SPORT Monday 17 December 2018 PAGE | 08 PAGE | 09 Kohli joins Off-spinner Tendulkar with looms six centuries in as ’s Australia Test hero

Yazeed wins Qatar National Day Trophy

Minister of Culture and Sports, H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali, with the team-members of Yazeed who won the Qatar National Day Trophy (Gr2 PA, Purebred Arabian horses) during the presentation ceremony held at the Al Rayyan Park, yesterday. Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) General Manager Nasser bin Sherida Al Kaabi (right), Turkish actor Camal Hunal (third, right) and QREC officials are also seen.

Southampton Qatar will ‘surprise’ everybody end Arsenal’s unbeaten run at 2022 World Cup, says Xavi AGENCIES Arsenal’s 22-game unbeaten run FAWAD HUSSAIN in all competitions came to an end THE PENINSULA with a 3-2 loss at Southampton in Moment of ‘pride’: Al Thawadi the Premier League on Sunday, Spanish legend Xavi Hernandez with Charlie Austin’s 85th-minute is confident Qatar will host an goal sealing a first win for new ‘amazing’ FIFA 2022 World Cup, THE PENINSULA fantastic as well, having Secretary General Saints manager Ralph Hasenhuettl. saying the country is ready to DOHA of the UN (Antonio Guterre), President of Arsenal twice came from give a unique experience to Ecuador (Lenín Moreno), and high level of behind through goals from Henrikh football fans from all over the Expressing his delight on unveiling of the delegation attending the dinner is no Mkhitaryan and looked like pre- globe. design for Lusail Stadium, Hassan Al doubt for us a moment of pride,” Al serving an undefeated streak in the The former Thawadi Secretary-General, Supreme Thawadi said. league stretching back to August , who is the brand ambas- Committee for and Legacy, termed Commenting on the matter of expanding 18 - a stretch of 14 games. sador of the 2022 FIFA World the development as ‘very important’. the World Cup to 48 teams, Al Thawadi, But Shane Long got free down Cup, was speaking to the media Lusail Stadium, the 80,000-capacity said: ”FIFA President (Gianni Infantino) has the right and sent in a cross that on the sidelines of the design venue will play host to opening and final commended the great work that he has seen went over Arsenal goalkeeper unveiling ceremony for Lusail games of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. It is the on the ground. The great progress that has Bernd Leno and was headed in at Stadium, which will host the eighth venue for the 2022 World Cup. been made so we focus on that. In relation the far post by Austin. It was a opening and final matches of the “The announcement of the design of to the issue of 48 teams, he has also men- winning goal that lifted South- 2022 World Cup, on Saturday the stadium is very important. It’s the last tioned that there is a feasibility study that ampton out of the relegation zone night in Lusail City. stadium and the main stadium as well. Off is being undertaken and ultimately the Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary-General of the with 17 of 38 matches gone. “I am very excited as an course, having the honour of His Highness decision will be made by FIFA and Qatar. So Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC) Danny Ings had earlier put ambassador of the Supreme the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani until the feasibility happens and finalised addressing the gathering during the unveiling of Southampton ahead on two occa- Committee. Qatar is preparing attending the gathering is absolutely there is not much to comment about that.” the Lusail Stadium’s design on Saturday. sions with headers. everything well. I think they (Qatar) are ready. These stadiums Chelsea hold on against are amazing. Everybody will be Brighton surprised a lot that how Qatar Chelsea consolidated fourth will organise the World Cup. I place in the Premier League with think the country is ready in eve- I am very excited as a 2-1 win at Brighton & Hove rything,” said Xavi. Albion yesterday that became The Al Sadd midfielder said an ambassador of the harder work than had seemed preparations of team Qatar, Supreme Committee. likely in the first half. which will make World Cup Qatar is preparing Having won 4-0 at the Amex Stadium last season, they were on debut on home soil, were also on everything well. I think the right track. course for a repeat after taking a “I think they are preparing they (Qatar) are ready. 2-0 lead at the interval. very well. The team is doing very These stadiums are Eden Hazard set up the first well. They have a very good amazing. Everybody goal for Pedro after 17 minutes and coach in Felix Sanchez. He is a scored the second himself before brilliant coach, so they can will be surprised a halftime following a defensive compete. Let’s see at the Asian lot that how Qatar error. Brighton came back into con- Cup in January. will organise the tention through Solly March’s goal “They have a culture of midway through the second half football. They are ready to World Cup. I think the and Lewis Dunk went close to an compete. Everybody can see that country is ready in equaliser. in the last games they won everything: Xavi against and drew Liverpool beat United 3-1 with Iceland. So they are ready Substitute Xherdan Shaqiri FROM LEFT: Barcelona’s French defender Samuel Umtiti, former Dutch player Ronald de Boer, Al and they have time, four years degrees (Celsius), which is perfect scored two goals from deflected Sadd’s Spanish legend Xavi Hernandez, Mainz’s Dutch midfielder Nigel De Jong and former Dutch more,” he said. for playing football. So I am not shots to help Liverpool beat fierce The current Al Sadd captain, star Ruud Gullit during the Lusail Stadium’s design unveiling ceremony. worried about it. The most beau- rival Manchester United 3-1 and lift who has earlier showed his desire tiful thing is it is so compact. You his team back atop the Premier to coach Qatar, hinted to retire “ are doing well. Luis won’t be different. The only dif- Qatar better and ready for the can see three games in one day. League on Sunday. as a footballer next year to start Enrique is the best coach. I know ference is that you can now 2022 World Cup,” Sneijder, who The most important thing is that Shaqiri put Liverpool back in his coaching career. him very well that he can do best watch three games in the same captains Al Gharafa, said. you can feel that there is a World front in the 73rd - within three “I am preparing as a coach, in the national team, but it’s still day. So all these kind of things Cup going on,” he added. minutes of coming on as a sub- maybe next season I will start as early to predict something,” he are an advantage. Let’s take for No problem with Qatar “In , they did a great stitute - with a low strike that a coach. At the moment, I am still said. example Brazil, South Africa and weather: De Boer job but it is so spread out that you deflected off United defender a player at Al Sadd,” said the Russia, it was impossible to travel Dutch great Frank de Boer, don’t really feel that a World Cup Ashley Young and went in off the 38-year-old. World Cup in Qatar a big to watch all the games in three while backing Qatar to deliver a is going on. A World Cup should crossbar. Shaqiri’s second goal Commenting on Spain’s ‘advantage’ for fans: Sneijder days. Now you have this successful World Cup, assured be for the fans. What I experi- clinched Liverpool victory and chances at Qatar 2022, Xavi, Meanwhile, Dutch star advantage and for sure the fans that the weather in Qatar enced in South Africa, in Johan- again came via a ricochet, this time backed his national side to Wesley Sneijder said Qatar 2022 organisation will be perfect. will not affect the mega nesburg where so many teams off Eric Bailly, to deceive United bounce back from heartbreak in will offer huge advantage to fans “The changes that I have seen tournament. were together. The fans together goalkeeper David De Gea in the Russia 2018 where they were who will visit the country for the over one year, it’s amazing. The “I don’t see any problem with celebrating the World Cup. We 80th. stunned by the hosts in the last-16 World Cup. roads, the parks that they are the weather,” he said. are going to experience this even Sadio Mane had given Liv- stage. “It (the World Cup in Qatar) building, they are really making “Right now outside it is 18-25 more,” said De Boer. erpool the lead in the 24th. 08 SPORT MONDAY 17 DECEMBER 2018

SCOREBOARD Australia (I innings) ...... 326 Masterful Kohli joins (I innings) K Rahul b Hazlewood ...... 2 M Vijay b Starc ...... 0 C Pujara c Paine b Starc ...... 24 Tendulkar with 6 V Kohli c Handscomb b Cummins ...... 123 A Rahane c Paine b Lyon ...... 51 H Vihari c Paine b Hazlewood ...... 20 centuries in Australia R Pant c Starc b Lyon ...... 36 M Shami c Paine b Lyon ...... 0 I Sharma c and b Lyon ...... 1 AFP with 127. Countryman Tendulkar is third with 130, U Yadav ()...... 4 PERTH while Don Bradman managed it in just 68. J Bumrah c Khawaja b Lyon ...... 4 The often expressive Indian captain imme- Extras (B4, LB7, NB2, W5) ...... 18 MasterMaster bbatsmanatsman VViratirat KKohliohli ssmackedm his 25th diately took off his helmet, pointed to his bat and Total (all out) ...... 283 centurycentury yesterday and his sisixthxtx h in Australia, joining gestured with his glove that he was letting it do Fall: 1-6, 2-8, 3-82, 4-173, 5-223, 6-251, 7-252, thethe eleliteite companycomppanny of boyhoodboyo hoo hero Sachin the talking for him. Kohli had resumed on 82 and 8-254, 9-279, 10-283 Tendulkar.TeT ndulkaar. barely gave the Australians a glimmer of a chance Bowling: Starc 24-4-79-2 (2nb), Hazlewood 21-8-66-2, Cummins 26-4-60-1 (1w), Lyon PlayingPlayyinng in hhisis 775th5tth Test,Test, the Indian run- in reaching the ton, playing an array of strokes 34.5-7-67-5 machinemmachine did it iinn style with a classic straight all around the . It was his sixth century in Australia (II innings) drivedrd ivve off MiMitchellitct heh ll Starc to rereacha triple figures Australia, matching the feat of Tendulkar and M Harris b Bumrah ...... 20 onn ddayay three ooff the secosecondn Test in Perth. motoring him past Alastair Cook, David Gower A Finch retired hurt ...... 25 HeHe hit 11 fours in the battling 214-ball and Clive Lloyd. U Khawaja() ...... 41 ton afterafter cocomingming ttoo ththee crease on a fast While Tendulkar took 20 Tests to get his six S Marsh c Pant b Shami ...... 5 andand bouncbouncyy ppitchitch withw his team in centuries, Kohli only needed 10, further cementing P Handscomb lbw Sharma ...... 13 troubletrouble at eeightigi ht fforor two in reply to his place as one of the all-time greats. Only Eng- T Head c Sharma b Shami ...... 19 T Paine (batting) ...... 8 Australia’sAustralia’s ffirstirst iinnings total of land’s Jack Hobbs (nine) and Wally Hammond Extras (lb1) ...... 1 326. HHee was eveventually out for (seven) have more. Speaking at the end of day Total (4 ) ...... 132 123,123, ccaughtaua ght aat slip by a diving two, Australia’s Mark Waugh, who scored 20 Test Fall of wickets: 1-59, 2-64, 3-85, 4-120 PeterPeter HaHandscombnd off Pat centuries, said if Kohli brought up three figures Bowling: Sharma 9-0-33-1, Bumrah 13-5-25- Cummins.Cummins. it would rate as one of his finest ever. 1, Shami 10-3-23-2, Yadav 8-0-39-0, Vihar Inn bbringingr up 100, “We know Kohli is a great player and but 8-4-11-0 India’s captain Virat Kohli gestures hee becomebece o the second- given the calibre of Australia’s attack and how fastestfaasstes batsman to 25 foreign these conditions are for the Indians, if to the crowd on day three of the TestTeT st centuries in Kohli does turn this into a hundred it will be one second Test against Australia at Symonds ttetermse of innings, of the best of his career given the factors at play.” Perth Stadium in Perth yesterday. reveals Singh’s emotional apology over Australia build lead of 175 ‘monkeygate’ AFP PERTH

Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh after late India collapse “broke down crying” when he finally made up with Andrew AFP bowlers to make sure we can been at the crease for 310 minutes Symonds after the infamous PERTH defend what we have to. and faced 214 balls. “monkeygate” scandal had sent “Whatever we get to is just Two overs later he produced the Australian all-rounder into Australia were confident yes- going to have to be enough.” the shot of the match when he a downward spiral, he revealed terday that they can overcome a Indian paceman Jasprit lifted Josh Hazlewood over third yesterday. deteriorating pitch to build a Bumrah (1-25), who was almost man for six. A decade on from the ugly match-winning lead in the unplayable at times, said India’s In reaching triple figures, incident in the 2008 second Test in Perth. batsmen would not be deterred Kohli became the second-fastest Test, where Singh was accused At stumps on the third day, by a tough fourth-innings chase. player to reach 25 Test centuries of calling Symonds a “monkey”, Australia were 132 for four, with “We want early wickets in terms of innings with 127, the Australian said they emo- Usman Khawaja on 41 and Tim tomorrow to reduce the total,” he behind only Don Bradman (68) tionally called a truce three Paine on eight, an overall said. “I am confident our team is and ahead of his countryman years later. advantage of 175 after leading by capable of chasing any total but Tendulkar (130). It happened when the pair 43 runs on the first innings we will try to minimise it as much He also joined Tendulkar as were awkwardly reunited by despite a stellar Virat Kohli as possible. the only Indian batsmen to have the Mumbai Indians in the century. The Australians found batting scored six Test centuries in Aus- . Although they still had six extremely challenging in their tralia, and became the first Test “We go to a very wealthy wickets in hand, opener Aaron second innings, playing and centurion at the new venue. man’s place for a barbecue, Finch was taken to hospital for missing time and again as they The Indian captain’s innings drinks and dinner one night and scans after retiring hurt with an battled to extend their lead. came to a controversial end when the whole team’s there and he injured right hand on 25. Shaun Marsh (5) and Peter he was caught at second slip by had guests there, and Harbhajan Australian coach Justin Handscomb (13) again fell a diving Handscomb from the said ‘mate, can I speak to you Langer said Finch had been cheaply, doing little to ease the bowling of Pat Cummins. for a minute out in the garden cleared of serious damage, but pressure on their pair to retain Kohli was given out by the out the front’,” Symonds told was uncertain if he would return their spots in the side. on-field umpires but clearly Fox Sports. to the crease. Marsh played a loose shot to believed it had not carried. “He goes, ‘look, I’ve got to The cracks in the pitch were a short ball from Mohammed However, the decision say sorry to you for what I did starting to become a significant Shami (2-23) and was caught stood after it was to you in Sydney. I apologise, I factor, with Finch’s opening behind, while Handscomb’s reviewed by third hope I didn’t cause you, your partner, Marcus Harris, also shaky defence was highlighted umpire Nigel family, your friends too much struck flush on the helmet by a when he was trapped lbw by Llong. harm and I really apologise for rising delivery in making 20. Ishant Sharma (1-33). what I said, I shouldn’t have said Australian spinner Nathan The struggles of the Aus- it’. Lyon, who claimed five wickets tralian batsmen were a far cry “And he actually broke in the Indian first innings to move from the command of Kohli as he down crying, and I could just see into the top 25 of Test wicket- anchored his team’s first innings Bumrah that was a huge weight off his takers, conceded the pitch was until a contentious dismissal. said the Indians were “a little sur- shoulders, he had to get rid of getting harder to bat on. In reply to Australia’s 326 prised” by the on-field decision, it. We shook hands and I gave He believed Australia was set after winning the toss and batting, while Lyon said the Australians him a hug and said: ‘Mate, it’s to post a total its attack could India were bowled out for 283 believed it was a “great catch”. all good. It’s dealt with’.” defend to level the series. “The despite Kohli’s 123. The Indians lost their last five Singh, who at time denied wicket is starting to play a few Kohli reached his century wickets for just 35 runs to hand any wrongdoing, was charged more tricks,” he said. with a classic straight drive off Australia a small but valuable with racial abuse and suspended “We know we have the paceman Mitchell Starc, having lead. for three matches. But the ban was overturned when India threatened to quit the tour in what was an all-time low in India-Australia relations. The Indian captain makes It left Symonds feeling let down by the system while the need for teammates and close it look so easy with 123 friends Matthew Hayden, Adam Gilchrist, Ricky Ponting and REUTERS always very animated with his celebration,” India Michael Clarke to step up as wit- PERTH quick Jasprit Bumrah told reporters. “It’s always nesses weighed on his con- fun to watch it from the dressing room.” science. Symonds has previ- Virat Kohli has proved time and again he can be Kohli had walked in on Saturday with his team ously recounted how his life pretty vocal but yesterday the Indian captain let on a precarious eight for two and by the time Pat went downhill after the incident. his bat do the talking with a sublime century on Cummins dismissed him for 123, he had forged He started drinking heavily day three of the second Test against Australia. three significant partnerships of 50 or more to and in June 2009 his The Indian run-machine hit his 25th Test guide the India to a respectable 251-6. Australia contract was with- century, injecting fresh life into India’s reply to “We were in trouble but he carried the team drawn after he was sent home Australia’s first-innings total of 326. with that knock,” Bumrah said. “He’s been doing from the World Twenty20 fol- While frontline batsmen from both sides it for a while. He’s an inspiring leader, who leads lowing the latest in a series of struggled on Perth’s new stadium track, the feisty from the front. It’s a great thing for us.” alcohol-related indiscretions. Indian joined compatriot Sachin Tendulkar as the Kohli needed 127 innings to register 25 test cen- “I suppose this would be the only visiting batsmen to have scored six test hun- turies, second only to Australian great Don moment where my whole dreds in Australia in the last seven decades. Bradman, who required 68. His dismissal was not persona to cricket changed,” And when it came to celebrating the hundred, without drama either. Kohli edged Cummins to Symonds said of “monkeygate”. actions spoke louder than words as Kohli placed second slip where Peter Handscomb took a low Australia’s batsman Usman Khawaja pulls a ball away from the “I didn’t realise how powerful his helmet on the ground, pointed to his bat and catch. Debate will rage on as to whether it was a Indian bowling on the third day of the second Test match in one player, one incident, how made a yapping gesture with his gloved hand. clean catch, but third umpire Nigel Long did not Perth yesterday. much money was at stake and “I really have no idea what he meant but he’s have conclusive evidence to overturn it. the ramifications.” MONDAY 17 DECEMBER 2018 SPORT 09 Lyon looms as Australia’s Test hero REUTERS Lyon has claimed 13 wickets said Lyon. “I don’t think I’m at PERTH in the series to continue his the top of my game yet. I believe Australia’s Nathan Lyon shows the ball after stranglehold over India as a des- there is a lot more around the taking five wickets on day three of the second Nathan Lyon hopes to provide a perate Australia seek a series- corner for me.” Test against India in Perth yesterday. desperately-needed tonic for levelling victory after a narrow A cult hero in Australia, Lyon Australia’s beleaguered sup- first-Test defeat in Adelaide. has been nicknamed the “GOAT” porters after the veteran off- Only James Anderson, (Greatest of All Time) and has an spinner’s five-wicket haul helped Muttiah Muralitharan and Imran opportunity to provide cheer for his side build an ominous lead in Khan have taken more Test a nation still reeling after the an enthralling second Test wickets against India, earning damaging Newlands ball-tam- against India. Lyon significant praise from pering fiasco. On a grassy Perth Stadium Indian great Sachin Tendulkar “Playing for Aus- pitch, dubbed a ‘paceman’s par- who said on social media that the tralia, we have an opportunity to adise’, Lyon stole the show to be Australian was a “very special become heroes,” he said. the pick of Australia’s bowlers spinner”. “That is something that sits with 5-67 from 34.5 overs in “He’s one of the greatest of very special to me that you can India’s first innings of 283. all time to ever play the game go out there and make a lot of Australia were 132 for four and to get recognised from him people happy if you stand up.” in their second innings, a lead of is a massive honour,” Lyon told Lyon remained confident 175 runs at stumps on day three. reporters. that Australia would snap a run The 31-year-old conjured Lyon also moved past South of six Tests without victory. menacing bounce off the Africa great Allan Donald and “I would rather be in Aus- expansive rough patches to clean into 25th place on the all-time tralia’s change rooms than up India’s tail and ensure Aus- test wicket-takers list with 331. India’s,” he said. “We know we tralia snared a crucial 43-run “It’s a bit surreal. Those mile- have the bowlers that can defend first-innings lead. stones haven’t really sunk in,” (the total).”

Latham ton puts Australia cricket chief open to four-day Tests in charge of first Sri Lanka Test AFP He pointed out that the PERTH average duration of a Test AFP meticulously crafted his seventh come. conditions as long as we can, match “is a shade over four WELLINGTON Test century from 219 balls and Coach Gary Stead New then we’ll see where we get to Australia’s new cricket chief days”. never looked rattled at the Zealand would look to turn the tomorrow afternoon and maybe says he is open to the idea of “We know there’s been Opener Tom Latham’s unbeaten crease. He combined with Wil- screws on day three. have a wee bowl at them. trialling four-day Test timeless Tests over the years, century put New Zealand in liamson for a 162-run part- “Hopefully we can bat for a “There’s a lot of game to be matches to boost waning we know there were even charge of the first Test against nership, laying the foundation big chunk of tomorrow and we’ll played before then.” popularity of the red ball three-day Tests. So Test Sri Lanka in Wellington yes- for a huge total from a line-up just bat once in the game, that’s Despite failing to reach triple game. cricket hasn’t been five days terday, as the Black Caps raced that has eight wickets in hand the plan,” he said. “We’ll try and figures, Williamson still has a The International Cricket in duration forever,” he said. past the tourists’ first-innings and has plenty of batting to make the most of these remarkable record against Sri Council approved the exper- “And I think the concept total and looked to build an Lanka, with three cen- imental concept last year in of four days going forward is imposing lead. SCOREBOARD turies in seven Tests a bid to ensure the future via- something we need to be Latham was 121 not out against them. That bility of Tests in the face of an open to, without jumping to at stumps on day two with Sri Lanka (I innings) includes an unbeaten explosion in the fast-paced conclusions.” New Zealand cruising at M Gunathilaka lbw Southee ...... 1 242 at Wellington’s Twenty20 format. Former captain 311 for two in reply to Sri F Karunaratne c Watling b Wagner ...... 79 Basin Reserve in 2015. South Africa played Zim- Michael Vaughan has been a D de Silva c Watling b Southee ...... 1 Lanka’s modest 282. Sri Lanka will be babwe in the inaugural four- long-time advocate of tri- K Mendis c Patel b Southee ...... 2 It was a frustrating day A Mathews c Watling b Southee ...... 83 hoping for a dramatic day Test last December in alling shorter matches to try for Sri Lanka’s bowlers on D Chandimal c Patel b Southee ...... 6 New Zealand collapse Port Elizabeth, winning inside and rejuvenate Test cricket. a Basin Reserve pitch that N Dickwella not out ...... 80 on day three to salvage two. A minimum 98 overs had “Test match cricket has transformed into a batters’ D Perera c Watling b de Grandhomme ...... 16 any hopes of a win. to be bowled each day, as been on the decline for many paradise after wreaking S Lakmal c Nicholls b Wagner ...... 3 Earlier, they added opposed to the regulation 90 years, that’s been a havoc during the tourists’ K Rajitha c Watling b Boult ...... 2 just seven to their over- in a five-day game. worldwide problem, although innings on day one. L Kumara c de Grandhomme b Southee ...... 0 night total before Tim Another match is not particularly in the UK, but Black Caps skipper Extras (LB7, NB2) ...... 9 Southee coaxed an scheduled for July next year give it a try and see how it Kane Williamson narrowly Total (all out) ...... 282 inside edge off Kumara when England take on Ireland goes,” he told reporters Fall of wickets: 1-5, 2-7, 3-9, 4-142, 5-167, missed out on his own 6-187, 7-223, 8-240, 9-275, 10-282 to claim a six-wicket at Lords. earlier this year. century, falling for 91, and Bowling: Boult 27-6-83-1, Southee 27-7-68-8, innings haul. “There’s a bit to be said “People said day-night all New Zealand’s batsmen de Grandhomme 13-2-35-1 (nb1), Wagner 20- Kumara’s for it,” Cricket Australia chief Tests would be ridiculous, got good starts, with Jeet 2-75-2 (nb1), Patel 3-0-14-0 departure for a duck executive Kevin Roberts told that they would finish in two Raval making 43 and Ross New Zealand (I innings) left Dickwella stranded commercial sports radio days, but they’ve been a great Taylor not out on 50. J Raval c Dickwella b Kumara ...... 43 on 80 not out after he station SEN late Saturday. “It’s spectacle and worked in the While the Sri Lanka T Latham (batting)...... 121 led a rearguard action certainly something we need right parts of the world.” K Williamson c Rajitha b de Silva ...... 91 attack worked hard, they New Zealand’s Tom for Sri Lanka. to be open minded to down Australia have been at the could not build pressure R Taylor (batting) ...... 50 Angelo Mathews the track.” forefront of playing Test Latham celebrates 100 Extras (LB4, NB1, W1) ...... 6 and the two New Zealand runs during day two of Total (2 wkts) ...... 311 and Dimuth Karu- Roberts assumed the matches under lights, hailing wickets that fell were the the first Test against Fall of wickets: 1-59, 2-221 naratne were the only reins at CA in October from them as a great success. result of rash shots from Sri Lanka at the Basin Bowling: Lakmal 18-2-60-0, Rajitha 21-5-78- other batsmen to offer James Sutherland, who stood They hosted the first ever, Raval and Williamson. Reserve in Wellington 0 (1w, 1nb), Mathews 4-3-1-0, Perera 13-0-59- any meaningful down after 17 years in the against New Zealand in 2015, That was not an issue yesterday. 0, Kumara 20-1-79-1, de Silva 8-0-30-1 resistance, notching 83 wake of the ball-tampering and have won all four they for Latham, who and 79 respectively. scandal in South Africa. have played. BD coach cautious ahead of Indian teenager Windies T20 showdown takes perfect 10

AFP AFP and it’s going to be a lot tougher than SYLHET the other two series because this is the format West Indies excel at.” Bangladesh coach Steve Rhodes yes- Bangladesh suffered an injury Indian teenage fast bowler Rex Singh wrote his name terday said was reluctant to consider scare before the series even got in the record books by becoming one of a select band his men favourites for the Twenty20 underway, with skipper Shakib Al of bowlers to take all 10 wickets in an innings. series against West Indies, despite a Hasan struck by a ball on his toe during The 18-year-old Singh, playing for the north streak of hot form against the Car- yesterday’s training session. eastern state of Manipur, unleashed a devastating ibbean visitors. Rhodes confirmed Shakib was spell of left-arm pace and swing bowling to return The three-match T20 contest gets unharmed and should lead Bangladesh the remarkable figures of 10-11 in 9.5 overs. Singh, underway today with Bangladesh into Monday’s match. who made his domestic debut in the Ranji Trophy riding high after beating the West “He is fine... He is smiling and this season, took a match haul of 15 wickets in the Indies in the preceding Test and happy,” said Rhodes. “He is icing his under-19 Cooch Behar Trophy four-day match played one-day international series. foot at the moment. I’d be very sur- in the north eastern Indian state of Arunachal The last time the two sides faced prised if he wakes up tomorrow and Pradesh. off in a T20 series was in the USA in there’s any issue, to be perfectly Singh’s feat helped skittle out Arunachal Pradesh July, when Bangladesh won 2-1. But honest,” he said. for 36 runs in their second innings as Manipur won Rhodes urged his men against hubris, West Indies Twenty20 captain comfortably. He splattered the stumps of five batsmen Australia’s warning they would be coming up Carlos Brathwaite said the series was who were out bowled, trapped two leg before and Mitchell Starc against a better-ranked side in the a perfect opportunity to give their fans had three caught. Social media was abuzz at the inspects his boot opener in Sylhet. something to celebrate before weekend over the youngster’s feat with the video of while bowling “We played well in the one-dayers Christmas after losing the Tests and his amazing spell going viral as news of his exploits against India in and we should take a lot of confidence ODIs. earlier in the week spread. “This Manipur boy claimed Perth yesterday. from that. We played well in the Test “The people back home deserve a 10 wickets with his smooth action and beautiful Starc, one of the series, and that was fantastic,” Rhodes Christmas gift. We hope to close out inswingers,” the Board of Control for Cricket in India world’s premier told reporters. “But we are asking for the year with a win,” he said. “We still (BCCI) tweeted. fast bowlers, is more. We want the players to beat the think T20 is our premier format. We Singh became the second player in the current appearing in his West Indies in Twenty20. They’re obviously haven’t had the results in the season to accomplish the feat after Sidak Singh, Puduch- 47th Test in the ranked above us. They are world recent past to be proud of. But here’s erry’s left-arm spinner, took all the 10 wickets against on-going match champions. a chance to turn things around and end Manipur in the U23 CK Nayudu Trophy. Only two against India. He “We surprised them in Florida and 2018 in a good way.” The West Indies bowlers have taken all 10 wickets in a Test innings. has picked up surprised ourselves as well. But the will wrap up their tour of Bangladesh India’s Anil Kumble took 10-74 in 1999 against Pakistan 193 wickets to plan is to go out there and win the with the final T20 matches of the series and Jim Laker of England who took 10-53 in 1956. date. series. We desperately want to do it in Dhaka on December 20 and 22. 10 SPORT MONDAY 17 DECEMBER 2018

Saeed Al Sulaiti (right), Abdullah Al Qubaisi (centre) and Mishal Al Naimi in action during the second round of Qatar Superstock 600 held this weekend at Losail International Circuit. Al Sulaiti, Jassim win again at Losail Circuit

THE PENINSULA DOHA

Saeed Al Sulaiti and Jassim Al Thani repeated victories again in the second round of Qatar Superstock 600 held this weekend at Losail International Circuit. In the first race of the round, the poleman of the weekend, Al Sulaiti, managed to take the lead from the start until the checkered flag. Al Sulaiti clocked a total time of 23:13.147 to complete the 12 laps. Abdulla Al Qubaisi finished second and Mishal Al Naimi came third. Al Qubaisi, who started in second place at the grid, stayed The podium winners of the Qatar Superstock 600 Race 2, Saeed Al Sulaiti (winner, centre), second placed Mishal Al Naimi and Abdulla Al Qubaisi pose for a photograph in this position during the first during the presentation ceremony held at the Losail International Circuit. RIGHT: The podium winners of the QSTK Trophy race 1 and 2, Qatari riders Jassim Al Thani, two laps but Al Naimi overtook Hassan Al Mansoori and Kuwait’s Mohammad Alzaidan celebrate with their trophies. him and was in the second place for five laps. In the last part of the race, Al Qubaisi gained again QSTK RACE 1 “Great races, I pushed hard the second position and kept it 1: Saeed Al Sulaiti (QAT) to go to the first place but I 2: Abdulla Al Qubaisi (QAT) Young racing talent on the until the end. couldn’t. Yesterday I had a big Nasser Al Malki and Balint 3: Misal Al Naimi (QAT) crash during the Superpole 2 Kovacs finished fourth and fifth 4: Nasser Al Malki (QAT) and I have pain in my hand, so respectively. 5: Balint Kovacs (HUN) it was a bit difficult but we are rise: LCSC Vice-President In the QSTK Trophy cat- improving each round and egory, the win was again for QSTK TROPHY - RACE 1 hopefully next round will be THE PENINSULA Jassim Al Thani who finished 1: Jassim Al Thani (QAT) better,” Al Zaidan said. DOHA sixth overall. Kuwaiti 2: Mohammad Alzaidan (KWT) Hassan Al Mansoori was Mohammad Al Zaidan and 3: Hassan Al Mansoori (QAT) delighted with his first double Young racing talent in Qatar is Hassan Al Mansoori completed podium in a weekend. rising through the ranks at Improvement from the QSTK Trophy podium. QSTK RACE 2 “I am very happy with today events held at Losail Interna- In the second race of the 1: Saeed Al Sulaiti (QAT) results as it is the first time I am tional Circuit (LIC), a top the riders shows that day, Al Sulaiti won again but this 2: Misal Al Naimi (QAT) in the podium in both races. I motoring official said. they are rising in the time, the second position was 3: Abdulla Al Qubaisi (QAT) have done my personal lap time Khalid Al Remaihi (pic- technical sense and for Al Naimi and Al Qubaisi 4: Balint Kovacs (HUN) record and managed to tured), Vice-President of the that’s important for came third. 5: Nasser Al Malki (QAT) overtake Nawaf Al Shuaibi in Losail Circuit Sports Club For QSTK Trophy, the the last corner of last race,” Al (LCSC) and General Manager them and good to winners in the second race were QSTK TROPHY - RACE 2 Mansoori said. of LIC, said young riders fea- see: Al Remaihi exactly the same as the first one, 1: Jassim Al Thani (QAT) In the standings, Al Sulaiti turing in the Qatar 600 Series Al Thani stepped on top of the 2: Mohammad Alzaidan (KWT) is leading the championship Superstock Championship is podium with Mohammad Al 3: Hassan Al Mansoori (QAT) with 100 points and Al Naimi is a perfect platform to nurture tournament witnessed great Zaidan second and Hassan Al second with 72. Al Qubaisi is in riders for the future. competition and high technical Mansoori in third place. the third place with 69 points Al Remaihi said young levels from the riders. Al Sulaiti was very happy tried to be smooth with the gear and Hungarian rider Kovacs is Qatari rider Hassan Mansoori “Improvement from the with his double win. and not do anything wrong,” Al fourth with 55. was the surprise pick of the riders shows that they are “In race one, Mishal was Sulaiti said. Al Thani is leading the QSTK second round of the QTSK rising in the technical sense very close to me and I tried to The winner in the Trophy Trophy standings with 100 where he managed to occupy arch-rivals in the fiercely and that’s important for them create a gap as I am not ready category, Al Thani, is improving points and Al Zaidan, with 80 the third place in both of the contested championship. and good to see,” Al Remaihi to fight with the last injuries I in each race and managed to do points stands in the second races. He said Mansoori is “We are also happy to see said. have, so I tried to push at the his personal lap time in this position. Al Mansoori is third showing good talent at a young riders from neighbouring He also said the champi- beginning and at the middle of round. with 59 points. age. countries flocking to our cham- onship is witnessing great the race I had a comfortable “This victory came after a Trophies were presented by The LCSC official said he pionship. We regularly host cooperation among all gap. In race 2, also I did the long and hard training and Abdulrahmam Al Mannai, Qatar was impressed to see the Kuwaiti riders and one of the stakeholders including the same strategy and I overtook today I did my personal best lap Motor and Motorcycle Feder- improvement in Abdullah Al big names is Mohammed Al riders, technical staff, the Mishal at the beginning of the time 2:07.6 which is really good ation (QMMF) President, and Qubaisi’s performances over Zaidan,” Al Remaihi said after sponsors and the volunteers second lap in the main straight and really looking forward next Khalid Al Remaihi, Losail Circuit the last two years. round two of the QTSK held at the LIC. and then I did my best lap time round to push even harder,” Al Sports Club (LCSC) Vice Pres- Al Remaihi said the young- over the weekend at LIC. The LCSC official praised and create a gap. Unfortu- Thani commented. ident and General Manager. sters are also learning by Qatar’s Jassim Al Thani Qatar Motor and Motorcycle nately, in the last four laps, I Kuwaiti rider Mohammad The third round of Qatar competing against experi- dominated the races of the Federation (QMMF) under the burnt the clutch and it was Al Zaidan had a crash yesterday Superstock Championship will enced riders like Saeed Al second round. chairmanship of Abdulrahman really difficult to go back in during the Superpole 2 but fin- be held on January 25 and 26, Sulaiti and Mashel Al Naimi Al Remaihi said that the Al Mannai for their support of gears but the gap was safe so I ished second in both races. 2019. who also happen to be second round of the the event. MONDAY 17 DECEMBER 2018 SPORT 11 Alvarez overwhelms Fielding for super-middleweight title

AFP NEW YORK

Mexican superstar Saul “Canelo” Alvarez brutally overpowered I felt good and strong. England’s Rocky Fielding with a I want the best fights, dominant display on his New and to make sure my York City debut on Saturday to become a three-weight world name is held up high: champion. Alvarez Alvarez, who is the reigning World Boxing Council and World Boxing Association middle- opponent’s supreme speed and weight world champion fol- punch power. lowing his thrilling victory over Fighting in the famed New Gennady Golovkin in September, York City arena for the first time had little trouble in moving up in front of a vocal pro-Mexican PV Sindhu of India poses with her trophy after the women’s in weight class and defeating crowd, Alvarez didn’t singles final match at the 2018 BWF World Tour Finals Fielding, who held a second tier disappoint. badminton competition in , yesterday. version of the WBA’s super-mid- The 28-year-old wasted no dleweight title. time in making his mark and Alvarez sent Fielding to the when Fielding fell to his knees canvas in the very first round following a left to the body in the Gold at last for with a crunching body shot and first there only looked like being remained in complete control. one winner. He delivered a similar punch in Fielding enjoyed some ‘proud’ Sindhu; the second which was also too success but wasn’t using his much for the Englishman to take height to his advantage. Alvarez before the fight was stopped soaked everything up before towards the end of the third fol- sending his opponent down once Shi stuns Momota lowing two further more in the second with another knock-downs. crunching blow to the ribs. AFP “People have been “I thought he would use his Towards the end of the third, SHANGHAI asking me the same distance but luckily he didn’t,” Fielding was back on his knees question, I think the Alvarez said in the ring after and when he returned there An emotional PV Sindhu question won’t come again becoming the ninth Mexican once again soon after there was finally got her hands on -- asking why I always lose fighter to be a champion in three no way back as crowd of 20,112 gold at badminton’s season- in the final. different weight divisions. roared its approval. ending World Tour Finals “It was good that people “He came to attack and I did The Mexican, competing in yesterday while in the were asking me about my thing. The plan was to hit the his second fight since completing men’s decider ’s Shi losing so many finals body. That was the result.” a six-month ban for testing pos- Yuqi exacted stunning because I had to ask myself It was, ultimately, a total itive for a banned substance in revenge over number one why I was losing. mismatch. Fielding just didn’t Canelo Alvarez celebrates his win against Rocky Fielding in their March, has vowed to drop back . “Finally I got the have the power to compete, and WBA super-middleweight title fight at Madison Square Garden in down to middleweight next year, The 23-year-old Indian answer.” when he went down twice in the New York City on Saturday. which could see a potential third Sindhu has suffered a series The men’s final, a third, referee Ricky Gonzalez fight with Golovkin become an of near-misses in recent mouthwatering showdown correctly stopped the fight with This was Alvarez’s first bout want the best fights, and to make exciting reality. “I felt that it (his years, winning silver at the between the two top- 22 seconds left of the round. at super-middleweight. He sure my name is held up high,” rivalry with Golovkin) ended on 2016 Rio Olympics, and ranked players in the world, It was a brave effort from the fought Julio Chavez junior at a Alvarez said. Fielding, coming September 15 and I showed that again at the Asian Games was a re-run of the world 31-year-old from Liverpool, who 164-pound catch-weight in a into the bout with just one defeat I was best,” Alvarez said. and Commonwealth Games championship decider in deserves great credit for non-title match-up in 2017, and from 28, had won his previous “But they were two great this year. August. accepting the task of entering the although he is set to move back six fights, including a memorable fights that’s no secret, and if the The world number six, On that occasion, the ring against the brilliant flame- down to 160 pounds for his next victory over ’s Tyron people want it, we can make it.” renowned for her never- 22-year-old Shi -- the new haired Mexican, who extended fight in 2019, his performance Zeuge in July which brought him On the undercard, Ireland’s say-die attitude, has also star of Chinese men’s bad- his record to 51-1-2 with 35 in front of a sold-out Madison world title glory. Katie Taylor, the IBF and WBA twice lost in the final of the minton -- was well beaten knockouts in his first appearance Square Garden crowd was evi- Yet the proud and rangy Liv- lightweight champion, moved World Championships and by Momota. since signing a record-breaking dence of his ability to perform erpudlian, who possessed a five- to 12-0 after winning on points was runner-up in last year’s But roared on by the 11-fight, $365m contract with whatever the weight class. inch height and reach advantage, against Finland’s Eva Wahlstrom season finale. crowd in Guangzhou, Shi sports streaming service DAZN. “I felt good and strong. I was unable to cope with his who suffered her first defeat. But she put all that got revenge in emphatic heartbreak behind her in fashion, beating the tour- the Chinese city of nament favourite 21-12, Guangzhou, beating the 21-11 in a surprisingly one- fifth-ranked Nozomi sided encounter for the Golf: Lipsky survives scare to claim title Okuhara of 21-19, biggest win of his young 21-17 in the women’s final career. REUTERS success since he claimed the at the trophy presentation. leader Scott Jamieson (72) but in just over an hour. Significantly, it was the MALELANE Omega European Masters in “It’s a very difficult course surged ahead as he birdied Sindhu, who was first time Shi has beaten 2014, finishing two shots ahead but I toughed it out. This is my three of his first five holes, always in control of the Momota, 24, the out- American David Lipsky of ’s David Drysdale first time here so I hadn’t seen while his playing partner had match, sealed the champi- standing player this year. survived a double-bogey on his (67), who carded the joint the course before.” dropped two shots by the end onship with a forehand “I’m thrilled as I’d never third last hole to hang on for a lowest score of the round but He admitted the double- of the fifth. smash, before collapsing to beaten Momota and to do it two-shot victory at the is still seeking a first win on bogey on 16 had left him with The American led by five the court floor on her hands on this stage is very special,” European Tour’s Alfred Dunhill tour after three runner-up some jitters. “It was a little strokes at one stage, but a run and knees, physically and said Shi, who has overtaken Championship after shooting a finishes. stressful for me, I wish I hadn’t of birdies from home golfer emotionally exhausted. Olympic champions Chen final round 68 at Leopard Creek “I didn’t make too many done that! But I finished strong Zander Lombard (69) and “I’m really proud, the Long and to Country Club yesterday. mistakes, my putting and and that is all that matters.” Drysdale cut his lead to one year has ended on a beau- become China’s leading Lipsky, 30, completed a wedge play was probably the Lipsky started his final before a birdie on the last made tiful note,” said Sindhu. male player. second win on tour and a first best it’s ever been,” Lipsky said round a shot behind overnight the win more comfortable.

Sevilla put pressure on Barca with Girona win Tottenham’s

REUTERS destined for the top corner but Sevilla Dier ruled out LONDON goalkeeper Tomas Vaclik managed to tip it away. until 2019 Sevilla overcame a dangerous Girona Sevilla are second in the standings, side to win 2-0 at home in an enter- locked on 31 points with leaders Barca, REUTERS taining game yesterday, climbing up who visit Levante later on Sunday as LONDON to second place in La Liga to breathe well as third-placed Atletico Madrid, down the necks of leaders Barcelona. who beat Real Valladolid 3-2 on Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Eric Dier Girona had made an impressive Saturday. will miss their festive fixtures after under- start against their former coach Pablo Meanwhile, Real midfielder Marcos going surgery to remove his appendix, the Machin’s side and La Liga top scorer Llorente said he and his team-mates Premier League club said yesterday. Cristhian Stuani spurned a great chance were satisfied with their recent per- Dier, who was an unused substitute in to give them the lead. formances, while adding that there was Sevilla climb to Tuesday’s Champions League clash against Yet it was the home side who even- room for improvement. He urged fans second place in Barcelona, missed Spurs’ 1-0 league victory tually broke the deadlock early in the to show their support rather than La Liga to breathe over Burnley on Saturday, with what was second half. getting on the players’ backs. down the necks of initially described as a “virus” by manager Argentine playmaker Ever Banega “Of course we can improve but Mauricio Pochettino. scored from the penalty spot in the 55th inside the dressing room we’re happy,” leaders Barcelona. “The England international midfielder minute, after Andre Silva had been he said. was diagnosed with appendicitis after con- brought down, and Banega was also at “I don’t agree with booing, it makes tacting our medical staff due to acute the heart of a splendid team move from us weaker, I’d prefer them to cheer us Abdominal pain,” Spurs said in a statement. which Pablo Sarabia stretched Sevilla’s on. This is Real Madrid, people are used “He received immediate treatment to lead 10 minutes later. to us winning all the time, and when assess and then remove the appendix. He Girona continued to threaten, and things don’t go well they put us under will now undergo a period of recovery almost got a consolation goal in pressure, that can sometimes help but before commencing rehabilitation and it Sevilla’s Portuguese forward Andre Silva reacts during a La Liga match against stoppage time when midfielder Borja it’d be better if they cheered us is expected he will return to training with Girona at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium in Sevilla, yesterday. Garcia whipped in a shot that looked instead.” the squad in January.” MONDAY 17 DECEMBER 2018 SPORT 07

The changes that I have seen over Star Wesley Sneijder one year, it’s amazing. The roads, the says Qatar will offer huge FOOTBALL CRICKET parks that they are building, they are advantage to fans who will La Liga: Alaves vs 2nd Test, Australia vs really making Qatar better and ready visit the country for the Athletic Bilbao India, 4th day in Perth for the 2022 World Cup. ACTION 2022 FIFA World Cup. TODAY’S QU wins 6th successive University League title

THE PENINSULA and hope to see more colleges DOHA and universities be part of the University League.” For the sixth consecutive time, “The University League is an Qatar University (QU) won the example of QFA’s commitment University League 2018-19 title to nurturing a football culture after beating Carnegie Mellon among the youth, and providing University in Qatar (CMU-Q) 6-1 a platform for the youth to be in the final at Qatar Foundation’s able to play organised football,” (QF’s) Recreation Center Pitch 1 he added. this weekend. The sixth University League Additionally, College of the was kicked off on October 24 North Atlantic – Qatar (CNA-Q) and brought together ten colleges beat Qatar Aeronautical College and universities from across (QAC) in the league’s third-place Qatar to compete in the playoff which took place earlier competition. in the night, with a final score of The University League is a 6-3. joint collaboration between the The four teams qualified to QFA and QF which started in the semi-finals stage last week 2013 and supports both organi- after securing first and second sations’ desire to encourage place in the group stage matches. young people to play more In Group A, CMU-Q secured first organised football and lead a place and QAC secured the more active lifestyle. second place after they obtained QU has won the most titles 10 and 9 points respectively. out of all the teams since the As for Group B, Qatar Uni- Qatar University’s players and officials celebrate with the trophy after winning the final. league’s launch in 2013, having versity and CNA- Q were level won six consecutive titles. on points but Qatar University Sub-Leagues Committee, QFA, and third place teams, along with with silver and bronze medals. row, as well as Carnegie Mellon The league is sponsored by secured the first place through Yousef Al Suqairi, member of the the Qatar Football Association Hilal Al Mohannadi, University in Qatar and College the Supreme Committee for their goal difference. Sub-Leagues Committee, QFA; (QFA) referees. Chairman of the Sub-Leagues of the North Atlantic – Qatar for Delivery & Legacy as the official The ceremony was attended and Fahad Al Darwish, Recre- QU received a cash prize of Committee at QFA, commented: earning the second and third strategic partner, Nike as the by Hilal Al Mohannadi, Chairman ation Service Supervisor at Qatar QR 20,000 and gold medals, “I would like to congratulate place team honours respectively. official supplier, Al Kass Sports of the Sub-Leagues Committee, Foundation. while CMU-Q and CNA-Q Qatar University for winning the We look forward to launching Channels as the official broad- QFA; Ibrahim Shaheen Al Sulaiti, An award ceremony was received QR15,000 and title of the 2018-19 University the next edition of the University caster and Qatar National Bank Vice Chairman of the held to honor the first, second, QR10,000 respectively along League for the sixth time in a League with Qatar Foundation as the exclusive financial partner. James, Ball lift Los Angeles Kessel fires winner for Lakers; Pistons stop Celtics Penguins against Kings AP hat trick and lift Florida past Toronto. PITTSBURGH Barkov slipped the puck past AFP goalie Frederik Andersen from the Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James reacts after a play during the second LOS ANGELES Phil Kessel scored a power-play goal right side of the crease. half against the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte on Saturday. at 3:59 of overtime to give the Pitts- Jonathan Huberdeau had a goal Lonzo Ball joined LeBron burgh Penguins a 4-3 victory over and an assist, and Roberto Luongo James in elite territory on the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday made 29 saves to help the Panthers Saturday as their twin triple- night. snap a four-game skid. M doubles lifted the Los Angeles Evgeni Malkin pushed a loose itchell Marner scored twice for Lakers to a 128-100 NBA puck from the slot to Kessel, and he Toronto, John Tavares added his victory over the Hornets in finished near the side of the net for team-high 20th goal and Andersen Charlotte. the Penguins’ fifth victory in seven stopped 28 shots. The Maple Leafs James, a four-time NBA games. have lost four of their past five, Most Valuable Player, scored Tanner Pearson scored against Flames 2, Wild 1 24 points with 11 assists and his former team, and Matt Cullen and Matthew Tkachuk scored the go- 12 rebounds while Ball, the Bryan Rust also had goals for the Pen- ahead goal midway through the third second overall selection in the guins. Matt Murray made 38 saves period for Calgary, and David Rittich 2017 draft, added 16 points, for his first victory since Oct. 25 at made 34 saves against Minnesota. 10 assists and 10 rebounds. Calgary. Mark Giordano scored short- It was the first time two Murray stopped Tyler Toffoli’s handed in the first period for the NBA teammates posted triple- breakaway in the first 30 seconds of Pacific Division-leading Flames. They doubles in the same game overtime. The goalie also denied a are 11-2-1 in their last 14 games, with since Jason Kidd and Vince quality overtime chance from Jake 10 wins in regulation, and lead the Carter did it for the Nets in Muzzin in the slot. NHL with 50 third-period goals. 2007. Capitals 4, Sabres 3 Jordan Greenway scored for the Wild. James and Ball became Alex Ovechkin scored his NHL- Ducks 2, Blue Jackets 1 the only Lakers teammates to leading 29th goal of the season to Daniel Sprong scored 1:19 into do it besides Magic Johnson extend his points streak to a career- overtime to lift Anaheim past and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in best 14 games and had the shootout Columbus. 1982. winner for Washington. Adam Henrique won a face off in “We just tried to do a little Ovechkin has 17 goals and six the Ducks offensive zone, and Sprong bit of everything to help our points during his points streak and beat Sergei Bobrovsky with his team win,” James said. has scored in six in a row. The Stanley second goal of the night. “Try to put the ball in the Cup champion Capitals have won five John Gibson stopped 36 shots for hole, rebound so we could in a row. Anaheim. The Ducks have won four start the break and then get Panthers 4, Maple Leafs 3 straight and eight of nine. our guys the ball. Aleksander Barkov scored at 3:24 Markus Nutivaara scored for “That’s the most NBA RESULTS points, pulled down eight post a third straight victory. of overtime to complete his first NHL Columbus. important to both of us,” rebounds and handed out six James Harden notched a James added, “getting our Oklahoma City 110, LA Clippers 104 assists for the Pistons, who led triple-double of 32 points, 10 guys involved. It’s a great San Antonio 93, Chicago 98 by as many as 16 points in the assists and 12 rebounds. feeling when you’re able to Phoenix 107, Minnesota 99 fourth quarter but saw Boston Coming off his monster get the ball to a teammate and Memphis 97, Houston 105 cut the deficit to 111-104 with 50-point triple-double see them make a shot.” Charlotte 100, LA Lakers 128 38 seconds left with the help against the Lakers it marked

Both James and Ball had Detroit 113, Boston 104 of a spate of turnovers. the seventh time in Harden’s completed their triple- Kyrie Irving led the Celtics career that he has achieved Orlando 96, Utah 89 doubles with plenty of with 26 points and Marcus the feat in consecutive games. margin. After helping the Smart added 21. Clint Capela added 26 Lakers out-score the Hornets strong... got it done.” In Memphis, the Houston points and 10 rebounds for 40-17 in the third quarter In Detroit, the Pistons Rockets jumped to an early the Rockets, who improved James sat out all of the fourth ended the Boston Celtics’ lead but had to fight off the to 14-14 for the season. quarter and Ball played just league-leading eight-game Grizzlies down the stretch for The Chicago Bulls erased five minutes of the final winning streak -- and their a 105-97 victory. a 21-point first-quarter deficit period. own six-game skid -- with a Houston led 61-40 at to beat the Spurs in San Ball added five steals as 113-104 victory. halftime and were still up by Antonio 98-93. Kris Dunn the Lakers came back with a Reggie Bullock, returning 14 heading into the fourth scored 24 points and Lauri vengeance from a 126-111 loss from a five-game injury quarter, but saw their lead Markkanen added 23 for the to the Houston Rockets on absence, provided a spark for sliced to six points with 3:04 Bulls, who won for the second Thursday. the Pistons. His 15 points to play. time in seven games under “It was a good win,” Ball included a three-pointer with Memphis would get no new coach Jim Boylen, who Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Phil Kessel (left) scores the game winning said. “We didn’t want to lose 3:37 to play. closer as Houston came up replaced Fred Hoiberg on goal against Los Angeles Kings goaltender Jonathan Quick on Saturday. two in a row. We came out Blake Griffin scored 27 with the stops they needed to December 3.