen bases and 61 runs batted down as president of Western Conference playoff s navigate through these unchart- and safety protocols designed to the season citing concerns over sitions this season by giving up in plus a 4-2 record in 10 pitching Jhockey operations for that begin Saturday in Ed- ed waters,” Jeter said. prevent outbreaks of Covid-19. safety protocols. three singles and walking three starts with a 3.31 earned-run av- the Arizona Coyotes monton, Canada. “Postponing tonight’s home Players are tested for the dis- Yesterday, Price said the Mar- batters in a 6-4 loss to the Oak- erage and 63 strikeouts. on Sunday, just as the team Arizona will face sixth-seed opener was the correct decision ease every 48 hours, while masks lins outbreak would be a test of land Athletics. Babe Ruth, a legend from a was set to travel into a Na- Nashville in a best-of-five to ensure we take a collective will be mandatory for all players MLB’s commitment to player “He just didn’t throw the ball century ago, was the only other tional Hockey League playoff play-in series starting next pause and try to properly grasp not on the fi eld of play. safety. “Now we REALLY get to very well,” Angels manager Joe player who managed 10 pitching bubble. Chayka became the Sunday for a berth in the last the totality of this situation.” Unlike other sports leagues, see if MLB is going to put play- Maddon said. “I can’t sit here appearances and 20 homers in an youngest general manager 16 of the Stanley Cup playoff s. Jeter said the Marlins had re- such as Major League Soccer and ers health fi rst,” Price wrote on and make excuses for him. I’m MLB season. in NHL history when he was The expanded NHL post- mained in Philadelphia to un- the NBA, which are restarting Twitter. not gonna do that. The fastball Mitch Keller also pitched fi ve hired at 26 in May 2016 and season was a result of the dergo further testing. their seasons with all the teams “Remember when Manfred wasn’t coming out, there was no solid innings, and manager Derek signed a long-term deal with coronavirus pandemic that Major League Baseball’s com- based at a single location, base- said players health was PARA- deception in his pitches.” Shelton engaged in American the club last November, only shut down the league March missioner Rob Manfred mean- ball has opted to leave clubs at MOUNT?! Part of the reason Ohtani said he felt ready to baseball’s fi rst socially distanced to exit on the verge of the 12 with more than three while was reportedly holding an their home ballparks, meaning I’m at home right now is because play and he needs to throw more argument with an umpire as the team’s first playoff berth since weeks remaining in the emergency meeting to discuss they must travel throughout the players health wasn’t being put pitches in a competitive atmos- Pittsburgh Pirates beat St. Louis 2012. “Chayka has chosen to regular season. Games will the outbreak. United States during the season. fi rst. phere. 5-1 on Sunday. quit on a strong and competi- be staged in Edmonton and That decision has been criti- “I just have to get that feel for In the third inning, Shelton tive team,” the Coyotes said Toronto with the finals set to PLAYER CONCERN cised as risky by health experts OHTANI SHELLED IN the game back,” Ohtani said. “To- donned his face mask and left the in a statement. “The club is start in September. Yesterday’s postponed games as swathes of the US are battling OAKLAND day I just felt like I was throwing dugout to argue with Jordan Bak- disappointed in his actions Assistant general manager came with Major League Baseball skyrocketing coronavirus cases. Meanwhile, Japanese two-way the ball rather than pitching.” er after the plate umpire threw and his timing.” Steve Sullivan was named less than a week into its abbrevi- Several star players had also player Shohei Ohtani would like Restricted to a designated hitter Pirates pitcher Derek Holland The Coyotes, who went 33-29 Chayka’s interim replace- ated 2020 season. expressed misgivings about at- to forget his return to the mound role last season, Ohtani belted 18 out of the game for arguing balls with eight overtime losses, ment. The season fi nally got under tempting to start the season Sunday after the Los Angeles home runs with a batting average and strikes. Gulf Times 6 Tuesday, July 28, 2020 SPORT

GOLF FOCUS Rodchenkov wants blanket Thompson snaps ban on Russia at Tokyo Games

DPA doping practices but its ath- Frankfurt letes were there as as neutrals. 7-year US PGA win The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) last year im- ll Russian athletes posed a new ban of four years should be banned on Russia as a nation and sus- Afrom next year’s To- pended the Russian anti-dop- kyo Olympics be- ing body RUSADA because it cause of the country’s doping said that data it received from issues, according to whistle- the Moscow lab was falsifi ed to drought at 3M Open blower Grigory Rodchenkov, cover up doping cases. the former head of Moscow’s The ruling athletics body anti-doping laboratory. World Athletics has mean- ‘I don’t know what to say. This is so exciting. I played such good golf today. I stayed Rodchenkov told the BBC while suspended Russia since in an interview published 2015 and has now also stopped within myself. I played within myself. This means so much to me’ yesterday that those in the its neutral athletes lab who masterminded wide- process because Russia has ranging doping practices in not paid a fi rst instalment of a the country and at the Sochi 10-million dollar fi ne imposed 2014 Games were also behind after Russian athletics offi cials falsifying lab data at a later forged documents in a doping stage. rules related case around high “It should be an absolute jumper Danil Lysenko. blanket ban without any ex- Rodchenkov said World cuses or admissions of ath- Athletics was set “to suspend letes,” Rodchenkov said. or disqualify Russian athletics “The same personnel who forever. were smuggling and swapping It’s very right, because peo- samples during Sochi, they ple in Russian athletics - if were falsifying all documen- they are not absolutely guilty, tation. It was a progression in they are complicit.” falsifying, day by day, of this Russia has dismissed all al- data - an incredible fraud of legations of state-sponsored unspeakable proportion. It doping practices and has shows the country learns ab- launched an appeal against the solutely nothing,” Rodchenkov WADA sanctions at the Court said. of Arbitration for Sport. Russia was not allowed Rodchenkov fl ed the coun- to compete as a nation at try in 2015 and lives at an un- the 2018 Winter Games in disclosed location in the Unit- Pyeongchang because of the ed States.

Original drawing of Olympic rings sells for 185,000 euros An original drawing of Coubertin created the in- the Olympic rings by the terlocking rings, which are founder of the modern coloured blue, yellow, black, Games, Pierre de Coubertin, green and red on a white has fetched 185,000 euros field, in 1913. They off icially ($216,302) at auction in debuted at the 1920 Olym- Cannes, the auction house pic Games in Antwerp. said. “The drawing was The Olympic Manifesto, sold to a Brazilian collec- which was written by tor for a price of 185,000 Coubertin in 1892 and led to euros plus 27% costs, or the revival of the Olympic 234,950 euros,” Alexandre Games, sold for over$8 Debussy, associate director million at an auction in New of Cannes Encheres, told York City in December last French media. year. (Reuetrs)

ANNOUNCEMENT Michael Thompson of the United States poses with the trophy after winning the 3M Open at TPC Twin Cities in Blaine, Minnesota. (Getty Images/AFP)

AFP LEADING SCORES AFTER FINAL ROUND Washington Alfred Dunhill Links (par 71; USA unless stated) 66, Max Homa 65-72-64-67, Ryan Moore 65-70-67-68, Nick 67-65, Aaron Baddeley (AUS) Cameron Tringale 69-70-63-66, Watney 65-69-68-68 66-73-69-64 merican Michael 265-Michael Thompson 64-66- Tony Finau 65-66-69-68, Charl 271-Dylan Frittelli (RSA) 68-67- 273-Brice Garnett 70-67-68-68, Championship Thompson snapped a 68-67 Schwartzel (RSA) 66-68-66-68, 70-66, Doug Ghim 70-68-67-66, Danny Lee (NZL) 67-68-69-69, Aseven-year US PGA ti- 267-Adam Long 68-72-63-64 Richy Werenski 63-67-68-70 Sepp Straka (AUT) 70-67-71-63, Bernd Wiesberger (AUT) 73-66- tle drought on Sunday, 268-Robby Shelton 68-68-68-64, 270-Bo Hoag 65-73-69-63, Mat- Talor Gooch 66-65-72-68, Harris 66-68, Hank Lebioda 69-70- cancelled making birdies on two of the last Emiliano Grillo (ARG) 71-68-64- thew Wolff 65-68-70-67, Zhang English 70-65-67-69 65-69, Michael Gilgic (CAN) three holes to win the 3M Open 65, Charles Howell 71-65-67-65, Xinjun (CHN) 65-67-71-67, Cam- 272-Pat Perez 70-69-66-67, 72-68-68-65, Chase Koepka Reuters with 168 professionals and 168 by two strokes. Alex Noren (SWE) 67-69-66- eron Davis (AUS) 67-66-69-68, Henik Norlander (SWE) 70-70- 70-68-72-63 London amateurs, makes it very diffi - Thompson, the 2012 US Open cult to stage safely within the runner-up, rolled an impressive current guidelines given the bunker shot within three feet on 19-under 265 to defeat com- Thompson said. inside 15 feet and sank the putt here, I knew I would have to keep his year’s Alfred Dun- uncertainties we are all fac- of the cup at the par-4 16th and patriot Adam Long by two shots “To know I have security for for the victory. making birdies.” hill Links Champion- ing,” a spokesperson for the holed a 15-foot birdie putt at the after 72 holes at TPC Twin Cities two more years, to get in all those Long, who made the cut on Long, ranked 110th, won his Tship has been can- tournament committee said. par-5 18th to secure his fi rst tour in Blaine, Minnesota. tournaments, it’s just so excit- the number, went 63-64 on the only PGA title in January 2019 at celled due to Covid-19 The tournament is now set triumph since the 2013 Honda World number 218 Thompson, ing.” weekend, with his career-best the Desert Classic as a rookie. He pandemic, the European Tour to be played from September Classic. who said his family could not be Level with Long at the tee 16 birdies in the last two rounds shared second last November at announced yesterday. 30-October 3 in 2021. “I don’t know what to say. with him to celebrate due to the on the reachable par-4 16th, giving him a share of the lead the Mayakoba Classic. The event due to be held The European Tour returned This is so exciting,” Thompson coronavirus pandemic, last won Thompson smacked his tee with Thompson in the club- A third-place pack on 268 in- from October 1-4 across the to action this month with said, his voice cracking with 166 starts ago. shot into a greenside bunker, house. cluded 2011 Masters champion Old Course at St Andrews, back-to-back events in Aus- emotion as he fought back tears. His breakthrough booked the then blasted out of the sand “Ball-striking was a lot clean- Charl Schwartzel of South Afri- the Championship Course at tria, while the British Masters “I played such good golf today. 35-year-old into next week’s to inside three feet and made er,” Long said of his weekend. “I ca, Sweden’s Alex Noren, Argen- Carnoustie and Kingsbarns, last week was the fi rst of six I stayed within myself. I played WGC Memphis event, next his birdie putt to seize the lead had more birdie opportunities. I tina’s Emiliano Grillo and Amer- and would have been celebrat- tournaments as part of the ‘UK within myself. This means so month’s PGA Championship, alone. just tried to keep the pedal down icans Robby Shelton, Charles ing its 20th anniversary. “The Swing’. All tournaments are much to me.” the US Open in September and After missing a 15-foot birdie and make as many birdies as I Howell, Max Homa, Cameron size and complexity of the Al- played without spectators amid Thompson fi red a four-under the Masters in November. putt on the par-3 17th, Thomp- could. Tringale, Tony Finau and Richy fred Dunhill Links Champion- strict protocols to combat the par 67 in the fi nal round to fi nish “It has been a long time,” son dropped his third shot just “The way scoring is around Werenski. ship, played over three courses threat of the novel coronavirus.

ATHLETICS Cheruiyot ready to hunt for glory on the track again

Reuters and killed hundreds of thou- There are fi ve such race Nairobi sands of people around the events which are uncertain to world, led to the shutting down take place due to the coronavi- or postponement of sporting rus crisis, the coach said, add- enya’s Timothy events, including the Tokyo ing that athletes were trying to Cheruiyot, the 1,500 Olympic Games, to curb its adapt. Kmetres world champi- spread. “The year 2020 is more of on, is hoping to return It also disrupted Cheruiyot’s survival,” he added. to competitive running next 2020 plans, which included Yet there is a silver lining in month after a hiatus caused by preparing for the Olympics in all the gloom: injured athletes the coronavirus crisis. Tokyo. have time to be nursed back to Cheruiyot, a three-time He and his team mates were health without the pressure of Diamond League winner, has forced to interrupt their camp worrying that they are missing targeted the Aug. 14 Monaco at Rongai Athletics Club, lo- out. Cheruiyot, who had been race of the same series as his cated on the outskirts of Nai- nursing an unspecifi ed injury return date. He plans to run in robi, for three months. They in February, said the pause has at least three more races before have just resumed training, allowed him to recuperate and the end of the year. said Bernard Ouma, Cherui- get fi t. He is yearning to get “My focus is to be there, to yot’s coach. back into action. compete to run at least my per- “We are... trying to see if any “I miss racing, always con- sonal best,” he told Reuters. of the provisionally provided necting with friends abroad, The coronavirus outbreak, Diamond League races will running together, having fun which has infected millions take place,” Ouma said. outside,” he said. Gulf Times Tuesday, July 28, 2020 7 SPORT

FOCUS Qatar SportsTech offi cially launches new pre-accelerator programme EntelaQ

By Sports Reporter events including Hackathons, Doha the region’s top digital event, QITCOM, and local conferences including GES, GIS, and many atar SportsTech (QST), others. Entrepreneurs will be a leading startup ac- scouted by QST throughout vari- Qcelerator and hub for ous industry events and the ones innovative sportstech with the best ideas or prototype companies in Qatar, has an- will be recruited to join EntelaQ. nounced the launch of its new On the Selection Day, all en- pre-accelerator programme, trepreneurs will be invited to EntelaQ. EntelaQ will prepare pitch their idea in front of QST entrepreneurs, or teams resid- and its partners in order to be ing in Qatar for QST’s upcoming selected amongst the top 10 fourth cohort of its highly antic- Sheikh Ahmad Faleh al-Thani, Incubation Adviser at Qatar Develop- winning teams or entrepreneurs ipated Accelerator program. ment Bank. who will join the fi rst cohort of EntelaQ, Arabic for launch, is the programme. QST’s newest programme and and the programme is set to start expertise to help promote en- In 2019, Qatar SportsTech is aimed at local entrepreneurs, on November 15. trepreneurs’ skills and support won the ‘Most Innovative Com- nationals or residents, with an Commenting on the launch of their development.” pany’ award at the QFC’s 2019 innovative sportstech idea or EntelaQ, Ibrahim Abdulaziz al- Heba Almasri, Managing Di- Selected entrepreneurs will be able to participate in local events including Hackathons. Qatar Business Awards cer- prototype which fi ts QST’s fo- Mannai, Executive Director of rector at QST, commented, “We emony, which recognised QST’s cus on innovations that support Advisory & Incubation at Qatar are pleased to announce the an investor community. We look individually, develop their skills The 12-week part-time pro- commitment to innovation and the athlete, the team, fans and Development Bank (QDB), QST’s launch of our new pre-acceler- forward to engaging with other and to recognise business op- gramme will run for two days a the future of the SportsTech in- viewers, mega sports events and founding partner, said, “We en- ator programme, and are looking local entities as we transform the portunities, kick-start their week and will engage entrepre- dustry in Qatar and beyond. eSports. courage all sportstech entrepre- forward to working with bud- sports industry.” ideas from concept to launch, neurs in guest lectures and spe- Qatar SportsTech is initi- EntelaQ launches virtually to- neurs with great ideas or proto- ding entrepreneurs to prepare Sheikh Ahmad Faleh al-Tha- and implement their businesses cialised workshops, providing ated by QDB, powered by Star- day, and the recruitment process types to leverage the myriad of them for our upcoming cohort ni, Incubation Adviser at Qatar in the local market. Participat- one-on-one coaching sessions tupbootcamp, and supported for the programme will remain opportunities available to them of the Accelerator program. This Development Bank, at a video ing entrepreneurs will also have with QST’s programme managers by the Supreme Committee for open until the end of October. with QST, and benefi t from its initiative is part of our ongo- conference yesterday, said, the opportunity to meet poten- and specialists, as well as keynotes Delivery & Legacy, beIN Media On October 30, the much- extensive learning and develop- ing eff orts to develop the local “EntelaQ aims to develop and tial co-founders and other like- and inspirational talks by leading Group, Aspire Zone Foundation, awaited Selection Day will be ment programme. QDB is work- entrepreneurial ecosystem by accelerate the entrepreneur- minded individuals, and get ac- local and international mentors. Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), held to select the top 10 startups ing diligently to bring the best developing the start-up, on- ship journey and to help entre- cess to QST’s strategic partners, Selected entrepreneurs will and the Ministry of Commerce & from the shortlisted applicants local, regional, and international boarding mentors, and creating preneurs, whether in teams or mentors, and investors.” be able to participate in local Industry.

TENNIS MOTORSPORT We did 1,200km every weekend: ‘Apprehensive’ Quartararo’s long road to victory

AFP trips, Quartararo is already the Jerez de la Frontera, Spain fi rst French rider to win multi- Murray ‘mentally’ ple MotoGP races. He has done it on a Yamaha abio Quartararo re- satellite bike but in 2021 he vealed Sunday the will ascend to the factory team Fchallenges he had to replacing 41-year-old Rossi, overcome, including who was third on Sunday. regular 1,200km road trips, “To be on the podium with which have put him on the Valentino is fantastic,” said planning for US Open path to a potential world Mo- Quartararo who still owns a toGP title. photo of him and the great The 21-year-old Frenchman Italian taken when he was a claimed his second successive child. Sunday’s victory was ‘I’M PLANNING TO TRY AND BE THERE IN SHAPE FOR THE US OPEN’ win in the coronavirus-de- also a triumph of will and layed championship at the An- stamina with air temperatures dalucia Grand Prix, backing up at 36 degrees and the track at a his Spanish GP triumph on the melting 59. same Jerez track last weekend. “Halfway through I looked As he warmly embraced his at how many laps were left and “idol”, and seven-time elite when I saw it was still 12, I said class champion Valentino Ros- ‘wow, that’s too long’,” said si on the podium, Quartararo Quartararo who eventually recalled his tough route to the came home 4.5 seconds ahead pinnacle of the sport. of Maverick Vinales, his 2021 “It was not easy. When I was teammate. seven years old we used to take “My hands were so hot.” a van with my father to go to Sunday’s win gives the Spain and we did more than French rider a 10-point lead in 1,200 kilometres every week- the championship over Vinales end for training, for races,” he while defending champion explained. Marc Marquez sat out the race “You can imagine how hard after undergoing surgery on it was and I never stopped a broken arm. In a truncated travelling between the ages of season, Quartararo knows he seven and 15. already has the advantage. “In France, there were three “Marc will come back for or four riders who were fi ght- Brno (the next race), Maverick ing for the championship but is very strong, Vale (Rossi) is when I arrived in Catalonia, back on the podium. there were 15... and they were “The championship is very going faster than me.” short so if it’s possible to have Six years on from those ex- as few rivals as possible, it’s hausting cross-border road good for us.”

Andy Murray says he is concerned about travelling to New York for the US Open but is currently planning to play.

AFP Grant knocked out of Swedish tennis tournament for seniors including world number one London Novak Djokovic, who earlier this British film star Hugh Grant was daily ahead of the match that south-western Sweden – classic month said he was undecided knocked out yesterday at the he had not played competitively ground for Swedish clay tennis. over whether to travel for the ndy Murray is “men- Swedish Open tennis champi- since November after sustaining The number of spectators was tournament. tally” planning for next onships for seniors, losing in a blood clot in an eye but was limited due to coronavirus re- “Hopefully it can go ahead Amonth’s US Open but straight sets to the top-seed. feeling good. strictions. Grant and his Swedish but, if not, I’m also OK with admits he is apprehen- Grant, 59, who easily won his Grant, who starred in films like wife, Anna Grant, 40, are known that,” Murray said in comments sive about the return of tennis opening match on Sunday, Four Weddings and a Funeral for their keen interest in tennis. reported by the Guardian. “It’s following the coronavirus shut- picked up just one game yester- and Notting Hill, turns 60 on Sep- They have in recent years spent not like I’m saying it must go down. day losing 6-0, 6-1 to Per-Anders tember 9, making him eligible parts of their holiday in the ahead. We need to try to get back The former world number Lindeborg, the top-seed, the to play in the 60+ class at the resort of Torekov, near Bastad, to competing when it’s safe to do one is taking part in the Battle Kvallsposten daily reported. Swedish open. where they own a summer so. of the Brits Team Tennis event Lindeborg told the Sydostran The match was played at Bastad, house. (DPA) “Some sports have gone back, in London this week and remains and seem to have done pretty focused on the showpiece hard- well – football, for example. The court event in New York, sched- know, we were pretty sceptical hab would all be a bit diff erent. en’s tennis has been suspended issue for us is the travel.” uled to start on August 31. about it but mentally at some So yeah, mentally I’m planning since March. Tennis chiefs last Murray, still working his way The British player told the stage you need to start preparing for it to go ahead.” week cancelled a tournament in back from injury, suggested he Metro he was expecting the US and planning for that.” The three-time Grand Slam Washington DC due to mark the would probably try to com- Open, which he won in 2012, to “I’m planning to try and be champion said he was still “ap- resumption of the men’s tennis pete at the ATP Western and go ahead. there in shape for the US Open,” prehensive” but hopes tennis season over “continued uncer- Southern Open, which has been “We have to try and prepare he added. can follow other sports back into tainties”. switched to Flushing Meadows, Petronas Yamaha SRT’s French rider Fabio Quartararo celebrates that way,” he said. “We were say- “If it wasn’t happening my action after the long lay-off . Several leading fi gures have as a warm-up event ahead of the after winning the MotoGP race during the Andalucia Grand Prix ing four or fi ve weeks ago, you schedule for practising, my re- Top-level men’s and wom- cast doubts over the US Open, US Open. at the Jerez race track in Jerez de la Frontera. (AFP)

Tuesday, July 28, 2020 GULF TIMES CRICKET

FOCUS Wickets, runs and socially distanced fans — cricket in Surrey played rivals Middlesex in a friendly county game at the coronavirus era the Oval in London AFP way we are seated in the ground. London, United Kingdom “I hope this is the start — not a one-off .” Gregory Mumford joked it urrey cricketers Mark was great for once the crowd at Stoneman and Ryan a friendly match “outnumbered SPatel on Sunday expe- the Surrey pigeons”. rienced something no Mumford had brought his wife other sportsmen in England have with him although he said she enjoyed since March when they had been initially reluctant. strode to the wicket at The Oval “I think it got to the point — applause from a crowd desper- when we started to visit family ate to witness live action in the there was a natural progression fl esh after the coronavirus lock- to do diff erent things. down. “Coming here it is nice to come The Premier League football back to familiar territory. season has been played out in “It provides reassurance more empty stadia — cardboard cut- than anything.” outs of fans at some grounds Mumford acknowledges that proving no substitute for noise unlike him and his wife, who and atmosphere. live close to the south London Frankie Dettori and wonder ground, some might think twice mare Enable were applauded into about coming if they had to travel the winners enclosure at Ascot by public transport. after a historic third victory in However, he believes attending the King George VI and Queen the cricket can do wonders for Elizabeth Stakes on Saturday by the state of mind. 30 people. “There’s been a lot of talk However, they were on-course about mindfulness during lock- staff , trainers and owners. down,” he said. “A good day at Stoneman and Patel had 1,000 the cricket ticks a lot of boxes. members — mostly from Surrey “You are in the open air with a but some from rivals Middlesex crowd with whom you can com- — to cheer them on a day that municate if you wish or be in your even the unpredictable British own thoughts. weather did not wish to ruin with “There can be a lot of positives the sun making welcome if spo- coming here.” radic appearances. Cafe owner Gail Hadley has The spectators sat in alternate been coming to see Surrey for rows due to social distancing “donkey’s years” and said she rules. was very impressed with the way Those who came as a group or a Surrey had dealt with the social couple could sit beside each oth- distancing. er in the 1845 Stand named after Spectators watch a friendly county cricket match between Surrey and Middlesex at the Oval in London on Sunday. (AFP) “I think the way they’ve done the year the club was founded. it, it’s really well done,” she told Richard Gould, the long- “Primarily how you allocate place people in seats. Wright it was one he doubted he “We’re back and it feels like afi eld to watch his beloved Sur- AFP. serving Surrey chief executive, seats,” he said. “We looked at a variety of would see. you have never been away.” rey. That’s music to Gould’s ears told AFP lessons had already “Normally with online ticket- models regarding socially dis- “Probably six or eight weeks “I would be there like a shot,” who acknowledges hosting such been learned from Sunday’s pi- ing systems you fi ll your boots in tanced seating and that has been ago I thought, no probably won’t ‘PROVIDES REASSURANCE’ said Wright, who attended Sun- a pilot scheme is no bad thing for lot scheme — others follow at the terms of selling seats but this is a a challenge.” get to see anything,” he told AFP. Wright, who fell under cricket’s day’s game with three friends. the profi le of the club. world snooker championships on diff erent scenario. The members may have been “But now I’m fi rmly of the spell watching it on TV with his “This feels perfectly safe. Eve- “Always good for the profi le,” Friday and Glorious Goodwood “You don’t really want to be there for a day’s live cricket but view that this is perfectly possi- father back in the 1970s, says he ryone wearing masks (when in- he said smiling. “We like to show racing festival next Saturday. a trained epidemiologist just to for long-time member David ble. It’s a nice moment. would be fi ne travelling farther doors) and one-way systems, the off sometimes, everyone does.”

SPOTLIGHT SELECTION One-day Super League Willey and Topley get England launched to determine recalls for Ireland ODIs AFP World Cup spots Manchester, United Kingdom eft-arm pacemen David AFP He said that while some coun- members on that to try and un- Willey and Reece Topley New Delhi, India tries were already restarting derstand their re-scheduling of Lwere recalled to the Eng- cricket, others were waiting for the series that are being post- land one-day interna- government clearance. poned so that we complete the tional squad announced yester- new Super League to series in the Test championship,” day for the three-match series determine qualifi ca- COSTS HIT FOR SIX Allardice said. against Ireland. Ation for the 50-over Allardice highlighted cost-cut- Cricket came to a grinding halt The pair were included in a World Cup will launch ting measures such as allowing in March just as England were 14-strong group for three games this week but the governing body just home umpires for interna- about to start a world champion- at Hampshire’s Ageas Bowl warned yesterday that the cost tionals but added the ICC has no ship series in Sri Lanka. headquarters. of staging international cricket plan to make special payments to Since then, a Bangladesh tour of Willey, 30, missed out on will inevitably rise because of the national boards on top of what Sri Lanka and South Africa’s visit England’s triumphant World coronavirus pandemic. has already been promised. to the West Indies have also been Cup campaign last year after a World champions England and “The decision last week to lost. A New Zealand tour of Bang- change in qualifi cation rules saw Ireland will hold the fi rst match move the World Cup back to ladesh due to start in August has him make way for Barbados- in the 13-nation league in South- late 2023 gives us more time to also been postponed. All were to born fast bowler Jofra Archer. ampton on Thursday. schedule any games lost due to be part of the Test championship. Topley, 26, last played inter- The seven top-placed nations Covid-19 and preserve the integ- West Indies are now coming to national cricket in 2016 but has in the Super League will join rity of the qualifi cation process, the end of a series in England and since suff ered several back in- hosts India in getting automatic meaning it will be decided on the with the Indian Premier League juries. places for the 2023 World Cup. fi eld of play, which is important,” scheduled to start in mid-Sep- The England group contains The International Cricket he said in an ICC release. tember time is running out to re- eight players who were mem- Council’s 12 full members and the Under the previous qualifying schedule Tests. bers of the World Cup squad, Netherlands will take part with system, the top eight teams in the with captain Eoin Morgan each side playing four home and ICC rankings were joined by the FATE OF WORLD TEST joined by experienced white- four away three-match series. top two sides from a qualifying CHAMPIONSHIP ball campaigners Moeen Ali, Covid-19 has brought havoc to tournament to make up the 10- The fate of the inaugural World Jonny Bairstow, Jason Roy and the cricket calendar, with the 50- team event held in England last Test Championship (WTC) will Adil Rashid. over and T20 World Cups pushed year. depend on the ability of coun- Kent batsman Joe Denly, who back. The start of the Super The later qualifying tournament tries to reschedule the series was dropped from the Test side League was also delayed because will feature fi ve of the 13 sides that that have been postponed due to after the series opener against of the pandemic. fail to get through directly against the Covid-19 pandemic, the ICC the West Indies, has now joined ICC general manager Geoff Al- fi ve associate nations. said. the England one-day “bubble”. lardice said it was working with The start of the Super League “We are currently in discus- The Ireland series will be national boards to fi nd dates for comes nearly a year after the ICC sion with members in what their played under similar bio-secure In this May 16, 2019, picture, England’s David Willey (left) and Jofra Archer play football during a training the Super League to be “safely and launched a world Test champi- plans are around rescheduling regulations, with all the match- session at Trent Bridge in Nottingham, United Kingdom. (Reuters) practically rescheduled” even as onship between the nine top- their queue,” Allardice said. es taking place behind closed “costs will go up” as international ranked teams. “Obviously there are teams doors. follow the ongoing West Indies James Taylor. “Even though a ENGLAND SQUAD: Eoin Mor- cricket returns to action. Allardice said that “at this which have rescheduled them as The second and third match- series. number of Test players are una- gan (capt), Moeen Ali, Jonny “The precautions that need stage” the ICC wants to keep the quickly as possible and depend- es take place on August 1 and 4, That means Test skipper Joe vailable, there is great competi- Bairstow (wkt), Tom Banton, to be taken to ensure the safety world championship on course ing on how many of them could also in Southampton. Root and fellow World Cup- tion for places. Sam Billings (wkt), Tom Curran, of the players and other partici- for a fi nal Lord’s in London in June be rescheduled within the avail- England’s red and white-ball winners Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Thursday’s opening ODI will Liam Dawson, Joe Denly, Saqib pants in the matches are going to next year. But the competing na- able time window, that will give fi xtures are overlapping in a sea- Chris Woakes and Archer will be the fi rst match of the ICC’s Mahmood, Adil Rashid, Jason add an extra layer of cost to the tions risk a fi xture pileup because us a better view on the most ap- son cut short by the coronavirus not feature against Ireland. new World Cup Super League, Roy, Reece Topley, James Vince, staging of the games,” Allardice of the pandemic which has led to propriate timing for the fi nal.” outbreak and they are maintain- “We are developing excellent which will determine qualifi ca- David Willey. Reserves: Richard told a small group of journalists multiple postponements. Currently, the fi nal is sched- ing two separate squads, with a strength in depth in white-ball tion for the 50-over World Cup Gleeson, Lewis Gregory, Liam in a video call. “We are working with the uled for June 2021. Test series against Pakistan to cricket,” said England selector in 2023. Livingstone