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CYCLING/ TOUR OF Hagen times it well to help Dimension retain yellow ‘I feel stronger than last year and with luck I succeeded in winning today. Now I’ll try to keep hold of the yellow jersey. It didn’t feel like I was going fast. I felt good earlier in the week and it’s good to get the proof’

By Yash Mudgal

imension Data retained the yellow jersey of the as put up a dominating displayD on another windy day to win the stage three , at Lousil circuit yesterday. slipped down to second in the standings after his Di- mension Data teammate Edvald Boas- son Hagen produced a solid ride to win the 11.4km time trial. The Norwegian time trial champion completed the course 25 seconds faster than Jos Van Emden of LottoNL-Jumbo. Lieuwe Westra of Astana, former Dutch time trial champion, set an early benchmark before being eclipsed by compatriot Jos van Emden, who set a time 13:51 seconds. That time stood until Hagen, who began the day 18 seconds behind Cav- endish, set a time of 13:26, enough to lift him from fi fth to fi rst place. The seven-time Norwegian National Time Trial champion now sits 26 seconds ahead of teammate Cavendish. “I feel stronger than last year and with luck I succeeded in winning to- day. Now I’ll try to keep hold of the golden jersey,” Boasson Hagen said, after his fi rst time trial win since the 2010 Tour of Oman. “It didn’t feel like I was going fast on the course. I felt good earlier in the week and it’s good to get the proof that WINNERS, ALL: Stage III winner Edvald Boasson Hagen of Norway (yellow) is flanked by Dimension Data teammate Mark Cavendish and Young Rider of the Day Soren Kragh Andersen on the I was going well,” the 28-year-old Nor- podium after the end of the third stage, a 11.4km individual time trial, of the yesterday. The time trial was held at the Losail Circuit. PICTURE: Jayaram wegian added. The Manxman held a fi ve-second spires the young African lads.” the Katusha man ceded 44 seconds to cushion going into the time trial but Talking about the next stages, Cav- Terpstra last year. RESULTS AND STANDINGS (AFTER STAGE III) could only muster a time of 14:10.44, endish said: “As long as we win, it of Katusha, who STAGE: 1. Edvald Boasson Hagen (Nor) 3 (Ita) BMC Racing Team YOUNG RIDER CLASSIFICATION (TOP 5): seventh-quickest on the day. BMC doesn’t matter. We’re going to try to began the day second overall after his Dimension Data 0:13:26; 2. Jos Van Emden 0:00:32; 4 (Bel) BMC Racing 1. Søren Kragh Andersen (Den) Team Giant- Racing Team’s Manuel Quinziato win two more stages.” victory on Stage 2, now sits 45 seconds (Ned) Team LottoNl-Jumbo 0:00:25; 3. Manuel Team 0:00:34; 5 Alexander Kristoff (Nor) Team Alpecin 6:54:23; 2. Sven Erik Bystrøm (Nor) Team moved up to third place overall. The same race circuit featured in behind his compatriot after losing Quinziato (Ita) BMC Racing Team 0:00:29; 4. Katusha 0:00:45 Katusha0:00:14; 3. Nils Politt (Ger) Team Katusha Greg Van Avermaet (Bel) BMC Racing Team 0:01:49; 4. Moreno Hofland (Ned) Team LottoNl- Cavendish praised Hagen, who won last year’s time trial, which eventual nearly a minute in the time trial. 0:00:32; 5. Dmitriy Gruzdev (Kaz) Astana Pro POINTS CLASSIFICATION: 1 Mark Cavendish Jumbo 0:02:11; 5. Daniel Eaton (USA) United- two stages of in 2011. winner traversed in a “I thought I would do better today, Team0:00:40; 6. Lieuwe Westra (Ned) Astana (GBr) Dimension Data 36 pts; 2 Edvald Boasson Healthcare Professional Cycling Team 0:02:17 “One thing I’ve noticed since I rode time of 14:03, good enough for an at least, as I did it last year but maybe Pro Team 0:00:43; 7. Mark Cavendish (GBr) Hagen (Nor) Dimension Data 29; 3 Alexander with him at HTC is how he’s grown as a eight-second advantage over Fabian I just missed some power. I was not Dimension Data 0:00:44; 8. Jordan Kerby (Aus) Kristoff (Nor) Team Katusha 27; 4 Greg Van TEAM CLASSIFICATION: 1. BMC Racing Team leader. He’s one of the old guys on the team Cancellara and nine seconds over Bra- bad at all today, but I wanted more. It Drapac Professional Cycling; 9. Søren Kragh Avermaet (Bel) BMC Racing Team 19; 5 Sacha 20:42:42; 2. Team Katusha 0:01:00; 3. Bora-Argon Modolo (Ita) Lampre–Merida 17; 6 Manuel 18 0:01:36; 4. Dimension Data 0:01:59; 5. Astana now and for a quiet lad, he really motivates dley Wiggins. wasn’t my best day, but it happens. Andersen (Den) Team Giant-Alpecin 0:00:45; 10. (Ita) BMC Racing Team 0:00:47 Quinziato (Ita) BMC Racing Team 12; 7 Jos Van Pro Team 0:03:52; 6. Fortuneo - Vital Concept the other riders,” Cavendish said. The riders were again not allowed to Anyway, I am looking forward to the Emden (Ned) Team LottoNl-Jumbo 12; 8 Andrea 0:05:42; 7. Team LottoNl-Jumbo 0:05:50; 8 “He knows how to ride as a unit, he use time trial bikes. Kristoff showed at next stages, as still everything can CLASSIFICATION (TOP 5): 1 Edvald Boasson Guardini (Ita) Astana Pro Team 9; 9 Roy Jans Topsport Vlaanderen-Baloise 0:07:50; 9 United- knows how to be a leader and road cap- last year’s Three Days of De Panne that happen in this race,” said Kristoff . Hagen (Nor) Dimension Data 6:53:35; 2 Mark (Bel) Wanty - Groupe Gobert 9; 10 Healthcare Professional Cycling Team 0:07:56; 10 tain. It’s superb to see him grow into he can compete in the short time tri- Today’s fourth stage is a 189km ride from Cavendish (GBr) Dimension Data 0:00:26; (Irl) Bora-Argon 18 7 Wanty-Groupe Gobert0:08:00 a leadership role and he defi nitely in- als when the race lead is at stake, but Al Zubarah Fort to Madinat Al Shamal. SHARAPOVA PULLS OUT OF QATAR TOTAL OPEN By Sports Reporter This is the second time she has pulled out route, Kerber and Williams are likely to meet Doha of a tournament this season because of the in the final in Doha on February 27, just 28 same injury. Earlier this year, Sharapova also days after their title clash in Melbourne. had to withdraw from her intended season Lucie Safarova is the defending champion n what is a big blow to the Qatar Total opener, the Brisbane International. in Doha and she’s expected to play the event, Open, Maria Sharapova, one of the Sharapova is a two-time champion in Doha, though she has pulled out of the forthcoming Ievent’s star attractions, has pulled out of a Premier 5 event on the WTA calendar. WTA Dubai Open scheduled from February 14. the $2,517,250 WTA event scheduled from The Russian won the event for the first time The world No. 10 Czech landed in the Qa- February 21-27 at the Khalifa International Ten- in 2005, when it was a Tier-III event and then tari capital on Sunday and has been undergo- nis & Squash Complex. again in 2008 in the event's first year of being ing an intense training session at the Khalifa The Russian world No. 6, who has injured promoted as a Tier-I tournament. Tennis Complex since. her left forearm, is still to recover from the Sharapova's withdrawal from the Doha Safarova recently returned to physical train- injury completely. event comes after her being forced to sit out ing after a long story with a bacterial infection The Qatar Open was supposed to be the of Russia's Fed Cup quarter-final tie against that enforced her to skip many tournaments 28-year old's first WTA tournament after the the Netherlands last week despite being part including the Australian Open. Australian Open, in which she lost in the of the team. Russia crashed out of the event Last year, Safarova won the Australian quarter-finals to world No. 1 Serena Williams. after sustaining a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Open and French Open doubles titles partner- “Unfortunately, I will not be able to play the Dutch, who will now take on France in the ing Bethanie Mattek-Sands, besides the Qatar the Qatar Open because of my left forearm semi-finals. Open where she beat Belarusian star Victoria injury,” the 28-year-old said in statement re- Sharapova was part of a strong line-up in Azarenka in the final. leased by Qatar Tennis Federation yesterday. Doha that also features Serena, Simona Halep The Qatar Total Open is the first profession- “I would like to wish the tournament and all and Petra Kvitova. Surprise Australian Open al women’s tennis tournament to be staged in the great fans in Doha a great week of tennis winner Angelique Kerber is also part of the the Middle East and carries a prize money of and I hope to see them next year.” main draw. Unless there are major upsets en $2,517,250 (2,238,482 euros). Gulf Times 2 Thursday, February 11, 2016 CRICKET

SPOTLIGHT T20 ODI fallout has WI board threatens Australia fi red to throw up for Kiwi Test out players Marsh was given out after a vociferous crowd reaction to replays on the big screen at the ground brought the umpire’s attention to the caught and bowled dismissal

West Indies T20 captain Darren Sammy.

Reuters age, negotiated with the players Kingston association nine months ago. “They have had lots of time to digest and argue and do every- est Indies players thing,” he said. will be thrown off “Five of the players were in- the squad for the strumental and were there at the World Twenty20 onset, so at this point, I’m hop- Wif they do not agree to fi nancial ing that the players will sign and terms by Sunday’s deadline, the take advantage of the other ben- head of the region’s cricket board efi ts that are there.” said yesterday. He said that players would The hard-line stance comes receive half of any shirt spon- in the wake of reports that the sorship the board negotiates in 15-man squad, upset at a huge addition to a portion of prize pay cut, has rejected the con- money. tract off ered by West Indies Although West Indies cricket Cricket Board (WICB). has fallen on hard times in the Cricinfo.com on Tuesday Test format, it remains a major published a letter from Darren player in the shortest form of A file photo taken on February 8 shows Australia’s Mitchell Marsh (L) reacting after a controversial umpire’s decision which saw Marsh given out against New Zealand during Sammy to the WICB in which the game. their third one-day international cricket match at Seddon Park in Hamilton. the West Indies captain said the West Indies won the 2012 fi nancial terms for the World World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka AFP there will be plenty on it,” Hastings said der with their batting, but New Zealand “It will swing around a lot, and ob- Twenty20, which starts in India and are currently ranked second Wellington as the players took a look at the green go into the Test with their tails up after viously with two world-class swing on March 8, were unacceptable. in the world. Test wicket that off ers venom for the their overall success. bowlers in the attack it’s going to be a “We want to represent the This year’s squad includes quick bowlers. “I think we just take a bit of confi - challenge for us guys at the top of the West Indies but the fi nancials dashing batsmen Chris Gayle ustralia have warned of a “fi ery “They (New Zealand) want to be the dence,” coach Mike Hesson said. order.” on off er we can’t accept,” Sam- and Kieron Pollard. clash” in the fi rst Test against ‘big spirit of cricket’ in the ICC, but “Knowing that if we’re able to put Australia still have nightmares of the my wrote. Sammy, who requested an New Zealand starting in Wel- when it comes down to it, with a big se- Australia under pressure from a batting Ashes Test at Trent Bridge last year when WICB chief executive Michael urgent meeting before Sun- lington tomorrow as tensions ries on the line, you’re obviously going to point of view then that can create oppor- they failed to cope with the swing and Muirhead did not sound in a ne- day’s deadline, has proposed the continueA to simmer over the bizarre ODI take that one aren’t you?” tunities for us.” were all out for 60 in their fi rst innings. gotiating mood, however, when players participate in the World dismissal of Mitchell Marsh. Marsh was given out after a vocifer- The Basin Reserve off ers a typical New “Look at Trent Bridge, it was swinging he spoke on Jamaican radio. Twenty20 under the same con- Australian captain Steve Smith, who ous crowd reaction to replays on the big Zealand green wicket for the fi rst Test, but around, you don’t want those memo- “The WICB is committed to ditions as at previous tourna- was clearly annoyed at the way Marsh screen at the ground brought the um- David Warner expected that would mat- ries back again. We just have to adapt to play in the tournament, let me ments. was given out in the third one-day inter- pire’s attention to the caught and bowled ter less than the swing movement off ered whatever we face on game day,” Warner say that fi rst,” Muirhead said on He said players were facing national on Monday, has diplomatically dismissal. by the atmosphere to New Zealand strike said. The last time Australia played at Hitz 92fm. a pay cut of nearly 80 percent said there was no lasting animosity. The replays showed the ball had re- bowlers Tim Southee and Trent Boult. the Basin Reserve, in 2010, they won by “No one will leave the shores and stood to earn only $21,000 But Australian quick John Hastings bounded off Marsh’s boot and not the “The ball will swing for a lot longer 10 wickets. of the West Indies without sign- apiece this year, compared to gave a blunt warning yesterday that rela- ground to be caught by bowler Matt than what it does in Australia,” Warner New Zealand last played at the Basin a ing a contract and if these play- $135,000 at the last tourna- tions remained strained between the two Henry and the batsman was given out. said. year ago and beat Sri Lanka by 193 runs. ers in particular choose not to ment. sides and there would be fi reworks, and The loss of the wicket started an Aus- “Looking at the wicket here it looks In a drawn Test against India the previ- sign, then I guess we’ll be left The latest impasse between not just to celebrate New Zealand captain tralian collapse that gave New Zealand nice and green, but that’s irrelevant. I ous year, McCullum hit his career best with no option but to substitute WICB and the players comes Brendon McCullum’s 100th Test. the game by 55 runs and the series 2-1. don’t think the ball will do much off the 302, the only triple century scored by a other players for them.” some 18 months after the pre- It will be “a nice fi ery clash, I’m sure Both sides struggled in the middle or- wicket. New Zealander. Muirhead added that the mature end of West Indies’ tour board was not in a position to of India because of a longstand- improve the remuneration pack- ing payment dispute. BOTTOMLINE

Australia to proved significantly, the seam was diff icult to see at times,” trial black seam CA’s Head of Cricket Operations on pink ball for Sean Cary said. Cold comfort from home aft er “To address these concerns, day-night games we’ve worked with (manufac- Reuters, Melbourne turer) Kookaburra to introduce a fully black seam to make it easier to see.” Smith’s winning streak ends ustralia will trial a Drawing huge crowds and modified pink ball bumper TV audiences, the Reuters featuring a black first day-night test between Melbourne “The honeymoon is over for Steve ball on New Zealand pitches. ed speculation that he might be feeling seam in the domes- Australia and New Zealand Smith,” the Sydney Morning Herald Smith has hardly been alone in his the pinch after a long summer. A tic Sheffield Shield competi- at Adelaide Oval was hailed a newspaper declared on yesterday. struggles, with explosive all-rounder His instalment as captain of the Twen- tion next week after com- success by organisers, even if it “For the fi rst time in the Australian Glenn Maxwell sandwiching a six be- ty20 side in place of Aaron Finch a month plaints from players about finished within three days. teve Smith, now carrying the captain’s reign he is short of runs and tween two ducks against the Black Caps before the World T20 has only added to visibility issues during the Players on both sides com- burden of leading Australia in all presiding over a team that is not win- and George Bailey averaging 11.66. his pile and the selectors’ preference for inaugural day-night Test last plained of diff iculty making out three formats, is feeling the heat ning.” But as an increasingly reliable barom- one leader across all three formats was November. the seam under the floodlights from a disappointed home media Like his team, which is top-ranked eter of Australia’s fortunes on foreign met with scepticism. The ball will be used in matches and that the game’s delicate afterS his fi rst series loss as skipper. in one-day cricket and second in tests, pitches, Smith’s dip in form is untimely “He’s only new into the Test captain- in Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth, balance between bat and ball The world’s top-ranked test batsman Smith has become something of a victim ahead of the two-test series against New cy really and captained a bit of one-day and further feedback sought was skewed towards the bowl- and ICC Cricketer of the Year enjoyed a of his own success, his prolifi c output of Zealand. The last time the magic desert- cricket here and there,” former Australia from players, Cricket Aus- ers. golden summer on home soil, leading the runs over the past two years setting the ed Smith in the test arena was during the captain Ricky Ponting told Melbourne tralia (CA) said in a statement CA is determined to make day- hosts to emphatic test series wins over bar high for a demanding local media. Ashes series in England. radio station SEN. yesterday. night tests a feature of every New Zealand and West Indies, and vic- It was less than a month ago that Smith Having struck a glorious 215 to guide “With T20, more than anything, you “Feedback from the players fol- home summer, however, and tory in the one-day series over India. blasted a match-winning 149 to have the Australia to victory at Lord’s, Smith have to look a couple of overs ahead of lowing the first day-night Shield has sounded out South Africa But the accolades have dried up along hosts overhaul India in the one-day se- failed in both innings of the next two the game. round, as well as the historic and Pakistan about playing day- with the captain’s output of runs as Aus- ries opener in Perth. tests and the series was lost. “I think it’ll start catching up with him day-night test in Adelaide, is night matches when they tour tralia lost their one-day series away to But the 26-year-old has managed only As in England, Smith’s trade-mark pretty quickly. It did with me, anyway.” that while the ball had im- this year. New Zealand 2-1 with the 55-run thrash- 90 runs from his past fi ve innings and shuffl e across the crease has appeared The fi rst Test against New Zealand ing in Hamilton on Monday. looked out of sorts against the swinging less assured in New Zealand and prompt- starts in Wellington tomorrow. Gulf Times Thursday, February 11, 2016 3 CRICKET

SPOTLIGHT PSL Pakistan drop Watson, Khan give Shehzad for Asia Islamabad easy win Cup, World T20 over Lahore The 24-year-old managed just 33 runs in Pakistan’s 2-1 loss in New Zealand

By Our Correspondent sult was a mere formality as Khan Sharjah saw Islamabad through. Khan’s unbeaten 79 came from 43 balls with fi ve fours and seven sixes. hane Watson and Shar- Only Dwayne Bravo acquitted jeel Khan provided the himself well among the Lahore fi reworks as Islamabad bowlers, the West Indies all- United brushed aside La- rounder giving away just 28 runs horeS Qalandars by eight wickets in four overs. None of the other in the Pakistan Super league yes- bowlers completed their quota terday. as Qalandars captain Azhar Ali The Qalandars had posted a shuffl ed them around. decent total of 166 thanks to an Qalandars’ top order made de- unbeaten 50 by Mohamed Rizwan cent starts but failed to consoli- following the failure of the top date thanks to some good cap- order to deliver after promising taincy by Watson. much. Ali made 27, Naved Yasin con- But Islamabad made light work tributed 25, Bravo hit 26 and Qa- of the target thanks to Watson landars’ hero of their last match and Khan, who scored 79 apiece, Umar Akmal managed only 26 to hand Qalandars their third de- setting the stage for wicket- feat in four matches. keeper Rizwan to showcase his Watson slammed seven sixes talents. and four boundaries in his 79 His 50 off 27 balls with vefi which came off just 47 balls be- fours and three sixes gave La- fore he lost his wicket with the hore’s total a semblance of re- AXED: Ahmed Shehzad score on 153 in the 14th over. spectability but the Islamabad Next man Andre Russel de- batting simply proved too good AFP lected after considering the conditions for Pakistan but has never featured in a matches in Dubai and showed good form parted quickly for two but the re- for them. Lahore in Asia Cup hosts Bangladesh and In- Twenty20 game. with the bat as well. dia, where the World Twenty20 will be He scored 309 runs in Pakistan’s Also returning to the squad is lanky pace- staged. Twenty20 tournament with a strike rate man Mohamed Irfan, rested for the Twen- GAMBLE akistan have made four changes “While picking the squad, the team of 133 which earned him the place. ty20 series in New Zealand, making a four- to their squad for this month’s management and skipper were consulted Rasheed said it was not as if Shehzad pronged pace attack with all left-handers, Asia Cup followed by the World by the selectors, and all concerned gave hasn’t been given a chance to show his with the sole right arm bowler coming in the Twenty20 including the axing of their consent in this regard,” Rasheed worth. shape of medium pacer Anwar Ali. Injured Steyn Pstruggling opener Ahmed Shehzad after a said. “We gave Shahezad consistent chanc- The Asia Cup will be played from Feb- poor run of form. “The T20 team has been selected es. His confi dence level is down after a ruary 24-March 6 followed by the World The 24-year-old Shehzad managed keeping in mind the conditions and the run of poor form, which happens to play- Twenty20 from March 8-April 3. picked by S Africa just 33 runs in Pakistan’s 2-1 Twenty20 recent performances of some players in ers, so why not give a chance to someone series loss in New Zealand last month domestic and A team tours. The team is else who is in good nick?” said Rasheed. Squad: Shahid Afridi (capt), Mohamed and is one of four changes selectors made a fi ne blend of experience and youth and Left-arm paceman Rumman Raees Hafeez, Shoaib Malik, Umar Akmal, AFP from the last tour. the selectors believe that team will do and left-arm spinning allrounder Mo- Sarfraz Ahmed, Babar Azam, Iftikhar Johannesburg Also out are Sohaib Maqsood, pace- well in both tournaments.” hamed Nawaz were also rewarded for Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Anwar Ali, Moham- man Umar Gul and wicket-keeper bats- Shehzad’s place goes to 29-year-old their showings at domestic level. ed Irfan, Wahab Riaz, Mohamed Amir, man Mohamed Rizwan as chief selector Khurram Manzoor who had played 16 The 21-year old Nawaz has taken eight Mohamed Nawaz, Khurram Manzoor, outh Africa yesterday Haroon Rasheed said the squad was se- Tests and seven one-day internationals wickets in four Pakistan Super League Rumman Raees. named fast bowler Dale Steyn in their 15-man squad for the World Twenty20S tournament in India BOTTOMLINE next month. Steyn’s inclusion is subject to fi tness as he has not played since suff ering a shoulder injury in the fi rst Test against England in De- cember. England call up Dawson, Broad What was at fi rst thought to be a minor injury was later diag- nosed as a bone stress reaction likely to keep him out of action until shortly before the tourna- and Woakes miss the bus ment. The South African squad in- AFP “I went to one or two of their cricket over the last six months. cludes 10 of the players who (England Lions) practices and “We just want to move for- helped them reach the semi-fi - against England in Mumbai on saw him in the nets. ward with that young team.” nals of the 2014 World Twenty20 March 18. Also in their group are “From a bowling point of Chris Woakes has been a in Bangladesh. Sri Lanka, the West Indies and a ncapped Hampshire view, he gets a bit on the ball, regular in recent sides for all A notable exclusion is fast qualifi er. all-rounder Liam and he looks as though he’s got formats of the game, but the bowler Morne Morkel, although In their two most recent T20 Dawson has been something about him personal- bowling all-rounder misses out Morkel has only played in one series in Asia, South Africa beat called up by England ity-wise. as England look to a three-man Twenty20 international since Bangladesh and India on their Ufor the World Twenty20 tour- “He can bat as well, and he’s a spin attack of Dawson, Moeen then. own home turf. In between, they nament that starts in India next good fi elder apparently.” Ali and Adil Rashid to lead the There was no place, either, for shared a home series against month. Australian Bayliss said that he way on the sub-continent. Morkel’s elder brother, Albie, New Zealand. Seamers Stuart Broad and was considering keeping Finn Former Twenty20 captain 34, who had been the subject of South African captain Faf du Chris Woakes both miss out on on the current tour of South Broad was recently recalled to speculation that he might earn Plessis said: “The World T20 is selection for the 15-man squad, Africa, but decided to give him the one-day international squad a recall after showing good do- the competition that we have but Steven Finn is included de- time to rest ahead of the tour- for the ongoing series in South mestic form. been working towards over the spite his recent struggles with namant in India. Africa, but he is yet to play a Players new to the world event last 18 months. injury. Stuart Broad Pietersen, who is currently match in that series and will not are fast bowlers Kyle Abbott and “We have had disappoint- As expected England over- in Dubai playing for the Quet- return to the international ver- Kagiso Rabada, batsman Rilee ments in the past and this year looked Kevin Pietersen, despite ta Gladiators in the inaugural sion of the shortest form of the Rossouw and all-rounders Chris is another great opportunity for his excellent recent form in Pakistan Super League, was game next month. Morris and David Wiese. us to lift that elusive ICC trophy. South Africa’s Ram Slam com- named player of the series when Sri Lankan batting legend South Africa will use the same We have been playing together as petition and Australia’s Big England won their only major Mahela Jayawardene and former squad in two Twenty20 interna- a squad for some time now and Bash League. global trophy in the 2010 World England Twenty20 captain Paul tionals against England on Feb- are really hungry and motivated.” The Super 10 stage of the ghanistan, Scotland and Hong admitted that he does not know Twenty20. Collingwood will take up coach- ruary 19 and 21 as well as three South Africa’s 15-man squad: tournament starts on March Kong. too much about the latest mem- But Bayliss was quick to reit- ing roles. matches against Australia be- Faf du Plessis (captain), Kyle 15, with England playing their Left-arm spinner Dawson, ber of his squad. erate that a return for Pietersen England squad: Eoin Morgan tween March 4 and 9. Abbott, Hashim Amla, Farhaan Group One opener the follow- 25, has scored seven fi rst-class “I haven’t actually seen him is just not going to happen. (capt), Alex Hales, Jason Roy, In the most recent bulletin on Behardien, Quinton de Kock ing day against the West In- centuries, but it was his good play a game. He came to a prac- “He wasn’t even discussed in Joe Root, James Vince, Jos But- Steyn, Cricket South Africa tar- (wkt), AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, dies. form with the ball on the Eng- tice when we were out in the the selection meeting,” he said. tler, Sam Billings, Ben Stokes, geted the Australia series as the Imran Tahir, David Miller, Chris Also in their group are Sri land Lions tour of the UAE that UAE, and he was there with the “Everyone is very happy with Moeen Ali, Liam Dawson, David most likely return for him. Morris, Aaron Phangiso, Kagiso Lanka, South Africa and one has seen him picked. Lions,” Bayliss said. the young team we’ve got ... we’ve Willey, Chris Jordan, Adil Rashid, South Africa will open their Rabada, Rilee Rossouw, Dale qualifi er from Zimbabwe, Af- England coach Trevor Bayliss But the Australian added: played very well in Twenty20 Reece Topley, Steven Finn. World Twenty20 campaign Steyn, David Wiese. Gulf Times 4 Thursday, February 11, 2016 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT UPSET Strugglers Sochaux dump Monaco out Sun will shine of the French Cup for the Liverpool youngsters: Klopp ‘Tomorrow when we get up... the sun will shine. And if we want, at Liverpool, altogether, then we can take a lot of positive things out of this game’ Sochaux midfielder Florian Martin (L) celebrates as Monaco AFP midfielder Joao Moutinho looks on at the end of the French Cup London match at the Auguste Bonal Stadium in Montbeliard. rench second-division Results urgen Klopp predicted bright- strugglers Sochaux er days ahead for his Liverpool stunned Monaco 2-1 in Sochaux 2 (Martin 19, Sacko youngsters after they fell to an the last 16 of the French 54) Monaco 1 (Bakayoko 38) Angelo Ogbonna buzzer beater CupF on Tuesday, while Gazelec Saint-Malo 1 (Creac’h 33) againstJ West Ham United in their FA Cup Ajaccio avoided an upset at ama- Gazelec Ajaccio 2 (Mayi 61, fourth-round replay on Tuesday. teurs Saint-Malo. Boutaib 78) A team featuring two players aged 20, Sochaux are facing the pros- Granville 1 (Untereiner 98) a 21-year-old, two 22-year-olds and pect of relegation to France’s Bourg-en-Bresse 0 - aet 18-year-old midfi elder Pedro Chirivella third tier for the fi rst time in stood toe-to-toe with West Ham at Up- club history, but the Ligue 2 ton Park until Italian centre-back Og- side grabbed a 19th-minute lead Saint-Malo, but the Ligue 1 side bonna headed home in injury time of ex- through Florian Martin at the had to come from behind after tra time to give the hosts a 2-1 win. Stade Auguste Bonal. Steven Creac’h put the hosts in It leaves the Europa League as Liv- Tiemoue Bakayoko steered in front at Guingamp’s Stade du erpool’s only realistic hope of silver- a header shortly before half-time Roudourou. ware this season—they are currently to bring Monaco back level, but However, second-half goals 12 points below the Champions League Hadi Sacko, on loan from Sport- from Kevin Mayi and Khalid places in the Premier League—but ing Lisbon, drilled a 54th-minute Boutaib sent the Corsican outfi t Klopp says it is all part of the learning strike beyond Paul Nardi to send into the last eight, with fi fth-tier curve for his players. Sochaux into the quarter-fi nals. Granville joining them following “We are Liverpool FC and this moment Gazelec Ajaccio claimed a a 1-0 extra-time victory over sec- is not the most sunny side,” said the Liv- 2-1 victory away to fourth-tier ond-division Bourg-en-Bresse. erpool manager, who missed his team’s 2-2 draw against Sunderland on Saturday as he was having his appendix removed. FIFA ELECTIONS “But tomorrow when we get up... the sun will shine. And if we want, at Liver- pool, altogether, then we can take a lot of positive things out of this game. Infantino visits Iran “We have to make steps. We don’t like our results too much, to be honest, but it’s the diffi cult way we have to go. In the in battle for votes end it can be the right way.” As well as giving more game time to DPA him as their candidate. the younger members of his squad, the Tehran Ex-FIFA vice president Prince Ali trip to east London also allowed Klopp bin al-Hussein of Jordan, former to welcome several key players back from FIFA off icial Jerome Champagne injury. EFA general secretary of France, and South African Philippe Coutinho scored a cunning Gianni Infantino ar- businessman Tokyo Sexwale are free-kick on his return after a month out Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp (R) shakes hands with defender Brad Smith after the English FA Cup fourth round replay. rived in Iran yesterday the other candidates. after deciding to leave with a hamstring injury, steering a shot will visit second-tier Blackburn Rovers in Uno stone unturned in his bid for ‘DOOR ALWAYS OPEN’ beneath West Ham’s jumping wall in the round fi ve. votes in this month’s FIFA presi- Sheikh Salman yesterday repeat- 48th minute to cancel out Michail Anto- “It was a late-night kick-off , it was dential election. ed his call to work with Infantino nio’s volleyed opener. against Liverpool. It’s our last season at “I am one of the candidates, and on some sort of unspecified deal Strikers Daniel Sturridge and Divock Upton Park, it’s over 120 minutes, and we it is therefore logical I travel to which would benefit FIFA and Origi also made comebacks as second- scored a great header in the last second of Iran as well,” Swiss Infantino told football as a whole. half substitutes, with the former in par- the game, and we had injuries—and we Iranian media. “My door is always open to ticular looking sharp in his fi rst appear- overcame all of that. Football experts in Tehran say all,” he told Russia’s Tass news ance since December 6. “So that’s why this game will go down Infantino is expected to receive agency. in history as one of the greatest nights Iran’s vote in the February 26 “We have to be realistic. We know ‘GO DOWN IN HISTORY’ and games for our club.” election because the Iranians are the chances of each candidate. I Sturridge has made just four starts this Dimitri Payet set up Ogbonna’s 121st- not fans of fellow candidate Sheikh hope Europe looks at the matter season due to a litany of niggling injuries minute winner with a typically devilish Salman Bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa. from an organizational point of and Klopp said he would carefully man- cross from a free-kick, hours after West He is from Bahrain and there view and not from an individual age the pace of the England striker’s re- Ham confi rmed they have opened talks have been political tensions one. If there can be an agree- integration. with him over a new contract. between the two nations while ment, it is a win-win situation.” “We have to talk fi rst with Daniel be- The 28-year-old France international, diff erences have emerged The election was called by outgo- fore I make a decision about this (on how a close-season signing from Marseille, between Iranian soccer off icials ing FIFA president Sepp Blatter, much he plays),” Klopp said. is reportedly the subject of interest from and Sheikh Salman while he has who announced he was stepping With West Ham due to leave Upton an unnamed Chinese club and Bilic said been head of the Asian Football down after world football’s gov- Park for London’s Olympic Stadium at West Ham were desperate to keep him. Confederation. erning body was enveloped by a the end of the season, manager Slaven “We should do everything we can to Leading European clubs said on series of corruption scandals. Bilic said that victory had been especially keep our best players,” he said. “Dimitri Tuesday they are supporting In- He has since been banned from memorable. Payet is our best player. fantino while Liberian federation football for eight years alongside “It is a great night for West Ham,” said “I think he’s very happy here and soon president Musa Bility suggested UEFA chief Michel Platini, who West Ham United defender Angelo Ogbonna celebrates after scoring the winner. the former Croatia manager, whose side we’re going to sort out the situation.” not all African nations will back pulled out of the running to Sheikh Salman, despite African replace Blatter, allowing Infantino confederation CAF endorsing to stand. BOTTOMLINE COGS ‘No truth’ in Chelsea rumours ‘Game changers’ Ozil, Sanchez vital to for Juventus coach Allegri title push: Rosicky AFP “Once and for all, let’s end Allegri added: “The thing Turin this discussion.” that’s fundamental for me ame changers Mesut changers. Both of them have the Allegri took over from current right now is to get to the Ozil and Alexis Sanchez strength to win games, so it’s Italy coach Conte in time for the end of the season with will have to play pivotal vital for the team’s title chances uventus coach Massi- start of last season and led Juve Juventus and try to win roles if Arsenal are to that they perform well.” miliano Allegri has again to a fourth consecutive Serie A Gend their 12-year wait for a Pre- Team mate Joel Campbell some trophies, even though distanced himself from title, their fi rst league and Cup that won’t be easy” mier League title, midfi elder To- hailed the stellar performance the Chelsea manager’s job double in 20 years and their fi rst mas Rosicky said. of defender Hector Bellerin, tip- amidJ claims he will replace in- Champions League fi nal appear- “He’s performing miracles (at Sanchez, who joined from ping the 20-year-old to eventu- terim boss Guus Hiddink at the ance since 2003. Juventus) considering that during Spanish side Barcelona in 2014, ally become one of the best right end of the season. Juve were outclassed 3-1 by the summer he didn’t get any of is one of the most feared wing- backs in the world. Allegri, who steered the Turin Barcelona but their run to the fi - the players he’d asked for. I think ers in the league, having scored “He is enjoying a very high giants to the Champions League nal provided a huge boost for the he will go to Chelsea because the 16 goals in his debut season with level, but I think he can give even fi nal last year, has a contract un- club and for cash-strapped Ital- off er is really fantastic.” the North London side. more. He has the potential to til June 2017 but is reported to be ian football as a whole. A win for Napoli would see Ozil scored four goals but has be one of the best in the world,” the Blues’ number one choice to Speculation that Allegri would Maurizio Sarri’s league leaders fi rmly established himself as one Campbell said. replace former Chelsea manager soon quit Turin for London in- open up a fi ve-point lead over the of the world’s top creative tal- “He is showing that now, but Jose Mourinho. creased when Giovanni Galeone, Old Lady at the top of Serie A. ents, having set up a league-high he is still very young and he has Reports in England yesterday who coached Allegri during his But while currently in denial 16 assists already this campaign. a long way ahead. So I think the claimed Chelsea owner Roman playing career and is described mode, Allegri appeared not to rule “He (Ozil) was out for some best of Hector is yet to come, we Abramovich had ruled Diego as his mentor, said Chelsea had out a future move to England. time (with injury) last season so haven’t seen it yet.” Simeone out of contention for File picture of Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri (C). made Allegri a “fantastic off er”. Allegri added: “The thing he couldn’t fi nd his rhythm, but Arsene Wenger’s men, who the job because he does not like “If I was Allegri, I would walk to that’s fundamental for me right now, after playing since the start are third in the table after 25 the Atletico Madrid coach’s been linked to the club, the spot- the-table clash against Napoli Chelsea and I think he will end now is to get to the end of the of the season, everyone here can games, host the table-topping playing style. light is fi rmly on Allegri due to his on Saturday, he said: “There’s no up there at the end of the sea- season with Juventus and try to see (how big a talent he is),” Ros- Leicester City on Sunday seek- Although former Juventus success with the club last season. truth in it. I can’t deny or confi rm son,” Galeone said in an inter- win some trophies, even though icky told the club website. ing to reduce the gap between coach Antonio Conte has also But ahead of Juve’s top-of- something that doesn’t exist. view with Radio Radio. that won’t be easy.” “Him and Alexis are the game the sides to two points. Gulf Times Thursday, February 11, 2016 5 FOOTBALL

GERMAN CUP Dortmund fans call foul on Stuttgart’s cup ticket prices Borussia Dortmund fans but at the same time show called ‘foul’ on away ticket that it was not on,” said Marc prices for their team’s German Quambusch, the initiative’s Cup quarter-final at Stuttgart spokesman. by hurling dozens of yellow The fans carried out the pro- Dortmund reach and red balls onto the pitch. test with Dortmund’s blessing. Dortmund fans took exception “It’s the case that VfB Stuttgart after Stuttgart raised ticket raised the prices for tickets by prices at the Mercedes Benz 25 percent, with prices around Arena for Tuesday night’s game. 70 euros,” said Dortmund’s After boycotting the first 20 press off icer Sascha Fligge. rows of the away section, “The fans are very critical of Dortmund fans then threw the this and we support them.” semis aft er easy brightly-coloured balls onto Stuttgart said they had put the pitch midway through prices up for away fans after the first-half which Borussia Dortmund had done exactly players, led by captain Mats the same thing for a Bundesliga Hummels, had to pick up as match between the clubs at the game was briefly halted. Borussia’s Signal Iduna Stadium. “Football must be aff ordable!” Ticket prices are an issue in read one banner in the away England’s Premier League af- win over Stuttgart section as the cheapest ticket ter 10,000 fans walked out of for Tuesday’s match was 38.50 Liverpool’s 2-2 draw at home euros, plus booking fee, while to Sunderland last Saturday ‘Auba knows how to take his chances and he works hard on his finishing every day’ the most expensive were over the £77 ($112, 99 euros) it more than 70 euros. will cost for the most expen- “We wanted to try and put sive match ticket at Anfield a good face on the matter, next season. Bale, Ibrahimovic to meet in Euro 2016 warm-up Wales will complete their “Sweden are a side full of preparations for the 2016 quality and experience who European Championship with over the years have been a friendly against Sweden regular qualifiers for major in Stockholm on June 5, the tournaments,” Wales manager Football Association of Wales Chris Coleman said in a press (FAW) announced yesterday. release on the FAW website. Wales, who have qualified for “They will be the ideal op- their first major tournament ponents in a magnificent since the 1958 World Cup, stadium.” will travel directly to France Wales had previously an- after the game to prepare for nounced friendlies against their opening Group B match Northern Ireland and Ukraine against Slovakia in Bordeaux in March. They will also tackle on June 11. neighbours England and Rus- The game will pit Wales for- sia at Euro 2016. ward Gareth Bale against Swe- Sweden open their Euro cam- den’s talismanic striker Zlatan paign against the Republic of Ibrahimovic in a meeting of Ireland in Saint-Denis on June two of the biggest names in 13 and will also face Italy and world football. Belgium in Group E. Heart problem forces coach Stevens to resign at Hoff enheim Huub Stevens resigned as Armin Reutershahn are in coach of Bundesliga strugglers charge ahead of Hoff enheim’s Hoff enheim yesterday due next league game at fellow to an acute abnormal heart strugglers Werder Bremen on rhythm as he awaits surgery. Saturday. The 62-year-old Dutchman, The Sinsheim-based club is who only had a contract until still seven points from safety the end of the season and has with 14 games left and are been in charge for 10 games in serious danger of being since last October, was exam- relegated after eight seasons ined in Heidelberg on Monday in Germany’s top flight. Dortmund’s Pierre-Emerick and announced his decision The club has already appoint- Aubameyang (2ndL) in action in a press conference with im- ed youth team trainer Julian during the German Cup mediate eff ect. Nagelsmann as head coach of quarter-final against Stuttgart “The risk is too great that the senior side for next season something will happen and I and, if the club stays up, he don’t want that,” said Stevens will become the youngest AFP third season in a row while spirited Stutt- Results reacted as a unit after conceding a goal,” with his side second from bot- coach in Bundesliga history at Stuttgart gart had their fi ve-match winning streak, beamed Pizarro. tom in Germany’s top flight. just 28 years of age. dating back to mid-December, ended. Bayer Leverkusen 1 (Hernandez “Now we get to go further in the Cup.” “I think my career is over. The Hoff enheim’s director of sport Dortmund took the lead at Stuttgart’s 22-pen) Werder Bremen 3 (Garcia 31, Leverkusen took the lead when ex- drive isn’t there anymore - it’s Alexander Rosen has hinted ierre-Emerick Aubameyang Mercedes Benz Arena when Reus fi red Pizarro 42-pen, Grillitsch 82) Manchester United forward Hernandez a pity.” that Nagelsmann may take claimed his 30th goal of the home off the crossbar with just vefi min- VfB Stuttgart 1 (Rupp 21) Borussia continued his record of scoring in each Stevens, who has coached over from Schreuder and Reu- season on Tuesday to help fi re utes gone. Dortmund 3 (Reus 5, Aubameyang 31, round of the cup. It was his 22nd goal for Schalke 04, Hertha Berlin, Co- tershahn in the near future. Borussia Dortmund into the Stuttgart fought back and levelled Mkhitaryan 89) Bayer this season in all competitions. logne, Hamburg, PSV Eindhov- Hoff enheim’s 2-0 defeat at PGerman Cup semi-fi nals with a 3-1 vic- when Lukas Rupp’s shot defl ected off After Stefan Kiessling was up-ended en and PAOK during his career, home to Darmstadt last Sun- tory at VfB Stuttgart. Mkhitaryan and into the Dortmund net by Bremen’s Spanish defender Alejandro says he had been having heart day was Stevens’ final game in Gabon striker Aubameyang and Germa- on 21 minutes to the home fans’ delight. There was a strong Latin American Galvez in the area, ‘Chicharito’ rifl ed home problems for weeks. charge. ny winger Marco Reus, who have provided The visitors regained the lead when fl avour at Leverkusen’s BayArena as the resulting penalty in the 22nd minute. “The club needs someone He only took over from 45 of Dortmund’s goals in all competitions Reus set up Aubameyang for his 30th in Bremen booked their place in April’s The lead lasted nine minutes as who is 100 percent fit and I Markus Gisdol in October with this season, netted before Henrik Mkhi- all competitions, on 31 minutes as Stutt- semi-fi nals. Bremen’s Argentinian centre-back San- am not,” said Stevens, who the club, backed by billion- taryan claimed their late third. gart failed to cope with Dortmund’s pace. Mexico’s Javier Hernandez put tiago Garcia put Werder level by hit- will undergo heart surgery in aire software mogul Dietmar Aubameyang has now scored in each of With time running out, Aubameyang Leverkusen ahead, then Bremen’s Ar- ting the bottom left-hand corner of either Heidelberg or back in Hopp, in their current league Dortmund’s last seven German Cup games, broke clear and pulled Stuttgart goalkeep- gentinian centre-back Santiago Garcia Leverkusen’s net to make it 1-1. the Netherlands. position of 17th. dating back to the start of last season, hav- er Mitchell Langerak off his line to allow levelled before Brazilian defender Wen- Disaster struck for the hosts when “The doctors haven’t advised But Stevens says he believes ing also netted in Dortmund’s 3-1 Cup fi nal Mkhitaryan a simple tap-in on 89 minutes. dell was sent off for Bayer just before the Wendell was shown a straight red for me to quit, but I can feel it in Hoff enheim will stay in Ger- defeat to Wolfsburg last May. half-time break. hauling down Bartels, who was through myself. I haven’t got so many many’s top flight. “Auba knows how to take his chances PIZARRO HELPS BREMEN SEAL WIN After Wendall’s dismissal, Peru’s on goal, just before the break years ahead of me any more “Hopefully, I don’t need to and he works hard on his fi nishing every Earlier, veteran Claudio Pizarro helped 37-year-old striker Pizarro scored The 37-year-old Pizarro, who last and I want to enjoy them.” worry,” he said. day,” said Reus. seal Werder Bremen’s 3-1 quarter-fi nal Bremen’s second by converting the re- weekend became the fi rst foreign player For now, Steven’s assistant “I will keep following Hoff en- “It’s fun to play alongside him.” win at ten-man Bayer Leverkusen by sulting penalty, then set up their third. to make 400 Bundesliga appearances, hit coaches Alfed Schreuder and heim and the Bundesliga.” Dortmund are in the semi-fi nals for the playing a key role in their shock victory. “We did very well defensively and we his eighth goal of the season.

AL KASS INTERNATIONAL CUP 2016 Red Bull, Inter Milan book semi-fi nal berths

By Sports Reporter of the match and till then it was the Doha South American side that had the bet- ter chances. Estudiantes were creating goalscoring opportunities, but their ed Bull Salzburg claimed a shooting was generally wayward, al- convincing victory, by four lowing Inter to sit back and wait for the goals to one, over Aspire Acad- right moment to strike. emy in a closely fought match, In the 79th minute substitute left ensuringR their continued progress and back Roberto di Jenno broke down the a berth in the semi-fi nal stage of the Al wing and centred. Fucile blocked the Kass International Cup 2016. cross, and referee Mashari Al Sham- It was Aspire who took the early lead mari immediately pointed to the spot. when Abdulrasheed Ibraham scored in In fact, replays suggested that the ball the sixth minute. had come off Fucile’s knee rather than However, the balance of the tie de- his hand. Gaetano Maranzio stepped fi nitively shifted on 21 minutes when, up to calmly dispatch the penalty kick, in one of Red Bull’s rare forays forward, giving Inter a 1-0 lead they had barely midfi elder Abdelahim Montie found deserved. himself in space on the left of the As- The Argentines’ agony was complete pire area, and his pinpoint cross was with four minutes remaining, as they expertly dispatched by Kenan Kirim to and it was Red Bull who got their fourth INTER DOWN ESTUDIANTES committed players forward in search of make it 1-1. in the 61st minute through Can. Inter Milan came out on top of a closely an equaliser and Inter were able to dou- Buoyed by the equaliser, Red Bull be- Aspire can look back with pride on a contested contest in the fi rst game of ble their lead through a counter attack. gan to gain the upper hand, and were battling performance that at one stage the last eight at Al Kass, defeating Es- Inter advanced into the semi-fi nals soon ahead through Nikolas Meister in appeared to be propelling them towards tudiantes 2-0 to advance to the semi- and, while their performance was less the 27th minute. the semi-fi nals. Instead, it is Red Bull fi nals. The Argentines can count them- than electrifying, the impression is Red Bull then consolidated their lead who are through to the last four, and selves unlucky to have lost in rather growing that they are genuine champi- in the 36th minute through a Alexander the discipline and character that they controversial circumstances, having onship challengers. Burgstaller header. have displayed thus far suggests that, harshly conceded a penalty with the After three matches, their record The second half saw Aspire battle Inter Milan players celebrate after scoring against Estudiantes yesterday. (Right) on their day, the Austrians can beat all- game fi nely balanced. reads: played three, won three, scored hard to reduce the defi cit but couldn’t Red Bull players are jubilant after scoring against Aspire Academy. comers. The goals came in the last 20 minutes twelve, conceded…none. Gulf Times 6 Thursday, February 11, 2016 NBA

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Curry magic as Warriors down Wizards spoil Houston Rockets Rambis’ Knicks coaching debut New York promoted Rambis from associate coach to replace fired Derek Fisher on an interim head coach basis Monday following a 23-31 record

DPA Los Angeles John Wall of the Washington Wizards shoots against Sasha Vujacic 18 of the he New York Knicks changed New York Knicks during their NBA coaches but it didn’t change game at Madison Square Garden on on their nose-diving direction. Tuesday. John Wall had 28 points with T17 assists, Bradley Beal scored 26 with fi ve triples, and the visiting Washington Wizards spoiled Kurt Rambis’ Knicks head coaching debut, 111-108 on Tues- Stephen Curry reacts after scoring a basket against Houston. day. “It’s a win,” Wizards coach Randy AFP “Our bench really carried us Wittman said. “Trust me, I’m happy.” Oakland tonight,” Warriors coach Steve Marcin Gortat had 14 points with 10 Kerr said. “The surge from the rebounds, and Jared Dudley also net- bench to start the fourth quarter ted 14 for Washington (23-27), which teph Curry turned on gave us the separation we need- knocked down 16-of-26 from behind the the style as the Golden ed.” arc in the victory. State Warriors overcame The Warriors now have the New York promoted Rambis from as- a brave Houston Rockets Chicago Bulls’ remarkable 72- sociate coach to replace fi red Derek Fish- fiS ghtback to triumph 123-110 and win season in their sights, a er on an interim head coach basis Mon- stretch their winning streak to 10 record benchmark long seen as day following a 23-31 record. games on Tuesday. unbeatable. But despite a courageous comeback Reigning NBA Most Valuable Elsewhere, Carmelo Anthony eff ort, the results were the same and the Player Curry scored 35 points in scored 31 points but it was not downward-spiraling Knicks (23-32) fell a pulsating battle in Oakland to enough to prevent the New York for the sixth straight time and 10 in the take the Warriors’ record to 47-4 Knicks from sliding to defeat last 11 games. for the season. against the Washington Wizards “I was pleased with our determina- The highlight of Curry’s lat- in their fi rst match since the dis- tion to get back into the ball game, guys est masterclass was his role in a missal of coach Derek Fisher. picked up their eff ort,” said Rambis, who remarkable passage of play in the Anthony drained a three- has had previous head coaching stints third quarter, when he stripped pointer with 67 seconds left to with the LA Lakers and Minnesota. the ball inside the Warriors reduce Washington’s lead to “We’re still trying to play with each paint and then darted forward to 106-101 but the Wizards held on other and we’ll get better at that. Our de- launch an attack. for a 111-108 victory at Madison fence must continue to get better.” An incredible behind-the- Square Garden. Another slow start put the Knicks be- back pass found Andre Iguodala, Washington guards Bradley hind by 16 in the opening quarter but they who fl ipped to Leandro Barbosa Beal and John Wall made a series dug themselves out and caught the Wiz- to score. of clutch shots down the stretch ards at 83-apiece after three quarters, led The Rockets had fought back to seal the Wizards win. by 14 points from Kristaps Porzingis. after a disastrous fi rst quarter Beal amassed 26 points while Down by 10 with 1:51 left to play, the which saw the Warriors jump out Wall weighed in with 28 points, Knicks appeared to cut the lead to three to a 38-22 lead after only 11 min- 15 of them coming in an impor- when Arron Affl alo hit a driving layup utes. tant fourth-quarter cameo. while drawing a blocking foul on Beal. Houston rallied however with In-form rookie forward However, offi cials reviewing the play James Harden (37 points) and led Kristaps Porzingis fi nished with nullifi ed the basket, ruling that Beal was 74-69 early in the second half. 20 points for the Knicks, who outside the restricted area. Curry’s 35-point night came abruptly axed Fisher on Mon- Behind 107-103, Langston Galloway despite 12-for-24 shooting for day to replace him with assistant drained a straightaway three pulling the the Warriors, who improved to Kurt Rambis. Knicks to within one with 8.5 seconds 24-0 at home this season with Anthony said shortly before left. their 42nd consecutive victory at tipoff that the Knicks locker The Knicks were forced to foul and Oracle Arena. room had been taken by surprise Wall made four free throws around two Curry made seven three- by team president Phil Jackson’s by Carmelo Anthony at the other end, pointers along with nine assists. decision to dump Fisher. making it 111-108 with 4.3 seconds re- Warriors’ Australian center An- “This was something that I maining. drew Bogut added 13 points while don’t really know if it was a quick The Wizards had a defensive break- blocking six shots. decision or was lingering,” said down and allowed Galloway to get free The contest tipped decisively Anthony. on the right wing but his potential game- back in the Warriors’ favor when “I’m not going to try to fi g- tying triple bounced off the rim at the unheralded forward Harrison ure that part out but everybody buzzer and he crumpled to the fl oor in Barnes rose from the bench to found out as far as players around disappointment. score 10 points during a 17-5 run the same time yesterday morn- Anthony led the Knicks with 33 points early in the fourth quarter. ing.” and 13 rebounds while Porzingis fi nished with 20 points. “We started off slow again, it’s tough to BLOW come back but we were right there,” Por- zingis said. “We have to move forward, keep going and learn from the coach we have.” Memphis’ Gasol •San Antonio Spurs 119, Miami Heat 101: LaMarcus Aldridge scored 28 points, Kawhi Leonard had 23 and the out indefi nitely visiting Spurs (44-8) notched their fi fth straight win after beating the Heat. Dwyane Wade scored 20 points while jumper from the left corner over Zaza Rodney Hood had 29 points, in- in Dallas dating back to Jan. 9, 2010. with broken foot Chris Bosh had 18 for Miami (29-24). Pachulia at the overtime buzzer, and cluding the tying 3-pointer with 1.5 Chandler Parsons scored 24 points, •Utah Jazz 121, Dallas Maver- the surging Jazz won their season- seconds left in regulation, while Hay- Deron Williams added 23 for Dallas (29- icks 119 (OT): Gordon Hayward high seventh in a row after edging the wood finished with 20 as the Jazz 26), which has dropped four of its last Reuters nailed the game-winning step-back host Mavericks. (26-25) snapped an 10-game drought fi ve games. Memphis

BOTTOMLINE bad week for the Mem- phis Grizzlies got worse on Tuesday with the news that All-Star centerA Marc Gasol will be out “indefi nitely” with a broken right foot. Bucks snap losing streak with It will be a blow to the Spanish national team as well six months before the Olympic Games. The Grizzlies released a state- ment that Gasol’s “MRI revealed win over Boston Celtics a fracture in his right foot”. The team did not say exactly how and Reuters Avery Bradley, whose 18 paced the Celtics, was whis- largely ineff ective as the Bucks fell behind by 10 before when the injury occurred. Milwaukee tled on Milwaukee’s inbounds attempt, sending Mid- cutting the defi cit to 30-26 heading into the second. Gasol has averaged 16.6 points dleton to the line for the game-winner. Rashad Vaughn’s 3-pointer put Milwaukee up, 49- and seven rebounds in 52 games Monroe and point guard Michael Carter-Williams, 46, with 4:45 left in the half and Monroe took over in the for Memphis this season. More immediately, the Griz- hris Middleton’s free throw with 0.6 seconds who had 16 points with six rebounds and fi ve assists, quarter hitting 5 of 8 shots to score 11 in the second. The Spanish team is expected zlies will have to carry out with- left saved the Milwaukee Bucks from overtime came off the bench for Milwaukee as coach Jason Kidd Down one at the break, the Bucks took control of the to be one of the strongest chal- out one of their lynchpins. and snapped a fi ve-game losing streak with a looked to shake things up for the Bucks, who had lost game in the third, scoring a season-high 40 points and lengers to vie for the gold medal They have lost their past two 112-111 victory over the Boston Celtics at the seven of their last eight overall. riding a 24-7 run to take a 93-74 game into the fi nal with the United States at the Rio games in overtime and are fi fth BradleyK Center. O J Mayo started at point in place of Carter-Williams quarter. Olympics. in the powerful Western Confer- Middleton fi nished with 20 points for the Bucks, who while Mason Plumlee got the nod at center but the lineup Fourteen of Milwaukee’s third quarter scoring came “God willing, next year I will ence with a 30-22 record. got 29 points and 12 rebounds from center Greg Monroe. switch didn’t last long. Mayo missed a pair of 3-pointers off eight Boston turnovers. Carelessness was a big be well, without injuries, and Gasol, 31, is part of a famous Monroe’s hook shot with a second to play seemed to and collected two fouls before going to the bench with problem all night for the Celtics, who turned the ball I’ll be able to help the national basketball family. His brother give the Bucks the lead for good, but Jerryd Bayless was 9:02 left in the opening quarter. over 18 times but not at all in the final quarter, tying team,” Gasol said last July after Pau plays for the Chicago Bulls whistled for a foul on the other end, and Kelly Olnyk Monroe wasn’t far behind, taking over for Plumlee at the game at 109-109 on Crowder’s 3-pointer with 23 missing the EuroBasket 2015, and is also an important part of sank two free throws to tie the game at 111. the 7:33 mark, but he went 2 for 6 from the fi eld and was seconds left. which Spain won without him. the Spanish team. Gulf Times Thursday, February 11, 2016 7 SPORT

THE CELEBRATION Denver streets run orange to welcome Super Broncos The Broncos captured their third NFL championship on Sunday with a stunning 24-10 victory over the favoured Panthers behind a stifling defense, led by linebacker Miller, who stymied Carolina’s vaunted high-powered off ense

Reuters Denver

undreds of thousands of cheer- ing, orange-clad Denver Bron- cos fans lined the city’s streets on Tuesday for a parade and Hrally to welcome home the team after their upset victory in Super Bowl 50 over the Carolina Panthers. A roar from the sun-splashed crowd went up around noon when the fi rst fi re truck, carrying Super Bowl Most Valu- able Player Von Miller and quarterback Peyton Manning, kicked off the parade through downtown Denver. The Broncos captured their third NFL championship on Sunday with a stun- ning 24-10 victory over the favoured Panthers behind a stifl ing defense, led by linebacker Miller, who stymied Caro- lina’s vaunted high-powered off ense Molly Nichols, an 11-year-old fi fth- grader from the Denver suburb of Park- er, secured a front-row spot along the parade route with her parents and aunt after getting an excused absence from school. “My favourite player is Von Miller, so it was really great to see him,” she said. Also at the head of the parade was An- nabel Bowlen, wife of team owner Pat Bowlen, who was absent from the fes- tivities as he battles Alzheimer’s disease. A city spokeswoman said offi cials could not provide an estimate of the crowd size, but planned for a throng of “hundreds of thousands.” She noted that the number could swell to nearly 1 mil- lion, well over the city’s population of almost 664,000, as fans poured in from the suburbs. Denver has had a love aff air with the Broncos since their inception in 1960, Denver Broncos players celebrate during the Super Bowl 50 championship parade at Civic Center Park in Denver on Tuesday. Top, right: Denver even though the team failed to post a Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning waves to the crowd. Bottom right: Linebacker Von Miller (58) holds the Vince Lombardi Trophy. winning season in its fi rst 13 years of ex- istence. The sentimental crowd favourite was SPOTLIGHT Manning, who at age 39 became the old- est quarterback to win a Super Bowl and who many observers believe will retire on top of the football world. Addressing the crowd at the end of the parade, Manning credited his teammates for allowing him to garner his second Elway says no pressure on Manning championship, the only quarterback to win that honour with two diff erent fran- AFP time before making a decision. Elway said Tues- line-up after being benched during the season Valuable Player gave a series of one-word answers chises. Denver day the Broncos would allow Manning as long as he in favour of deputy Brock Osweiler. The Bron- before abruptly leaving after three minutes. New- “We’ve got a great culture in our lock- needed. cos are understood to favour using Osweiler as ton unapologetically explained away his conduct er room,” he said. “There is no deadline. We’ll let Peyton enjoy a starter next season, but will need to lock him as he cleared out his locker at the Panthers training The loudest cheers were saved for enver Broncos general manager John El- this,” Elway said. “Eventually we’ll sit down and into a deal soon before he becomes a free agent facility in Charlotte on Tuesday. Miller, who forced two fumbles by Pan- way said Tuesday Peyton Manning will talk to him. There is no timeline for this.” on March 9. “I’ve been on record to say I’m a sore loser. Who thers quarterback Cam Newton that led not be pressured into a quick decision Elway emphasised that Manning’s future was zCarolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton likes to lose? You show me a good loser and I’m go- to two Denver touchdowns. over his future, hinting that the quarter- entirely up to him. on Tuesday defended his sulky post-Super Bowl ing to show you a loser,” he said. “It’s not a popular- Miller gestured to his teammates, who backD may still have a role with the franchise if he “Important thing is, it’s going to be his deci- press conference display, justifying his behavior on ity contest. I’m here to win football games.” fl anked him on stage hoisting the Super plays on. sion,” Elway said. “Where we get a chance to sit the grounds he was a “sore loser”. Asked if it bothered him that people had taken Bowl trophy. Manning is widely expected to announce his re- down and talk to him, that’s up to Peyton, where Newton has attracted widespread criticism for off ence, he replied: “That’s cool.But I know who “All these guys helped to get me here,” tirement after clinching the second Super Bowl of he is in that process, what he thinks he can do, his conduct before reporters after the Panthers’ I am and I’m not about to conform nor bend for he said, adding that the team is posed to his 18-year career on Sunday at the age of 39. how he thinks he can play ... what he wants to do upset loss to the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl 50 anybody’s expectations because your or anybody make a run for a second title next season. Manning said in the aftermath of Sunday’s win from here on out.” on Sunday. else’s expectations will never exceed mine,” New- “Back-to-back, right?” over the Carolina Panthers he planned to take his Manning regained his place in the starting The 26-year-old National Football League Most ton said.

NHL Sharks prove two good for Chicago Blackhawks

By Curtis Pashelka in Chicago Jones had 22 saves through two peri- call with 2:37 left in the opening frame. Contra Costa Times (TNS) ods and 11 more in the third for his fi fth Brandon Mashinter directed the puck shutout of the season, Marleau’s goal into the Sharks net after getting a pass came on the power play in the second from Dennis Rasmussen, but after a Sharks team that has become period and the Sharks killed all three Sharks challenge initiated by video accustomed to winning games penalties they took to fi nish the road coach Dan Darrow, it was ruled that away from home might have trip 11-for-11 on the penalty kill. Rasmussen interfered with Jones before picked up their most impres- Marleau’s goal came with 10:51 left the puck crossed the goal line. siveA road victory of the season on Tues- in the second, as he took a pass from “Great call by (Darrow),” DeBoer day. Logan Couture at the point and fi red said, “key call at that time in the game, Martin Jones made 33 saves and a quick slap shot that glanced off and really chanced the game for us.” Patrick Marleau scored for just the Jonathan Toews and beat Blackhawks It was the third time this season the second time in 17 games as the Sharks goalie Corey Crawford for a 1-0 Sharks Sharks found a way to fi nish off an ex- fi nished off their four-game trip with lead. tended trip on a positive note. a systematic 2-0 win over the Western It was Marleau’s fi rst goal on a They closed out a perfect six-game Conference-leading Chicago Black- manned net since Dec. 28 against Colo- trip in November with a win in Colum- hawks. rado. His other goal in that span was an bus, Ohio. A month later, they beat Los The Sharks went 2-2 on the trip and empty-netter Jan. 21 against Arizona. Angeles in Staples Center to fi nish a are a Western Conference best 18-8-2 “This is a big win to make it a pretty fi ve-game trip at 3-1-1. on the road this season. But their vic- good road trip,” Marleau said. “If you “I think we just like having a happy tory against Chicago was just their sec- can get that lead and put the other team plane on the way home,” Marleau said. ond in nine trips to the United Center back on their heels, they’ll take more “Don’t know what it is, but to continue over the past four-plus years. chances and we’ll be able to capitalise to do it would be nice.” “Guys have done a good job of fo- on them.” cusing, playing games as they come,” Joe Thornton added an empty netter Results Sharks captain Joe Pavelski said. “We with 1:42 left in the third period to help Anaheim 4 PHILADELPHIA 1 didn’t cheat, we didn’t turn over any seal the win. NY Islanders 3 COLUMBUS 2 pucks. You could feel it.” The Sharks played with just fi ve de- Los Angeles 9 BOSTON 2 With another bounce in Anaheim or Jiri Sekac (R) of the Chicago Blackhawks turns to pass fensemen for the fi nal 55 minutes as Florida 7 BUFFALO 4 an early goal in Nashville, the Sharks under pressure from Marc-Edouard Vlasic of the San Jose Brenden Dillon suff ered an upper-body MONTREAL 4 Tampa Bay 2 probably could have picked up more Sharks at the United Center in Chicago on Tuesday. injury, possibly when he collided with Winnipeg 2 ST. LOUIS 1 than four points in four games. Blackhawks winger Jiri Sekac 5:10 into Washington 5 NASHVILLE 3 As it is, the Sharks sit in second place but I like how we played in all four or two based on how we played. away from home hasn’t changed a the fi rst period. DeBoer said Dillon will Dallas 4 MINNESOTA 3 in the Pacifi c Division with 60 points, games on the road,” Sharks coach “If we keep our game in the place it’s whole lot from the start of the season. be evaluated Wednesday. NEW JERSEY 2 Edmonton 1 seven back of fi rst-place Los Angeles Pete DeBoer said. “We probably in right now, I know the points will fol- Win the battle on special teams, take The Sharks were outshot by the San Jose 2 CHICAGO 0 and one point up on Anaheim. could be walking out at the end of low.” care of the puck and get excellent goal- Blackhawks 10-8 in the fi rst period but Vancouver 3 COLORADO 1 “We would have liked more points, the trip with at least another point The Sharks’ formula for winning tending. were the benefi ciaries of a reversed goal CALGARY 4 Toronto 3 Gulf Times 8 Thursday, February 11, 2016 SPORT

TENNIS SPOTLIGHT Bautista Agut carries Qatargas Chess from winning momentum, today

By Sports Reporter organising this tournament, Doha which will provide an excel- lent opportunity for young chess enthusiasts in Qatar to he third edition of compete against each other the Qatargas Chess and hone their skills.” Cilic enters 3rd round Championship will Al-Mannai said: “Our sup- start today at Al port to the game of chess is TMuntaza Model Primary part of a strategy we have ‘It was not an easy match, I had a poor second set, but in the third I really lifted my level’ School for Boys at 5pm, the or- adopted in promoting sport- ganisers said yesterday. ing activities that are gaining The four-day event is be- popularity in Qatar. The aim ing organsied by Qatar Chess of this strategy is to help in Association (QCA) with spon- nurturing young talents in the Croatia’s Marin Cilic returns the ball to Luxembourg’s Gilles sor help from Qatargas. The country by creating opportu- Muller during their second round match of the ABN AMRO event is for youngsters falling nities for them to develop fur- World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam. (AFP) between the ages of 6 to 16, or- ther, thereby contributing to ganisers said. The tournament achieving the Human will be conducted as per the Development goals of Qatar Swiss-system for rapid chess National Vision 2030.” involving nine rounds with Al-Medaihki ‘thanked’ the each round lasting 25 minutes sponsors for their ‘support’. and allowing ten seconds for “We thank Qatargas for every move, a QCA offi cial said. its continued support to this “Those interested to take championship which will help part in the event can go to our to further promote the game website www.qatarchess.com of Chess in Qatar particularly and download the registra- among the youngsters,” Al- tion form. They can fi ll up the Medaihki said. form and come for registra- “The past two editions of tion at 3pm,” Mohammed al- the tournament were a great Medaihki, success and we hope to attract General Secretary of QCA even more participants this said. “We are expecting kids year. Chess, as we all know, from neighboring countries has great benefi ts in terms of to feature at our event,” Al enhancing the mental skills of Medaikhi said. “We have com- children and boosts their aca- pleted all preparations to make demic achievement. the tournament a grand suc- “Qatargas’ support to this cess,” he added. event underlines the Compa- “We had the Qatar Masters ny’s commitment to the local in late December. We had a community and its keenness very exciting time during that in supporting the overall de- event. We expect a lot of par- velopment of our young gen- ticipants at this event as well,” eration.” Al Medaikhi said. Al Medaikhi Tournament schedule: said tournament will attract Thursday: At 5 pm the first around 250 young players. round + second round Commenting on Qatargas’ Friday: At 3 pm, the third support for the championship, round + fourth + fifth round Azam Abdulaziz al-Mannai, Saturday: At 3 pm, the sixth Qatargas Public Relations round + seven o’clock + eighth Manager said: “We are pleased round to continue our support to the Sunday: At 4:30 pm, the ninth Qatar Chess Association in round.

ST. PETERSBURG TENNIS DPA 13-2 in the season of his life. In the second round, second match - two tiebreakers and no which will keep him off the ATP Rotterdam “I’m off to my best start of a seed Marin Cilic played well in breaks,” the 13th-ranked Cilic for at least a month. season and I hope to keep it up,” the important moments to ad- said. Frenchman Gasquet said that said the player who stood 0-2 vance past Luxembourg veteran “In the second I was returning he felt his pain the day before win- n-form Spanish sixth against Sousa going in. “I’ve Gilles Muller 7-6 (7-2), 7-6 (9-7) better and got into his service ning the Montpellier tournament seed Roberto Bautista played well in my last matches in their fi rst meeting. game. But I had to stay mentally for the third time at the weekend. Agut continued his and I want to continue like this Cilic, the 2014 runner-up to concentrated. I was also lucky in The 29-year-old ranked 13th winning ways as he and get as many wins as possible Tomas Berdych, has become the the tiebreakers. came to Rotterdam in hopes he reachedO the second round of the this week.” main title tip after the injury “If you can have a couple of could heal but said that he is also ABN-AMRO World Tennis yes- His Portuguese opponent sal- pullout of top seed Richard Gas- tough matches and get through now feeling ill and had no choice terday with a battling 7-6 (7-4), vaged two match points before quet. them, you start to play better,” but to quit the indoor event. 1-6, 6-3 defeat of Portugal’s Joao going down to defeat. Cilic came through in two Cilic said. “I’ve adjusted to the Marin Cilic, the second seed, Sousa. “It was not an easy match, hours and is now set to face tight situations. I’m always glad takes the role of favourite at the The opening victory in I had a poor second set, but in German Philipp Kohlschreiber, to win matches like this.” tournament where he fi nished slightly over two hours came the third I really lifted my level a 6-4, 6-2 winner over Ivan Yesterday Richard Gasquet runner-up in 2014. three days after the 17th-ranked again. There were a lot of rallies Dodig. handed the another box offi ce Gasquet said that he hopes to player won his second title of and long points,” Bautista Agut Cilic is bidding for his 15th ca- body blow as the top seed quit be able to play in the Marseille Left to right: Sania Mirza of India, Iva Majoli of Croatia, Maria 2016 in Sofi a, following up on said, Frenchman Jeremy Chardy reer title and said that passing a a day before his opening match event later this month. Goloviznina and Polina Rodionova of Russia and Martina Hingis his Auckland trophy in early advanced over Russian Evgeny pair of tough tests in his opening with a groin strain. “Of course I’m disappointed, of Switzerland pose for pictures on the steps of the Russian January. He will next play Czech Donskoy 6-7 (9-11), 6-4, 7-6 rounds has been benefi cial. The pullout came a week after I wanted to play here,” Gasquet Museum in St. Petersburg as part of activities during the St. Jiri Vesely. (10-8) in another fi rst-round “I played better today than the Roger Federer was unable to play said. “It’s impossible for me to Petersburg Ladies Trophy 2016 Tennis tournament. (AFP) Bautista Agut improved to game. fi rst day. This was a very close after undergoing knee surgery play.”

FOCUS ‘Djokovic dominant but it’s still tight at the top’

Reuters world. He’s playing great tennis,” in a report by the BBC and Buz- Mumbai the 41-year-old Henman told Reu- zFeed in January that 16 players ters in an interview. “But obviously who have been ranked in the top Djokovic is playing a little bit bet- 50 had been repeatedly fl agged to ovak Djokovic’s domi- ter at the moment. the Tennis Integrity Unit (TIU) nation of 2016 is not as “Roger was in the fi nal of US over concerns they had thrown inevitable as it might Open last year and he was in the matches. appear, former British fi nal of the Wimbledon last year. Henman, who was in the city Nnumber one Tim Henman be- Djokovic stopped him in his quest as the brand ambassador of HSBC lieves, even if the other members to win more grand slams. Road to Wimbledon programme, of the “Big Four” will have to raise “They are still very, very close.” a joint initiative by the All Eng- their game and hope the Serbian Henman thinks Federer, who land Lawn Tennis Club and India’s falters. won the last of his 17 major titles in tennis body, said his fi rst reaction Djokovic won 11 titles including 2012, and Murray look most likely to the allegations was one of “sur- three of the four majors last year to prevent a Djokovic grand slam prise” and called for more proof and has a 12-0 record this sea- sweep this year as Stan Wawrinka and not just speculation. son, having thrashed Rafa Nadal, did at the French Open last year. “If there has been any match- Roger Federer and Andy Mur- Nadal, who was knocked out of fi xing then we need to make sure ray to win the title in Doha and a Australian Open in the fi rst round, that it’s erased from our sport record-equalling sixth Australian may not be the same player that because it’s a crime in sports. We Open crown. So impressive was won nine French Open titles but have no place for it in any sport let the 28-year-old at Melbourne can still pose a serious threat on alone tennis,” he said. Park that many pundits believe a the clay courts at Roland Garros. “It’s also important to educate fi rst calendar year grand slam in “The challenge for all those the young players so they appreci- the men’s game since Rod Laver in other players is to try and raise ate this is something very, very se- 1969 is on the cards. their levels and probably hope rious if it has happened and make Henman, while conceding there that Djokovic doesn’t play quite sure it never happens again.” is now a gap between Djokovic and as consistently,” the former world “We have a tennis integrity unit the other top players, does not number four and a four-time and if they need to invest more think it has become a gulf. Wimbledon semi-fi nalist said. money in that then we must do “They can defi nitely challenge. “There’s no doubt right now that. We must fi nd out the facts Murray is at highest ranking in that Djokovic is the player to beat.” and we then can move on from his career, he’s number two in the Tennis is reeling from revelations that.” Gulf Times Thursday, February 11, 2016 9 SPORT

RUGBY QATAR BASKETBALL LEAGUE Contrasting wins for Gharafa, Al Sadd Wallabies fl anker By Sports Reporter White scored 23 and 15 points Doha respectively. In the second match of the day, Al Sadd edged Al Rayyan bdulkader Salem 67-64 in a see saw game with scored a game-high 29 Suliman Abdi top-scoring for points as Al Gharafa the winners with 24 points. thrashed Qatar Sports Al Sadd had taken a 20-15 lead Gill to head for ClubA 101-59 in the Qatar Basket- after the fi rst quarter, but Rayyan ball League last evening. caught up and led by a point after At the Al Gharafa Hall, the the second and third period. hosts ran roughshod over The close contest continued their hapless rivals to win by in the deciding session and with a 42-point margin, one of the just two and a half minutes re- highest in the history of the maining, the teams were level at tournament. 63-all thanks to a free throw by France next year Al Gharafa were 21-3 up in Dominic Davon. the first 10 minutes and en- However, Saeed Erfan Ali joyed a whopping 38 point lead produced a magic moment with ‘He has international aspirations but plays in a position in which Australia have depth’ (51-13) when the second quar- a fi ne three-pointer to give Al ter ended. Sadd a crucial 66-63 advantage The mauling continued una- that turned the match in their bated after that with Qatar favour. LIAM GILL Sports Club virtually giving up Al Sadd then scored a point off the fi ght. a free throw and then restricted Aiding Salem in the onslaught Rayyan to just one more point to was Mohamed Saad with 24 pull off a thrilling win. points, including four three- Saeed Erfan ali scored 14 for pointers, while Hasino Ndoye the winners while Anthony Raff a and Dwayne Galloway had 14 and Deba Kone had 12 and 11 re- each. spectively. For Qatar Sports Club, Con- Dominic Davon was the lead- steveous Jeff erson and Anthony ing scorer for Al Rayyan with 21.

Reuters tional contract and the salary Canberra-based Super Rugby Bernard Laporte said Wednes- left by Manoa, Laporte said. Al Sadd’s Saeed Erfan Ali (L) going for the basket against Rayyan’s Melbourne top-up aff orded to Wallabies side ACT Brumbies expires at day. The news is a blow for the Yasseen Musa during their Qatar Basketball League match yesterday. players, the Reds admitted they the end of the season, has ex- Top 14 giants, coming just a day Ex-France captain Pape were unable to compete at the pressed an interest in taking a after Irish lock Paul O’Connell extends Stade contract allabies openside negotiating table. year-long sabbatical to study. announced his retirement from Former France captain Pas- fl anker Liam Gill is “He has international aspira- However, Gill’s departure has all rugby through injury with- cal Pape will see out the rest of heading overseas tions but plays in a position in also fuelled media speculation out ever having donned a Tou- his career at Stade Francais af- to play in France which Australia have signifi cant that Pocock could head north lon shirt. ter signing a one-year extension Wat the end of the Super Rugby depth and he felt he would have to shore up the Reds pack along Manoa, who arrived in Tou- through to 2017, the reigning season in a blow for the ailing limited Wallaby opportunities,” with Wallabies captain Stephen lon from Northampton in the Top 14 champions announced Queensland Reds and Austral- general manager Daniel Herbert Moore, who has already an- summer, injured his knee in yesterday. ian rugby. said in a statement. nounced he is Brisbane-bound the 29-21 friendly defeat by the “I’m very happy. I think I can The highly-rated 23-year- “Whilst we are disappointed in 2017. Sharks on Friday, having previ- do another season as a player old has been linked with a move to see him go, there are limita- The Brumbies, who were fu- ously sustained an injury in De- and that pleases me because I Top 14 side Toulon, having been tions to what we are currently rious at losing hooker Moore, cember. The 30-year-old will will defi nitely fi nish my playing shut out of Australia’s back row able to do if players garner over- said on Wednesday that con- miss several league games as career at this club which is what for the last two years by David seas interest and aren’t in the tract negotiations with Pocock well as the quarter-fi nals of the I wanted,” explained Pape on Pocock, Michael Hooper and top band of Wallabies.” were far from over. European Champions’ Cup and the Paris-based club’s website. latterly Sean McMahon. Overseas-based players with “It creates all sorts of problems possibly the semi-fi nals. The 35-year-old lock joined A shining light for the Reds fewer than 60 test caps are not if Poey takes a break,” Brumbies Toulon, the three-time de- Stade from Castres in 2007 last year in an otherwise gloomy allowed to play test rugby under chief executive Michael Jones told fending European champi- and played 65 times for France season, Gill would join Wal- Australian Rugby Union (ARU) News Ltd media of the proposed ons, currently only have Joce- before announcing his interna- labies Quade Cooper, Matt Gi- rules aimed at retaining local sabbatical. “My preferred solu- lino Suta, Romain Taofi fenua, tional retirement following last teau, Drew Mitchell and James talent. tion, and our off er to him, doesn’t Thibault Lassalle and Konstan- year’s World Cup. O’Connor at the French side Gill’s move would therefore allow a break.” tin Mikautadze in the lock de- Meanwhile, fellow second- owned by comic book tycoon make him ineligible to play for Meanwhile Toulon’s US inter- partment, the latter two having rower Paul Gabrillagues, 22, has Mourad Boudjellal. the Wallabies from 2017, at a national forward Samu Manoa also picked up injuries against penned a three-year deal tying With Gill, who was capped time when Pocock might also be is to undergo an operation on his the Sharks. For that reason, him down until 2019 with Sta- 15 times for the Wallabies from unavailable for selection. injured left knee and will be out Toulon will look at taking on a de having graduated from the 2012-13, missing out on a na- Pocock, whose contract with for around three months, coach medical joker to plug the gap club’s youth academy. Action from Gharafa-Qatar Sports Club match.

SPOTLIGHT McIlroy sees Phoenix Open fan the fl ames of golf’s future

Ewan Murray and Friday’s golf was watched days until the K Club hosts the priced; free entry on Tues- during tournament week, The Guardian by 160,415. Saturday? 201,000, 2016 version. McIlroy, it is clear, day, $30 tickets on Wednesday sets the Phoenix Open apart. reckoned to be the largest in the wants the Irish Open to build on and Thursday and $40 from Some 15,000 fans are routinely history of golf. last year’s success. Taking notice Thursday onwards. Under-17s crammed around that one hole, n antidote to tales of By the time Hideki Mat- of what happens in the provid- with adults can attend for free. plus extensive corporate boxes golf’s demise, added suyama had beaten a tear- ing of arguably the fi nest fan Among those who should take which are greatly sought after by to further examples of ful Rickie Fowler in a play-off , experience in golf makes perfect note of fair, attractive cost is the blue-chip companies. the sport working for a an aggregate crowd of 618,365 sense. The added connection, of R&A, which continues to charge That exact scene probably greaterA good, arrived once again had been recorded, beating the course, comes by way of charity like the Light Brigade for Opens. can’t be replicated elsewhere but from Arizona at the weekend. 2015 record of 564,368. Placed benefi ts. The wider point is that what it is an annual example of what The Waste Management in some context, the elongated “My commitment to making Phoenix hosts feels like a major happens when the public imagi- Phoenix Open has not so much Open Championship at St An- the Irish Open as successful as event. For too long, and in too nation is captivated, as assisted evolved as a tournament since drews last July pulled in 237,000. it can possibly be is well known,” many places, those organising by golfers who clearly revel in the moving to Scottsdale in 1987 as Also in 2015, the Thunderbirds McIlroy explained. golf tournaments have believed atmosphere. blasted into a fresh commercial charity group – which distrib- “If we can learn anything at the appearance of the sport’s Tiger Woods’s hole-in-one at stratosphere. The numbers at- utes its share of income from the Rickie Fowler lines up a putt on the second playoff hole during the all from such a huge event on biggest names in immaculate the 16th, back in 1997, remains a tached to this event are quite golf to needy causes – dished out final round of the Waste Management Phoenix Open at TPC the PGA Tour, that can only be surroundings should be enough marquee moment and one which staggering. $9m, which equated to all of the Scottsdale in Scottsdale, Arizona. (Getty Images/AFP) a good thing. I was delighted the to thrill the masses. undoubtedly played its own part It has become self-fulfi lling; tournament’s profi t. foundation was given the chance This constitutes laziness, if in catapulting the tournament this is one stop on the PGA Tour That fi gure is sure to increase stop, which was once little more of the Irish Open, as now spon- to learn more about what has not negligence. It represents an narrative. that spectators are desperate to this time around. Thunderbirds than a tiny spot in the desert. sored by Dubai Duty Free, last made Phoenix so popular. antiquated business model; not Golf has suffi cient stories of play a part in. The tournament Charities was established in Barry Funston, the chief execu- year at Royal County Down saw “Last year at Royal County only does golf have more compe- woe for the positives to be ac- has been dubbed the “biggest 1986 with the sole aim of using tive of Rory McIlroy’s charity fresh life breathed into an event Down was a massive success but tition than ever before for peo- centuated when they arrive. party” in golf. money from the tournament to foundation, attended the Phoe- which had earlier become wor- that was just the start of my in- ple’s time, money and attention, Phoenix is the latter; a wonder- Attendance fi gures regularly “assist children and families, nix Open at the weekend with ryingly stagnant. volvement in the tournament. but those watching want more. ful tale of making the sport in reach half a million. Last week, help people in need and improve the specifi c intention of meeting McIlroy’s involvement should Any opportunity we have to They want to feel a part of competitive form work. It should almost 30,000 turned up for a the quality of life in our commu- with Thunderbirds and learning form part of his professional make it bigger and better, we will something special and to en- be hailed as thus. Tuesday practice day; that fi gure nities” throughout Arizona. what has made the tournament legacy; his ambitions to grow the look to maximise.” gage; one glance at the amphi- If Ireland – plus the European rose to 58,000 on Wednesday, The endearing news is that such a success on all levels. tournament are obvious even in Two simple factors play a part theatre 16th hole at Scottsdale, Tour – soon earns a spin-off , a while the tournament’s fi rst day others are looking to take inspi- The link is straightforward; brief conversation. in this booming Phoenix scenar- one of the most memorable nod is due towards eff ective re- proper had a crowd of 101,021 ration from an alluring PGA Tour the Rory Foundation’s hosting There are now under 100 io. Firstly, the golf is brilliantly golfi ng spots in the world now search and planning. Gulf Times 10 Thursday, February 11, 2016 SPORT

ATHLETICS GOLF Takeyasu, Lee set early pace Rypakova, Barshim AFP Dhaka

apan’s Shunya Takeyasu and Soomin Lee of South Korea carded impressive seven- under-par 64s to share the opening- round lead in the $300,000 Bashundhara lead Asian Indoor BangladeshJ Open yesterday. Fresh from his maiden Asian Development Tour victory in Malaysia last week, the 23-year- old Japanese began his charge with a fl awless display to hit seven birdies. Lee, who fi nished in the top 10 in the Myan- mar Open also last week, was equally impres- sive at the Kurmitola Golf Club in Dhaka. Cham’ships star cast The duo hold a one-shot lead over Thitip- hun Chuayprakong of Thailand, who took third place with six-under-par 65. Defending Asian and World indoor champion Mutaz Barshim leads the men’s Takeyasu, playing his fi rst Asian Tour event this week, needed only 23 putts around the chart of 175 competitors, while Olympic triple jump champion and Asian record-holder Olga course—including a 32-footer putt for par on the fi rst hole. Rypakova from Kazakhstan is undoubtedly the one to watch among the 115 female athletes “I played solid today, especially my putting. I sank a long putt on the fi rst hole and that was kind of the highlight for me today,” he said. By Sports Reporter Lee, who fi nished tied second in the inaugural Doha edition of the tournament last year, was thrilled to put up another excellent performance in one of his favourite hunting grounds. he reigning Olympic tri- “I feel very excited out there. I had a good fi n- ple jump champion, 2014 ish last year and I was very happy because it was World Indoors gold medal- my fi rst year playing on the Asian Tour,” said list and winners of 14 dis- the 22-year-old Korean in comments supplied Tciplines from the previous edition by the organisers. of the Asian Athletics Association’s Home favourite Siddikur Rahman, a two- fl agship indoor competition are time Asian Tour winner, is tied in 14th position among the list of 432 athletes rep- on 68 along with several other players. resenting 37 nations, who are due to compete at the 2016 Asian Indoor Leading scores Championships, to be held in Aspire 64: Shunya Takeyasu (JPN), Soomin Lee (KOR) Dome between February 19 and 21. 65: Thitiphun Chuayprakong (THA) Local hero and defending Asian 66: Shubhankar Sharma (IND) Pavit Tangkamol- and World indoor high jump cham- prasert (THA), Mithun Perera (SRI) pion Mutaz Barshim leads the men’s 67: Kevin Techakanokboon (THA), Sutijet chart of 175 competitors, while Ol- Kooratanapisa(THA), Namchok Tantipokhakul ympic triple jump champion and (THA), Gaganjeet Bhullar (IND), George Gandra- Asian record-holder Olga Rypakova nata (INA), Rahul Bajaj (IND), Piya Swangarun- from Kazakhstan is undoubtedly the porn (THA) one to watch among the 115 female athletes preparing to fl ock to Aspire Dome’s state-of-the-art facility. Among those aiming to dupli- Garcia, Valderrama cate their 2014 success are Qataris to host Spanish Open Samuel Francis (60m), Musaeb Ab- dulrahman Balla (800m), Mohamed alderrama will stage the Spanish al-Garni (1500m & 3000m), besides Open for the first time in April, with Barshim. Vthe Sergio Garcia Foundation as Mahdi Zamani and Maryam Toosi off icial host of the event at the course in from Iran will also be looking to de- Sotogrande, southern Spain, the European fend the 400m titles they captured Tour announced yesterday. in , , as will Ku- The venue, that in 1997 became the first waitis Abdulaziz Almandeel (60m course in mainland Europe to stage the Ry- hurdles) and Saleh Alhaddad (long der Cup, will host the opening tournament of jump), and Japan’s Tomomi Abiko in the European season from April 14-17, a week . The 400m Asian champion and consisting of 23 athletes. Among after the US Masters at Augusta, with close India’s Om Prakash Karhan is Indoor record-holder Abdalleleh them is in-form 19-year-old pole- to two million euros ($2.25 million) of prize rated among the favourites in the Haroun as well as Tosin Ogunode, vaulter Huang Bokai, who showed money on off er. shot put in his quest for back-to- the 2014 surprise package who ran his potential by clearing 5.60 re- Garcia (pic), who has won 11 times on the back Asian Indoor titles, as is Uz- 6.50, a 60m Asian record when not cently, and 2012 champ Ling Li, the European Tour and has been in five victori- bekistan’s . yet eligible to represent Qatar inter- women’s pole vault Asian record- ous Ryder Cup teams, set up his foundation Nevertheless, compatriot Nadiya nationally, may as well fi nd them- holder. in 2002. “This is a whole new way of working Dusanova’s presence will surely pile selves climbing on the top of the Zheng Xingjuan, a former Asian together with the European Tour and I am pressure on her plans for a repeat in podium. champion, is expected to challenge very proud to be a part of it,” he said in a the high jump competition. The fi rst medals of the champi- Radzivil in the high jump, while Cao statement yesterday. Kazakhstan’s Elina Mikhina, a onships will be awarded to the win- Shuo in triple jump, Minjia Lu in “I personally have great memories of 4x400m gold medallist from 2014, ners of the women’s triple jump, an long jump and Tianqian Guo in shot the golf course, having won the Andalucia aspires to double her titles as well, event which is overshadowed by the put look certain to enforce China’s Valderrama Masters there in 2011 and I am but she should expect stiff opposi- presence of Kazakh diva Rypakova. bid to reclaim the top spot from sure that all the players who tee up in April tion in the 400m, the event she has At the age of 31, she remains one reigning champs Qatar on the medal will enjoy testing their game against the signed in. of the event’s top guns. Her medal table. fantastic layout,” the statement added. Local hope Francis, a three-time winning capacity, particularly when Bahrain are represented by a winner over the 60m, will be chas- the going gets tough, guided her to 17-strong team (12 of them women, ing a fourth title on the opening day the 2015 IAAF World Champion- more than any other nation). Asian of the championships (20:45) local ships bronze in . 3000m record-holder Albert Rop time when the gun sounds the start Rypakova has great memories and the Asian 400m hurdles cham- of the short dash fi nal. from the Aspire Dome arena, a ven- pion Oluwakemi Adekoya, who is Olympic bronze medallist ue where she won an Asian title in entering the 400m, are the team’s Barshim is more likely though to add 2008 and the World title in 2010. main assets. a fourth title to his incleasing tro- Other notable entrants are Saudi Japan’s main gold medal hopes phy collection, following successive Arabia’s Mohamed Salman al-Khu- lie on pole-vaulter Seito Yamamoto victories in 2010, 2012 and 2014. walidi, the long jump area record who jumped 5.77 in mid-January. Barshim sailed over 2.34m earlier holder and the only “survivor” from Kazakhstan, besides Rypakova this year in Malmo and judging by the 2004 golden generation—the and Valiyev, has high expecta- his own recent statement, he has set athletes who won at the inaugural tions from their new shot put Asian his sights not only on another con- Asian Indoor Championships. record-holder (20.51) Ivan Ivanov tinental indoor accolade, but on a Al-Khuwalidi, along with Kaza- and 60m sprinter Victoriya Zyab- new area and World Indoor record khstan’s triple jumpers Roman Vali- kina (7.24 season best). as well. yev and Rypakova, are the only three Apart from al-Khuwalidi, the The hosts, who aim to set a new 2008 winners who are returning to Saudis may count as well for a po- gold-medal haul record and thus Doha for a second golden taste in- dium fi nish on Mohamed Othman surpass their 2014 fi ve-star tally, side the famous Aspire Dome arena. Shaween in the 1500m and the shot have more arrows in their quiver China is sending, along with put outdoors area record-holder, besides the aforementioned. hosts Qatar, the largest delegation Sultan Abdulmajeed al-Hebshi.

BOXING Doha Open all set to begin on Monday at Katara

By Sports Reporter visitors to the venue. Anyone above the age of 17, ir- Qatar in the future. Doha QBF President Yousuf Ali respective of nationality, can take “We are developing boxing as Qatar Boxing al-Kazim has said he wants more part in the event provided he has we go along. We have won medals Federation chief and more youngsters to embrace got his name registered with the at the regional level. We are now Yousuf Ali al-Kazim he sixth edition of the the sport and expects that events QBF. “This will be a new addition looking to promote in a bigger way Doha Open boxing like the Doha Open will help in to the QBF calendar besides the and this event is just one of the championship will be held garnering more interest for the Qatar International Boxing Cham- many that we have planned for the at the beachfront amphi- sport of boxing. pionships in May,” al-Kazim said. future,” the QBF chief said. Ttheatre of the Katara Cultural Vil- “We have been getting inquir- Doha hosted a hugely successful The medicals and weigh-ins will lage from February 15-17, a Qatar ies from youngsters interested in AIBA World Boxing Champion- be held on Sunday, a day before the Boxing Federation release stated playing the sport seriously. So we ships in October last year which tournament. The QBF also organ- yesterday. thought of getting everybody to- saw around 260 boxers from over ized a community boxing event – The three-day event, which the gether and make them compete in 50 countries vying for the honours. Boxing for All – at Katara on Tues- organisers hope will help unearth diff erent weight categories,” said The Doha Worlds also served as a day on the occasion of the National local talent, is open for all nation- al-Kazim. selection event for the Rio Olympic Sport Day. alities and residents of the country, “The unique thing about this Games to be held this August. The one-day event was attended and will be unique in the sense that event is the open air feel to it. Even “Our boxers are better than their by fans and visitors of all ages and it will be held in the open as against the boxing rings will be built in the counterparts in the region but they nationalities. The activities on the previous editions which hap- open. Many visitors come to Ka- have to do much more to match the the day included interaction and pened in closed venues. tara daily and the event would be international boxers. We hope to meeting with stars of the Qatar The 6pm start, feels the QBF, easily accessible to all,” the QBF unearth some good talented boxers national boxing team, boxing tips will also help draw more fans and chief added. from this event who can represent and training, and fi tness programs. Gulf Times Thursday, February 11, 2016 11 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Camels adapt to the sand, by winning the NSD Katara beach rugby challenge ‘Sport in particular rugby fosters courage, health, fitness, team building and togetherness. It gives me great pleasure to look around and see players and fans from various countries and backgrounds. That’s what our sport, rugby is about’

Action during the final of the 2016 Beach Touch Rugby Challenge which was held at Katara beach as part of the National Sport Day celebrations. The final was won by the Camels national team after they defeated Al Khor 3-2 in extra-time.

By Sports Reporter at the Camels to be fi nally rewarded business squads like WOQOD, the Ka- Doha with a diving try to level the score 2-2 tara Eagles and the Doha Chiefs. just before full time. All year round touch rugby squads The scene was set for a thriller in ex- such as the Hurricanes, the Storm, he 2016 Beach Touch Rugby tra time as the young boys took it to the Doha Greens and the Wu Touch Clan Challenge was held on Tues- Fijian internationals. They threw eve- returned for their second year while day at Katara beach no.4. rything at the Camels who in one mo- new entrants from schools such as With strong winds and tion turned defence into attack scoring Sherborne and Dukhan could not resist Tvarying temperatures, the challenge a Golden try ending Al Khor’s dream the temptation of playing in the biggest was very testing for all sixteen (16) run. The win to the Camels leaves Touch Rugby challenge and against the teams but it was the Camels national them undefeated on Qatar soil in any National Rugby team. team that added another trophy to rugby competition. The 3-2 victory The competition presented by QRF their collection by winning the ‘NSD also makes the Camels - Qatar’s Beach was a huge success according to al- - Beach Touch Rugby Challenge’ on Touch Rugby Champions for 2016. Kuwari, who spoke to the media after Tuesday evening in front of hundreds Earlier in the day, a very sporty look- the match. He said, “QRF offi cials and of screaming fans after downing the ing QRF President Yousef al-Kuwari organisers did an outstanding job pro- youthful and energetic Al Khor 3-2 in opened up proceedings welcoming all moting and presenting the competi- extra time. teams and their huge supporter base. “I tion. We played 300 minutes of Beach tremendous job in organising all the wanting to challenge our Camels Na- fi ve gruelling hours of beach rugby Both teams went into the Cup fi - wish to thank you all for your attend- Touch Rugby, that’s 5 hours of non- activities and aff ording us the space tional team. Credit goes to the Sher- things couldn’t be any better”. nal undefeated, tired and sore from ance and willing to participate in our stop rugby action. We entered 12 teams and logistics to hold such a successful borne and Dukhan schools for their Rico paid tribute to the personali- their previous six gruelling matches fi rst National Sport Day’s beach touch initially and 16 turned up to play so we event”. great feats today. As for Al Khor, their ties and sponsors saying, “On behalf on the sand. The Camels lead by the event. Sport in particular rugby fosters altered our schedule. We couldn’t re- QRF General Secretary Ali al-Malki young ones are full of energy and skill. the QRF I wish to express my gratitude Fijian connection were fi rst to score courage, health, fi tness, team build- ject anyone wanting to play sport on said, “What a fantastic day on the I think they can run all day. They gave to Katara’s Events Director Adel al- but enjoyment was short lived when ing and togetherness. It gives me great NSD. As for the crowds it peaked at beach. Thanks to all our partners es- us a little fright well done to them and Ansari and beach Manager Mihai Pau- Al Khor’s youthful determination saw pleasure to look around this morning 1,000 just before 3.00pm. This includ- pecially to Katara and WOQOD who to all the participants and their sup- nescu for their professionalism and them reply immediately afterwards. and see players and fans from various ed spectators, families and friends all played empathic supporting roles to porters”. outstanding work. A special thanks Both teams desperately tried to outwit countries and backgrounds. That’s who seemed to enjoy the Karata beach make today happen. QRF is proud to be QRF Senior Coordinator Samuel to our catering partners Nandos and and manoeuver each other however, what our sport, rugby is about.” atmosphere and wanting to watch the part of the NSD celebration and hopes Rico was delighted by the turn out and candy friends Tasmeem. IEC once half time beat them leaving the scores The WOQOD sponsored beach chal- last fi nals”. to make Beach Touch Rugby an annual expressed his gratitude to all partici- again proved their worth as media deadlocked 1-1. lenge attracted 160 players from 16 Al-Kuwari later praised Katara and event on our sports calendar”. pating teams saying. “I was so happy to partners while the biggest credit must The second half was played at a fu- teams including squads from the cur- the CEO Dr Khalid al-Sulaiti saying With schools entering the competi- see so many people wanting to be active go out to our main sponsors WOQOD rious pace and again it was the Camels rent national Sevens Rugby champi- “The ongoing strong support and en- tion for the fi rst time and others want- on NSD. Achievement today was not and in particular WOQOD’s PR Chief who drew fi rst blood taking the lead onship such as Camels 1 & 2, Al Khor, dorsement by His Excellency, Dr Kha- ing a crack at the Fijian connection only on the pitch. Match conditions Sheikha Sara al-Thani who attended 2-1. With time running out for the bay CNAQ and the Blue Falcons. The com- lid al-Sulaiti should not be overlooked, al-Malki said, “It was very exciting to such the sun, wind, sand and time are the beach challenge with great enthu- boys of Al Khor they drove rapid settles petition also appealed to corporate and he and his committee have done a watch the other teams and school kids battles within themselves. They played siasm”.

National Sport Day celebrated by the Qatar Tennis Federation Qatar Golf Association celebrates NSD 2016 with golf tournaments

In commemoration of the Qatar National Sport Day 2016, Qatar Golf Association hosted simultaneous activities yesterday in Katara and Doha Golf Club. Tournaments were held at Doha Golf Club Championship Course for Adults and Academy Course for Junior Academy. The Qatar Golf Association wants to extend its heartfelt thanks and gratitude to all the players, Doha Gold Club, Qatar National Olympic Committee, the State of Qatar and The National Sport Day activities organised by the Qatar Tennis sponsors: Al Melia Hotel and Vodafone Qatar for their support Federation saw huge crowds, across all ages, taking part. and co-operation.

Thursday, February 11, 2016 GULF TIMES SPORT

Tour of Qatar gets CRA approval for 518 licences and AIPS Congress concludes radio equipment Approvals granted to facilitate import and use The concluding day of the 79th AIPS Congress saw presentations and speeches by of radio communication devices, wireless cameras representatives of FIFA, IAAF, FIG, Qatar Tourism Authority. Among the speakers and broadcast equipment

during the morning session were FIG president Bruno Grandi, IAAF deputy director By Sports Reporter of communications Anna Legnani, and Nicolas Maingot, FIFA’s acting director of Doha

communications and public aff airs division. The delegates were also given a tour of he Communications Regula- tory Authority (CRA) has the World Cup venues and the Labour City in the aft ernoon. PICTURES: Thajudheen Tfacilitated the radio com- munication requirements of the international cycling event Tour of Qatar 2016 with temporary licens- ing and approvals for the import and use of radio equipment. As Qatar’s communications regulator, CRA manages licences and services relating to the import and operation of telecommunica- tions equipment, including radio devices, wireless cameras and broadcast equipment. Clear, high quality and interfer- ence-free radio communication is essential to the success of elite cycling competitions such as the Tour of Qatar, and CRA played a major supporting role in line with its national mandate which includes fostering a thriving com- munications sector for Qatar and managing scarce resources such as the radio spectrum. The Tour of Qatar 2016 is a high profile international competition and significant preparation and planning was required to service an event of this scale. CRA played its part to contrib- ute to the success of the event and met the challenges set in a professional manner with all nec- essary approvals granted quickly and eff iciently. CRA received a large number of applications requesting approvals and licensing of radio equipment related to the Tour of Qatar. In total, CRA approved 439 diff erent types of radio equip- ment, and 36 diff erent frequency channels for the organiser, and 26 diff erent types of radio equipment and 17 spot frequency channels for broadcasters. Approvals were granted within a short time period to meet the needs of the Tour and CRA also extended its full support for the timely release of imported equip- ment shipped to Qatar. The Communications Regula- tory Authority (CRA) is the com- munications regulator in the State of Qatar, established by virtue of Emiri Decree (42) in 2014. CRA regulates the communica- tions and information technology sector, postal services, and access to digital media. It uses its regulatory powers mandated by the Emiri Decree to protect consumer rights, ensure competition, manage the resolu- tion of disputes, and manage the electromagnetic spectrum. In all its activities, the CRA seeks to ensure the provision of advanced, innovative and reliable ICT and postal services across the State of Qatar.

The 2016 Tour of Qatar cycling race concludes tomorrow.

FOOTBALL FIFA confi dent reforms will get vote of approval AIPS Issues such as terms limits had failed absolutely essential and I think this mes- Nicolas Maingot, Doha to attract the necessary support in the sage has been received," Maingot said. past but Maingot was certain that, after "The body which came up with these FIFA's acting the events of last year, the world game proposals was chaired by an independent director of IFA is confi dent that the world belatedly understood the need to move person in the former director-general of communications, football federations have taken forward. the IOC but was composed of 12 indi- was one of the on board the need for reform and Maingot noted that FIFA's 'normal ac- viduals appointed by the confederations keynote speakers will unite in providing the votes tivities'—tournament organisation and and that should give us confi dence that on the concluding essentialF to push the world governing development programmes—had been the reforms should be pushed through," body into a more credible new era. unaff ected by the variety of scandals, he added. day of the AIPS A gospel of hope to that eff ect was de- crises and arrests. Even if the reforms were approved, Congress yesterday. livered by Nicolas Maingot, FIFA's act- However, the need for governance changes could not occur overnight. "It While admitting ing director of communications, at the change was imperative. Hence a pack- will take us quite some time and this that FIFA's image AIPS annual congress in Doha yesterday. age developed by a reform committee will all depend on what will come next, had taken a beating Most of the focus of the extraordinary chaired by Swiss lawyer Francois Car- but we are all working hard to recover as congress on February 26 in Zurich has been rard would be put to vote in a fortnight's soon as possible. due to the various directed at the election of a new president time, Maingot informed. "It's essential that we are (perceived) curroption scandals, to succeed disgraced and banned Sepp The proposals include converting the by all of you, media and fans, as ethical, Maingot said he was Blatter but probably more important will executive committee into an expanded approachable, humble and transparent. hopeful that the be a vote on a package of reforms. council with a separation of political and It will take time because our credibility proposal of reforms Maingot set out the reforms to dele- managerial responsibilities, term limits has been seriously aff ected in some ar- gates from the world's sport media asso- and pay transparency etc. eas. would be passed ciations and explained the voting system "Those reforms are here to help not "The events of the last nine months with a thumping among the 209-member associations. only FIFA but the entire football com- have had a negative impact on sponsor- majority during the The reforms involve a change of statutes munity around the world. It's about ship. That's quite clear... but certainly FIFA Congress in which demands the approval of at least regaining trust and credibility and im- we are positive that things will evolve Zurich on February 75 per cent of the eligible voters, which proving our reputation to those who positively once the reforms have been comes to 157. matter most—who are the fans. That is adopted," Maingot said. 26.