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Friday, June 14, 2019 CRICKET Shawwal 11, 1440 AH Archer will take GULF TIMES Windies clash in his stride, says Morgan SPORT Page 2

FOCUS Piracy issue puts Saudi’s Italian Super Cup plans in trouble almost two years. De Siervo said yesterday: Saudi Arabia. By Anthony Harwood Serie A is next to beIN London But the Doha-based channel “Serie A is next to beIN Sports The piracy has now spread so is threatening to re-evaluate how Sports against BeoutQ against BeoutQ in the fi ght far and wide that it is the subject much it pays for TV rights across in the fi ght against against piracy. For Serie A this is of a lawsuit at the World Trade audi Arabia’s plans to host the Middle East and North Africa ‘ piracy. For Serie A this a fundamental area, from which Organisation, and been attacked the next ‘Supercoppa’ are (Mena) region because so many is a fundamental area, about a third of international TV by the BBC and Sky over illegal in danger after Serie A people are able to watch pirated from which about a third rights arrive. broadcasts across Europe. took legal action over the content for free. of international TV rights “We have already taken legal beIN CEO, Yousef al-Obaidly, desertS kingdom’s rampant TV De Siervo’s predecessor, arrive action. We will start shortly was furious with Serie A when piracy. Marco Brunelli, signed a €7mn — Luigi De Siervo, to make a strong campaign to- the deal between Serie A and Luigi De Siervo, the new boss (USD8mn) deal with Saudi Ara- Italian Serie A CEO wards our government and Saudi Arabia was originally an- of the top Italian league, said il- bia for the Supercoppa – played other governments to bring the nounced. legal transmissions by the rogue between the winners of the Ital- BeoutQ phenomenon to total He said: “Among all the coun- channel called BeoutQ were ian League and the country’s cup tar channel had paid for, but reduction.” tries in the world that you could putting at risk a third of its inter- competition — to be held in Jed- also from human rights cam- BeoutQ was launched follow- have chosen to host your race, national TV rights, worth about dah twice over four years. paigners who were up in arms as ing a Riyadh-led diplomatic and you have chosen the only coun- $500mn. The decision to go ahead with the Juventus-AC Milan fi xture A video grab of the rogue BeoutQ transmission of the Juventus vs trade boycott of the Qatar which try that supports the theft even The Riyadh-based station has the fi rst fi xture in January was came three months after the Fiorentina Italian Super Cup match in April this year. meant that sporting events such of your contents on an industrial been pirating on an industrial not only met with opposition Saudi murder of journalist Jamal as the FIFA World Cup, Cham- scale. I ask if it is appropriate to scale the output of beIN Sports, from beIN Sports, over BeoutQ’s Khashoggi. that women fans would not be accompanied, as is the custom in pions League, Premier League proceed with the Super Cup which is based in rival Qatar, for piracy of Serie A which the Qa- Politicians also complained allowed to attend the match un- Saudi Arabia. and Serie A were not available in match in Jeddah.”

CYCLING Surgery successful, Froome should be back racing in six ‘One of the things which sets Chris apart is his mental strength and resilience — and months: surgeon we will support him totally in his recovery’

AFP Saint-Etienne, France

our-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome has undergone a success- ful four-hour operation followingF a devastating crash and could be back racing in six months, his surgeon said yester- day. Froome was airlifted to hospi- tal in Saint-Etienne for emergen- cy surgery after slamming into a wall at high speed during prac- tice on Wednesday ahead of the fourth stage of the Criterium du Dauphine race in central France. The force of the impact frac- tured his pelvis, right femur, and left him with broken ribs and a broken right elbow. “The operation was long, al- most four hours, but it went very, very well,” said Remi Philippot, chief surgeon for sports trauma at Saint-Etienne hospital. Team Ineos’ doctor Richard Rescue workers are seen through a window as they transport Team Ineos rider Christopher Froome of Usher echoed Philippot’s com- Great Britain on a stretcher upon arrival at the Centre Hospitalier in Roanne, France. (AFP) ments through a statement is- sued by the outfi t owned by Brit- care for 48 hours before being “We have had a look at his Tour de France director Chris- ish billionaire Jim Ratcliff e. authorised to move to a unit spe- data, he went from 54km/h to a tian Prudhomme said Froome’s “First things fi rst, the surgery cialising in rehabilitation. dead stop,” Brailsford said. absence was a blow to the 2019 was a success. The operation The accident happened in the edition of cycling’s biggest stage went very well,” he said. DEAD STOP village of Saint-Andre d’Apchon. race. “The Tour de France won’t “Chris will remain in hospital Froome’s Ineos team principal Froome had taken his hands off be the same without him. Chris for the next few days for obser- Dave Brailsford said his star rider the handlebars in order to blow Froome has been the central vation, but he is already actively had the mental force needed in the his nose “and the wind’s taken character at the Tour since 2013,” engaging in discussing his reha- battle for recovery that lay ahead. his front wheel and he’s hit a he said. bilitation options, which is very “One of the things which sets wall,” Brailsford added. Froome had started the year in encouraging,” Usher added. Chris apart is his mental strength Following treatment at the low-key form. He trailed in 91st Froome received further and resilience — and we will sup- scene Froome was airlifted to in the Tour of Colombia, 94th at positive news as he stands to be port him totally in his recovery, intensive care at Saint-Etienne the Tour of Catalonia, 11th in the handed the 2011 Vuelta a Espana help him to recalibrate and assist hospital. Tour of the Alps and 13th at the title after original winner Juan him in pursuing his future goals Froome’s wife Michelle Cound Tour de Yorkshire. Cobo was found guilty of an anti- and ambitions.” tweeted that she was on her way The Kenyan-born Froome, doping rule violation and could The team will nevertheless be to join him there and asked fans to who at his best combines top be stripped of victory, the In- Team Ineos rider Christopher Froome of Great Britain rides during the third stage of the 71st edition of the without their key rider for the keep the rider “in your thoughts.” level time-trialling skills with a ternational Cycling Union (UCI) Criterium du Dauphine on Tuesday. (AFP) Tour de France next month after Brailsford said Froome had fearsome prowess for climbing, said. the horror crash which happened worked “incredibly hard to get in fi rst won the Tour in 2013 with Philippot said the good news 50km/h, with very little body bouncing back. compound fracture to the femur on a downhill stretch of road in fantastic shape and had been on Team Sky. was the high-impact crash had protection, causing a high- “He started asking immedi- while Giorgio Gesta, an ortho- the Loire region. track for the Tour” which starts He went on to win the Tour de caused no neurological or head energy impact,” said Philippot, ately when he could get back on paedic surgeon and former Ital- Froome was riding with Dutch on July 6 from Brussels. France again in 2015, 2016 and trauma and he expected Froome who spoke to Froome yesterday his bike. He should be back rac- ian hockey international, worked teammate Wout Poels when The Criterium du Dauphine 2017. He also won the 2017 Vuelta would be back in the saddle in six morning for one hour. ing in about six months,” said on fractures to the right elbow. he lost control of his bike and represents a full dress rehearsal and the 2018 Giro d’Italia, mak- months. “Chris Froome has the morale Philippot. Philippot said the 34-year-old slammed into the wall of a house and Froome was doing well, in ing him the greatest Grand Tour “The impact was at around of a winner and is very rapidly He personally operated on the Briton would remain in intensive at full speed. eighth spot before the crash. rider of his generation. Gulf Times 2 Friday, June 14, 2019 CRICKET WORLD CUP

FOCUS Archer will take Windies clash in his stride: Morgan Barbados-born Archer, whose father is English, was cleared to play for England under new eligibility rules

Reuters London SPOTLIGHT

ngland captain Eoin Morgan is relieved to Bayliss will have to live with the have fast bowler Jofra Archer at his disposal for today’sE World Cup clash against ‘Sheldon Salute’, says Holder West Indies rather than having to face his pace. Reuters The Barbados-born 24-year- Southampton, England old, whose father is English, was cleared to play for England under new eligibility rules which meant est Indies bowler he needed three years residency, Sheldon Cottrell may rather then seven. Whave a special salute He has grabbed his opportuni- for England coach Trevor ty with both hands, taking three Bayliss when the two sides meet wickets for 27 runs in England’s in the World Cup today, but opening World Cup win over Jofra Archer could rain on that South Africa and then took an- particular parade. other three-wicket haul against Archer, the young Barbados- Bangladesh, having gone wicket- born fast bowler now delivering less in the loss to Pakistan. for England after playing for Archer once played for West West Indies under-19s, brings Indies under-19s so there is likely plenty of spice to the eagerly- to be some extra edge when he waited encounter at Southamp- runs in against them at South- ton’s Rose Bowl. ampton’s Rose Bowl today. The match will be his first “It is great that he’s in an Eng- against the country he was land shirt at the moment,” Mor- also eligible to play for and one gan told a news conference. that will give West Indies fans “Jofra’s been very consistent plenty of time to appreciate a over a long period of time since talent that slipped through their he came to Sussex.” fingers. Asked if it might be distract- Cottrell, whose flamboyant ing playing against some of his wicket-taking celebration former West Indies colleagues, involves a short march, stand to In this May 31, 2019, picture, West Indies’ Sheldon Cottrell celebrates Morgan recalled his own experi- attention and salute to the pavil- taking the wicket of Pakistan’s Imam-ul-Haq during the ICC Cricket ences having switched allegiance ion, will meanwhile be doing his World Cup match in Nottingham, United Kingdom. (Reuters) to England from Ireland. best to get on Bayliss’s nerves. “He won’t know how it will The 56-year-old Australian told scale but Holder was keen to good talent.” feel until he plays the game to- reporters on Wednesday that put the match into perspective. The match, he emphasised, was morrow,” Morgan said. “I think the ‘Sheldon Salute’ was enough “It’s something that has been against England, the pre-tour- being in that position myself it to annoy anyone over the age talked up in the press, in the nament favourites, and not just does feel diff erent the fi rst time of 40 and himself in particular. media, and we are looking for- about one man. you play against a side that either West Indies captain Jason ward to the challenge against Holder said the final team selec- you could have potentially played Holder was asked yesterday England,” he said. tion would be made on Friday, for or played for. whether Cottrell had “a nice, “I have seen Jofra over the with all-rounder Andre Russell “But I’m sure he will handle it special salute” lined up for years. He is obviously a Barba- recovering well from a knee like he’s handled everything else In this June 8, 2019, picture, England’s Jofra Archer celebrates taking the wicket of Bangladesh’s Soumya Bayliss, and he smiled. dian. He’s grown up in Barbados injury after being left out of the so far. Every challenge he’s come Sarkar during the ICC World Cup match in Cardiff . (Reuters) “I don’t think it will change, playing cricket so what I’m see- rain-abandoned match with up against so far he’s come out that’s just Sheldon. I guess ing of Jofra doesn’t surprise me. South Africa. the other side really well. So let’s leading the wicket-taking charts a swollen ankle, Archer’s pace came back at the end of the in- Trevor will just have learn to He is one of those guys who has “He is just one of those guys see how it goes. with 10, including fi ve against will be key for England. nings to take those wickets. accept it,” he replied. always had ability and talent,” where we give him as much “We are not expecting any- Australia on Wednesday. “You need one, if not two “Even when you go back to Watching the West Indies bats- added the captain. time as he possibly needs, so it thing majorly diff erent.” Australian speedsters Mitchell (quick bowlers),” Morgan said. games that we played in the win- men smashing Archer’s deliver- “It is just unfortunate how all boils down to how he wakes Quality fast bowling has been Starc and Pat Cummins are joint “Even the game yesterday, Aus- ter, big games, the big contribu- ies to the boundary might rank things went in terms of his up tomorrow morning and a feature of the tournament so far second with nine apiece. tralia against Pakistan. The big tions all had to do with the fast even higher on the satisfaction decision-making but he is a feels,” said the captain. with Pakistan’s Mohamed Amir With Mark Wood a doubt with impact was when (Mitchell) Starc bowlers.”

BOTTOMLINE COMMENT Unbeaten India and New Zealand split Garner backs Windies to go points aft er Trent Bridge washout all the way

Agencies Reuters Nottingham, United Kingdom Nottingham, England

nclement English weather ormer West Indies fast bowler Joel Gar- claimed yet another World Cup ner has said the current side stand a match after India’s group game decent chance of winning the Cricket against 2015 fi nalists New Zea- World Cup — 40 years since he helped Iland was called off without a ball be- themF last lift the trophy with a record fi ve- ing bowled at Trent Bridge yesterday. wicket haul in the fi nal. A soggy outfi eld from overnight Jason Holder’s Windies side have had a mixed showers had already delayed the start start to their campaign, crushing Pakistan in of the contest between the tourna- their opening match before losing to Australia ment’s only two unbeaten sides. and then seeing their game with South Africa Umpires Marais Erasmus and Paul abandoned. Reiff el carried out almost hourly in- They face hosts and pre-tournament favour- spections in intermittent drizzle be- ites England in Southampton today. fore fi nally throwing in the towel in “If we play the kind of cricket that we are ex- the afternoon. pected to play, which is consistent cricket, we This was the fourth match to be will get to the fi nal,” the 6’8”-tall (2.03m) Gar- either called off or abandoned in the ner, nicknamed Big Bird in his playing days, told rain-hit tournament with many ques- Metro.co.uk. tioning the absence of reserve days for “And then there’s nothing stopping us from group matches. winning the fi nal. But you cannot depend on “Sensible decision to not play, giv- one or two players to get you there. en the outfi eld wasn’t fully fi t,” India “I’m a West Indian, so of course I want to see captain Virat Kohli said. them win. But it could be any of the top teams. “One point not a bad thing for When it gets to the semi-fi nals — that’s when sides that have won all their games the dog fi ght will really begin.” so far. So we’ll take it.” New Zealand’s James Neesham throws his gloves to the fans during a rain India’s head coach Ravi Shastri displays MS Dhoni’s shirt to their fans during “Jason Holder has worked hard and he’s New Zealand top the table with delay in the ICC Cricket World Cup match against India at Trent Bridge in Not- a rain delay in the match against New Zealand at Trent Bridge in Nottingham, turning out to be a good leader,” Garner added. seven points, two ahead of India who tingham, United Kingdom, yesterday. (Reuters) United Kingdom, yesterday. (Reuters) “I’d be delighted to see him lift the trophy be- have played one game fewer. cause it’s been a long time since we won the Having won their previous three know every time we play them, they’re a couple of weeks, we’ll assess and has made that fairly well known,” teams and you’re going to have beat World Cup.” games, Kiwi skipper Kane William- extremely competitive, but we have a see,” Kohli said. Stead told reporters. those teams,” he said. However, Garner was reluctant to give his son was not too worried and wel- few days to refresh and come back.” “Hopefully he’ll be available for “Unfortunately it’s a bit of an “It’s too early in the tournament forecast for today’s game against England. comed the gap before facing South The hostile weather denied In- the later half and the semi-fi nals. anomaly the amount of days we have to know if this (abandoned match) “I’m not even going to predict that one. I just Africa on Wednesday. dia an opportunity to trial their new He’s motivated, we wanted to keep lost to rain — the biggest amount of is going to be infl uential or not in hope we get 100 overs in and see some good “We’ve been about four days and we opening pair with KL Rahul, replac- him back.” days lost in World Cups ever. the long run. We know we still have cricket,” he said. haven’t seen the sun, so this doesn’t ing the injured Shikhar Dhawan, “It’s a bit of bad luck. It can rain to play good cricket against all the Three World Cup matches have had to be surprise us. It’s not ideal, but little bit joining Rohit Sharma at the top of NO ADVANTAGE anywhere in the world. My fi rst tour teams we come up against,” Stead scrapped so far due to rain, and India’s game of time off is also important,” William- the order. New Zealand head coach Gary Stead was in Dubai and it rained in the said. against New Zealand at Trent Bridge yesterday son said. Dhawan, who was hit by a Pat said it was unfortunate for tourna- desert.” “We would have loved to have looked likely to become the fourth fi xture lost to “We have some break now midway Cummins bouncer during his match- ment organisers to lose four games Stead said he saw no advantage in played India today. They’re obvious- bad weather. through, so it’s a good chance for the winning century against Australia at to rain out of just 18 matches so far in the match being abandoned. ly going hot, and we feel as though Garner’s fi ve-for-38 in the 1979 World Cup guys to freshen up and look forward the Oval, is likely to miss India’s next the round-robin event. “If you want to go through and we’re playing reasonably well as well, fi nal against England remains the best-ever to the next challenge. three games. “Reserve days are going to be a lo- play a semi-fi nal or make the fi nal, so it would have been a really nice bowling performance in the last game of the “South Africa is a very good side, we “Shikhar will be in a plaster for gistical nightmare, probably the ICC you’re going to have to play all the match-up,” Stead said. tournament. Gulf Times Friday, June 14, 2019 3 CRICKET WORLD CUP

FOCUS REVIEW Australia ‘need to Imam-ul-Haq expects learn lessons’ from Pakistan fi ghtback

AFP stan, removing Fakhar Zaman, Taunton, United Kingdom and then made another impor- tant breakthrough when he had ‘huge-pressure game’ Imam-ul-Haq caught behind for ustralia fast bowler Pat 53. Cummins said Paki- But what pleases the fast ‘It’s in Manchester, lots of stan’s late rally with the bowler most about his current bat was a timely warn- form in one-day internation- Pakistani fans there — so I’m ingA for the defending champions als is the increasing number of really excited about it’ even though his side returned to dot balls — deliveries off which against India winning ways at the World Cup. no runs are scored — that he is Aaron Finch’s side won by 41 sending down. AFP runs at Taunton on Wednesday “That’s the big improvement Taunton, United Kingdom as they recorded their third win in my game in the last couple of of the campaign in England and years, the ability to hold a length Wales following their defeat to and make it diffi cult to get runs,” akistan’s Imam-ul-Haq India. Cummins explained. said this weekend’s 14 - 06 - 2019 Australia reduced Pakistan to “If you give away easy sin- “huge-pressure” World 200-7 chasing a target of 308, gles then 300 becomes quite an Cup game against arch- with Cummins taking an eco- achievable score. Cutting out the Privals India was a must-win nomical 3-33 from his 10 overs. singles is huge, it means if you clash for his side after their de- But an eighth-wicket stand give away a boundary it might feat by Australia. of 64 between Pakistan captain not be that big over of 10 or 11, it Wednesday’ 41-run loss to the Sarfaraz Ahmed and Wahab Riaz, may just be a fi ve or a six.” reigning champions in Taunton who hit a rapid 45, provided Aus- David Warner had earlier left Pakistan eighth in the 10- tralia with some worrying mo- scored his fi rst international team table and with plenty to do ments before a late collapse saw century since completing a year- if they are to qualify for the top the fi nal three wickets fall for just long ban for his part in a ball- four, who will contest the semi- two runs. tampering scandal. fi nals. “It goes to show that everyone Warner had been uncharacter- Asked if the reverse at Som- can bat these days,” said Cum- istically sluggish in scoring 56 off erset’s headquarters meant mins. “It was a bit closer than we 84 balls against India at the Oval Sunday’s match at Old Traff ord would have liked, so it was good but he was back to his fl uent best was now one Pakistan simply to get those couple of wickets against Pakistan, facing just 111 had to win, Imam replied: “Yes, and fi nish it off . balls in total. we’ve had one game rained off , “We gave them a bit too much “We were so pumped for him, which was very important for width and suddenly they were he was really open and honest us — every game now is very im- back in the game,” the 26-year- after the Oval game,” said Cum- portant for us, so yes you can say old added. “It’s a good lesson to mins. “He was playing more tim- that.” learn.” idly than normal but we saw his “Obviously, to be part of that New South Wales quick Cum- mindset change from the start kind of game, it’s great. It’s in mins struck early against Paki- here.” Manchester, lots of Pakistani fans there — so I’m really excit- ed about it. It’s a huge pressure game, obviously. “Pakistan and India, there’s a lot of mysteries behind that but we want to just focus on our cricket strengths and how we can get better.” Set a target of 308 to beat Australia, Pakistan were go- ing well while Imam was at the 30), it was then my responsibil- crease making 53. ity and I was going well but it But he fell in tame fashion, was not a good ball that got me gloving a leg-side ball from out, the same as I did against Pat Cummins he could have the West Indies,” added the left alone to wicketkeeper Alex left-hander, the nephew of Pa- Carey. kistan great and selection chief So disappointed was Imam, Inzamam-ul-Haq. he could barely drag himself “I knew I’d spent a hell of a lot from the crease before trudging of time on a tricky wicket so I back towards the pavilion. knew it wouldn’t be easy for any Pakistan continued to lose new batsman to come in. So it wickets steadily and, despite was a huge disappointment. a late fl urry of runs from the “If I’ve scored 30 in a winning eighth-wicket pair of captain side, that would be great, I’d be Sarfaraz Ahmed and Wahab very happy. Riaz, were bowled out for 266. “As a pro, if you’re winning Pakistan’s captain Sarfaraz Ahmed plays a shot during the 2019 “Obviously, I’m playing well, matches for your country, that’s ICC Cricket World Cup match against Australia in Taunton, United and this team depends on me the best thing and if you’re not, Kingdom, on Wednesday. (AFP) and Babar (Azam),” said Imam. even if you score a fi fty, that’s a Pakistan’s Imam-ul-Haq (also above) in action during the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup match against “When Babar got out (for huge disappointment.” Australia in Taunton, United Kingdom, on Wednesday. (Reuters) Cricket chiefs deny TV SPOTLIGHT ‘gagging’ order AFP takes,” he said. Nottingham, United Kingdom Bevan added: “It’s critical for us that we should never am- Captain Sarfaraz urges Pakistan plify umpires’ mistakes by giv- nternational cricket chiefs ing airtime to those incidents say they do not want to gag nor show the umpires in bad Icommentators after West light. We should also be very Indies great Michael Holding careful not to look to create to improve fi elding against India hit out at “censorship” fol- controversy around an event lowing on-air comments that or match at any time.” Reuters were critical of the standard of But Holding wrote a strong London India out to make fi elding umpiring at the World Cup. reply to the ICC, the Times of The former pace bowler, India reported. superiority count a high-profile TV analyst, “Commentators are being akistan must im- labelled the off iciating in the more and more compromised prove their fi elding if Reuters who fielded for injured match between West Indies by controlling organisations they are to beat India Nottingham, United Kingdom Shikhar Dhawan at the Oval, and Australia at Trent Bridge to the point of censorship,” in their crunch World are versatile enough to field on June 6, as “atrocious”. he said. PCup match on Sunday, captain anywhere. Holding criticised umpires “If those umpires yesterday Sarfaraz Ahmed said after the ndia’s fielders have been All-rounder Hardik Pandya Ruchira Palliyaguruge and were FIFA off icials, they would team’s 41-run loss to Australia razor-sharp in their open- is also supremely athletic Chris Gaff aney in the group have been told to pack their in Taunton. Iing World Cup games but but Sridhar was particularly game in Nottingham for cav- bags and head home,” he Pakistan conceded over- fielding coach R Sridhar said happy with the commit- ing in to pressure created by added. “They would not have throws against Australia and yesterday that they cannot ment of quick bowler Jasprit constant appealing by the Aus- been given another World Cup were punished by Aaron Finch, aff ord a drop in their intensity Bumrah, who threw himself tralians, who won the match game to off iciate. who was dropped by Asif Ali at against arch-rivals Pakistan around even after bowling by 15 runs. “As a former cricketer, I think slip when he was on 33. on Sunday. long spells. Chris Gayle was out to what cricket should be held to a The Australian skipper went “Fielding, I’d say, is vital in The only improvement Srid- should technically have been higher standard. Is the objec- on to score 82 and built a 146- every match,” Sridhar told har has targeted is greater a free hit after Mitchell Starc tive to protect the umpires run opening stand with centu- reporters at Trent Bridge after accuracy with direct throws. overstepped the crease on the even when they do a bad job?” rion David Warner to allow the India’s match against New “It is something which I have previous ball, which was not “I am sorry, but I am not going champions to post a competitive Zealand was washed out. my eye on as well, and we spotted by the umpire. to be part of that,” he said. total of 307. “We saw that at the Oval practise a lot for that,” he West Indies skipper Jason “Please let me know if I should “When two good teams play on Sunday when we played said. Holder was also at the receiving be heading back to my home each other, the fi elding can make Australia. Although we had “I’d say hitting, whether it’s an end of an umpiring blunder in Newmarket instead of a diff erence and we conceded a big total on the board, we run-out or not, one in three or after being adjudged lbw off heading to Cardiff because I runs due to lapses in fi elding,” had to field out of our skins to four throws is a good conver- Adam Zampa but replays don’t agree with what is being Sarfaraz told reporters. “If you defend the total. sion rate. suggested the ball had pitched suggested here and happy not want to beat the big teams we “I think we should look to “In my opinion, if you’re hit- outside leg stump. The decision being part of it.” can’t make such mistakes. Aaron Finch (right) was dropped by Pakistan’s Asif Ali at slip when out-field opponents, not only ting one out of four, you’re was overturned on review. But an ICC spokesman told “Our fi elding is not up to the he was on 33. The Australian captain went on to score 82 and built a in the next game, but also in doing a good job as a direct According to the Times of AFP the matter was now mark and we will work hard on 146-run opening stand with centurion David Warner (left) in the all games, and we expect our unit, but we failed to do that India, Huw Bevan, the produc- closed. that before the India match. In- match in Taunton, United Kingdom, on Wednesday. (AFP) opponents to do the same. in the last game. tion head for the International “We only want them (commen- dia are a strong team and if you We should go out there with “We had over 10 strikes, and Cricket Council’s (ICC’s) rights tators) to be fair. We have got continue to make the same mis- “We made good starts but always run high. our best intensity.” we hit only once. In some partner Sunset and Vine, wrote the best experience on board takes then you won’t get an op- didn’t build partnerships,” Sar- Imam, who scored 53 against India have a safe slip catcher days we hit three out of five. an email to Holding on June 7. to provide quality to the view- portunity to win the match.” faraz added. “The fi rst few wick- Australia, said he was looking for- in Rohit Sharma, while It’s about practice and that is “Inherently in live television, ers. And we in no way want to At 136-2, Pakistan appeared ets were soft dismissals after the ward to playing in front of what is skipper Virat Kohli and all- one area we work hard on in there are occasions when on- gag anybody on their views,” well set to chase down their batsmen got set... We lost three expected to be a capacity crowd. rounder Ravindra Jadeja, every session.” field decisions cause reason an ICC source said. target midway through their wickets in 15 balls and that was “Obviously to be part of that for discussion or debate, but “The matter with Holding has innings but soon lost Imam- the turning point in the match.” kind of game, it’s great,” Imam as ICC TV host broadcasters, been settled and there are no ul-Haq, Mohamed Hafeez and Pakistan play arch-rivals In- said. “It’s in Manchester, lots of “It’s a huge pressure game. want to just focus on our cricket our (Sunset & Vine) duty is not hard feelings between the ICC Shoaib Malik in the span of three dia next at Old Traff ord on Sun- Pakistani fans there, so I’m re- Pakistan and India, there’s a lot strengths and how we can get to judge or highlight mis- and Mr Holding.” overs to be reduced to 147-5. day in a fi xture where tensions ally excited about it. of mysteries behind that but we better.” Gulf Times 4 Friday, June 14, 2019 SPORT

RUGBY CYC LING Van Aert clinches back to back Leitch says Japan Dauphine stage win can make history at World Cup ‘If I was smart I would have retired then and there and gone into the Hall of Fame’

Team Jumbo-Vismarider Belgium’s Wout van Aert celebrates as he crosses the finish line at the end of the fifth stage of the 71st edition of the Criterium du Dauphine cycling race in Voiron yesterday.

AFP general leaderboard. Voiron, France Three-time winner Chris Froome was ruled out of the race as well as this year’s Tour de out van Aert won a France after a high-speed crash second successive on Wednesday and had surgery stage of the Crite- on fractures to his thigh bone, rium du Dauphine pelvis, ribs and elbow in a French Wyesterday with victory on day fi ve hospital. The late breakaway trio as Britain’s Adam Yates remained of Italy’s Alessandro De Marchi in the leader’s yellow jersey. and France’s Stephane Rossetto Jumbo Visma’s van Aert, and Yoann Bagot were caught by wearing the green shirt as he sits the chasing pack with less than a on top of points leaderboard, kilometre to go. repeated his success in Wednes- The front of the race, which day’s individual time trial after the three had dominated from 201km of racing that fi nished in the 170km-mark, had originally Japan rugby national team’s the town of Voiron at the foot of held a lead of 2min 10sec over captain Michael Leitch works the Alps. the peloton with 80km to go but out at a gym in Tokyo in this Ireland’s Sam Bennett was it was windled down slowly to June 2, 2019 file picture. inches behind 24-year-old van barely half a minute with 10km Aert followed by France’s Julian remaining. Alaphilippe in third. Today’s sixth and longest stage AFP points last November. Yates, who fi nished second heads 229km from Saint-Vulbas Tokyo Tonga off er sacked Folau World Cup lifeline “That will be the hardest game overall at last year’s Dauphine, into the Alps fi nishing in Saint- — coming up against Russia, the retains his slender four second Michel-Du-Maurienne and in- mental game,” he said. advantage over Bahrain-Meri- cludes a steep climb 7.5km from apan’s rugby captain Sydney: Tonga coach Toutai Kefu wants sacked Folau on board and while yet to speak person- “That’s the game they’re tar- da’s Dylan Teuns in second in the the fi nish line. Michael Leitch warned Wallaby Israel Folau to play for the Pacific island ally with the 30-year-old, suggested contact had geting,” added Leitch. “If they’re that the “Brave Blossoms” nation at the 2023 World Cup and has been in been made with his team. going to beat someone it’s going will fear no one at this touch about switching allegiances, a report said “We’d love to have him... the next World Cup to be Japan, so we’ve got to be Jyear’s World Cup as the hosts ready.” Former Vuelta champ Cobo banned yesterday. he’d be available for us hopefully,” he told the target a place in the knockout The devoutly Christian fullback was fired by newspaper. Leitch, who along with world Madrid: Spain’s Juan Jose Cobo tected in his biological passport stage for the fi rst time. Rugby Australia last month for posting homo- “It’s a long time away, so we’ll let the dust settle number one tennis player Naomi has been found guilty of an anti- and imposed a three-year period The New Zealand-born fl ank- phobic comments on social media in a case that a bit after his most recent issues. We don’t even Osaka, carries the fl ag for mixed- doping rule violation based on of ineligibility on the rider,” UCI er shot to fame four years ago sparked debate about religious expression. know if he’s going to play again. race or foreign-born Japan ath- “abnormalities” in his biological said in a statement. when Japan won three games Folau, who is of Tongan heritage, has launched “He hasn’t indicated where he is going, so we’ll letes, will lead out a multi-cul- passport between 2009 and “In accordance with the proce- under Eddie Jones, including an legal action through Australia’s employment wait until the dust settles and then look at those tural World Cup team with roots 2011, the International Cycling dural rules of the anti-doping astonishing 34-32 victory over watchdog the Fair Work Commission. options.” Another enticement is that Folau’s in New Zealand, South Africa Union (UCI) said yesterday.. tribunal, the decision will be two-time champions South Af- The 30-year-old had been due to play a key brother John, who was on the books of Super and the Pacifi c islands. Cycling’s world governing published on the UCI website rica. role for the Wallabies at this year’s World Cup in Rugby club NSW Waratahs but quit in solidarity He also has plans to bring body has imposed a three-year in due course.” A biological Just 100 days before Japan kick Japan, but that dream is now over. with his sibling, is expected to be named in the Mongolian teenagers to Japan to suspension on the now retired passport is an electronic record off the World Cup against Russia, Given he has already represented Australia, Tonga squad for the upcoming Pacific Nations play rugby on an exchange pro- 38-year-old, with Spanish media where results of all doping tests Leitch is backing his side to make Folau cannot switch immediately and play for Cup (PNC). This could open the door to him play- gramme that mirrors his own de- reporting that he could also by a rider over a period of time history. another country. ing for the Pacific nation at the Japan World Cup velopment. be stripped of his 2011 Vuelta a are collated and compared. “Our main objective is get out But under a loophole in World Rugby regula- and beyond. “I’m not 100 % rugby,” smiled Espana title. That would mean The UCI said that Cobo had used of the pool stages,” he told AFP in tions, he could apply to play for Tonga’s national “We’re going to look at him and even may take Leitch, born to a New Zealand fa- Briton Chris Froome, who fin- a prohibited substance but did an interview. side if he sits out three years of international him to the PNC because we’ve got some holes ther and Fijian mother. ished second ahead of Bradley not state what it was. “Once we get out of there rugby and then represents Tonga at Sevens in in our squad, especially out wide in the backs. “But this year’s a bit diff er- Wiggins in the race, could be Cobo can appeal the decision we’ve either got New Zealand or an Olympic qualifying event. There’s a good chance he will be part of that ent — I have been a bit selfi sh and awarded the victory for his before the Court of Arbitration South Africa, and we’re not going Kefu, a former Wallabies No 8, is keen to have squad,” Kefu said. everything is about rugby.” seventh Grand Tour crown. for Sport within a month. to lay down for them either.” Leitch, who owns a coff ee “The anti-doping tribunal found Froome is currently in intensive Leitch’s bold decision not to shop in Tokyo, is itching for the (Cobo) guilty of an anti-doping care in France following surgery kick for a draw with Japan trailing the face of Japanese rugby. we trained.” But Leitch, who is targeting serious business to begin after a rule violation based on abnor- after a crash at the Criterium du the Springboks by three points Leitch, who moved to Sapporo But Leitch believes Japan — a return at next month’s Pacifi c lengthy injury layoff . malities from 2009 and 2011 de- Dauphine on Wednesday. in the last minute of their 2015 in northern Japan as a 15-year- who also face Ireland, Scotland Nations Cup, played down the A calming infl uence for Japan opener in Brighton led to Karne old, credits Jones with laying the and Samoa in Pool A this year pressure on Japan to progress during the heat of battle, he is Hesketh’s famous try — securing foundations for Japan’s success — have improved under current from their group after their 2015 none the less happy to avoid the the World Cup’s biggest upset. with his punishing training ses- coach Jamie Joseph. heroics. limelight. TRAGEDY “That day I had a coff ee with sions. “With Jamie’s style the play- “There’s a lot of expectation,” “The way I operate in the team, Eddie and he said ‘Just go with “Back then we didn’t know ers have a lot more responsibility he admitted. “But I don’t see that I’m just an organiser — I don’t whatever you want to do!’ — what hard work was,” said the and accountability for their ac- as pressure. I’m quietly confi dent want to be the hero,” said Leitch. that’s probably the best advice hulking back-row forward, who tions,” said Leitch after a work- we’ll get the job done.” “I just try to lead by example. Inspirational runner Eddie ever gave me,” said Leitch. is currently recovering from a out at his Japanese club Toshiba Leitch predicted that Japan’s When things are going good I’m “If I was smart I would have groin injury. Brave Lupus. tournament opener on Septem- in the background, but when the retired then and there and gone “Eddie was all about the fi ner “The team has a lot more at- ber 20 could be their most dif- shit hits the fan then I’m the one Grunewald dies of into the Hall of Fame,” added the details. We had to just turn up tachment to what we’re doing fi cult test, noting how they only who will show face and give di- 30-year-old, who has become and train — and play exactly how this time around.” just pipped the Russians by fi ve rection.” cancer at age 32 MOTORCYCLING Reuters wrote. “To everyone else from Minneapolis all ends of the earth, Gabriele heard your messages and was so deeply moved.” Marquez hopes home comforts can bolster lead ributes have fl owed for Three years after her initial United States runner cancer diagnosis, Grunewald AFP been able to rest since the last race and I’m back to full Gabriele Grunewald, fi nished fourth at the US Ol- Montmeló, Spain strength.” Marquez is far from the only rider wanting to who died in Minneapolis ympic trials in 2012, narrowly capitalise on home comforts. Ton Tuesday from complications missing a spot on the team for Maverick Vinales (Yamaha) is also from Catalonia of cancer at the age of 32. the London Games. pain’s Marc Marquez will try to end his and Rins is from Barcelona, while the brothers Pol and Grunewald inspired thou- She did, however, represent drought at the Catalan Grand Prix on Sunday Aleix Espargaro (KTM and Aprilia respectively) were sands by chronicling on social the US at the 2014 world indoor and extend his lead in the world championship born in Granollers, near the circuit of Montmelo. media her battle with a rare form championships. by winning his home race on the 70th anniver- They will be competing with the Italian contingent of of cancer of the salivary gland. She also competed at the 2016 Ssary of MotoGP. Ducati, who have claimed victory in this event for the She continuing to compete at US Olympic trials. Marquez was beaten by Ducati’s Danilo Petrucci in last two years, as well as Yamaha’s Valentino Rossi, who a world class level long after be- World marathon record- the previous round in Mugello earlier this month but won in 2017. ing diagnosed. holder Paula Radcliff e was still managed to stretch his advantage at the top of the “We are going through a crucial phase of the season Her death was announced on among those saddened by standings. and we must continue scoring as many points as pos- Instagram by her husband Jus- Grunewald’s plight. The Honda rider sits 12 points ahead of Ducati’s An- sible,” said Dovizioso, twice a runner-up in the world tin. “The bravery, heart and smile drea Dovizioso, also of Ducati, 27 in front of Suzuki’s championship. “I always felt like the Robin of @gg_runs will always shine Alex Rins and 33 above Petrucci. “There is always a little more excitement when the The competition also celebrates 70 years this week- to your Batman and know I will brightly and inspire so many,” But, despite being born in Cervera in central Catalo- Grand Prix comes home,” said Marquez, a fi ve-time end since its fi rst race, the Tourist Trophy of the Isle of never be able to feel this gaping Radcliff e tweeted on Sunday nia, Marquez has only once won his local race in Mo- MotoGP world champion since 2013. Man. It was held on June 13, 1949 and won by Britain’s hole in my heart or fi ll the shoes when news broke that Grune- toGP, in 2014. “The bike and I are in a very good position, I have Freddie Frith. you have left behind,” Justin wald’s death was imminent. Gulf Times Friday, June 14, 2019 5 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Blues' O’Reilly named Stanley Blues beat Bruins Cup playoff s MVP

Reuters Cup Final. Boston It has been a remarkable jour- ney for O’Reilly, who only had 13 games of playoff experience prior t. Louis Blues forward to this season. O’Reilly got a taste in seven to capture Ryan O’Reilly was award- of the playoff s in 2010 and 2014 ed the Conn Smythe Tro- as a member of the Colorado Av- phy as the most valuable alanche, who traded him to the playerS of the National Hockey Buff alo Sabres in 2015. League’s Stanley Cup playoff s Last year, after three consecu- on Wednesday after leading his tive losing seasons with the Sa- team to their fi rst championship. bres, O’Reilly admitted that at O’Reilly, who was acquired by times during the campaign he fi rst NHL title St. Louis last off season, scored fell out of love with the game. his team’s opening goal in each But those feeling soon became a of the fi nal four games of the distant memory when O’Reilly Pietrangelo and O’Reilly had a goal and an assist as an improbable turnaround Stanley Cup Final and in the was traded to the Blues, a team process set a franchise record he immediately realized would with the most points in one play- have the potential go further in off year with 23. “I stopped try- the playoff s than he had ever ing to worry about the outcome been before. and just give it everything I had,” “From knowing a bunch of said O’Reilly, who fi nished tied guys on the team and then look- for the NHL scoring lead in the ing at the roster I was just so playoff s. “I was getting bounces. amped up and I just said, ‘let’s go It was amazing, my linemates win a Cup,’” said O’Reilly. “We played great, I thought we cre- knew it was there, we knew we ated every night.” had the pieces but it was so edu- When O’Reilly opened the cational for myself to see how scoring in the Cup-clinching tough it is and how tough you 4-1 victory over the host Bos- have to work and even keel you ton Bruins, he became the fi rst have to be. It was always there player since Hall of Famer Wayne that we could do it but to actu- Gretzky in 1985 to score in four ally do it, it’s exhausting. I’m ex- consecutive games of the Stanley hausted.”

Ryan O’Reilly of the St. Louis Blues celebrates with the Conn Smythe Trophy after winning the NHL Stanley Cup in Boston. (AFP) St. Louis Blues players celebrate after defeating the Boston Bruins in Game Seven to win the 2019 NHL Stanley Cup in Boston on Wednesday night. (AFP)

AFP Binnington barred the door as the Bru- with 8:35 remaining. started play with a strong forecheck and NBA Los Angeles ins outshot the Blues but couldn’t beat It has been decades since the Blues passed to the point to Pietrangelo who the Canadian rookie, who didn’t become marched into the Stanley Cup fi nal — slid it over to Jason Bouwmeester. the team’s starting goaltender until half- 1970 to be exact when they lost in four Bouwmeester’s wrister was redirected oaltender Jordan Binning- way through the season. games to Boston in a suspense-fi lled se- by O’Reilly through the legs of Rask. The Durant declares ton made 32 stops as the St. Pietrangelo and O’Reilly, who won the ries that culminated with a high-fl ying Blues went up 2-0 with eight seconds left Louis Blues captured their fi rst award as the playoff MVP, scored goals Bobby Orr game winner. The Blues were in the fi rst, when Pietrangelo jumped up Stanley Cup in franchise history in the fi nal four minutes of the opening swept in all three of their previous fi nals into the off ence and scored on a backhand surgery a success Gwith a 4-1 game seven win over Boston period to give the Blues a 2-0 lead despite appearances. to the top half of the net. Jaden Schwartz that capped a storybook season. being outplayed by a fi red up Bruins of- “I thought our guys were really re- dropped a pass for Pietrangelo who went Reuters post accompanied by a picture of Captain Alex Pietrangelo and Conn fence in front of a crowd of 17,500 at the silient,” said Blues coach Craig Berube. forehand to backhand and put it over the Los Angeles him in a hospital bed. Smythe Trophy winner Ryan O’Reilly Boston Garden. “Everybody is going to be nervous to start shoulder of Rask. “Like I said Monday, I’m hurt- each had a goal and an assist as an im- Boston goalie Tuukka Rask was tre- the game. They (Boston) were nervous. I Schenn then scored from the slot to ing deeply, but I’m OK. Bas- probable Blues turnaround saw them go mendous in a game six win but allowed told my guys ‘listen, you guys all played seal the win for the Blues. Schenn took evin Durant underwent ketball is my biggest love and I from the worst team in the NHL in early four goals on just 20 shots, including game seven in your heads 100 times a perfectly timed pass from Vladimir surgery on Wednes- wanted to be out there that night January to claim their fi rst championship two goals on four shots in the fi rst. The growing up, and you all won, and you Tarasenko and blasted a one timer past day for a ruptured because that’s what I do. I want- in their 52-year history on Wednesday. 25-year-old Binnington looked like a were the hero’.” Rask. His goal came just moments after Achilles tendon, the ed to help my teammates on our “I can’t believe where I am right now,” seasoned veteran, making several clutch The Bruins were looking to capture Binnington sprawled out to make a sen- KGolden State Warriors player quest for the three peat.” said Binnington. stops in the fi rst off David Krejci and Mar- their seventh NHL championship, having sational stop on Bruins Nordstrom which announced, as head coach Steve Durant was referring to his “It is an incredible feeling. We did it. I cus Johansson who got behind the St. last hoisted the Stanley Cup in 2011, the would have made it 2-1. Kerr defended the decision to long-awaited return for the NBA can’t wait to get back to St. Louis and cel- Louis defence but couldn’t beat him in last time the fi nals went to a game seven. Binnington’s play came as a surprise to play the four-times NBA leading Finals, which lasted barely one ebrate with the whole city.” close. “We needed a goal earlier in the game. It everyone but himself as heading into the scorer in game fi ve of the NBA Fi- quarter, before he suff ered the Binnington said the Cup, which weighs With the Blues ahead 2-0 in the third, didn’t come until too late,” said Bruins postseason he was considered to be the nals. Durant said the surgery, less injury. The two-times NBA MVP 15.5 kilos (34 pounds), was heavier to lift he made another sensational stop on defenceman Zdeno Chara, who played Blues’ weak link only because of his lack than 48 hours after he sustained had missed the fi rst four games over his head than he expected. “I haven’t Bruins forward Joakim Nordstrom. The with a broken jaw. of big game experience. “I just wanted the injury on Monday against of the series with a calf injury, done an upper body workout in three save took the life out of Boston crowd and Blues forward O’Reilly tipped a shot to try the best I can,” said Binnington. the Toronto Raptors, had been and the Warriors had been ex- months. I got it up there and am going to then Brayden Schenn silenced them with from point through the legs of Rask at “Sometimes it is not going to work out. successful. “My road back starts cited to have him back for a game lift it up a lot more times,” he said. his only goal of the game to make it 3-0 16:47 to open the scoring. Sammy Blais But I am going to keep pushing.” now,” he wrote on Instagram in a they had to win to stay alive.

BOTTOMLINE Family tragedy taught Kawhi to enjoy life and hoops AFP crime that has never been solved. “Once Raptors coach Nick Nurse sees Leon- Oakland, United States it happened, I thought about it a lot. But ard’s toughness coming from hard times as I got older, I pretty much just really in his youth. “Probably not basketball- stopped thinking about it,” Leonard said related things, probably the way he was fter coping with the trauma Wednesday. raised or the environment he grew up of his father’s murder as a “It just gave me a sense and feel that in,” Nurse said. “He’s certainly tough, 16-year-old, Kawhi life and basketball are two diff erent strong and composed.” A eonard has no dif- things and just really enjoy your time Rivals have an appreciation for his fi culty putting bas- and moments. This is basketball. Just talent, notably Golden State star guard ketball in its proper go out there and have fun. These are Stephen Curry. “He’s a gamer,” Curry Lperspective. Late last going to be the best years of my life, said of Leonard. “He just makes win- Night, the Toronto Raptors star were playing this game. Being this young, ning plays. He’s shown off ensively how trying to lead the Canadian franchise you shouldn’t be stressing in life about dynamic he is. He requires attention at to their fi rst NBA Finals crown, and things that really don’t matter. As long all times. So even a really good defense, the fi rst for any team from outside the as your family is healthy, you’re able to sometimes he fi nds a way. United States, with victory in game six see the people you love and you’re able “For us, it’s just playing the long at Golden State. to walk, run. Go out here, lay it all out on game, understanding that he might have Leonard’s 31.1 points a game in the the fl oor, do the best job I could possibly great numbers and whatnot, but it’s just playoff s have sparked the Raptors to a do and try to win.” a matter of can we get the stops that 3-2 edge in the best-of-seven series but His mindset is on the challenge of matter and can we win. He’s just a com- they hope to fi nish the Warriors without each play as it comes, each game as it’s petitor. We respect that, for sure. He’s needing a game seven Sunday in Toron- played. “To really say, ‘Oh I feel so much shown that again this entire playoff run to. Leonard’s trademark calm demean- pressure.’ You really don’t. Once your they’ve had.” our on the court has carried over onto adrenaline is going, it’s a lot diff erent Warriors swingman Andre Iguodala the team, helping them handle pressure watching the game because your mind- sees Leonard as the rare player with the situations and not get too excited even set is totally diff erent. You’re within that physical gifts and mental discipline to standing on the brink of the NBA title. moment and you’re embracing it and fensive Player of the Year honours the ertoire this whole season. The playoff s stuff from him this year that just you say, make the most of them. “He’s a winner,” It’s something Leonard has had since enjoying what’s going to happen next.” next two seasons. The Raptors have en- has made it even more of a bigger stage,” ‘Wow.’ You appreciate the work that’s Iguodala said. “It doesn’t show up in his father, Mark Leonard, was shot He’s enjoyed a lot over his career, an joyed it all with him this season after his Raptors guard Kyle Lowry said. “I think put in. He works extremely hard at his any type of data, what a winner is. When dead in 2008 at the car wash he owned NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award trade deal from San Antonio last July. he’s the best two-way basketball player game and his body. And he loves this you’re going against that, you have a dif- in Compton, a Los Angeles suburb, in a in 2014 with San Antonio and NBA De- “He’s been able to show his full rep- in the NBA. He just goes. I’ve seen some basketball thing.” ferent type of respect for it.” Gulf Times 6 Friday, June 14, 2019 SPORT

MLB Brewers claim marathon win despite striking out 24 times Milwaukee earn a split of the two-game interleague series by overcoming a dominant eff ort from the Astros’ pitchers

Reuters career grand slam for Cooper, who hit innings, and Chicago beat Colorado in Houston one May 23 against the Detroit Tigers. Denver. Rockies third baseman Nolan Arenado left the game with a left fore- DIAMONDBACKS 2, PHILLIES 0 arm contusion after being hit by a pitch ike Moustakas slugged the Merrill Kelly threw 7 2/3 scoreless in- from Hamels in the third inning. Brewers’ fourth home run nings to lift visiting Arizona past Phila- Hamels (6-2), who fanned nine, of the night with one out delphia to earn the series win. Kelly also singled twice and drove in two Min the 14th inning, a two- (7-6) allowed three hits and no runs, runs, and Carlos Gonzalez had two hits run shot that led Milwaukee to a 6-3 struck out fi ve and walked none while against his former team. The Cubs had win over the host Houston Astros on throwing 93 pitches, 67 for strikes. lost fi ve straight road games. Wednesday. Milwaukee earned a split Greg Holland earned his 10th save in 11 of the two-game interleague series by opportunities and the 199th of his ca- REDS 7, INDIANS 2 overcoming a dominant eff ort from the reer with a scoreless ninth. Rookie Nick Senzel and Joey Votto Astros’ pitchers, who recorded a club- homered to open the game as visiting record 24 strikeouts. TIGERS 3, ROYALS 2 Cincinnati posted a victory over Cleve- The Brewers’ Christian Yelich sin- Brandon Dixon’s eighth-inning sac- land to salvage a split of their two-game gled to right to lead off the 14th, and rifi ce fl y scored the go-ahead run, and interleague series. Moustakas went deep off Cionel Perez Detroit emerged with a victory over The back-to-back homers to start (1-1) for his 21st homer to snap a 3-3 host Kansas City. Jorge Soler, who the game marked the fi rst time Cincin- tie. Yasmani Grandal then doubled and drove in both of the Royals’ runs, fl ied nati accomplished the feat since Alex scored on Jesus Aguilar’s single. Before out to center to end the game with the Ochoa and Barry Larkin went deep at Jake Marisnick stroked a one-out single tying run on base. Nick Ramirez (3-0) St. Louis on June 26, 2001. in the bottom of the 13th, the Astros pitched two scoreless innings to pick up Eugenio Suarez and Curt Casali went eight innings without recording the victory. Shane Greene handled the homered to lead off the sixth and sev- a hit. Adrian Houser (2-1), the Brewers’ ninth for his 20th save in 21 chances. enth innings, respectively, and Jose Ig- sixth pitcher, earned the win with two lesias ripped a two-run double in the shutout innings. RED SOX 4, RANGERS 3 eighth for the Reds, who saw eight of Mookie Betts worked a walk-off base- their nine hits go for extra bases (four BRAVES 8, PIRATES 7 on-balls to carry Boston to a win over homers, four doubles). Ozzie Albies drove in the winning run visiting Texas. Christian Vazquez on an 11th-inning double, giving host opened the ninth with a ground-rule ATHLETICS 6, RAYS 2 Atlanta a victory over Pittsburgh. Aus- double, and Jackie Bradley Jr.’s single Ramon Laureano broke an eighth-in- tin Riley, who was hit by a pitch to lead to shallow right moved pinch runner ning tie with his fi rst career grand slam, off the inning, came all the way around Marco Hernandez to third. giving Oakland a victory over Tampa to score from fi rst base on Albies’ dou- After a four-pitch walk to Michael Bay in the fi nale of a three-game se- ble. Michael Feliz (2-3) took the loss, Chavis, Betts coaxed a fi ve-pitch walk ries in St. Petersburg. Brett Anderson giving up the one run in one-plus in- off reliever Jesse Chavez (2-2), break- pitched into the seventh inning, and ning. Jacob Webb (4-0) pitched two in- ing the reliever’s 22 2/3-inning score- three A’s relievers combined for 2 2/3 nings of scoreless relief to earn the win. less streak. Andrew Benintendi fi nished scoreless innings, allowing Oakland The victory was the sixth straight for 3-for-4 with two doubles, a triple and to take two games in the series despite Atlanta. Pittsburgh has lost six in a row. two RBIs to help the Red Sox snap their dropping the opener 6-2 on Monday. three-game losing streak and win for Liam Hendriks (3-0), who strand- MARINERS 9, TWINS 6 just the second time in seven games on ed the bases loaded after Tampa Bay Daniel Vogelbach went 4-for-5 with a the current homestand. scored twice in the seventh, was cred- homer, and Seattle took advantage of ited with the win after recording two three 10th-inning Minnesota errors to BLUE JAYS 8, ORIOLES 6 outs. score three unearned runs and pull out Rowdy Tellez hit a grand slam during a a victory in Minneapolis. Seattle’s Shed six-run fi fth inning as visiting Toronto GIANTS 4, PADRES 2 Long hit his fi rst major league home defeated Baltimore. Derek Law opened San Francisco took advantage of three run, a three-run drive to cap a fi ve-run for the Blue Jays and threw a score- errors to score three runs, and Kevin eighth inning. Mallex Smith had three less inning before Edwin Jackson (1-4) Pillar added a home run in a victory hits, including two doubles, for the earned the victory with fi ve solid in- over visiting San Diego that completed Mariners, who won for just the ninth nings. Jackson gave up two runs on four a two-game sweep. Shaun Anderson time in their past 32 games. Anthony hits, striking out two and walking two. (2-1) won for the second time in his past Bass (1-1) picked up the win in relief Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had three hits for three starts, limiting the Padres to two despite squandering a ninth-inning Toronto, and four of his teammates had runs and four hits in six innings. lead by serving up a two-run homer by Houston Astros’ Derek Fisher is out as Milwaukee Brewers’ Orlando Arcia (right) throws to first base to complete a double two hits apiece. Trey Mancini homered Anderson got the better of Joey Luc- Byron Buxton. Roenis Elias notched his play during the tenth inning in Houston on Wednesday. (USA TODAY Sports) among his two hits for the Orioles. chesi (5-4), who pitched well in the sixth save with a scoreless 10th inning. second San Francisco Bay Area home- a double short of the cycle, and Jordan as host Miami defeated St. Louis. The streak in which they totalled just 10 CUBS 10, ROCKIES 1 coming of his career but was victimized MARLINS 9, CARDINALS 0 Yamamoto pitched seven scoreless in- Marlins won the fi nale of a three-game runs. Cooper went 3-for-5 with four Kyle Schwarber and Javier Baez homer- by a shaky defense. He gave up three Garrett Cooper hit a grand slam and fell nings to win his major league debut series, snapping a six-game losing RBIs and two runs. It was the second ed, Cole Hamels pitched seven shutout runs (two earned) in six innings.

SPOTLIGHT NFL Suspects off ered $8,000 to kill Ortiz Bears’ Trubisky could be in Reuters Santa Domingo line for new contract next year By Brad Biggs this drill, all that stuff adds up. he alleged shooter of David Ortiz Chicago Tribune We just need to keep him making has been arrested along with four those strides.” others in a group off ered nearly Nagy has described the proc- T$8,000 to kill the former Boston ooking ahead to a season ess of graduating from Off ense Red Sox star at a Dominican Republic bar, packed with optimism 101 to 202 and like a freshman be- authorities said on Wednesday. and soaring expectations, comes a more confi dent sopho- The arrests came as Ortiz, 43, recovered the Bears today begin a more, there are less unknowns in a Boston hospital following a second Lsix-week break before training and a greater assuredness in the round of surgery on Tuesday, according to camp, and the most improved huddle, in the locker room and his family, which said he was sitting up and player from this time last year throughout the building. had taken a few steps. The plot to kill Ortiz, has to be Mitch Trubisky. “Us having a second year un- a national hero in the Dominican Republic, It’s encouraging to hear Tru- der our belt, the terminology is was more complex than initially thought bisky say he has gotten a lot bet- expanded,” wide receiver Taylor and involved two men on a motorcycle ter in this off season program, Gabriel said. “It’s more detailed. working with two other groups of people which concludes with the fi nal We know what Mitch wants. in cars, National Police chief Ney Aldrin minicamp practice Thursday at Mitch kind of can feel our speed, Bautista Almonte told reporters. Halas Hall. More entrenched in the tempo of what we’re doing. Dominican Republic Attorney General the off ense. More confi dent and So we’re connecting and we’re Jean Alain Rodriguez identifi ed Ramon Mar- raring to go when the Bears arrive going outside the playbook of tinez Perez as the man suspected of jumping at Olivet Nazarene University in what Nagy has kind of (drawn) off the back of a motorcycle on Sunday night Bourbonnais. in April with the selection of Ri- up. We’ve kind of been going to and shooting Ortiz in the torso. Bautista said Trubisky was still learning ley Ridley in the fourth round of what Mitch wants us to do, ‘OK, the group was off ered 400,000 Dominican the intricacies of Matt Nagy’s the draft. Pace also has rebuilt you want us to do a back shoul- pesos ($7,830) to carry out the contract kill- off ense at this time last year, a the backfi eld with the signing of der, you want us to do this.’ It’s ing. “It didn’t just involve two people, more process that really never ends, Mike Davis and selection of Dav- kind of turning into our off ense. people took part,” Bautista said. but now he’s reacting more, able id Montgomery. The moves have “It’s confi dence. Mitch is con- Another man linked to the plot, Luis Al- to trust his eyes and instincts, the surrounded Trubisky with more fi dent back there. He’s confi dent fredo Rivas Clase, nicknamed “The Sur- kind of thing that can lead to im- talent, raising expectations for in switching the play calls. He’s geon” remained at large, Bautista said. Rivas Retired baseball great David Ortiz was first treated in his native Dominican Republic and proved play a year after he set the the quarterback and the off ense confi dent in giving us a double Clase is also being sought over an April, 2018 then flown to Boston for a second operation. (USA TODAY Sports) franchise record for completion as a whole with more explosive move. We’ve got a lot of double shooting in Reading, Pennsylvania, local US percentage at 66.6. results expected this season. moves out there. He’s confi dent media reported. cording to the US State Department. on Wednesday. “His condition is guarded “I’ve got a lot better grasp “It is literally night and day in in what he’s looking at. He’s not Bautista declined to give a motive for the Police quickly arrested the suspected and he will remain in the (intensive care of the off ense,” Trubisky said. all the right ways,” off ensive co- just trying to fi gure out what the shooting or say who hired the attackers. Or- motorbike driver, identifi ed as Eddy Feliz unit) for the coming days, but he is making “We’re way ahead as far as tim- ordinator Mark Helfrich said of play is. Now he gets to look up tiz, widely known as “Big Papi,” is a sports Garcia, who was detained and beaten by good progress towards recovery.” ing, operation, getting to the the quarterback. “Our standard and look at the coverage. It’s just legend in Boston for his role in three World bystanders at the scene. The high-profi le Feliz appeared in court on Tuesday line of scrimmage, getting in for him is extremely high. But a drastic change from last year.” Series baseball championships as well as his attack on Ortiz drew attention to a string evening, charged with being an accomplice and out, adjustment on all of our just as far as the operation of not Where things head from here, profane but inspiring remarks in the days of deaths of US citizens in the Dominican in the attempted murder of Ortiz. Justina plays and just knowing where to only what he’s supposed to do, no one knows. It will be a telling after the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. Republic in recent months, as well as vio- Garcia, the mother of Feliz who remained in go with the football, especially what the defense is doing, ma- season for Trubisky, Nagy and He retired in 2016 after hitting 541 career lent assaults. Ortiz underwent a fi rst round custody, told reporters the charges against against all of these diff erent looks nipulating protections, just the the team. home runs, which ranks 17th all-time in of surgery in Santo Domingo late on Sun- her son were a “lie.” that the defense is throwing at air about him, it’s way diff erent. Interestingly, the Eagles ex- Major League Baseball. Ortiz was shot while day before being fl own the following day to “They can’t link it to him because he is not us. So I feel like we’ve done really And everybody’s noted that, ob- tended the contract of quarter- seated at an open-air nightclub in Santo Do- Boston’s Massachusetts General Hospital, a criminal,” she said. Solano said his client well. I feel like I have improved served that in various ways. back Carson Wentz last week. mingo, the capital of his native country. where he underwent more surgery. did not shoot Ortiz, but works as a motor- my game. We just have to keep “Therefore, people around Wentz was the No. 2 pick in the Ortiz’s friend Jhoel Lopez, a television A trauma and acute care surgeon was lead- cycle taxi driver and may have unwittingly getting better.” him are playing better, and that 2016 draft, a year before the Bears host, was wounded in the leg in the shoot- ing the team treating Ortiz, his wife, Tiff any driven the shooter to the scene. Ortiz played General manager Ryan Pace helps too. Everybody else, they chose Trubisky with the same ing. The Dominican Republic has one of the Ortiz, said in a statement on Wednesday. On 20 MLB seasons, spending his fi rst six years made a concerted eff ort to over- not only know everybody’s name, pick. Wentz’s four-year exten- highest murder rates in the world, with most Tuesday “and this morning, David was able with the Minnesota Twins before joining the haul the wide receiver corps last but they know, hey, when we say sion is worth $132 million with homicides committed during robberies, ac- to sit up as well as take some steps,” she said Boston Red Sox. off season and added to it again this, it means that, when we go to $66 million fully guaranteed. Gulf Times Friday, June 14, 2019 7 FOOTBALL

PREVIEW WOMEN’S WORLD CUP Australia recover to beat Brazil Expectations high despite landmark goal by Marta

Reuters said Australia coach Ante Milicic. Montpellier, France “They never stopped believ- for Argentina and ing, and the coaching staff never stopped believing. We kept on ustralia came from two believing in our style and in our goals down to defeat football and it’s an Australian Brazil 3-2 in the wom- performance to be proud of.” en’s World Cup yester- Marta opened the scoring af- day,A as an own goal from Monica ter 27 minutes, converting from capped a superb fi ghtback and the spot after Leticia Santos was Brazil in Copa overshadowed a milestone goal fouled by Elise Kellond-Knight. for Marta. Marta had already scored at Marta, 33, became the fi rst the 2003, 2007, 2011 and 2015 Chile are seeking to win the tournament for the third consecutive year player to score at fi ve diff erent World Cups. World Cups as she put Brazil “It would feel much better DPA Argentina’s expectations are ahead from the penalty spot with with a win,” she said. “It’s one Rio de Janeiro just as high in what could possi- a record-extending 16th World more detail written in the history bly be Lionel Messi’s last major Cup goal before Cristiane dou- of women’s football. I am hon- tournament unless the Barce- bled the lead. oured, but there’s more to do at lona forwards decides to stay on Australia’s Caitlin Foord re- this tournament.” njured Neymar is missing for the 2022 World Cup when he duced the arrears on the stroke Cristiane netted her fourth for hosts Brazil but Lionel will be 35. For all the multiple of halftime before Chloe Logarzo goal at these fi nals with a 38th- Messi leads Argentina in Ballon d’Or winners triumphs equalised and Monica then head- minute header to double Brazil’s their quest for a fi rst title with Barca, a major title with ed past her own keeper, with the tally but Foord gave Australia Iin 26 years as South America’s the Albiceleste eludes him fol- goal given after a VAR review, to hope with a close-range fi nish. Copa America tournament kicks lowing three Copa America hand Australia all three points. Marta, who missed the open- off today. fi nal defeats and a World Cup Brazil and Australia both have ing game against Jamaica Expectations are not only fi nal loss. “We are very clear three points in Group C as do through injury, was replaced for high for fi ve-time world cham- about how we want to play,” Italy, who take on Jamaica on Fri- the second half as coach Vadao pions Brazil to be in the fi nal in national coach Lionel Scaloni day after beating the Matildas in looked to rest her, but the deci- the Maracana on July 7 but also said. “We have great players, their opening match. sion backfi red as Brazil lost con- for Messi to end his title drought especially in attack. If we are “Tonight is one of the fi nest trol. with the national team. also solid in the defence, we can Australian performances I’ve Logarzo equalised with a long- Reigning champions Chile are cause problems.” seen. The players deserve all the range shot in the 58th minute, seeking to become the fi rst team rewards they were given tonight. eight minutes before Monica’s in 72 years to win the tourna- For 2020 World Cup hosts I’m really delighted for them,” own goal was confi rmed by VAR. ment for the third consecutive Qatar, it is an opportu- year, while teams like Uruguay nity for the national team and Colombia will be hoping to under Spanish coach Felix make an impression. Sanchez to measure After 12 years without a title, themselves against some much is at stake for Brazil’s Se- of the world’s best lecao in front of their own fans. Full-back Filipe Luis said: “We never thought about being part Defending champions Chile, of a failed generation. It’s a new after successive titles in 2015 opportunity to make history in and the 2016 Centenario, are the national team jersey.” motivated to win a third ti- Brazil open the tournament tle but are not a top favourite, today (0030 GMT Saturday) in coach Reinaldo Rueda said. Sao Paulo against Bolivia, with “Chile will remain true to memories still not faded of their its DNA, the search for order, last home tournament when the joy of the game, working they went out of the 2014 World together,” he said. Uruguay Cup in a 7-1 semi-fi nal defeat to meanwhile can still call on the Germany. potent double strike force of “This competition is a great Luis Suarez and Edinson Cav- opportunity. We have to win at ani. In addition to South Amer- Brazil’s forward Marta (L) celebrates with teammates after scoring home in front of our fans,” Filipe ica’s 10 teams, Asian champions from a penalty kick against Australia at the Mosson Stadium in Luis said. Goalkeeper coach Qatar and Japan are taking part Montpellier, southern France. Claudio Taff arel said: “The fans as guests. For 2020 World Cup want to see the national team hosts Qatar, it is an opportu- win. It’s not just about play- nity for the national team under PREMIER LEAGUE ing well. What matters in the Spanish coach Felix Sanchez end is victory.” Even without to measure themselves against Neymar, Brazil have the likes some of the world’s best. of Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino “To play against such strong Champions Man and keeper Alisson Becker fresh teams is an historic opportu- from Champions League tri- nity for us,” said striker Almoez umph. Others such as Barce- Ali, who was top scorer at the City to kick off lona’s Philippe Coutinho, Man- Asian Cup earlier this year. The chester City’s Gabriel Jesus and teams are drawn in three groups Fernandinho, or captain Dani of four, with the winners, run- season at West Ham Alves with Paris Saint-Germain ners-up and two best third- have enjoyed domestic league Argentina’s Lionel Messi (2-L) and Juan Foyth (R) during a training session at Manoel Barradas placed teams advancing to the Reuters a brief mid-season break. A set title wins. Stadium in Salvador, state of Bahia, Brazil, yesterday. quarter-fi nal knock-out stage. London of fi xtures will be spread over a two-week period in February, meaning all clubs get a week off . SPOTLIGHT hampions Manches- It will also feature the Video ter City will kick off Assistant Referee (VAR) system their 2019-20 Premier for the fi rst time. CLeague season with an Pep Guardiola’s Manchester away trip to West Ham United City, who completed an unprec- while Liverpool get the ball roll- edented domestic treble last ing with a Friday evening home season, have a relatively com- Qatar’s Hatim urges teammates clash against promoted Nor- fortable start to the new cam- wich City. paign, although they do face The fi xtures released yester- Tottenham, who knocked them day also included a meaty fi rst- out of last season’s Champions weekend clash with Manchester League in the quarter-fi nals, at to put up a fi ghting show United hosting Chelsea, who home on the second weekend. fi nished third last season. They then travel to Bourne- Tottenham Hotspur, who mouth, host Brighton, visit completed the top-four last Norwich and then take on Wat- season, are at home to Aston ford at the Etihad. Villa, who returned to the top Premier League runners-up fl ight via the playoff s after a and European champions Liv- three-season absence. erpool’s fi rst six games feature Arsenal travel to Newcastle a home match against Arsenal United while Sheffi eld United, and an away trip to Chelsea. the other promoted club, start The fi rst game between last at Bournemouth. season’s title rivals takes place Leicester City host Wolver- at Anfi eld on Nov 9. hampton Wanderers, Burnley Tottenham and Arsenal fans face Southampton, Crystal will not have long to wait for Palace host Everton and FA the season’s fi rst North London Cup runners-up Watford are at derby, with the sides meeting at home to Brighton and Hove Al- the Emirates on Aug 31. bion. Other notable dates include The season starts on Friday, Liverpool’s trip to Manchester Aug 9. United on Oct 19 and the Man- The upcoming top fl ight sea- chester derby at the Etihad Sta- son will be the fi rst to include dium on Dec 7.

Hazard unveiled to Madrid fans

Madrid: Eden Hazard was un- delivered a brief statement to Qatar coach Felix Sanchez supervises a training session in Rio de Janeiro yesterday. veiled at the Santiago Bernabeu his expectant fans. yesterday as around 50,000 “Hello everyone,” Hazard start- By Sports Reporter Qatar, who won the Asian Cup training: “The Qatari team enters the United States. against a strong and top-class supporters turned out to wel- ed in Spanish, to huge cheers, Rio de Janeiro in February, will play matches the tournament as the champi- Qatar featured in an interna- team in the world,” he noted. come the player they hope will before continuing in French. “It against former World Cup cham- ons of Asia, and we hope that our tional friendly against Brazil on “Without a doubt, the loss launch a glorious new era under was my dream since I was small pions Argentina, Columbia and team is the best representative of June 5 followed by a 2-1 win over against Brazil does not diminish Zinedine Zidane. to play for Real Madrid and now bdulaziz Hatim has Paraguay in the 12-team event this despite the strength and dif- a club side four days later. our hopes as we could have done The 28-year-old Hazard was I am here.” “You are one of the urged his teammates to starting today. fi culty of the group.” Hatim said that the match better than the 2-0 score sug- presented with the home shirt, best players in the world,” added exhibit a fi ghting show Japan and Qatar are the two Al Anabi conducted a team played by Qatar against Brazil gests,” he added. which was without a number, by Perez. “We know Real Madrid Awhen Asian Cup cham- invited teams for the oldest foot- training camp in Rio two weeks was good learning experience. Qatar, who missed a penalty club president Florentino Perez, was where you wanted to be pions Qatar make their Copa ball tournament in the world. ago. On their way to Brazil, Qatar “Our team presented a good against Brazil, open against Para- moments after the Belgian had and now you’re here.” America debut this week. Hatim said after yesterday’s also had a training camp in Texas, fi ghting game in their friendly guay on June 16.

Friday, June 14, 2019 GULF TIMES SPORT

SPOTLIGHT TENNIS Tsitsipas begins grass court season Tears as Lee quits with shock defeat in Rosmalen

AFP since February 2017. Stuttgart, Germany Meanwhile, Greek world aft er cancer battle number six Stefanos Tsitsipas’ Wimbledon preparations suf- ‘MY DECISION TO RETIRE IS A HEAVY ONE. I REALLY LOVE THIS SPORT’ orld number fi ve fered a blow when he crashed Alexander Zverev to a 6-4 3-6 6-4 defeat against made a poor start Chilean Nicolas Jarry in the sec- Wto the grass-court ond round of the Libema Open in season as he was dumped out of Rosmalen. the Stuttgart ATP event by fellow Top seed Tsitsipas, who re- German Dustin Brown yesterday. ceived a bye in the opening The top seed, who lost to No- round, landed just 59% of his vak Djokovic in the French Open fi rst serves and was broken twice quarter-fi nals last week, was in a sluggish display to hand the beaten 6-4, 6-7 (3/7), 6-3 by the 60th-ranked Jarry victory in two 170th-ranked Brown. hours. The 34-year-old Brown, Tsitsipas was playing his who famously knocked out Ra- fi rst match since losing to Stan fael Nadal in the second round Wawrinka in the last last-16 of of Wimbledon four years ago, the French Ope. saved 13 of 14 break points as he The 20-year-old will look to claimed only his fi fth-ever win improve on last year’s fourth- over a top-10 player. round appearance at Wimbledon Zverev, 22, has never won an when he returns to the All Eng- ATP title on grass, while Brown land Club next month. will face either Frenchman Jarry will meet either Kazakh Gilles Simon or Canadian teen- Mikhail Kukushkin or France’s ager Felix Auger-Aliassime in Richard Gasquet in today’s quar- his first top-level quarter-final ter-fi nals.

In this file photo taken on August 19, 2016, Malaysia’s Lee Chong Wei reacts after winning against China’s Lin Dan during their semi-final match at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. Inset: Lee breaks down while announcing his retirement yesterday.

AFP reaching three consecutive fi nals, were one will accompany me.” was banned after testing positive for a Putrajaya, Malaysia followed avidly by his fans, as was his He also posted a link to a Chinese bal- banned anti-infl ammatory at the 2014 long-running rivalry with Chinese su- lad called “Friends Don’t Cry”. world championships. perstar Lin Dan. “Lin Dan and myself are rivals in the The long-time former world number ancer-hit badminton star Lee His last shot at the Olympic title at Rio court but outside the court, we are close one returned to the sport in 2015, after Chong Wei announced his re- 2016 ended in crushing disappointment friends,” Lee said when asked about their authorities accepted he took the drug in- tirement yesterday, ending a when the Malaysian lost out to China’s rivalry. I hope Lin Dan will play in the advertently. brilliant career in which he col- Chen Long in a nail-biting fi nal. Tokyo Olympics. But he faces challenges “I have no regrets. More important is lectedC a swathe of honours but never won Lin posted to his four million followers from younger players.” my health, the decision to retire is very a world or Olympic title. on China’s Twitter-like Weibo: “I will be Cancer proved the career-ending blow tough,” said Lee, adding that his cancer Lee, who spent a total of 348 weeks as alone on the (badminton) court and no but it wasn’t the only low for Lee, who treatment was now over. Germany’s Dustin Brown returns the ball to Germany’s Alexander world number one but lost six world and “My plan to retire was originally after Zverev during their round-of-16 match at the ATP Mercedes Cup Olympic fi nals, wept as he called it quits the Olympic Games. I made this decision tennis tournament in Stuttgart yesterday. months after fi ghting off nose cancer. due to my health. “My decision to retire is a heavy one. I “You know I got married in 2012. But really love this sport. But it is a demand- we (have) never gone for a honeymoon. I Ali’s autographed gold glove fails to sell ing sport. I thank all Malaysians for the owe this promise (to my wife), now I have past 19 years,” Lee, 36, told a news con- to please her.” Turin: A rare gold boxing tween Woody Allen and Frank ference. Lee, a father of two, was diag- Lee said that at his last check-up in glove made to commemorate Sinatra,” recalled Scime. nosed with early-stage nose cancer last Taiwan in April he was told by his doc- Muhammad Ali’s “Fight of the “We were so close that when year and after intensive treatment in Tai- tor to rest as “badminton requires high- Century” against Joe Frazier in they punched each other we wan he said he was keen to play again. intensity training”. Madison Square Garden nearly were covered in splashes of But he hasn’t trained since April and Badminton Association of Malaysia 50 years ago failed to find a sweat. after missing a series of self-imposed (BAM) president Norza Zakaria, who was buyer in an auction in Turin yes- “Only a few of us in the front deadlines to return to competition, his at the news conference, described Lee as terday. The glove was produced rows were given a glove as a hopes of being eligible for next year’s To- a “legend”. by Everlast to promote the memento, and I would have kyo Olympics were remote. “It is a sad day. Lee is a legend and very world heavyweight title fight on had Ali autograph it, but the The three-time Olympic silver medal- dependable. We accept his decision,” March 8, 1971 during which Ali match — as is well known -gold list said he now wanted to rest and spend Norza said. suff ered his first defeat. — ended tragically, and so it was time with his family, and even take his Malaysian sports minister Syed Saddiq But it failed to get an off er for not possible.” wife on a “honeymoon”, a trip that has Syed Abdul Rahman described Lee as “a the 5,000-euro ($5,637) asking “(After his defeat) Alì looked been delayed since their marriage in 2012. hero to all Malaysians... someone like him price at Sala Bolaff i in Turin. wretched, not so much on a He fi nishes his career with 705 wins comes once in a lifetime”. The glove returns to the collec- physical level but psychologi- and 69 titles, including fi ve Common- He said Lee will be the chief of mission tion of its Italian owner, Ezio Sci- cally.” wealth Games gold medals, four All Eng- for the Malaysian contingent to the Tokyo me, a former record company It was not until years later that land victories and a record 47 Superseries Games. owner, who was in the front row Ali finally autographed the triumphs. As he began announcing his retire- of the fight in New York. glove when he was suff ering Lee’s unsuccessful attempts to capture Malaysia’s badminton player Lee Chong Wei poses with his wife Wong Mew Choo ment, Lee paused for almost a minute as “We had ringside seats, be- from Parkinson’s. Malaysia’s fi rst ever Olympic gold medal, after his news conference yesterday. tears rolled down his cheeks.

FOOTBALL Lippi eyes Brazilian strikeforce in China quick fi x AFP hind and it will be diffi cult for them to Lifan) have no Chinese ancestry and Shanghai make the (initial) qualifi ers.” would attempt to qualify under FIFA The Italian World Cup winner Lippi rules saying they must reside in their returned as China coach last month, adopted country for fi ve years. arcello Lippi’s China side just four months after leaving follow- None of the three has represented could soon boast an all- ing his side’s exit in the quarter-fi nals Brazil in a competitive match, leaving Brazilian attack as the am- of the Asian Cup. them free to play for China. However, bitious country ramps up The 71-year-old has long complained many fans have expressed deep res- Meff orts to reach the World Cup for just that, aside from Espanyol forward Wu ervations about having non-Chinese a second time. Lei, he has few attackers at his disposal. origin players representing the national Lippi last week gave a debut to former Bringing in overseas-born players to team. England youth international Nico Yen- quickly plug the gap was central to con- Elkeson has been in the Chinese Su- naris, the London-born midfi elder ditions laid out by Lippi for his return, per League since January 2013, when making a piece of history as China’s the Beijing News and other Chinese he joined then-champions Evergrande fi rst naturalised footballer. media say. from Brazil’s Botafogo. But China, who under football-fan “In the future it is likely that more In January 2016 he moved to Ever- President Xi Jinping have grand designs naturalised players will appear in the gande’s rivals SIPG and he has scored of hosting and even winning the World national football team,” said the Beijing 127 goals in 333 CSL games in total. Cup, are not done with drafting in play- News. Following Tuesday’s low-key 1-0 ers from other countries. The 26-year-old Yennaris, a former friendly home win over Tajikistan, Lip- Shanghai SIPG’s Brazilian striker Arsenal reserve, was given a warm wel- pi was coy about the prospect of calling Elkeson is expected to gain Chinese cit- come by Chinese fans when he made his up more foreign-born players. izenship in time to play in the autumn landmark debut in Friday’s 2-0 home “Of course, we hope to have more qualifi ers for the Qatar 2022 World Cup, friendly win over the Philippines. good players, we need good forwards,” the Beijing News said on yesterday. Unlike the trio of Brazilians, he he said. He could later be joined in a new- gained citizenship through his mother, “Wu Lei and Gao Lin (of Evergrande) look attack by his fellow China-based media publication said. essed and it is expected that he will be “Goulart, Fernando and others are who is Chinese. are very important forwards, but if oth- Brazilians Ricardo Goulart, also a strik- “It is understood that Elkeson’s nat- able to join the qualifi ers that begin in rumoured to be naturalised, but their Elkeson, Goulart (of Guangzhou Ev- er heavyweight strikers can join, then er, and the winger Fernando, the state uralisation procedures are being proc- September,” Beijing News said. procedures are relatively lagging be- ergrande) and Fernando (Chongqing of course that’s better.”