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CRICKET Ex-captain Kumble named India coach for one year ‘Anil Kumble is now transforming himself from being a great on the cricketing field to becoming a great coach’

AFP New Delhi

ormer Test captain Anil Kum- ble was yesterday named the new head coach of India for a one-year period, taking over theF reins of one of the most high-pro- fi le sides in world cricket. The highest Indian Test wicket-tak- er, Kumble, 45, is known for his work ethic and never-say-die attitude — at- tributes that tipped the scale in his fa- vour during a tough selection process. The Indian team, ranked number two in Tests, enjoys the adulation of mil- lions of cricket crazy fans ensuring high TV viewership that in turn translates into lucrative profi ts for the board. “After doing discussions with vari- ous stakeholders we have selected Anil Kumble for a period of one year,” Board Board of Control for Cricket in India president Anurag Thakur (left) speaks during a of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) press conference in Dharamsala yesterday. (AFP) president Anurag Thakur told reporters in the northern town of Dharamsala. coach of India. The expectations from England’s Jim Laker to have taken all 10 The spin great was chosen from a list him will be huge,” popular cricket com- in a Test innings. of 57 applicants received by the BCCI mentator Harsha Bhogle tweeted. One of the most enduring memories which was later pruned and placed in Kumble has previously served as the of the leg-spinner dates to the Antigua front of an advisory panel. president of his state association in Test in 2002 when he bowled despite a Cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar, from being (a) great on the cricketing Fletcher’s exit in 2015, was also in the “It’s a huge responsibility, I have al- Karnataka and headed BCCI’s technical broken jaw to help the Indian team sal- Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman were fi eld to becoming the great coach that frame for the coach’s role. ways put my hand up for challenges and committee. He is currently the chair- vage a draw against the West Indies. among the panel members involved in we expect him to be.” The month-long process for select- I am ready to take up this role,” he added. man of the International Cricket Coun- The gutsy cricketer, who became the selecting Kumble as coach. Kumble did not fulfi l the BCCI’s ing the coach culminated during the Kumble has a tough road ahead as In- cil (ICC) cricket committee. fourth Indian to be inducted into the “This is the fi rst time we have gone stated criteria of “having coached an penultimate day of an ongoing BCCI dia look to a gruelling season of cricket, “Jumbo”, as he was fondly called ICC Hall of Fame in 2015, even has a through an elaborate process... inter- international side”, yet he managed to conclave in Dharamsala. including hosting top sides like New during his playing days for his bowling Test century to his credit during his 18- views (were conducted) by cricketing sneak past many prominent Indian and Zealand, England and Australia. prowess, has mentored Indian Premier year illustrious career. legends,” BCCI secretary Ajay Shirke foreign candidates. ‘GREAT HONOUR’ His fi rst coaching assignment will League sides such as the Mumbai Indi- Kumble captained the India Test side said. Former team director Ravi Shastri, “It’s a great honour to be back again in be India’s upcoming tour of the West ans and Royal Challengers Bangalore. for just over a year after replacing Rahul Asked why Kumble was given only a who was performing coaching du- the Indian dressing room in a diff erent Indies in July where the team will play The leg-spinner bagged 619 Test Dravid in 2007. He led India in 14 Tests, one-year contract, Shirke replied: “Anil ties for the team under a stop-gap ar- role and in a diff erent capacity,” Kumble four Tests. wickets in 132 matches and is only the winning three, losing fi ve and drawing Kumble is now transforming himself rangement after Zimbabwean Duncan told reporters after his appointment. “Kumble is an outstanding choice as second bowler in cricket history after the remaining six.

BOTTOMLINE Sweden bids adieu to ‘proud’ Ibrahimovic

AFP nated but I think he can still do a lot of Nice, France things at club level.” Indeed Chelsea midfi elder Hazard could well be facing ‘Ibra’ in the Pre- weden bid farewell to Zlatan mier League next season as the Swede Ibrahimovic with noisy trib- is rumoured to be heading to Manches- utes but no goals and exited the ter United after parting company with European Championship fi nals Paris Saint-Germain following four Smeekly after a 1-0 defeat by Belgium. highly successful seasons. The brash giant of football ended Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, his 116-cap international career on Ibrahimovic thanked supporters who Wednesday with 62 often spectacular he said “made it possible for me to goals yet not a shot on target during achieve what I have achieved”. Sweden’s three matches at Euro 2016. “So wherever I go, wherever I come, Ibrahimovic brushed away the disap- I’ll always bring the Swedish fl ag with pointment of elimination at the group me and stand with it. So for me disap- stage and said he was proud of having pointment doesn’t exist, only pride, emerging from “the ghetto” to become and gratitude. I’m very thankful. So Sweden’s record goal scorer. thank you,” he said. “It’s heavy, it’s disappointing, but at The Swede has almost guaranteed the same time I enjoyed it,” he said. “This success wherever he played with league was my last game in the national team. I titles in the Netherlands, Italy, Spain and have many fantastic memories, because France. However, the Champions League it’s a nice story because where I came has proved frustratingly out of reach. from, a little... what people call the ghet- Ibrahimovic made his international to, and I made that country my country.” debut against the Faroe Islands in Janu- Ibrahimovic, 34, was born to a Bosnian ary 2001, but he has been unable to fi re father and a Croatian mother in the tough Sweden beyond the quarter-fi nals of a Malmo neighbourhood of Rosengard and major tournament. had a diffi cult childhood. Sweden’s forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic The striker missed a penalty in a He will be dearly missed by Sweden acknowledges the spectators at the end of shootout defeat to the Dutch at Euro and many of their opponents as the Euro 2016 Group E match against Belgium 2004 with subsequent appearances at Zlatan portraits on yellow fl ags and in Nice, France, on Wednesday. (AFP) the European Championship ending at thousands of Swedish fans chanting the group stage. his name to the Pet Shop Boys song “Go He featured at just one World Cup, West” testifi ed. Euro fi nals but barely got a look-in in not a Zlatan as I don’t think in a small you fi nish your international career,” said Ibrahimovic as “a big man in football”. in 2006, and missed out on the last two Triumphant Belgian fans in the Nice France. country like Sweden you can fi nd Belgian coach Marc Wilmots. “He has “He did a lot of important things. Of global showpieces. stadium only slightly spoiled the occa- “I hoped for a better fi nish for him,” someone like that, he’s really unique.” done a lot of things for Sweden.” course he wanted to go further in this He famously said the 2014 fi nals in sion when they changed the words to said Sweden coach Erik Hamren, who “He is a big personality of football, I tournament but our objective today was Brazil would “not be worth watching” “Bye Bye Ibrahimovic”. admitted he was losing a rare talent. told him ‘bravo’ for your career. I was a ‘BIG MAN IN FOOTBALL’ to qualify and we did that,” Hazard said. after Sweden lost to Portugal in a two- Ibrahimovic scored at three previous “I hope we can fi nd another player, player myself so I know how it feels when Belgium captain Eden Hazard described “Unfortunately for him he was elimi- legged play-off . Gulf Times 2 Friday, June 24, 2016 EURO 2016

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT England hold Ireland can compete no fear for with France: Brady Iceland boss ‘I think we can go as far as we allow ourselves in this tournament’ Lagerback

AFP our squad who haven’t played in Annecy-le-Vieux, France England. It’s one explanation of why Sweden did so well.” The clash in Nice has been oasting a personal six- hailed as David vs Goliath by game unbeaten record Magnus Ver Magnusson, the Ice- against England, Iceland land powerhouse who has four co-coach Lars Lager- times won the world’s strongest backB insists his side won’t be man title. overawed by facing a selection Iceland have enjoyed huge of Premier League stars in their support across France with more Euro 2016 last 16 clash Monday. than 25,000 fans at some of their Lagerback enjoyed plenty of matches despite being the small- success against England in nine est nation ever to take part in a years as Sweden coach and be- Euro fi nals with a population of lieves a similar familiarity with just 330,000. the Premier League could help “I’ve seen the pictures from Iceland pull off a monumental back in Iceland and you almost upset in their debut major fi nals. start to have tears in your eyes “It’s always nice to play Eng- when you see it,” added the usu- land — I have good experience ally stoic Lagerback. about that. I played them six “I’m really happy for all the times when I was coach of Swe- players and the fans and staff ; den and we never lost, so we will it’s absolutely fantastic what we try to keep that going,” said La- have done. gerback yesterday. “It’s one of the best moments “It’s a little bit special to play for me in my career. We are un- them because in Iceland they derdogs and to get results like are brought up on the Premier this with Iceland is extra special.” League, as they are in Sweden. Lagerback also has a special “And it would be really nice to connection to the England camp keep a good record against one of having known manager Roy the best football countries in the Hodgson for 40 years. world.” Hodgson started his manage- Star midfi elder Gylfi Sigurds- rial career with Swedish min- son and captain Aron Gunnars- nows Halmstad. son are among those in the Ice- “I have known Roy since the land squad who ply their trade in ‘70s and that gives the game an English football. extra kick. I don’t think I will take “The big advantage for us, as it any contact from him before the was when we played England with game, though, we will focus on Republic of Ireland’s Robbie Brady scores during the Euro 2016 Group E match against Italy in Lille, France on Wednesday. Ireland won 1-0. (Reuters) Sweden, is that we know English our own thing and then hope- football very well. We have players fully we can meet in and around AFP who have played there and every- the game. Lille, France Henry handball ‘forgotten’, but O’Neill plots France’s downfall body knows their players. “I regard him as one of my “I don’t know if you ask Eng- friends. I fi rst met him when he AFP to — we must look forward to the game, lish players they knew many of moved to Halmstad in 1976.” rish hero Robbie Brady insisted that Versailles, France but not just look forward to it, actually the Republic of Ireland have nothing believe that you can compete and win to fear in a Euro 2016 knockout tie the game. against hosts France after his goal se- epublic of Ireland boss Martin “We have to think that because the Icured a famous win over Italy. O’Neill wants his players to target performance last night will give us an Having to win Wednesday’s match to Rglory rather than revenge when enormous boost of confidence and we progress from Group E, Ireland looked to they face hosts France in a Euro 2016 need to carry that through.” be heading out as they went into the fi nal last 16 clash on Sunday. On top of home advantage for the fi ve minutes at Lille’s Stade Pierre-Mau- Ireland were denied a place in the 2010 Lyon clash, France have also had three roy with the game still goalless. World Cup when Arsenal legend Thierry days more rest ahead of the match on But then Brady appeared, running onto Henry controlled the ball with his hand Sunday. a Wes Hoolahan cross to score and secure to tee up a William Gallas equaliser O’Neill’s men did not get to bed until a 1-0 victory that took Martin O’Neill’s that sent France to South Africa from a about 5.30am yesterday after travelling men through as one of the best third- playoff in 2009. back to their base in Versailles outside placed sides. “I think we have decided to forget about Paris, and having played on a Lille pitch The win set Ireland up for a rematch it — that’s something coming from Ire- UEFA admitted had suff ered “irrevers- with the French, seven years on from the land. It will be a talking point obviously, ible damage.” infamous Thierry Henry handball that but I don’t think it will concern us when “It does seem a disproportionate knocked the Irish out in a World Cup we play the game.” amount of time that one team has to re- qualifying play-off . Ireland sealed their place in the knock- cover from another. That might become And Brady said the triumph, that fol- out stage in dramatic fashion thanks to very important,” said O’Neill. lowed a 1-0 win over world champions Robbie Brady’s late header to beat Italy 1982 that brought us up against the “I understand that, as the host nation, Germany in qualifying, should now stand 1-0 in Lille. host nation, who we had to beat to get you should get some favours,” he Ireland in good stead. And O’Neill is now aiming to repeat the through to the quarter-finals, and that added. “We have managed to beat some of the feat he achieved as a Northern Ireland was an immense moment for us and “If the competition was in Ireland, I best teams in the world. We know (France) player in dumping hosts Spain out of one that I will never forget. would do exactly the same myself. are a top-class team and they have got the 1982 World Cup. “There are similarities between that and Teams that play Ireland would play some unbelievable players but if we can “When I think about it there are definite now facing France on Sunday. every single night and we wouldn’t have stick together and click we can hurt any- similarities. We went on a journey in “It’s a game that we will look forward to play for a year.” body,” said the Norwich City player, who CELEBRATION would have merited his man of the match award even without his goal. the Lille stands came after they were held ‘MOVE ON’ FROM 2009 Drawing France revives the memory of “I don’t think we have anything to fear to a 1-1 draw by Sweden in their opening O’Neill, who has enjoyed some great suc- what happened when the countries met and I think we can go as far as we allow game and then suff ered a comprehensive cesses both as a player and a manager, in that World Cup qualifying play-off in Reykjavik to shut ourselves in this tournament.” 3-0 defeat to Belgium. labelled the victory as one of the fi nest of November 2009, when Henry’s handball For Ireland it was a fi rst win in a com- It also justified manager O’Neill’s his career and joked that a last-16 tie with set up William Gallas for the goal that petitive match against Italy since the decision to make four changes to his the French would be “easy”. eliminated Ireland and caused an inter- 1994 World Cup and Brady’s heroics starting line-up, including completely “I really don’t want to think that this is national outcry. However, Robbie Keane, down as Iceland’s mean he — at the age of just 24 — has changing his central defence, where the end for us. We need another perform- who scored for Ireland that night at the secured himself legendary status among Shane Duffy of Blackburn Rovers held ance like that to stand any chance and we Stade de France, said he would not be Irish fans. his nerve brilliantly in his first compet- have to fi nd the energy again from some- dwelling on events of seven years past. enjoys Euro saga “I can’t really explain the feeling. You itive international. where,” said O’Neill, whose side will have “I will not think about that for one hear people who have scored these types “You would’ve thought that Duff y was had three days fewer than the French to second because it was so long ago. Move of goals saying that it is like an out of body playing in his 35th international. He was prepare for Sunday’s match in Lyon. on,” said the veteran striker. “This is why Reuters Get into the penalty area, get into experience and I was lucky enough to ex- terrifi c and so was the whole team,” said “This is tournament football. Players we play the game. We knew that if we got Reykjavik the penalty area!” he implored, perience it tonight,” acknowledged the O’Neill. have come in and played their third game out of the group we’d be playing a top, top before screaming joyously as Ar- Dubliner. “There wasn’t a player out there in an in nine days, but it’s the same for a lot of team and we’re playing the hosts so it’s nor Traustason fi red home the Ireland’s win in front of a sea of green in Irish shirt who didn’t perform heroically.” other sides.” going to be great.” he Icelandic capital is fac- decisive goal. ing another shutdown on “Yes Yes Yes! We have won! Monday as the tiny North We are now in last 16! My voice Atlantic nation’s Euro has gone but it doesn’t matter R16 R16 Saturday, June 25 Sunday, June 26 T2016 saga unfolds with a knockout because we are going through! SUI V POL Knockouts GER V SVK tie against England in Nice. We have won against Austria!” QF Thursday, June 30 QF Saturday, July 2 A late winner over Austria Reykjavik resident Inga Ste- Saint-Etienne 4pm Lille 7pm handed Iceland second spot in fansdottir, who watched the V Calendar V Group F behind Hungary and game at home with family and R16 Saturday, June 25 Marseille 10pm Bordeaux 10pm R16 Monday, June 27 qualifi cation for the last 16, friends, said she had a similar CRO V POR ITA V ESP sending the Austrians home, reaction to that of the TV com- with Portugal also going through mentator. She said the game, Lens Saint-Denis 10pm 10pm 7pm as one of the four best third- broadcast at four o’clock local FINAL placed teams. time, led to a complete shutdown SF Wednesday, July 6 SF Thursday, July 7 Iceland is the smallest nation in the capital city. ever to qualify for the European “People were getting home V V V Championship and an estimated from work early, kindergartens Lyon 10pm Marseille 10pm 10 percent of Iceland’s popula- told parents to pick up the chil- tion of around 330,000 is in France dren earlier,” she said. “There was Sunday, July 10 Saint-Denis R16 Saturday, June 25 R16 Sunday, June 26 to follow the team, with the rest not a soul on the streets, it was like glued to their TV screens at home. a shutdown in Iceland. Everyone WAL V NIR FRA V IRL The joy of the nation is was watching the game.” QF Friday, July 1 QF Sunday, July 3 Paris 7pm Lyon 4pm summed up in a viral video of For Iceland, which suff ered V V Icelandic TV commentator Gud- enormously following the glo- mundur Benediktsson as Elmar bal fi nancial crisis in 2008, the R16 Sunday, June 26 Lille Saint-Denis R16 Monday, June 27 10pm 10pm Bjarnason, whom the commen- exploits of the football team are HUN V BEL ENG V ISL tator referred to by his nickname a welcome good news story in a Toulouse 10pm Nice 10pm Emmi, broke free in injury time. country that has struggled to get “Three against two! Emmi! itself back on track. Gulf Times Friday, June 24, 2016 3 EURO 2016

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Wales have Conte’s Italy ‘bragging rights’ over England, hopeful of hurting says Bale

AFP “Obviously you come to the Dinard, France tournament for one reason: to win,” said the 26-year-old for- ward who is level with Spain’s champions Spain fter claiming “bragging Alvaro Morata in the top scorer rights” over England, race. Both have three goals. Wales star Gareth Bale “You do not come out here to ‘We mustn’t get above our station. A last-16 match against Spain should excite us’ said yesterday he was play three games and go home. savouringA the prospect of a new The ultimate goal is we want to AFP Battle of Britain against North- try and win the tournament.” Lille, France ern Ireland at the European Bale said: “It is up to others to Championship fi nals. decide if we are favourites. We Wales stole a march over Eng- just concentrate on ourselves. taly coach Antonio Conte believes land by fi nishing top of Group B The tag doesn’t matter to us. We his team can thrive as the under- despite losing the clash between all know what we have to do and dogs when they face Spain in the fi rst the two, and Bale was clearly de- we’ll go out to win the game. knockout round at Euro 2016 next lighted. “Until that whistle goes and IMonday. “It is a moral victory for us. It we’re through we can’t think The Azzurri’s reward for fi nishing top gives you bragging rights to fi n- about what may be ahead for a of Group E is a meeting with the reigning ish top. It is always nice to get second before.” champions in a repeat of the Euro 2012 one over on the English,” he said. Wales and Northern Ireland fi nal, when Spain outclassed the Italians Bale had riled England with are competing at their fi rst Euro 4-0 in Kiev. his comments before their Euro fi nals and their places in the last Given that Conte’s side were written game. But England won the 16 are already a cause for cel- off in some quarters before the tourna- match 2-1. ebration. ment began, just reaching the knockout Wales start Saturday’s game The two drew 1-1 in Cardiff phase could be considered a success in against Northern Ireland as in a friendly in March that Bale itself. heavy favourites, but Bale is not missed through injury. But the coach said his players could using the same pre-match mind And the Real Madrid ace can take inspiration from their performance games as with England. see the qualities in Michael in beating much-fancied Belgium 2-0 in “We know each and every game O’Neill’s Northern Ireland team. their opening game at the tournament is as important as the last. It’s a “They topped their group in last week when they head to the Stade de cliche but we’ll take each one as qualifying, you don’t do that by France. it comes,” Bale said toning down mistake,” he said. “The players are doing everything his comments when talking about “They have a very similar team they have to. They are working very hard Wales prospects at Euro 2016. spirit to us. They are a bit more and we have to keep grafting. We must “Yes we would love to win defensive than us. It will be dif- not have any anxiety,” said Conte after a it, but all our focus now is on fi cult to break them down but we much-changed Italian side, with top spot Northern Ireland.” will try our best. in their group already assured, lost 1-0 to Winning Group B means Chris “At this stage no matter who the Republic of Ireland on Wednesday. Coleman’s men will not have you get it is not going to be an “The fi rst aim was to get into the last to face Germany, Italy, Spain, easy game. 16. Now we have a match against one of France or England unless they get “We know more about North- the favourites but let’s not forget where Italy head coach Antonio Conte and their players walk off the pitch after their loss to Republic of Ireland in their Euro 2016 Group E to the July 10 fi nal. ern Ireland than Albania or Tur- we started from. match in Lille, France, on Wednesday. (Reuters) And Welsh supporters are key and obviously we are happy “We mustn’t get above our station. A dreaming of getting to the Stade with the draw. last-16 match against Spain should excite extremely uneven draw. midfi elder Thiago Motta was one of those tournament and then after two matches de France in a campaign which “It is a diffi cult game but one us and we need to play like we did against If the Azzurri do manage to beat Spain who came into the Italy side at the Stade we were already through.” would match the wins of Den- we can win, we will concentrate Belgium, against a side who are suppos- — who also knocked them out on pen- Pierre-Mauroy. Italy had looked set for a tie against mark and Greece in the 1992 and on ourselves as we usually do and edly superior.” alties in the Euro 2008 quarter-fi nals Motta, 33, is likely to drop out of the Croatia before Ante Cacic’s team claimed a 2004 tournaments. take it from there.” — their reward could be a quarter-fi nal team again come Monday to make way for surprise 2-1 victory over Spain to leave the ‘CRAZY IMBALANCE’ against world champions Germany. Roma’s Daniele De Rossi for a match he reigning champions second in Group D and Italy’s wins against the Belgians and Hosts France or England could come in says Italy can win. on a collision course with the Azzurri. Sweden allowed Conte to rotate his squad the semi-fi nals. “We know that Italy are not as good a Motta added: “Once the match starts against Ireland in Lille, where he made “There is a crazy imbalance in the draw side as Spain or Germany but we know we there will be no favourites. They will try eight changes to his starting line-up. for the second round, but those are the can win by playing to our strengths,” said to control possession but Croatia showed But winning the group has done little rules and we have to respect them,” Conte Motta, who appeared as a substitute in that there are weaknesses in their side to help Italy, who fi nd themselves on the said. the 2012 fi nal. and we have the weapons to cause Spain wrong side of what now has the look of an Paris Saint-Germain’s Brazil-born “Nobody believed in us before the problems.”

Spain paid for over-confi dence, says Juanfran

AFP “I would be lying if I said we hadn’t “In a game with more in play, when one Saint-Martin-de-Ré, France thought a lot about what happened to detail can put you out, we wouldn’t have us against Croatia. That little excess of been so open. It was an error from the confidence that things were going so whole group that we won’t have against ight-back Juanfran admitted well is what we have to correct.” Italy.” European champions Spain were Even if they get past Antonio Conte’s solid Celta Vigo’s Nolito also insisted Spain Rpunished for their over-confi- Italian outfit, Spain now face having to had no one to fear as two-time defend- dence as they were struck by a Croatia beat world champions Germany and hosts ing champions despite their diff icult sucker punch to miss out on top spot in France just for the chance to defend their draw. England’s Jamie Vardy celebrates after scoring a goal against Wales in Euro 2016 Group D. title in the final in Paris on July 10. “We are calm, we still depend on Lens on June 16, 2016. Wales stole a march over England by finishing Ivan Perisic’s winner three minutes from Spain were made to pay for captain ourselves. We have to respect all our top of Group B despite losing the clash between the two, and Bale was time means Spain were pushed into the Sergio Ramos’s missed penalty 18 opponents, but we don’t fear anyone,” clearly delighted. (AFP) much tougher half of the draw and face minutes from time as the rapid Perisic said the forward, who looks set to seal old foes Italy in a repeat of the Euro 2012 broke away to fire in at David de Gea’s a big-money move to Pep Guardiola’s final in the last 16 on Monday. near post. Manchester City. VERDICT “The excess of confidence we had in the “We had the game under control. We “De Gea was annoyed, Sergio Ramos too, game against Croatia we have to correct had chances and we nearly went 2-1 up but we all support each other. against Italy,” said the Atletico Madrid which would have killed the game off ,” “When we win, we win together, when defender. added Juanfran. we lose, we lose together.” Austria coach feels

BOTTOMLINE heat aft er Euro exit

AFP Gambling-mad Vietnamese put houses on Euro 2016 Vienna ustria’s coach Marcel AFP dulled his lust for a gamble, with Euro certifi cates as gamblers rustle up cash of dollars during Euro 2016, he told AFP, Koller came under me- Hanoi 2016 no exception. for the big games — and to cover heavy adding that up the chain the returns will dia fi re yesterday after The bets are now more modest, but losses. be “too huge” to estimate. his team were uncer- Nguyen said he nearly doubled a $20 Many are likely to fi nd themselves That is thanks to regular punters like emoniouslyA dumped out of Euro ootball and a fl utter go hand-in- stake last week by backing England to bankrupt — or desperately hiding from Tran Quoc Vinh, whose main source of 2016 by Iceland. hand in Vietnam making Euro beat Wales in their group qualifi er. bookies and their henchmen — by the income for the last 15 years has been gam- Touted as dark horses before, 2016 a golden opportunity for The lure of striking it rich and a culture tournament’s end. bling. Austria failed miserably to repro- fans to enjoy two national obses- steeped in superstitions surrounding luck Those who fail to pay face harassment While he is not a massive football fan, duce their impressive qualify- sions,F even for those who have already bet captivate many in a nation where rapid and threats from their creditors, with he has had a very successful Euro 2016 so ing form, losing 2-0 to Hungary their houses on the beautiful game — and development has unleashed a hunger for debt collectors deployed to homes or far with his $500 initial stake now worth although they somehow scraped lost. new luxuries and larger slices of the eco- workplaces. 10 times more after just a few matches. a goalless draw against Portugal. Each major football championship is nomic pie. Vietnam’s gambling addicts span the By sending a text message or making a “One point, one goal. For a followed by a slew of reports of big wins, Illegal betting typically spikes during social spectrum from white-collar pub- quick call, Vinh places bets worth hun- team that wanted to conquer the losses and suicides that fi xate a nation major sporting events, such as the World lic servants to students and even profes- dreds of dollars within seconds. euros, an embarrassing knock- with a particularly deep love for gam- Cup and European Championship, when sional footballers. His brokers often stump up the cash for out,” the Kronen-Zeitung tabloid bling, even though it is outlawed. millions of dollars trade hands and are And as usual it is the bookies who al- him in good faith that he will pay. said. Speaking at a small cafe in Hanoi, wired overseas. ways seem to have the last laugh. “The agents transfer the order up to The Osterreich daily pinned the to do this in such an important Nguyen The Hoang recounts an aston- Exact fi gures are hard to come by. The On the surface Phuc, a pseudonym, is a maybe two or three more levels,” Vinh blame largely on the Swiss coach game is beyond me. ishing gambling run during the last Eu- government has not made any estimate law-abiding Hanoi jewellery shop owner. explained, adding that payments are usu- and his “failed experiment” of a “Previously the Swiss has ropean Championship in 2012 that ended and there has been little academic re- But in reality, the 55-year-old plies his ally settled in the following days. new 5-3-2 formation against Ice- never taken risks like this. In all up wiping out his fortune. search on the phenomenon. trade as an illegal gambling agent, earning “Betting is the game of trust. We count land, with Bayern Munich’s Dav- the test matches before the tour- “Football betting cost me almost half a However a police operation against an a one percent commission on all the bets on each other to be successful,” he said. id Alaba — a defender — up front. nament, the perfect time to try mn dollars,” the 58-year-old explains of a illegal betting ring that was announced he brokers. In recent years there has been some de- “As a result the team looked new things out, he played the old bad streak that cost him two homes and a by state media earlier this month provid- In an interview with AFP he explained bate in Vietnam’s staid and heavily cen- confused at the beginning. The system.” restaurant. ed a rare window into the sums involved. how his syndicate works. sored state media on whether gambling players were stepping on each The Kurier daily said that the “My wife hates football so much be- Offi cials said they had arrested 23 peo- A network of bookies collect cash from should be legalised, handing the govern- other’s feet,” the paper said. new formation had in fact been cause it ruined our lives,” he added. ple from a single gang which had taken in punters who pass him the money that is ment a potential bonanza in tax takings. “Only after half-time did (Koller) tried out once before — in a 14:0 The father-of-two now washes dishes a total of $340mn worth of bets over the then placed online by “big bosses”. Betting agent Phuc says police crack- correct his mistake.” drubbing of second-division at a small streetside noodle shop, where previous 12 months. Those bosses, he explains, are con- downs on the gambling industry will Austria legend Toni Polster Swiss side US Schluein Ilanz last his wife prepares bowls of pho that bring With Euro 2016 in full swing, Hanoi nected to illegal syndicates in Hong Kong never work. said Koller’s “completely unnec- month. in a meagre $10 a day. pawnshops are fi lling up with smart- and Taiwan. “There is always demand and that essary experiment went com- Koller’s performance “was not But his impecunious new life has not phones, motorbikes, cars and even land He expects to rake in tens of thousands leads to supply,” he said grinning. pletely wrong. Why he chose without mistakes,” Kurier said. Gulf Times 4 Friday, June 24, 2016 FOOTBALL

REPORT IN BRIEF Chile down Colombia, to meet Argentina in

Vardy stays with Leicester eicester City struck an early blow ahead Lof the new Premier League season Copa fi nal on Sunday when leading striker Jamie Vardy signed a four-year contract extension with the champions yesterday. England international Sunday’s final will be the second time Argentina and Chile have met in the tournament. Vardy, whose 24 goals propelled Claudio Ranieri’s side to a fairytale title, had been Argentina beat the Chileans 2-1 in their opening Group D match earlier in the tournament strongly linked with a move to Arsenal. There were fears that Vardy’s departure could have sparked an exodus of Leices- AFP ter’s key players such as PFA Player of the Chicago Season Riyad Mahrez and N’Golo Kante. Instead, the 29-year-old has signalled his intent to consolidate Leicester’s new-found hile stormed into the Copa status and lead them in their first Champi- America fi nal yesterday, beat- ons League campaign. ing Colombia 2-0 in a weath- Former Leicester and England striker er-disrupted semi-fi nal that Gary Lineker applauded Vardy’s decision Ctook more than four hours to complete. to turn down a move. “A show of loyalty The defending champions advanced from @vardy7 and a show of ambition to a repeat of last year’s fi nal against from @LCFC is to be applauded. Jamie to Argentina on Sunday after a whirlwind #remain,” BBC presenter Lineker said on start left Colombia chasing the game. his Twitter account. Chile, who had destroyed Mexico Media reports say Vardy’s salary will rise 7-0 in the quarter-fi nals on Saturday, to 100,000 pounds per week. The champi- picked up where they left off , scoring ons have already started strengthening with twice in the opening 11 minutes to take defender Luis Hernandez joining on a free a grip on the contest. transfer from La Liga side Sporting Gijon on Bayer Leverkusen midfi elder Charles a four-year contract this week. Hernandez’s Aranguiz opened the scoring in the sev- signing followed that of German goalkeeper enth minute before Jose Pedro Fuenza- Ron-Robert Zieler from Hannover. lida made it 2-0 after 11 minutes. Vardy is currently part of England’s Euro “It’s a good feeling to be back in the 2016 squad and scored an equaliser in his fi nal again after overcoming diffi cult country’s 2-1 victory over Wales. opponents,” Chile coach Juan Antonio Pizzi said. “We got off to a good start, played Griezmann signs new deal aggressively and had a lot of anticipa- tletico Madrid forward Antoine tion. That helped us score the goals.” AGriezmann has signed a fresh deal Chile’s explosive start to the contest with Atletico Madrid, keeping the France was overshadowed by the interven- international at the La Liga side until 2021. tion of Mother Nature at half-time, Greizmann fired in 32 goals as Diego as a powerful electrical thunderstorm Simeone’s side narrowly missed out on rolled into downtown Chicago and the Spanish title behind Real Madrid halted play. and champions Barcelona last season, Tens of thousands of spectators but missed a penalty in the Champions were ordered to take shelter inside the League final defeat to city rivals Real. stadium, leaving the ground empty as The star forward “has renewed his torrential rain pounded the stands. contract with our club until June 30, 2021”, For a while it looked as if play would Atletico announced in a statement yester- be abandoned, with the teams forced day. It said the 25-year-old “has enjoyed to return to the venue after three hours two excellent seasons in our team” since to complete the remaining 45 min- 2014 with a 57-goal haul. “I’m very happy, utes. However, a break in the weather very happy to stay in this family and in this allowed teams of ground staff to set project,” Griezmann added. “Every year I about clearing excess water from the seek to improve and the club, the coach fi eld, and after a delay of two hours and and my teammates allow me to. My goal is 25 minutes, the second half resumed at always to improve on what was done the 10:25pm local time (0325 GMT). Chile midfielder Charles Aranguiz (right) and forward Alexis Sanchez celebrate a goal against Colombia during their Copa America semi-final match. (USA TODAY Sports) previous season.” Griezmann is currently “It was hard to stay focused, for those on duty with France at Euro 2016, scoring in hours,” Pizzi said. “Just sitting in the riguez doing his best to take control of Colombia continued to chase the second half the team believed we could bled their lead. A long goal kick from the tournament hosts’ 2-0 win over Albania dressing room waiting for something.” the match, Colombia looked lively in game relentlessly, but came up short, get a draw,” Pekerman said. “There was Chile goalkeeper Claudio Bravo found last week. The new deal sees Griezmann When play got underway both sides attack but were unable to fi nd the fi nal paying the price for a lackadaisical a clear penalty that could have changed Sanchez, who turned Santiago Arias extending his time at the Vicente Calderon produced one of the most entertaining ball to unlock Chile’s defense. start which saw Chile seize control the game. But it wasn’t given.” inside out on the edge of the penalty by an additional year from his previous deal. halfs of the tournament, Colombia at- The Colombians’ job became even with two goals in the fi rst 11 minutes. Fuenzalida was the architect of area before unleashing a fi erce low shot tacking relentlessly in an eff ort to get more daunting in the 57th minute when “It’s one of those nights where you Chile’s opener, racing clear of the Co- which struck the bottom of the post. Petrov to train with Villa back into the match and Chile chasing Aston Villa midfi elder Carlos Sanchez feel a certain amount of unfairness,” lombian defense down the right fl ank The ball rolled into the path of Fuenza- a third goal to kill the game off . was sent off , collecting a second yellow Colombia coach Jose Pekerman said. before crossing to Alexis Sanchez. The lida who had the simplest of fi nishes to ormer Aston Villa captain Stiliyan Colombia had appeals for a penalty for a clumsy challenge on Aranguiz. “We made mistakes and we paid for Arsenal star was beaten to the ball by make it 2-0 after only 11 minutes. FPetrov is to return to training with waved away early in the second half The closing stages of the game de- them in the beginning.” Colombia’s Juan Cuadrado, but the Sunday’s fi nal will be the second the club at the age of 37, four years after when Daniel Torres tumbled over the scended into a niggly encounter, with Pekerman, however, was seething Juventus player could only succeed in time Argentina and Chile have met in retiring following a diagnosis of acute leu- outstretched leg of Gonzalo Jara in the referee Chicas Aguilar of El Salvador over the penalty incident involving heading back to the feet of Aranguiz the tournament. Argentina beat the kaemia. Fans’ favourite Petrov, who played penalty area. eventually issuing eight yellow cards Torres that he felt could have swung who tapped in from close range. Chileans 2-1 in their opening Group D more than 200 times for Villa and earned With Real Madrid star James Rod- and one red. the game in his team’s favour. “In the Four minutes later, Chile dou- earlier this month. more than 100 caps for Bulgaria, has recovered and last month said he wanted to resume his career. “Aston Villa Football Club is pleased to confirm Stiliyan Petrov will take part in pre-season training at first- Copa America stands up well in comparison to Euro team level,” a club statement said. Petrov will join new manager Roberto Reuters two years ago. many countries would send reserve are more diff icult to compare as CON- Copa America have this in their soul,” Di Matteo and the rest of the squad for a Nice, France Its European counterpart in France teams Now, it takes place every four MEBOL said it only currently has them said former Argentina international training camp in Austria as Villa prepare includes Messi’s bitter rival Cristiano years, most recently in Chile last year. for domestic US audiences, rather than Diego Latorre, writing in his country’s for life outside the Premier League after Ronaldo, the other five top teams in the This year’s event is a one-off to cel- worldwide. La Nacion newspaper. being relegated. “Stan will report next he Copa America has often been FIFA rankings and five of the teams who ebrate the century year of the competi- However, it said group stage Latorre added that in the Copa, even week with the rest of the group,” the club dismissed as a poor relation to played the knockout phase in Brazil. tion and has been held jointly by South matches had average an audience of lower-ranked teams such as Haiti had said. Petrov posted a photo of himself Tthe European Championship, so Direct comparisons between the two American soccer body CONMEBOL 3.8 million viewers, despite having to played adventurous football while in looking fit and healthy on Twitter recently, much so that the latter has frequently tournaments are diff icult. The European with its North and Central American compete with the NHL playoff s, the Europe, the tendency among under- saying “getting fit is hard work but nothing been dubbed by the media as “the Championship is regarded as the pin- equivalent CONCACAF. NBA and Major League Baseball. UEFA dogs was to defend in depth. is impossible”. He set up a leukaemia and World Cup minus Brazil and Argentina”. nacle of the continent’s international Brazil’s Neymar was among those said that each of the 51 matches at Euro United States coach Juergen Klins- cancer charity—the Stiliyan Petrov Founda- But a comparison of the two football and has been held on a regular who did not take part, his country 2016 was expected to attract than 130 mann predicted that the Copa could be tion—during his time spent recovering. tournaments, which are being played basis in a tournament form since 1980. preferring to save him for the Olympic million viewers worldwide. more interesting than the Euro follow- simultaneously for the first time since The Copa America, its South football tournament in August. Still, But it is on the field where the ing its expansion from 16 to 24 teams. England great Scholes signs 2004, suggests it may be time to ditch American equivalent, has had a patchy it does not come out unfavourably in 16-team Copa may have come out win- “I almost think you have more qual- up for Indian futsal league the old stereotype. history, although it goes back much a comparison between the two, with ning, producing 90 goals, at an average ity in this Copa America than you have The Copa America, being played further. At one point during the 1980s, attendances almost even. exactly three per match, compared to with a diluted kind of 24-team version anchester United and England great in the United States, features World there was no tournament at all but in- UEFA said that the first 26 matches an average of just 1.92 at the 24-team of the European championship,” said MPaul Scholes has signed a three-year Player of the Year Lionel Messi, five stead teams played two-leg home-and- at the Euro were watched by 1.2 million European championship. the German. “What we’re going to see deal to play in India’s new futsal league of the top 10 teams in the FIFA world away ties all the way to the finals. fans, an average of 46,153, while the “On this side of the Atlantic, most in this Copa America is very special, which starts next month. The inaugural rankings and seven teams who made During the 1990s, it was held every Copa’s average so far is slightly below players think firstly about dribbling and it can easily compete with the edition of Premier Futsal, an indoor variant the knockout stages at the World Cup two years which proved too often and at 45,108. Television viewing figures and the top strikers in the teams at the European Championship.” of football where players use a smaller and less bouncier ball than in the traditional game, will run from July 15-26. “Futsal is a fascinating format that has BOTTOMLINE played a pivotal role in developing the skills of some of the greatest football players,” Scholes, 41, said in the statement released Flight attendant sues Wolfsburg striker Kruse for privacy infringement by the organisers yesterday. “Premier Futsal will be a great way to introduce the sport to cannot be predicted at this According to Bild, Wolfs- AFP burg striker in early 2015, and showed the private photos of India and I’m looking forward to meeting the time,” said the spokesman. burg fi ned Kruse 25,000 euros Berlin had sent him intimate images my client to some of his foot- fans across India who I know are some of Kruse was in March ($27,800) over the incident, of herself. But she has now ball friends. If necessary, I the most passionate in the world.” dropped from the German just days after the Bundesliga requested an injunction for will summon Mr Khedira and Scholes won 11 Premier League titles, as squad for upcoming friend- club slapped him with a simi- German fl ight attend- him to “delete electronic fi les Kruse’s other teammates,” well as two Champions League trophies, lies following a string of off - lar fi ne for leaving 75,000 eu- ant is suing footballer showing her in a state of nu- Alexander Stevens, the wom- during more than 700 appearances for Max Kruse for in- dity or partial nudity”. an’s lawyer, told Bild. pitch indiscretions. ros in the back of a taxi. A English giant Manchester United before While celebrating his 28th Kruse, who is a keen poker fringement of privacy af- Bild added that top Ger- A spokesman at a court in retiring in 2013. Futsal is five aside and is birthday, he had an alterca- player, reportedly forgot the ter he allegedly showed his man players including Sami Lower Saxony confi rmed that played on a hard-court surface. Pre- tion with a journalist at a Ber- huge amount of cash in a teammates images of her in Khedira could be called as a “complaint has been fi led mier Futsal is the latest franchise-based lin nightclub after the player holdall during an early morn- the nude, Bild daily report- witnesses as Kruse allegedly against Max Kruse”, with- sporting competition in India following out giving details of the case. was reportedly unhappy ing taxi ride through Berlin ed yesterday. The plaintiff , showed them the fi lm and the Indian Premier League and Premier “Whether and who would be at having his picture taken last October. He did not make named as Sarah S, became photos in question. “It cannot Badminton League among others. acquainted with the Wolfs- be ruled out that Mr Kruse heard as witnesses in this case without permission. Germany’s Euro 2016 squad. Gulf Times Friday, June 24, 2016 5 TENNIS

FLASHBACK Krajicek owes 1996 triumph to karate, streaker AFP “My fi rst Wimbledon was only 11 roll, because I was afraid to slip and match sight of a blonde female streaker London years after (Bjorn) Borg won his last fall,” Krajicek revealed. charging across centre court one of the Wimbledon. That felt like an unbeliev- “And the other thing was I had no day’s enduring images. “I remember ably long time ago. So to guys who just rhythm. On grass every day I felt like I that one. And I was lucky. There have s Richard Krajicek strolls the started now at Wimbledon I must be was the worst player. Then I read that been two streakers at Wimbledon. One grounds of the All England ancient,” Krajicek said. (Andre) Agassi, when he won Wim- was male and I had the female one. So Club, it doesn’t take long for “Wow, I feel really old if I think about bledon, he hardly practised on grass. I that was good,” Krajicek grinned. the Dutchman’s thoughts to that... But for me, it’s so vivid, the thought I’m going to do that. Although Krajicek relishes his trip driftA back 20 years, to when he upset memories... It doesn’t feel like that long “After 20, 30 minutes on hard courts, down memory lane, his immediate con- Wimbledon’s established order with a ago. It was incredible.” I felt like I’m playing good again. There cern is helping Wawrinka join him on combination of karate and streakers. Krajicek’s knowledge of what it takes was a little park close to Wimbledon Wimbledon’s list of champions. “Stan Two decades after becoming one of to succeed at the All England Club per- with not great courts. But that was good has a feeling I can add to his game and Wimbledon’s most unexpected champi- suaded Wawrinka, a two-time Grand enough for me. It was really important.” it’s the only Grand Slam he never made ons with an astonishing run that includ- Slam champion who has never gone be- An ill-advised comment that 80 per- a semi-fi nal. So, yeah, when somebody ed a rout of defending champion Pete yond the Wimbledon quarter-fi nals, to cent of female tennis players were “fat, is ambitious and he’s got the huge game Sampras and culminated in a fi nal vic- pick the brains of the Dutchman. lazy pigs” had briefl y made Krajicek a he can do it,” Krajicek said. tory over MaliVai Washington, Krajicek And Krajicek—the only player to beat polarising fi gure at Wimbledon. But But, while Krajicek is aware of his is back at the historic venue as a member the great Sampras at Wimbledon be- the storm eventually blew out and fi ve value as a grass-court expert, he knows of Stan Wawrinka’s coaching team. tween 1993 and 2000—has a few counter years later Krajicek was soaking up the which of the growing legion of former Krajicek has been retired for 13 years intuitive methods to suggest as he recalls acclaim of the tennis world after win- players turned coaches would win if but the intervening period hasn’t the secrets of his remarkable 1996 run. ning the only major fi nal of his career. they held a nostalgic reunion these dulled his love aff air with Wimbledon, “Two things I didn’t like about grass- Krajicek’s 6-3, 6-4, 6-3 victory over days. “(Ivan) Lendl would be a close so it is fi tting his new partnership with court tennis. One was moving was dif- Two decades after becoming one of Wimbledon’s most unexpected champions the unheralded Washington showcased match and (Michael) Chang is still so Wawrinka was arranged just in time for fi cult and I remedied that. My physi- with an astonishing run that included a rout of defending champion Pete Sampras the best of the Dutchman’s serve and fi t, but Goran (Ivanisevic) is the best the latest edition of the grass-court otherapist said maybe you should do and culminated in a final victory over MaliVai Washington, Dutchman Richard Kra- volley game, but was too one-sided to be one, especially on grass. He kills me all Grand Slam. some karate. You learn how to fall and jicek is back at the historic venue as a member of Stan Wawrinka’s coaching team. especially dramatic—making the pre- the time,” he laughed.

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Murray happy I don’t need to win to see Brits pack a punch AFP London At the venue where Murray clinched his fi rst tour-level 3 slams a year to be match win 11 years ago, South s Andy Murray Africa-born Edmund gave watched a ferocious a brilliant display to defeat forehand from Kyle French world number 18 Gilles Edmund whistle past Simon in the fi rst round. him,A the world number two In a year in which the world ruefully realised that the future number 68 has already won of British tennis might fi nally two second-tier Challenger content: Federer be in good hands. tournaments, there was more Since the retirements of Tim evidence of Edmund’s vast Henman and Greg Rusedski potential when he matched ‘If the body doesn’t want to do it, if the mind doesn’t want to do it, if my wife in 2007, former Wimbledon Murray blow for blow in the champion Murray has been Queen’s quarter-fi nals. doesn’t want me to do it, if my kids don’t like it, I’ll stop tomorrow. Zero problem’ Britain’s lone standard bearer Keeping Murray on the back in the upper echelons of the foot with his powerful ground- men’s tour. strokes and bullet serve, Ed- But the 29-year-old’s re- mund became the fi rst player cent experiences at Queen’s to take a set off the defending Club suggests a new generation champion in this year’s tour- could be worthy of following in nament. his footsteps just in time for the And although Murray even- start of Wimbledon on Monday. tually recovered to win in three For years, Murray’s compatri- sets, his Davis Cup team-mate ots have been dispatched from had done enough to convince their home Grand Slam in such him of a bright future. a hurry that the tournament is “If you want to get to the top usually not more than 24 hours of the game, you need to have old before the blame game be- weapons and he has them,” gins as the British media turn Murray said. “The forehand, their guns on everyone from the it’s a big shot, but the serve players to the Lawn Tennis As- isn’t slow either. So when he’s sociation and the sporting pub- landing fi rst serves and then lic’s apathetic attitude to tennis getting the fi rst shot of the rally outside Wimbledon. on his forehand, he can dictate Such has been the dearth of a lot of points. quality players to emerge from “I’ve spent a lot of time with Britain since Murray burst him on the practice courts and onto the scene in 2005 that the there’s no reason why he can’t Scot’s Queen’s second round get himself up into the top 20 tie against Aljaz Bedene was in the world. From there you the fi rst time he had played a never know.” fellow Brit since an encounter Murray clearly remains the with Henman a decade earlier. headline act in British tennis Slovenia-born Bedene bat- and it might be too much to ted gamely before succumbing expect Edmund or Bedene to to a straight sets defeat that emulate his success. gave both the world number But for now Murray is just 55 and Murray encouragement pleased by his country’s baby that there is better to come steps in the right direction. from the 26-year-old. Britain can expect its biggest “He serves well, has a nice Wimbledon contingent in sin- forehand and he’s quick,” Mur- gles play for a decade this year, ray said. “He’ll get better. I with at least 13 players guar- don’t think 58 or 50 will be his anteed places in the men’s and best ranking. He’ll go higher women’s draw. than that.” “Obviously it’s not perfect Perhaps even more signifi - just now but it’s better. That’s cantly, the genteel lawns of progress,” Murray said. “I Queen’s, where Murray picked hadn’t played against a Brit for up the oversized trophy for a 10 years, so the fact there are record fi fth time, provided the a few more around or winning setting for 21-year-old Ed- matches on a more consistent mund’s breakthrough moment. basis is positive.”

AFP In an indication of changing times, his Novak Djokovic, the world number one spiking the heavy artillery of Mark Philip- London last-four loss in Stuttgart to Alexander who currently holds all four majors and is poussis in the fi nal. Zverev was his fi rst against a teenager in halfway to the fi rst calendar Grand Slam Since then, he has enjoyed more suc- 10 years. since 1969. cesses than setbacks. Federer won the title ifteen years after famously stun- But the Swiss star is adamant that he Djokovic leads their head-to-head only every year between 2003 and 2007, adding ning Pete Sampras at Wimble- can still be a winner even if clinching an by 23-22, but has claimed their last four two more in 2009 and 2012. don, seven-time champion Roger eighth crown at Wimbledon would make clashes at the majors. Federer hasn’t de- In between, he lost the 2008 fi nal to Federer returns to the All Eng- him the oldest ever champion in south- feated the Serb at a Slam since the Wim- Rafael Nadal in what is widely-regarded landF Club with his career at a crossroads west London, surpassing Arthur Ashe bledon semi-fi nals in 2012. as the fi nest men’s championship match and his confi dence at crisis point. who was a month shy of his 32nd birthday “Is Djokovic now the man to beat? Ab- in history, a fi ve-set epic which ended in The 34-year-old Swiss, holder of a when he lifted the trophy in 1975. solutely. Does he deserve to be where he semi-darkness. record 17 Grand Slam titles, is without a “I think if my movement gets better is? 100 per cent. But is he beatable? Yes, However, there was also a shock sec- major since Wimbledon in 2012 and is en- and then the baseline game improves a of course he is. I beat him three times last ond-round exit to world number 116 during arguably the toughest year of his little bit, I’ll be better on the big points, year,” Federer told the Guardian this week. Sergiy Stakhovsky in 2013. Federer was 31 career. on the return and also in less trouble on Wimbledon has always been Federer’s then and the career obituaries were being Injury forced him to skip the French my own service games,” said Federer. “But home-from-home even if his fi rst two composed. Open, ending a streak of 65 successive I’m okay and I’m pleased. I’m feeling now visits as a pony-tailed contender with a They have been dusted off a few times appearances at the Slams stretching back we’ve got enough time before Wimbledon short fuse and dream one-handed back- since. “Don’t you understand that play- to 1999. to get ready for that.” hand ended in fi rst-round losses. ing tennis is great fun? I don’t need to win He has failed to add to his 88 titles this The fact that Federer has reached the But his fourth-round defeat of seven- three slams a year to be content,” he told year, his longest drought since 2000 and last two Wimbledon fi nals is testament to time winner Sampras in 2001 marked him the Guardian. has suff ered back-to-back semi-fi nal his capacity to surprise both his support- out as the American’s natural heir even if “If the body doesn’t want to do it, if losses in Stuttgart and Halle, both on ers and doubters. 2002 saw a woeful fi rst round exit to Mario the mind doesn’t want to do it, if my wife grass which has been his preferred surface The problem, however, is that he lost Ancic. That blip was forgotten 12 months doesn’t want me to do it, if my kids don’t of domination. both those championship matches to later when he won his fi rst Wimbledon, like it, I’ll stop tomorrow. Zero problem.” Gulf Times 6 Friday, June 24, 2016 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Day’s hectic stretch may or may not include Rio Reuters looking at getting married soon, and ob- for the FedEx (playoff s), then got the the injury. She also missed the cut earlier Springfield, New Jersey viously looking to start a family. I’m past Tour Championship. It’s hard,” said the this month at the second women’s ma- that, but also looking to have some more 28-year-old Australian. jor, the Women’s PGA Championship. babies,” said Day, who has a son Dash But it’s not so gruelling that Day The 27-year-old from Seoul won ustralian World No. 1 Jason and infant Kim with his wife, Ellie. wasn’t looking forward to a trip back the Women’s PGA, formerly the LPGA Day is gearing up for a hectic “I respect his decision because obvi- home to Australia for more golf. “I’m Championship, the past three years, few months on the links but is ously it’s a tough one going from trying planning on playing the World Cup with took the US Women’s Open in 2008 and Astill undecided on whether his to represent your country and trying to Adam Scott,” he added. “I think we’d be 2013, captured the ANA Inspiration in crowded schedule will include the Rio win a gold medal but also understanding a great team for the World Cup. We won 2013 and the Women’s British Open last Olympics. that it’s a life decision that you have to the World Cup last time in Melbourne year. Her chance to defend in Britain, if Day said he would be fi tting his Ca- make just in case there’s a small percent- together (2013) and I’m thinking about she heals in time to compete, will come nadian Open defense in between the age that it will happen. Family for me is playing the Australia Open as well.” from July 28-31 at Woburn in England. British Open and defense of the PGA priority number one, so I’ve got to make Replacing Park in the US Women’s Championship title next month and sure that they’re happy and then prob- Open fi eld will be 17-year-old amateur was looking forward to teaming up with ably I’ll make the decision,” Day added. Third-ranked Park drops Zhang Yunjie of China. She was fi rst al- Adam Scott at the World Cup in Aus- McIlroy joined a number of other big out of US Women’s Open ternate from the China qualifying site and tralia, but was unsure about Rio. names, including Fiji’s Vijay Singh and will make her US Women’s Open debut. Coming on the heels of Northern Charl Schwartzel of South Africa, in even-time major winner Park In- Because no non-exempt players Irishman Rory McIlroy’s announce- withdrawing from August’s Olympic golf SBee, the world number three from won LPGA events between last year’s ment on Wednesday that he was skip- tournament because of the Zika virus. South Korea, withdrew from next US Women’s Open and the May 4 en- ping the Olympics because of health The mosquito-borne virus can cause A file photo of world number one golfer Jason Day with his wife Ellie and kids month’s US Women’s Open on Wednes- try deadline, organisers added to the concerns over the Zika virus, it was the crippling birth defects and, in adults, has day with a nagging left thumb injury. fi eld England’s Hannah Burke, the fi rst fi rst question Day faced from reporters been linked to the neurological disorder postponed because there is “a very low of golf with or without the Olympics. Park withdrew from the July 7-10 event alternate from the England qualifi er. at the PGA Championship Media Day at Guillain-Barre. Last week, the World risk” that holding the event in Brazil will “Play three weeks in a row and then a at CordeValle in San Martin, California, Burke, 28, plays on the Ladies European Baltusrol Golf Club. Health Organisation (WHO) said that cause further spread of the virus. week off , and the Olympics, and then a after pulling out following the fi rst round Tour and will also make her US Wom- “Him (McIlroy) and Erica (Stoll) are the Games did not need to be moved or Day is bracing for an intense stretch week off . (Then) Three weeks in a row from two events last month because of en’s Open debut.

OPINION Azarenka pulls out of Wimbledon with knee injury

AFP London

Tiger laments US ictoria Azarenka will miss Wimbledon with a knee injury which flared up at the French Open, organisers Vannounced yesterday. “Victoria Azarenka has with- drawn from #Wimbledon due to a knee injury. Get well soon, @vika7” Wimbledon posted on twitter. The two-time Australian Open champion and former world number one had to retire from her opening-round tie against Karin Knapp at Roland Garros with the problem. Open mess, predicts The 26-year-old from Belarus, Australian Open champion in 2012 and 2013, was seeded sixth at the All England Club with the third Grand Slam of the year starting on Monday. It is the second time that Azarenka, a two-time Wimble- don semi-finalist, has been forced to withdraw from the grass-court tournament. She suff ered a right knee injury in Wimbledon in 2013 after an awkward fall in the first round and withdrew before the second round of the tournament in exciting Olympics which she was seeded second. The injury has also cast a shadow over her Olympic bid with the Rio Games just six weeks away in August. Azarenka ‘I know they have to try to have each country participate, but I just wish they would won the bronze in women’s singles and gold in the mixed have had more quality of a field similar to what we face in major championships doubles at the London 2012 Olympics. or the World Golf Championships or the Players. I think the Olympics deserve that’ TENNIS

AFP Bethesda, United States Qualifi er Puig iger Woods has predicted that golf’s return to the extends dream Olympics will be a hit even Twithout Rory McIlroy and other top stars while lamenting the Eastbourne run messy penalty issue at the US Open. Speaking on the eve of his charity AFP in the see-saw battle on the foundation’s US PGA event at Con- Eastbourne grass. gressional Country Club, the 14-time “We’re both putting so major champion, whose recovery much pressure on each oth- from back surgery has kept him off the ualifi er Monica er’s serves. It was basically tour for nearly 11 months, weighed in Puig extended her about me staying focused on the sport’s latest issues. fairytale run at the and doing what I had to do, Just hours earlier, world number WTA Eastbourne which is be as aggressive as I four Rory McIlroy said he would not event,Q defeating Kristina could and just keep my head compete at the Rio Olympics, when Mladenovic 7-6 (8/6), 4-6, together. golf returns after a 112-year absence, 6-3 to move into the quar- “There were more dou- because of health concerns over the ter-fi nals yesterday. ble-faults, felt like a million Zika virus, which has been linked to Shortly after the 43rd- to me, but the most impor- birth defects and severe illness. ranked Puerto Rican booked tant thing is I was able to put McIlroy joined an absentee list for her place, top seed and 2008 those behind me and just Brazil that includes world number champion Agnieszka Rad- keep focusing on what I had eight Adam Scott of Australia, wanska was caught out by to do next, which is very im- South Africans Louis Oosthuizen more rain moving onto the portant. I always try to stay and Charl Schwartzel, Fiji’s Vijay south coast. Radwanska was as positive as possible, but it Singh and Aussie Marc Leishman. leading 12th seed Dominika defi nitely does feel good to In addition, top-ranked Ja- Cibulkova 6-4, 2-0 when get this win under my belt son Day, number two Jordan Spi- their quarter-fi nal was forced and move into the semis.” eth and sixth-ranked Rickie Fowler off court at Devonshire Park. With weather threatening have said they are still looking at The world number three to disrupt the programme, what conditions will be like in Rio. Pole was looking to pad a 7-4 two remaining quarter- “It will be a spectacular event career record over former fi nals looked in danger of just because it’s the Olympics,” Australian Open fi nalist Ci- starting. Russia’s Elena Woods said. “It would be better if bulkova from Slovakia. Vesnina, the 2013 cham- we had a more top-heavy fi eld.” Puig, who spent nearly pion, was playing Czech Woods said he would have pre- three hours in defeating 10th seed Karolina Pliskova, ferred a top-50 lineup rather than French Open doubles cham- while British 11th seed and up to four players for a nation from pion Mladenovic, said that Eastbourne local Johanna the top 15 and no more than two mental strength is an im- Konta was playing Russian players for any country beyond that. on the fi fth green. lot of mistakes coming in. I think it ing at a lowly 582. led to relapses and more recovery portant part of her regime. Ekaterina Makarova, winner “I know they have to try to have “It was frustrating to watch how was because it became such an un- Woods refused to rule out any time battling injuries, so Woods “The sports psychology of the event in 2010. each country participate, but I just it was handled,” Woods said. “That nerving situation. It just wasn’t fair future events, knowing that next has adopted the approach of taking part, my team takes care of. Earlier, Britain’s Johanna wish they would have had more being our national championship to anyone. It was awful. DJ didn’t month brings the year’s fi nal two extra time to make certain he is fi t, My coach and everybody on Konta overwhelmed twice quality of a fi eld similar to what we and the history behind it, it de- know how he stood. majors, the British Open and PGA not willing to venture a guess as to my team tries to get me men- Wimbledon champion Petra face in major championships or the served a better handling of the sit- “The rest of the guys didn’t know Championship, thanks to a com- what percentage of his recovery he tally prepared for every single Kvitova, showing off her World Golf Championships or the uation. If you have a rules offi cial what was going on. No one had a pressed schedule to accomodate has completed. type of situation that I’m go- grass-court credentials in Players,” Woods said. “I think the there, I thought it was binding, his clue. Am I one ahead, am I tied, am golf’s return to the Olympics at Rio “I’m driving myself in my train- ing to encounter on the court. an impressive display. Olympics deserve that.” decision. I just didn’t understand I down by one? I’m a little bit feistier after a 112-year absence. ing,” Woods said, saying he works The strength comes from Konta, the 11th seed, let But Woods said he understood how they can say that we’re going than Dustin, so I think I probably “I’m playing it week to week,” in the gym as well as swimming and within, but I think it just gets slip a 5-2 lead in the open- the idea of growing the sport and to take you in, we may or may not would have said a few more things Woods said. “I keep getting physi- cycling and playing soccer with his stronger due to the experi- ing set but stormed back to lesser-ranked players in the fi eld, assess you a penalty, you still have during the round.” cally better. I hope everything children. “I need to pretty much ence I have had in the past. win 5-7, 6-4, 6-0 on centre giving non-dominant golf nations six holes to go. I just don’t see how Woods further said he is “ex- clicks in and I can do it sooner do anything off the golf course and I’ve had had several matches court by the seaside on Eng- a chance to cheer heroes as well. that was appropriate.” cited” about his rehabilitation rather than later.” then do anything I would do on the where I have been the softer land’s Sussex coast. “To have players that aren’t ranked Woods was as upset for the con- progress following back surgery Woods has not won a major since golf course.” one and I have caved to the Having steadied herself very high still being able to com- tenders having to guess at whether but the 14-time major champion the 2008 US Open after battling a Woods said his past injuries give pressure. But now I have to win the second set, Konta pete in the Olympics, I think it’s they needed to gamble or play gave no sign he might play in July’s number of knee, leg and back inju- him experience to cope with the some of these matches under breezed through the decider great for Brazil,” he added. safely on certain holes as US Golf two major championships. ries. At times he was unable to even mental aspects of coming back on my belt (from diffi cult situa- as fi fth seed Kvitova, wear- Olympic teams will be set based Association offi cials botched their Woods, 40, has not played com- hit the ball. “I’ve gotten better,” the the tour and suff ering lacklustre tions) and I have been able to ing a strapping on her left on world rankings two weeks chance to get the call correct and petitively since last August, then American added. “I’ve been able to results on his immediate return. pull it out,” Puig said. thigh, faded. from Monday, with only 20 of the timely, something for which they had surgery in September, the lat- hit shots. I have good distance off “It’s going to take a little bit of Puig also made it to the The 25-year-old will play world’s current top 50 set to com- later apologised. est in a series of injuries and dis- the tee and that’s a positive. I have tuning up,” Woods said. “Hope- Sydney fi nal in January from either Andrea Petkovic or pete. The lowest ranked player “No one understood where they tractions away from the game. enough speed now. More speed is fully not too long.” a qualifying start, facing Ekaterina Makarova in the in the fi eld of 60 would be Italy’s were in the tournament so that de- “I’m still progressing. I’m getting what I need.” Woods spoke on the eve of the two-time grand slam win- quarter-fi nals. Their match Nino Bertasio at 332, with 26 play- termines what you are going to do. stronger. I’m excited about what Woods has played full 18-hole PGA National at Congression- ner Svetlana Kuznetsova in could not be completed as ers from outside the top 100. Am I going to challenge the fl ag? has transpired so far,” Woods said. rounds and on consecutive days but al Country Club, the suburban the title match. rain arrived late in the day. Woods watched on television as Am I going to play conservative? “It’s about trying to recover for the wants to get to the point where he Washington event he hosts that Puig survived nine dou- “Both of us were play- Dustin Johnson won the US Open So much depends on scenarios and next day. I need to get in golf shape.” can play 36 holes in a day or fi ve or benefi ts his charity foundation. ble-faults and ten aces from ing at a really good level in last Sunday despite being told on where you stand to dictate how you “I’m trying to get back as fast as I six consecutive days with no issues. “I just wish I could be out there,” her opponent, breaking six parts and struggling to keep the 12th tee he might be assessed a play,” Woods said. can,” added Woods, a former world “I’m not quite there,” Woods said. Woods rued. “It’s tough not play- times but forced to save 18 of that up in others,” British penalty for a ball movement issue “I just saw guys were making a number one who is now languish- Past premature comebacks have ing in your own event.” the 23 break points she faced number one Konta said. Gulf Times Friday, June 24, 2016 7 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Simmons, Ingram expected to go 1-2 in NBA draft Ben Simmons and Brandon Ingram are the consensus cream of the crop in NBA Draft, Cleveland celebrates making the Philadelphia 76ers and Los An- geles Lakers the likely winners of the night that can shape league futures. The 76ers own the first choice and reports have surfaced that they have settled on Simmons, a 6-foot-10 power forward from Louisiana State University, who can grab a defensive rebound and lead the break with Cavs with huge NBA his great passing touch. “He’s got an NBA body and he’s got some skills that are NBA skills, definable NBA skills,” 76ers president of basketball opera- tions Bryan Colangelo said. “When you put that size and skill together, it’s generally a pretty good package.” The Sixers have made a fetish of collect- victory parade ing promising young talent with high draft picks from poor regular season records, but through injuries and a lack of veteran pres- ‘What’s going on right now is still unreal. You guys should be thanking all the guys up here to be honest’ ence on the team have struggled to improve on the court. Philadelphia also hold the 24th and 26th AFP picks of the first round. Cleveland Selecting second are the Los Angeles Lak- ers, who begin their post-Kobe Bryant era with the expected selection of Duke Univer- owntown Cleveland was sity’s Ingram, who is a scorer from the small a sea of wine and gold forward position with a good jump shot and Wednesday as hundreds of strong moves to the hoop. Dthousands of jubilant fans There are a batch of other highly regarded gave a hero’s welcome to NBA super- prospects that follow, though they seem a star LeBron James and his Cavaliers notch below Simmons and Ingram as pro- teammates. jected impact players. The team brought home the city’s The next tier of incoming talent include fi rst major sports title in more than shooting guards Jamal Murray of Kentucky, 50 years — since the Browns took Buddy Hield of Oklahoma and Jaylen Brown the National Football League title of California. in 1964 — ending the longest such The top point guard from the college ranks drought for any American city. is projected to be Kris Dunn of Providence, Confetti in the team’s colours while highly touted power forwards include rained down as the parade snaked Dragan Bender of Israel and Marquese through the city, with the NBA Chriss of Washington. championship trophy in a black The Boston Celtics, who own eight picks in pickup truck and team members Thursday’s two-round draft, have the No. travelling in separate vehicles. 3 overall pick, and may be shopping that The Cavaliers, led by series MVP selection to add some NBA-ready players. James, pulled off the greatest come- Gonzaga’s 6-foot-10 forward Domantas back in NBA Finals history to de- Sabonis, son of former Lithuanian Olympian throne the Golden State Warriors, and NBA star Arvidas Sabonis, is another winning Game 7 on Sunday 93-89 to coveted player. complete an improbable rally from a The top center in the draft is likely to be 3-1 defi cit to take the title. 7-foot-1 Jakob Poeltl of Austria, who was a Many fans wore team jerseys — 23 second-team all-American during his college for James or 2 for Kyrie Irving were days at Utah, where he averaged 17.2 points the most popular — and waved team and 9.1 rebounds a game. fl ags, some of them dancing with Order of first-round selections in the draft joy. 1 Philadelphia James — who turned in a perform- 2 Los Angeles Lakers ance for the ages in the Finals, seal- 3 Boston (From Brooklyn) ing his place in the pantheon of the 4 Phoenix sport’s greats — stood atop the con- 5 Minnesota vertible in which he was traveling, 6 New Orleans extending his arms to the crowd. 7 Denver (From New York) “King” James also documented 8 Sacramento the festivities with his smartphone, 9 Toronto (From Denver via New York) while Irving hopped off his pickup 10 Milwaukee truck, high-fi ving fans and gestur- 11 Orlando ing to the crowd. 12 Utah In a moment fi lled with symbol- 13 Phoenix (From Washington) ism at Wednesday’s post-parade 14 Chicago rally, James accepted the MVP Cleveland Cavaliers Lebron James celebrates with the crowd during a parade to celebrate winning the 2016 NBA Championship in Cleveland, Ohio. (Reuters) 15 Denver (From Houston) trophy from Jim Brown, a legen- 16 Boston (From Dallas) dary running back who helped the In an interview during the parade, ter view. congested, and hotels were fully The victory was a welcome occa- 17 Memphis Browns win in 1964. James told ESPN he had no plans to Two theatres rescheduled per- booked. sion to celebrate for a city that has 18 Detroit “What’s going on right now is still leave Cleveland next season. formances due to the large crowds, There was almost no visible green had little opportunity to do so. The 19 Denver (From Portland) unreal,” James said. and a local courthouse even planned lawn at the city’s downtown open Rust Belt town has suff ered eco- 20 Indiana “I heard a lot of ‘Thank You, LeB- Day off in Cleveland? to reschedule some hearings, should fi eld known as The Mall, where the nomic decline. A recent economic 21 Atlanta ron,’” James said. “You guys should Much of Cleveland — home to the the parties involved be unable to at- crowd gathered for the post-parade study labelled it the “most dis- 22 Charlotte be thanking all the guys up here to Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and soon tend. rally. tressed large city in America.” 23 Boston be honest,” he said, pointing to his to host the Republican National Police reported only one major in- Cleveland has also been grap- 24 Philadelphia (From Miami via Cleveland) teammates. Convention in July — was engulfed cident — a shooting just blocks from ‘The whole city needed this’ pling with the controversial fatal 25 Los Angeles Clippers James averaged NBA Finals highs in celebration, with reports of local the rally site in which one woman When James returned to the police shooting in November 2014 26 Philadelphia (From Oklahoma City via of 29.7 points, 11.3 rebounds and 8.9 employers giving workers the day suff ered a non-fatal leg wound. Cavaliers, he pledged to bring home of 12-year-old Tamir Rice, who was Denver and Cleveland) assists and led the way with more off . Cleveland’s public transit system a trophy to Cleveland — home to playing with a toy gun. 27 Toronto than two steals and blocked shots Revellers lined up on the streets off ered free parking to parade goers, baseball, basketball and football “The whole city needed this,” said 28 Phoenix (From Cleveland via Boston) a game as well — not to mention for the best spots from the early but announced early in the day that teams and their long-suff ering fans parade goer Anthony Shaw. “We re- 29 San Antonio his pinpoint passing and defensive morning hours. Some even climbed lots were at capacity. The Cleveland — and this year, he made good on his ally needed it to bring us up a little 30 Golden State swagger. light poles and bus shelters for a bet- airport’s parking lots were similarly promise. bit.”

FOCUS Bulls send Rose to Knicks in six-man deal

AFP tore the meniscus in his right New Knicks coach Jeff Hor- New York knee early in the 2013-14 cam- nacek takes over a team that fi n- paign. ished 32-50 last season, a third Rose averaged 16.4 points and consecutive losing campaign. hicago Bulls play- 4.7 assists for the Bulls last sea- Calderon, who turns 35 in maker Derrick Rose, son. September, was New York’s a former NBA Most “I wish him the best of health starting point guard and aver- Valuable Player nagged for the remainder of his career aged 7.6 points and a career- byC knee injuries for years, was and I want to personally thank worst 4.1 assists per game last traded to the New York Knicks him for everything he did on season. on Wednesday in a six-player the court and in the community Grant, 23, added 5.6 points deal. during his time with the Chica- and 2.3 assists a game in 2015- The move came on the eve of go Bulls,” Reinsdorf said. 16 while Lopez, 28, averaged the NBA Draft, when the Knicks The Bulls were also linked 10.3 points and 7.3 rebounds last will look for more help after to trade talk involving guard season. missing the playoff s last season. Jimmy Butler and the Boston The Atlanta Hawks trad- Rose, fellow guard Justin Celtics and Minnesota Tim- ed point guard Jeff Teague to Holiday and a second-round berwolves, but that is less likely the Indiana Pacers as part of 2017 NBA Draft pick were sent with Rose being moved. a three-team deal that sends to New York by the Bulls in ex- The Knicks add backcourt point guard George Hill from change for center Robin Lopez depth with Holiday, 27, who Indiana to the Utah Jazz, who and guards Jerian Grant and Jose averaged 4.5 points and 1.7 re- will send the 12th pick in Thurs- Calderon. bounds a game last season after day’s NBA draft to Atlanta. “Knowing Derrick as I do coming to Chicago in a deal with Teague, 27, averaged 15.7 makes this trade a hard one,” Atlanta. points and 5.9 assists last season Bulls chairman Jerry Reinsdorf Knicks president Phil Jackson in leading the Hawks to a 48-34 said. “Everyone knows him as says his club should make the record, saying in a now-deleted the local kid who became MVP playoff s next season with the Instagram post that he played for his hometown team, but not combination of a healthy Rose the entire season with a torn everyone got to know him like I alongside Carmelo Anthony and knee tendon. did. While he is a terrifi c bas- rising star Kristaps Porzingis. Atlanta was swept in the ketball player, he is an even bet- The trio should help the playoff s by eventual NBA cham- ter person with a tremendous Knicks in their triangle off en- pion Cleveland for the second heart.” sive scheme, one used famously season in a row. Oft-injured Rose, 27, tore his by Jackson in his days with the Hill, 30, averaged 12.1 points left anterior cruciate knee liga- Michael Jordan-led Bulls and and 3.4 assists with the Pacers ment in the 2012 playoff s and the Los Angeles Lakers. last season. Gulf Times 8 Friday, June 24, 2016 SPORT

MLB NHL Las Vegas gets expansion team, Puig brings it home Quebec City bid deferred

AFP lack of geographical balance New York — many more teams in the to cap late rally in Eastern portion of the United States and Canada — plus a S gambling haven Las belief it would be better not to Vegas was awarded try and bring in multiple teams its fi rst team in a at once and the dollar devalua- major professional tion issue made this the wrong sportsU league Wednesday, time for going into Quebec when the National Hockey City. Dodgers’ victory League granted the Nevada Las Vegas marks the fi rst city an expansion team that NHL expansion team since will take the ice next year. 1997, when the league agreed ‘Everybody’s the next somebody. I was the next Hank Aaron. You see what happened’ The NHL Board of Gover- to add teams on a staggered nors unanimously voted to basis in Nashville, Atlanta, approve the granting of the Columbus and Minnesota. The league’s 31st franchise during Atlanta team relocated to Win- a meeting in Las Vegas while nipeg. Those groups paid only also voting to defer an expan- $80mn to enter the NHL. sion application from Quebec “In the fall of 2017, when we City, citing in part the devalu- celebrate the 100th birthday ation of the Canadian dollar as of the NHL, we will do so as a a factor in the decision. league of 31 teams,” NHL com- Billionaire Bill Foley will missioner Gary Bettman said, own the Las Vegas club, which saying the league was “truly will play in a new 17,368-seat excited that an NHL franchise arena that opened just months will be the fi rst major profes- ago. sional sports team in this vi- Foley and other investors brant, growing, global desti- will pay a $500mn expansion nation city.” fee that will be distributed The Las Vegas franchise will equally among the other 30 join the NHL’s Pacifi c divi- NHL teams. sion in 2017-18 alongside Los The Quebecor group, which Angeles, Anaheim, San Jose, also hoped to put a new team in Phoenix, Calgary, Edmonton a new state-of-the-art arena, and Vancouver. was frustrated in its dream to Existing clubs will be able to return NHL hockey to the Ca- protect nine or 10 players in an nadian city after the Quebec expansion draft next season to Nordiques moved in 1995 to fi ll out roster spots for the new Denver and became the Colo- club. rado Avalanche, breaking even The Las Vegas team will se- more hearts in Quebec City by lect no worse than sixth over- winning the Stanley Cup the all in the fi rst round of next very next season. June’s NHL Draft and then In a statement, the NHL said select third in each subsequent club owners concluded that a round.

Kane beats Crosby to Hart Trophy

Chicago Blackhawks forward Patrick Kane became the first American-born player to win the Hart Memorial Tro- phy as the NHL’s Most Valu- able Player on Wednesday. Kane, who enjoyed a career- Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Yasiel Puig (R) celebrates with manager Dave Roberts (L) and third base coach George Lombard (C) after scoring against the Washington best season, beat out Pitts- Nationals on an error after a single in the ninth inning at Dodger Stadium. The Dodgers defeated the Nationals 4-2. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports burgh’s Sidney Crosby and Dallas’ Jamie Benn to receive By Zach Helfand said after the Dodgers won their “I don’t have any thoughts,” He expended too many pitches Stephen Strasburg. Next, they the award at a ceremony in Los Angeles Times sixth in a row, rallying after Wil- Roberts said. again – a season-high 94 over fi gure, it will be Lucas Giolito, Las Vegas. Kane produced encies and were not backed son Ramos’ homer in the eighth He manoeuvred past the is- fi ve innings. the 21-year-old terrorising hit- 46 goals and 60 assists for up by credible evidence. inning off Pedro Baez gave the sue but noted that the Dodgers’ He gave up two doubles in the ters in double A. Chicago, who went out in the Also on Wednesday, Washing- asiel Puig rounded fi rst Nationals the lead. injured pitchers, Hyun-Jin Ryu second, to Joe Ross and Danny At the moment, they’re opti- first round of the playoff s this ton goaltender Braden Holtby base and slowed up, Julio Urias spun another con- and Brandon McCarthy, have Espinosa, to plate both of his mistic about Ross, 23. season. “We have the best grabbed the Vezina Trophy taking a peak toward the fi dent, useful, short outing, but made Urias’ presence more cru- runs. And he had no decision, so Also young: Corey Seager, 22, fans, whether at home or on as the league’s top netminder. outfi eld. His last season the awkward situation that been cial. The Dodgers hope to have he’ll remain winless at 0-2. who was responsible for Ross’ the road. It’s almost like every Holtby tied Martin Brodeur’s andY a half had been forgettable, percolating with each of Urias’ both starters back soon. But overall, he gave up fi ve second run when he tattooed a game is a home game,” Kane NHL record for most wins scarred by injury, stifl ed at the previous three starts continued Urias said he’ll accept what- hits, one walk, struck out six and sinker in the third inning to ex- said. Kane received 121 first- in a season with 48, and plate. to brew. ever role the team gives him but again gave the Dodgers a chance tend the Dodgers’ home-run place votes and appeared on finished with a 2.20 goals- Here at least, he’d been useful. Manager Dave Roberts ac- recalled last season, when he was to win. streak to 13, their longest since each of the 150 Hart ballots against average and.922 save With the Los Angeles Dodgers knowledged it Wednesday after- given a break to undergo cos- The giddiness attending Urias’ 2001. cast for 1,395 points. percentage. He edged Los down a run in the ninth inning, noon, sitting in the dugout. The metic surgery on his eye. When ascension to the major leagues Crosby, named on 145 ballots, Angeles’ Jonathan Quick and with Howie Kendrick on fi rst, problem is this: Urias will make he returned, his former rhythm did not invade the visiting club- RESULTS including 11 first-place tallies, Tampa Bay’s Ben Bishop for Puig had singled. He tapped at least one more start, but soon eluded him. house before the game. In the Miami 3 Atlanta 0 finished second with 800 the honor. Kings defenseman his helmet into place, and then, enough, the Dodgers will shunt “The truth is, yes, it was dif- manager’s offi ce, Dusty Baker, NY Yankees 9 Colorado 8 points, followed by Benn with Drew Doughty earned the suddenly, his arms fl ew, his hips him away for a midseason res- fi cult,” Urias said. “But the de- the former Dodger, was asked NY Mets 4 Kansas City 3 637. Kane had a troubled Norris Trophy for top defend- fl ew out, his legs churned. pite. The Dodgers hope the unu- cision is the team’s. If the team about the comparisons between Houston 3 LA Angels 2 start to the season after the er after helping Los Angeles In the outfi eld, the ball had sual strategy will save his arm tells me I’m going to take a break, the 19-year-old and Fernando St. Louis 7 Chicago Cubs 2 27-year-old was accused finish third in the league in skipped through Michael Tay- from damage. I’ll be fi ne with that. If the team Valenzuela. Milwaukee 4 Oakland 2 of raping a woman at his goals-against per game. He lor’s legs. Now, it was a race. The only problem is, Urias is tells me I’m going to continue “Everybody’s the next some- Toronto 5 Arizona 2 off season lakeshore home in also added 51 points on the In those, Puig still excels. He making himself essential. pitching, I’ll be prepared for body,” Baker said. “I was the next Baltimore 7 San Diego 2 Hamburg, a Buff alo suburb, in season. Washington’s Barry fl ew past second, tore around “We need him right now,” that.” Hank Aaron. You see what hap- San Francisco 7 Pittsburgh 6 the early hours of August 2. Trotz won the Jack Adams third, and belly fl opped into Roberts said. “These are valu- Urias was less than domi- pened.” Detroit 5 Seattle 1 In November, a county pros- Award for best coach. The home plate. It wasn’t close. Puig able starts for our club and so it nant but more than competent The reporters laughed, but Chicago White Sox 8 Boston 6 ecutor said Kane would not Capitals won the Presidents’ scored the winning run in the makes sense for him to be here as against a fi rst-place ballclub. He Baker’s message was this: Prove Cleveland 6 Tampa Bay 1 face rape charges because Trophy with 120 points and 4-3 win over the Washington long as he can be.” overpowered at times, such as it. The Nationals have had their Texas 6 Cincinnati 4 the accusations made by the set a franchise record for Nationals. Roberts was asked about the when he struck out Bryce Harper own experience with “the-next- Minnesota 6 Philadelphia 5 woman contained inconsist- total wins with 49. “It was a little bit crazy,” Puig wisdom of the shutdown. twice on curveballs. somebody” pitcher. First it was LA Dodgers 4 Washington 3

SPOTLGIHT Top prospect Matthews takes unique road to draft

AFP holds its annual entry-draft in decided to play in Switzerland in 2013 opened an investigation tion suit, wrote the Washing- Lausanne Buff alo where its teams will se- instead of with the Everett Sil- into the WHL, looking at wheth- ton labour board, asking: “why lect the game’s best young tal- vertips of the Western Hockey er teams were breaking the law should the business of operating ent. The Toronto Maple Leafs, a League (WHL), who controlled by not paying players minimum a hockey team in the WHL be magine someone off ered you cash-rich franchise, choose fi rst. his amateur rights, hockey ex- wage. The teams said their play- exempt from paying minimum $50-$100 a week to do a job Experts agree they will almost perts questioned whether he had ers are trainees and not entitled wages to kids?” in Everett, Washington and certainly choose Matthews, a hurt his NHL draft prospects by to compensation. The vast majority of amateurs then someone else off ered six-foot-two (189 cm) 18-year- straying from the standard path. In a preliminary fi nding, never make it to the NHL and, Iyou $400,000 to do the same job old centre from Scottsdale, Those doubts will likely be put Washington investigators found having left secondary school to for a year in Zurich. Arizona. Based on recent prece- to rest at Friday’s draft. that justifi cation hollow and said play hockey, sometimes have lit- That was a choice facing the dent, Matthews will likely sign a But Matthews’ case is also teenage players were “employ- tle to fall back on. Following in elite American ice hockey teen- three-year contract worth more part of a raging debate over com- ees” and entitled to fair pay. Matthews’ path will not be an age phenom Auston Matthews than $10 million. pensation for minor players. Before those conclusions were option for every skilled amateur. last year. He chose Zurich, in an Glenn Gumbley, a labour ac- fi nalised, Washington lawmak- Swiss teams have limited spots unprecedented decision that Trailblazer? tivist who has fought for fair ers passed a bill in May 2015 de- for foreign players and most are may have broader consequences Before being drafted into the pay for amateurs, noted that with it, honestly, it’s just a little claring that WHL players under taken up by proven profession- for the sport. NHL, North American teenag- the WHL and its partner, the ‘Just a little bonus’ bonus to do what you love and 20 should not be considered em- als. Elite talents like Matthews On Friday, Matthews will ers of Matthews’ calibre have in Ontario Hockey League (OHL), After a game on a frigid Janu- get paid for it,” he added, assert- ployees, terminating the child are rare. Also, some American take a step towards securing a the past exclusively played in top have an interest in ensuring that ary night in Lausanne, in which ing that he had no issues with rights probe. The WHL, OHL teenagers could be daunted by multi-million contract that will amateur leagues on their conti- teenage stars like Matthews stay Matthews scored a key goal, he the WHL or its pay structure. and a partner league in Quebec the prospect of moving across make the salary he earned last nent, the traditional stepping- in North America. told AFP that salary played no But the weekly stipend that are also facing a class action the Atlantic, away from family. season with the Zurich Lions of stone to NHL riches. Asked how the WHL and OHL part in his decision to come to Everett would have paid Mat- lawsuit from players demanding As Matthews told AFP, having the Swiss professional hockey Those amateur leagues off er a might respond to Matthews Zurich. “I was kind of decid- thews was not just miniscule millions of dollars in back pay his mother Ema with him in Zu- league look like meal money. stipend to meet basic expenses choice of playing in Switzerland, ing between Everett and here compared to his Zurich salary, it on grounds that they worked for rich was key to his survival. North America’s National but players are in eff ect unpaid, Gumbley said: they may try “to and fortunately it worked out to was almost deemed illegal. free through their late teens. “I don’t know what I would Hockey League (NHL), the even though the teams are for- ensure that instances like this come over here,” he said. Washington State’s Depart- Toronto lawyer Ted Charney, eat if she wasn’t here,” he said. sport’s premier organisation, profi t ventures. When Matthews are prevented in the future.” Money, “had nothing to do ment of Labor and Industries who is leading the class ac- “Cooking is not my go to.” Gulf Times Friday, June 24, 2016 9 SPORT

PREVIEW Cliff hanger expected to decide Boks-Ireland series A third test cliff hanger is expected as Ireland stand on the threshold of sporting history and battered South Africa seek to snatch a series victory from the brink of disaster in Port Elizabeth tomorrow. Confi dent England A tiring Ireland play a 17th international of the season as they bring their campaign to a close with a decisive final test at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium with the series tied at 1-1. Ireland recorded a sensational first away success over South Af- rica in the opening test at Newlands and were 16 points up with 20 minutes left in Saturday’s second test before the Springboks launched a rousing comeback to snatch victory 32-26. It has left Ireland needing to dip back into their mental reserves target whitewash - just like the last-gasp heroics of the Ireland football team at the European Championship on Wednesday -- to produce a final push as they stand on the brink of a much sought-after series victory against one of the southern hemisphere Rugby powers. “I’m not going to try and motivate them too hugely,” said Ireland coach Joe Schmidt in the build-up to the test at the 46,000-seater stadium in the coastal city, built for football’s 2010 World Cup. “They are a great bunch of players and they of Wallabies will motivate themselves. They know what’s at stake.” Irish eyes might be watering at the possibility of a significant achievement but South Africa are likely to be as motivated in ‘We want to be the best team in the world and we want to win the series 3-0’ their bid to avoid the ignominy of a home series defeat. It has been an unconvincing start for new coach Allister Co- etzee, who could hardly contain his delight last Saturday after his side suddenly emerged from one-and-a-half matches of mediocrity to producing a storming finish and steamroller their opponents. “It was actually one of those special moments in a coach’s career where you’ve been looking down a barrel and the players turn it around like that. Just the belief that was still alive in the team, it was special,” said Coetzee. Both sides have experienced players missing through injury as Robbie Henshaw and Jared Payne sit out for Ireland, and South Africa play without colossus Duane Vermeulen at number eight. But their absence is expected to go unnoticed in what both camps feel will be a no-holds-barred contest.

Bill shadow hovers over All Blacks selections The return of cross-code star Blacks punish them. Sonny Bill Williams for the “We’ve just got to keep up Rugby Championship has that pressure and stop shoot- added intrigue to the third Test ing ourselves in the foot by against Wales with All Blacks making some of those costly coach Steve Hansen overhaul- errors,” he said yesterday. ing the New Zealand line-up. With the All Blacks 2-0 up Risk and reward ahead of tomorrow’s third and Hansen has changed five of final Test in Dunedin, Hansen his starting line-up with Elliot spiced up the dead rubber by Dixon making his debut and rejigging almost every combi- centre George Moala getting a nation of his match-day 23 and second cap 11 months after his including three debutants. debut against Samoa. And he confirmed his tinkering There are seven changes on with the midfield is directly the bench with the inclusion of connected to double World uncapped flanker Liam Squire Cup winner Williams rejoin- and prop Ofa Tu’ungafasi. ing the squad for the Rugby With the series won, Hansen Championship after he com- described his revamp as “risk pletes his bid for an Olympic and reward”, saying the time England coach Eddie Jones (right) and captain Dylan Hartley during a press conference in Sydney yesterday. (AFP) medal with the Sevens team was right to blood new talent. in August. “We need to find “If they can play at the high AFP Saints fl anker Teimana Harrison Simmons at lock and has powerful the All Blacks on the back of Teams (15-1) out about some of these guys. quality we’re expecting them Melbourne replacing No.7 James Haskell, Fijian-born winger Taqele Naiya- their eight-match unbeaten run We’ve got Sonny coming back to play then it bodes well for who has a foot injury. ravoro among his replacements. under hard taskmaster Jones. Australia: Israel Folau; Dane after the sevens so obviously us,” he said. But the Wallabies have re- But Jones is demanding Eng- Haylett-Petty, Tevita Kurid- one of this group has to go,” The promotion of Moala, who ngland coach Eddie jigged their battered team as ‘We want to be the best’ land approach the ‘dead rubber’ rani, Matt Toomua, Rob Horne; said Hansen. is in the squad only because Jones yesterday said they fi ght to avoid a 3-0 series Cheika has vowed to keep the Test the same away they did in Bernard Foley, Nick Phipps; Sean Under the roofed Dunedin sta- Charlie Ngatai has concussion he was targeting a 3-0 wipeout - after winning all but Wallabies’ attacking approach the other games in the series. McMahon, Michael Hooper, dium, with a fast track assured, issues, adds to the midfield whitewash of Australia three home games against Eng- which has been negated by Eng- “We want to be the best team Scott Fardy; Rob Simmons, Will Hansen wants to complete puzzle. asE a “dress rehearsal” for the land before this tour. land’s forwards-dominated game in the world and we want to win Skelton; Sekope Kepu, Stephen the Wales whitewash while Ryan Crotty has been named next World Cup. Jones and his Six Nations and emphasis on high kicks. the series 3-0,” he said. Moore (capt), James Slipper. letting Rugby Championship at inside centre for all three Jones said the 2019 World Cup champions have held all the aces “Saturday’s match against “If we want to be the best team Replacements (one to be omit- rivals South Africa, Australia Tests with Malakai Fekitoa in Japan was the ultimate goal so far, winning the opening two England is a real opportunity for in the world, we’ll be think- ted): Tatafu Polota-Nau, Scott and Argentina see the depth of outside him in the first two for his England team, which he games 39-28 in Brisbane and the Wallabies to show the char- ing 3-0. We know Australia Sio, Greg Holmes, Adam Cole- talent he has available. and Seta Tamanivalu coming has steered to eight straight wins 23-7 last week in Melbourne acter I know they have on the will come back, they’re a well- man, Dean Mumm, Wycliff Palu, Wales coach Warren Gatland, off the bench. including a fi rst series victory in Jones, a former Wallabies fi eld, for all our fans to see,” he coached, driven team. So we’re Nick Frisby, Christian Leali’ifano, meanwhile, has stayed as loyal With Moala getting the nod, Australia. coach, has vowed no let-up in in- said yesterday. anticipating quite a feisty en- Taqele Naiyaravoro. as he possibly could to his Hansen added to the intrigue “We’ve treated this week like tensity and is urging his England “We will continue to play counter in Sydney.” bruised and battered tourists, by naming wing Waisake a dress rehearsal for the (2019) team to go all out to sweep Aus- Rugby in our attacking style Australia will have to fi nd a England: Mike Brown; Anthony only replacing props Gethin Naholo as centre cover. World Cup because that what tralia in their pursuit of becom- and we’ll be aiming to do it with way to counter England’s strong Watson, Jonathan Joseph, Owen Jenkins and Samson Lee with Of the starting 15, the only we’re always building towards,” ing the top side in world Rugby. more consistent quality than we set-piece and tidy up their disci- Farrell, Jack Nowell; George Rob Evans and Tomas Francis. stable partnership involves Jones said. “To win a World Cup His counterpart Michael Cheika, have in the fi rst two matches.” pline and errors under the tour- Ford, Ben Youngs; Billy Vunipola, Jenkins is among six play- locks Brodie Retallick and Sam you have to win three big games a former teammate at Sydney’s It has been a dramatic reversal ists’ concerted pressure. Teimana Harrison, Chris Rob- ers sidelined by injury since Whitelock. Charlie Faumuina in a row - we’ve won two so this Randwick club, has reshuffl ed his of fortunes for Cheika’s men Toomua will help inject some shaw; George Kruis, Maro Itoje; the tour began but Gatland gets the chance to start a third game is the most important side in a bid to prevent another after the Wallabies reached the unpredictability into the back- Dan Cole, Dylan Hartley (capt), believes Wales are closing the Test at prop, Beauden Barrett game we’ll play all year. It will be demoralising defeat. fi nal of last year’s World Cup line with his kicking and give Mako Vunipola. gap on the world champions. replaces the injured Aaron a good indication of where we He has turned to the play- against New Zealand in London more support to fl y-half Bernard Replacements: Jamie George, The only problem, he said, Cruden at fly-half and Julian are as a team.” making skills of Matt Toomua and went into the current series Foley, who has up to now been Matt Mullan, Paul Hill, Joe was that Wales tend to switch Savea, dropped for the second England made only one team at inside-centre, brought in the ranked second in the world. the Wallabies’ key point of at- Launchbury, Courtney Lawes, off for five or 10 minutes in a Test, earns a recall on the wing change for Saturday’s game hulking Will Skelton to partner England now have leapfrogged tack along with fullback Israel Jack Cliff ord, Danny Care, Elliot game and that’s when the All to replace Naholo. in Sydney with Northampton the recalled lineout general Rob Australia to number two behind Folau. Daley.

MOTORCYCLING Rossi fresh and ready for Dutch Grand Prix test

AFP and very uncertain. “In Barcelona we had the standings after his Barcelona mishap. Assen, Netherlands a good race and also the test went well. The fi ve-time world champion has had We just have to stay focused, try to work mixed results in the Dutch race, surpris- in the best way possible and see what hap- ingly with just a single win in 2010. resh from his second win of the pens.” He is still well-placed though to end his MotoGP season Valentino Rossi Honda’s Marquez, 23, has won four eight-season spell at Yamaha with anoth- heads to one of his favourite cir- times at Assen, including once in MotoGP er title, before leaving to join Ducati. cuits this weekend eager to pile on his way to a second successive title two “Barcelona was a great pity. I knew it moreF pressure on championship leader years ago. He struggled slightly last season was going to be a tough race especially af- Marc Marquez. against the pace of the two Yamahas and ter feeling that the tyres were struggling The decorated Italian is confi dent of fi nished the championship in third place, after fi ve or six laps, but then the crash sealing an eighth victory around the As- but now looks primed to make it three rid- ruined everything,” Lorenzo lamented. sen track in Sunday’s Dutch Grand Prix, ers’ crowns in four years. “Now we need to forget the incident and to go with his triumph in Barcelona last “I’m happy that the time to go racing try to fi ght again in Assen. Racing in Hol- time out. at Assen has arrived, as it’s a track I really land is always a kind of bittersweet feel- Rossi narrowly missed out on a 10th enjoy and, importantly, the fi rst in a series ing. world title last season to Yamaha team- of circuits that suit my riding style quite “It’s a track I love but on the other hand mate Jorge Lorenzo, but his Catalan Grand well,” Marquez said. I’ve experienced both good and bad re- Prix success pulled him to within 22 points “Step by step, we’re making some small sults.” of Marquez and just 12 points of Lorenzo, improvements to the bike, so in Assen Frenchman Johann Zarco will be look- who crashed in Barcelona. we’ll keep working hard from the fi rst ses- ing to make it three wins in a row in the It leaves the title race wide open after sion to fi nd a good setup and try and fi ght Moto2 race, after the defending champion seven races. The 37-year-old Rossi beat for the podium again. hit back from a poor start to the campaign Marquez and Lorenzo to win in the Neth- “The weather is particularly unpredict- with victories in Italy and Barcelona. erlands last year, but accepts that this able there, so we’ll keep an eye on that Spaniard Alex Rins currently leads campaign has been very unpredictable. “I also and try to be fast from the beginning the way, eight points clear of Briton Sam used this short break to rest a bit and now of the weekend.” Lowes, with Zarco two further behind. I’m ready for the next race,” said Rossi. In the Moto3 category, South African “I love Assen, it is one of my favourite ‘Barcelona a great pity’ Brad Binder continues his seemingly in- tracks, but that doesn’t mean anything Lorenzo was knocked off top spot and exorable march to the title, with an eighth because every race this year is very open slipped to 10 points adrift of Marquez in consecutive podium fi nish in his sights. Gulf Times 10 Friday, June 24, 2016 SPORT

SWIMMING IOC ‘working hard’ to wipe clean doping stain

Paris: Olympic chiefs said yester- the IFs could potentially do their day they were “working hard” to sanctions before the Olympic McEvoy will lead have a backlog of doping cases Games,” it said in a statement, as resolved before the Rio Games authorities scramble to repair the start in six weeks’ time, as Rus- damage done by doping to the sian weightlifters faced a fresh Olympic image. ban threat. The IWF has also ordered It comes days after athletics’ sanctions on countries including world governing body, the IAAF, North Korea, Romania, Uz- upheld its ban on Russian track bekistan, Azerbaijan and Moldova Australia charge, and field competitors taking part because of doping cases during in Rio, the latest chapters in a the qualification period for the roiling doping controversy that Olympics. threatens to cast a dark shadow This will aff ect the number of over the Games. weightlifters they can send to Weightlifting’s governing body Rio. on Wednesday put Russia, Ka- There was an unprecedented zakhstan and Belarus on notice 24 positive drug tests at last says Thorpe that they face being banned from year’s world championships the August 5-21 Rio Games over in Houston, underlining why repeat doping off ences. weightlifting has long struggled North Korea was among with an image problem. ‘He is one of the most exciting swimmers I have seen’ several other nations facing The IWF’s special executive sanctions over the use of banned committee meeting on Wednes- Reuters substances as the sport seeks to day in Tblisi, Georgia, reaff irmed Mumbai clean up its image. its commitment to “zero toler- The IWF, the weightlifting glo- ance” of doping with the aim of bal governing body, has banned “protecting clean athletes”. ameron McEvoy has that rare Bulgaria from the Olympics for The latest threat to Russia’s ability to bend water to his will doping. sports image and the prospect and the sprinter could help The International Weightlift- of more Russians missing out on Australia to a bumper haul of ing Federation (IWF) executive Rio drew fresh fire from Russian swimmingC medals at the Rio Games, announced this month that Sports Minister Vitali Mutko. “I fi ve-time Olympic champion Ian Thorpe 20 suspicious cases had been don’t understand these decisions. has said. McEvoy posted a time of 47.04 found in retests of samples from They look like a case of psychosis seconds in the 100 metres freestyle at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics in and a deviation from every legal Australia’s Olympic trials in April, the Beijing and London. standard and principle,” he told fastest recorded since synthetic suits Its executive decided at a news agency R-Sport. were banned at the end of 2009. meeting on Wednesday that “How can you penalise a team That put the 22-year-old among the countries with three or more that has to go to the Olympics in favourites for Rio’s blue riband sprint failed tests among the suspicious 2016 for violations committed in in August and to Thorpe was evidence cases would be banned for a year. 2008 or 2012?” that being a champion swimmer is about It named Russia, Kazakhstan He described the situation more than just physique. and Belarus as the countries fac- as “chaotic”, adding that Russia “He is one of the most exciting swim- ing suspension. “was going to look at all the deci- mers I have seen,” Thorpe, who won fi ve A final decision will be taken sions” before deciding whether gold, three silver and a bronze medal at after the International Olympic to appeal. the Sydney and Athens Olympics, told Committee (IOC) confirms wheth- The IWF executive also reacted Reuters in an interview. er the second samples from the with dismay to the appointment While McEvoy, at 1.85m, is still tow- weightlifters were positive. of Russian weightlifting chief ered over by many of his rivals, Thorpe The IOC said the IWF had sent Sergey Syrtsov as head of the Eu- said his technique and afi nity with the a “strong signal” and reiterated ropean federation’s anti-doping water set him apart. “I think people who that it was up to each interna- commission. “Given the current are very successful in swimming are tional federation what to do environment, the IWF executive those that can capture the water, they with the drug cheats, once it has board strongly suggests that learn how the water moves and how you confirmed a failed test. Mr. Syrtsov and the European can move within it,” he added. “The IOC is working hard to Weightlifting Federation recon- “A lot of people look to physical char- finish all disciplinary proceed- siders the appointment to this acteristics to explain people’s brilliance ings in time before Rio, so that particular position,” the IWF said. and it really has very little to do with this. And with someone like Cameron McEvoy’s stature, it shows those people ‘I want to master the water.’” Cameron McEvoy posted a time of 47.04 seconds in the 100 metres freestyle at Australia’s Olympic trials in April, the fastest FOCUS Thorpe, who will act as a panellist for recorded since synthetic suits were banned at the end of 2009. India’s Star Sports during the Olympics, also has high hopes for the Campbell runner-up despite carrying a shoulder Australia has long relied on its swim- team that we have fi elded for a decade sisters, Cate and Bronte, in Rio and said injury. mers to provide a bulk of medals at Ol- I think when it comes to swimming,” their sibbling rivalry can only bode well The sisters are set to clash in the 50 ympics but won only a single relay title he said. “I feel we will win a number of S Korea’s Park for the country’s medal prospects. and 100 freestyle in Rio while team- in London four years ago. gold medals. I am hesitant to say an ex- At the April trials, sprint queen Cate ing up in the women’s 4x100m relay The worst medal haul in 20 years led act number but I think it will be between set the second fastest 50m freestyle of all and 4x100m medley relays. “I think the to a series of reviews that found evidence four and six gold medals. time in 23.84 seconds, just 0.11 seconds match-up between the Campbell sisters of bullying, drunkenness and the abuse We have more people that are ranked seeks injunction shy of Britta Steff en’s 2009 world record is very interesting,” said Thorpe. of prescription drugs by some team world number one than we did going set in a synthetic swim-suit. She also set “Those two girls have swam so well members. into the London and we are very strong the year’s fastest time of 52.38 seconds and they are the best of friends. And Thorpe said the swim team would be in a number of events. We will win in the 100 freestyle, edging her sister number one and two in the world, which out to redeem themselves at Rio. “Aus- some of the higher profi le Olympic gold over Olympic ban and world champion Bronte, who was a looks very good for our relay...” tralia has a very strong team. It’s the best medals.” AFP ing,” lawyer Lim Sung-Woo told Seoul journalists. ROUND-UP There was no immediate reac- tion from the KOC, which last isgraced South Korean week turned down Park’s request swim star Park Tae- to have the additional three-year Hwan took legal steps national team suspension lifted. Serena concerned over Zika, but yesterday in his dogged Park has repeatedly begged campaignD to overturn a doping- for a chance to compete in what related ban on participating in the would be his third, and probably Olympic Games in Rio. last, Olympics — at one point get- The multiple Olympic medal- ting down on his hands and knees puts faith in Olympic support team list completed an 18-month drug during a press conference. The suspension in April after testing 26-year-old was once the poster- positive for an anabolic steroid in boy of South Korean swimming — Reuters er payments of around $150,000 and World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) out-of-competition controls be- courted by advertisers and idolised London $75,000 respectively, plus a smaller said Kenyan legislation passed in April fore the 2014 Asian Games. But by fans. pension. The cash prize for gold is fi ve needed further changes if the coun- he remains barred from compet- He won 400m freestyle gold and times the amount promised to athletes try was to be declared compliant with ing in Rio de Janeiro under a Ko- 200m freestyle silver at the 2008 ennis star Serena Williams says in past Olympic meets, while pensions WADA codes. rean Olympic Committee (KOC) Beijing Olympics, and two silver she is concerned about the Zika have been added for the fi rst time to Kenya, renowned for its distance rule which prohibits athletes from medals at the 2012 London Olym- outbreak ahead of August’s sweeten the deal. runners, has faced frequent allegations representing South Korea for three pics, as well as 400m world titles Rio Olympics, but has faith in Minimum wages in the capital Ja- of doping with about 40 cases reported years after the expiration of any in 2007 and 2011. On his competi- Tthe support team dealing with worries karta are around $235 per month, but in the past four years. The International doping ban. tive return to the pool last month, about the mosquito-carried virus. in remote provinces many still live on Olympic Committee said on Tuesday Park insists the rule is unfair he easily won the 100m, 200m, A number of major names, including less than $2 per day. At the London Ol- that competitors from Russia and Ken- and has appealed to the Court 400m and 1,500m freestyle events golfer Rory McIlroy, have pulled out of ympics in 2012, Indonesia, a country of ya, given their countries’ recent history of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in at the 88th Dong-A meet, which the Games because of health fears over 255 million, failed to clinch a single gold of doping, would have to be screened in- Lausanne, which is now consider- doubles as a national trial. Zika. The World Health Organisation medal for the fi rst time in more than two dividually before being allowed to par- ing his case. Yesterday, Park’s legal His positive doping test was last week said there is a “very low risk” decades. ticipate in the Rio Games. team sought an injunction from only revealed in January last year, of further spread of the virus as result of The ministry hopes the cash incen- “We look forward to WADA’s review the Seoul Eastern District Court and was initially blamed by Park’s the sporting event held in Brazil. tives will spur a better result at the up- and declaration of Kenya as compliant that would make any eventual CAS management team on the incom- “Obviously it does (worry me). The coming Games, where Indonesia is still with existing rules,” President Uhuru ruling binding on the KOC. “The petence of a doctor at the hospital US (team) has talked to all the athletes, a minnow compared to regional heavy- Kenyatta said after signing the amend- court action is aimed at securing where the swimmer was receiving they have been going through a lot of weights like China. “This is to motivate ments into law. “Kenya has always sup- the binding power of the CAS rul- treatment. protocol to make sure everyone is okay athletes to dream big. Don’t do it half- ported clean sport and will continue to and comfortable and if not there is no heartedly, aim for the Olympics,” min- do so.” pressure to go,” Williams, who will be istry spokesman Gatot Dewa Broto told WADA declared Kenya non-compli- competing for the United States at the AFP. ant with its anti-doping code, prompt- Games, told Reuters in London. Past athletes also won’t miss out, ing the country to introduce new leg- “We are all looking forward to it and with the government promising to islation. After WADA still found fl aws, we are all worried about it but the ath- backpay the pension to medallists in such as the presence of government letes that are going are defi nitely taking past Olympic and Paralympic meets. offi cials in Kenya’s anti-doping agency, the right precautions.” Indonesia fi rst participated in the Ol- Kenya began working on amendments. Williams was speaking at a par- ympics in 1952, but was forced to wait Kenyan offi cials said last week that ty ahead of Wimbledon, where she until South Korea in 1988 before it won WADA had approved the amendments swapped her racket for a microphone any medals. to prevent doping by Kenyan athletics. to sing some karaoke. Williams will Since then it has won 27 individual “The president instructed me to en- be looking to claim her seventh title at and team medals in badminton, weight- sure all athletes going to the Games Wimbledon, which she said was her fa- Serena Williams lifting and archery. President Joko are screened and the results reported vourite tournament. “I like the tradition. Widodo this week encouraged his na- to him personally,” National Olympic I really do. I like that it is so traditional,” they make the podium, in a bid to boost tion’s athletes to strive for a podium Committee of Kenya (NOCK) Chairman she said. The 21-times Grand Slam sin- their medal count in Rio. fi nish, saying he hoped to hear the In- Kipchoge Keino told Reuters after the gles champion is seeded number one for The sports and youth ministry said donesian national anthem thundering signing. Wimbledon, which starts on Monday. athletes who win gold at the Rio Games around Rio Di Janeiro when the Games “We must fi ght doping and all forms in August will be granted a one-off pay- got underway on August 5. of cheating in sports and Olympic INDONESIAN MEDALLISTS ment of 5 billion Indonesian rupiah movement,” said Keino. Among the TO GET CASH FOR LIFE (USD$377,500) and a lifetime pension of KENYAN PRESIDENT SIGNS high-profi le Kenyan athletes who have Indonesia promised yesterday large around $1,500 a month. ANTI-DOPING MEASURES INTO LAW failed doping tests was former three- cash payments and generous lifetime Athletes who win silver and bronze Kenya’s president signed an anti-dop- time Boston City and Chicago marathon pensions to their Olympic athletes if will also be rewarded, albeit with less- ing amendment bill into law, after the winner, Rita Jeptoo. Park Tae-Hwan Gulf Times Friday, June 24, 2016 11 SPORTSPORT

SPOTLIGHT CRICKET ROUND-UP Sri Lanka’s captain Buttler backs England Mathews doubtful for second ODI to keep playing shots The grandson of England bat- AFP Birmingham, United Kingdom ting great Denis Compton, Nick — a Test specialist who does not ‘We want to put teams under pressure, and there’s no reason to change’ play short-form international ri Lanka were left sweat- cricket — has also struggled to ing on the fi tness of cap- make runs for Middlesex so far tain Angelo Mathews for this season. the second one-day in- Now the hope is that by tak- ternationalS against England af- ing a break of unspecifi ed length, ter the all-rounder was rated “70 Compton — a notably more in- percent” following yesterday’s tense cricketer than his celebrat- practice session. edly carefree grandfather — will Today’s match at Edgbaston be allowed to “recharge”. is a day/night clash starting at Compton’s 16 Tests have 1300 GMT, so the tourists do yielded two centuries but a have a little extra time in which modest average of under 29 has key all-rounder Mathews can put his place in jeopardy ahead of demonstrate he has recovered England’s upcoming four-match fully from a hamstring strain. series at home to Pakistan, espe- The injury meant Mathews cially as he turns 33 on Sunday. was off the fi eld when England Compton’s move could pave the tail-ender Liam Plunkett struck way for an England recall for ei- the last ball of the match for six ther Scott Borthwick or Ian Bell. to seal a spectacular tie in Tues- day’s opening contest of a fi ve- IRELAND SET FOR LORD’S match series at Trent Bridge. CLASH WITH ENGLAND By that stage, Mathews had Ireland will face England on Eng- already underlined his worth to lish soil for the fi rst time when Sri Lanka by top-scoring with the teams meet in two one-day 73 in a total of 286 for nine, and internationals next year, offi cials then taking two early wickets announced yesterday. The fi rst with his medium pace as Eng- match will take place in Bristol land collapsed to 30 for four and on May 5, with the second one- 82 for six. day international two days later If he is sidelined today, off - at Lord’s on May 7. spinner Suraj Randiv is likely to Ireland are pushing for Test come into the team, with wick- recognition. Ireland and Eng- et-keeper Dinesh Chandimal land met for the fi rst of seven taking over as captain. ODIS between the two side in Belfast in 2006 when Marcus ENGLAND’S COMPTON TO Trescothick’s century helped see TAKE TIME OUT England to a 38-run win. Five of Nick Compton is to take a break the matches have been played in from cricket, the under-pressure Ireland, with the Irish’s lone win England’s wicket-keeper Jos Buttler at a press conference in Edgbaston, Brimingham yesterday. (Reuters) England batsman’s county side over England coming at the 2011 Middlesex announced yesterday. World Cup in India. AFP style that has helped bolster the team’s Liam at the end, and it again shows what Mankad ran out Australia non-striker Bill Compton repeatedly accepted Ireland also knocked Pakistan Birmingham, United Kingdom one-day fortunes since their embarrass- talent we have all the way down the order Brown during the 1947 Sydney Test, re- he was playing for his England out of the 2007 World Cup and ing fi rst-round exit at last year’s World — and character in a moment like that. It mains a legitimate dismissal, some regard place during a recent home Test defeated the West Indies at last Cup in Australia and New Zealand. was a bit of a get-out-of-jail. it as against the spirit of cricket. series against Sri Lanka where year’s edition in New Zealand, os Buttler has insisted England will “We expect the guys to come out to- "We were confi dent of chasing that tar- Nevertheless, Buttler said: "It is obvi- the number three managed just when only net run-rate stopped not shy away from their attacking morrow and play fantastically well,” said get down on that pitch, and we were dis- ously batsman error. If you walk out of 51 runs in three matches at an them qualifying for the knock- approach with the bat despite a Buttler at Edgbaston yesterday. “It just appointed we didn’t do that — but from your ground and someone wants to do average of 12.75. out stages. top-order collapse in the fi rst one- goes to show there will be more pressure the position we found ourselves in, it was it, it is in the laws of the game. It is all Jday international against Sri Lanka. on us this summer than last year — hav- nice to drag one back.” part of the game. "I was disappointed Buttler and Chris Woakes both made ing played the way we have in white-ball Buttler accepted he was responsible at the time, because it doesn't happen Sri Lanka’s Angelo 90s before tailender Liam Plunkett’s last- cricket over the last 12 months. (But) it for being run out in controversial fashion very often. I thought you could do that Mathews. (Reuters) ball six at Trent Bridge on Tuesday en- shows we shouldn’t have to do anything the last time England and Sri Lanka met every ball if you wanted and there would sured the fi rst of a fi ve-match series was diff erent — just go and play with that ag- in a one-day international at Edgbaston. be a chance to run someone out. But the tied. Wicket-keeper/batsman Buttler gressive mind-set and fall on the positive The fi nal match of the 2014 ODI series bowler would say 'why don't you just and all-rounder Woakes revived England side of what we do and be prepared to take between the two countries saw England stay in your crease?' So I guess I did learn from the depths of 82 for six, chasing 287. a risk rather than the negative option. batsman Buttler run-out at the non- something from it." Today’s second match of the Sri Lanka “If anything we should come out and striker's end by bowler Sachithra Sena- Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews, series sees England return to Edgbaston, play even more shots. That’s the way we nayake after Sri Lanka twice warned him speaking before Tuesday's dramatically the ground where they launched their want to play our cricket. We want to put for moving out of his ground backing up. tied fi rst ODI at Trent Bridge, insisted he new approach to 50-over cricket when teams under pressure, and there’s no rea- Sri Lanka won the match, and with it had no regrets about Buttler's dismissal Buttler and Joe Root both scored centu- son to change.” the series. Alastair Cook, then England's two years ago and would be prepared to ries in a national record total of 408 for Buttler, refl ecting on the tied series one-day captain, said at the time he was uphold a similar appeal again. "We will nine against New Zealand last year. opener, added: “It was a morale-boosting "pretty disappointed" but the view of play our cricket within the rules," said Buttler was adamant that now was not fi nish to the game, but also a strange feel- many former internationals was that But- Mathews. "If someone is trying to take time for England’s top-order to go into ing — because you don’t want to celebrate tler was at fault. Even though 'Mankad- advantage of the rules then we will prob- their shells and abandon the aggressive getting a tie too often. Great credit to ing', the term coined after India's Vinoo ably warn him.

BOXING FOCUS Klitschko calls for champion India’s Kom won’t quit over Fury’s suspension from the ring ‘heartbreaking’ Rio KO

Reuters AFP card. It is heartbreaking,” Kom “They had taken the call in London New Delhi was quoted saying by the Press the previous meeting that they Trust of India (PTI) news agen- will stick to the rule of any cy. “I have to accept this deci- country with less than eight ritain’s world heavyweight champion ndia’s “Magnifi cent” Mary sion but I am not quitting the participants in any sport. So it’s Tyson Fury should be banned from Kom said yesterday she was sport right now. I will continue a call that they have taken and boxing for his “Hitler like” com- heartbroken after failing to to compete (while) I am feeling we have to fall in line,” said Nar- ments, former champion Wladimir gain a wildcard for the Rio fi t and for the time being I think si. Despite her disappointment, KlitschkoB has said, as the two prepare to face IOlympics, but the fi ve-time I am fi t,” added Kom. Kom, a mother-of-three who off in a re-match in Manchester next month. world champion stressed she Kom, a household name in hails from a poor family in the Fury, 27, who beat Klitschko to take the wasn’t about to quit boxing. India and the subject of a Hindi neglected and remote state of WBA, WBO and IBF belts in November last Kom, 33, failed to qualify fi lm in 2014, always faced an Manipur, insisted “the future is year, caused controversy when he made after losing a crucial bout at uphill battle to secure a spot. good”. “I am aware that retire- homophobic, sexist and anti-Semitic com- the Women’s World Boxing Only one wildcard entry was on ment is something that would ments in a video posted online last month. Championships in Kazakhstan off er for each of the three wom- be talked about a lot, but for the Though Fury has since apologised for the last month, raising specula- en’s boxing categories in Rio time being I have dropped the remarks, Ukrainian Klitschko said the sport tion about her future. The 2012 in August. “The IOC has ruled idea,” said Kom, dubbed ‘Mag- would be better off without a champion like Olympic bronze medallist had that the (wildcard) will be given nifi cent Mary’ after she won her Fury. “I was in shock at his statements about been pinning her hopes on a only to countries which have fi fth world championship title women, the gay community, and when he got last-ditch plea for a wildcard had less than eight participants in 2010. to the Jewish people he sounded like Hitler. spot, but the International Ol- in last two Olympics, and India “Of course I would be spend- The man is an imbecile. Seriously,” Klitschko ympic Committee has now had eight boxers in London,” ing more time at my academy told British media. turned down her request. Kishen Narsi, chairman of In- training young kids but I will “You cannot put it all together as a repre- “I have been duly informed dia’s ad hoc boxing committee, continue to devote as much sentation of the sport of boxing. He’s an im- that I won’t be getting a wild- told AFP. time to my training as well.” becile champion. We cannot have a champion like that. Either he needs to be shut up or shut down in the ring, or just suspended, because you cannot create more hate.” Last year over 100,000 people signed a pe- tition to remove the fi ghter from BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year, prompting another apology from Fury. Fury faces Klitschko for the WBA and WBO titles on July 9. Wladimir Klitschko (right) trains for his next month's fight against Tyson Fury. (Reuters) Mary Kom JOSHUA HAS A LOT OF WEAKNESSES, failed to qualify SAYS TITLE OPPONENT BREAZEALE professional fi ght, will put up his fi rst defence defi nitely had tougher fi ghts than Joshua.” after losing a British boxer Anthony Joshua’s weaknesses of the title against Californian Breazeale to- With a record of 17-0, Breazeale is unde- crucial bout at will be exposed when he defends his IBF morrow. “Joshua has a lot of weaknesses. feated as a professional and appeared at the the Women’s world heavyweight title, his opponent Do- Joshua doesn’t have much of a jaw, I under- 2012 London Olympics, where he lost in the World Boxing minic Breazeale has said as the American stand that he is really robotic,” the 30-year- fi rst round. “Everything from coaching to ar- Championships returns to London for the fi rst time since his old told British media. rival in London didn’t have a lot of education in Kazakhstan 2012 Olympics nightmare. “He has a little speed, a little power, it’s the put into it,” he added. “You had no idea who last month Olympic champion Joshua, who won the heavyweight game that is what we do. He’s was in the competition, no idea who you were world heavyweight crown in only his 16th (Joshua) very raw for having 16 fi ghts. I have fi ghting.”

Friday, June 24, 2016 GULF TIMES SPORT

PREVIEW SPOTLIGHT Al Sadd gets grass tested at Qatar’s turf Stage set for Futsal research centre Intercontinental Cup in Doha Qatar champions Al Rayyan will face some of the world’s best teams for the title

he Supreme Committee dium the next day. We unloaded for Delivery & Legacy the turf on the fi eld and then lev- (SC) has taken another elled the site. We ensured that signifi cant step in the the soil and irrigation are ready ongoingT preparations for the to be used.” 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar by Al-Mullah continued: “After successfully giving the renowned returfi ng, the maintenance team, Al Sadd SC Stadium a new sur- involving the SC and stakehold- face. The turf was developed and ers Aspire Zone, stepped in for tested in the pioneering turf Re- the levelling and top dressing. search and Development Centre They then drew the lines. The at Aspire Zone. newly laid turf was kept under SC Manager for Landscape irrigation for a day with the fi rst and Sport Turf Yasser al-Mulla Qatar Amateur League match on revealed that following the re- the new turf on 13 June.” turfi ng of the Jassim bin Hamad Al-Mullah is confi dent about Stadium on 12 June, three games the potential performance of the of the Qatar Amateur League, in- new surface. “Al Sadd SC have cluding the fi nal, were staged on sought a report about the po- the new turf. tential performance of the new “Normally, during a game, turf in the future and our recom- some bits of grass could be up- mendation is that it will give the rooted. But in the matches played club absolutely no trouble at all following the laying of the new because it is of top quality.” turf we had no such problems,” Over the last eight months, Al Rayyan coach Cesar Nunez (right) and player Lucas de Oliveira address a press al-Mulla told www.sc.qa. diff erent varieties of grass have conference yesterday. PICTURES: Jayaram Inter Movistar coach Jesus Velasco (right) and captain Luis Amado Al-Mulla said the returfi ng been tested in the Research and venture was part of a backup Development Centre, a venture By Sports Reporter of Iran and Dynamo Moscow of Russia, “Our fi rst match is very important. But The last edition of the tournament strategy being developed by the co-owned by the SC and Aspire Doha who have been drawn together in Group A. we are playing against Inter, who I be- took place in 2013 and was won by Rus- SC to ensure top quality turf for Zone Foundation, which is the Rayyan will open their campaign against lieve are top futsal team in the world. Our sian club Dynamo Moscow FC after they 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar sta- fi rst of its kind in the region. Inter Movistar today at Ali bin Hamad players are very excited to play against beat Brazilian club Carlos Barbosa 5-1. diums. “The objective of the ex- The SC as part of tournament l Rayyan face a daunting task al-Attiyah Arena and it won’t be easy for them. It’s an opportunity for us to see The National Futsal League of Spain ercise was to fi nish the returfi ng planning for 2022 FIFA World at the Futsal Intercontinental them. This season, Inter has already won how good we are. We will give it our all,” is collaborating with Qatar Football As- of the stadium in under 18 hours,” Cup are using the returfi ng ex- Cup, which begins today in the League and Super Cup in Spain. They Nunez said. sociation to organise the tournament said al-Mulla. “We fi nished the ercise to develop the operational ADoha. The Qatar champions are are also with most intercontinental titles, Al Rayyan’s key player Lucas de Olivei- in Doha. One of the main attractions of work in less than 15 hours, which strategies related to pitch main- in the toughest of the two groups, with having won the tournament fi ve times, ra said they will look to have fun. “It’s not the event will be the presence of Brazil- is a great eff ort.” tenance and repair. The SC op- Group B also comprising Spanish futsal consecutively from 2005 to 2011. easy playing against these teams. But we ian great Falcao (Alessandro Rosa Vieira), Al-Mullah elaborated on erational planning team has also league champions Inter Movistar, Liber- However, since their last triumph are here to give our best. We want to go widely considered the best futsal player the process of returfi ng, which been working closely with the tadores Cup winners Magnus Futsal and at home in Madrid, they have not even out there and enjoy playing against some in the world. started in the Research and De- Qatar Football Association to ar- Portuguese champions Benfi ca. reached the fi nal and are determined to big teams like Inter and Magnus,” he said. Falcao, who has been named the am- velopment Centre long before range the necessary tournaments Two teams from a group make it to the break the drought here in Doha. For Inter, it’s the end of the season. bassador for the event, has won several the work began in the stadium: to test the resilience, durability semi-fi nal stage, and Rayyan players will Al Rayyan, meanwhile, are hoping that While fatigued they are, the prospect of titles with his national team as well as for “We started harvesting the turf and playing performance of the have to produce performances of their playing at home will help them spring a winning the sixth title has kept them fo- various clubs around the world as a pro- at the centre on 10 June. Then turf at key stages during the de- lives to make it to the knock-stage. few surprises. The Qatar champions are cused. The Jesus Velasco-coached side fessional. we transported it to Al Sadd Sta- velopment. (sc.qa) The tournament brings together eight coached by Spaniard Cesar Nunez, who wants to end the season on a high. of the world’s best futsal teams who will believes the tournament will serve as a In its 15th edition, the Intercontinental TODAY’S MATCHES battle it out for the winners’ trophy at good exposure for his boys. Futsal Cup is considered to be one of the At Ali bin Hamad al-Attiyah Arena: two venues — the Aspire Ladies Sports “We are very excited to be participat- best club’s tournaments in the world. Al Rayyan vs Inter Movistar, 9pm; Australia’s Mills set to use Hall and Ali bin Hamad al-Attiyah Arena, ing in the tournament. It’s being held in The inaugural edition of the tournament SL Benfica vs Magnus Futsal, 10:45pm which will host the fi nal on June 29th. Qatar and we want to do well. But it won’t was held at Porto Alegre in Brazil in 1997 At Aspire Ladies Sports Hall: personal security in Rio The other teams in the fray are Spain’s be easy for us. There are some world class when Sport Club Internacional of Brazil FC Dynamo vs Carlos Barbosa, 9pm; FC Barcelona Lassa, Brazilian giants Carlos teams out there, who have got more ex- won the title beating FC Barcelona 4-2 in Tasisat Daryaei vs FC Barcelona Lassa, Sydney: Australia’s NBA player demanding action. Barbosa, Asian champions Tasisat Daryaei posure than us,” he said. the fi nal. 10:45pm Patty Mills said he plans to hire “Obviously you can’t ignore personal security at the Rio that stuff . We have got some Olympics to ensure the safety stuff together with our family OLIVE BRANCH of his family after a Paralympic to make sure they are looked sailor and team off icial from after,” Mills, who plays for San his country were robbed at Antonio Spurs in the NBA, told gunpoint in the host city. News Corp. Clean Russian athletes can compete as neutrals: IAAF Paralympic sailor Liesl Tesch “It is an Olympics and you want and physiotherapist Sarah to make sure you share that ex- Reuters letics Federations (IAAF) Council decid- systems, then they should be able to apply Russian pole vault legend Yelena Isin- Ross said they were taking a perience with your family and Monaco ed last week to maintain the suspension for permission to compete in international bayeva had threatened to sue the IAAF bike ride in a park near their friends as much as you can. of Russia after fi ndings of drug test viola- competitions, not for Russia but as a neu- over the ban while International Olym- hotel at Flamengo Beach early “Definitely I am putting some tions, including ignored positives and al- tral athlete,” said an IAAF statement. pic Committee chief Thomas Bach said on Sunday when they were focus into that to make sure ussian athletes who can prove tered test results. But clean athletes have The Russian athletes ban began last Tuesday that Russian athletes who pass confronted by two men, one of they are looked after and they are untainted by the coun- now been off ered an olive branch — un- November on fi ndings from world anti- an individual test by the IAAF could whom was carrying a pistol. healthy.” Asked if he would try’s doping scandal were yes- der certain conditions. doping organisation WADA’s independent compete under their own nation’s fl ag at Australia’s Chef de Mission take a bodyguard to Rio, Mills terday given the go-ahead to “If there are any individual athletes who commission into state-sponsored doping the Olympic Games. Kitty Chiller said the incident said: “Yeah, over in America competeR at the Rio Olympics but as neu- can clearly and convincingly show that in the country’s track and fi eld set-up. IAAF president Sebastian Coe said it was a “light warning” and that we have got some people con- trals and not under their national fl ag, they are not tainted by the Russian system But it has caused deep divisions in the had been crucial to agree guidelines with she had written to the Rio or- nected to make sure they are the IAAF said. because they have been outside the country sport ahead of the Rio Olympics which the European championships due to start ganising committee and mayor looked after.” The International Association of Ath- and subject to other eff ective anti-doping get under way on August 5. in Amsterdam on July 6.

BOTTOMLINE FOCUS Kuwait sues IOC Harrington steps up aft er for $1bn over ban

Reuters billion as a result of the IOC’s Kuwait unjustifi able decision to sus- McDowell rules out Rio trip pend the Kuwait Olympic Com- mittee,” KUNA said. Reuters due to have our second child just a but recognised the “unique cir- uwait is seeking $1bn “It is totally unacceptable that London couple of weeks after the Olympic cumstances” McDowell faced. in damages from the Kuwait is treated in this unfair Golf competition concludes,” said The two Northern Irishmen International Olympic way and is barred from inter- McDowell. join a growing list of players de- Committee (IOC) for national sports activities with- adraig Harrington “I made the decision many ciding not to go to Brazil. banningK the country from in- out conducting an appropriate stepped up for Ireland months ago, before I was on the Fiji’s Vijay Singh, Australia’s ternational competitions, state investigation,” the minister, yesterday after compa- team, that I would not play or Marc Leishman and South Af- news agency KUNA reported. Sheikh Salman al-Hmoud al- Ptriots Graeme McDowell travel outside the US, where I and rica’s former Masters champion The IOC suspended Kuwait Sabah, was quoted as saying at and Rory McIlroy ruled out play- my family live, in the weeks run- Charl Schwartzel have all pulled in October 2015, accusing the a banquet on Wednesday night. ing in Rio when golf returns to the ning up to the birth,” he added. out of the Olympics due to con- government of interference The ban means the country’s Olympics for the fi rst time in 112 The decision left Harrington as cerns over Zika. in its national Olympic Com- Olympic Committee and con- years. “It would be a huge honour next in line, based on current Australian world number eight mittee. The ban is unlikely to sequently its athletes are not for me to represent Ireland at the ranking points. Adam Scott and South Africa’s be lifted before the Rio Games eligible for any funding from the Olympic Games, having played “I will work very hard over the world number 14 Louis Oosthui- which start on August 5, mean- IOC for the duration of the sus- an active role in golf’s bid to be re- next few weeks to achieve this zen have also opted out for sched- ing Kuwaiti athletes would only pension. included in the Olympic Games selection,” he said in a statement uling reasons. be allowed to compete under the Kuwait was suspended in 2010 programme,” said Harrington, a issued by the Olympic Council of US health offi cials have con- Olympic fl ag. over a similar dispute but rein- three times major champion, in a Ireland. cluded that Zika infections in Kuwait’s minister of infor- stated before the 2012 London statement. birth defects. Irishman because his wife is due The Irish golf team will be an- pregnant women can cause mi- mation and youth said late on Olympics. The national football World number four McIlroy Former US Open champion to give birth a couple of weeks af- nounced next month, with Shane crocephaly, a birth defect marked Wednesday that Kuwait “is tak- federation was also banned by announced his withdrawal on McDowell then issued a state- ter the Games. Lowry sure to be one of the play- by small head size that can lead to ing the International Olympic FIFA this month over govern- Wednesday because of fears over ment ruling himself out as re- “As many within golf will know, ers. The International Golf Fed- severe developmental problems Committee to the Swiss courts ment interference in the running the Zika virus which can cause placement for the Northern my wife Kristin is pregnant and is eration said it was disappointed in babies. for damages amounting to $1 of the Kuwaiti FA.