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Home , Aryna Sabalenka, Gianluca Lapadula

FFOOTBALLOOTBALL | Page 2 HHORSEORSE RRACINGACING | Page 4 Paqueta World’s best sends Brazil Arabians for past Peru into Qatar Int’l Copa fi nal Stakes

Wednesday, July 7, 2021 CRICKET Dhul Qa’da 27, 1442 AH England name new GULF TIMES squad for Pak ODIs aft er virus outbreak SPORT Page 3 SPOTLIGHT Fift een athletes to represent Qatar at Tokyo Olympic Games Two female athletes – Bashayer Almanwari in 100m athletics and Tala Abu-Jubara in rowing – will represent Qatar

nder the theme of ‘We Are Team Qatar’, the Qatar Ol- ympic Committee (QOQ) launched its promotional Ucampaign to support Team Qatar stars ahead of their participation in Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games to take place from July 23 to August 8. A phrase that represents the pride and unity of Team Qatar to unite the audience behind the team from all demographics. A total of 15 athletes will proudly will focus on some important messages represent Qatar in seven sports at To- as it calls on all the sporting commu- kyo 2020 Olympics as Team Qatar will nity to get behind Team Qatar stars as compete in a total of seven sports and 6 they strive to make our nation proud. track and fi eld disciplines. Two female As the QOC is leaving no stone un- athletes will participate in the sports of turned in preparation for the upcom- Rowing and Athletics. Team Qatar ros- ing Olympics Games, it encourages its ter in Tokyo 2020 Olympics includes; followers on social media platforms Mutaz Barshim, Abderrahman Samba, to show their support for team Qatar Abubaker Hayder, Abdirahman Saeed stars through the following accounts; Hassan, Musab Adam, Femi Ogunode, Instagram: Qatar Olympic Twitter: Ashraf Amgad El-Seify (athletics), Mo- Qatar Olympic Facebook: TeamQa- hamed al-Rumaihi (shooting), Fares tar YouTube: TeamQatar Snapchat: Ibrahim (weightlifting), Cherif You- TeamQatar. nouse, Ahmed Tijan (beach volleyball), Qatar’s development in sport is built Ayoub al-Idrisi (judo) and Abdulaziz on a far-sighted vision alongside years al-Obaidly (swimming). of hard work and commitment. Team The Qatari women will be repre- Qatar athletes grew in an environment sented by Bashayer Almanwari in 100m supported by world class development event and Tala Abu-Jubara, the fi rst programmes and state-of-the-art Qatari female athlete to represent Qatar sport facilities as they are paving the in Rowing at the Olympic Games. The way in inspiring future generations to QOC campaign ‘We Are Team Qatar’ represent Team Qatar. High Jumper Mutaz Barshim (left) and 400m hurdles runner Abderrahman Samba are Qatar’s brightest medal hopefuls at Tokyo Olympics.

WIMBLEDON Hurkacz sends Barty keeps Cawley dream alive as Jabeur exits Medvedev

AFP crashing out London and sets shleigh Barty yesterday moved Federer date a step closer to achieving her goal of winning the Wimble- Reuters don women’s crown on the London A50th anniversary of fellow indigenous Australian ’s fi rst title victory. oland’s Hubert Hurkacz Barty outplayed fellow Australian ousted second seed Da- Ajla Tomljanovic – appearing in her fi rst niil Medvedev after the quarter-fi nal at the age of pair returned yesterday 28 – winning 6-1, 6-3 to progress to the toP fi nish their rain-hit match semi-fi nals. World number one Barty, and reached his maiden major though, will need her top game if she is quarter-fi nal where he will meet to reach the fi nal as she plays in-form ’s Aryna Sabalenka stretches eight-time Wimbledon win- 2018 champion in to- for a return en route to her win against ner . World No 2 morrow’s semi-fi nals. Tunisia’s at the Wimbledon Medvedev was leading Hurkacz Kerber, who beat Karolina Muchova yesterday. (AFP) by two sets to one on Monday 6-2, 6-3, is the only remaining player with the fourth set on to have already been in the last four at my heart on the court and enjoying my when play was cancelled for the tournament. Former world number time.” the day because of rain after the one Karolina Pliskova will play Aryna Pliskova had little trouble in brush- players had spent two hours and Sabalenka of Belarus in the other semi- ing aside Golubic with the unseeded 25 minutes on Court Two. fi nal. Sabalenka showed all the fi ghting Swiss only troubling the Czech towards But the 24-year-old Hurkacz, qualities and power of the tiger tattoo the end of the match. “This was my fi rst seeded 14th, looked a completely she sports to end the historic run of Ons appearance on Court One this year and diff erent player when the match Jabeur of Tunisia, winning 6-4, 6-3. I had to work really hard to get to this restarted under the closed roof Pliskova reached her fi rst Wimble- court,” said Pliskova. “I feel like I am of Centre Court, triumphing don semi-fi nal outclassing Switzer- improving with every match.” 2-6, 7-6(2), 3-6, 6-3, 6-3. “Play- land’s 6-2, 6-2. Sadly ing on this unbelievable court, the quarter-fi nals did not provide the RESULTS (X DENOTES SEEDED probably the best in the world, greatest of thrills or entertainment for PLAYER): with an amazing crowd is really the capacity crowd on Centre and Court special,” Hurkacz said. “Daniil is Men fourth round: Hubert Hurkacz One. It was the fi rst time the tourna- Australia’s (right) embraces compatriot Ajla Tomljanovic after winning the women’s quarter-final match at the an unbelievable player. We bat- (POL x14) bt (RUS ment has had maximum crowds after Wimbledon at The All England Tennis Club in Wimbledon, southwest London, yesterday. (AFP) tled so hard. So to win is incred- the Covid-19 limit of 50% capacity was x2) 2-6, 7-6 (7/2), 3-6, 6-3, 6-3 Women ible... I knew I needed to get off lifted. Some hardy souls armed with wearing a specially-designed dress in visits to Wimbledon but she prevailed supporters in the crowd, can depart Quarter-finals: Ashleigh Barty (AUS) to a strong start today and I think umbrellas and rugs sat on Henman Hill tribute to the ‘iconic’ scallop one Caw- with some authority over her 26-year- having done all she could to achieve her x1) bt Ajla Tomljanovic (AUS) 6-1, 6-3; I did a pretty good job.” to watch on the big screen despite driv- ley wore for her 1971 title success. She old opponent. goal that her success will galvanise a Angelique Kerber (GER x25) bt Karolina Next up for the world number ing rain. was delighted to have reached the last “I’m happy it looks like everything swathe of young Arab women, especial- Muchova (CZE x19) 6-2, 6-3; Karolina 18 will be the 39-year-old Fe- World number one Barty already has four even if Kerber is a formidable op- is working for me,” said Sabalenka, ly in North Africa, to take up the sport. Pliskova (CZE x8) bt Viktorija Golubic derer, the 20-time major win- a 2019 title to her credit ponent especially on grass. “It’s the who will try and go one better than her Kerber looks a real threat after the (SUI) 6-2, 6-2; Aryna Sabalenka (BLR x2) ner, who defeated him in their but in previous years had yet to show ultimate test,” said Barty. “Angie’s had compatriot who lost 33-year-old eased to success over Mu- bt Ons Jabeur (TUN x21) 6-4, 6-3 only previous meeting in 2019 she could add Wimbledon to the Grand success here before. I love that match- twice in the semis in 2011 and 2012. chova. “It’s a magical place for me,” at Indian Wells. “Roger, what he Slam list despite winning the junior title up. This is a dream come true.” “It’s really tricky, shots on the grass. It’s said Kerber, who is a three-time major does, the titles he has won, is a in 2011. Her best previous showing was Sabalenka let out a roar and pumped sometimes hard to do anything with the winner, after securing the 80th victory WOMEN’S SEMI-FINAL LINE-UP real inspiration,” Hurkacz said a fourth round appearance in 2019. her arms in the air after outgunning ball. It fi ts my game and I’m really en- of her career on grass. “I was excited Ashleigh Barty (AUS x1) v Angelique about the Swiss great. “I will be Barty, though, seems motivated to Jabeur. The second-seeded Sabalenka joying my time on the court.” to play the grass court season after a Kerber (GER x25); Karolina Pliskova hoping to get a little bit of sup- win it on Cawley’s anniversary even had won only once on her previous three Jabeur, who had several Tunisian one year break. I am so happy having (CZE x8) v Aryna Sabalenka (BLR x2) port tomorrow.” Gulf Times 2 Wednesday, July 7, 2021 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT England fans dare to dream of Euro 2020 glory as Denmark semi looms

AFP “home” tournament for the Three Lions. Be- Maguire admitted that home advantage London lief is growing in a nation weary of the coro- would benefi t England in the last four, with navirus pandemic and hungry for success that bigger crowds allowed back into Wembley as Southgate’s young team can deliver glory for coronavirus limits are eased despite a surge in ngland is gripped by Euro 2020 fervour the fi rst time since the 1966 World Cup. infections. The Manchester United player said as Gareth Southgate’s men prepare to Cars and homes are decked out with St the atmosphere in the Germany game was one take on Denmark for a place in the fi nal George’s Cross fl ags and British Prime Minister of the best he had experienced, with Neil Dia- of a major tournament for the time in Boris Johnson has reportedly given the green mond’s “Sweet Caroline” belted out by 40,000 55E years. light for pubs to remain open later on Sunday delirious fans. England will walk out to a wall of noise at to prepare for a potential England fi nal. “We’ve got even more fans in the stadium for Wembley today with the bulk of a crowd of Johnson, who unveiled a huge England fl ag the semi-fi nal,” he said. “It’s going to be elec- 60,000 willing them on, backed by millions of on Downing Street before the Ukraine game, tric, it’s going to be a great atmosphere. passionate supporters at home. tweeted: “We’re all behind you for the semi- “We’re on this journey together as players, Southgate’s side started the tournament fi nals, bring it home.” staff and fans, and they’re right behind us. slowly but have rapidly picked up momentum, British astronaut Tim Peake praised the We’re really feeling their support and their love beating old foes Germany in the last 16 and team for their performance in the quarter-fi - and it’s really pushing us, spurring us on to do hammering Ukraine 4-0 in the quarter-fi nal nals, saying: “Bring on the semi-fi nals!” great things.” in Rome. One man has covered his house with 64 Former England captain Alan Shearer, who Nearly 21 million people tuned into the England fl ags, with donations going to charity. England’s Harry Kane (right) with teammates during training session at the St George’s Park, reached the semi-fi nals at Euro 96 on home Ukraine game, making it the most-watched “We are on a main road and there are a lot Burton Upon Trent, Britain, yesterday. (Reuters) soil, urged the current generation of players to live TV event of the year, but that record is of buses and work people going past and the drink in the atmosphere. likely to be obliterated against Denmark. response has been brilliant,” Lee Johnson told around the country as they seek to reach a fi rst enables that,” he said. “You can’t escape the atmosphere, but then Southgate’s men are back at home on the BBC. “We get a lot of people beeping and European Championship fi nal in England’s “We’re on this journey together. Us, play- you don’t really want to - it’s an incredible Wednesday, and would play at Wembley again screaming ‘come on the boys’.” history. “We see all the positive vibes and the ers, staff , fans, we’re all in this together. We all feeling, knowing the whole nation is support- if they reach the fi nal against either Spain or Defender Harry Maguire said the play- videos going around. It’s a great atmosphere want the same thing, we all want to win foot- ing you on a stage as big as this,” he wrote in his Italy, as the pan-European event turns into a ers were aware of the mounting excitement to be involved in and winning football matches ball matches and go as far as we can.” BBC column.

FOOTBALL FOCUS Damsgaard making most of unexpected Paqueta sends Brazil Euro 2020 baptism

AFP the national team, almost like Rome Christian Eriksen in his prime,” wrote BT. Like the Inter Milan mid- hrust into the starting fi elder, Damsgaard is technically past Peru into Copa line-up after Christian adept, strong with both feet and Eriksen’s near-fatal possesses great vision. cardiac arrest, Mikkel “I have been inspired by him, DamsgaardT has emerged as Den- 100%,” he told Danish news mark’s revelation of Euro 2020, agency Ritzau. ‘We paid for being slow helping his country resurrect a “He is one of the players I have campaign that was almost over watched the most. I really looked to settle into the game’ before it started. up to him when I was younger America fi nal Nicknamed ‘Damsinho’, the and played more like a number gifted Damsgaard, whose fl am- 10, just like him.” AFP charlison. And when Gallese suf- boyant talent has caught the eye Damsgaard though is quick to Rio de Janeiro fered a rush of blood to the head of Europe’s elite, embodies the point out the two play diff erent and charged out of his area only enthusiasm and determination roles, explaining: “I’m a bit more to be beaten to the ball by Rich- of a Danish team that faces Eng- on the wing and in attack than tar forward Neymar set arlison, Brazil couldn’t capitalize land in Wednesday’s semi-fi nal him.” up Lucas Paqueta to score as Peru’s defenders threw them- at Wembley. His performances haven’t the only goal as hosts selves in front of Everton’s shot. “I could never have dreamed gone unnoticed either in Italy, Brazil beat Peru 1-0 on Peru were non-existant as an of a better birthday present. It’s where Damsgaard made steady MondayS to qualify for the Copa attacking force and when they crazy to get to Wembley,” said the progress this season under Clau- America fi nal. did manage to win a corner just Sampdoria winger, cited by Dan- dio Ranieri at Sampdoria. The semi-fi nal was a repeat after the half hour, they ended up ish daily BT, after Saturday’s 2-1 He played 35 times in , of the last fi nal, two years ago, playing the ball all the way back quarter-fi nal win over the Czech scoring twice and adding four when a Brazil team shorn of the to Gallese. Republic, on the day of his 21st assists, no mean feat in a league injured Neymar also triumphed Brazil deservedly took the lead birthday. where it can be hard for young- on home soil. 10 minutes before halftime after “It’s an adventure to be here. sters to settle. The Selecao will play either Peru gave the ball away in mid- Crazy, after everything that has “Ranieri has been crucial in Lionel Messi’s Argentina or Co- fi eld for the umpteenth time. happened.” accelerating my adaptation to lombia, who meet in Brasilia to- Neymar’s twinkling toes got Hand-picked by Kasper Hjul- Italian football,” Damsgaard said day, in Saturday’s fi nal at Rio de him free of three defenders in the mand to rebuild the attack in the in an interview with Sportweek Janeiro’s iconic Maracana sta- box and he teed up Paqueta to fi re absence of Eriksen, Damsgaard is magazine in February. dium. home from 12 yards. more familiar than most with the “I needed to make the step “I want Argentina. I’m sup- Denmark coach, who handed the up by playing more competitive porting Argentina because I have SELF-PRESERVATION Jyllinge-born youngster his pro- football than the Danish league... friends there and Brazil will win Peru fi nally had their fi rst at- fessional debut at Nordsjaelland and I have to say that it matched the fi nal,” said Neymar. tempt at goal on the counter at- in 2017. “He’s a super player,” my expectations, I needed that.” “Paqueta is a great player, he’s tack four minutes after halftime, said Hjulmand. While under contract until getting better in every game and but goalkeeper Ederson comfort- “The fact that’s he’s been able 2024 at Sampdoria, a successful in every game with the national ably parried Gianluca Lapadula’s to throw himself into this and fi rst year in Italy punctuated by a team,” he said about the 23-year- powerful drive. do it on this stage (Euro 2020) is surprise breakout display at the old match winner, who plays his Soon after, Raziel Garcia shot fantastic,” he told Danish media. Euro has already drawn inter- club football for Lyon in France. wide twice in quick succession as est from big clubs, including AC “He’s just had a great season Peru showed far greater ambition ‘100 PERCENT INSPIRED Milan. with his club and is showing that than during the fi rst period. BY ERIKSEN’ But he will have to bide his he can be a very important player Peru were now on top with His superb opening goal in the time at Sampdoria, who are for the Brazilian national team.” Garcia at the heart of their attack crucial 4-1 group-stage win over reluctant to let go of a player and his shot on the hour mark Russia saw him become Den- bought for six million euros from GALLESE THWARTS BRAZIL was parried by Ederson. mark’s youngest scorer at a Eu- Nordsjaelland a year ago. Brazil totally dominated the fi rst Brazil started to wrestle back ropean Championship. “How much is he worth? I half at the empty Nilton Santos control and Everton shot straight The Danes scraped through as don’t know because he’s not for stadium in Rio but had to survive at Gallese before Neymar blazed runners-up of Group B despite sale. I am keeping a tight hold some nervous moments after the well over the bar. losing their fi rst two games, and of him and we’ll help him to de- break before securing a spot in Peru should have been level Damsgaard impressed again in velop because I want to get to the the fi nal. nine minutes from time when the 4-0 thrashing of Wales. amount he’s worth, between 30 They opened up Peru on eight Yoshimar Yotun fi red a free-kick “He resembles a graduate and 50 million. He’s a pure tal- minutes as Paqueta’s pass sent into the box and Alexander Cal- fresh out of school... but on the ent,” said Sampdoria president Richarlison in behind the de- lens beat Ederson to the ball but big stage at the Euro, he appears Massimo Ferrero, in a bid to ward fense, but after beating goal- headed wide from just six yards like an old, seasoned fi ghter for off potential suitors. keeper to the ball, out. the forward tried to pull it back It would prove their last to Neymar who blazed high and chance and coach Ricardo Gare- wide under pressure. Gallese ca rued their slow start. spilled a fi erce Casemiro free- “We paid for being slow to set- kick from distance but gathered tle into the game,” he said. the loose ball before winger Ever- “The team reacted well in the ton could turn in the rebound. second half and it was even.” Brazil were turning the screw But he admitted the 4-0 group and Everton cut in off the right stage thumping Brazil handed fl ank but shot straight at Gallese. Peru earlier in the tournament, The Peruvian shot-stopper and a 4-2 home defeat in World was the busiest player on the Cup qualifying in October, had Brazil’s Lucas Paqueta celebrates aft er scoring pitch in the fi rst quarter and after aff ected their approach. against Peru during their Conmebol 2021 saving another Casemiro pile- “We have to admit that we Copa America semi-fi nal at the Nilton Santos driver from distance he made an wanted to protect ourselves a Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. (AFP) incredible double point blank bit given we’ve conceded a lot of save from Neymar and then Ri- goals against Brazil.”

UEFA invites Eriksen and medics who saved him to Euros fi nal European football governing body UEFA he would attend. One of the paramedics, from Germany’s 16 states. Most matches euros for the 22-year-old who won Serie has invited Denmark international Chris- Peder Ersgaard, said he was honoured in Germany’s top football league were A with Inter last season. tian Eriksen and the paramedics who to receive a VIP invite from UEFA boss played behind closed doors last season helped save his life during an on-field car- Aleksander Ceferin. because of the Covid-19 virus. The new Montreal stays alive in NHL finals diac arrest to attend the Euro 2020 final Bundesliga season starts on August 13. Josh Anderson’s second goal at 4:21 of at Wembley on Sunday. The brilliant Dan- German football gets green overtime lifted the Montreal Canadiens to ish midfielder was resuscitated in front light for fan return next season Inter wing-back Hakimi joins PSG a 3-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning of shocked fans and a massive global TV Bundesliga clubs and other Ger- Paris Saint-Germain announced yester- in game four of the Stanley Cup finals. audience during his nation’s first match man sports venues will be allowed day they had signed Morocco wing-back Anderson’s game winner came moments of the tournament. UEFA said Eriksen, to welcome up to 25,000 spectators Achraf Hakimi from Inter Milan on a after Montreal had killed off a four-minute his wife and six medics were invited to from next month, the city of Berlin said five-year deal. According to reports the Tampa powerplay and it cut the Lightning’s Denmark’s forward Mikkel Damsgaard leaves the team hotel in the final, but there was no confirmation yesterday after a meeting of off icials Parisians have paid around 60 millions series lead to 3-1 in the best-of-seven series. Helsingor on their way to London to play their UEFA EURO 2020 semi-final against England. (AFP) Gulf Times Wednesday, July 7, 2021 3 SPORT

OLYMPICS CRICKET England name whole new squad for Tokyo Games at risk Pakistan ODIs aft er virus outbreak

AFP of more spectator London en Stokes will captain an entirely new England squad featuring nine uncapped players for a one-dayB international series at home to Pakistan, after the ex- curbs, downgrades isting group was forced to self- isolate because of a coronavirus outbreak within the hosts’ camp. JAPAN MAY BAR ALL BUT VIP SPECTATORS FOR GAMES OPENING, SAYS ASAHI England, the 50-over world champions, were all set to fi eld Reuters an unchanged squad after beat- Ben Stokes to captain England Tokyo ing Sri Lanka. squad. (AFP) But those plans were ripped up after three of their players and one vaccination, Giles was con- apan is considering bar- four support staff , all as yet un- fi dent, England’s upcoming fi ve- ring all but VIP spectators named by the England and Wales Test series at home to India and from the opening cere- Cricket Board, tested positive for fi ve-Test tour of Australia could mony of the Tokyo Olym- Covid-19 in Bristol on Monday go ahead as scheduled. pics,J a newspaper said yester- following the washed out third “We want to get cricket on, day, another downgrade for the ODI against Sri Lanka on Sunday. and we’ll do everything possi- Games that have had their pomp The rest of the group involved ble,” the former England spin- and spectacle tarnished by the in a 2-0 series win – Sunday’s ner said. “We’ve learned a lot novel coronavirus. match in Bristol was a no-result through this process.” Once promoted as an ex- – were forced to self-isolate. The Pakistan Cricket Board travaganza to showcase Japan Nevertheless, the three-match (PCB), thanked by Giles for their to the world, the Games appear series against Pakistan, start- “understanding”, said in a state- in danger of taking place largely ing in Cardiff tomorrow, will go ment they were “satisfi ed by the without spectators in a country ahead, with the fi t-again Stokes assurances and guarantees pro- closed to visitors from abroad taking over the England captain- vided by the ECB on behalf of its because of the pandemic and cy from Eoin Morgan. medical panel”. with areas around Tokyo still Ashley Giles, the ECB’s man- Britain is experiencing a surge under restrictions. aging director of men’s cricket, in the Delta variant of the coro- The Games, already delayed insisted yesterday he was “very navirus but mass vaccinations a year, are set to open on July 23 confi dent” there had been no have stopped that translating despite concern that an infl ux breach of team protocols and put into surge in hospital admis- of tens of thousands of people the outbreak down to a slight sions or deaths. Three Sri Lanka from around the world could relaxation around travel and ac- players were sent home before trigger new waves of infections. commodation plans and the Delta their recent white-ball matches Plans for the opening cer- variant. Giles said keeping play- in England for Covid-security emony remain under wraps but ers in last year’s “bio-secure” breaches and the PCB stressed it the Asahi newspaper, ahead of bubbles was now deemed too re- had advised team management talks with the International Ol- strictive, hence a move to what he to exercise “extra caution” while ympic Committee and other The Olympic fl ame is passed from torch called a “safe environment”. in hotels or at match venues. organisers, reported that the to torch as spectators look on during the “I’m very confi dent the play- Test batsmen Zak Crawley government would slash the Tokyo 2020 Olympic torch relay on ers haven’t breached any of those and Dan Lawrence will now number of VIPs, such as spon- the fi rst day of the relay in the Saitama protocols. We can’t say where it have a chance to make their 50- sors’ guests and diplomats, at prefecture, amid the coronavirus disease originated. The squad have been over debuts for England, with the opening ceremony from an outbreak, in Asaka, Japan, yesterday. living under very tight restric- the ongoing round of County initial estimate of about 10,000. (Reuters) tions,” said Giles. Championship matches beset During the Games, events at “I don’t believe we’ve gambled by withdrawals. The squad in- large venues and those after 9 at all. We are fully aware of the cluded several other white-ball p.m. would also be held without likely to decide on Thursday to on hold as countries around the expected to be celebration of a possibility. Suga was keen to risks – that is the knife edge that newcomers in Durham’s Brydon spectators, the paper said, citing extend a state of quasi-emer- world grapple with new out- recovery from a deadly earth- have fans in the stadiums, the we are working on all the time. Carse and the Middlesex pair of multiple unidentifi ed govern- gency in Tokyo and three nearby breaks, they now say the Games quake, tsunami nuclear accident Asahi said, but added some rul- “As well as looking after our Tom Helm and John Simpson. ment sources. prefectures beyond an original will help bring together a divid- in 2011. ing party members wanted a people and keeping them sane But there was still no place Organisers have already end-date of July 11, government ed world. In 2015, then-prime minister ban, especially after the ruling as much as anything, we’re pro- for Alex Hales, one of the global banned spectators from overseas sources have said. In another blow, the Olympic Shinzo Abe promised visitors coalition failed to win a majority tecting the revenues of the whole game’s leading white-ball bats- and set a cap on domestic spec- Kyodo News reported that torch relay, set to reach Tokyo on would be able to use self-driving in an election for the Tokyo’s as- game – and it’s a really diffi cult men, who has been in England tators at 50% of capacity, up to the extension would likely last Friday and parade through the cars to run around Tokyo and a sembly on Sunday, partly due to balance to strike,” he added. exile since being dropped on the 10,000 people. With the public a month, meaning the curbs will city until the opening ceremony, start-up backed by Toyota Mo- dissatisfaction with the govern- With all of the England squad eve of the 2019 World Cup after nervous about new clusters of be in place throughout the Ol- will be moved off public roads. tor Corp said in 2017 it aimed to ment’s Covid-19 response. understood to have had at least a positive recreational drugs test. infections, medical experts have ympics, which close with a cer- Instead, torch-lighting cer- light the Olympic fl ame with its That poll is seen as a bell- said no spectators would be the emony on August 8. emonies without spectators will fl ying car. wether for a general election least risky option. be held, the Yomiuri newspaper The coronavirus has brought later this year. Japan has not SPOTLIGHT The question of spectators is TORCH RELAY reported. Organisers also said everyone down to earth. had the explosive Covid-19 out- due to be decided at fi ve-way When the Games were post- they would ask the public not Asked about spectators, top breaks seen elsewhere but has talks also expected on Thursday poned last year, Japanese offi - to gather to watch the marathon government spokesman Katsu- seen more than 800,000 cases that will include the Tokyo gov- cials said they hoped they would and walking races being held on nobu Kato told a news confer- and more than 14,800 deaths. India dismiss ‘B-team’ ernor and IOC President Tho- be held in 2021 as a symbol of streets. ence that Prime Minister Yoshi- A slow rollout has meant only a mas Bach, who arrives in Japan “victory” by humankind over When Japan was awarded hide Suga has said holding the quarter of its population has had that day. The government looks the virus. With that celebration the Games in 2013, they were Games without spectators was at least one vaccination. claims on Lanka tour

CYCLING Afghanistan appoints Rashid Twenty20 Cavendish closes in on Merckx’s mark skipper The Afghanistan Cricket Board yester- day appointed spinner Rashid Khan as skipper for the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup to be held in the United Arab Emirates. The 22-year-old had briefly led Afghanistan in 2018-19 before leaving the post saying he was better off as a player. While he had recently voiced reservations about leading the team, fearing it could aff ect his bowling, Khan expressed gratitude yesterday. “It is my duty now to serve my country & my team,” he tweeted. “Thank you #ACBoff icials for the trust & believing in me. It is a dream journey & my fans support will be the key.” Afghanistan sacked all-format skipper Asghar Afghan in May, naming Hash- AFP ready for that challenge,” he matullah Shahidi as Test and one-day New Delhi added. “We are just here to have international captain while deferring some fun, enjoy this series and the announcement for the Twenty20 take a lot of positives from here.” internationals (T20Is). Afghanistan ndia batsman Suryakumar Ranatunga, 57, said the tour said middle-order batsman Najibullah Yadav yesterday shrugged off undermined the country’s “dig- Zadran will be Khan’s deputy for the complaints that only a weak- nity” as he attacked Sports Min- shortest format. Khan previously led ened side had been sent to Sri ister Namal Rajapaksa and Sri Deceuninck-Quick-Step rider Mark Cavendish of Britain celebrates as he crosses the finish line to win stage 10 of the Tour de Afghanistan in two Tests, losing one ILanka for a limited overs tour. Lanka Cricket. Kohli is leading France yesterday. (Reuters) and winning the other while in seven Former Sri Lanka captain Ar- the full strength India side pre- one-day internationals he lost six and juna Ranatunga slammed the is- paring for fi ve Tests in England Reuters Slovenian Tadej Pogacar retained line and was forced to spend valuable won one. His record in the T20Is was land’s sports leaders for agreeing starting next month. Valence, France the overall leader’s yellow jersey as he energy to make his way back into the better as he won four of the seven he to the tour by a “B Team” Indian Yadav is among a host of play- stayed safe in the leading peloton in a bunch. captained, losing the other three. With side without top stars Virat Koh- ers in Sri Lanka looking to im- nervy fi nale in the Rhone valley. Cavendish’s team produced a bru- his uncanny leg-spin, li, Rohit Sharma, Mohamed Sha- press selectors before the Twen- ark Cavendish edged closer Belgian Tosh van der Sande and Ca- tal acceleration to split the peloton as Khan has 95 wickets in 51 T20Is at an mi, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh ty20 World Cup in the United to Eddy Merckx’s all-time nadian Hugo Houle were the two break- crosswinds blew on the road, leaving economy of 6.21 runs per over - the best Pant. Arab Emirates in October-No- Tour de France stage wins away riders of the day but on the mostly several riders trapped behind, although among current international bowlers. The team led by opening bats- vember. record yesterday when he pancake-fl at terrain, their chances of the main overall contenders were on the Afghanistan will play the main rounds of man Shikhar Dhawan will play “It’s a great opportunity for Mclaimed his third victory in this year’s beating the peloton were close to zero. right end of the split. the Twenty20 World Cup from October three one-day internationals and everyone having a tour amid this race. Van der Sande halted his eff ort with The 36-year-old Cavendish, back on 17-November 14. three Twenty20 matches start- situation,” said Yadav, who plays The Briton won a bunch sprint to take 38km left and Houle was reined in two the Tour for the fi rst time since 2018, Afghanistan has been placed in Group ing July 13. Yadav insisted that for fi ve-time champions Mum- the 10th stage, a 190.7km ride from Al- kilometres further down the road. stayed in teammate Michael Morkov’s B alongside India, England and South Ranatunga’s comments had not bai Indians in the Indian Premier bertville, to rack up his 33rd career win Michael Matthews’s Bike Exchange wheel until 250 metres from the line and Africa, with two qualifiers from the aff ected the squad as it prepares. League. on the Tour, one fewer than Belgian team upped the pace on a short hill to none of his rivals could match his burst first round to join them. Defending “Everyone is completely fo- “It’s a great challenge and re- great Merckx. Cavendish, perfectly set- try to get rid of some of the heavier of speed. champions the West Indies will be with cused, the way the practice ses- sponsibility for each and every up by his Deceuninck-Quick Step team sprinters, but Cavendish followed. Cavendish also extended his lead in Pakistan, Australia, New Zealand and sions are going,” Yadav told a vir- one to come out here and express mates, beat Belgians Wout van Aert and Italian champion Sonny Colbrelli the points classifi cation, which he won two qualifiers in Group A. (AFP) tual news conference. themselves,” he added. “I am ex- Jasper Philipsen. suff ered a mechanical 28km from the in 2011. “We are really excited and cited and looking forward to it.” Wednesday, July 7, 2021 GULF TIMES SPORT

HORSE RACING World’s best Arabians entered for Qatar International Stakes The £400,000-mile contest is the most valuable race in UK Arabian racing and over that distance for Arabians in Europe

he Qatar Racing and Equestrian in terms of the quality of horses it at- Club (QREC) and the Arabian tracts, as you would expect with the Racing Organisation (ARO) very generous prize money on off er. It were delighted to see some of is very pleasing to see EBRAZ and TAYF Tthe world’s best Arabians among the amongst the entries, as their rivalry 21 horses entered for the Qatar Inter- over the last fi ve years has really caught national Stakes (Gr1 PA), following the the wider racing public’s imagination. fi rst entry stage which closed at 12 noon We’re also pleased to see plenty of do- on Monday. mestic entries, the opportunities to The £400,000-mile contest is the try our horses at the highest level both most valuable race in UK Arabian rac- here and internationally have been ing and the most valuable over that limited because of Covid and we hope distance for Arabians in Europe. The that some of them prove that they can fi rst six home from 2020 could all re- progress further.” oppose on 28th July in what promises to Haynes concluded: “ARO is ex- be another exciting renewal as part of tremely grateful for the ongoing sup- the QREC-sponsored Qatar Goodwood port of UK Arabian racing by Qatar Festival, which will take place between Racing and Equestrian Club, who have 27th and 31st July. been sponsoring this race at the Qa- HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Khalifa al- tar Goodwood Festival since 2015. We Thani’s Ebraz, who has won the last two would also like to thank the BHA and runnings, could face HH Sheikh Abdul- everyone at Goodwood and Fontwell lah bin Khalifa al-Thani’s Tayf, who racecourses for their assistance in en- beat him in 2017, but added into the mix suring that our overseas runners in par- and new to Goodwood, are the progres- ticular, have every chance to participate sive young mares HE Sheikha Yasmeen on July 28th whilst we continue to face bint Mohamed bin Khalifa al-Thani’s the challenge of Covid.” Mon’nia and Khalifa bin Sheail al-Ku- wari’s Lady Princess. PREVIOUS WINNERS, GROUND All four are closely matched on Qa- AND TIMES tar form when Mon’nia led home her stablemate Ebraz in this year’s HH The 2020: EBRAZ (GB) HH Sheikh Moham- Amir Sword (Gr1 PA), with Lady Prin- med Bin Khalifa al-Thani; Julian Smart cess and Tayf fi lling the places. They (Qatar), Maxime Guyon; Good, 1.47.23 could be joined by Deryan, winner of Ebraz, ridden by Maxime Guyon, won the Qatar International Stakes at Goodwood for a second time in 2020. (Debbie Burt) 2019: EBRAZ (GB) HH Sheikh Moham- the 2021 Dubai Kahayla Classic (Gr1 med Bin Khalifa al-Thani; Julian Smart PA), who was second in this. Last year’s Julian Smart, trainer of Ebraz, International Stakes as one of our most (Qatar), Maxime Guyon; Good, 1.47.56 fourth was Bel’izam, who had beaten Mon’nia and Amyr Du Soleil, com- valuable races and part of our commit- Ebraz in their prep run, Shadwell – mented: “We’re just waiting with bated ment to promote Arabian racing. We are 2018: MURAAQIB (FR) HH Sheikh Ham- Coupe Du Sud-Ouest Des Pur-Sang breath to see if we can come over or not. very pleased to see this race, once again, dan Bin Rashid al-Maktoum; Francois Arabes (Gr3 PA), in France. It would be great if we can as it’s a very attracting some of the world’s top Ara- Rohaut (France), Jim Crowley; Good, Horses returning after a break in- important race and for Ebraz to run in it bians and promising to be a fabulous 1.48.00 clude the leading juvenile colt of 2019 for a fi fth time, would be very special.” addition to the Qatar Goodwood Fes- 2017: TAYF (FR) HH Sheikh Abdullah HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Khalifa al- The domestic challengers include tival. I’m sure fans of all forms of rac- Bin Khalifa al-Thani; Alban de Mieulle Thani’s Amyr Du Soleil, and Durat Al eight from the UK’s top ten horses, ing will be fascinated by the spectacle (Qatar), Olivier Peslier; Soft, 1.55.77 Zaman, whilst completing the overseas headed by Al Kaaser and Loolwa. They of the Arabian horses at Goodwood. challenge is the lightly raced fi lly the could be joined by Abiyah Athbah who QREC would like to thank ARO and 2016: AL MOURTAJEZ (FR) Al Shaqab Al Shaqab Racing and Nada Mousalli- raced prominently last year, when beat- Goodwood for the excellent coordina- Racing; Thomas Fourcy (France), Julien owned Ryme Al Cham. A Group3 PA en a nose for fourth place and Tijaary tion and co-operation.” Augé; Good to Firm, 1.43.54 winner, her family is well known to who fi nished sixth. Both were hav- Group3 PA winner Storm Troupour will an exciting prospect. Genny Haynes, Arabian Racing Or- 2015: SIR BANI YAS (FR) HH Sheikh the UK as she is a three-parts sister to ing their fi rst outings due to a Covid- be making his fourth appearance in the HE Issa bin Mohamed al-Mohan- ganisation (ARO) Commercial and Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Suc. Group1 PA winners Al Mouhannad and delayed start to the UK season, which race, whilst the sole four-year-old Wa- nadi, QREC Chairman, said: “We are Finance Director said: “The Qatar In- J-F Bernard (France), Jean-Bernard Al Chammy. will not be a factor this time around. naasa, steps up to this level, but looks proud of our sponsorship of the Qatar ternational Stakes never disappoints Eyquem; Good to Firm, 1.46.35

SPOTLIGHT TENNIS Al Shaqab Racing’s Wahraan Djokovic and Federer in Wimbledon opens account on fi ft h start landmarks as title showdown nears AFP London

ovak Djokovic and Roger Federer can inch closer to a Wimbledon title showdown today Nwhen they make landmark ap- pearances in the quarter-fi nals. World number one Djokovic, chasing a sixth title at the All England Club and record-equal- ling 20th Grand Slam, plays his 50th quarter-fi nal at the majors. The Serb tackles Marton Fucso- vics, the fi rst Hungarian man to get this far since 1948. Federer, just fi ve weeks shy of his 40th birthday, is in his Wahraan ridden by Ryan Moore en route to winning the Ben And Mary Hibbert Memorial Maiden 18th Wimbledon quarter-fi nal Stakes at Pontefract, England yesterday. (Steve Davies / sdphotos.co.uk) and 58th at the majors. He faces 18th-ranked Hubert Hurkacz, unning in the colours of Al Shaqab Rac- by Martin Harley, raised a strong challenge and only the fourth Polish man to ing, the three-year-old colt Wahraan ranged upsides Wahraan looking threatening. make the last-eight after knock- Switzerland’s Roger Federer acknowledges the applause as he leaves the court after beating Italy’s (FR) (Le Harve x Al Jassasiyah) took the Inside the fi nal furlong and under a drive from ing out world number two Daniil Lorenzo Sonego in the fourth round match at the Wimbledon on Monday. (AFP) Ben And Mary Hibbert Memorial Maid- Moore, Wahraan began to get the better of his Medvedev. enR Stakes at Pontefract Racecourse in England nearest rival and stayed on stoutly to line to score Having already become just garian, Djokovic has only faced tournament-leading 67 aces and following a win at the 2019 yesterday. Trained by Sir Michael Stoute and rid- by 1¾ lengths. The pair pulled a long way clear of the third man to win all four nine break points through four dropped serve just twice. Davis Cup. Left-handed Shapo- den by jockey Ryan Moore, the chestnut colt got the David Elsworth-trained and J F Egan-ridden Slams more than once by lift- rounds at the tournament. Fe- Berrettini reached his maiden valov followed up his win over off the scoresheet on his fi fth attempt when tak- Pirouette Queen (GB) (Pivotal x Something Ex- ing his second French Open last derer, chasing a ninth Wimble- Slam quarter-fi nal at the French two-time champion Andy Mur- ing the 2,000-metre class 5 contest for 3-year- citing) who came out of the pack to fi nish further month, Djokovic now has an- don title, won his only meeting Open last month where he lost to ray with a straight-sets victory olds and older in game fashion. 6½-lengths behind in third. other record in his sights. He is against Hurkacz, in straight sets Djokovic. Auger-Aliassime, 20, over 2019 semi-fi nalist Roberto Breaking quickly from the stalls, Wahraan was Bred by his owners Al Shaqab Racing, Wahraan halfway to a rare calendar Grand in the Indian Wells quarter-fi nals is in the last-eight of a Slam for Bautista Agut. Khachanov has quickly taken to the front by Moore and the duo is a son of Monfort and Preaux’s stallion Le Harve Slam, a feat only achieved by two in 2019. the fi rst time after knocking out hit with Shapovalov – and even set a steady tempo throughout the fi rst half of and is out of Al Jassasiah (Galileo), whose daugh- other men – Don Budge in 1938 “We’ll see how much more I German fourth seed Alexander admits he’s a fan of the Canadi- the race. Turning for home, the eventual second ter Mashael (Dubawi) was a listed winner and also and Rod Laver in 1962 and 1969. have got left in the tank,” said Zverev in fi ve sets. an’s venture into rap music with PENNYMOOR (GB) (Frankel x Penelopa), who is group three placed when trained in France by An- As a result, the 34-year-old is 39-year-old Federer, the oldest The two are close friends French player Corentin Moutet. trained by John & Thady Gosden and was ridden dre Fabre. already being hailed as the great- man to make the quarter-fi nals while their respective girlfriends “I was sitting with my wife Ve- est player of all time, surpass- in the Open Era. He struggled in are cousins. Auger-Aliassime is ronika watching (Moutet playing ing even Federer and the absent his opener against Adrian Man- dating Nina Ghaibi while Ber- in Mallorca on the eve of Wim- . “I feel privileged narino who had to retire injured rettini is romantically involved bledon), and I told her, You know and honoured of course and very at two sets each. with Australian player Ajla that he’s a rapper, you know? She Murray jumps to Raducanu’s defence as happy to be in this position to “I felt like now I’ve had some Tomljanovic lost in the women’s said, Oh, really? I said, Yeah, he make history in the sport,” said good progress. I’m taking the quarter-fi nals. has a remix with Denis. We were critics blame pressure for withdrawal Djokovic. “At the same time I ball earlier. Obviously I’ve Berrettini defeated his friend listening to that. It was a fun London: Andy Murray has defended British and although it felt like the hardest thing in the need to go about my everyday gotten used to the conditions, in the fi nal of the Stuttgart grass one.” teenager Emma Raducanu after John McEnroe world not to be able to finish my Wimbledon on routines and everyday life on the gotten used to the balls, the court fi nal in 2019. “Both our and several others said the 18-year-old wildcard the court, I was not well enough to carry on.” tour pretty much the same way court speed,” said Federer whose girlfriends are cousins, so it just WIMBLEDON MEN’S pulled out of her Wimbledon last-16 match on Two-times Wimbledon champion McEnroe that I feel it has reaped a lot of comfortable last-16 win against happens that we spend a lot of QUARTER-FINAL LINE-UP success for me.” Lorenzo Sonego was the 105th of time together,” said Auger-Ali- Monday because she could not handle the had suggested on BBC that the occasion “got a (x denotes seeded player): pressure. little bit too much” for Raducanu and compared Djokovic enjoys a 2-0 head- his Wimbledon career. assime. Raducanu’s remarkable Wimbledon debut her anxiety with ’s mental health to-head record over 29-year- Should Federer reach the Today will see two Canadian (SRB x1) v ended in distressing circumstances as she was struggles. old Fucsovics who has made the semi-fi nals, he will face either men in the last-eight of a Slam Marton Fucsovics (HUN); Karen forced to retire against Australian Ajla Toml- Osaka had withdrawn from the French Open last-eight of a Slam for the fi rst Italian seventh seed Matteo Ber- for the fi rst time with Denis Khachanov (RUS x25) v Denis janovic after suff ering breathing diff iculties in after the first round and skipped the grasscourt time. Fucsovics knocked out fi fth rettini or Felix Auger-Aliassime, Shapovalov taking on Russia’s Shapovalov (CAN x10); Matteo the second set. “At the end of the first set, after swing for the sake of her mental well-being but seed in the fourth the 16th-seeded Canadian. Ber- Karen Khachanov. Shapovalov, a Berrettini (ITA x7) v Felix some super intense rallies, I started to breathe Murray said McEnroe was quick to jump the round in fi ve sets after the Rus- rettini, the Queen’s Club win- quarter-fi nalist at the US Open Auger-Aliassime (CAN x16); heavily and felt dizzy,” Raducanu said yesterday. gun without understanding why Raducanu had sian had swept their previous ner, has emerged as a champi- last year, holds a 1-0 career edge Roger Federer (SUI x6) v Hubert four matches in a nine-month on-in-waiting should Djokovic over Khachanov, who made the “The medical team advised me not to continue breathing issues. Hurkacz (POL x14) spell. Worryingly for the Hun- or Federer falter. He has fi red a French Open last-eight in 2019,