Systems in Place for Asian Athletics Championships ‘We Need to Have a Very High Standard of Organisation

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FOCUS All systems in place for Asian Athletics Championships ‘We need to have a very high standard of organisation... to set up a format and scale for the future organisers to match’

By Mikhil Bhat Doha

ith the Asian Athlet- ics Championships just around the corner, Asian Athletics WAssociation president and local organising committee chairman Dahlan al-Hamad said the focus is on setting the benchmark for future organisers and ensuring that all systems are in place for a successful World Champion- ships later in the year. The 23rd edition of the Asian event will be held April 21-24 at the state-of-the-art Khalifa In- ternational Stadium, and also serves as a test event for the IAAF Athletics World Championships Doha 2019, which is set to be held in September at the same venue. Over four days, more than 700 elite athletes from across Asia will vie for 186 medals in 21 events for men and women each, with a mixed relay event that will makes its debut at the championships. “The main focus is that this is a test event for the World Cham- (From left) Asian Athletics Championships Doha 2019 Planning and Operation Committee director Eman al-Emadi, vice-president and director general Fahad Ebrahim Jumaa, Asian Athletics Association president and pionships, and we need to have Local Organising Committee chairman Dahlan al-Hamad, Venues Committee director Salah al-Saadi, and Marketing and Communication committee head Sheikh Hamad bin Abdulaziz al-Thani address a press a very high standard of organi- conference at the Qatar Olympic Committee headquarters yesterday. PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil sation, to present it to the IAAF in a good way and also to set up Al-Hamad, who is also the future to include the road races”. sessment and requirement.” age the kids to take up a sport and medals and a bronze, in the 22nd For Barshim, the champion- a format and scale for the future IAAF vice-president, cited Qa- The four-day tournament The organisers are looking for- set a goal for the future. If the edition of the Asian Athletics ships will serve as a comeback organisers to match,” al-Hamad tar’s long history of successfully takes place at Khalifa Interna- ward to hosting a large number kids interact with their heroes Championships in Bhubaneswar, event, having been out of action said at a press conference at the organising many international tional Stadium where innovative of fans at the the venue, which is and champions in schools, and India, this time round, the squad since he suff ered an ankle in- Qatar Olympic Committee head- sporting events and was con- and environment-friendly cool- also a Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup also watch the competition, it will be looking to excel in front of jury while attempting for a world quarters yesterday. fi dent of using that “expertise ing technology has been success- stadium. will inspire them for the future.” home fans. record height in Hungary in July The press conference was also to host an ideal and exceptional fully operating, ensuring optimal “We have a large Asian popu- Team Qatar will be represented “Qatari team will have good last year. attended by Championships tournament that will be remem- conditions for athletes and fans lation in Qatar. Even if a fraction by 29 athletes, including World results. But we must also remem- “Barshim, Alhamdullilah, he vice-president and director gen- bered by Asian athletes and fans”. alike. of those people turn up to watch Champion high jumper Mutaz ber that this is a crucial year be- has recovered. He is on the track eral Fahad Ebrahim Jumaa, Ven- One of the novelties at the Given the eff ects of breeze and the championships, we will have Barshim, 400m hurdles Asian cause this is the year of the World now, and we have included him in ues Committee director Salah IAAF Worlds is going to be the wind on performances of track a full house,” al-Hamad said. Games gold medallist Abder- Championships. You cannot un- the list,” al-Hamad said. “But we al-Saadi, Planning and Opera- night marathon around a circuit and fi eld athletes, al-Saadi said, “We are doing everything from rahman Samba, and 400m 2017 derestimate any nation in Asia, want to get the fi nal ok from his tion Committee director Eman planned on the Doha Corniche. “The technical delegates will be contacting the embassies to get- World Championships bronze because everyone is looking to coach. It is most important for al-Emadi and Marketing and However, the Asian champi- advising us of their requirements ting in touch with the schools. medallist and Asian Games gold prepare their athletes. But Insha him to be fi t, compete here, in the Communication committee head onships will not have any road two days before the champion- We are looking to present some medallist Abdalelah Haroun. Allah we shall see good results Diamond Leagues and also the Sheikh Hamad bin Abdulaziz al- races, even though al-Hamad ships. The cooling systems will of the top Asian athletes to these While Qatar had missed out on from Qatari athletes,” al-Hamad world championships. The goal is Thani. said that “we are planning in the be used depending on their as- schools so that they can encour- a gold, fi nishing with six silver said. the world championships.”

TENNIS Djokovic survives Kohlschreiber scare in Monte Carlo AFP “I had to fi gure out how I need- start, it was my fi rst time on this The 56th-ranked Norrie was Monte Carlo, Principality of Monaco ed to move, this kind of match court. But playing here is a dream impressed with the dramatic set- can be expected. It was probably — it’s unreal.” ting of the iconic Monte Carlo good for me to spend so long on Cilic was playing here for the Country Club venue which over- ovak Djokovic was se- the court.” 11th straight year, with quarter- looks the Mediterranean from a verely tested before se- Djokovic was able to avoid a fi nal showings in three of the cliff . curing a 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 second straight loss to Kohlsch- previous four editions. “I like the conditions here. win over Philipp Kohls- reiber after the 35-year-old beat Left-hander Pella came to the Everything is kind of on top of chreiberN to survive his opening him last month in the Indian European clay with a title this each other,” he said. match at the Monte Carlo Mas- Wells third round. season in Sao Paulo. He now “It’s pretty sick kind of playing ters yesterday. Djokovic, who lives in the stands 13-3 on the surface in tennis on the side of a mountain The winner of the last three Principality, is playing his ‘home’ 2019. with a water view.” Grand Slams made eight double event for the 13th time in 14 years, Pella moved into a winning Canadian revelation Felix faults, dropped serve four times winning it in 2013 and 2015 and position as he broke Cilic for the Auger-Aliassime advanced into and smashed a racquet after los- losing in the fi nal on two other eighth time of the afternoon, a second-round contest with ing the second set to his German occasions. winning a six-minute game be- third seed Alexander Zverev after opponent in the second-round Kohlschreiber lost his 12th fore serving out the upset, sav- beating Argentine qualifi er Juan encounter. match from 13 played against ing a break point in the fi nal game Ignacio Londero 7-5, 7-6 (5). The world number one was re- top-ranked opponents, but gave and wrapping up victory as Cilic The 18-year-old Auger-Alias- lieved to avoid defeat in his fi rst as good as he got against an out- fi red wide. sime, who reached last month’s match of the clay season. of-sorts Djokovic, who needed Elsewhere, 2014 champion Miami semi-fi nals as a qualifi er, “It was a diffi cult match, there fi ve match points to go through. Stan Wawrinka collapsed after a now boasts a ranking of 33rd — were lots of breaks (a run of eight strong start to a 0-6, 7-5, 6-3 loss up from 175th when he played straight during the second and PELLA POUNDS CILIC to Italy’s Marco Cecchinato, who here a year ago. third sets),” Djokovic said. Argentine Guido Pella dealt a Serbia’s Novak Djokovic celebrates his win over Germany’s Philipp Kohlschreiber (not pictured) on the reached the French Open semi- “I’m very happy to win my “There were lots of ups and second-round blow to seventh fourth day of the Monte-Carlo Masters yesterday. (AFP) fi nals last year. fi rst match after Miami, because downs. It was not the prettiest of seed Marin Cilic, beating the In the fi rst round, Briton Cam- I didn’t know what to expect,” he matches. Croatian 6-3, 5-7, 6-1. matches since January’s Austral- reer match at the event in the “This is my best surface, I knew eron Norrie advanced in his de- said. “He played well, but a win is a Defeat in just over two hours ian Open, where he went out in fi rst round on Sunday, emerged a I had chances,” the world number but match at the event, with the Italian qualifi er Lorenzo Son- win. This was a tough fi rst match left 2014 US Open winner Cil- the fourth round. winner as he played on the idyllic 35 said. “But I had to play well. 23-year-old defeating Adrian ego beat Russian eighth seed of the clay season. ic with just one win from six Pella, who won his fi rst ca- centre court for the fi rst time. “I was a bit nervous at the Mannarino 6-4, 6-3. Karen Khachanov 7-6 (4), 6-4. Gulf Times 2 Wednesday, April 17, 2019 FOOTBALL

PREVIEW SPOTLIGHT Henderson thriving aft er coach Klopp It’s crunch time for lift s shackles

AFP But the level-headed Hend- London erson refused to be beaten down by Ferguson and others who wrote him off . Impressing ordan Henderson has Klopp with his tactical disci- City, admits Guardiola emerged as the unex- pline and relentless work eth- pected driving force in ic, Henderson has improved ‘The Champions League is tough. We fail all the time. Sorry guys, I’m a failure!’ Liverpool’s midfi eld af- signifi cantly since the German terJ persuading Jurgen Klopp took charge at Anfi eld in 2015, to grant him the freedom to earning the captain’s arm- roam. band. But even with his place Henderson has spent most in Klopp’s plans secure as a of his career as an unsung sup- reliable defensive midfi elder, port act for more glamourous Henderson remained restless team-mates with Liverpool for a bigger role in the team’s and England. attacking scheme. But the 28-year-old has won Off ered the chance to play Klopp’s trust so complete- in an advanced midfi eld berth ly that he goes into today’s during England’s recent Euro Champions League quarter- 2020 qualifi ers against the fi nal second leg at Porto fi rmly Czech Republic and Montene- established as one of the key gro, Henderson showcased his components of Liverpool’s versatility with two terrifi c push for a European Cup and performances. Premier League double. Emboldened by those dis- Ever since joining Liverpool plays, Henderson made a bee- from his hometown club Sun- line for Klopp’s offi ce on his derland in 2011, Henderson return to Liverpool’s Melwood had struggled to silence the training ground and made his critics who have questioned case to be used in the same his ability to infl uence matches role with the Reds. It wasn’t against the very best opposi- the fi rst time this season tion. Those doubters seized on Henderson had been willing criticism from former Man- to challenge Klopp after the chester United boss Alex Fer- pair briefl y clashed on the Old guson, who once wrote in his Traff ord touchline when the autobiography that he opted midfi elder was substituted not to sign Henderson because against Manchester United. of the way he ran. Intriguingly, Klopp decided “We looked at Jordan Hend- to bow to Henderson’s request erson a lot, and Steve Bruce on this occasion and the re- was unfailingly enthusiastic sults have been a revelation. about him. But we noticed He scored his fi rst goal for that Henderson runs from his 17 months in Liverpool’s 3-1 knees, with a straight back,” win at Southampton, deliv- Ferguson said. ered a dynamic show in the “The modern footballer 2-0 Champions League fi rst- runs from his hips, and we leg victory over Porto and then thought this gait might cause set up Sadio Mane’s opener him problems later in his cain Sunday’s vital 2-0 success reer.” against Chelsea.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola with his team during a training in Manchester, yesterday. (Reuters)

AFP Guardiola calls on Man City fans to help side overcome Spurs test and prepare before both legs. Manchester, United Kingdom “They had six days to prepare Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola called breaching financial fair play rules. But Guardiola is the fi rst game, we had two. Now on the home supporters to give his players their hoping the fans will put their animosity to one side they played Saturday, we played ep Guardiola admits full support as they look to overturn a 1-0 deficit and give the team a lift on Wednesday night. Sunday,” Guardiola said. “I don’t Manchester City’s bid against Tottenham Hotspur in today’s second-leg “At this stage, without supporters, we cannot go know why the Premier League for an unprecedented of the Champions League quarter-finals. through. I’m expecting. I’m really curious to how don’t put the games at 12.30 on quadruple will be de- But some tickets are still available for the match on our fans are going to react tomorrow,” Guardiola Saturday.” fiP ned by today’s Champions Guardiola’s irritability may the club’s website, and Guardiola admitted he was told a news conference. Liverpool’s Jordan Henderson. League showdown with Tot- curious to see how the atmosphere turns out for “The last 20 months, (the players) are so proud have been provoked by a ques- tenham and their following two this must-win game for City if it is to stay on track with what they have done. They are human beings, tion about his past jibe that Tot- Premier League games. for an unprecedented quadruple this season. they will have bad moments in the games, and at tenham were the ‘Harry Kane Guardiola’s side are in con- City fans take a poor view of UEFA and routinely that moment we need our supporters,” he said. team’ in reference to the England Former United star Scholes charged tention to win all four major boo its anthem when it is played ahead of matches, When asked what kind of atmosphere he wants, captain’s importance. with betting off ences trophies after lifting the League partly due to a hefty fine the club received from Guardiola replied: “Like Liverpool (league victory in Kane will miss the second leg Cup, reaching the FA Cup fi nal European soccer’s governing body in 2014 for January)...but a little better.” with ankle ligament damage Former Manchester United Rules,” the FA statement read. and staying in touch with Pre- sustained against City last week, great Paul Scholes has been “It is alleged he placed 140 mier League leaders Liverpool. but Guardiola wasn’t going to charged by the Football As- bets on football matches, con- City’s next obstacle on the If we don’t win these games we Having won the Premier an outburst laced with sarcasm. give Mauricio Pochettino’s side sociation (FA) for allegedly trary to FA Rule E8, between road to football immortality will be out of two competitions. League in record-breaking fash- “Not winning the Champions any extra motivational fuel. breaking their betting rules, 17 August 2015 and 12 January comes in the Champions League I’ve had this feeling for weeks,” ion last season, Guardiola could League in Bayern Munich was a “Tottenham without Kane are English football’s governing 2019. quarter-fi nal second leg against Guardiola told reporters yester- have been forgiven for focusing big failure. What can I say? the same strong team they had body announced yesterday. “He has until 26 April 2019 to Tottenham as they bid to over- day. on Europe this term as he looks “Do I have to win it? No. The three seasons ago, two seasons The charge levelled at the respond to the charge.” turn a 1-0 defi cit at the Etihad “Last season in this period we to win the Champions League chairman said I have to win the ago and this season,” he said. 44-year-old — whose first Scholes’ spell in charge of Stadium. Even if they beat Tot- were already champions. This for the third time as a boss – and Champions League three times Guardiola knows Totten- foray into management with Oldham started brightly with tenham to make the semi-fi nals, season we had an incredible op- the fi rst since his 2011 triumph in a row! ham will pose a serious threat Oldham lasted just 31 days a win, but he failed to pick up there will be no time for City ponent in the Premier League with Barcelona. “I didn’t come here to win the to City’s quadruple dreams over earlier this season — relates to another victory in his next six to rest on their laurels as they with Liverpool. Both teams de- Champions League honestly. I the next few days, and he called bets allegedly placed between games and left with the side face Spurs again in the Pre- serve to be champions, but just ‘I’M A FAILURE!’ came here to play the way we on the Etihad crowd to produce August 17, 2015, and January languishing in 14th place in mier League on Saturday before one is going to get it. But the City boss claims the played the last 20 months. an intimidating atmosphere. 12, 2019. The period covers the fourth tier. heading to Manchester United “After what we did last sea- Premier League remains his pri- “The Premier League is the “I know how focused the play- when Scholes was a part-own- Scholes, who won 11 Premier the following today. son, I’m surprised that we have mary goal. And Guardiola, who most important title, to be there ers are, I know the desire to get to er of non-league side Salford League titles and two Cham- With Liverpool two points 83 points right now. The target cut a tetchy fi gure for much of every three days competing.” the semi-fi nals,” he said. City, but before his appoint- pions League trophies during clear of City, who have a game in is 98, without that we will not be his press conference, refused to Guardiola’s grumpy mood “Every time we played away ment as Oldham manager in a glittering playing career hand, Guardiola acknowledged champions. Tottenham are in- accept he has underachieved in included a rant at the Premier in the Champions League the at- February 2019. with United, resigned as a the next seven days will decide credible and we don’t have rest. Europe’s elite club competition. League for failing to give Eng- mosphere was incredible, so we “Paul Scholes has been club director at Salford, while whether his team take their We played nine, 10 or 11 games “The Champions League is lish teams in Europe equal treat- need it. I want to see if our fans charged with misconduct in retaining his 10 percent stake, quadruple chase into the fi nal more than Liverpool. Even with tough. We fail all the time. Sorry ment. The Spaniard is irked that really want to get to the semi- relation to The FA’s Betting before taking the Oldham job. days of the season. “Defi nitely. that, I like this challenge.” guys, I’m a failure!” he said in Tottenham had more time to rest fi nals.”

FOCUS Al Duhail crowned Qatargas League champions By Sports Reporter Doha

l Duhail on Sunday were crowned Qa- targas U-23 League champions after crushing Al Kharaitiyat 8-0 in at their home turf of Abdullah bin Khalifa Sta- dium.A Qatar Football Association Executive Com- mittee member Hai Balan, Mansoor al-Ansari, QFA and Ali al-Sulaiti, head of Public Relations and Communication in Qatargas preceded over the league’s closing ceremony where they handed over the trophy and gold medals to champions Al Duhail. Salmeen Rumaihi and Fahad Waad both scored twice for the champions, meanwhile, Khalid Muneer, Saleh Saeed, Rabih Yahya, Ahmed Ab- dulhai all found the net on one occasion. Al Duhail, with 17 wins, topped the overall standings, having accumulated 53 points. In other matches, Al Sadd narrowly edged Al Arabi 2-1, Jassim al-Shammari scored both goals Al Duhail players celebrate for Al Sadd, while Khalid Ismael scored Al Ara- with the Qatargas U-23 bi’s lone goal. The win raised Al Sadd’s tally to League trophy. 29 points, while Al Arabi’s stopped at 40. Also, Umm Salal beat Al Rayyan 3-1. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 17, 2019 3 FOOTBALL

PREMIER LEAGUE LIGUE 1 PSG top guns Arsenal edge past missing for third tilt at title

AFP “We’ll be playing without 10-man Watford, Marquinos, Neymar, (Edinson) Paris Cavani, (Marco) Verrati, Bernat, (Thiago) Silva, (Thomas) Meu- fter stumbling as they nier and by the looks of it (Angel) reached for the French Di Maria too,” Tuchel said. title not once but twice, “That’s not our squad for a runaway Ligue 1 leaders Champions League match, it’s ParisA Saint-Germain can clinch our injury list,” he said smiling. move into top four the trophy by beating Nantes Tuchel vowed to fi nish the job. today despite an overcrowded “We’ll fi nd a solution for to- Aubameyang profits from a goalkeeper error as Gunners beat Watford 1-0 sickbay. morrow and looking at who we Despite two consecutive defeats have we are fully capable of beat- AFP the defending champions are 17 ing Nantes,” he said. London points clear of second placed Lille When asked if he wanted new and can still wrap up the title with recruits, the coach of one of the six league games to spare. world’s richest clubs said he did. rsenal moved into the But PSG are reinforcing a rep- “We know exactly who we Premier League top utation for choking. They went need and what we are targeting four, but made hard out of the Champions League and we’ll be trying to sign such work of seeing off with a horror show against Man- players” Tuchel said. 10-manA Watford 1-0 thanks to chester United, then missed Brazilian superstar Neymar Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s their fi rst chance to wrap up may be back soon. fortunate early opener on Mon- Ligue 1 when they drew at home “He’s feeling really well and day. to Strasbourg before Sunday’s is in no pain, he’s been training Aubameyang profi ted from an thumping 5-1 defeat at Lille. with the squad,” said Tuchel. error by Watford goalkeeper Ben In their defence, the Qatari One positive for Tuchel, PSG Foster as he blasted an attempt- backed club can point at an as- and French football in general ed clearance in off the Gabon in- tonishingly crowded sickbay, a is the continued excellence of ternational. problem exacerbated by the sus- the prodigy Kylian Mbappe, Watford captain Troy Deeney pension of Juan Bernat. who had two goals ruled out was then shown a straight red Beleagured coach Thomas for offside at the weekend. The card after just 11 minutes, but Tuchel joked yesterday that the French League’s top scorer and the Gunners failed to make the list of injured resembled what is showing maturity beyond his most of their man advantage might be mistaken for his fi rst- years during a tricky time for and were fortunate as the hosts team line up. his club. twice hit the woodwork. However, Unai Emery’s men held out for a fi rst clean sheet away from home in the Premier League this season to move ahead of Chelsea on goal diff erence into fourth. “We didn’t control the match like I wanted,” admitted Emery. “The team was anxious because they could (have) taken some moment. The most im- Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (centre) in action during the English Premier League match against Watford on Monday. (Reuters) portant for us is to score the second goal, which we didn’t do.” little favours early on. ree saw as an elbow into the face behind. football next season. Arsenal also edge to within Firstly, Foster dallied as Au- of Lucas Torreira. Emery introduced Mesut Ozil And they could have thrown a point of north London rivals bameyang closed in to concede a “If it is a foul I have a doubt, at half-time in an attempt to im- just a second away league win Tottenham and two clear of comical opener. maybe a yellow card but (a) red prove Arsenal’s fi nal ball with so since November away as Adam Manchester United in the four- “I’ve said sorry to the lads,” card, I don’t understand why the much space to counter-attack Masina crashed a 25-yard strike way battle for the two remaining said Foster. “I have tried to drag referee did it,” argued Watford into, but to little avail. off the crossbar before Andre Champions League places be- it on to my left and pass it out boss Javi Gracia. Alex Iwobi looked to have Gray miscontrolled Daryl Jan- hind Liverpool and Manchester but before I knew it he (Aubam- However, the 10 men were provided the perfect cross to maat’s pass when clean through City. eyang) was bloody on me. still causing problems to a de- pick out Henrikh Mkhitaryan, on Leno. Paris Saint-Germain coach Thomas Tuchel (right) speaks to Kylian FA Cup fi nalists Watford were “In hindsight you have to get fensively vulnerable Arsenal at but Foster made amends for his Gray was then denied by a Mbappe during the Ligue 1 match against Lille on Friday. (Reuters) already shorn of the man who rid as quick as you can, even if it the other end. earlier error by spreading him- last-ditch challenge from Ains- helped book their place at Wem- goes into row Z. I am defi nitely Craig Cathcart’s shot was self to make a brilliant save from ley Maitland-Niles after round- bley against Manchester City not a modern goalie. They can’t turned onto the post by Bernd the Armenian. ing Leno, but without the fi re- SPOTLIGHT next month as Gerard Deulofeu score from row Z.” Leno and the German goalkeep- Arsenal’s terrible away record power of Deulofeu and Deeney, missed out through injury and And within seconds, Deeney er was also a full stretch to turn is why they face such a tight bat- Watford’s brave eff ort fell just Javi Gracia’s side did themselves was punished for what the refe- an Etienne Capoue free-kick tle to secure Champions League short. Palace keeper Six fi ned aft er Milan-Lazio brawl, no action in shirt-swapping row showed ‘lamentable’

Reuters Francesco Acerbi at the end of Gabriele Gravina, the head of again,” he said on Monday. ($11,299) for their part in the Milan the game but then, with team the Italian soccer federation However, the tribunal said trouble. ignorance of Hitler mate Franck Kessie, waved it (FIGC) was among those who on Tuesday that “nothing The others were Andrea Ber- triumphantly in front of Milan had called for disciplinary was reported by the match tolacci and Mateo Musacchio erie A’s disciplinary fans in the Curva Sud in a action. delegate” and added that it of Milan and Lazio trio Lucas tribunal says will not take gesture which generated wide- “When Acerbi handed over his was not a case where evidence Leiva, Luiz Felipe and Patricio Sany action against two AC spread criticism. to the Milan players and shook from television images could be Gabarron. Milan players who paraded an The incident happened as scuf- their hands, he proved he used. “Therefore, the tribunal Bakayoko later phoned Acerbi opponent’s shirt in front of their fles broke out among players wanted to close any controver- is not competent to decide on to apologise and the Lazio fans “like a scalp” following the following the match which sy. Exhibiting the same shirt al- what happened,” it said in a defender appeared to accept, 1-0 win over Lazio on Saturday. was a key battle in the race for most like a scalp in front of the statement. when he tweeted: “Enough con- Tiemoue Bakayoko exchanged Champions League qualifica- crowd was an ugly reaction that Kessie, however, was among troversy, we’ll see each other on his jersey with Lazio defender tion. we ought to prevent happening six players fined 10,000 euros the pitch.”

LA LIGA Madrid disappoint again in draw with Leganes

AFP “Today I wanted to make Madrid a change,” Zidane said. “It is done.” Reuters In his defence, the South Lon- Chances were few and far be- London don club produced further pho- eal Madrid took the tween in the fi rst half but Ma- tographs showing the goalkeeper Monday night slot re- drid could twice have taken the making similar gestures during served for La Liga’s lead as Marco Asensio scuff ed n English Football As- matches while shouting at team lower teams and never his fi nish after being put through sociation panel that mates. reallyR looked out of place as Ka- by Isco and Raphael Varane’s cleared Crystal Palace “Mr Hennessey categorically rim Benzema’s goal was enough shot was blocked after a goalline goalkeeper Wayne denied that he was giving a Nazi only for a 1-1 draw away to scramble. HennesseyA of making a Nazi sa- salute,” the written reason stat- Leganes. Leganes, though, were other- lute said in a written report that ed. “Indeed, from the outset he Madrid delivered another wise rarely made to feel uncom- the player had shown a “lamen- said that he did not even know thoroughly underwhelming fortable and shortly before half- table” ignorance of Adolf Hitler what one was. performance at Butarque to time they took the lead. Madrid and Fascism. “Improbable as that may seem remain 13 points adrift of Bar- failed to clear, instead allowing In reasoning published on the to those of us of an older genera- celona, with Zinedine Zidane’s Martin Braithwaite to roll back FA website, the panel set out tion, we do not reject that asser- second reign as coach now de- to Silva, who guided the ball into why the Wales international was tion as untrue. livering three wins, one defeat the corner. cleared after being pictured with “In fact, when cross-exam- and a draw. Zidane strode down the tun- his right arm in the air in a photo ined about this Mr Hennessey Leganes might even have won nel at half-time and his team posted on Instagram by his Ger- displayed a very considerable - it after Jonathan Silva gave them emerged with greater purpose man team mate at Palace Max one might even say lamentable the lead shortly before half-time afterwards, with Benzema fi nd- Meyer. - degree of ignorance about any- and while Benzema scored his Leganes’ Jonathan Silva (right) celebrates with teammates after scoring against Real Madrid in their La ing an equaliser six minutes in. Hennessey had said he was thing to do with Hitler, Fascism 26th goal of the season, Madrid Liga match in Leganes, Spain, on Monday. (Reuters) Casemiro threaded a neat ball simply raising his right arm to and the Nazi regime.” never looked like fi nding a win- through to Luka Modric, who attract the attention of a waiter The report said that while such ner. Zidane was asked last month United in the Champions League dence, few will be feeling secure. twisted and set free Benzema. taking the photograph, while also ignorance was regrettable, it did “It looks like we do not have about the humiliation of play- quarter-fi nals on Tuesday, Real Benzema has been, by a dis- His fi rst shot was pushed out by cupping his left hand over his not mean the player was not tell- much confi dence,” Zidane said. ing on a Monday night, the time Madrid stepped out looking to tance, Madrid’s most consist- Pichu Cuellar but only back to mouth to make his voice carry. ing the truth. “We have to give a little bit typically reserved for La Liga’s salvage only pride and, perhaps, ent player this season and he Beznema, who fi red in the re- The photograph prompted an “All we would say (at the risk more.” sides not involved in European momentum ahead of what most showed again why Zidane has bound. outcry on social media and the of sounding patronising) is that Instead, they sit four points competitions and so unpopu- expect to be a busy summer. already said the striker will stay. Silva headed straight at Na- FA charged the 32-year-old with Mr Hennessey would be well ad- behind Atletico Madrid and fi n- lar that it will be abolished next Most of Zidane’s press con- Gareth Bale, meanwhile, was left vas and Youssef En-Nesyri had a a breach of its rules relating to vised to familiarise himself with ishing second, and above their season. ferences have so far been domi- on the bench for the second time goal correctly ruled out for off - abusive, insulting or improper events which continue to have city rivals, appears unlikely. It meant as Barcelona were nated by questions about his in three matches, with his pros- side late on. Neither side really conduct and bringing the game great signifi cance to those who Leganes climb to 11th. preparing to face Manchester players’ futures and on this evi- pects looking ever-more bleak. deserved a winner. into disrepute. live in a free country,” it added. Gulf Times 4 Wednesday, April 17, 2019 CRICKET

ANNOUNCEMENT Injury-hit Bangladesh recall Mosaddek for WC AFP Dhaka

angladesh called up batsman Mosaddek Hossain and uncapped fast bowler Abu Jayed forB their World Cup squad yesterday as they wrestle with a series of injuries. Mosaddek was named to com- pensate for fellow batting all- rounder Mahmudullah Riyad, who has suff ered a shoulder injury and looks unlikely to be able to bowl, said chief selector Min- hajul Abedin. Jayed also got the nod in the 15-man squad as potential cover for pace spearhead Mustafi zur Rahman, who is recovering from Batsman Mosaddek Hossain and (right) uncapped fast bowler Abu Jayed. an ankle sprain, and Rubel Hos- sain who has a side strain. “So we needed someone down and picked up seven wickets in 12 was no room for pace bowler Mosaddek, a useful off -spin- the order who could also bowl a one-day matches. Jayed was the Taskin Ahmed, who is also re- man squad for a tri-series in WC Squad: Mashrafe Mortaza SERIES: Mashrafe Mortaza ner, hasn’t played for Bangla- few overs. This is why we opted only uncapped player in what is covering from injury. “Taskin Ireland in early May, where un- (capt), Tamim Iqbal, Liton Das, (capt), Tamim Iqbal, Liton Das, desh since last year’s Asia Cup, for Mosaddek.” an otherwise experienced squad played his last ODI in October capped spinner Nayeem Hasan Soumya Sarkar, Mushfiqur Ra- Soumya Sarkar, Mushfiqur Ra- but he forced his way into the Mosaddek played a key role for the tournament in England 2017 and it was a long break for and batsman Yasir Ali will join him, Mahmudullah Riyad, Shakib him, Mahmudullah Riyad, Shakib reckoning with a series of big in Bangladesh’s win over New and Wales, starting on May 30. him,” said Minhajul. “There are the World Cup players. The Al Hasan, Mohamed Mithun, Sab- Al Hasan, Mohammad Mithun, scores in domestic cricket. Zealand at the 2017 Champions Four players have been to three 17 players going to Ireland and if games against Ireland and West bir Rahman, Mosaddek Hossain, Sabbir Rahman, Mosaddek “We have injury worries over Trophy, when he picked up three World Cups: skipper Mashrafe anyone gets injured or if he is fi t Indies will be held from May Mohamed Saifuddin, Mehidy Hossain, Mohamed Saifuddin, Mahmudullah. Most probably he vital wickets. His batting faded Mortaza, Tamim Iqbal, Shakib by that time, we will keep him as 5-17. Bangladesh open their Hasan, Rubel Hossain, Mustafi- Mehidy Hasan, Rubel Hossain, will not be able to bowl,” Min- until the recent Dhaka Premier al-Hasan and Mushfi qur Rahim. a back-up player.” World Cup against South Africa zur Rahman, Abu Jayed. Mustafizur Rahman, Abu Jayed, hajul told reporters in Dhaka. League where he scored 428 runs Jayed’s inclusion meant there Bangladesh also named a 17- at the Oval on June 2. SQUAD FOR IRELAND TRI- Nayeem Hasan, Yasir Ali.

IPL FOCUS Australia to rotate openers aft er Ashwin and Rahul Warner return

AFP matches leading up to the Sydney World Cup. “I love the fl exibility of it. (It’s about) boys playing their ustralian coach Jus- roles for the team not just lead Punjab to win tin Langer yesterday playing the roles that suit welcomed the top- them,” he said. order selection di- Australia named their World lemmaA posed by the return of Cup squad on Monday with David Warner as off ering “fan- middle order batsman Peter tastic fl exibility” to the team Handscomb “brutally un- ahead of the World Cup. lucky” to have to make way for The return of Steve Smith Smith. “Steve Smith we felt over Rajasthan and Warner from their year- would probably be able to play long bans for ball-tampering that role that Pete has done so ‘Very important for us to get into the 10 point category. The race is heating up. has left selectors in a quanda- well for us,” Langer said. ry, with openers Aaron Finch The decision to drop Hands- Everyone is on eight points. It’s important to catch the momentum right now’ and Usman Khawaja building comb also means the team a formidable partnership in only has one wicketkeeper in recent one-day internationals. Alex Carey. But Langer said Warner has been in blister- Tim Paine, Matthew Wade and ing touch in the Indian Premier Handscomb, all named in one League and typically opens the of Australia’s two A squads batting. But Langer yesterday which will play in England lat- said it was a welcome prob- er this year, were on standby if lem to have all three poten- Carey was injured. tial openers fi ring. “We have “Usually wicketkeepers, amazing fl exibility now,” he they give up their spot for no- told Melbourne radio SEN. one. They have to do a pretty “Usman and Finchy have serious injury to move aside done an incredible job opening for someone else,” he said. the batting. David and Finchy “And Alex Carey he is elite- have done a great job in the fi t and is as tough as they come. past doing it,” he added. But if something does happen Langer said he would “mix then we will have someone and match” the top order in there to replace them.”

WORLD CUP Archer selection would be morally unfair, says Woakes

Reuters London

hris Woakes believes it would be unfair for England selectors to ask any player to make wayC for the uncapped all- rounder Jofra Archer in the Kings XI Punjab bowler Murugan Ashwin (second left) celebrates with captain Ravichandran Ashwin (centre) after dismissing Rajasthan Royals batsman Ashton Turner during World Cup squad. their Indian Premier League match at the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium in Mohali yesterday. (AFP) Barbados-born Archer, who shone for Sussex last season IANS Royals’ charge. After Tripathi’s starred with the ball, could not seamlessly before getting out to (0) in the 19th over before Dhaw- and in Australia’s Big Bash Mohali dismissal, the visitors needed 56 impress too. Jaydev Unadkat (1/48). al Kulkarni accounted for Miller, Twenty20 league for Ho- off 24. Earlier, buoyed by a World Kings XI lost Chris Gayle 30 the South African trying to clear bart Hurricanes, is eligible miss out. But it’s the nature of But Ajinkya Rahane (26) failed Cup call-up, KL Rahul struck (22b; 2x4; 3x6) early, with the wide long on and instead giving for national selection under international cricket that there kipper R Ashwin struck to lead from the front once again a well-timed fi fty but Archer veteran southpaw edging a Jofra wicketkeeper Jos Buttler an easy new England & Wales Cricket is always someone knocking on at crucial times while and Stuart Binny’s unbeaten 11- stole the limelight from him with Archer delivery to Sanju Sam- catch in the fi nal over. Board (ECB) residency rules. the door.” KL Rahul scored a ma- ball 31 too proved futile in the splendid fi gures of 3/15 as Kings son behind the stumps. After the But just when it looked like Archer’s ability to bowl at England will name a provi- tured half century to help end as Kings XI won easily at the XI Punjab posted 182/6 after be- Powerplay overs, the home team Kings XI would fi nish with a over 90 miles per hour and his sional 15-man squad for the KingsS XI Punjab return to win- end. Royals managed 170/7 in 20 ing asked to bat fi rst. Rahul, who were 39/1. Agarwal could not whimper, Ashwin led from the lower-order power-hitting World Cup today , alongside an ning ways with a 12-run victory overs. was included in the 15-member convert his start, as his whirl- front by smashing a four and two skills have earned him a number expanded group of 17 for limit- over Rajasthan Royals in an In- Besides Ashwin, Moham- World Cup squad on Monday, wind 12-ball 26 cut was short by back-to-back sixes off the last of high-profi le admirers ined-overs series against Ireland dian Premier League (IPL) clash med Shami (2/46) and Arshdeep took 47 balls to score 52 with the Ish Sodhi with Archer taking a two balls to fi nish on a high. cluding England regulars Ben and Pakistan next month. yesterday. Singh (2/43) also got two wick- help of three fours and two sixes. brilliant catch at long on. Rahul “Very important for us to get Stokes and Jos Buttler. Some Even if Archer is not includ- Chasing 183 for victory after ets. Royals were off to a yingfl David Miller (40 off 27 balls; and Miller then upped the ante into the 10 point category. The are concerned about who would ed in the initial squad, England KL Rahul helped Kings XI post start despite losing Jos Buttler 2x4; 2x6) also played a vital role in the 14th and 15th overs with 39 race is heating up. Everyone is be left out if he were to join the can make changes to it until 182/6 with a well-paced 52, Roy- (23) early. as the pair stitched together a runs coming from them. on eight points. It’s important to England squad, however. “If May 23, seven days before their als were on course with 94 need- Tripathi and Samson were 85-run stand for the third wick- Rahul brought up his 14th fi fty catch the momentum right now,” he was to come in and some- tournament opener against ed off 60 balls. going about their job perfectly et. But Archer bowled a brilliant in the IPL in the 17th over, milk- man-of-the-match R Ashwin one was to miss out, it would South Africa at The Oval. But Ashwin (2/24), whose when Ashwin fi rst castled Sam- second spell to not only snare ing Archer for a sublime bound- said. be extremely unfortunate,” all- Asked if there would be add- 4-ball 17 run cameo proved to son and then also did not allow two wickets in the same over ary between cover and mid-off rounder Woakes told BBC Sport. ed pressure on Archer if called be the diff erence in the end, re- Rahane and Tripathi to guide but check the run fl ow, before but Unadkat made amends for BRIEF SCORES: Kings XI Pun- “We’ve been a tight-knit group up, Woakes said: “He might moved Sanju Samson (27) in the the team through as the batsman Kings XI skipper Ashwin played getting spanked by the India jab 182/6 in 20 overs (KL Rahul for the last two to three years, thrive off it or it might have the 12th over to break the 59-run holed out to Mayank Agarwal at a 4-ball 17 run cameo to take the right-hander earlier, by remov- 52; David Miller 40; Jofra Archer played some really strong crick- opposite eff ect. But from what second wicket stand with Rahul long off . score past the 180-run mark. ing him in the 18th over, with 3/15) vs Rajasthan Royals 170/7 et, won a lot of series. everyone is hearing he might be Tripathi (50 off 45 balls; 4x4) Once Rahane was gone, Ash- Rahul started very slowly and Archer taking the catch at point. in 20 overs (Rahul Tripathi 50; R “Apart from a personal level, part of the Ireland and Pakistan and then got the back of Tripathi ton Turner (0) failed on de- was 13 off 23 balls at the halfway Archer then removed Nicholas Ashwin 2/24, Mohamed Shami I wouldn’t want to see any of matches so there will be pres- in the 16th over to further dent but while Jofra Archer (1), who stage. But then he shifted gears Pooran (5) and Mandeep Singh 2/46, Arshdeep Singh 2/43). my mates and team-mates sure on everyone to perform. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 17, 2019 5 SPORT

NBA NHL Mrazek shines as Hurricanes rout Caps Clippers pull off a period allowed by the Hurri- AFP Los Angeles canes in franchise playoff history.

he Carolina Hurricanes MAKAR SCORES IN DEBUT AS made their fi rst home AVS OVERPOWER FLAMES playoff game in a dec- Nathan MacKinnon had two ade a successful one by goals and an assist, Cale Makar biggest comeback Ttrouncing the defending Stanley scored in his NHL debut, and the Cup champions Washington Colorado Avalanche put 56 shots Capitals 5-0 on Monday. on goal while beating the Calgary Warren Foegele and Dougie Flames 6-2 on Monday night in Hamilton scored two goals each Denver in a Western Conference and goaltender Petr Mrazek quarter-fi nals series. posted his fourth playoff shut- Mikko Rantanen and Matt out in fi ve career victories as Nieto had a goal and an assist in playoff history the Hurricanes cut the Capitals’ each, Erik Johnson also scored, lead in the best-of-seven series and Philipp Grubauer stopped 25 ‘This is who we are. We hung in there long enough. We found a way to win the game’ to 2-1. Mrazek stopped 18 shots in the win, while Capitals goalie RESULTS Braden Holtby, the star Toronto 3-2 Boston of last year’s Stanley Cup playoff s, stopped Carolina 5-0 Washington 40 shots. “We were re- Nashville 3-2 Dallas lentless. We just kept Colorado 6-2 Calgary going at them,” Ham- ilton said. “The crowd was unbelievable. It was one of shots for eighth-seeded Colo- the loudest buildings I’ve ever rado, which took a 2-1 series lead played in, and just so fun.” over the top-seeded Flames. Game four is on Thursday in Sam Bennett and TJ Brodie North Carolina. Foegele scored produced goals, and Mike Smith the opening two goals and Ham- made 50 saves for the Flames. ilton came through on the pow- Calgary has dropped the past erplay as the Hurricanes jumped two games in the series after to a 3-0 lead. The loss snapped shutting out the Avalanche 4-0 the Capitals’ playoff winning in Game 1. The Flames took 50 streak at six straight games dat- minutes in penalties and al- ing back to last season. lowed two power-play goals and Carolina lost rookie defence- a short-handed tally Monday. man Andrei Svechnikov after he Game 4 is Wednesday night in hit his head on the ice during a Denver. The Avalanche struggled fi ght with 33-year-old Capital to score for most of two games forward Alex Ovechkin. in Calgary but wasted no time Svechnikov, who turned 19 in getting on the board Monday. last month, took on the grey- MacKinnon, who netted the over- haired Ovechkin but got caught time winner in Calgary on Sat- with a punch to the head that urday night, gave Colorado a 2-0 sent him crashing to the ice. He lead with a pair of power-play will be examined by team doc- goals 5:08 apart in the fi rst period. tors on Tuesday. He skated to the slot and beat The fi ght came shortly after Smith with a wrister at 8:26 and Carolina took a 1-0 lead. later in the period scored on a Svechnikov scored the two shot just under Smith’s arm off a Carolina goals in game one. pass from Rantanen at 13:34. Ovechkin, who scored 51 goals in Makar capped a whirlwind 48 the regular season, has just one hours when he beat Smith with goal in the playoff s. “He asked his fi rst NHL shot on goal at me to fi ght and said, ‘Let’s go,’” 16:02 of the fi rst period to make Lou Williams of the LA Clippers goes up for a shot on Kevin Durant of the Golden State Warriors during Game Two of the first round of the 2019 NBA Western Conference Ovechkin said. Washington’s it 3-0. Makar signed an entry- Playoff s at ORACLE Arena in Oakland, California. (AFP) only shot of the second period level contract with Colorado on came after 15 minutes elapsed, Sunday, just hours after playing AFP in there long enough. We found The Clippers also came back Clippers Landry Shamet hit a record for most points in a with Carolina holding an 18-1 in the NCAA title game for the Los Angeles a way to win the game.” from being 27 points down in a three pointer with 16 seconds quarter. The Sixers also set a edge in shots for the period. University of Massachusetts in Williams also had 11 as- playoff win over the Memphis left for the game winner. Harrell club record for most points in That was the fewest shots in Buff alo, N.Y., on Saturday night. sists, going 13-of-22 from the Grizzlies in 2012. sank two free throws with fi ve a playoff game, squaring their he Los Angeles Clippers fi eld and eight-of-10 from the “We changed a couple things seconds left to cap the scoring. best-of-seven opening round delivered the biggest free throw line. Game three is off ensively and defensively on series 1-1. Game three is on comeback in NBA play- Thursday in Los Angeles. the fl y in the third,” Rivers said. ‘We need everybody’ Thursday in New York. off history Monday, ral- The stretch drive featured the “And it worked out for us.” Elsewhere, Ben Simmons heard Ailing Joel Embiid fi nished Tlying from a 31-point defi cit for Clippers’ consistent mid-range The Warriors got more bad cheers instead of jeers Monday with 23 points and 10 rebounds a shocking 135-131 win over the game against the Warriors’ in- news after the game when they as the Philadelphia 76ers set a to lead Philadelphia, who shot two-time defending champion consistent three-point shoot- learned centre DeMarcus Cous- franchise record with 51 points 56 percent from the fi eld. Em- Golden State Warriors. ing. But fouls and injuries also ins suff ered a serious injury. in the third quarter en route to biid was a game-time decision Lou Williams scored 36 worked against the Warriors in Cousins injured his left quad in a 145-123 playoff win over the due to a sore left knee. points and Montrezl Harrell game two of the fi rst round se- the fi rst quarter and is expected Brooklyn Nets. “Everybody’s got to bring it,” nailed a couple of clutch late ries. Warriors coach Steve Kerr to have an MRI scan done on it Australia’s Simmons, who had Embiid said. “We need every- free throws as the Clippers described it as an epic melt- on Tuesday. criticised the Philadelphia fans’ body.” surprised even themselves to down. “It is a signifi cant quad inju- booing in game one of the se- Tobias Harris added 19 square the fi rst round playoff “Once you lose momentum in ry,” said Kerr without going into ries, delivered a triple-double points, JJ Redick scored 17, re- series at 1-1. a game, it is hard to get it back,” detail. “We will get an MRI done of 18 points, 12 assists and 10 serve centre Boban Marjanovic Clippers coach Doc Rivers said Kerr. “We lost this game in tomorrow. He is going to be out rebounds. had 16 and Mike Scott scored 15 said he told his players at halft- the middle of the third quarter a while. It is signifi cant.” He joined Wilt Chamberlain for Philadelphia. ime, when they were down by 23 when we stopped playing. Williams drained a key jump and Charles Barkley as the only Spencer Dinwiddie scored points, to not give up. “We got up by 31 and we shut shot over Klay Thompson with Sixers to get multiple triple- 19 and D’Angelo Russell added “I said ‘We are going to win down. We got exactly what we 46 seconds remaining after doubles in the postseason, and 16 for the Nets, who set a team this game.’ I was honest with deserved.” Curry had put the Warriors this time he left to a standing record for points allowed in a them. I said, ‘I don’t know how. The Clippers topped the ahead 131-128 on a three-point- ovation from the home fans. postseason game. Carolina Hurricanes goaltender Petr Mrazek stops the shot of Just hang in there with each Los Angeles Lakers’ rally from er 12 seconds earlier. Philadelphia grabbed com- Rondae Hollis-Jeff erson Washington Capitals centre Evgeny Kuznetsov in the third period in other,’” Rivers said. a 29-point defi cit to beat the After Klay Thompson missed mand of the contest with a got 15, while Caris LeVert and game three of the first round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoff s at PNC “This is who we are. We hung Seattle Supersonics in 1989. a shot from beyond the arc, 51-point third quarter, a team Shabazz Napier scored 13 each. Arena. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

MLB Yelich homers power Brewers past Cardinals Reuters home run to end the top half of the second, RESULTS Milwaukee Moustakas led off the bottom half with a home run. Ben Gamel and Peralta added RBI Brewers 10-7 Cardinals singles to make it 3-2. hristian Yelich continued his domi- Orioles 8-1 Red Sox Yelich’s homer two batters after Peralta nance over the St. Louis Cardinals Rangers 12-7 Angels made it 6-2. St. Louis catcher Yadier Molina this season, setting career highs Cubs 7-2 Marlins drove in Goldschmidt with a one-out double with three home runs and seven in the third to make it 6-3. RBIsC to lead the host Milwaukee Brewers to Blue Jays 5-3 Twins a 10-7 win Monday in the opener of a three- White Sox 5-4 Royals RANGERS START SLOWLY, THEN ERUPT game series. Dodgers 4-3 Reds TO HAMMER ANGELS The seven RBIs tied a franchise record. Four diff erent Rangers drove in a pair of runs Yelich hit a three-run homer to cap the Rockies 5-2 Padres apiece as Texas rallied from an early three- six-run second for Milwaukee, then added Indians 6-4 Mariners run hole to rout the Los Angeles Angels 12-7 a three-run homer off reliever Mike Mayers on Monday night in Arlington, Texas. (0-1) in the sixth to snap a 6-6 tie. His solo 27 games, went 2-for-3 with two walks and Shin-Soo Choo, Joey Gallo and Asdrubal shot in the eighth made it 10-6. two RBIs. The Cardinals had come back from Cabrera each hit home runs, while Gallo, Ca- Yelich is 9-for-16 against St. Louis this an early 6-2 defi cit to get a run in the third, brera, Nomar Mazara and Isiah Kiner-Falefa season with seven home runs and 15 RBIs in then tie the game with three runs in the top has two RBIs apiece. fi ve games. of the sixth. Cabrera’s two-run blast in the sixth Mike Moustakas also homered for the After Dexter Fowler scored on a passed capped a three-run inning and a surge of 10 Brewers, and Moustakas, Eric Thames and ball to make it 6-4, Goldschmidt and Marcell runs over four innings that vaulted Texas Yasmani Grandal had two hits apiece. Ozuna followed with RBI singles, the latter from a 4-1 defi cit in the middle of third to a Milwaukee right-hander Freddy Peralta making the score 6-6. All three runners were commanding 11-4 lead after six. gave up back-to-back home runs to Paul put on base by Alex Claudio, who gave way Cabrera, who doubled to right and scored Goldschmidt and Paul DeJong in the fi rst in- to Junior Guerra (1-0). Though Guerra al- in the second inning, and Gallo, who went ning. Peralta lasted just 3 1/3 innings, giving lowed all baserunners to score, he got the win 3-for-5, each hit their fi fth home run of the up three runs, four hits and three walks while thanks to Yelich’s second home run. season. All of Cabrera’s blasts have come at striking out three. Ozuna also homered in the ninth of Josh home. Cardinals starter Dakota Hudson went 3 Hader to make it 10-7. Texas crushed Los Angeles pitching for a 2/3 innings and allowed six runs, all in the Goldschmidt homered on the fi rst pitch he dozen hits through six innings and 14 overall second inning, on eight hits and three walks. saw from Peralta, and DeJong followed two to go with seven walks. The Rangers knocked He fanned three. pitches later with another to make it 2-0. out Angels starter Trevor Cahill after four Goldschmidt, who came in hitting.413 at After center fi elder Lorenzo Cain robbed innings. Cahill gave up four runs on fi ve hits Milwaukee Brewers Christian Yelich rounds first base after hitting a three-run home run in the sixth inning Miller Park with 12 home runs and 28 RBIs in Cardinals third baseman Matt Carpenter of a and two walks while striking out two. against the St. Louis Cardinals at Miller Park. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Gulf Times 6 Wednesday, April 17, 2019 SPORT

ATHLETICS OLYMPICS Tokyo 2020 marathons to Cherono in last start early due to heat fears

Reuters degrees for the fi rst time since held in the morning while Bas- Tokyo 1998, according to the Japanese ketball and swimming will also Meteorological Agency. feature medal events in the Athletes focus on developing a morning. ext year’s men’s and strong circadian rhythm to per- “By looking at the Olympic gasp Boston women’s Olympic form at their best during com- schedule as a whole it should be marathons will start at petition and will have to amend observed that one gave consid- 6am local time to try to their schedules for this ultra- eration to local, Japanese, as well Navoid the worst of Tokyo’s blaz- early start time. as global audiences,” Murofushi ing summer heat, organisers said Tokyo 2020 organisers said said. yesterday. the changes had been ratifi ed by “Also, I hear that athletes are The marathons had been the International Association of saying it is possible to condition scheduled to begin at 7am but Athletics Federations (IAAF). if they know the schedule in ad- Marathon win with temperatures reaching over “We have an approval from the vance, so I think that they should 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahr- IAAF athletes commission, (so) it condition themselves to do their Among the women, Degefa claims biggest win of her career enheit) last year organisers were is understood we have approval best at Games time.” under pressure to make changes from athletes,” said Olympic gold Women’s softball will be the AFP to ensure the safety of athletes medallist Koji Murofushi, who is fi rst event of the Olympics, in Boston and supporters. Sports Director at Tokyo 2020. Fukushima on July 22, two days The 50 kilometre race walk The schedule was also notice- before the Opening Ceremony. fi nal has also been moved to able for the number of fi nals tak- The women’s 10 metres air ri- enya’s Lawrence Cher- 5.30am local time to avoid the ing place in the morning, partly fl e is the fi rst medal event of the ono sprinted to victory midday sun. due to the heat as well as con- Games, starting at 8.30am on in the Boston Mara- A record heatwave last year siderations for US broadcast- July 25. thon on Monday, over- killed over a dozen people in ers wanting showpiece events in The Opening Ceremony will Khauling Ethiopia’s Lelisa Desisa Tokyo with July average tem- prime time. take place at 8pm local time on in the fi nal few metres of the peratures reaching more than 30 Nine athletics fi nals will be July 24. gruelling race to claim a thrilling win. In damp, chilly conditions, SPOTLIGHT Cherono, Desisa and Kenya’s Kenneth Kipkemoi broke away from the fi eld over the fi nal few miles as the world’s oldest ma- Athlete body says NOCs should jor marathon reached a dramatic conclusion. Desisa, the 2013 World Cham- lead on sponsorship freedom pion and two-time Boston Mara- thon champion, looked to be on Reuters course for victory as he kicked for London home in the fi nal 200m. But with the crowds at Boston’s famous Boylston Street finish line ational Olympic Com- roaring them on, it was Cherono who mittees should take the timed his finish to perfection, over- lead in helping athletes hauling the grimacing Desisa just a win more freedom to few metres from the tape to claim a Npromote their personal sponsors Kenya’s Lawrence Cherono (left) crosses the finish line ahead of Ethiopia’s Lelisa Desisa during the 123rd magnificent win in 2hr 7min 57 sec. running of the Boston Marathon in Boston, United States, on Monday. (Reuters) during Games, the head of the Cherono raised his arms in Global Athlete movement said on celebration after claiming the Degefa hit the front in the fa’s lead, narrowing the gap to Monday. biggest win of his career in his early stages before pulling away around one minute with a cou- Rule 40 of the Olympic charter fi rst ever appearance in the Bos- to fi nish in 2hr 23min 31sec. ple of miles to go, Degefa never states that participants in the Ol- ton Marathon. The 28-year-old had forged looked in danger of being over- ympic Games cannot allow their There was disappointment into a two-minute lead by the hauled. “person, name, picture or sports for defending Boston champion 12-mile mark and had pulled Kiplagat crossed in second in performances to be used for ad- Yuki Kawauchi of Japan, who away to lead by four minutes a time of 2:24:13 while Jordan vertising purposes during the never challenged the leading through 20 miles. Hasay of the United States fi n- Olympic Games”. International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach. pack before crossing the fi nish Degefa’s pace slowed dramat- ished third. Defending champi- The German Cartel Offi ce line in 17th place. ically over the closing stages, as on Desiree Linden of the United ruled in February, however, that ‘responsibility on the NOCs to you approach your NOCs or fed- Earlier, the women’s race saw Kenya’s Edna Kiplagat, the 2017 States was fi fth in 2:27:00. the IOC and German Olympic see what we can do to help you erations and enter into a binding Ethiopia’s Worknesh Degefa Boston champion, kicked hard Sports Confederation (DOSB) athletes’,” he said. agreement of what are the rights claim the biggest win of her cain pursuit. Worknesh Degefa of Ethiopia were subject to competition laws The insidethegames.biz web- and responsibilities of an ath- reer after leading almost from But although Kiplagat celebrates her win with the and must grant more rights for site quoted Bach on Sunday as lete.” start to fi nish. steadily chipped away at Dege- Boston Marathon trophy. promotional activities ahead of telling the International Ath- Rule 40 is aimed at protecting and during the Games. letes’ Forum in Lausanne that the rights of the IOC’s own Ol- The ruling only applies in Ger- there was no one-size-fi ts-all ympic sponsors who contribute many and IOC President Tho- solution. billions of dollars to the organi- Drug testing methods stuck in the 1970s, says former WADA head mas Bach was quoted as saying sation of the Games. at the weekend that other ath- My recommendation Koehler, a former deputy di- Reuters now chairman of the Athletics ger-pricking tests, which other “We’re still doing something letes should talk directly to their to you as athlete rector general of the Montreal- London Integrity Unit. experts said could become that was done in the 1970s. National Olympic Committee representatives is that based World Anti-Doping Agen- “We’re still in a position where painful over time and were also How many of you turn on the (NOC) or federation. you approach your cy (WADA), also replied to Bach we’re getting the same number a sensitive issue for athletes wireless? That’s what we were “We welcome the fact that the ‘ telling athletes they did not need NOCs or federations and rug testing methods in of positive cases each year, using their hands, or airport- doing in the 1970s. How many IOC is now starting to raise this enter into a binding those “who pretend to speak on sport are still rooted in and many of them are in the security-style scanning. have got a phone on a cord? issue, which has long been on the agreement of what are the your behalf”. Dthe 1970s and better category of what I call the A later presentation discussed We’re stuck when it comes to minds of the overwhelming ma- rights and responsibilities “Based on what I’ve heard technology is needed to catch ‘dopey dopers’ — the inadvert- capillary collection devices, anti-doping process,” he said. jority of Olympic athletes,” said of an athlete from the athletes, they really Global Athlete director general want people to stand up for them more than “dopey dopers”, ent dopers, or the ones who which are less invasive than Howman said urine tests were — Thomas Bach, former World Anti-Doping head are just darned stupid.” venous sampling. easy to circumvent and too ex- Rob Koehler. and to represent their rights,” he IOC president David Howman said yesterday. Howman, a lawyer, said he had Matthew Fedoruk of the US Anti- pensive, costing in some cases “This is a fi rst step to recognis- said. Speaking at a conference or- been reproached in his time Doping Agency (USADA) said $1,000 per sample for a private ing the growing mood among the Global Athlete is being fund- ganised by the Partnership for at WADA by scientists for not such alternative methods were collection agency to carry out athlete community to have their “What we are doing now is ed by independent foundation Clean Competition (PCC), How- considering more innovative being tested but urine samples and send to a laboratory. marketing and commercial rights actively contacting NOCs and FairSport along with individual man told delegates there had technology. remained the ‘gold standard’. He added that of samples col- liberated at an Olympic Games.” starting talks advising them of donors who have no part in the to be more eff ective systems. “We’ve worked out other ways Howman, who explained that lected and analysed by WADA-ac- Koehler told Reuters that he what we agreed after the DOSB decision making or operations of “We all know that urine analy- of doing forensic science in he was trying to provoke and credited laboratories in 2017, only would have preferred the IOC negotiated this with the Cartel the movement. sis has not advanced much,” terms of solving crime. Why challenge, said the main thing 1.43 percent resulted in adverse to put the onus on NOCs rather Offi ce in Germany. We will fi nd The organisation, set up after said the New Zealander, who aren’t we doing something more was to look at the latest tech- analytical findings — or about 0.6 than leaving it up to athletes who out what it means for them,” he a Russian doping crisis and USA left the World Anti-Doping innovative?” he told Reuters. nology from an anti-doping percent when approved medical lacked the staff and time. said. Gymnastics sexual abuse scan- Agency (WADA) in 2016 and is He mentioned thumb- or fin- standpoint. exemptions were excluded. “I would have liked to see it “My recommendation to you dal, aims to empower Olympic fl ipped around a little bit saying as athlete representatives is that athletes.

BOTTOMLINE ‘I hated rugby’: Retired All Black Dagg opens up on mental health

AFP “Having that close support Wellington network to get through those times was crucial. As men we Vunipola let off with formal warning by RFU don’t talk and we need to talk,” he AFP ll Blacks 2011 World revealed. London Cup-winner Israel “You can’t bottle it up and do Dagg opened up yes- everything on your own. It is too terday about the mental hard and it will weigh you down,” ngland star Billy Vunipo- healthA battles that nearly drove he said. la (centre) has escaped him out of the game. “If there is one thing I’ve Ewith a “formal warning” The 30-year-old outside back, learned it is just to talk to people. from the Rugby Football Union who announced his retirement It’s OK to cry. after they held a meeting over last week due to a chronic knee “I’ve had moments when I’ve his defending Israel Folau’s injury, said he descended into a cried to my best mates and I’ve anti-homosexual social media mental trough after missing out cried to my wife and there’s some comments. on New Zealand selection for the people out there that might think Vunipola liked Folau’s post and issued with a formal warning public comments and under- 2015 World Cup and suff ering a I’m a pussy and weak, but I don’t called for people to “live their under RFU rule 5.12 for conduct stood that he had caused hurt serious injury soon after. care. People cry and need to share lives how God intended” after prejudicial to the interests of and off ence as a result of his “I was down, I hated rugby,” their emotions.” the controversial Australia the union or the game,” read actions,” said the RFU. he told the All Blacks podcast After almost six months side- back, who is now facing the the RFU statement. “He has been reminded of his on Tuesday as he revealed how lined by injury, Dagg returned with sack unless he repents, claimed “The warning will be retained responsibilities as an England he suff ered an emotional roller- a new-found passion for the game “Hell awaits” homosexuals as on his disciplinary record for player and as an ambassador coaster ride. in 2016 and after a standout season well as drunks and adulterers a period of five years and may for the game, which values “I was walking down the street for the Canterbury Crusaders, he amongst others. be taken into account in future inclusivity and respect.” and I would look at people and regained his place in the All Blacks Vunipola — who also received disciplinary proceedings.” Vunipola will also be available think to myself ‘he’s looking at and enjoyed one of his best seasons a formal warning from his club Vunipola, who was booed every for Saracens’ European Champi- me going ‘you’re a pussy’ and with 10 tries in 12 Tests. Saracens — is free to play in this time he touched the ball in ons Cup semi-final with Irish ‘you’re so useless’. I was like, ‘nah New Zealand Rugby’s well- year’s World Cup for which he Saracens’ defeat by Bristol last province Munster on Saturday I shouldn’t be feeling like this’.” being manager Nathan Price ap- is a pivotal member of Eddie Saturday, had according to the after they, too, held talks. The 66-Test Dagg, renowned plauded Dagg for speaking out, Jones’ starting XV. RFU accepted he hurt people Vunipola also issued a state- for his ability under the high ball saying he had set “a really great “Following a meeting between by his stance. ment saying he did not intend and his deceptive sidestep, said pointment of 2015. solace in friends and family who example about how important the RFU and Billy Vunipola, the “During the meeting the player to hurt anyone and he bears he was ready to walk away from But when later recovering from helped him rediscover his love of and eff ective it can be to just Saracens forward has been expressed genuine regret at his “love towards ALL people”. the game following the disap- a dislocated shoulder he found the game. reach out and ask for help”. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 17, 2019 7 SPORT

GOLF SPOTLIGHT Tiger’s success in Masters a win for Drought-buster: golf business

Reuters Tiger Woods is on leaderboards London on Sunday generated 30 to 40 % higher ratings in the United States for those tournaments,” Woods set to chase iger Woods’ victory at Pilson said. the Masters golf tour- Woods was a 20-year-old nament on Sunday, his prodigy when he turned pro in Tfi rst major victory since 1996. Less than a year later he 2008, is expected to lift sales for was ranked No 1 in the world. He sponsors, broadcasters and golf struck lucrative endorsement courses lucky enough to host a deals — including a fi ve-year, tournament with Woods playing. $40mn deal with Nike — and golf more major glory The competition put the experienced a surge in popular- 43-year-old back on top of a ity. The revamped golf schedule may now assist him in his quest for more glory sport he helped transform 25 Then Woods’ personal life col- years ago. lapsed and with it, his brand. In AFP “Tiger sells golf,” says Eric 2009, after the news of multi- Augusta Smallwood, president of Apex ple infi delities, he lost endorse- Marketing Group, Inc, a Michi- ment deals with companies like gan analytics fi rm. Apex found AT&T Inc and Accenture Plc. iger Woods ended his 11- that Nike earned $22.5mn worth Other sponsors, such as Procter year wait for a 15th ma- of brand exposure just from & Gamble Co’s Gillette and Berk- jor title at the Masters. 17 -04-2019 Woods’ fi nal round, with Nike’s shire Hathaway Inc’s NetJets, Now the golf world is “Swoosh” logo splashed on his kept their contracts with Woods Twondering whether the hunt to hat, shirt, pants and shoes. Nike but stopped using him in mar- overhaul Jack Nicklaus’s record stock was up about 1% on Mon- keting. of 18 major titles is back on. day. Four back surgeries later, The cheers and raw emotion Tournament broadcaster CBS Woods continued to suff er pro- of Woods’ victory at Augusta Corp saw a ratings bump. Based fessionally and in the public eye. National on Sunday had barely on preliminary data, the fi nal In 2017, police arrested him for subsided before the 43-year- round of Sunday’s tournament driving under the infl uence; he old was asked about whether he was the highest-rated morning pleaded guilty to reckless driving would now resume his chase for golf broadcast since 1986, when and entered a program for fi rst- Nicklaus’s record. CBS started collecting that data. time off enders. “You know, I really haven’t The tournament, which is usu- In 2018, Woods began a pro- thought about that yet,” Woods ally broadcast in the afternoon, fessional comeback that culmi- said. “I’m sure that I’ll probably was rescheduled to the morning nated at Sunday’s Masters. After think of it going down the road. because of weather. his victory, Nike, which stood “Maybe, maybe not. Right CBS has the rights to the PGA behind Woods throughout his now, I’m just enjoying 15,” he Championship in May and ex- darker years, posted an ad on said. pects prices for advertising time its website titled “Tiger Woods: Nicklaus, however, believes that is still available to rise as a Same Dream.” the record is back in play, noting result of Woods’ Masters victory, “In sports you have heroes, that two of this year’s remaining according to a source familiar villains and underdogs,” said majors — the US Open and US with the matter. Benjamin Hordell, founder of PGA Championship — will be The golf demographic is digital marketing and advertising staged at courses where Woods wealthier and better-educated fi rm DXagency. “Tiger has lived has won before. than other sports fans, so TV all of it. That’s amazing from a “I thought for a long time that ratings are valued more highly storytelling perspective. People he was going to win again,” Nick- because they’re more apt to turn will root against him, but they’re laus told the Golf Channel. “The into sales, even of big-ticket watching.” next two majors are at Bethpage, items, said Neal Pilson, president On Monday, US President where he has won and at Pebble of Pilson Communications and Donald Trump said he would Beach, where he has won. former president of CBS Sports. award Woods the Presidential “So, he has got me shaking in “Historically, events where Medal of Freedom. my boots.” Brooks Koepka, the three- time major champion who fi n- and the demands majors put on from pain, he isn’t up to the ‘reps’ ished one shot adrift of Woods Punter earns $1.2mn from fi rst bet his own aging and often injured he favoured in his prime. on Sunday, also believes Nick- body. Assessing his impact on Although smarter training laus’s benchmark could be under New York: A Wisconsin man The 39-year-old told Golf the game on Sunday, Woods and better nutrition and physi- threat. who bet $85,000 on Tiger Digest that the 14-1 bet was his noted that attention to physi- cal therapy is helping older golf- “Eighteen is, I think, a lot clos- Woods to win the Masters was first sports wager. The stock- cal fi tness exploded in the sport ers compete for longer, Woods er than people think,” Koepka handed a check for $1.275mn broker, who works from home, thanks largely to him. admits that preparation and re- said. by bookmaker William Hill on said he planned to spend the “A lot of the guys are train- covery are as important for him “I would say that’s probably Monday. winnings on home improve- ing,” he said. “They are getting as practice. what all fans, what we’re think- A day after Woods came ments and paying off debts bigger, stronger, faster, more “It sucks hopping in those ing. That he’s defi nitely back and from behind to win his first while investing the rest. athletic. ice baths, but it’s just part of 18’s not far.” major title in 11 years, a video Reports said the net $1.19mn “They are recovering bet- the deal,” said Woods, who rose Woods had once seemed guar- circulating online showed payout was the largest for a ter. They are hitting the ball around 4am on Sunday to be anteed to surpass Nicklaus’s James Adducci picking up his single ticket golf bet in the prodigious distances, and a warmed up and ready for his 9:20 record, dominating the game check at SLS Las Vegas Hotel company’s history in the little bit of that’s probably at- fi nal round tee time at Augusta. from his fi rst Masters triumph & Casino. United States. tributed to what I did. When I He took the lead at the 15th in 1997 through to his 2008 US fi rst turned pro, I was the only hole and never gave it back — Open victory. one in the gym, except Vijay achieving one more fi rst in a Then came scandal and inju- The revamped global golf under total of 277 giving him a (Singh).” career stuff ed with records and ries, slumping form and nearly schedule may now assist Woods three-shot win over Phil Mick- Now, Woods quipped, even his fi rsts: his fi rst major triumph two years on the sidelines before on his quest for more major glory, elson. old rival Phil Mickelson — famed when not leading through 54 he was able to mount a come- with the PGA Championship, at The US Open in June will be for his love of fast-food burgers holes. Tiger Woods of the United States celebrates with the Masters back campaign that stepped up Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, held at Pebble Beach — where — is working out. “To witness that, a handful Trophy during the Green Jacket Ceremony after winning the in 2018. New York, moved up in the cal- Woods won by a stunning 15 “Things have come a long of years ago I don’t know a lot Masters at Augusta National Golf Club on April 14. Last year he went from endar to May 16-19. strokes in 2000. way,” Woods said. of people believed that Tiger strength to strength, contend- When Woods won the 2002 Doubts that Woods would But hours and hours of weight would win another major,” said ing in both the British Open and US Open held at Bethpage he was ever win another major, or even training and practice just aren’t Tony Finau, who played along- FOCUS PGA Championship before seiz- also coming off a Masters win another tournament, long cen- possible for Woods anymore. side Woods and Molinari. “From ing a breakthrough US PGA Tour that year. Woods was the only tered on two issues: the crowd After knee injuries and multi- what I saw today, obviously he’s title at the Tour Championship in player to fi nish under par on the of young, talented, super-fi t and ple back surgeries, the last a spi- not going anywhere anytime September. long, testing course, his three- long-hitting players he inspired nal fusion that fi nally freed him soon.” F1 in talks over

BOTTOMLINE second China GP, road race on cards

AFP “It would be a nice juxta- Shanghai position to the purpose-built, Rajesh Kamble wins India Cup extraordinary facility that we have here,” Bratches told AFP in ormula One is in talks with Shanghai. six local governments in “Our intent is to bring our China this week about show to the people.” Golf Tournament again Fholding a second Grand Bratches said Formula One Prix in the country, a senior F1 of- chiefs will this week embark on a ajesh Kamble, Counsel- fi cial told AFP, with a Beijing road visit to six potential host cities in lor at the Indian Embas- race said to have been fl oated. China. “There’s meetings set up sy in Qatar, played fl aw- A second Grand Prix — most in each with government offi cials Rless golf to defend his likely on the streets — would to talk about identifying a second title in the third India Cup Golf complement the existing one on city to host a grand prix,” Bratches Tournament organised by Indian the $450mn Shanghai Interna- said. Sports Centre (ISC) at the Doha tional Circuit. “We think there’s an opportu- Golf Club over the weekend. No country currently has two nity to grow from that perspec- The competition attracted 40 Formula One races, although tive.” golfers from the Indian commu- F1 offi cials are negotiating for a Liberty Media, which took nity including India’s Ambas- second Grand Prix in the United over Formula One in early 2017 sador to Qatar P Kumaran. The States.Formula One’s landmark in a multibillion-dollar deal, is event was sponsored by Moaedat 1,000th race took place in Shang- wants to have more street races, and Home R Us and supported by hai on Sunday, underlining Chi- believing that is the best way Abu Issa Holding, Radisson Blu na’s growing role as the sport’s to attract new fans. Next year, and Kababs and Kurries. US-based owner looks to Asia. the bustling Vietnamese capi- ISC hosted an awards ceremo- A source with knowledge of the tal Hanoi will host an F1 road ny and dinner for all golfers and matter told AFP that a race on the race, while on Saturday crowds guests. Ambassador Kumaran streets of the Chinese capital Bei- watched China’s Zhou Guanyu was the chief guest at the func- jing has been raised as one idea. drive a Formula One car in cen- tion. Nilangshu Dey, President of Sean Bratches, Formula One’s tral Shanghai. ISC and Habib un Nabi General managing director of commercial “If you want to elevate the Secretary of ISC also attended Indian ambassador P Kumaran (third from left, sitting), winner Rajesh Kamble (second from left, sitting) and other off icials and players pose operations, did not confi rm or brand to the casual fan and the the function. after the event. deny the road-race plan for Bei- non-fan to move them up the lad- Cherehzade Pedder was de- jing when approached by AFP. der to become avids, you’re go- clared the runner-up while Yo- ly in the ‘best gross’ category. In nath won the fi rst prize and the second prize. Arnav Jain won the won the ‘closest to rope’ and “In terms of interest, we would ing to need to... demonstrate and hann Pedder and Arnav Jain won the scramble format, the duo of father and son team of Subash ‘longest drive’, D Anand won the Manoj Megchiani won the ‘long- be highly interested in a street show to them what this sport is the fi rst second prize respective- Manoj Megchiani / PK Viswa- and Akshay Randeva won the ‘closest to pin’, PK Viswanath est putt’ prizes. race,” he said. about,” Bratches said.

Wednesday, April 17, 2019 GULF TIMES SPORT

LOCAL SPORT Five SOP fi nals set for tomorrow

By Sports Reporter house, saying invitations have Doha also been sent to dignitaries. “We are set to make it a big event. The invitation has been he School Olympic extended to everyone, includ- Program (SOP) is brac- ing the Ministry of Education ing for a thrilling fi n- and Higher Education, and the Tish, with boys’ teams Qatar Olympic Committee. We gearing up to vie for top honours have also invited a delegation of in fi ve disciplines at state-of- Unessco in Doha to attend the the-art Aspire Dome tomorrow. fi nals and learn about the expe- The details of event were re- rience of the Olympic Program,” vealed by Secretary-General of said al-Hitmi. Qatar Sports Federation (QSF) Meanwhile, al-Muftah said Ali al-Hitmi at a press confer- the SOP provides a very good ence at Al Bidda Tower. Abdul- opportunity to students to rahman al-Muftah, Executive show their skills. Al Rayyan players and off icials pose with the Amir Cup basketball trophy at the Al Gharafa Sports Club yesterday. At bottom, Al Rayyan players hoist coach Erik T Rashad as Director of QSF, and Dr Salah “This SOP is a huge advan- they celebrate their win. Salem, QSL Technical Expert tage for schoolchildren. It gives were also present. them a platform to show their Al-Hitmi said that the boys talent,” he said. BASKETBALL teams will fi ght for titles of “We will leave no stone un- football, basketball, volleyball, turned in making the fi nals gymnastics and tennis during a huge success. The SOP has tomorrow’s fi nals. achieved a lot of success. This “Our preparations are on year we saw more participants track and we are looking forward and the level of competition has to provide best facilities to the also raised,” he added. competing teams. We wish suc- Al-Muftah also thanked As- cess to all the competing stu- pire for their support in holding Lenny the hero dents,” al-Hitmi told the press the event. conference. “Aspire Academy is one of the “We will be back at Aspire most important sports institu- Dome for the fi nals. We want to tions in the country. It contrib- thank Aspire for their coopera- utes to the discovery of talent. tion which is playing a key role It is not only that as it always in success of the Olympic Pro- raises a slogan that actually ap- gram,” said peared today as a dream and a as Al Rayyan al-Hitmi. star tomorrow, and Aspire has He pointed out that (SOP) is presented us with many stars in one of the successful programs various games,” he said. that serves sports in general and On his part, Dr Salem said school sports in particular. Aspire plays an important role “The Olympic Program has in the success of the fi nals. huge importance and it receives “We are very fortunate to great attention from the offi cials partner with Aspire, where the claim Amir Cup of the Qatar Olympic Commit- Academy’s excellent facilities tee under the chairmanship of and good playgrounds help stu- His Excellency Sheikh Joaan dents to off er their best levels,” bin Hamad al-Thani. One of he said. the important objectives of the “Aspire Academy has many programme is to establish the scouts who contribute to the principle of sport for all,” he discovery of talent in various said. games and the work of diff erent Al-Hitmi said the organising federations, which is important committee was expecting a full for the programme,” he added.

By Sports Reporter with a 60% success rate in fi eld goals at- second period, although a whopping tafa Fouda had 16 and Faisal Abuissa and Doha tempted. 24-point eff ort by Al Sadd brought them Devin Green 14 each. Al Rayyan trailed Al Sadd by two back into the game. Al Sadd scored 19 points from turno- points (62-64) going into the fi nal quar- But a solid defensive performance by vers while Al Rayyan just had fi ve. How- enny McArthur Daniel came up ter, but produced an 18-point eff ort in Al Rayyan eventually helped them clinch ever, Al Rayyan excelled with 14 second with decisive points in the fi nal the fi nal 10 minutes while Al Sadd could the prestigious Cup. chance points. two minutes of play as Al Rayyan only muster 13. Tanguy Ngombo was the second- In the end they led for 23 minutes of Ledged out Al Sadd 80-77 to win The match began at a cracking pace but highest scorer for Al Rayyan with 14 the action which stood them in good the Amir Cup basketball tournament at there was precious little that separated points while Abdelrahman Abdelhaleem stead. the Al Gharafa Sports Club last night. the teams in the opening 10-minute pe- and Mohamed Hassan Mohamed had 12 “It was a tough game but I congratu- In an entertaining fi nal which saw the riod during which they scored 19 points each. late my players for pulling off an excel- lead changing nine times, Daniel was de- apiece. For Al Sadd, Dominic Devon James ex- lent victory,” Al Rayyan coach Erik T servedly the top-scorer with 23 points Al Rayyan took a 45-40 lead after the celled with 18 points, while captain Mus- Rashad said. Secretary-General of Qatar Sports Federation Ali al-Hitmi.

BOTTOMLINE AAB Chess Open: Building a new generation of players in Qatar The “Best Qatari Male” prize was In the three editions of the AAB bdullah Abdulghani & Bros won by Lari Mansour while WCM Chess Open, more than half of the Co WLL (AAB), exclusive Kholoud al-Khelaifi received the “Best non-rated players belong to the Un- distributor of Toyota and Qatari Female” prize. Part of their der-12 category. This is indicative of ALexus in Qatar, held the AAB prizes included a weekend drive with the continued fl ourishing of chess Chess Open’s third edition in collabo- Lexus GS350 and RX 350 respectively. across the county. Through the AAB ration with Qatar Chess Association Meanwhile, Abdullah Mohammed al- Chess Open, a new generation of FIDE (QCA). Humaid won the “Best Qatari Under Rated Chess players in Qatar is being The World Chess Federation (FIDE) 16” award. moulded. rated tournament elicited tremendous The Overall Champion received a Ahmad Abu Saad, Senior Manager response from the chess community. trophy, cash prize and a weekend drive – Lexus National Sales led the AAB Organised to nurture and sustain the of the Lexus ES350. management team during the con- interest and passion of chess enthusi- “This year the tournament was cluding ceremony. Omar al-Marri, asts in the community, the tournament tougher with an increased number of board member of Qatar Chess Asso- paved the way for the rated players to young players who are well-trained ciation, GM Zhu Chen, FIDE Treas- improve their world ratings and for the by the Qatar Chess Association par- urer and GM Victor Bologan, FIDE non-rated players to be rated on an in- ticipating,” FM Boidiya Sidi, the cham- Executive Director, were also present ternational level. pion, said. on the occasion. The tournament was played over fi ve The AAB Chess Open is a CSR ini- rounds Swiss System with 60 min + 30 tiative geared towards developing the The winners: sec/move timing for the whole game. The winners pose with AAB and Qatar chess off icials after the event. community through sports. It has 1st Place FM Boidiya Sidi (MTN) Special prizes were given to the best created a meaningful impact on the 2nd Place Hassan Abdelmunim (PHL) players in several categories. New win- and “Best Unrated Overall and Demol- dem of Florian and Yuri de Joya garnered consecutive edition. They were given the lives of the young chess enthusiasts as 3rd Place Rolenson Loyola (PHL) ning categories were introduced dur- isher Prize”. the highest combined score and was opportunity to a Weekend Drive of the well as adult players who are given the 4th Place Abedin Zainal (BAN) ing this edition, notably “Best Game” Meanwhile, the father and son tan- awarded as “Best Family” for the third all-new Toyota Rav4 Hybrid vehicle. chance to get world rated. 5th Place Ryan Mendoza (PHL)