TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019 SPORT 07 Today I did a big mistake. It happens MotoGP World Champion sometimes. This is racing. It’s Marc marquez FOOTBALL disappointing ... I was inside my limit. after crashing halfway UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE QUARTER-FINALS - SECOND LEG I was riding a very good pace. I was through the Grand Prix of (10:00pm time) riding very smooth, trying to save the the Americas on Sunday. Barcelona vs Manchester United (Agg. 1-0) front tyre. But we are humans. ACTION Juventus vs Ajax (Agg. 1-1) TODAY’S

Bangladesh pick Karthik and Rahul to call Shakib back for World Cup, Pant ignored from IPL AFP DHAKA REUTERS Karthik was part of the Indian squad for the INDIAN SQUADUAD 2007 World Cup but was Bangladesh will ask star all- pipped young rounder Shakib Al Hasan to overlooked for 2011 and Rishabh Pant to the second wick- Virat Kohli ()aptain) return from Indian Premier 2015. etkeeper’s spot in India’s World (vice captacaptain)in) League and join the team’s Cup squad yesterday and all- World Cup preparation rounder Vijay Shankar also made Former India skipper Mahendra Singhngh Dhoni camp next week, the the cut. Mahendra Singh Dhoni, (wicketkeeper)er) nation’s Board said There was not much suspense yesterday. 37, led India to World Cup Shikhar Dhawanwan hanging over chief selector M S K Shakib is currently in glory at home in 2011 and Prasad’s news conference to Lokesh Rahul India with his IPL franchise would be playing in his announce a 15-member squad led Vijay Shankarr Sunrisers Hyderabad. by Virat Kohli as most of the fourth tournament. “Our camp is beginning. players picked themselves. Kedar Jadhavv I have asked to send a letter With Mahendra Singh Dhoni Dinesh Karthikk to Shakib immediately to the undisputed first-choice wick- South Africa in Southampton on come back. Let’s see how he etkeeper, the selectors preferred June 5. Jasprit Bumrahah responds to this,” said Karthik’s experience to the raw Teams have to submit their Hardik Pandyaa Bangladesh Cricket Board aggression of the 21-year-old 15-man squads by April 23 but president Nazmul Hassan Pant. injury replacements can be Ravindra Jadejaeja in Dhaka. “We felt Rishabh Pant or DK named until May 23. Yuzvendra Chahalhahal Shakib played just one will come into the playing XI only “We all debated and felt that game this season, picking if Mahi (Dhoni) is injured,” Prasad this is the best possible team that Kuldeep Yadavav up one for 42 runs told reporters, saying Karthik’s can give us the best possible Bhuvneshwarr KumarKumar in 3.4 overs against his superior keeping and reputation result. So there is no point in former franchise Kolkata Mohammed Shamihami as a “finisher” clinched it for the Lokesh Rahul changing it, unless someone is Night Riders. 33-year-old. injured,” Prasad added. It was the only compet- “In crunch matches, who can itive game for Shakib since be the best guy who can handle as a back-up opener, but could Dinesh Karthik returning from an injury he the pressure? For that reason, the also bat lower down the order, picked up during the Bang- decision went in favour of Dinesh Prasad said. ladesh Premier League final Karthik. Otherwise, Pant is full of Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra in January. talent, there’ll be time for him. It’s Chahal will share India’s slow In crunch matches, In a star-studded unfortunate for him that he bowling duties but the prospect of who can be the line-up featuring Aus- missed out.” a hot English summer also best guy who tralia’s David Warner, Eng- India boast a formidable top prompted the selection of spinning can handle the land’s Jonny Bairstow, New order including captain Kohli but all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. pressure? For Zealand’s Kane Williamson, the team have been searching for “In the last one-and-half and Afghanistan duo a reliable number four batsman years, it’s the two wrist-spinners that reason, the Rashid Khan and and Shankar beat Ambati Rayudu who have won us games,” Prasad decision went in Mohammad Nabi, Bang- to the spot. said of Yadav and Chahal. favour of Dinesh ladesh is concerned Shakib “What Vijay Shankar offers is “In the second part of the Karthik. Otherwise, might not get more three-dimensional,” Prasad said. tournament, might be a Pant is full of matches in the coming “Apart from his , he can bit more drier. That’s where we talent, there’ll be days. bowl and he’s a fantastic fielder... feel Jadeja will come in handy.” Unable to get enough We are looking at him as number remains time for him. It’s games, Shakib recently four. We have Dinesh Karthik and India’s first-choice all-rounder. unfortunate for him invited his personal coach Kedar Jadhav also, so we have The showpiece event in that he missed out: Mohammad Salahuddin to plenty of options at number four England and Wales starts on May Chief Selector, India in order to keep him right now.” 30. India begin their bid for a M S K Prasad ready for the World Cup. Lokesh Rahul made the squad third World Cup title against Bangladesh will start their preparation camp for the tournament on April 22 and the team will leave for the UK in early May. Smith, Warner return to Aussie squad They are scheduled to play a tri-nation tour- REUTERS nament in Ireland from May David Warner (left) and MELBOURNE 5-17. Steve Smith The World Cup will be The return of Steve Smith and held in the UK from May 30 David Warner to ’s squad Both (Smith and to July 14 with Bangladesh for the Cricket World Cup came Warner) are world-class starting their campaign as little surprise yesterday but players and it has been against South Africa at the selectors still managed to cause pleasing to see them Oval on June 2. a stir by omitting strike bowler Josh Hazlewood and in-form produce some good batsman Peter Handscomb. form in the IPL (Indianian Former skipper Smith and Premier League): Warner were eligible for Aaron Chairman of Selectors,ors, Finch’s side after their 12-month Trevor Hohns ball-tampering bans ended last month but their return put a squeeze on the batting positions that saw Handscomb drop out. AUSTRALIAN “Steve Smith and David Warner come back into the SQUAD squad. Both are world class players and it has been pleasing Aaron Finch (captain)n) to see them produce some good form in the IPL (Indian Premier Usman Khawaja League),” Chairman of Selectors, David Warner Trevor Hohns said in a Cricket Australia statement. Hohns said Hazlewood, who “Our focus is to have Josh Opener Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith Warner has registered five has instead been named in the back bowling at his best for the player-of-the-series in Australia’s Shaun Marsh 50-plus scores, including an Australia A team for their tour of commencement of a big Ashes ODI series victory in India last Glenn Maxwell unbeaten century, for Sunrisers England in June-July, remained tour.” month, was picked but may have Hyderabad in seven IPL matches a big part of Australia’s Ashes Starc and Richardson have to bat lower with Warner likely Marcus Stoinis this season while Smith, returning plans. both been selected subject to to partner Finch at the top. Alex Carey from an elbow surgery like his The quick, who has taken 72 fitness. Handscomb was left out former deputy, has also looked wickets in 44 one-dayers, has “The advice from the CA despite his good form and the Pat Cummins in good touch for Rajasthan been sidelined since January due medical team is they are pro- value he adds as a back-up Mitchell Starc Royals. to a back injury but had been con- gressing well and barring any set- stumper. Spinners Nathan Lyon and fident of being fit for the World backs will be available for Alex Carey has been named Jhye Richardson Adam Zampa have made the cut, Cup. selection ahead of our opening the sole wicketkeeper in the Nathan Coulter-Nilee with selectors going for the pace “Having not played at the match against Afghanistan on squad, which also contains all- of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, highest level for some time, we June 1,” Hohns said. rounders Marcus Stoinis and Nathan Coulter-Nile, Jhye Rich- feel this will provide him with the Teams have to submit their Glenn Maxwell. Nathan Lyon ardson and Jason Behrendorff, best preparation to get some 15-member squads by April 23 The tournament, being hosted who has been in fine form in the quality cricket under his belt,” but injury replacements can be in England and Wales, runs from Adam Zampa IPL. Hohns said. named until May 23. May 30 to July 14. 08 SPORT TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019 ‘Emotional’ Nadal inspired by Woods’ Masters triumph

AFP Grand Slam again, especially in MONTE CARLO Augusta, probably his favourite one, means everything for him. An “emotional” Rafael Nadal “I really know a little bit how hard (pictured) yesterday said he watched he worked to be back. I was very emo- spellbound as Tiger Woods rolled tional yesterday.” back the clock to win a fifth Masters Woods claimed a one-shot title and cap his comeback from back victory at Augusta on Sunday to win surgery. his 15th major title, but first since Spain’s world number two, a keen 2008. The Secretary-General of Qatar Sports Federation (QSF), Ali Al Hitmi (right), Abdulrahman Al Muftah (centre), Executive golfer himself, expressed nothing but Nadal, a 17-time Grand Slam Director of QSF, and Dr Salah Salem, QSF Technical Expert during a press conference at Al Bidda Tower, yesterday. admiration for Woods, who has fought champion, attended Woods’ Hero through at least as many physical World Challenge event in the challenges as he has himself. Bahamas in 2017, while the golfing “It was amazing,” Nadal said as great has watched Nadal play at the he prepared for his tomorrow’s start US Open on multiple occasions. Stage set for thrilling at the Monte Carlo Masters, his first Nadal seemed particularly struck event in a month since withdrawing by the fact that Woods celebrated his with knee issues at Indian Wells victory with his family on the 18th before a semi-final against Roger green. Federer. “The celebration of yesterday finals at Aspire Dome “I’m a big fan of him. Like I’ve said when he was walking with the family, hundreds of times, that he’s probably was one of the moments that I won’t THE PENINSULA The boys’ teams will “This SOP is a huge advantage for my favourite sportsman in the world forget.” DOHA fight for titles of football, schoolchildren. It gives them a platform since a long time ago.” The 11-time Monte Carlo basketball, volleyball, to showcase their talent,” he said. Nadal could not help but compare champion added that his own drive The Schools Olympic Program (SOP) is “We will leave no stone unturned his own yearsyears of fitness problems to to succesucceeded onon coucourtrt has nnotot dimidimin-n- bracing for a thrilling finish, with boys’ gymnastics and tennis in making the finals a huge success. The those of Woods, who has faced mul-mul- ished despite his history of injuries.injuries. teams gearing up to vie for top honours during Thursday’s finals. SOP has achieved a lot of success. This tiple back sursurgeriesgeries and other road-road- “I never needed an inspiration.inspiration. in five disciplines at state-of-the-art year we saw more participants and the blocksblocks wwhenhen it lookedlooked lilikeke hhisis I’ve always been able to come Aspire Dome on Thursday. level of competition has also raised,” career mightmight be closclosee to back, it’s nothing new for The details of event were revealed particular. “The Olympic program has he added. ending.ending. me. by the Secretary-General of Qatar a huge importance and it receives great Al Muftah also thanked Aspire for “T“Therehere hhaveave bbeeneen toutoughgh “I’v“I’vee beenbeen in Sports Federation (QSF), Ali Al Hitmi at attention from the officials of the Qatar their support in holding the event. years for him,” 17-time17-time comebackcomeback situationssituations a press conference held yesterday at Al Olympic Committee under the chair- “Aspire Academy is one of the most Grand Slam winner Nadal many times; II’ve’ve Bidda Tower. Abdulrahman Al Muftah, manship of His Excellency Sheikh Joaan important sports institutions in the said.said. “I cannot bebe happierhappier alwaysalways ddoneone well.well. Executive Director of QSF, and Dr. Salah bin Hamad Al Thani. One of the country. It contributes to the discovery aboutabout the victory ooff “One day it Salem, QSF Technical Expert were also important objectives of the program is of talent. It is not only that as it always yesterday.yesterday. won’t be the same, present. to establish the principle of sport for raises a slogan that actually appeared “If you imagine all but what hahappenedppened Al Hitmi informed that the boys’ all,” he said. today as a dream and a star tomorrow, thethe pprocessrocess andand allall thethe during the last teams will fight for titles of football, bas- Al Hitmi said the organising com- and Aspire has presented us with many hard worworkk thatthat hehe hadhad to year for Tiger is ketball, volleyball, gymnastics and mittee was expecting a full house, stars in various games,” he said. dodo to be back on a golfgolf anan inspiration for tennis during Thursday’s finals. saying invitation has also been extended On his part, Dr. Salem said Aspire course -- all the thingsthings that everyone.everyone. “Our preparations are on track and to dignitaries. plays an important role in the success he did...did... “He’s a good example we are looking forward to provide best “We are set to make it a big event. of the finals. “And, of passionpassion for ssport...port... facilities to the competing teams. We The invitation has been extended to “We are very fortunate to partner finally,finally, discipline,discipline, in terms wish success to all the competing stu- everyone, including the Ministry of Edu- with Aspire, where the Academy’s toto winwin ofof hard work... dents,” Al Hitmi said. cation, Higher Education and the Qatar excellent facilities and good play- a aandnd love for “We will be back at Aspire Dome Olympic Committee. We have also grounds help students to offer their best the game.” for the finals. We want to thank Aspire invited a delegation of UNESCO in Doha levels,” he said. for their cooperation which is playing to attend the finals and learn about the “Aspire Academy has many scouts a key role in success of the Olympic experience of the Olympic program,” who contribute to the discovery of program,” said Al Hitmi. said Al Hitmi. talent in various games and the work He pointed out that (SOP) is one of Meanwhile, Al Muftah said the SOP of different federations, which is the successful programs that serves provides a very good opportunity to stu- important for the program,” Dr. Salem Shapovalov falls at first sports in general and school sports in dents to show their skills. added. hurdle in Monte Carlo Qatar team AP Nadal has not played since pulling out impressive MONACO of his semi-final against Federer at Indian Wells last month because of an at MTB Race Denis Shapovalov’s clay-court campaign injury to his right knee. Nadal said got off to a poor start as he lost 5-7, 6-3, Monday he resumed practice two weeks in Croatia 6-1 to Jan-Lennard Struff in the first ago and feels fit. round of the Monte Carlo Masters Top-ranked Novak Djokovic faces THE PENINSULA yesterday. unseeded Philipp Kohlschreiber in the DOHA The 20-year-old Shapovalov arrived second round on Tuesday. Djokovic has after a good run on hard courts at the won eight of their 10 matches, but Kohls- Qatar’s mountain bike team Miami Open, where he lost to Roger chreiber recently beat him at Indian A Qatari pair concluded on Sunday its Federer in the semi-finals. Wells. celebrates impressive performance in But the Monte Carlo clay got the Also on Monday, 10th-seeded Daniil Mitas 4 Islands MTB Race which after reaching better of the big-hitting Canadian, Medvedev; No. 11 Marco Cecchinato; No. took place in Zagreb, Croatia the finish line seeded 15th. The unseeded German 13 Fabio Fognini, and No. 16 David Goffin and brought together cyclists of Mitas 4 picked apart his serve, converting six of advanced, but No. 12 Nikoloz Basilas- from 33 countries across the Islands MTB 16 break points. hvili went out. world. Race in Zagreb Struff next faces Grigor Dimitrov of Medvedev did not face a break point Qatar mountain bike team on Sunday. Bulgaria, who lost in the semifinals to in a 6-1, 6-1 win against Joao Sousa. displayed high level per- Rafael Nadal last year. Cecchinato, a French Open semifinalist formance in all four stages of Nadal, the defending champion, last year, was leading 4-0 when Damir the prestigious event. be handy for them in the unique stage race that by distinctive environments starts his bid for a record-extending 12th Dzumhur pulled out. The team showed their future. offers participants to bike and challenging trails of title tomorrow against fellow Spaniard Goffin won 6-1, 6-4 against qualifier endurance and experienced a Mitas 4 Islands MTB on 4 different islands within islands Krk, Rab, Cres and Roberto Bautista Agut, who won 3-6, Guido Andreozzi, but Fognini had a tough competition, which will stage race is inviolable a 4 consecutive days passing Lošinj. 6-1, 6-1 against John Millman yesterday. tougher match. QSL-backed Junior Stars League continues its activities

THE PENINSULA of Events Management at the QNB, as well DOHA as Reem Al Sulaiti and Ali Al Mulla from the QNB’s Events department. The Junior Stars League (JSL), sponsored by It was attended by a large number of stu- the (QSL), continued its dents and representatives of the programme, activities as part of the organisation’s who were keen to give the participating The participants Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) children and students guidelines on how to pose with the towards spreading the culture of football invest, thereby motivating them to join the officials after the among all sections of the society and forming programme. JSL round. constructive partnerships with many Some recreational activities were held community institutions and stakeholders. and football matches were played. Students A new round of the JSL event was held were presented with gifts. at the Doha College (Al Waab campus) They were also given educational and recently with the participation of represent- informative instructions. atives from the ‘Learn to Invest’ programme Mr. Nasser said, “This event was held in of Qatar National Bank (QNB), the largest connection with our JSL initiative. The ‘Learn financial institution in the Middle East and to Invest’ programme’s participation in it Africa. was commendable as the QNB is a strategic The event was attended by Nasser partner of the QSL. It allowed students to Mubarak Al Kuwari, Head of Community get a closer look at the programme that Relations at the QSL, Abdullah Arbabi, Head encourages a sense of investment among of CSR at the QNB, Ahmed Al Kubaisi, Head them.” TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019 SPORT 09 Woods resumes Nicklaus chase after dream run in Augusta

AP “The winn at Easts LakLakee wawass a bibigg performance.performance. WoodsWoooods wonwonn theretheree in AUGUSTA confidence bboosterooster ffororrmr mmeeeb bebecausecause 20002000 by a rerecordcord 15 shotshots,ts, eevenven withwi I had comee ccloselose laslastt yeyearar a coucocoupleouplele a tripletriplep bogbogeyey iinn ththee ththirdird rounround.nd.dT TenTenn No comeback by Tiger Woods was times,” Woodsods said.said. ““StillStill have toog getget yearsyearslas llalater,tter, he tiedided foror ffoufourtho rthh at tthehe ever going to be complete without a I thought for a long time it across thee fifinishnish linline,e, aandnd I didn’t USUS Open at Pebble,Pebblbb e,et threethree shotsshots major. quite do it.”” behind.behih nd.. The courcoursesurses area famifamiliar.m liarar. Now the question becomes how that he was going to So, imaginegine the effecteffect ofofwif winningwinning WoodsWoodW siss is familiarfamiliiliarwir withwith winningw inninninng mmajors.ajors. many more he can win. win again. The next two the Masters,s, especiallyespeciaialllly ththe way thithishii ButBtu it’sit’its nott thathatthtsit sisimple. implel . So much appeal of that red shirt majors are at Bethpage, one playedd out.out. Six playersplayers had at WoodsWoodWo s wawass 244 whewhenh nhen he won theth beneath a Green Jacket involved where he has won, least a sharee of the lead at one ppointoint USUS OOpenpen at Pebble, aandnd 2266 whwhenhen w wee looking back at all Woods had to on the back nine - fourfour ofof them majormajor wonwon at BethpageBethpage Black. Now he’s 43. overcome to reach that moment - a and at Pebble Beach, champions - and there was a five-five- AsAs ddynamicynamic as this MasteMastersrs wwasass Masters champion once again - that where he has won. So, way tie for the lead when the final for Woods, it was hard work and hhe so many thought would never he has got me shaking group was in the 15th ffairway.airway. neededneeded helphelp - ffromrom Molinari on tthehhe happen. in my boots, guys: Jack It was anyone’sanyone’s game until 12th12th and 15th hoholes,les, from a coupcouplelel The fourth surgery to rebuild his Francesco Molinari,Molinari, who earlier hit ofof good bounces out of the ttrees.reees. left knee. The private affairs that Nicklaus 8-iron in Rae’se’s CreekCreek on ththee 12th12th holehole ThThat’sat’s not unusual.unusual. EEveryvery mamajorjoor became public, shattering his image. for double bbogey,ogey, hit a wedwedgege ooffff a championchampion neeneedsds a bbreakreak or two. The balky back that required four tree limb andnd into the water on the GettingGetting to 18 is only eaeasiersieer more surgeries, the last one out of questions. For years, he could rarely par-5 15th thatthat lleded to doubledouble bbogey.ogey. becausebecause WWoodsoods is one major ccloser,loseer, desperation because he could barely get through any conversation without And thenn it becamebecame Woods’Woods’ game a co con-n- versationversation caddiecaddie JoJoeoe walk, much less play golf. someone asking him whether he - a two-putttt birdie to take the lead,lead, LaCava said they havhaveve And a new generation of stars he thought Woods could top his mark. an 8-iron thathat rolled down the slope shared.shared. inspired who were younger, stronger “I thought for a long time that he next to the hole for a sigsig-- “We’re“We’re onon and capable. was going to win again,” Nicklaus nature momentoment at thithiss 14 and I said,saidd, That’s why Woods celebrated his said on Sunday night on Golf Channel. Masters. ‘Let’s‘Let’s get ttoo 15th major like never before - fist “The next two majors are at “Well, I cancan win majorsmajjors 15.’15. pumps without a club in his hand, Bethpage, where he has won, and at now,” Woodsoodss because he couldn’t help himself Pebble Beach, where he has won. said withh a walking off the 18th green. So, he has got me shaking in my laugh. “Overwhelming,” he said with a boots, guys.” The voice still hoarse from all that The last part was delivered in jest. PGA Cham- screaming. The first part was factual. pionship iss He went 28 majors over 11 years Woods winning his fifth Masters a month awaywayway aat without winning, and no sooner did was not entirely out of the blue. He Bethpage BlaBBlack,ck, whewherehere he stretch his arms into that familiar capped the year of his great Woods was dominantdomminantt aass eveverveer Green Jacket - “Ah, it fits,” he said in comeback last year by winning the in going wire-to-wirere-to-wirwireie in thee 202002002002 Butler Cabin - was he asked about Tour Championship in typical Tiger US Open, andnd was rigrightighth t therehere witwiwithitthah a the 18 majors Jack Nicklaus won to fashion, by building a lead on a chance in thehe 20092000909U9 UUSS OpOpenpen eexceptxcept set the gold standard in golf. tough, fast course at East Lake and for a puttertterttt err thatthahat rerrefusedfusseed tot YouY ouu “I don’t know if he’s worried or not giving anyone much of a chance cooperate. cacan’can’t’t beb onn not,” Woods said. “I’m sure he’s home to catch him. He also briefly led And thenen it’it’st’s ththeheUSe US OpenOOpepeen inn JJunJuJuneunne 144 andand tthinkinghhinkhiinknkkiinginng aaboaboutbouboouout just chilling and watching.” Sunday in the British Open, and was at Pebble Beach.eachhh. Iff thet MMaMasMastersasterser isst thethee 18,”188,”8 LaCavaLaCLaaCavavaa a ssaidsaid...“ ““B“ButBuuttnt nnowowow Whether the record is in play, one shot behind on the back nine at most memorableorabor lel ofoffh hishiis 151 majors,majors, wewe ccanann sstarttatartartarrtt tataltalkingkinngng aababoaboutbbouutt Tiger Woods of the United States celebrates Nicklaus can expect plenty of the PGA Championship. Pebble Beachachch remainsrememmainsainns hiss gregreatestatest 16.1616.6. SoS w we’reee’e’ree getgeggettingttingtittiningngg cloccloser.”looserseser.ererr..” with the Masters Trophy on Sunday.

Tiger Woods of the United States is Tiger’s Masters triumph awarded the Green Jacket by Masters champion is a $22m win for Nike Patrick Reed (left) during the BLOOMBERG NEW YORK Green Jacket Ceremony on Sunday. Tiger Woods’s improbable Masters victory will reward the few companies that stuck with him through his struggles, and the ones that joined him when he was near the low point of his career. The 43-year-old won his fifth Masters title on Sunday by one stroke. It’s his first major victory in over a decade and just his second PGA Tour victory in more than five years. It’s also a win for his sponsors. During the final-round telecast, Trump, Serena join when he made a late charge, he generated more than $23.6m in exposure for various corporate partners, according to sponsorship analytics firm Apex Marketing Tiger Twitter frenzy Tiger Woods’ family, daughter Sam Alexis, son Charlie Axel, mother Group. Kultida Woods (left) and girlfriend Erica Herman (right) smile as he Bob Dorfman, a sports mar- keting executive at Baker Street approaches them after he won the 2019 Masters. AFP Tida, Sam, Charlie, Erica and the rest Advertising, cited Woods’s ability AUGUSTA of the team behind 18 green. Couldn’t to bring even casual fans to their Woods was once making has had to look elsewhere for ball be happier for him! What a great day televisions. $30m per year from Nike, and club partners. President Donald Trump and Barack Obama for golf!” “He moves the needle like no Forbes Nike shares rose as much as 1.2 were among those hailing Tiger Woods on other golfer does or ever has done,” according to , but percent to $87.24 in New York social media after his 11-year major drought Jack Nicklaus Dorfman said, comparing Woods’s in 2016 the company trading yesterday. The effect was ended by a thrilling and emotional “A big ‘well done’ from me to @ legendary status to that of Michael announced it would stop extended to golf brands uncon- Masters victory on Sunday. TigerWoods!. I am so happy for him and Jordan. making golf clubs, balls nected to Woods: Callaway Golf Co. US President Trump for the game of golf. This is just “Nobody can do what he does gained as much as 4.1 percent, “Congratulations to @TigerWoods, fantastic!” and it’s amazing he’s been able to and bags. while Titleist parent Acushnet A truly Great Champion!” do it for as long as he has.” Holdings Corp. was up as much as Gary Player Woods’s return to the center of 3-year-old Woods listing his golf 4.2 percent. Former President Obama “For most an impossible task. But golf’s biggest stage will probably aspirations. During Sunday’s final round “Congratulations, Tiger! To come not for you. Congratulations Tiger. So drive added interest in pro golf for “To think a 43-year-old who telecast on CBS, Woods’s prom- back and win the Masters after all the special for you and your family. So great awhile and generate even more has experienced every high and inent placement was a boon to highs and lows is a testament to for the game of golf. Simply attention for his corporate partners. every low, and has just won his 15th many of those brands. Nike saw excellence, grit, and determination.” unbelievable.” It will also renew debate over major, is chasing the same dream $22.5m in exposure, according to whether a healthy Woods can as a 3-year-old,” the video says. Apex. Monster received $960,000, Serena Williams Magic Johnson return to the dominance of his early No company is more closely while Bridgestone saw $134,000. “I am literally in tears watching @ “A big BIG congratulations to @ career, when he single-handedly associated with Woods than Nike, Those numbers will increase as TigerWoods this is Greatness like no TigerWoods for winning the Masters!! boosted golf’s status around the which signed him when he turned highlights and print media push other. Knowing all you have been The roar of the Tiger is back!” world. pro back in 1996 and built its golf images of Woods’s win across the through physically to come back and Woods now has 15 major titles, business around his stardom. globe. They’ll also jump at later do what you just did today? Wow Tom Brady three shy of Jack Nicklaus’s record Woods was once making $30m tournaments that receive a Woods Congrats a million times! I am so “Congrats Tiger! What a per- 18. per year from Nike, according to boost in viewership and attention. inspired thank you buddy.” formance. “Greatest comeback story In the moments after Woods’s Forbes, but in 2016 the company At the height of his career, in sports!” final putt on Sunday, longtime announced it would stop making Woods was making $110m per year Rory McIlroy sponsor Nike Inc. released a video golf clubs, balls and bags. Nike is as the world’s highest paid athlete, “Very few people really know what Stephen Curry congratulating him on the feat, and still Woods’s apparel partner -- the including that $30m from Nike, @TigerWoods has been thru to get back “Congrats @TigerWoods Let me hold highlighting his push to pass red Nike shirt he wore on Sunday according to Forbes. Last year the to this point,” So cool seeing him with one of those 5 jackets one time!” Nicklaus. is a familiar sight for most fans -- magazine reported his earnings as The video uses audio from a but over the past few years Woods $43.3m. 10 SPORT TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019 Hamilton peerless, Vettel favoured: Five things from the Chinese GP

AFP SHANGHAI

Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton climbed to the Mercedes’ British driver top of the drivers’ championship with a Lewis Hamilton celebrates dominant victory at the 1,000th Formula on his car after winning One race. the Chinese Grand Prix in Here are five things we learned from Shanghai on Sunday. Sunday’s Chinese Grand Prix:

** Hamilton still the man: Much of the pre-season talk was about the superior pace of Ferrari in testing and then, after Valtteri Bottas won the season- opening race, the threat to Hamilton from his Mercedes team-mate. But the reigning world champion roared back, winning in Suzuki rider Alex Rins celebrates after winning the Grand Prix of Bahrain and now China to top the standings. the Americas in Austin, Texas, on Sunday. Pic@suzukimotogp Hamilton’s classy victory, having started second behind Bottas, shows that he remains the man to beat.

** Vettel remains Ferrari top man: Charles Leclerc has been earmarked as Rins bags first a potential champion while team-mate Sebastian Vettel is a four-time world title Ferrari drivers by finishing fourth in time for qualifying. Miraculously, Albon winner under pressure after a string of Shanghai. Pierre Gasly was sixth but had the drove to 10th place, earning an unlikely point MotoGP win unforced errors. But the German remains consolation of grabbing the bonus point for and the “driver of the day” accolade. the priority for Ferrari, said team principal the fastest lap after pitting for fresh tyres Mattia Binotto, and proved it by ordering a near the end. Red Bull will keep pressuring ** China basks in milestone: disgruntled Leclerc out the way in Shanghai. the two front-running teams and are looking Traditionalists were eager to see the after Marquez Vettel grabbed his first podium of 2019 as good to finish at least as the best of the rest. 1,000th championship race moved to Eng- Leclerc came fifth. Leclerc may be the future, land’s Silverstone, where it all began in 1950. but Vettel is the present. ** Albon shows his talent: That was never really on the cards, according crashes out London-born Thai driver Alexander to Formula One chiefs, who say that China, ** Red Bull best... of the rest: Albon had an eventful weekend. The along with the United States, is a major Before the weekend, Mercedes and 23-year-old Toro Rosso rookie was fortunate growth market. It may not be the most glam- AP seven-time former series Ferrari talked up the threat posed by Red to walk away unscathed after a heavy smash orous race on the calendar, but Shanghai is AUSTIN champion at the track’s elevated Bull and so it transpired that Max Ver- into a wall in final practice. He was cleared now a staple in the season and could well switchback left turn at the first stappen, who finished on the podium in Aus- to race but started from the pits after his be joined by a second China race on the MotoGP’s Spanish king of Texas corner. tralia behind the two Mercedes, split the mangled vehicle could not be repaired in streets. has been dethroned, replaced “When I was behind Val- by his countryman. entino, I was saying, ‘C’mon Six-time defending race Alex, you need to drive. You champion Marc Marquez need to do a bit of a spectacle,’” ‘Plenty of crashed his Repsol Honda Rins said. halfway through the Grand Prix “When he made a small of the Americas on Sunday, mistake I overtook him.” homework’ opening the door for Suzuki’s Rossi hasn’t won since 2017. Alex Rins to snatch his first He stayed close enough for one for Ferrari career MotoGP victory. final move to pass Rins at the “It was unbelievable,” Rins same corner where Marquez AFP said. “I tried to stay calm on that crashed, but couldn’t hold the SHANGHAI last lap.” position. Marquez had been so dom- Rins had won at the track in Sebastian Vettel said Ferrari inant in six consecutive wins at Moto2 and Moto3 but was had much “homework” to do the Circuit of the Americas that winless in his two previous after a team orders controversy other riders had dubbed him seasons in MotoGP and Suzuki capped a disappointing track royalty. And he was well hadn’t won at the top level since weekend at the 1,000th on his way to another easy 2016. He now stands third in the Formula One Grand Prix held victory when he went spinning season championship and Rossi in China. and tumbling through the corner considers him a contender for The Italian marque have at the end of the long straight. the title. shown superior straight-line Marquez was all by himself “When Marc crashed I was speed this season, but Mercedes in the lead when he fell, stunning surprised. I tried to ride at the have taken first and second in the field behind him and the maximum. We were fast, (but) all three races so far in a run crowd that was so used to seeing at the end Rins was faster,” Rossi that has surprised even cham- him dominate the Texas track. said. “For sure he is an opponent pionship leader Lewis He tried to get his motor- for the title. He rides very clever British Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton (second right) of Mercedes GP, Finnish Valtteri Bottas (left) Hamilton. cycle restarted but gave up when he’s very smooth with of Mercedes GP and German Sebastian Vettel (right) of Ferrari are seen on the podium after placing The reigning world he saw his foot brake was everything.” first, second and third respectively in the Grand Prix of China at Shanghai International Circuit in champion seized control of the damaged, and then collapsed The fall knocked Marquez Shanghai, China, on Sunday. drivers’ standings with victory onto the ground on his back in from first to fourth in the season ahead of team-mate Valtteri a dramatic gesture of frustration championship after three races Bottas in Shanghai on Sunday, before he was driven back to his as he chases his sixth title in while Ferrari’s challenge dis- In-form Mercedes looking garage. seven years. Ducati’s Andrea solved behind them. “Today I did a big mistake,” Dovizioso, who finished fourth Ferrari’s Vettel was third Marquez said. Sunday and won the season- but Charles Leclerc finished “Sometimes happens. This opening race in Qatar, is the fifth after the 21-year-old rising more dominant than ever is racing. It’s disappointing... I championship leader with Rossi star was controversially was inside my limit. I was riding second. ordered to make way for his REUTERS Ferrari during the golden era started to tail off. This weekend, a very good pace. I was riding Four riders are now within senior team-mate, a four-time LONDON when they won six successive they were a bit up and down. very smooth, trying to save the nine points of the lead as the world champion. constructors’ titles and Michael “I think we’re over-deliv- front tyre. But we are humans. series heads to its European Vettel bristled at questions The first three races of the Schumacher five championships ering a little bit at the moment Mistakes are there.” heartland, starting with the next over the team orders to Leclerc, Formula One season have made in a row between 2000-04. to our true potential but there’s Rins had started on the third race in Spain. but much of his frustration will a mockery of pre-season predic- The last team to start a still more to come,” he added on row in seventh and was running “It’s been a long time since I stem from Ferrari’s continuing tions that Ferrari would set the season with three successive Sunday. third behind Yamaha’s Valentino win and it was a great oppor- inability to get the best out of pace and leave Mercedes strug- one-twos was Williams, with Ferrari were quicker down Rossi when Marquez crashed. tunity,” Rossi said. “(But) these their car. gling to keep up. Nigel Mansell and Riccardo the long main straight in China He passed Rossi with four laps points are important for the “In terms of calls from our The standings may not tell Patrese, in 1992. but Mercedes, whose engine has to go by cutting under the championship.” pit wall today, the priority the full story, and luck has And yet five times champion been the best of recent years, always lies within the team and played a part, but on paper Mer- Lewis Hamilton, team mate gained through the corners. 2019 Austin MotoGP - Race Results Charles and I are both aware cedes are more dominant than Valtteri Bottas and principal Toto China was seen as a track we are driving for the team,” ever while Ferrari have fallen Wolff were still talking about where Ferrari would have the Alex Rins ESP Suzuki Ecstar (GSX-RR) 41m 45.499s Vettel, 31, told reporters after well short of expectations. luck, small margins and tough upper hand but it was Mercedes Valentino Rossi ITA Monster Yamaha (YZR-M1) 41m 45.961s the race. “We’ve soon got to stop battles ahead after winning whose drivers lined up first and Jack Miller AUS Pramac Ducati (GP19) 41m 53.953s “We can do our own race talking about Ferrari this, Ferrari Formula One’s 1,000th world second on the grid. A Dovizioso ITA Mission Winnow Ducati (GP19) 41m 54.919s but first of all we have to ensure that, Ferrari amazing power... championship race. “Our car is maybe a bit F Morbidelli ITA Petronas Yamaha SRT (YZR-M1) 42m 3.520s Ferrari is in a position to fight because they are not delivering,” “Considering it was a real draggier than theirs,” said Wolff. D Petrucci ITA Mission Winnow Ducati (GP19) 42m 6.975s with its rivals. said former Grand Prix driver struggle this weekend, I’m really “On the speed and power we F Quartararo FRA Yamaha SRT (YZR-M1)* 42m 11.610s “I think we have a good car and Sky Sports commentator grateful for the result, said Ham- need to leave no stone unturned Pol Espargaro ESP Red Bull KTM Factory (RC16) 42m 15.242s and we are still not able to Martin Brundle. ilton, Sunday’s winner. but in terms of managing the Francesco Bagnaia ITA Pramac Ducati (GP18)* 42m 16.107s unlock its potential Mercedes, the team that have The Briton was right to point tyres, the downforce levels Takaaki Nakagami JPN LCR Honda (RC213V) 42m 16.510s completely.” won every championship for the out it would have been a dif- helped obviously.” Maverick Viñales ESP Monster Yamaha (YZR-M1) 42m 19.576s Meanwhile Hamilton and past five years, completed a hat- ferent story if Charles Leclerc’s The champions also got their A Iannone ITA Factory Aprilia Gresini (RS-GP) 42m 20.278s his team principal Toto Wolff trick of successive one-two fin- Ferrari had not lost power while strategy spot on, double-stacking Johann Zarco FRA Red Bull KTM Factory (RC16) 42m 27.957s were baffled by Ferrari’s failure ishes at Sunday’s Chinese Grand leading in Bahrain but ‘could their drivers brilliantly in a Miguel Oliveira POR Red Bull KTM Tech3 (RC16)* 42m 29.771s to push them harder in Prix. have, would have, should have’ seamless pitstop on Sunday, Tito Rabat ESP Reale Avintia Ducati (GP18) 42m 30.122s Shanghai. The only reason Mercedes never won anything. while Ferrari invoked team Karel Abraham CZE Reale Avintia Ducati (GP18) 42m 30.239s “I’m not really sure where cannot claim a perfect start is the “I’m just not sure they’ve orders in a move that Joan Mir SPA Suzuki Ecstar (GSX-RR)* 42m 33.562s they are losing out, but they’re introduction this season of a really hooked up a proper solid backfired. Hafizh Syahrin MAL Red Bull KTM Tech3 (RC16) 42m 53.182s gaining something like 0.4 point for the fastest race lap, weekend just yet,” said Ham- The battle for supremacy is Did not finish: seconds on the straights but with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc ilton, now back in the overall between Mercedes and Ferrari, Jorge Lorenzo ESP Repsol Honda (RC213V) losing out on corners,” said quickest in Bahrain and Red championship lead. with Honda-powered Red Bull Marc Marquez ESP Repsol Honda (RC213V) Hamilton, who feels that Mer- Bull’s Pierre Gasly in Shanghai. “It was looking like it was challenging for podiums, but Cal Crutchlow GBR LCR Honda (RC213V) cedes are “over-delivering a Otherwise, they have done going to be a solid weekend for Ferrari leave China with more Aleix Espargaro ESP Factory Aprilia Gresini (RS-GP) little bit”. something that escaped even them in Bahrain and then it pressure on them. TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019 SPORT 11

Juventus’ Portuguese forward Cristiano Barca and Messi look Ronaldo juggles with a ball during a training session yesterday at the Continassa Training Center in Torino, on to set record straight the eve of their UEFA Champions League AFP Barcelona defender Gerard Pique (left) and quarter-final second BARCELONA midfielder Arturo Vidal attend a training session leg match against Ajax at the Joan Gamper Sports Center in Sant Joan Amsterdam. Four years have passed since Despi on the eve of the Champions League second Lionel Messi last reached a Cham- leg quarter-final match yesterday, pions League semi-final and his drought has become a source of unease for Barcelona ahead of their latest attempt today. Manchester United are the ones looking to emulate Atletico Ronaldo raring Madrid, Juventus and Roma by sending Barca out in the quarters for a fourth year running but for to have a go the Catalans, another failure would be unforgivable, not least because of the implications for at Ajax in CL their captain. “Last season we did the double AP but we all felt bad about how it MILAN went in the Champions League,” Messi said in August. A rested Cristiano Ronaldo is a dangerous Cristiano Ronaldo. “We promise this season we show a decade swallowed up by UEFA Champions League Atletico Madrid last month only Just ask Atletico Madrid. will do all we can to bring that Real Madrid, whose domestic enhanced the sense this tour- Ronaldo took some time off before the second leg of the Fixtures for this week beautiful cup back to Camp Nou.” failings in that period have been nament belongs to him. last 16 in the Champions League and responded with a hat trick Barcelona’s dominance in Spain exonerated by four Champions Today’s Fixtures (CET/GMT) Messi is not one to complain, against the Spanish team as Juventus overturned a 2-0 deficit. Juventus vs Ajax (2100/1900) has been shaped by Messi, who League triumphs in five years. particularly given he cannot be He was again left out of the squad on Saturday - along with Barcelona vs Manchester only this month overtook Iker “Obviously it’s infuriating,” blameless in Barca’s undera- a number of other regulars - ahead of the quarterfinal return United (2100/1900) Casillas as the player with the Luis Suarez said. “Madrid have chievements in Europe. match against Ajax today. most La Liga victories, 335, in its made history and it’s a thorn in Tomorrow’s Fixtures (CET/ But the fans are frustrated, Against Spal in Serie A, Juventus had only two players in its history. our side.” GMT) with last season’s double doing starting lineup that began in the 1-1 draw in Amsterdam. The Those wins have helped them Messi’s record is similarly Porto vs Liverpool little to ease the disappointment team needed only one point to secure a record-extending eighth capture seven of the last 10 league unbalanced. He has nine La Liga (2100/1900) of the collapse against Roma. straight Serie A title. The second-string team lost 2-1. titles, a figure that will surely titles and is by a distance the com- Manchester City vs Tottenham And his teammates feel it too, However, with six league games remaining, Juventus coach become eight from 11 next month, petition’s top scorer, with an Hotspur (2100/1900) the weight of history on their Massimiliano Allegri wasn’t too perturbed - even it means the given their nine-point lead at the astonishing 414 goals. shoulders from a need to square club cannot surpass the Serie A record of 102 points it set in top of the table. Cristiano Ronaldo, closest in arguably the game’s greatest ever 2013-14. There could be an historic fifth second, has 311. The game’s most illustrious player with a Champions League “Making records is very difficult, you have to spend energy consecutive Copa del Rey too if But in the Champions League, pair could yet meet in this year’s haul that befits that status. and there is also Europe to concentrate on,” Allegri said. Ernesto Valverde’s side beat Messi has lifted the trophy four final, should Barca capitalise on “It is an important trophy,” “If we had put to put all our starters in, it would have been Valencia on May 25. times, a relatively modest return their 1-0 first-leg win over United Suarez said after following up the easier to win it, but there is the goal to obtain today. But in Europe, Barca would given it puts him on a par with 11 and then overcome either Liv- league title by winning the Copa “We have made 27 victories, three draws and two defeats appear under-marked, with only current Real Madrid players alone, erpool or Porto in the semis. del Rey last season. and this is an impressive record.” one success in the last seven years, including Nacho, Casemiro and Ronaldo and Juventus, mean- “But this does not hide what After playing Ronaldo in almost every match in the first half three in 10 since Pep Guardiola Dani Carvajal. This year, Ronaldo while, would have to beat Ajax, happened in Rome.” It means the of the season - even while being accused of raping a woman took charge in 2008 and set in is hunting his sixth. and then either Manchester City pressure on Barcelona in this in 2009 in the United States - Juventus is realizing how best to motion what has felt, in playing And while Messi dwarfs the or Tottenham. A showdown in competition runs deep, a psycho- use the 34-year-old Portugal forward. terms at least, like an iconic era. Portuguese for goals in La Liga, Madrid would throw an even logical burden that perhaps In his last two seasons at Real Madrid, Ronaldo was pacing The list of clubs etched onto the opposite is true in Europe, brighter glare on Messi’s record United, or their next opponents, himself, skipping games that he would have normally played the cup hoisted at the Wanda Met- where Ronaldo has 125 goals to compared to Ronaldo, whose will use to their advantage. For in previous years, and that meant he peaked at just the right ropolitano on June 1 will instead his 108. sensational hat-trick against Messi, there is work to do. time. Ronaldo scored one goal in his first six Champions League matches for Juventus - and also got his first red card in the com- petition. He has four goals in his past two games. Ronaldo had an enforced rest before the first leg of the Solskjaer will use ‘gut feeling’ to pick quarterfinals after injuring a thigh muscle two weeks previ- ously while playing for Portugal. He returned for the match in Amsterdam and scored Juventus’ goal. In Ronaldo’s absence, teenager Moise Kean has been given United team for Champions League more of a chance and has thrived. Kean has scored six goals in his past six matches for Juventus and Italy’s national team and REUTERS change, I need to do this, he being focused and taking a deep Allegri hinted he might have a role to play against Ajax. BARCELONA needs to play’ and it turned out breath and taking those chances.” “Everyone is needed on Tuesday, even on a mental level,” ok.” United lost the home leg The Nou Camp has an added Allegri said, “and that’s why it’s important to have Kean in these Manchester United manager Ole against Paris St Germain in the significance for Solskjaer after he conditions.” Gunnar Solskjaer (pictured) will previous round 2-0 before scored a stoppage-time winner in AC Milan coach Gennaro Gattuso apologized for his players let his “last little gut feeling” turning the tie around in the the 1999 Champions League final after their 1-0 victory, and Lazio midfielder Francesco Acerbi decide his starting line-up for French capital, and Solskjaer is against Bayern Munich at the accused his opponents of “stirring up hatred.” today’s Champions League hopeful his players can serve up stadium in United’s treble- In a match vital to both teams’ chances of qualifying for quarter-final, second leg against a repeat at the Nou Camp. winning season. next year’s Champions League, tension was high in the buildup, Barcelona. “Belief is massive in football. “That goal has been men- including a spat on social media after Acerbi said Lazio was Alexis Sanchez and Nemanja Everyone’s got talent, a certain tioned a few times, yes,” the “better man for man” than Milan. Matic were part of United’s ability to play, but we’ve seen our- 46-year-old said. Acerbi seemingly tried to put an end to the matter by 22-man travelling squad as they selves against PSG that we can “So many people have con- swapping shirts with Tiemoue Bakayoko after the match, but look to overturn a 1-0 first-leg come back from being 2-0 down gratulated me and talked to me the Milan midfielder and teammate Franck Kessie waved it in deficit. against a fantastic team,” he told about that night. They say ‘it was front of their supporters like a trophy. Chilean forward Sanchez, who reporters at the pre-match news the best night of my life but don’t “I am disappointed because I swapped shirts to put an end scored 47 times in 141 appear- conference. tell my wife’ -- that kind of to the matter,” Acerbi posted on twitter. “Stirring up hatred is ances for Barca between 2011 and “Historically Barcelona is the thing.” not sport, but a sign of weakness.” Gattuso soon apologized. 2014, has not featured since best side from the last 10 years so United’s short-term target is “You don’t do these things,” the Milan coach said. “A pro- picking up a knee injury against we know it will be a massive to secure a Premier League top- fessional player should use social networks as little as possible Southampton last month, while effort. four finish and qualification for and instead concentrate on doing an extra hour of training.” Matic is recovering from a muscle “If we give our all and have a the Champions League, but Sol- Both Kessie and Bakayoko later apologized to Acerbi on social injury. little bit of concentration... Belief skjaer wants the club to compete media, saying they only wanted “to joke.” There was also a “I’ll have my last little gut is one thing, concentration and for major honours next season. He brawl immediately after the final whistle, with several members feeling on who to play,” Solskjaer effort is another thing.” stressed it was important to have of the bench joining in. told the BBC. Solskjaer also demanded question in football, who can score strong characters in the dressing Milan is in fourth place and the final Champions League “Because against PSG I had more from his forwards, who the goals,” the Norwegian said. room. spot. It has six more points than eighth-place Lazio, which has a team in my mind when we failed to trouble Barcelona goal- “We’ve been practising finishing, “If you want to win, if you played a match less. travelled in the morning, walk keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen in but when you don’t work the want to play at Man United you The two teams will meet again at the San Siro on April 24 out into the stadium, see the the first leg. keeper you can’t score. have to have a personality,” Sol- in the second leg of the Italian Cup semifinals. The first match stadium and you say ‘nah, I’ll “That’s the 100 million dollar “For us it’s about confidence, skjaer said. ended 0-0. Chess: Amulya clinches Qatar Primary Schools title

THE PENINSULA FINAL STANDINGS DOHA Aashika Sudha and Public School and Indian Aakanksha Neeraj to School shared the third maintain her supremacy. spot. Rank/Name/Nationality Indian chess prodigy, Neeraj won the silver A total of 76 players, 1: Guruprasad Amulya IND Amulya Guruprasad had a medal of the competition including 21 Qatari girls 2: Neeraj Aakanksha IND brilliant unbeaten run to winning five out of her six under the age of 12, repre- clinch the Qatar Primary rounds (25.0) while Qatari senting 20 schools, took 3: Qassabi Rawda QAT Schools Chess title for girls, player Rawda Qassabi fin- part in the yesterday’s 4: Qassabi Layan QAT at the Jawaan Bin Jassim ished third. event, organised by the 5: Pinto Crizelle IND Model Independent School Doha Modern Indian Qatar School Sports Asso- 6: Gopalakrishnan for Boys yesterday. School won the team ciation and Qatar Chess Amulya beat her com- championship with 11 Association Sudiksha IND patriots, Ann Mary Thomas, points ahead of Newton The boys’ tournament 7: Sudha Aashika IND Pooja Rajkumar, Shreya British Academy, Barwa will take place at the same 8: Gireesh Shivapriya IND Junior players taking part in the Qatar Primary Schools Chess Tournament for girls, Sandeep, Crizelle Pinto, was placed second. Birla venue today. 9: Sivaananth Ayshwarya IND at the Jawaan Bin Jassim Model Independent School for Boys, yesterday. SPORT Tuesday 16 April 2019 PAGE | 07 PAGE | 09 Smith and Woods resumes Warner return Nicklaus chase for Aussie World after dream run in Cup squad Augusta

The draw ceremony of the 47th Amir Cup at Kempinski Marsa Malaz Woods rises in in The Pearl-Qatar, yesterday. PICTURES: BAHER AMIN/THE PENINSULA rankings after magnificent Masters win

AFP PARIS

Tiger Woods continued his stunning rise up the world rankings yesterday by officially returning to the top 10 for the first time since 2014 after his dramatic fifth Masters win. The 43-year-old climbed six spots to sixth after a one- shot victory at Augusta National which crowned one of the greatest comeback stories in sport with a first major title since the 2008 US Open. Johnson reclaimed the Second Division clubs world number one ranking from Rose just a week after losing it to the Englishman, thanks to his tied-second finish behind Woods as Rose missed eye upsets in Amir Cup the Masters cut for the first time in his career. WORLD TOP 10 ARMSTRONG VAS AMIR CUP Salah as to whom they will face 1. Dustin Johnson (USA) 10.01 average pts (+1) THE PENINSULA SECOND ROUND: in the next round while Al April 20: Al Shamal vs Umm Salal Gharafa take on the winner of It’s a new beginning for 2. Justin Rose (ENG) 9.20 (-1) Second Division sides Al April 20: Al Wakrah vs Al Khor the Al Wakrah-Al Khor clash. 3. Brooks Koepka (USA) 8.96 (+1) Shamal, Al Wakrah SC, April 21: Al Markhiya vs Al Al Arabi coach Heimir Hall- 4. Rory McIlroy (NIR) 8.32 (-1) Muaither SC and Al Markhiya Kharaitiyat grímsson, for whom this is his Al Arabi: Hallgrímsson 5. Justin Thomas (USA) 8.04 SC will be looking to spring a April 21: Muaither vs Qatar SC first season in Qatar, said his 6. Tiger Woods (USA) 7.74 (+6) few surprises against the big Third round: team will be looking forward to CHINTHANA WASALA 7. Francesco Molinari (ITA) 7.43 guns of the QNB Stars League April 26/27: the competition. THE PENINSULA 8. Bryson DeChambeau (USA) 7.24 (-2) (QSL) in the 47th edition of the Al Shamal/Umm Salal vs Al Arabi “I would not say whether the 9. Xander Schauffele (USA) 6.56 (+1) Amir Cup when they began Al Wakrah/Al Khor vs Al Sadd draw is a tough or an easy one. Al Arabi coach Heimir Hallgrímsson 10. Rickie Fowler (USA) 6.00 (-1) their campaign in the second Al Markhiya/Al Kharaitiyat vs Al All the teams are good and yesterday said that the Amir Cup tour- round of the prestigious cham- Shahania strong,” said the 51-year old, who nament will be a new beginning for pionship. Muaither/Qatar SC vs Al Ahli joined Al Arabi in December last his team. Pandya's The draw ceremony for year. “It’s a new start, a new beginning. Qatar’s most popular football QUARTER-FINALS: In the other second round When I came in January, the league cameo hands tournament took place yes- May 2/3: matches, Al Shahania coach, (QNB Stars League) was finished for terday at an impressive cer- Al Shamal/Umm Salal/Al Arabi which gained promotion to QSL Al Arabi more or less. So we’ve been Bangalore emony where the top officials vs last season and performed trying do a lot of things, experimenting another defeat of Qatar Football Association Al Wakrah/Al Khor/Al Sadd exceedingly well to finish with new tactics. So hopefully we can Al Arabi coach Heimir (QFA) were present. vs Al Sadd seventh in the League, will take show our best in this competition,” the Hallgrímsson QFA President Sheikh Al Markhiya/Al Kharaitiyat/Al Shahania on the winner of Al Markhiya SC former Iceland coach told The IANS Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed vs Al Duhail and Al Kharaitiyat match. Peninsula on the sidelines of the draw MUMBAI Al Thani headed the ceremony Muaither/Qatar SC/Al Ahli Al Shahania coach Jose ceremony of the Amir Cup yesterday. that also saw the attendance of vs Al Sailiya Murcia was happy with his Hallgrimsson, who took charge of the Al Arabi outfit after Hardik Pandya's (37 unbeaten members of the Executive team’s performance in the QSL leaving the Iceland post and guiding his country to their first off 16) quickfire cameo down the Committee of QFA, Ahmed and was keen to extend the World Cup finals last year, signed a one-and-half-year contract order handed Royal Challengers Abdul Aziz Al Buainain, Sheikh SEMI-FINALS: May 11 and 12 impressive run in the Amir Cup. with the Qatari Club which clinched the sixth spot in the QSL Bangalore their seventh defeat

Ahmed bin Hamad Al Thani, FINAL: May 16 “I have given some rest for standings. this season as Hani Taleb Balan and Mansour the players after finishing the QSl Hallgrimsson, 51, was not worried about Al Arabi’s perform- won their Al Ansari, Secretary General of This year’s final will Competition. We will give out ances during the QSL, but said his team will hopefully produce (IPL) tie at the Wankhede QFA. be held on May 16 at best in the Amir Cup as this is a better performances. Stadium by five wickets Players and officials of the prestigious event. I have told my “(Al Arabi’s performance during the QSL can be defined as) yesterday. 16 clubs were also present. The Wakrah Stadium. players to enjoy the game and good and bad. Like life. Sometimes you win. Sometimes you lose. Chasing a competitive 172 ceremony began with an give their best and not be under But I think if we exclude the last game against Al Duhail, in which for victory, Rohit Sharma (28 off official explaining the format The final will also bring pressure,” said the Spaniard. we lost 3-0, our performances were much better. Of course, Al 19) and gave a of the draw. A video was also down the curtains on the In the third stage of the tour- Duhail is a much better side, but if we take that game out, we had perfect start to Mumbai's innings, played to recapture the chief nine-month long football nament, Al Arabi, Al Gharafa, Al a really good performance. Even during the three games against taking them to 52 for no loss in moments from last year’s Amir season in Qatar. Shahaniya and Al Ahli will take Al Rayyan, Al Gharafa and Al Ahli, which we lost, we played well. the initial five overs. Cup. on the winners of the second So I think our performance was good, but it didn’t produce enough Moeen Ali was the first to The tournament pits the round. The matches will be wins. So hopefully during the Amir Cup, we can produce good strike as his off-break four Second Division teams played at Thani bin Jassim performances and win,” Hallgrimsson said. clattered Sharma's stumps, against the QSL teams in the the match between fourth and Stadiumdiium andd GranGrandrannd HaHamadamad In their first match of the Amir Cup, Al Arabi, on April 26, leaving Mumbai at 70/1 in the second round of the event. fifth-placed teams of the Stadiumdiumm on April Aprilill 262 andand 27.27. will meet the winner of the second round clash eighth over. The Amir Cup kicked off Second Division, have been TheThe winnerwinnw ner ofof thethe MuaitherMuaithere between Al Shamal and Umm Salal. It seemed Mumbai would last week with one match drawn to face Umm Salal, at vs QatarQatataaar SCSC tiee willill tktaktakee ono Al “This is a tough competition. All the suffer a batting collapse at one already held. There will be five Thani Bin Jassim Stadium while Ahli.i. teams here in Qatar are very good like stage, but it was Pandya who stages in the most popular Al Wakrah face Al Khor at the Thehee topp four teateamsmmss ooff thetthe anywhere else. At one point, we will made sure to help his team cross football tournament in the same venue in a late fixture. QSL,L,, AAll RRaRayyan,aayyan,an AAl SSadd,aadadd, have to face them. So we are quite sat- the line as the all-rounder and country. A day later, Al Markhiya SC Duhailhhaill aandndd AAll SaSailiya,iliilililiyiya,, hhaveave isfied with the draw. In the end it is his brother Krunal Pandya (11 off Al Shamal joined the other face Al Kharaitiyat, the side rel- beenn hahanhhandeddedededd aab bbybyee iinn the always going to be how well you play 21) took Mumbai to 148 before top three teams of the Second egated from QSL and Muaither competitionmppetetitittiti ioiononon andanndnd willwiwilililllll pplplayay against the top teams,” Hallgrimsson the latter became a victim of Division into the second round square up to Qatar SC at Grand againstinstn t ththe teamtteamssqus ququalifyingualifyingyiningngg said. Mohammed Siraj. matches of the competition and Hamad Stadium, in the coun- fromm thethheh tthiththirdhih rddrd rroundoundouundun in theth “During my stay here, my only job With 22 needed off the last will vie against clubs that fin- try’s most popular football quarter-finalsartteeer--finaf lsl aatt GrGrandrandana d is to make Al Arabi a better team. At couple of overs, Pandya showed ished from ninth to twelfth in tournament which bring Hamadmaad StStadiumtadium andananddAb AbAAbdullahbdulddulllllaha Al Arabi club, we take things very seri- his cameo with the bat as he the QNB Stars League. together teams from the QSL bin KhalifaKhhalh ifffaa StSStadiumttaada iuumum onon MayMaayy 2 ously. It’s a big club with a lot of history smashed Pawan Negi for the Teams which finished fifth and the Second Division. andd 3.3. behind it. But Al Arabi has not won any required runs in just an over to to eighth in the QSL have been The event offers a chance BothBoBotth the semsemi-finalsemii-i-finnalsalalsa s big trophies for a long time. But we know help Mumbai register their fifth seeded into the third round to lower division teams to test matchesatcchehes willwi taketake placeplaccece at it’s going to take time to change a whole win this season. while the top-four clubs from their mettle against the big guns Jassimsimm bbiniinn HamadH amadamaaammadadd StadiumSStStataaddidiudiumum onon lot. I like the people around the club. They Earlier, AB de Villiers' scin- the QSL have been handed a in a bid to be present in the final Mayayy 12122a aandndd 13.13.3 are very ambitious and I think if we con- tillating knock (75 off 51) with bye into the quarter-finals, on May 16. ThisThihiisi yeayyear’se r’sr’ finalfinanaallw willwwilll beb eeh heldheheldd tinue working like this, it won’t take a long Ali's 50 off 32 propelled Ban- organisers said. Teams which make it past on MayMayay 16166a ata WakrahWakWWakrahrah Stadium.StadStaStaa ium.um.umm.m time until Al Arabi fight for titles again,” galore to 171/7. The second round matches the second round will face the Thee finfifinalinnal willwilll alsoa lsosos brinbrbbringrini ggdo ddodownownwn Hallgrimsson, who is also a former Brief scores: will be held at Thani bin Jassim fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth- thee curtainscurcuurtrtainsi ono theththe nine-monthninen -monmononnthh dentist, said. Mumbai Indians: 172/5 in 19 Stadium and Grand Hamad placed teams of the QSL. longngng fofootballoootbaltbatbb l seseasonason in Qatar.QataQatQ t rr. Asked if he has any new recruitments overs (Quinton de Kock 40, Stadium on April 20 and 21. Accordingly, Al Arabi will LastLasasstst yeayear,r, AAll DuhailDuhailhaih wono the in mind, Hallgrimsson burst into laughs Hardik Pandya 37 ; Moeen On April 20, Al Shamal, be waiting for the winner Amirmirir CupC defdefeatingfeating AlAl RaRayyanyyanyyyayy and said: “Yeah, but I’m not going to Ali 2/18) beat Royal Challengers which overcame Mesiameer, in between Al Shamal and Umm 2-1.11. tell you.” Bangalore: 171/7 in 20 overs (AB de Villiers 75, Moeen Ali 50; Lasith Maling 4/31) by 5 wickets.