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TUESDAY 10 SEPTEMBER 2019 SPORT 07 I am playing tennis because I US Open champion love to play tennis. I can’t just FOOTBALL think about Grand Slams. Rafael Nadal says after FOOTBALL European Championship Tennis is more than Grand securing his 19th Grand European Championship Qualifying, Group B: Slams. Slam title. Qualifying, Group A: ACTION Lithuania vs Portugal

England vs Kosovo TODAY’S Legend Yao takes the blame for ’s setbacks

AFP in need of an overhaul, raising popularity in China and raised Chinese basketball icon Yao BEIJING hopes of a resurgence in China’s expectations of a strong run at Ming watches the Basketball most popular sport. their home World Cup. Basketball legend Yao Ming said But the hosts failed to qualify “It is me who disappointed World Cup Group A game he blamed himself for host It is me who for the last 16 after losing to the fans,” NBA Hall-of-Famer between Venezuela and China nation China’s poor perform- disappointed the Poland and Venezuela before the Yao said after the game. in Beijing on Wednesday. ances at the Basketball World fans. The fans had Sunday’s reverse against the “The fans had great expec- Cup after their latest chastening great expectation for Africans in Guangzhou. tation for China at the World defeat on Sunday. Asked in a press conference Cup, but we could not make it.” Sunday’s 86-73 loss to China at the World after the Nigeria game who took “(The World Cup) is a Nigeria in the classification Cup, but we could not responsibility for China’s poor window for us to look out the round for teams outside the top make it: Yao Ming performance, a grim-faced Yao world. The gap between China 16 means China have failed to responded “Me”, before walking and the world-leading basketball qualify for the Tokyo Olympics away. countries has been enlarged.” directly from the World Cup, just became president of the Chinese Former Houston Rockets All- Holders the United States are days after the shock of crashing Basketball Association in 2017 Star Yao led China to some of through to the quarter-finals out at the group stage. pledging to reform a state devel- their best results in global com- after beating Greece in Shenzhen The popular former NBA star opment system he said was badly petitions, fuelled basketball’s on Saturday. Basketball World Cup Age-defying Scola propels Greece demand bans Argentina towards glory AFP Venezuela in the second round. medal, although Serbia will Speaking in an unmis- present a mighty challenge takably American accent, a despite losing to Spain on for referees after exit Luis Scola is 39, his hair has product of spending a decade Sunday. That same day, Scola more than a few streaks of grey in the NBA up until 2017, Scola shared the court with the and at the Basketball World added: “I understand eve- youngest player in the tour- AFP Cup in China he has shared the rybody talking about my age, nament, Poland’s 18-year-old SHENZHEN court with rivals half his age. but my brain does not function Aleksander “Olek” But Argentina’s evergreen that way. Balcerowski. Greece are calling for the offi- is playing a big part in “I am not going to the court Scola had said that what cials who oversaw their final the country’s bid to win the and thinking, oh my god, I’m happens at the World Cup will game at the Basketball World world crown for the first time older than these guys, or, oh my dictate if he would carry on for Cup to be banned after NBA MVP since the first edition in 1950. god, these guys are five, 10, 15 the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Giannis Antetokounmpo and his He was named player of the years younger than me. Doing so would have a nice team exited the tournament game in Sunday’s 91-65 victory “To me, it’s natural.” symmetry because he is the amid rancour yesterday. over Poland, drilling 21 points However much he tries to only remaining member of the Greece’s coach said that star to propel Argentina into a avoid it, talk about his age and Argentina team that stunned man Antetokounmpo had been quarter-final showdown with how much longer he can plod the USA on the way to Olympic the victim of a lack of “respect” title-contenders Serbia today. on for is never far away. gold at Athens 2004. after being fouled out in the The forward was also Scola, who spent the last He was also in the team 84-77 victory over the Czech named best player against two seasons in Chinese bas- which won silver at the 2002 Republic. Nigeria for registering a ketball, is featuring in a record- World Cup. The Milwaukee Bucks double-double, scoring 23 equalling fifth World Cup. Asked what it was like to standout picked up a ques- points and 10 rebounds. Last week he reached now be the grandfather of a tionable, fifth foul midway Greece’s Giannis Antetokounmpo (centre) goes to the basket The last member of Argen- another milestone when his team whose average age is 27, through the fourth quarter and during the Basketball World Cup match against Czech Republic tina’s so-called “Golden Gen- heroics against Nigeria moved younger than most other even though Greece won, it was in Shenzhen, yesterday. eration” who won the Olympics him up to second on the FIBA rosters at the World Cup, Scola not by the margin of 12 or more in 2004, Scola has won every World Cup all-time scoring list, replied: “This is not like a tour points that they needed. They reached the magic at the World Cup in China. FIBA major trophy in international trailing only the legendary Bra- or a goodbye week. A team spokesman con- 12-point lead, only for the Czechs on Sunday removed from the basketball, except the World zilian Oscar Schmidt. “This is a world champi- firmed that the Greeks were to immediately hit back to competition blundering match Cup. If that was a proud onship and we are trying to go writing to governing body FIBA narrow the deficit once more, officials who made an error in the “What age are you talking moment, there is the growing all the way to the medals. seeking a ban for the three ref- then came the loss of the dying seconds of Lithuania’s tour- about, I’m 28, right?” he joked prospect that Argentina could “We don’t do maths with erees in charge. 24-year-old Antetokounmpo. nament-ending loss to France, but after Argentina swatted aside be in for a shout of at least a the ages.” “Also (a ban) for those who He was seen remonstrating the result was allowed to stand. nominate the referees and also with the officials after Greece’s The crucial mistake occurred watch the video and announce fate was sealed, but overall, the with the French leading just The last member of Argentina’s Luis Scola the results,” the spokesman said reigning MVP was not on the top 76-75 at the time. Argentina’s so-called celebrates after victory over in a text message. of his game at the World Cup. The Czechs now need a USA ‘Golden Generation’ who Russia in Wuhan on Thursday. Greece, chasing the big win Antetokounmpo had 12 victory over Brazil later Monday won the Olympics in 2004, they needed to reach the points, nine rebounds and four to reach the quarter-finals. Scola has won every major quarter-finals, were up by 10 assists before his afternoon -- Skourtopoulos made the sur- points with just over eight and Greece’s tournament -- prising admission that he and his trophy in international minutes left. came to an early end. coaching team had failed to get basketball, except the “He came every day to fight the most out of the so-called World Cup. Greece are calling on the court, of course he did not “Greek Freak”. for the officials who get the respect he wants and I “It’s the first time we had him oversaw their final mean about the two fouls he with us with this status of MVP, game at the Basketball received today, the third and the in these 25 days we tried to do World Cup to be banned fifth,” said Greece coach Tha- the best we can... I can say after NBA MVP Giannis nasis Skourtopoulos. maybe we did not make the “You cannot call these kinds correct options. Antetokounmpo and of fouls on this kind of player. “We worked very hard to his team exited the “That’s finished because I support him.” He added: “I am tournament amid don’t like to talk about the ref- sorry because we disappointed rancour. erees too much.” It is not the first a lot of fans in Greece and fans controversy involving referees who supported us here.” Rugby: US opt for extra forward in World Cup squad

REUTERS “We think that the They play their opening youngest to ever play in a US SQUAD NEW YORK attrition for this rugby match against one of the World Cup. The US have World Cup, especially our tournament favourites played in all but one World David Ainu’u, Malon Al-Jiboori, Nate The United States have pool, is going to take it out in Kobe on Sep- Cup since the event’s Brakeley, Nick Civetta, Cam Dolan, opted to select an extra of our forwards, so we’ve tember 26. inception in 1987 but have Dylan Fawsitt, , Hanco Ger- forward in their 31-man gone with an extra forward. The US squad features never won more than one mishuys, James Hilterbrand, Olive squad for the World Cup in “We’ve got good depth players who have accumu- game in a single Kilifi, Tony Lamborn, Titi Lamositele, Japan. in almost every position, I lated 677 test caps between campaign. , Paul Mullen, Gregor Announcing the squad think we’re well covered. them, including 10 who Yet the Eagles will head Peterson, , John on Sunday, coach Gary Gold Where I think we are very have played in a previous to Japan encouraged by the Quill, Joseph Taufete’e Backs: explained that he had made lucky is that we’ve got quite World Cup and three way they came from , , Mar- the decision in the expec- a few guys who can play in selected for a third cam- behind to claim a dramatic cel Brache, Bryce Campbell, Shaun tation of an attritional multiple positions.” paign -- captain Blaine 20-15 victory over Canada Davies, , , World Cup. The US Eagles are in a Scully, Eric Fry and Thretton in Vancouver on Saturday, Martin Iosefo, , AJ

“We’ve gone with 18 tough Group C with Palamo. their third win over their MacGinty, , Thretton Pala- forwards and 13 backs,” England, France, Argentina In 2007, Palamo, a North American rivals this mo, Mike Te’o. Gold said. and Tonga. centre, was at the time the year. 08 SPORT TUESDAY 10 SEPTEMBER 2019

Four reasons Unchanged why Australia Joe Root lacks feel for England to retained the assess Stokes’ Ashes fitness Australia retained the Ashes captaincy, says Boycott AFP after a 185-run win over England in the fourth Test at REUTERS Old Trafford on Sunday left LONDON England will assess star all- them 2-1 up with one to play rounder Ben Stokes’ fitness to in the five-match series. Joe Root came out fighting after bowl in this week’s fifth Test Here are the key reasons Australia retained the Ashes with with Australia at the Oval as why Australia are keeping a thrilling victory in the fourth they look for a consolation win hold of the Ashes: test at Old Trafford on Sunday after failing to regain the Ashes. ’s runs: This but questions remain about his Stokes was included in an series is destined to be known effectiveness as captain. unchanged 13-man England as ‘Smith’s Ashes’ as surely as The 28-year-old cut a rather squad announced yesterday the 1981 campaign became forlorn figure as Australia cele- following a 185-run defeat in synonymous with England brated moving 2-1 ahead in the the fourth Test on Sunday that great . series but insists he is still the ensured Australia would keep Star batsman Smith’s right man to lead England hold of the Ashes at 2-1 up with series figures speak for them- forward. one to play in the five-Test selves -- 671 runs at 134.2 This week’s Oval test offers series. including three hundreds, Root the chance of at least Durham paceman Stokes, with a highest score of 211 at avoiding becoming the first England’s vice-captain, did not Old Trafford. England captain to lose a home bowl in Australia’s second And yet they don’t tell the series against Australia since innings at Old Trafford fol- whole story. Mike Atherton suffered that fate lowing a shoulder injury sus- This is Smith’s first Test in 2001 - a result that prompted tained during his 11th over in series since he completed a his international retirement. the tourists’ first innings. 12-month ban for his role in a While Root remains Eng- England’s Joe Root ahead If Stokes is unfit to bowl at ball-tampering scandal in land’s best batsman and is still of the fifth day of the the Oval, where the fifth Test South Africa that cost him the in his prime, not all are con- fourth Ashes Test on starts on Thursday, he is Australia captaincy. vinced that he is getting the best Sunday. England lost the expected to play as a specialist But the 30-year-old’s first out of his team mates with his Test by 185 runs. batsman -- it was his stunning Test innings since suspension decision-making during the four 135 that saw England to saw him score 144 at Edg- tests so far against Australia a dramatic one- win in baston, a hundred that helped being questioned. the third Test at Headingley. Australia recover from 122-8 “Joe Root is such a likeable and South Africa and away in Sri when Australia were wobbling match away from us. As much In that case, England would -- and he followed that up lad, a quality batsman and Lanka. on 63 for four to leave the door as we all love Joe it seems he look to bring in a bowling all- with 142 in the second innings nobody wants to hurt or But England were thrashed slightly ajar. does not have a feel for the rounder from within the squad of a match his side eventually humiliate him but I’m afraid he by Australia in 2017 and this year Australia went on to declare nuances of the game.” in either Sam Curran, who won by 251 runs. lacks any feel for captaincy,” lost a series to West Indies for on 186 for six to leave England Boycott believes the England would be playing on his Surrey In a campaign when top- former opening batsman and the first time since 2009. fighting in vain for a draw. and Wales Board (ECB) home ground, or Chris Woakes. order batsmen on both sides respected pundit Geoffery There is also a concern that “Jofra Archer bowled fast will be wary of taking the cap- England squad for fifth have found runs hard to come Boycott, who had a short spell as his is being undermined and with great skill taincy away from Root but his Test: Rory Burns (Surrey), Joe by, Smith, now back on top of captain in 1977-78, told the Daily by the responsibility of and intensity, the atmosphere criticism is echoed by another Denly (Kent), Joe Root (York- the Test batting rankings, has Telegraph yesterday. captaincy. was electric with the crowd former captain Nasser Hussain. shire, capt), Jason Roy (Surrey), been operating on a different “His captaincy has been very He has failed to score a urging England on to bowl them “It’s been clear in this game Ben Stokes (Durham), Jonny plane despite missing Eng- disappointing and he has to seri- century in the ongoing Ashes out cheaply,” Boycott said. that Root has felt let down by Bairstow (Yorkshire, wkt), Jos land’s dramatic one-wicket ously think about whether he is series, made three ducks and “But after tea Joe opened the some of his bowlers, especially Buttler (Lancashire), Craig win in the third Test at Head- suited for the job and whether it averages only 30. bowling with Craig Overton and on the first day,” Hussain told the Overton (Somerset), Jofra ingley with a concussion. is affecting his batting.” Boycott, however, is more Jack Leach and his field settings Daily Mail. Archer (Sussex), Jack Leach “I thought Virat Kohli was Root’s record since taking concerned with Root’s failure to beggared belief. “But he knows the buck stops (Somerset), Stuart Broad (Not- the best batsman I’ve ever over as captain from Alasdair seize on crucial moments during “All the intensity, aggression with him. tinghamshire), Chris Woakes seen because of the way he Cook two years ago has seen the current series -- pointing to dissipated. Joe just stood at slip “It’s up to the captain to get (Warwickshire), Sam Curran plays in all forms, but Steve series wins at home against Saturday’s afternoon session watching (Steve) Smith take the the best out of his team.” (Surrey) Smith... That’s another level,” said Australia coach . Anderson absence: Much of England’s pre-Ashes Smith is best player I’ve seen, says Paine planning revolved around having their attack led by all- AGENCIES average innings of 134.2, Steve Smith after Australia won the fourth Ashes Test time leading wicket-taker MANCHESTER including three hundreds, at the Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester, on Sunday. James Anderson. despite missing England’s one- But the fact he bowled just Australia captain BELOW: Australia’s Tim Paine after the fourth Test wicket win in the third Test at four overs in the series before hailed Steve Smith as the best against England. Headingley with concussion. breaking down with a calf player he has ever seen after the “I’ve been here a few times injury at Edgbaston arguably star batsman picked up the man- when things haven’t gone our cost them the chance to make of-the match award following way,” he added. “This was the most of their early domi- victory in the fourth Test against always one to tick off my bucket nance in that match. England on Sunday. list. It’s extremely satisfying. Australia’s fast bowling The home side, set a huge “We thought we would get depth Australia came to second-innings target of 383 to our eight chances. I thought England determined to do win, were bowled out for 197, (Craig) Overton was exceptional everything they could to com- putting Australia 2-1 up in the but fortunately the boys got the pensate for the possibility of five-Test series ahead of next job done. I am incredibly proud having a fast bowler breaking week’s finale at the Oval. of how I have performed and down by including a quintet The result means current what I have helped the team of pacemen in their squad holders Australia retain the achieve.” whom they could rotate Ashes regardless of the result in Australia captain Paine told alongside off-spinner Nathan the final match of the series. the BBC he was overcome with Lyon in a four-man attack. Smith scored 211 and 82 in emotion. It’s a policy that has paid the game to take his tally for the “The amount of work that’s dividends with the out- series to an astonishing 671 runs tried to go on in to retain the standing , Josh at an average innings of 134.2, Ashes has been enormous and Hazlewood and including three hundreds, I’m really proud of this group and -- the trio deployed at Old despite missing England’s one- how we bounced back from Trafford -- kept on their toes wicket win in the third Test at showed that again in this Test best batsman I’ve ever seen Headingley,” he said. by and James Headingley with concussion. match. He knows the game so because of the way he plays “The atmosphere, I was just Pattinson. “I’m not sure I have ever well and reads it so well.” in all forms, but Steve Smith... saying to the guys, at every Catches win matches: played better,” Smith told Sky Australia coach Justin Langer That’s another level. ground has been unbelievable. Australia have been better in Sports. also hailed Smith, who tops the “He’s a great problem- The noise they make here and the field this series, with “I have enjoyed my time in global Test batting rankings after solver. His hunger for the the passion they have for cricket and the middle. I have come back returning from a 12-month ball- game, I’ve never seen any- makes this moment all the more leading the fresh from a year out, but relaxed tampering ban. thing like it.” special. We’re thrilled. This is way at short leg, while the first and chilled out. I want to be the “We’ve got the best fast “It feels amazing to know what we came here to do, to take innings at Old Trafford saw one in the middle doing my job bowler in the world (Pat the urn is coming home,” the Ashes home. We’ll have a Archer drop a caught and for the team as I don’t particu- Cummins) and the best Test former captain Smith told Sky bloody good night tonight bowled chance when Smith larly enjoy watching cricket.” batsman in the world,” he told Sports. together and celebrate but we’ll had made 65 while Jack Paine said: “Steve is the best Sky Sports. Smith has scored an be back on deck next week. We Leach’s no-ball then also cost player I have ever seen. He “I thought Virat Kohli was the astonishing 671 runs at an want to win the Ashes 3-1.” England an opportunity to get rid of the Australia star. World Cup hangover: Playing a World Cup -- which England won -- and an Ashes Root wants to stay on as England captain in the same season with just a short gap between the two AFP Root in Australia in 2017/18. But Australia’s “Whenever you lose a series it hurts have to make sure I keep getting this team may have made commercial MANCHESTER 185-run victory in the fourth Test at Old and I have to take that on the chin. It’s still in the best shape to win as many games sense to English cricket chiefs Trafford on Sunday left them with an very raw. “You have to look at areas you as possible.” but it left several of their Joe Root is in no doubt he should remain unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match want to get better at, both in yourself and This was England’s first defeat in an senior batsmen with precious as England’s Test captain despite presiding series ahead of next week’s finale at the as a team. Old Trafford Test since 2001 and Root, little time to get acclimatised over their first failure to win a home Ashes Oval. “But I have been given a fantastic one of several players also involved in this to the very different demands series in 18 years. “Definitely, yes,” the 28-year-old said opportunity to captain the Test side and season’s World Cup triumph, has little of . England were looking to regain the when asked if he still felt he was the right will continue to work very hard doing my time in which to revive flagging spirits Ashes after a humiliating 4-0 loss under man for the job. best at that. That is in my control and I ahead of Thursday’s start at The Oval. TUESDAY 10 SEPTEMBER 2019 SPORT 09 ‘We urned it’: Aussie pride restored in Ashes triumph

AFP SYDNEY

Australia’s cricketers have restored national pride by Australia’s Nathan Lyon celebrates after taking the retaining the coveted Ashes wicket of England’s Jofra Archer on Sunday. trophy following a repu- tation-shattering cheating scandal, according to the country’s media who Lyon adamant bragged: “We urned it.” Eighteen months ago, Australian cricket hit rock Ashes jeers just bottom when then-captain Steve Smith, his deputy and opener ‘white noise’ Cameron Bancroft were involved in a brazen attempt AFP to alter the ball with sand- MANCHESTER paper in a Test. It rattled the game, Nathan Lyon has insisted crowd taunts had no effect sparking a clean-out of as he bounced back from the disappointment of a major executive ranks at Cricket error to help Australia retain the Ashes. Australia, long bans for the The off-spinner, a key figure in Australia’s 251-run three guilty players and the win in the first Test at Edgbaston, found himself rou- resignation of then-coach Australian players celebrate their victory in the fourth Ashes Test on Sunday. tinely mocked on social media and in person after he . missed a chance to run out last man Jack Leach before Justin Langer was England completed a dramatic one-wicket victory in appointed to help restore success and not a lot of agonising third Test loss at The Sydney Morning former skipper the third Test at Headingley. faith in Australian cricket happy times. But we are Headingley. Herald said it will always be said “there’s no superlatives That result left the Ashes all square at 1-1, with Lyon and bring cultural change to beginning to get them and Retaining the Ashes was remembered as “Smith’s left” to describe his exploits. on the receiving end of ironic cheers every time he a team that was infamous that is awesome.” built on the back of the Ashes”. Smith has scored an gathered the ball cleanly during the fourth Test at Old for its abrasive attitude. Fox Sports screamed incredible batting prowess “Despite missing one- astonishing 671 runs at an Trafford. The team struggled to “We urned it” in its main of Smith, whose return for and-a-half Tests, he has made average innings of 134.2, But Australia’s 185-run success in Manchester com- adjust, but under the lead- headline, while broadcaster the series after serving his enough runs for three including three hundreds, pleted Sunday meant they kept hold of the Ashes at 2-1 ership of “accidental Channel Nine said the one-year ball-tampering batsmen and more than twice ahead of the fifth and final up in a five-Test series ahead of this week’s finale at captain” Tim Paine and with “ghosts of Leeds” had been ban showed how badly he as many as any other on Test starting later this week the Oval in south London. greats and buried, referring to their had been missed. either side,” it noted, while at the Oval. The 31-year-old Lyon did not seem that impressed recruited as with the taunts at the time but, speaking to travelling mentors, they have come out Australian media, he said: “To be honest with you, you the other side. hear it for the first over or two then it just becomes “With coach Justin white noise. Langer, and the planning of Ponting hails ‘relentless’ bowlers “When you’re a professional sportsman, your job team staff that stretches is to come out and bowl well, and compete against back two years, the Aus- AFP ignored. “I think they (Aus- and (Nathan) Lyon, match of Sunday’s last day before whoever you’re playing,” added Lyon, Australia’s third- tralian team under Paine has MANCHESTER tralia) should have had a that up with the England being dismissed for 197, most successful all-time Test bowler with 359 gone beyond just restoring bigger lead, not just on the attack. There were more having been none for two in 90 matches. that pride,” said the Sydney Former Australia captain back of Steve Smith,” holes in that England attack after Cummins took two “I didn’t really feel it or hear it at the back end so it Daily Telegraph. Ricky Ponting said that the Ponting, one of the best than the Australia one. wickets in two balls, said doesn’t worry me.” “They have become tourists’ “relentless” batsmen of his generation, “They were relentless much about their resolve. Australia will win their first Ashes series in England winners in their own right, bowlers deserve as much told Sky Sports. in everything they did.” But Hussain, the last for 18 years if they avoid defeat at the Oval, with Lyon and everyone loves a credit for retaining the “Everyone is talking Meanwhile, ex-England England captain to fail to saying: “Right now, it probably hasn’t sunk in, but as a winner.” Ashes as Steve Smith. about what impact he has skipper Nasser Hussain win an Ashes series on home kid growing up, and as soon as I got my Baggy Green The Australian news- The world’s top-ranked had, but the whole bowling said Australia deserved to soil in 2001, said the hosts (Australian cap), the biggest goal in my career has been paper said the team were Test batsman, Smithmith has department has been keep the Ashes. could have no complaints to win the Ashes away. “almost purified by their been in superb formorm tthishis absolutelyabsolutely outout-- ThatThat EnglanEnglandd given they had lost the “We’re 2-1 up and I want to go 3-1 up, and when we victory”. Ashes with 6711 runs, standing.standing. Look at took the ggameame intintoo opener by 251 runs and then hold the urn up at the Oval it’s going to be an amazing “After the sorrows and including three hundreds,undreds, the difference in the finalfina only drawn level thanks to feeling.” setbacks of the last 18 at an average of 134.20.34.20. thethe bowlinbowlingg hhourou Ben Stokes’s stunning months, the country’s Smith made a com-com- attacksattacks in this century that secured a one- cricket has something to cel- manding 211 in Australia’sustralia’s game.game. wicket win in the third Test ebrate at last,” it added. 185-run victory in tthehe “(Mitchell)“(Mitchell) Starc at Headingley. After Sunday’s 185-run fourth Test at Old TTrafford,rafford, (pictured)(pictured), (Pat)(Pat) “There has been victory at Old Trafford on a result that left themhem 2-1 Cummins,Cummins, ((Josh)Josh) progress,” said Hussain. When you’re a professional Sunday to retain the Ashes up with just one to play HazlewoodHazlewood “You can’t fault the sportsman, your job is to come urn, an emotional Paine ahead of next week’sk’s finale.finale. character and resilience of out and bowl well, and compete praised the character of his But Ponting -- twicewice a this England side. Other against whoever you’re playing. I players. losing Ashes sserieseries England sides would have “I couldn’t be more captain in Englandand in just crumbled in a heap. didn’t really feel it or hear it at the proud of the way our group 2005 and 200909 -- “But the problem is back end so it doesn’t worry me: have handled everything insisted the bowlers’wlers’ they often find themselves Australian spinner Nathan Lyon thrown at them,” he said. efforts should nnotot bebe 10 for two, 20 for two.” “We haven’t had a lot of 10 Sri Lankan players opt out Rashid leads Afghans to famous Test win of Pakistan tour REUTERS SCOREBOARD CHATTOGRAM Afghanistan first innings 342 AFP first innings 205 COLOMBO Rashid Khan picked up six Afghanistan second innings 260 second innings wickets to lead Bangladesh second innings Ten Sri Lankan players, including T20 Afghanistan to a famous Liton Das lbw b Zahir ...... 9 skipper Lasith Malinga and former 224-run win over Bangladesh Shadman Islam lbw b Nabi ...... 41 captains Angelo Mathews and Thisara in the maiden Test match Mosaddek Hossain c Asghar b Zahir ...... 12 Perera, have pulled out of an upcoming between the two sides in Chat- Mushfiqur Rahim lbw b Rashid ...... 23 tour of Pakistan citing security concerns, togram yesterday. Mominul Haque lbw b Rashid ...... 3 officials said yesterday. Racing against time to The Sri Lanka Cricket board said in complete a win with less than Shakib Al Hasan c Zazai b Zahir ...... 44 a statement that players in a preliminary four overs left in the weather- Mahmudullah c Zadran b Rashid ...... 7 squad were briefed on security arrange- hit match, the longest-format Soumya Sarkar c Zadran b Rashid ...... 15 ments for the six-match limited over rookies bundled out the hosts Afghanistan’s cricketers and team officials pose with their trophy, yesterday. lbw b Rashid ...... 12 series, and given the freedom to decide for 173 in their second innings Taijul Islam lbw b Rashid ...... 0 if they wanted to travel. amid a drizzle and fading light. play white-ball cricket. Playing your batting, that’s what to chase on a spinning track. Nayeem Hasan not out ...... 1 Following the briefing, ten players The 20-year-old Rashid, only their third Test match matters in Test cricket.” Once Afghanistan reduced Extras (b4, lb2) ...... 6 “chose to stay away” from the series of who became the youngest Test after being inducted as a Test- Rahmat Shah’s 102 - the Bangladesh to 136-6 in the Total (all out; 61.4 overs) 173 three One-Day Internationals and three captain ever during the one-off playing nation two years back, first century in the format by second innings, the fate of the Fall of wickets: 1-30 (Liton), 2-52 (Mosad- T20 games, scheduled to begin on Sep- match, took six for 49 in the it was the second victory for an Afghanistan batsman - and match was almost decided but dek), 3-78 (Mushfiqur), 4-82 (Mominul), tember 27 in Karachi, it said. second innings to finish with the strife-torn country. a 92 from Asghar Afghan for the intervention of bad 5-106 (Shadman), 6-125 (Mahmudullah), The other seven who opted out were 11 wickets in the match to go “We are new in this format, allowed the touring side to post weather. 7-143 (Shakib), 8-166 (Mehidy), 9-166 (Tai- Niroshan Dickwella, Kusal Perera, with his knock of 51 with the total credit goes to the 342 in the first innings. “All credit goes to Afghan- jul), 10-173 (Soumya) , Akila Dananjaya, bat in the first innings. coaching staff and the players Rashid and Nabi, who took istan but at the same time we Bowling: Yamin 4-1-14-0, Nabi 20-5-39-1, Suranga Lakmal, Dinesh Chandimal and Rashid was adjudged the for this victory,” Rashid said at 3-56 in the first innings, then also have to do a lot of work Rashid 21.4-6-49-6, Zahir 15-0-59-3 Dimuth Karunaratne. player of the match, which he the presentation ceremony. combined to skittle Bangladesh hard. After playing for 20 Result: Afghanistan won by 224 runs The Sri Lanka team’s tour was seen dedicated to fellow spinner “We had the best prepa- for 205 for a handy first innings years, we cannot say it’s a Toss: Afghanistan as another step towards reviving inter- and former captain ration for this game. The only lead. Afghanistan then made build-up process,”said Bang- Umpires: N Llong (ENG), Paul Wilson (AUS) national cricket in Pakistan after years Mohammad Nabi who retired thing (I said) from my side was 260 in their second innings to ladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan TV Umpire: Nitin Menon (IND) of isolation. from Tests but will continue to enjoy your bowling and enjoy set Bangladesh a steep target after the defeat. 10 SPORT TUESDAY 10 SEPTEMBER 2019

Qatari swimmers return home with rich medal haul at GCC Aquatics Championships

Qatari swimmers and team officials pose for a photograph with the officials of Qatar Swimming Association (QSA) upon their arrivalat the Hamad International Airport in , yesterday. The team won 27 medals at the 27th GCC Aquatics Championships which concluded in Kuwait City on Sunday. On the last day of the competition, Qatar won 10 medals including six gold, three silver and a bronze. RIGHT: QSA President Khaleel Al Jabir welcoming a young swimmer. Ramos equals Casillas record as Spain, Italy win qualifiers

AP open net after Thiago Alcantara BARCELONA pressured to recover the ball and knocked it to Mikel Oyarzabal, Sergio Ramos equaled the record who lured in the goalkeeper for the most appearances for before laying off to his attack Spain as his team continued its partner. Al Sadd’s Spanish coach, Xavi Hernandez (right) speaks with an march toward qualifying for the Rodrigo doubled the official during the co-ordination meeting hosted by Qatar Stars 2020 European Championship advantage five minutes after the by beating Faroe Islands 4-0 on restart with a deflected shot when League at the Al Bidda Tower, in Doha, yesterday. Sunday. the Valencia striker received the The 33-year-old Ramos ball and cut back across the area. matched goalkeeper Iker Casillas’ Alcacer got Spain’s third goal QSL holds co-ordination milestone with his 167th game for Spanish in the 90th - slicing in Thiago’s La Roja. The Real Madrid forward low pass - before he headed in a meeting with club coaches defender, who received a Rodrigo (TOP) final goal. standing ovation at Gijón’s El scores his Also in Group F, Sweden’s THE PENINSULA erees’ Committee. Molinón stadium when substi- second goal Emil Forsberg canceled out DOHA During the meeting, Abbassi tuted late in the game, will during the Stefan Johansen’s goal for stressed the importance of establish a new mark if he plays UEFA Euro Norway in a 1-1 draw, a fourth The Qatar Stars League (QSL) having such meetings, devel- against Norway on Oct. 12. 2020 qualifier consecutive stalemate between held a co-ordination meeting opment process between QSL “To equal the best goalkeeper group F the Scandinavian rivals. with QNB Stars League and and clubs, and increasing the in the history of football was a football match Romania forward George Second Division League coaches technical level of tournaments very important goal for me,” against Faroe Puscas headed in a goal just after at its headquarters at Al Bidda and players. Ramos said. Islands in Gijon halftime to beat Malta 1-0 and Tower, in line with its policy of “We met with the coaches Ramos has a record of 125 on Sunday. leave his team in third place in continuous consultation and to get their views on how to con- wins, 22 draws and 20 losses with the group with 10 points. co-ordination between the two tribute towards the development Spain since his debut in 2005. He Italy needed a questionable parties. of league championship, profes- has helped Spain win a World European teams, respectively. Rodrigo Moreno scored the hand ball decision to convert a The meeting was attended sionalism and football in Cup and two European The Faroe Islands are ranked first two goals before substitute penalty and eke out a win in by top officials including Ahmed general, based on their technical Championships. 53rd and Finland 43rd. Paco Alcácer added a late brace. Finland. Khellil Abbassi, Executive expertise. We’ve coaches with Italy joined Spain in also Spain leads Group F with 18 Alcácer is building up some Sauli Väisänen appeared to Director of Competitions and high technical levels. Benefiting winning its sixth match in as points, well ahead of Sweden in superb numbers with Spain, have his arm across his chest Football Development at QSL, from their wide experience many qualifiers for next sum- second place with 11. netting 11 goals in 16 appearances. when he stopped a shot from Ahmed Al Adsani, Director of through direct communication mer’s tournament, keeping both Italy took a big step to winning Rodrigo is also producing goals Andrea Belotti, but the referee Competitions Department at is very important as they’re an on pace to win their respective Group J by taking its total to 18 while he and Alcácer both fight immediately pointed to the QSL, Miguel Heitor, Acting essential part of the football groups. points. Finland is second with 12. for playing times with Álvaro penalty spot and Jorginho quickly Director of Football Devel- system,” Abbassi said. But while Spain eased past Coach Robert Moreno might have Morata. Rodrigo and Morata have converted the winner in the 79th. opment at QSL, Ali Hamoud Al The meeting also discussed the modest Faroe Islands, Italy wanted an even bigger win over netted four goals each in six Teemu Pukki had earned and Nuaimi, Head of Competitions a number of important points, struggled to win 2-1 at Finland. Spain’s lowly opponent, but he qualifiers. scored a penalty for Finland seven at Qatar Football Association such as development of football Spain and Italy are ranked 1st must have liked seeing both of his Rodrigo put Spain ahead in minutes earlier after Ciro Immobile (QFA), and Abdullah Al Balooshi, and key technical observations and 4th in UEFA’s ranking of strikers in fine form. the 13th when he tapped into an opened the scoring for Italy. representative of QFA’s Ref- made by the coaches.

Qatar SC in 2-2 draw with An action Barca to stage Messi circus during the friendly match R REUTERSEUTERS Delhi Dynamos in friendly between Qatar SC and India’s THE PENINSULA Millions flock to BarcelonaBarcelona to watch LionLionelel MMessiessi (pic(pictured)tu play at Delhi Dynamos, the CCampamp Nou, and visitors to the city will soon be ablea to see a DOHA played on circus show about the five-times world footballer of the year. Sunday. CirqueCirque du Soleil’s show Messi10 will ppremiereremiere at the Parc del Qatar SC and India’s Delhi Dynamos shared spoils with both teams Forum on OctoberOctober 10, billed as a “euphoric“euphoric 90-minute90-minu thrill ride scoring two goals each in a friendly match played on Sunday. that combines breathtakingbreathtaking pphysicalhysical performanceperformance with unthinkable Qatar SC’s goals were scored by Ali Awad (43rd minute) and poeticpoetic wondewonder”.r”. Uzbek striker (86th-min penalty). TheThe Barcelona and ArArgentinagentina fforward’sorward’s rise ffromrom RRosario, in his Qatar SC’s coaching staff, led by Spaniard Carlos Alos Ferrer, home coucountry,ntry, to the pinpinnaclenacle ooff world ffootballootball will be depicted were keen to make the best use of the friendly encounter as the ini the first team prepares to face Al Gharafa in the third round of this season’s CCirque du QNB Stars League at the Al Sadd Stadium on Saturday. SoleSoleil show to Qatar SC are eager to make a strong comeback to the League debutdebut in Spain. after losing in the first two rounds, to Al Duhail (1-2) and promoted side Al Wakrah (0-2). Formula 1: How top teams fared at Ferrari’s home race

REUTERS FERRARI after being released from his pitstop with a car was hit by Vettel when the German went crashing in the final phase of qualifying. MONZA (Charles Leclerc 1, Sebastian Vettel 13) loose front right wheel, a team mistake that off at the Ascari chicane and returned in a dan- The Finn was then handed a 10 second Leclerc’s second win in a row, in the cost McLaren € 5,000 ($5,511). Norris started gerous fashion. The Canadian also spun off, stop/go penalty for having the wrong tyres Team by team analysis of Sunday’s Italian space of eight days and from pole position. 16th and worked his way up. almost hitting Gasly’s car on his re-entry. He on his car. Giovinazzi scored points for Formula One Grand Prix, round 14 of 21 The 21-year-old was the first Ferrari winner was handed a drive-through penalty for that. only the second time this season with a races. in Italy since Fernando Alonso in 2010. The RENAULT career highest placing and in his home MERCEDES Monegasque also leapfrogged Vettel in the (Daniel Ricciardo 4, Nico Hulkenberg 5) TORO ROSSO race. (Valtteri Bottas 2, Lewis standings. Vettel had a nightmare -- spinning Renault’s celebrated their biggest single (Pierre Gasly 11, Daniil Kvyat retired) Hamilton 3) off and then handed a 10 second stop/go weekend points haul since 2008, both drivers Gasly was fortunate to avoid hitting HAAS Hamilton started second, took the chase penalty, plus three penalty points, for a dan- cashing in on Vettel’s misfortunes to move Lance Stroll after the incident with Vettel, but (Romain Grosjean 16, Kevin Magnussen to Charles Leclerc but lost out as his tyres gerous return to the track. The four-times up a place on their grid positions. lost two places as he took evasive action and retired) faded. He made a second stop for fresh tyres champion was also lapped by his ran off track. The Frenchman started 17th Magnussen retired with an hydraulics to set the fastest lap. The Briton’s lead over team-mate. RACING POINT due to engine penalties. Kvyat retired with issue. Grosjean started 13th but his race Bottas, who started third, is now 63 points. MCLAREN (Sergio Perez 7, Lance Stroll 12) an oil leak. unravelled at the start when he was hit from The podium was Hamilton’s eighth at the (Lando Norris 10, Carlos Sainz retired) Perez was hit from behind by Verstappen ALFA ROMEO behind and went down the turn one escape Italian GP, equalling Michael Schumacher’s Sainz retired at the end of the pitlane at the start and then had to soak up pressure (Antonio Giovinazzi 9, Kimi Raikkonen 15) road. The Frenchman then spun on lap 10, record. Mercedes are 154 points clear of Ferrari. while in seventh place at the halfway mark from the Dutchman in the closing stages. Stroll’s Raikkonen started in the pit lane after stopping to change damaged tyres. TUESDAY 10 SEPTEMBER 2019 SPORT 11

Medvedev US Open: Nadal wins five-set debuts in ATP top four thriller for 19th major title AFP PARIPARISS

AFP DaniilDaniil MMedvedev climbed to a career high NEW YORK of fourthfour in the ATP rankings yesterday afterafteafa a remarkable six-week hardcourt Rafael Nadal captured his 19th runrun in North America that culminated career Grand Slam title in thrilling withwiw an agonising five-set loss to fashion on Sunday by winning the RafaelRaRa Nadal in the US Open final. US Open final, outlasting Russia’s Medvedev, who won his first Daniil Medvedev 7-5, 6-3, 5-7, 4-6, MastersMaMa title last month in Cincinnati, 6-4 to seize his fourth crown in New becamebecc just the third man to reach York. finalsfininalss there, at Washington, Canada and The 33-year-old Spanish left- theth US Open in the same summer. hander moved one shy of Roger Fed- HoweverHoH like those before him -- Ivan erer’s all-time men’s record 20 LendlLenendndl in 1982 and Andre Agassi in 1995 Grand Slam triumphs and became --- hehe tottoo finished runner-up in New York, the second-oldest New York beatenbbeaeaten by Nadal Sunday in a pulsating champion in the Open era after Ken contestcconttestest 7-5, 6-3, 5-7, 4-6, 6-4 after four Rosewall in 1970 at age 35. hourshhours and 50 minutes at Arthur Ashe “Has been one of the most emo- Stadium.Statadiuum tional nights in my tennis career,” Nadal,Naa meanwhile, remains second Nadal said. butb t movesmo to within 640 points of world World number two Nadal took numbernnummbe one Novak Djokovic after con- the top prize of $3.85 million at queringqquerinng his 19th Grand Slam title, just one Arthur Ashe Stadium and added to shortsshort oof third-ranked Roger Federer’s his US Open trophy haul from 2010, recordrrecordd total of 20. 2013 and 2017. ItalianItaa Matteo Berrettini shot up 12 Nadal, who was in his fifth US placesplacacess after to 13th after reaching the Rafael Nadal of Spain (right) holdss thee US OOpenpepenpe winnwinner’snnerer’sr trotrophyphy nextex Open championship match and 27th semi-finalssemisemi-f-fi in New York. to Australian tennis legend Rod Laveraver (centre),(centrre),e andd DaniilDaniDaniili MedvedevMedvedveedevd Grand Slam final, is the first man to claim five major titles after turning of Russia after the men’s singles fifinalsnalss m atchmatchchh aat at thethehe USTUSTASTA Bil ilBillieliei Jean eanJeanann LATLLATESTE ATP RANKINGS 30. King National Tennis Center in Neww York,Yoork, on SuSunSundSSunday.ay. 1. NovakNova Djokovic (SRB) 9,865 pts But it took a supreme effort from 2. RafaelRafa Nadal (ESP) 9,225 the Spanish maestro, who nearly RECENT US OPEN MEN’S FINALSINALS 3. RogerRogge Federer (SUI) 7,130 became the first player to drop the 2019 - Rafael Nadal def. Daniil Medvedev,devv, 7-57-5,, 66-36-3,-3, 5-75-7,, 4-64-6,-6, 6-6-46-4.. 4. DaniilDani Medvedev (RUS) 5,235 (+1) final after leading by two sets since 2018 - Novak Djokovic def. Juan Martinn ddeleel PoPotro,trtro,ro,o, 6-3,3, 7-6-6 ((4),4), 66-3.-3.33. 5. DDominicom Thiem (AUT) 4,575 (-1) Ted Schroeder in 1949. 2017 - Rafael Nadal def. Kevin Anderson,on,, 6-3, 66-36-3,-33,3 6-46-4.-4. 6. AAlexanderleex Zverev (GER) 4,095 “This victory means a lot,” Nadal 2016 - Stan Wawrinka def. Novak Djokovic,koviviic, 6-77 (1)(1),( 6-4,6-4, 7-577-5, 66-3. 7. SStefanosteefa Tsitsipas (GRE) 3,420 (+1) said. “And the way it happened. It 2015 - Novak Djokovic def. Roger Federer,ereerer, 6-46-4,, 55-75-5-7,, 6-46-4,4, 6-46-6-4.4. 8. KKeieii NishikoriN (JPN) 3,375 (-1) was hard to control the nerves. The 2014 - Marin Cilic def. Kei Nishikori, 6-3,3, 66-3,-3, 66-3.-3-3.3.. 9. KKarenarre Khachanov (RUS) 2,810 nerves were so high after having the 2013 - Rafael Nadal def. Novak Djokovic,vic, 66-2, 3-63-6,-6,6 6-4,-4, 6-16-1.-1 10. RoRobertoob Bautista (ESP) 2,575 match almost under control.” 2012 - Andy Murray def. Novak Djokovic,, 7-7-66 ((10),10), 7-7-577-5, 2-62-6,-6, 3-63-6,-6,6 6-2.22.. 11. FabioFaab Fognini (ITA) 2,475 Nadal, who rose to 22-12 in five- 2011 - Novak Djokovic def. Rafael Nadal,al, 66-2, 6-46-6-4,-4,4,4 6-77 (3),3),), 6-1.66-1 112.2. GGaëlaë Monfils (FRA) 2,455 (+1) set matches, only lost once at a Slam 2010 - Rafael Nadal def. Novak Djokovic,vic, 6-4, 5-5-7,-7,- 6-46-4,-4,44,, 6-2.66-2-22. 113.3. MMatMatteo Berrettini (ITA) 2,245 (+12) when up two sets, to Italy’s Fabio 14.114 DavidDDav Goffin (BEL) 2,055 (+1) Fognini in the 2015 US Open third 1515.5.5 BBorBorna Coric (CRO) 2,025 (-3) round. On a knife’s edge at 5-5 in the 16.1166.. DDiegDiego Schwartzman (ARG) 1,995 (+5) “I more or less had the match third set, Medvedev reeled off eight 17.17.. NNikoNikoloz Basilashvili (GEO) 1,895 (+1) under control,” Nadal said. “The way of the last nine points to force a 18.188.. KKevKevin Anderson (RSA) 1,870 (-1) he was able to fight, to change the fourth, breaking Nadal in the 12th 19.19. StanSSta Wawrinka (SUI) 1,805 (+5) rhythm of the match, was game with a backhand winner. 20.200.0 JohJohn Isner (USA) 1,805 (-6) incredible.” Nadal was broken in the 10th At four hours and 50 minutes, game of the fourth set to force a fifth the match finished four minutes when Medvedev blasted a sterlingg short of equaling the longest final in backhand return winner. US Open history from Mats Wilan- Nadal rescued three Medvedev AndreescuAnA der’s 1988 win and Andy Murray’s break chances to hold in the second 2012 title. game of the fifth set, fired a clcclimbs up as It was the second Slam title of backhand volley winner to break the year for Nadal after taking his Medvedev in the fifth game and 12th French Open crown in June. seized a 5-2 edge when Medvedev BaBBarty grabs In addition to reaching the brink hit an overhead smash long. of Federer’s mark, Nadal moved one Serving for the match, Nadal was totop ranking shy of the Open era record five US broken when umpire Ali Nili issued Open titles won by Federer, Jimmy Nadal a time violation for his first AFPAFAFP Connors and Pete Sampras. serve and the Spaniard sent his PARISPARIRIISI “A 19th Grand Slam title is some- second long, the crowd booing Nili thing unbelievable, outrageous,” for his call. US OOpenpe winner Bianca Andreescu, 200th Medvedev said. Nadal squandered two break Rafael Nadal in thethe wworld rankings a year ago, leapt Nadal, who won his only prior and match points in the ninth game celebrates after into the top five yesterday, while Ashleigh meeting with Medvedev in last as the drama intensified. winning the BartyBarty knockedk Naomi Osaka off top spot. month’s Montreal final, stretched his Again serving for the match, 2019 US Open. EliminatedElim in the first qualifying win streak over Russians to 20 Nadal rescued a break point then hit rounddi in New York a year ago, Andreescu matches since losing to Nikolay Dav- a forehand drop volley for his third rose 10 places to number five after ydenko in the 2011 Doha match point chance and Medvedev beating Serena Williams in the final on semi-finals. sent a forehand return long to end Nadal motivated by love Saturday. Fifth seed Medvedev, 23, would matters. The 19-year-old Canadian is one have been the youngest men’s Grand Nadal screamed and fell to the place behind Osaka, whose defence of Slam champion since Juan Martin court on his back in joy and of game, not Slam record her US title ended in the quarterfinals. del Potro at the 2009 US Open. exhaustion. Barty was also knocked out in the last eight but, since she was knocked out in the Nadal shakes hands with Medvedev after REUTERS was honoured to be part of fourth round in 2018, increased her ranking winning his men’s singles final on Sunday. NEW YORK the battle to be crowned the points total. The Australian is just over 400 greatest of all time, and points ahead of the Czech Karolina Pliskova, Rafa Nadal moved within All the things that thrilled if it attracted more who climbed one place to second. one Grand Slam title of tying fans to the game, he would The top two have opened a sub- Roger Federer’s all-time I achieved in my still sleep well if he comes stantial gap over Elina Svitolina, who rose mark of 20 on Sunday but career are much up short. two spots to third after reaching the even after adding a fourth more than what I “You can’t be all day semi-finals in New York. US Open to his collection the looking next to you about if Spaniard said it was his love ever thought and one having more or one LATEST WTA RANKINGS of the game, not records, what I ever dream: having little bit less because 1. Ashleigh Barty (AUS) 6,501 pts (+1) that motivates him. Rafael Nadal you will be frustrated,” he 2. Karolina Pliskova (CZE) 6,125 (+1) Nadal fended off a late said. 3. Elina Svitolina (UKR) 5,032 (+2) comeback from Daniil “All the things that I 4. Naomi Osaka (JPN) 4,846 (-3) Medvedev to win a five-set among the ‘Big Three’ will achieved in my career are 5. Bianca Andreescu (CAN) 4,835 (+10) classic at Flushing Meadows, finish their career with the much more than what I ever 6. Simona Halep (ROU) 4,803 (-2) winning a 19th slam that most slams. thought and what I ever 7. Petra Kvitova (CZE) 4,326 (-1) also took him three clear of At 33, Nadal may have dream. 8. Kiki Bertens (NED) 4,325 (-1) Novak Djokovic’s 16 titles. the edge on Federer, the “I would love to be the 9. Serena Williams (USA) 3,935 (-1) “I am playing tennis 38-year-old Swiss crashing one who have more. But I 10. Belinda Bencic (SUI) 3,738 (+2) because I love to play out of the US Open in the really believe that I will not 11. Johanna Konta (GBR) 3,115 (+5) tennis,” Nadal told reporters. quarter-finals and failing to be happier or less happy if 12. Qiang Wang (CHN) 2,946 (+6) “I can’t just think about add to his Grand Slam titles that happens or not 13. Aryna Sabalenka (BLR) 2,785 Grand Slams. Tennis is more since winning the 2018 Aus- happen,” he said. 14. Sloane Stephens (USA) 2769 (-4) than Grand Slams. I need to tralian Open. “What gives you the 15. Angelique Kerber (GER) 2,750 (-1) think about the rest of the If nowhere else, Nadal happiness is the personal 16. Madison Keys (USA) 2,727 (-7) things. will be a hot favourite at the satisfaction that you gave 17. Caroline Wozniacki (DEN) 2,597 (+2) “I play to be happy. Of French Open, where he has your best. 18. Anastasija Sevastova (LAT) 2,517 (-7) course, the victory of today won a record 12 titles “In that way I am very, 19. Anett Kontaveit (EST) 2,500 (+2) makes me super happy.” including the last three. very calm, very pleased with 20. Sofia Kenin (USA) 2,460 It is anyone’s guess who He said that while he myself.” SPORT PAGE | 09 PAGE | 11 Ramos equals US Open: Nadal Casillas record as wins five-set Spain, Italy win thriller for qualifiers 19th major title

Tuesday 10 September 2019

Qatari players taking part in a training session on the eve of their AFC Asian Cup China 2023 Qualification Round 2 match against India at the Al Sadd Stadium, yesterday. PICTURES BY: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA

In-form Qatar eye home win over India

ARMSTRONG VAS 2022 FIFA WORLD CUP ASIA THE PENINSULA QUALIFIERS/ AFC ASIAN CUP CHINA 2023 QUALIFIERS Qatar will be looking to secure their second successive win in the QATAR INDIA Qatar vs India FIFA World Cup 2022 and Asian Guam vs Philippines Cup 2023 joint qualifying , Meshaal Barshim, , , Maldives vs China campaign today when they take Mohammd Albakri, Pedro, Salem Al Kamaljit Singh, , Rahul Bheke, Nishu Hajdri, Tariq Salman, Abdulkarim Hassan, Kumar, , , Sandesh Chinese Taipei vs Nepal on India at the Al Sadd Stadium. Khoukhi Bualem, Hassan Al Haydos, Jhingan, Narender Gahlot, , Adil The match will kick off at 7.30 Kuwait vs Australia Akram Afif, Abdulaziz Al Ansari, Hashim Khan, , Mandar Rao Dessai, Nikhil pm. Cambodia vs Bahrain Ali, Bassam Al Rawi, Asim Madibo, Poojary, Udanta Singh, , Raynier The 2022 World Cup hosts, vs Iran , , Ali Afif, Musab Fernandes, , Sahal Abdul Samad, Amarjit vs Palestine who have set twin targets heading Khizar, Ahmed Fateh,Yusuf Abdulrazzaq, Singh, , Brandon Fernandes, Yemen vs Saudi Arabia into the qualifiers, will be aiming Almehdi Ali, Abdulaziz Hatem and , , Afghanistan vs Bangladesh to maintain the same momentum Abdulla Absulsalam Balwant Singh, , Manvir Singh. Qatar’s head coach India’s head coach which fetched them a resounding Coach: Felix Sanchez Coach: Igor Stimac Mongolia vs Tajikistan 6-0 win against Afghanistan five Felix Sanchez Igor Stimac Myanmar vs Japan days ago. Indonesia vs Thailand Although Qatar coach Felix where they put up a spirited per- “India have done well in the players. We’ll see how everyone see how things go out during the Malaysia vs UAE Sanchez termed the match as a formance but went down 1-2 as last few matches and we respect is feeling. There is no reason to last training session on the eve of Sri Lanka vs North Korea ‘tough’ one, the Asian champions the away side scored two late them. We have seen how they fear and we shall look to score the match and we will decide.” Turkmenistan vs start as favourites against a side goals. played in the last match against goals and play good football,” Qatari Abdulaziz which is ranked 103 on the FIFA “It is an important game for and we read that they plan Indian coach Igor Stimac had said Hatem said his team-mates will ranking computer while the hosts us. It will be a tough game,” to make a number of changes after losing to Oman. be on guard against a wounded possible. You never give up,” he are in 62nd place. Sanchez, while speaking at a press from the last match,” Sanchez Qatar have set their targets in India after their last match loss to added. On the other hand, India suf- conference on the eve of the added in response to a question. the qualifying campaign with the Oman. On any special preparation for fered a loss at home to Oman, match, said yesterday. “We have to change 4-5 2022 hosts keen on clinching in “We do not wish to underes- the Qatar match Stimac said yes- the Finals of the 2023 Asian Cup timate our opponents. We want terday: “We didn’t have much time as quickly as possible. to qualify for the Asian Cup 2023 after the Oman game. Even as we “We have twin targets in and we want to give our best and know Qatar are a very good team, mind…qualify for the 2023 Asian we will be playing before the we are trying to give everything on Cup and prepare a good team for home crowd so that will motivate the pitch. So we have been working the 2022 World Cup,” Sanchez said. us to give our best on the players, and talking to them “We expect all the 11 players performance.” on how to prepare.” to give their best and play to their Meanwhile, India coach Indian goalkeeper Gurpreet best when they take to the field Stimac said ‘anything is possible Singh Sandhu said the they have and we also want our substitutes in football’. put the loss to Oman behind them. wherever they are called to take Speaking at the pre-match “Not getting a result against to the field to play their role to press conference the Croatian Oman was disappointing for us. perfection,” the Spaniard added. said: “I know the Qatar team But as a player you have to take it About making changes to the pretty well. Their physical strength in your stride, and move on to the composition of the team for is great, and their technical capa- next challenge. We think it’s a today’s match Sanchez said yes- bilities, and movements are fan- good opportunity to play against terday: “We have not decided yet tastic. It’s difficult to find any weak Qatar. We will try our best, and Indian players taking part in a training session at the Al Sadd Stadium yesterday. on the tactical changes, we have point in their squad,” Stimac said. try to get a result from the game,” a few things in mind, but we will “But in Football, everything is Gurpreet said yesterday. Qatar gears up for top football action at ANOC World Beach Games THE PENINSULA and Morocco Historically, the first official total of 36 minutes divided into of 35m (37m max) in length and BEACH FOOTBALL DRAW DOHA in Group A while Italy, Spain, beach soccer tournament was three equal periods of 12 minutes, minimum of 26m (28m max) in Mexico and Solomon Islands make created in Rio de Janeiro in 1950 unless otherwise mutually agreed width. MEN: Out of the 14 sports that will be up Group B. Iran, Paraguay, to unite neighborhood small between the referee and the two The penalty area is the area GROUP A: Brazil, Switzerland, featuring at the inaugural edition Senegal and Ukraine are in Group tourneys that has been played teams. on the pitch between the goal line United Arab Emirates and of the ANOC World Beach Games C and Russia, Japan, Uruguay and since 1940. Unlike conventional soccer, and an imaginary parallel line at Morocco Qatar 2019 from October 12 to 16, El Salvador will play in Group D. FIFA became the global gov- up to a maximum of seven sub- 9m from the goal line and marked GROUP B: Italy, Spain, Mexico soccer, football promises to be one In the women’s event, Spain, erning body of the sport in 2005 stitutes may be used in any match by two yellow flags placed next of the major attractions at the Brazil, Cape Verde and Mexico and the first FIFA Beach Football played in an official competition to each touch line outside the and Solomon Islands Katara Beach in Doha. contest Group A, while Britain, World Cup was held in the same organised under the auspices of pitch. GROUP C: Iran, Paraguay, A total of 24 male and female Russia, the US and Paraguay are year at the Copacabana Beach, its FIFA, the confederations or the The beach football event of Senegal and Ukraine teams, will be competing for fame in Group B. ‘spiritual home’, in Rio de Janeiro, member associations. the competition kicks off on GROUP D: Russia, Japan, and glory at the Games. According to the regulations Brazil with France defeating Por- The field of play is divided October 11 and will last for six Uruguay and El Salvador The men’s event will witness of the tournament, the top two tugal 1–0 in a penalty shootout, into two halves by an imaginary days with the finals played on the participation of 192 athletes teams from each group will go into following a 3–3 draw after extra- halfway line marked by two red October 16. WOMEN: from 16 nations while 80 players the quarterfinals in the men’s time, to emerge champions. flags located outside the pitch and More than 1,300 athletes from GROUP A: Spain, Brazil, Cape from eight nations will be involved event while the top two from each As per the game’s rule, a the imaginary central point of this around 90 countries are expected Verde and Mexico in the women’s event. group goes into semis for women. match is played by two teams, imaginary line is the exact at the ANOC World Beach Games At the draw ceremony held on They then compete for medals each consisting of not more than position for the kick-off and Qatar 2019 with action split GROUP B: Great Britain, August 27, four men’s groups were according to the system of the five players, one of whom is the certain free kicks. between the Katara, Aspire and Russia, the US and Paraguay drawn with Brazil, Switzerland, playoffs. goalkeeper and a match lasts a The pitch must be a minimum Al Gharafa beach venues in Doha.