QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune Mertens shoks QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune Halep in epic to set up clash with Sabalenka in Madrid page 14 WEDNESday, MAY 5, 2021 Selby wins fourth Al Khor beat Al Shahania 3-1 in play-off world snooker title

Every time you get to a world final you always try your hardest - it’s such a tough tournament to get there and you never know whether it’s going to be your last. My aim is to get back to world number one. You still have goals in your career. I’m going in the right direction. Mark Selby after his 20th Al Khor players celebrate their 2-0 win over Al Shahania in the play-off match at the Qatar Sports Club major ranking title. Stadium on Tuesday. The win means Al Khor will now play get to play in the 2021-22 season QNB Stars League. Giannis Feffatzidis, Yuki Kobayashi and Saeed Brahimi scored the goals for Al Khor while Abdelaziz Al Yahri pulled one back for Al Shahania. going to be your last. “My aim is to get back to world number one. You still have goals in your career. I’m Jassim Bin Heartbreaking to see India going in the right direction.” With the coach of both Hamad Stadium suffering, says Pietersen players Henry an intrigued spectator, Selby had earlier to host African ANI The Indian Premier maintained his control of the Ahmedabad League Governing Council match in Monday afternoon’s Super Cup final (IPL GC) and Board of Con- session. With the second Covid-19 trol for Cricket in India (BCCI) The concluding sessions QNA wave rampant across the coun- on Tuesday, in an emergency of the Championship marked Cairo try, former England captain meeting unanimously decided Mark Selby of England with the World Championship snooker trophy at the Crucible Theatre in London on a notable sporting milestone Kevin Pietersen on Tuesday to postpone IPL 2021 season, Tuesday. Selby scored an 18-15 victory over Shaun Murphy in the final. with a capacity crowd return- The Confederation of Af- said it is heartbreaking for him with immediate effect. ing to a major UK sporting rican Football (CAF) an- to see India suffer like this. The BCCI also said that it event for the first time since nounced that Jassim Bin “India – it’s heartbreak- will do everything in its pow- March 2020. Hamad Stadium, Al Sadd ing to see a country I love so ers to arrange for the secure And as well as adding a Club will host the final match much suffering! You WILL and safe passage of all the par- semblance of normality, the of the African Super Cup be- get through this! You WILL ticipants in IPL 2021. 980 fans brought a return of tween Al Ahly of Egypt and be stronger coming out of The BCCI also thanked all the Crucible roar and added the Moroccan RS Berkane, this! Your kindness & gen- the healthcare workers, state to the nervous tension, par- scheduled for May 28. erosity NEVER goes unno- associations, players, support ticularly when Murphy threat- CAF decided to hold the ticed even during this crisis,” staff, franchises, sponsors, part- ened an improbable comeback match at Jassim bin Hamad tweeted Pietersen. ners, and all the service provid- - turning thoughts towards a Stadium, where the two teams On Monday, Cricket Aus- ers who have tried their best to firstfinal-frame decider since will undergo a safety bubble tralia also said that it would organise IPL 2021 even in these Peter Ebdon’s 18-17 win over on May 25, with a coronavirus be donating USD 50,000 to extremely difficult times. Hendry in 2002 - with back- (COVID-19) swab conducted UNICEF’s India COVID-19 India registered 3,57,229 to-back centuries. 48 hours before the match. Crisis Appeal to aid the coun- new COVID-19 cases and With Selby on the verge Al Ahly are playing the try’s fight against Covid-19. 3,449 related deaths in the last of victory at 17-13, Murphy match as champions of the Af- Earlier, cricketers Pat Cum- 24 hours, informed the union clawed himself back to 17-15 rican Champions League, and mins and Brett Lee had also health ministry on Tuesday. with a superb show of under- RS Berkane as champions of donated to help India fight pressure potting, but a missed the CAF Confederation Cup. the pandemic. See also page 14  red down the left cushion when well placed ended his hopes of The final day of the World Snooker Championship saw a capacity crowd as part of a COVID-19 safety pilot adding to his 2005 title. scheme of the UK government, as fans made a full return to a sporting event for the first time in over a year. “Mark is super-granite, unfortunately for me,” Mur- Euro 2020: UEFA confirms increase in squad from 23 to 26 Agencies Having been perched at And while he is now likely phy said on BBC Two. London: European football’s governing body UEFA on Tuesday announced an increase in squad London the top of the world rankings to turn his attention to usurp- “I started well but he went lists from 23 players to 26 for Euro 2020 to “mitigate the risks of teams facing a shortage of avail- during the period in which he ing Trump, Selby’s 20th major into super-hard mode. He able players” as coronavirus continues to rage. The tournament, which was postponed last year due Mark Selby claimed his fourth claimed three world titles in ranking title also cements his broke me last night with that to the COVID-19 pandemic, is due to take place between June and July this year. “The UEFA Execu- World Championship title with four years, Selby’s dominance place among the greats in Tri- three-frame lead which was tive Committee today approved special rules for the UEFA EURO 2020 final tournament in order to an 18-15 victory over Shaun once looked unquestionable. ple Crown events - equalling a tough lead to give him in a guarantee the smooth running and continuity of the competition in light of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Murphy at a sold-out Crucible And while those days ap- Higgins’ tally of nine, placing match of this calibre. the governing body said in an official statement. “To mitigate the risks of teams facing a shortage Theatre, reports BBC.com. peared to have gone, his re- him behind only Davis, Hen- “Life has been difficult of available players for certain matches due to possible positive COVID-19 tests results and subse- Selby, who led 14-11 prior turn to form under Chris Hen- dry and O’Sullivan. for everybody over the last 12 quent quarantine measures ordered by competent authorities, it has been decided to exceptionally to the final session, is now ry, who also coaches Murphy, “To win it once against months but I want to say a increase the player list for all participating teams to 26 players,” it added. According to UEFA, 23 three Crucible crowns off and the quality of his all-round Ronnie O’Sullivan for the very deep and personal thank players shall remain the maximum number permitted on the match sheet for each individual match Stephen Hendry’s record of game suggests he is more than first time was a dream come you for every one of you who (in accordance with Law 3 of the IFAB Laws of the Game permitting a maximum of 12 substitutes seven. capable of continuing to win true - to win it four times is has bought a ticket over the to be named for A-national team matches), including three goalkeepers. UEFA also said new regula- Runs of 66, 68 and a su- snooker’s biggest prizes. something I could only have last 17 days. tions will now also allow goalkeepers to be replaced before each match during the tournament in perb 120 helped him break Now level with Scot- dreamed of,” Selby said on “Sport is nothing without case of physical incapacity even if one or two goalkeepers from the player list are still available. Murphy’s resistance in a high- land’s John Higgins on four, BBC Two. fans and we’ve been thrilled to Last month, UEFA allowed the use of up to five substitutions at UEFA Euro 2020 and at the 2021 quality encounter. only Hendry (seven), Ronnie “Every time you get to have everyone back and a full UEFA Nations League Finals. The body also made a decision regarding the admission of specta- Selby, 37, collects O’Sullivan, Steve Davis and a world final you always try house tonight. It’s been very tors to UEFA matches. It decided to lift the 30 percent capacity limit on stadiums, saying that the £500,000 in prize money and Ray Reardon (all six) have your hardest - it’s such a tough tough for me this year with the decision on the number of permitted spectators should fall under the exclusive responsibility of the moves up to second in the won more world titles than tournament to get there and travel restrictions but you’ve relevant competent local/national authorities. (ANI) world behind Judd Trump. Selby in the modern era. you never know whether it’s brought me back.” Lukaku hopes to use ‘killer mentality’ gained at Inter at Euro 2020

DPA their first piece of major sil- The ex-Chelsea striker’s 31 verware at the delayed Euro Romelu Lukaku has scored combined goals and assists in omelu Lukaku is hop- 2020 finals. 21 Serie A goals and Serie A this season is the most ing to fire Belgium to “Winning a club title al- provided a further 10 of any player, with Juventus Euro 2020 glory after lows you to gain experience assists this season for forward Cristiano Ronaldo gainingR a “killer mentality” and allows you to know how Inter, who were crowned next on the list with 30. with Scudetto winners Inter. to approach matches,” he told champions on Sunday for Despite enjoying one of The 27-year-old has scored La Tribune. “You get this killer the first time in 11 years. his most prolific seasons yet in 21 Serie A goals and provided mentality. front of goal, however, Lukaku a further 10 assists this season “That is something I’ve does not believe he is the best for Inter, who were crowned missed in my career. I’ve giv- ut) Courtois, Eden [Hazard], striker in the world. champions on Sunday for the en up too many times before. [Axel] Witsel and [Kevin] De “That is Karim Benzema, first time in 11 years. Then I said to myself ‘I’m Bruyne, can also win titles. without a doubt,” he said. It is just the second title tired, I’m 27, it’s time for a “That would be good for Benzema is averaging a won by the prolific striker change’. But the work doesn’t the team. It would bring a goal every 121.62 minutes in across his 12-year senior ca- stop here. good team spirit and we can all La Liga for title contenders reer after finishing first in the “Right now I’m happy be- Inter Milan’s Belgian forward move forward together.” Real Madrid this season, com- Belgian Pro League with An- cause we are champions, but Romelu Lukaku control the ball Lukaku is scoring from pared to Lukaku’s return of a derlecht in 2009-10. I’m already focused on the during the Italian Serie A match 23.6 per cent of his shots - goal every 127.29 minutes in Lukaku, who joined Inter Euros because it’s important against Crotone at the Ezio Scida making him the first Serie A Serie A. from Manchester United in to me. Stadium in Crotone on May 1. (AFP) player since 2004-05 to tally The Frenchman has 21 August 2019, has now set his “I really hope the other 20 goals and 10 assists in the league goals in total this cam- sights on inspiring Belgium to Belgium players, like (Thiba- same season. paign and a further eight assists. Sports Wednesday, May 5, 2021 13 Tuchel wants brave Chelsea to go for the

kill vs Real Madrid Portuguese head coach Jose Mourinho. DPA Berlin Mourinho to replace Thomas Tuchel insists Chel- sea will not sit back on their Fonseca as Roma away-goal advantage against Real Madrid as it is in the coach in summer club’s DNA to try to win every match. DPA mediately understood the Christian Pulisic scored Berlin full extent of their ambitions a crucial goal for Chelsea in for AS Roma. It is the same last week’s Champions League Jose Mourinho has been ambition and drive that has semi-final first leg before Ka- appointed Roma coach from always motivated me and rim Benzema levelled up the next season onwards in suc- together we want to build a tie at 1-1 through Madrid’s cession of Paulo Fonseca, the winning project over the up- only shot on target. Serie A club said on Tuesday. coming year.” The onus is on Madrid to Mourinho, 58, has won Pinto said: “When Jose score an away goal of their 25 major titles in his coach- became available, we im- own in Wednesday’s return ing career, highlighted by mediately jumped at the match at Stamford Bridge, but Champions League success chance to speak with one of Tuchel does not intend to set 2004 with Porto and the the greatest managers of all his side out to protect their 2010 treble with Inter Milan, time.” Roma’s last Serie A ti- narrow lead. the other Italian club he has tle was 2001 and the last Ital- “For me, the challenge is to coached. ian Cup 2008. forget the result in two-legged The Portuguese had to go They have had modest games and go on and start two weeks ago at Tottenham results recently, losing 6-2 anew at 0-0,” he said at Tues- Hotspur, and is now to turn in the Europa League semi- day’s pre-match news confer- the fortunes of Roma from final first leg at Manchester ence. 2021-22 onwards on a three- United last week; and after “We will prepare to win the year contract. four games without victory match, nothing else. I don’t “We are thrilled and ranked seventh in the Serie A know any other way to pre- delighted to welcome Jose with four games left. pare other than to encourage Mourinho into the AS Roma That meant the end for my team to go out and try to family,” Roma president Dan Fonseca who arrived in 2019 win it. Friedkin and vice-president from Shakhtar Donetsk on “If we are at our best then Ryan Friedkin said in a cluh a two-year contract with an it’s a no-brainer that we go for statement. option for another year until the win. Chelsea players during their English Premier League match against Fulham in London on May 1. (AFP) “A great champion who 2022. We want to win games, has won trophies at every “Paulo guided the team this club is about winning. side of Pulisic and Benzema’s level, Jose will provide tre- through many challenges, in- “This game and competi- goals. Marcelo, Ramos, Valverde in Madrid squad mendous leadership and cluding the Covid pandemic tion is about winning. We are But while Tuchel accepts experience to our ambitious and a change of ownership, in the semi-final second leg. his attacking players have to DPA day’s Champions League semi- at Anfield in the quarter-finals. project. and did so with selfless in- “The first result is not as be more clinical, he is happy to Berlin final second leg with the tie Zidane will also have op- “The appointment of tegrity and great character,” important as everybody thinks. persist with his current set-up. locked at 1-1, but Zidane is once tions at left-back, with Mendy Jose is a huge step in build- Friedkin said in a statement. There is zero importance for “I believe that Timo abso- Coach Zinedine Zidane has again able to count upon many recovering from a calf strain ing a long-term and consist- Fonseca said: “Over these me in the preparation of this lutely wants to score more, but the deepest squad that has been of them. While Raphael Varane’s suffered in mid-April, while ent winning culture through- last two years we have expe- match. we have to understand some- available to him for some time absence with an abductor injury Marcelo has been able to travel. out the club.” Mourinho, rienced a number of highs “It’s not changed anything times strikers miss chances. as Real Madrid travel to face sustained against Osasuna at The Brazilian was seeming- who has also coached Real and lows, but I have always about how we’ve prepared, This is part of the game,” he Chelsea with Marcelo, Sergio the weekend is a blow, Ramos is ly set to miss out entirely after Madrid, Manchester United given my all for this club and zero influence. said. Ramos, Federico Valverde and available again for the first time he was called up to monitor a and Chelsea, said: “Thank this city - a city that has al- We will encourage them, “Everybody needs to step Ferland Mendy all available. since the end of March. local election. But, according to you to the Friedkin family ways been so welcoming.” we will demand from them up to take responsibility for Madrid have often had a sig- Whether he comes straight Spanish outlet La Sexta, an el- for choosing me to lead this Fonseca won the Ukrain- and we will be strong tomor- scoring. This will come may- nificantly depleted squad over back into the starting XI given derly woman - who was appar- great club and to be part of ian league and cup dou- row as a group.” Tuchel was be with more time and some the past couple of months, with his lack of match action is anoth- ently a “second substitute” for their vision. ble in all three seasons at left frustrated by Chelsea’s self-confidence. “I am pretty a host of key players ruled out er matter, though Eder Militao the election role - volunteered “After meetings with Shakhtar and other clubs he finishing in the first leg, with relaxed about it and trust my for extended periods. and Nacho have looked a solid to take Marcelo’s place, freeing the ownership and (general has coached include Sporting Timo Werner guilty of miss- players, no matter who starts Los Blancos need a positive pairing in recent weeks, keeping him up to join the squad before manager) Tiago Pinto, I im- Braga and Porto. ing good opportunities either tomorrow.” at Stamford Bridge in Wednes- a clean sheet against Liverpool their flight to London.

Quick read Philadelphia 76ers outclass Chicago Bulls, Chelsea bring fans to board meetings Berlin: Chelsea have announced plans to allow three supporter representatives to attend board meetings from July 1 as they look extend lead over Brooklyn Nets to 1 game to rebuild their relationship with the fanbase following the European Super League debacle. The Blues were one of 12 teams to join the TCA/DPA games. proposed breakaway league last month, only to then change their Chicago Meanwhile, Vucevic, a decision within 48 hours as the plans began to crumble. Chelsea’s former Sixer, missed his sec- withdrawal came amid pressure from the media, politicians, fellow The 76ers successfully com- ond consecutive game with clubs, UEFA, the Premier League and the Football Association (FA), pleted the second leg of a right adductor tightness. And while hundreds of supporters gathered outside Stamford Bridge prior unique road trip. Now, they Brown (left ankle sprain) to a match against Brighton and Hove Albion, with Petr Cech having head back to Texas after ex- missed his eighth consecutive to mediate with the protesters. The club have taken a step towards tending their lead atop the game. rebuilding fan trust by ensuring the supporters have a presence at Eastern Conference. Without those three, the future board meetings, though they will not have voting rights. A state- The Sixers defeated the young Bulls couldn’t avoid ex- ment read: “Three supporter advisors, picked through an election and Chicago Bulls, 106-94, on tending their losing streak to selection process, will attend board meetings to ensure general sup- Monday at the United Center. four games. porter sentiment is considered as part of the club’s decision-making Tobias Harris paced Curry was hot in the first process. “The club will now consult with the Fans’ Forum and several Philly’s balanced attack with quarter for the second straight non-official supporter groups to discuss the club’s proposed process 21 points on 10-for-13 shoot- night. He had 11 points on for picking the three supporter advisors.” Fan-led backlashes have left ing to go with nine rebounds. 5-for-7 shooting, including 1 of each of England’s so-called “big six” under pressure, with Manchester Seth Curry had another sharp- 3 on three-pointers. His play United supporters forcing the postponement of their game against shooting night, finishing with helped the Sixers build a 34- Liverpool on Sunday due to their passionate protesting against the 20 points on 7-for-10 shooting, 20 lead after one quarter. club’s owners, the Glazer family. (DPA) making 3 of 5 three-pointers. Philly went on to build a All fiveS ixers starters commanding a 23-point lead scored in double digits. on four occasions in the third Messi investigated for alleged BBQ breach Philly (44-21) now has a quarter. But with a Sixers all- of coronavirus protocols one-game lead over the con- reserve lineup in the game, ference’s second-place Brook- the Bulls pulled within seven Berlin: Lionel Messi is to be investigated by Spain’s Professional lyn Nets with seven contests points with 8:17 remaining. Football League (LFP) following an alleged breach of coronavirus- remaining. The Nets (43-22) Tobias Harris #12 of the Philadelphia 76ers is fouled by Javonte Green #11 of the Chicago Bulls as he That forced Rivers to bring enforced health protocols. It was claimed my numerous media out- face the third-place Milwau- drives against Daniel Theis #27 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. The 76ers defeated the Bulls Embiid, Simmons, Harris, lets that Messi invited team-mates and their respective partners kee Bucks on Tuesday in the 106-94. (Getty Images/AFP) and Curry back into the game. to his home after Sunday’s 3-2 win over Valencia for a celebratory second game of a two-game Green joined them after the barbecue. While it has been seen as another example of Messi series at Fiserv Forum. to Houston, then to Chicago. The Sixers played much group of individuals trying Bulls pulled within one point seemingly being happy again in Barcelona following his attempt The Sixers, meanwhile, “We’re 45 minutes from better against the under- to pad their statistics. Rivers (88-87) with 7:01 to play. to leave last year, the apparent gathering has also attracted the will head to Houston on Tues- Houston, and then we are go- manned Bulls than they did commented about that after The Sixers responded by wrong sort of publicity. Local government has imposed restrictions day for Wednesday night’s ing to fly to Chicago and play versus the undermanned the 113-111 overtime victory closing out the game with an that prohibit gatherings of more than six people. “Meetings and/ game against the Rockets at Chicago, and then fly back Spurs. against the Spurs. So one had 18-7 run. or family and social gatherings, both in the public and private the Toyota Center. All this to Houston,” he said Sunday Sharing the ball, Danny to figure they wouldn’t make Furkan Korkmaz limped spheres, are allowed as long as the maximum number of six comes after the Sixers began night. “It makes no sense, but Green (14 points, three steals), that mistake against Chicago. off the court with 8:02 left in people is not exceeded, except in the case of cohabitants,” Cata- their three-game road trip on it is what it is.” The future Hall Ben Simmons (15 points, six The Bulls (26-39) were the first half after committing lan regulations state. “However, family and social gatherings and/ Sunday against the San Anto- of Fame coach doubled down rebounds, five assists), and without All-Stars Zach LaVine a foul. He went straight to the or encounters that take place in closed spaces, including homes, nio Spurs at the AT&T Center. on his displeasure before Joel Embiid (13 points, 13 re- and Nik Vucevic in addition to locker room. He was ruled out are recommended to be restricted as much as possible and Coach Doc Rivers voiced Monday’s game. bounds, three blocks) also had Troy Brown Jr. This marked for the rest of the game with a limited to visits to dependent or vulnerable people and that are his displeasure Sunday with “Honestly, it just didn’t solid games. the 11th consecutive game La- sprained right ankle. The same always from the same bubble of coexistence.” Stats Perform News having to travel from San An- make a lot of sense,” Rivers This was an improvement Vine missed while the NBA’s injury sidelined Korkmaz understands LFP is looking into the allegations against Messi in an tonio to Chicago and then to said. “But it is what it is, and from Sunday night. That’s Covid-19 health and safety in the Sixers’ two contests attempt to understand whether protocols have been violated. (dpa) Houston. He would have pre- we’ll be ready tonight.” They when the Sixers stopped mov- protocol. against the Bucks on April 22 ferred to go from San Antonio sure were. ing the ball and looked like a Chicago is 4-7 in those and April 24 in Milwaukee. 14 Wednesday, May 5, 2021 Sports PSL franchises request PCB to host remainder Indian Premier League postponed after of tournament in UAE players test positive for coronavirus ANI Karachi DPA/ANI formed that star spinner Amit New Delhi Mishra has been moved to a Pakistan Super League designated medical care facil- (PSL) franchises have asked The Indian Premier League, ity after he tested positive for the Pakistan Cricket Board considered to be a leading coronavirus. (PCB) to stage the remain- tournament for Twenty20 The franchise medical ing matches of this edition of cricket, has been postponed team is in constant touch with the showpiece event in UAE after several players tested Mishra and is ensuring his instead of Karachi amid the positive for the coronavirus. safety. The side also wished fresh surge in coronavirus cas- “The IPL Governing Coun- Mishra a speedy recovery. es in the country. cil and Board of Control for “Delhi Capitals leg spin- PSL six was postponed af- Cricket in India in an emer- ner Amit Mishra has tested ter a string of COVID-19 cases gency meeting has unani- positive for COVID-19. He has were reported in March this mously decided to postpone been moved to a designated year. The tournament will now the IPL 2021 season, with im- medical care facility, as per resume on June 1 with the fi- mediate effect,” the IPL said in BCCI & IPL guidelines,” Delhi nal scheduled for June 20. Ac- statement on Tuesday. Capitals tweeted. cording to a report in ESPN- “The BCCI does not want “The Delhi Capitals medi- cricinfo, all six teams have sent to compromise the safety of cal team is in constant touch a letter to PCB and the board the players, support staff and with Mishra, and ensuring is reviewing the current situ- other participants involved in his safety and well-being. We ation. For now, the franchises organizing the IPL. wish him a speedy recovery,” will assemble in Karachi by This decision was taken it added. May 23 to start the mandatory keeping the safety, health seven-day isolation. and wellbeing of all stake- BCCI open to playing holders in mind.” The Indian remaining games in cricket board was forced to September take the call since four IPL With the second wave of COV- teams were affected by COV- ID-19 rampant in India, the ID-19 and some matches had Board of Control for Cricket been rescheduled in the past in India (BCCI) had no op- days. tion but to postpone the 14th Earlier on Tuesday, two edition of the Indian Premier players from Sunrisers Hy- League (IPL) on Tuesday. derabad and Delhi Capitals But the board is keen to were diagnosed to have con- The Royal Challengers Banglore (RCB) dug out during an IPL 2021 match. The tournament was postponed indefinitely on Tuesday after two tap the September window be- Last month, the Board of tracted the virus. Kolkata Knight Riders players tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of their match against RCB -- which too was put off on Monday. (BCCI/IPL) fore the T20 World Cup to fin- Governors (BoG) of the PCB There has been huge criti- ish the league. met through a virtual confer- cism why the tournament was since the tournament kicked Australia (CA) and ACA read. Government to pause travel Chennai Super Kings (CSK) A senior BCCI officialsaid ence call and the board re- organised at a time when India off on April 9. A total of 29 out “CA is in direct contact from India until at least May batting coach Michael Hus- that if the COVID-19 situation ceived a presentation and an was ravaged by a second, more of scheduled 56 league games with the BCCI as they work 15 and will not seek exemp- sey has now tested positive for is under control in September, update on the report of the severe wave of the pandemic were played this season. through plans to ensure the tions,” the statement further COVID-19. This after bowling the 14th edition of the league two-person fact-finding panel that has killed tens of thousands. Meanwhile, Cricket Aus- safe accommodation and read. “CA and the ACA thank coach L Balaji tested positive can be completed. that was set-up by the PCB The cricket board said it tralia said that it is in direct repatriation of Australian the BCCI for their efforts and on Monday. “Why not? If the foreign chairman to review the bio- would do “everything in its contact with the BCCI to en- players, coaches, match of- cooperation for the safe repa- A senior CSK official said players are available and the security protocols, bylaws, and powers” to arrange the safe sure safe accommodation and ficials, and commentators triation of all participants at that the sample has gone for a COVID-19 situation is in con- arrangements for the PSL. and secure passage of the IPL repatriation of the Australian back home to Australia,” it the IPL,” it added. re-test. “His sample came pos- trol, we can definitely look at After the date of resump- participants even as several contingent. added. The IPL Governing Coun- itive and has gone for a retest that window before the T20 tion of PSL six was revealed, countries have imposed re- “Cricket Australia and the Cricket Australia said it cil (GC) and BCCI on Tues- and we can know only confirm World Cup. the teams participated in a strictions and bans on travel Australian Cricketers’ Asso- will not seek an exemption day in an emergency meeting after that report comes,” the “It can in fact act as a replacement draft to fill in the from India. ciation understand the deci- on the travel ban and thanked unanimously decided to post- official said. good preparation ground for gaps as many overseas cricket- Players from eight IPL sion of the BCCI to indefinitely BCCI for their efforts to ensure pone IPL 2021 season, with the showpiece event,” the ers had pulled out of the event. teams, including several inter- postpone the 2021 Indian Pre- the safety of all participants at immediate effect. Amit Mishra moved to official said. Bangladesh star all-round- national cricketers have been mier League for the safety and the IPL. ‘designated’ medical The T20 World Cup is set er Shakib Al Hasan, New living in bio-secure bubbles wellbeing of all participants,” “CA and the ACA respect CSK batting coach Hussey facility to be played in India in Octo- Zealand opener Martin Gup- and playing to empty stands a joint statement from Cricket the decision of the Australian tests positive Delhi Capitals on Tuesday in- ber and November. till and Andre Russell are set to feature in the remaining matches of the PSL. PSL 6 foreign replacements: Islamabad United: Usman Khawaja replaces Alex Hales, Mertens ousts Halep in epic, sets Sabalenka clash Janneman Malan replaces Lewis Gregory. WTA Belgian’s tenacity. The pattern The hotshots continued because she was stronger in Karachi Kings: Martin Guptill Madrid repeated on Tuesday as she into the second set for Halep, the end,” said Halep. “I cannot replaces Colin Ingram, Thisara doggedly clung on through who recovered from 1-3 down say I played bad, but I did some Perera replaces Mohammad Erstwhile doubles part- lung-busting rallies and knife- and broke for 4-3 after a bril- mistakes, important mistakes. Nabi, Najeebullah Zadran re- ners Elise Mertens and Aryna edge games. liant return game. But the Ro- Sometimes it’s just a little bit places Dan Christian, Litton Das Sabalenka took contrasting “I want to be on court as manian’s lack of focus returned and the match is going away.” replaces Joe Clarke paths to a showdown in the long as possible, especially on the brink of victory. Serving Mertens, into the quarter- Lahore Qalandars: Shakib-al- quarterfinalsof the Mutua after losing the first set,” said to stay in the set, she coughed finals here for the first time, Hasan replaces Rashid Khan, Madrid Open. Mertens. “I didn’t think too up four straight unforced errors will face another Madrid last- James Faulkner replaces David On the Manolo Santana much about the score, I was to find herself in a decider. eight debutante in No.5 seed Wiese, Joe Burns replaces Stadium, No.13 seed Mertens just thinking about the way By now, persistence had Sabalenka. Indeed, the Bela- Samit Patel, Callum Fergusson came from a break down in I should play to improve my- paid off for Mertens. Her rusian had never won a main replaces Tom Abell, Seekuge both the second and third sets self.” backhand down the line was draw match in the Spanish Prasana replaces Joe Denly to upset No.3 seed Simona Ha- The result is Mertens’ sixth finally clicking. Two winners capital before this year, and Multan Sultans: Mahmudul- lep 4-6, 7-5, 7-5 in two hours career victory over a Top 5 op- from that wing garnered her this run marks her first WTA lah Riyad replaces Chris Lynn, and 34 minutes. Meanwhile, ponent, and marks the first a break back for 3-3, and an- 1000 claycourt quarterfinal. Rahmanullah Gurbaz replaces over on the Arantxa Sánchez time Halep has lost before the other pair saw her capture the The pair have won five James Vince, George Linde re- Stadium, Sabalenka needed Madrid quarterfinals since Belgium’s Elise Mertens celebrates winning a point against Romania’s Halep serve again for 4-4. doubles titles together since places Adam Lyth, Obed McCoy only 52 minutes to power past 2015, when she fell to Alizé Simona Halep during their Madrid Open match at the Caja Magica in As in the second set, Ha- 2019, including that year’s US replaces Carlos Brathwaite Jessica Pegula 6-1, 6-2. Cornet in the first round. Madrid on Tuesday. Mertens won 4-6, 7-5, 7-5. (AFP) lep tripped herself up serv- Open and this year’s Austral- Peshawar Zalmi: Fabian Allen Mertens had lost four of Initially, Mertens failed to ing down 5-6. With Mertens ian Open, but parted ways this replaces Mujeeb-ur-Rahman, her five previous meetings find gain much traction with and again. ultimately cost her the match. giving nothing away, another season in order for Sabalenka Rovman Powell replaces Liam against Halep, including all her tactical approach. Halep Halep herself was also But with Mertens still trying sequence of unforced errors to focus on singles. Livingstone, Fidel Edwards three on clay. But her sole vic- was rarely troubled by her error-strewn, and her loss of to find her game, the two-time flowed from the Halep racquet “She’s on fire, she’s making replaces Saqib Mahmood tory in the series, a 3-6, 6-4, changes of spin and depth, a break lead in the first set Madrid champion found some to take her total to 48. a lot of angles and winners,” Quetta Gladiators: Andre Rus- 6-3 win in the 2018 Doha fi- and the Mertens backhand foreshadowed the failure to fine forehand angles to close “She played really well, and said Mertens of their upcom- sell replaces Tom Banton. nal, had been a triumph of the down the line misfired time press home leads that would out the opener. she definitely deserved to win ing tilt.

Rublev overcomes tough Paul challenge Tennis talk Strycova announces retirement, hopes ATP week also marking his Ma- most ATP wins in 2021 with 27. for Wimbledon farewell Madrid drid debut. After four straight Meanwhile, Matteo Ber- service breaks heading into rettini won a generational all- Former Doubles No.1 and Wimbledon singles Andrey Rublev overcame the tie-break, and later a 1/5 Italian battle beating Fabio semifinalist Barbora Strycova has announced her a tough challenge on his Mu- deficit, the American held his Fognini 6-3, 6-4 to reach the impending retirement. The Czech veteran still tua Madrid Open debut on nerve to fight back and clinch third round. holds out hope that she will be able to say her Tuesday to beat Tommy Paul the 49-minute opener by win- The first time these two final farewell on a match court in 2022. D“ ear 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-4 for a place in ning six points in a row. Italian stars met was four years fans...or I should say friends,” Strycova wrote. the third round. Paul put forth In the second set, Paul ago at the Internazionali BNL “As you might have heard, I announced my retire- a brilliant effort while Rublev showed signs of fatigue, and d’Italia. Berrettini was 21 years ment from professional tennis today. It feels struggled to control the ball in after trading service games, old and No. 249 in the FedEx weird. Until now, tennis was the only world I the unfamiliar high altitude. Rublev capitalised on Paul’s ATP Rankings, and he man- Barbora Strycova. knew. I have always had enormous love for this “It’s important to win slight letdown in energy to aged just four games. Berrettini amazing sport. Even though all the pain, tears, when you’re not [playing] your break for 5-3. The third set is now the No. 1 Italian and he renunciation and sweat, all the great moment and victories were [best] game and things are not could have gone either way reenforced his status with an worth it! “I never planned to end my career during a pandemic. going well,” the Russian said with both raising their inten- 82-minute victory at the Caja However, some moments in life just can’t be planned and I am on-court. “So it’s really impor- sity. Paul had a look at a break Magica. He has now won five super excited for my next life role as a mom. It doesn’t mean I tant to win this match to have Russia’s Andrey Rublev returns the ball to USA’s Tommy Paul during point at 4-3, but Rublev saved consecutive matches including will accept that fact that I didn’t play my last match in front of an more confidence. I’m happy their 2021 ATP Tour Madrid Open match at the Caja Magica in Madrid it and then took all of the mo- his title run in Belgrade. audience. “Once it’s possible, I will play one last match...in front of that I turned it around.” on Tuesday. (AFP) mentum to break in the very “I’m pretty happy for my you. To say a proper goodbye.” The World No. 7, who has next game. He sealed his first physical shape, for my mental A Wimbledon singles semifinalist and doubles champion, as well as advanced to the quarter-finals ing the semi-finals in Miami and Bautista Agut and Marco win in Madrid with an ace. performance so far, and the an Olympic bronze medalist and member of the Czech Republic’s or better in all seven tourna- the final in Monte-Carlo. Cecchinato. Rublev improves to 3-0 in way I came back after a big in- Billie Jean King Cup dynasty, the 34-year-old has not played a tour- ments he has played this season, Rublev’s next opponent is Rublev opened up a 4-2 their ATP Head2Head Series jury. I think I’m playing good. nament since the Australian Open. In March, she announced her is now 9-2 at the ATP Masters still undecided as John Isner lead in the first set, but Paul and inches ahead of Stefanos I’m really feeling confident,” pregnancy and is expecting a son in September. (WTA) 1000 level in 2021, after reach- awaits the winner of Roberto stayed calm, even with this Tsitsipas to take the lead for Berrettini said.