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Friday, February 21, 2020 CRICKET Jumada II 27, 1441 AH Warner joins GULF TIMES Aussie charm off ensive in SA SPORT Page 2

HH THE AMIR’S SWORD FESTIVAL Mehdi beats Umm Qarn stablemate for feature win ‘MISSED A FEW, BUT WE WON THE BIGGEST PRIZE OF THE DAY. SO I AM QUITE HAPPY WITH IT’

By Mikhil Bhat Doha

fter a couple of near misses earlier yesterday, the famous white stars and maroon silks of UmmA Qarn entered the paddock on the double as Mehdi edged out stablemate Sealine for a thrilling victory in the Al Zubara Trophy, the feature race on the fi rst day of His Highness The Amir’s Sword Festival at Al Rayyan Park. Umm Qarn and trainer Alban de Mieulle had fi nished runner- up a couple of times on the day, but the Frenchman was beaming as Ronan Thomas-ridden Me- hdi and Olivier Peslier-helmed Sealine locked in a duel of their own on the home straight of the 2000m feature for local Purebred Arabians. A mere nose separated the two at the post as early leader, She’ris, rounded up the podium Ronan Thomas (left) rides Umm Qarn’s Mehdi to victory ahead of stablemate Sealine, ridden by Olivier under Eduardo Pedroza. Peslier, in the Al Zubara Trophy yesterday. “Missed a few, but we won the biggest prize of the day. So I am tered the winner’s circle yet again quite happy with it,” De Mieulle when Eduardo Pedroza raced Al told Gulf Times after the victory. Shahania Stud’s Dahra to a close Jockey Tomas Lukasek celebrates as Woodkid is led in to the winner’s circle after a victory in the “I am really happy for (His victory in the Purebred Arabian Thoroughbred Handicap event yesterday. Highness) Sheikh Abdullah’s (bin Handicap event for horses rated Khalifa al-Thani) breeding oper- 85 & below. the fi rst time this racing weekend RESULTS Race 5: 1. Jacko (Harry Bentley), ation. It’s very important to win Woodkid’s consistency has when the latter guided Jacko to Race 1: 1. Mon’nia (Tomas Lu- 2. What A Surprise (Soufiane a big one in the fi rst race meeting never been in question as the a thrilling victory in the 2000m kasek), 2. Jabir (Ronan Thomas), Saadi), 3. Al Mujahaz (Marco (of the Festival). Smart-trained horse has fi nished handicap run for Thoroughbreds. 3. Maiuf (Faleh Bughanaim), 4. Al Casamento), 4. Thunderbolt “I am really happy for Sealine in the top fi ve each time he has Shaheen bin Khalid Shaheen al- Hazm (Olivier Peslier). Won by: Rocks (Luca Maniezzi). Won by: since it is the fi rst time he has lined up at Al Rayyan Park, even Ghanim’s colt was well held over 4, 2, Hd. Time: 1:43.53. Owner: His Nk, 1, ¼. Time: 2:02.82. Owner: done the distance on turf. if victories have been few and far course and distance last month, Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Shaheen bin Khalid Shaheen “I had told the two jockeys to in between. but did well yesterday to nego- Khalifa al-Thani. Trainer: Julian al-Ghanim. Trainer: Jassim Mo- not push the horses if they both Yesterday, the bay horse sur- tiate traffi c problems and then Smart. hamed Ghazali. end up in the lead together, and prised even his handler with a picking up a neck victory. Race 2: 1. Damon Runyon (Leo Race 6: 1. Woodkid (Tomas that’s exactly what happened. I late surge in pace under Lukasek After fi nishing in the money on Salles), 2. Dreaming Away (Tom Lukasek), 2. Sir Commander am really pleased with the way as they kept increasing the gap all four previous outings, Majed Marquand), 3. Rate Exchanged (Marco Casamento), 3. Tremen- things have gone today. on Jassim Mohamed Ghazali- Seifeddine-schooled Al Shomos (Eduardo Pedroza), 4. Wa’ad dous Leap (Theo Bachelot), 4. “I hope the results are the same trained duo – Sir Commander registered her fi rst career victory, (Rashid Ali al-Marri). Won by: 2 Skate (Ryan Curatolo). Won by: on Saturday too.” and Tremendous Leap – to even- topping the Local Thoroughbred ¾, 2 ¾, No. Time:1:11.41. Owner: 2, Nk, 2. Time: 1:35.38. Owner: His It was a great day in the offi ce tually win the Thoroughbred Handicap event for horses rated Al Murtages Racing Syndicate. Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin for the colours of His Highness Handicap event by a comfortable 85 and below. Carlos Henrique, Trainer: Mohamed Hamad al- Khalifa al-Thani. Trainer: Julian Sheikh Mohamed bin Khalifa al- two lengths. riding in the colours of Mubar- Attiyah. Smart. Thani and Al Shahania Stud too In the penultimate race of ak bin Saeed al-Jafai al-Naimi, Race 3: 1. Al Shomos (Carlos Hen- Race 7: 1. Dominus (Luca Maniez- after their horses bagged a hat- the day, Stefano Ibido-saddled guided the mare to a one-length rique), 2. Al Adheed (Leo Salles), zi), 2. Receding Waves (JP Guil- trick. Dominus brushed aside a slow win in what was the fi ve-year- 3. Rawdat Al Khail (Theo Bach- lambert), 3. Mr Diamond (Marco The Festival began with a fan- start to pick up an impressive old’s longest outing so far at elot), 4. King Of Hearts (Meteb Ali Casamento), 4. Shaheen (Anas al- tastic victory of Mon’nia, who, victory, with Luca Maniezzi rid- 2000m. al-Marri). Won by: 1, ¾, 1 ¾. Time: Seyabi). Won by: 3, 2, Shd. Time: under Tomas Lukasek bagged ing the colt to a three-lengths Mohamed Hamad al-Attiyah- 2:04.92. Owner: Mubarak bin 1:10.79. Owner: Abdulhadi Mana the Purebred Arabian Plate event victory in the Thoroughbreds schooled Damon Runyon had Saeed al-Jafai al-Naimi. Trainer: al-Hajri. Trainer: Stefano Ibido. with ease. The Julian Smart- Class 2 sprint. shown promise under Leo Salles Majed Seifeddine. Race 8: 1. Mehdi (Ronan Tho- trained fi lly had little trouble The victory in the six-furlong coming into yesterday’s maiden Race 4: 1. Dahra (Eduardo Pedro- mas), 2. Sealine (Olivier Peslier), surging forward at the business sprint was the Abdulhadi Mana for Thoroughbreds, fi nishing in za), 2. Djamil (Ronan Thomas), 3. 3. She’ris (Eduardo Pedroza), end, leaving a quartet saddled al-Hajri-owned colt’s fi rst since Asian and Qatar equestrian federation President Hamad bin the frame twice. Yesterday, she Aneeq (Ryan Curatolo), 4. Fazan 4. Ishfaq (Harry Bentley). Won by de Mieulle behind, eventu- arrival in Qatar. Abdulrahman al-Attiyah (left) presents the trainer’s trophy to Alban shed her maiden status in fi ne (Meteb Ali al-Marri). Won by: ½, by: No, 8 ½, 5 ¼. Time: 2:13.66. ally winning with four lengths to Champion trainer Ghazali and de Mieulle after Umm Qarn’s Mehdi won the Al Zubara Trophy fashion, winning the six-furlong Hd, ¼. Time: 1:45.92. Owner: Al Owner: Umm Qarn. Trainer: spare. champion jockey Harry Bentley at Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club’s Al Rayyan Park yesterday. sprint by a little under three Shahania Stud. Trainer: Ibrahim Alban de Mieulle. The famous blue colours en- combined well for a victory for PICTURES: Juhaim lengths. al-Malki.

BOTTOMLINE Inside line for defending champions Ebraz and French King on big day

By Sports Reporter and-a-half, His Highness Sheikh the Qatar International Stakes and there is a long way to go. There in Gazwan,” said De Mieulle, re- Next door in fi ve will be De race from the last time,” Peslier Doha Mohamed bin Khalifa al-Thani’s at Goodwood, the Qatar Arabian is added pressure of the Triple ferring to another Smart-trained Mieulle-trained Chamekh, while said yesterday. Ebraz is gunning for a double-tri- World Cup at Longchamp and His Crown, and possibly a third Amir’s ward and two-time event winner. French raider Khataab, trained by Another French raider in the ple in the USD 1mn Arabian feature Highness The Amir Sword at Al Sword. But if there is any horse “But he still has to face Ebraz and Thomas Fourcy for Al Shaqab, will race is Pedro Cara, owned by His efending champions in — His Highness The Amir Sword Rayyan. who deserves, it’s him, he is a war- (Al Shaqab Racing’s) Khataab. He line up in third. Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin both the feature races of (Group 1 PA). The seven-year-old son of the rior,” said Smart during the draw is a good horse and Insha Allah.” Osama Omer al-Dafea’s Evo- Khalifa al-Thani, while the col- His Highness The Amir If Julian Smart-trained Ebraz prolifi c Arabian sire Amer has ceremony at Qatar National Mu- The two Alban de Mieulle wards lution Du Croate and Mohamed ours will also represented by Otwo DSword Festival will line lands the big Arabian prize over shown the versatility to land the seum yesterday. will start on the other end of the Nasser al-Naimi’s Akmar com- and American contender Standard up in Gate 1, aiming for supremacy mile-and-a-half, he will not only miler in the UK and the mile-and- Pushing Ebraz in the race will gates in seven and eight, with a plete the fi eld and will line up in Deviation. The trio will start from in Qatar’s fl agship and most pres- be the fi rst to win the event thrice, a-quarter in France, and will have be Umm Qarn’s Yazeed, winner third De Mieulle charge, Meb- gates six and two respectively. gates six, four and three respec- tigious races tomorrow. having won in 2019 and 2017, the spotlight in the mile-and-a- of Group 2 Qatar National Day lish, lining up from nine in the Al Henri-Alex Pantall-trained tively. While His Highness Sheikh but will also win the Doha Triple half tomorrow. Trophy in December, and Tayf, Shaqab Racing colours. French King has won thrice over The Thoroughbred race will see Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Thani’s Crown. The shiny golden Doha While the inside draw did not HE Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al Flanking the 10-strong fi eld on the distance since his victory last strong local contenders, includ- French King will be looking for a Triple Crown trophy and a US- visibly please Smart, even though Thani Trophy (Group 3) earlier this the outside will be Aaley Al Mag- year at Al Rayyan Park and Olivier ing two-time winner The Blue Eye double in His Highness The Amir D1mn bonus is for the horse that that’s exactly where Ebraz had month. am, expected to play pacemaker Peslier was in the saddle each time. (gate 11), Group 2 winner Noor Al Trophy (QA Group 1), the USD1mn wins three of the biggest Arabian started last year, he, however, “He (Yazeed) will have to face for Ebraz, with a third Smart ward, “He has won here before, knows Hawa (gate nine) and Derby win- Thoroughbred feature over a mile- races in the world, starting with played it down. “Gate 1, 10 horses one good horse less this time round Maxr in gate four. the track. But this is a diff erent ner Full Moon (gate seven). Gulf Times 2 Friday, February 21, 2020 CRICKET

FIRST TWENTY20 FOCUS Pakistan’s Akmal suspended under Warner joins Aussie anti-corruption code

AFP Karachi

akistan’s peren- charm off ensive in nial problem-maker Umar Akmal was suspended yesterday The match will be Australia’s Punder an anti-corruption rule, cricket offi cials announced, first in SA since the infamous sidelining him from the Paki- stan Super League pending an “Sandpaper-gate” tour of 2018 inquiry. South Africa The 29-year-old has re- ceived numerous fi nes and suspensions in his 11-year ca- reer, and was arrested in 2014 after violating traffi c rules in his native Lahore. Without giving details one-day internationals and 84 about the latest case, the Paki- Twenty20 internationals since stan Cricket Board (PCB) said his debut in 2009. Umar had been suspended and He last played for Pakistan would not play in the Pakistan in the Twenty20 series against Super League (PSL), which Sri Lanka four months ago, started yesterday in Karachi. failing to score in both match- “He cannot take part in any es. cricket-related activity pend- Earlier this month, the PCB ing the investigation being warned Umar over his conduct carried out by PCB’s anti-cor- during a fi tness test where he ruption unit,” the board said in allegedly made crude remarks a statement. to a trainer. “As this is an ongoing in- Last year, he was fi ned 20% vestigation, the PCB will not of his match fee for violating make any further comments.” the team’s curfew in Dubai af- Umar was due to play for ter he went partying. defending champions Quetta Umar also had run-ins with Gladiators in the six-team Pakistan’s former head coach PSL. Mickey Arthur, who sent him Often described as a talent- home after he failed a fi tness ed yet undisciplined cricketer, test just weeks before the 2017 Umar has played 16 Tests, 121 Champions Trophy in Britain.

SPOTLIGHT Ooredoo announces sponsorship of 2020 Inter-Hotel Cricket Tournament

File photo of Australia’s David Warner. PICTURE: Cricket Australia By Sports Reporter opportunity for cricket en- Doha thusiasts working in hotels to compete against cricket- ers from other hotels in a fun, AFP of just under 30,000. It is a noisy a “humbling experience”. WARNING the previous day, saying “It’s atar’s leading tel- friendly tournament. Up to 30 Johannesburg venue and especially so when Warner admitted yesterday As for the crowd noise, he said: nice to be back playing in South ecommunications of the top hotels in Doha are Australia are the opposition. that walking into the airport “Every time you play Twenty20 Africa. operator has an- set to participate. But all opposition teams are and the hotel they left in dis- cricket you can’t hear anything, “The last time I was here, nounced it is to be Speaking of the spon- avid Warner joined regarded as fair game. As re- grace two years ago evoked it’s so loud and fast. You’re only things didn’t end overly well QOffi cial Telecommunications sorship, Manar Khalifa al- Australia’s charm of- cently as last month, England’s memories that “weren’t great”. ingrained in what’s in front of but I’ve also got really fond Sponsor for the upcoming Muraikhi, Director PR and fensive yesterday ahead Ben Stokes was provoked into But, he added, “the last few you. memories of playing here.” 2020 Premier Cricket League Corporate Communications of the fi rst Twenty20 swearing at a rowdy spectator days every single person we’ve “When I’m batting it’s that He agreed with Langer that Inter-Hotel Cricket Tourna- at Ooredoo, said: “We’re internationalD against South Af- after he was dismissed in the come across has asked for a white ball and when I’m fi elding spectator abuse during last ment. delighted to support this rica at the Wanderers Stadium, fourth Test match. photo or people we’ve spoken it’s, watch my captain and make year’s tour of England had been Organised by the Diplo- great event that encour- a ground renowned for being The Australians have tack- to have had nothing but great sure I’m staying focused.” a good dress rehearsal for his matic Club, the event will ages community cohesion among the most intimidating in led the issue head on, from words. They’ve welcomed us He said the Wanderers was return to South Africa. be opened at an offi cial cer- and promotes a healthy, ac- the world. their arrival press conference to the country and been really not a uniquely hostile environ- “I don’t notice it, particu- emony at Asian Town In- tive lifestyle, in line with our The match will be Australia’s where coach Justin Langer said polite. It’s been incredible how ment and he off ered an oblique larly when I’m batting,” he ternational Cricket Stadium corporate social responsibil- fi rst in South Africa since the how much Australian teams much support we’ve had from warning to potentially rowdy said. “Maybe a little bit when tomorrow, which will also ity strategy. Workers in hotels infamous “Sandpaper-gate” “love coming to South Africa”, the public.” spectators. I’m fielding, but then again, host the semi-fi nals, fi nal and contribute immensely to the tour of 2018 and will mark the through to exposing both Smith Whether the Wanderers “They’re representing their it’s just words, it doesn’t af- closing ceremony on 21 March economy and tourist industry return in front of South African and Warner to media confer- crowd will be so welcoming is country as well, they’re spec- fect me.” 2020. League matches will in Qatar, and we’re pleased to crowds of former captain Steve ences where they talked about debatable but Warner said he tators watching a game of Jacques Faul, acting chief ex- take place at Lusail Grounds be able to work with the Dip- Smith and opening batsman the warm welcome they had re- didn’t anticipate any problems. cricket. I’m pretty sure they ecutive of Cricket South Africa, on 29 February, 7 March and lomatic Club to give them this Warner, both banned for a year ceived from South Africans. “It’s one-day cricket and T20 don’t want to walk away with has asked fans to “respect” the 14 March. exciting opportunity. We wish for their role in the scandal. Smith also tweeted how a cricket. We don’t have much teams criticising the way Australians and warned that The Premier Cricket League all the teams the best of luck, The Wanderers ‘bullring’ is visit to a Soweto school for time to get under each others’ they’re acting.” unruly spectators could be Inter-Hotel Cricket Tour- and look forward to seeing likely to be packed to its capacity children with special needs was skins,” he said. Smith spoke in similar vein ejected from the ground. nament aims to provide an some awesome cricket.”

WELLINGTON TEST Exciting to compete against ‘world-class’ India: Williamson New Zealand skipper Kane does tend to provide a bit of No concerns about Indian openers Williamson has dubbed movement and assistance Team India as a “world-class for the fast bowlers. side with a world-class pace Leaving the ball well and attack” and thus called on his knowing your off -stump is team to bring their A game in the important part to most, on green wicket, says Rahane the two-Test series beginning I guess, top-order batsmen’s today at the Basin Reserve. games. So, I suppose Reuters doping violation. “India have a world-class adapting to what’s in front Wellington Agarwal cemented himself in the side, world-class pace attack of us is the most important opening spot in 2019 and has already that have performed in all thing,” he said. scored two double centuries, a century conditions,” Williamson told The Black Caps skipper ndia vice captain Ajinkya Rahane has as well as three half centuries and owns a reporters at the pre-match also said that he will make no concerns about inexperienced Test average of 67.07. conference yesterday. a final inspection of the openers Prithvi Shaw and Mayank If the tourists were put in to bat today, “So, really an exciting Basin Reserve pitch before Agarwal potentially facing a fi red-up Rahane said, it would be imperative to opportunity for our team confirming his side for the INew Zealand attack on a seaming wicket keep the innings alive at least until the but once again it is trying to Wellington Test. in the fi rst Test today. close of play. assist the conditions as best Right-arm pace bowler Kyle Basin Reserve groundsman Hagen “Generally in New Zealand, the wick- we can and commit our plans Jamieson looks set for his Faith said the wicket for the match still ets become really good to bat on,” said which ultimately gives us the debut in the absence of Neil had plenty of moisture in it and Rahane the 31-year-old batsman, who scored his best chance of good results,” Wagner who has withdrawn was asked what advice he might give his maiden Test century at the Wellington he added. In the ongoing from the squad to await the openers if they were sent out to bat fi rst. ground in 2014. World Test Championship, birth of his first child. “I would only tell them to go out and “It’s about how you take the fi rst ses- India have won all the seven “We just want to have play their game,” he told reporters. sion on the fi rst day. If you can consoli- matches they have played another look at this surface,” “The ball will do a lot in the fi rst ses- date as a batting team then you have a so far and much of the credit Williamson said. sion so it’s important to play out the ses- chance of getting a very good fi rst in- goes to the pace battery If selected, Jamieson would sion while keeping their intent positive. nings total.” which consist of Jasprit join Trent Boult and Tim “They don’t need that much advice. Even if India were bundled out by New Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Southee in a three-pronged They both know their games really well. Zealand on the fi rst day, there was con- Mohamed Shami and Umesh pace attack but Williamson It’s about keeping their mindset right fi dence the bowlers would take wickets Yadav. said it would not be easy to and playing the conditions, that’s cru- at a ground where the hosts stumbled to Williamson further said that fill Wagner’s shoes. cial.” 86-6 in the fi rst innings of the third Test the Basin Reserve track New Zealand, who are at Shaw has played just two Tests, while between the two sides in 2014. does tend to provide a bit of the sixth spot in the World Agarwal has played only nine, but both “We know that our bowlers will take movement and assistance Test Championship with 60 have already proved they can score runs wickets in any conditions,” Rahane said. for the fast bowlers and thus points, had lost their last Test at the highest level. “If you lose the toss and bat fi rst then batsmen need to be careful series in Australia where they The 20-year-old Shaw scored a cen- you just have to have the right mindset as in their shot-selection. were whitewashed in the tury on debut against West Indies in 2018 a batting unit and go out there and domi- “Here in New Zealand, it three-match rubber. IANS but was then injured and suspended for a nate it.” File photo of India’s Ajinkya Rahane during nets. (Reuters) Gulf Times Friday, February 21, 2020 3 SPORT

PAKISTAN SUPER LEAGUE BEGINS

Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan (centre) performs during the opening ceremony of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) at the Spectators stand in a queue to enter the National Cricket Stadium in Karachi yesterday ahead of the National Cricket Stadium in Karachi yesterday. (AFP) start of the PSL T20 match between Quetta Gladiators and Islamabad United. (AFP)

ICC WOMEN’S T20 WORLD CUP RUGBY Wide open weekend epitomises enduring Women in Blue allure of Six Nations

Reuters land two and Italy none. The London young French team, inspired by scrumhalf Antoine Dupont and with a new-found inter- he Six Nations cham- est in defence under the beady face Australia in pionship returns with eye of Shaun Edwards, have a bang this weekend, probably had the most to get featuring three fasci- excited about. India’s skipper Harmanpreet Kaur is equipped Tnatingly-poised matches with However, if there is one op- no outstanding favourite — ponent guaranteed to keep with strength and resilience playing her seventh and even Italy in with a chance them grounded, it is Wales, of ending their 24-game win- who have won eight of the T20 World Cup since her debut in 2009 less run. last nine matches between opener The Italians’ last champi- the sides, including October’s onship victory came against World Cup quarter-fi nal. Scotland in 2015 and they get “We’ve won games but we the action under way in Rome still need victories that we (1445 GMT) desperately hop- will remember for the rest of ing to stop the rot in what our lives,” said France number already looks like a wooden eight Gregory Alldritt. spoon decider. England thumped Ireland Over in Cardiff , Wales, who 32-20 in Dublin last year, beat Italy but lost to Ireland, then put 57 points on them take on France (1645), fresh in a World Cup warm-up at from home wins over England Twickenham — having lost and Italy and seeking their their previous two Six Nations fi rst title in 10 years. meetings. At Twickenham on Sunday The intriguing sub-plot to (1500) England, who got on Sunday’s game is the head to the board with a storm-lashed head between Ireland’s new win over the Scots, take on coach Andy Farrell and Eng- Ireland, who beat Scotland land captain — and his son — and Wales in Dublin. Owen. Both men have played It all makes for a great down the issue, not least be- weekend of rugby, and even cause it has happened several the bookmakers are strug- times previously with Farrell gling to fi nd much between senior in place as Ireland’s de- the teams, albeit with Scot- fence coach. land, England and Wales the “I know it’s weird for you marginal favourites. guys but it’s certainly not It is no real surprise to fi nd weird for us because it’s never no clearly dominant team in a been any diff erent,” Andy Far- post-World Cup year and this rell told reporters while admit- edition, featuring four new ting things were not quite so coaches and four new cap- easy for other members of the tains, has even more of a state family. Ireland are unchanged of fl ux. It also refl ects the ebb while Eddie Jones will name and fl ow of the tournament England’s team today, with a year on year. recall for centre Manu Tuilagi Last season’s champions likely to be the key change and Wales fi nished fi fth two years a much-needed ball-carrying earlier. England won it in 2017 presence after prop Mako Vu- and followed up by fi nishing nipola was ruled out for family fi fth, while Ireland, champi- reasons. ons in their all-conquering Having kicked inspirational 2018, slumped to third last fl yhalf Finn Russell out of the year. camp and seen his team fail Such uncertainty is nothing to score a try while losing to new — since the competition Ireland and England, Scot- India’s captain Harmanpreet Kaur (right) and Australia’s captain Meg Lanning pose with the women’s T20World Cup trophy at Taronga Zoo in Sydney on Monday. (AFP) began as the Four Nations in land coach Gregor Townsend 1883, no team has managed to knows there is no room for IANS supposed replacement is consistently unreliable win it outright three times in talk of development or lessons Sydney with paltry 821 runs and two 50’s in T20I’s in a ca- Aussie quick Vlaeminck out of World Cup a row. learned in Rome. reer span from 2011. Her fi elding and fl at throws In this season’s standings, The same applies to Italy, from boundary are saving grace coupled with Defending champions Australia as the hosts bid to win a fifth World France and Ireland lead the who know a win tomorrow he new-look Indian women’s cricket some notable catches from her tally of 35 catches. suff ered a blow on the eve of Cup title. Off -spinner Molly Strano way with nine points from two is their only realistic chance team is keen on leaving behind the ghost Top fi ve Indian batters will have to bat 60 per the women’s Twenty20 World was drafted in as her replacement. wins and a bonus point. Wales of avoiding a fi fth successive of three semi-fi nals of T20 World Cup in cent of the game, i.e., 12 overs in order to succeed Cup yesterday with young pace “Tayla has been in brilliant form and England are on fi ve, Scot- championship without one. 2009, 2010 and 2018. Statistically, this as the tail is too long and cannot wag the top order. spearhead Tayla Vlaeminck ruled of late and established herself as Ttime around, India look promising and can face Incidentally, Mithali’s absence is a dreadful out of the tournament with a foot one of the premier fast bowlers in defending champions Australia in the fi nal to thought. Ironically, the veteran who retired from injury. The fast bowler, 21, reported international cricket,” he said. be played on March 8 at the Melbourne Cricket T20Is, was sadly acrimoniously accused of slow pain in her foot this week and scans “No one ever wants to see a player Ground. rate. However, her T20I statistics showcase 17 revealed a stress fracture just a day miss a major tournament in these The Women in Blue will begin their campaign fi fties with 2,364 runs in 89 matches in a career ahead of Australia facing India in the kinds of circumstances, but I have against Australia — four-time World Cup winner spanning from 2006 to 2019 with last two years’ opening game of the 10-team event. no doubt she will bounce back from — in the tournament opener at the Sydney Show- strike rate in T20Is at 103. Head coach Matthew Mott said the this setback and play a leading role ground Stadium today. Sans Jhulan Goswami, bowling looks promising squad was disappointed to lose one in Australian squads for many years Etching towards the historical road to the fi nals only in the spin category with Poonam Yadav (No. of the quickest bowlers in the game, to come.” AFP of T20 World Cup is supported by many positives 12, in ICC ranking) leading the pack. Of late, both for Indian eves as they are well equipped and very spinners and wicket keeping have worked in tan- likely to face four-time World Cup winner Aus- dem to pressurize for wickets. tralia in the summit clash. Fielding is erratic, seeking balance. Smriti SCHEDULE Fresh legs, new strokeplay and aggressive body Mandhana, Veda, Harmanpreet and Jemimah Ro- language in the middle will help India to put huge drigues are superb and swift largely in outfi eld. Feb 21: AUS vs IND, Sydney Feb 29: IND vs Sri Lanka, total, as crossing 120-run barrier in the semi-fi - Rest are pretty ordinary resembling their running Showground Melbourne (Junction Oval) nals has been India’s Bete Noire. Batting fi rst, In- between the wickets. In the last fi fteen T20Is, Feb 22: WI vs THA, Perth (WACA) Mar 1: SA vs PAK, Sydney dia lost two successive semifi nals, by posing paltry Indian missed nine close run-outs and possible Feb 22: NZ vs SL, Perth (WACA) (Showground) 119, in 2010 & 112 in 2018. chances. Coach Woorkeri Raman is a seasoned Feb 23: ENG vs SA, Perth (WACA) Mar 1: ENG vs WI, Sydney Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur is equipped with campaigner and is expected to be more commu- Feb 24: AUS vs SL, Perth (WACA) (Showground) strength and resilience playing her seventh T20 nicative from dug-out with his instructions as Feb 24: IND vs BAN, Perth Mar 2: SL vs BAN, Melbourne World Cup since her debut in 2009 in the shorter the team will immensely miss Mithali’s guidance (WACA) (Junction Oval) format. The 30-year-old is the lone survivor from in fi eld placement and Jhulan’s pep talks to the Feb 26: ENG vs THA, Canberra Mar 2: AUS vs NZ, Melbourne the star-studded 2009 Indian squad. bowlers, Undoubtedly, the team seems fairly wet Feb 26: WI vs PAK, Canberra (Junction Oval) The Indian skipper (ranked N0. 9 in ICC rank- behind the ears. Feb 27: IND vs NZ, Melbourne Mar 3: PAK vs THA, Sydney ings) and Deepti Sharma can infl ict more dam- If India have to play in their maiden fi nal, they (Junction Oval) (Showground) age in the middle over with brisk strike rotation. need three important things in the middle. Match Feb 27: AUS vs BAN, Canberra Mar 3: WI vs SA, Sydney Strike rate is best for India of 140.86 since the last maturity during big chase via constant pep talk by Feb 28: SA vs THA, Canberra (Showground) year. Wicketkeepers Taniya Bhatia and Harleen the coach. Secondly, overdependence on spinners Feb 28: ENG v PAK, Canberra Mar 5: Semi-final 1, Sydney (SCG) Deol are clean hitters but need time to settle in and should be avoided and; fi nally fi elding agility in Feb 29: NZ vs BAN, Melbourne Mar 5: Semi-final 1, Sydney (SCG) that’’s where the bad news starts. 30 yards especially to cut boundaries and convert (Junction Oval) March 8: Final, Melbourne (MCG) England’s Owen Farrell (left) during a training session at Veda Krishnamurthy, Mithali Raj’s prodigy and half chances. Pennyhill Park Hotel, Bagshot, Britain, yesterday. (Reuters) Gulf Times 4 Friday, February 21, 2020 SPORT

TENNIS FORMULA 1 Mercedes cause stir by reinventing Federer to miss the steering wheel

Reuters weekends, with teams some- Barcelona times trying out developments they may never race. Asked whether Mercedes ercedes brought were worried the governing French Open aft er intrigue to For- FIA might rule the device ille- mula One testing gal, Allison said they had been yesterday with tel- talking about it for some time, Mevision images showing Lewis safety was not an issue and it Hamilton moving his car’s was within the rules. steering wheel forwards and “This isn’t news to the FIA,” backwards as he drove. he said. “The rules are pretty The mechanism appeared clear about what is permitted knee surgery to alter the alignment of the on steering systems and I’m front wheels, with the six- pretty confi dent that it match- times world champion pulling es all of those requirements.” The 20-times Grand Slam champion struggled with injury at the Australian Open the wheel towards him on the “I’m just pleased we’ve got straights and pushing it back it on the car, it seems to be use- Reuters FOCUS as he approached corners. able and we’ll fi nd out over the Zurich Technical director James Al- coming days how much benefi t lison was coy about the details it brings us.” of a system he said was known Hamilton said he had only oger Federer has said he will miss Muguruza within the team as DAS (Dual- one morning using it, did not a number of tournaments, in- Axis Steering). fi nd it distracting and was en- cluding the French Open, after “It’s novel idea,” he told re- couraged to see his team were undergoing keyhole surgery on shocked porters. “It just introduces an continu1ing to innovate to stay hisR knee in Switzerland yesterday but he is extra dimension to the steering ahead of the game. targeting a return in time for Wimbledon. for the driver that we hope will Allison said the steering The 20-times Grand Slam champion by Brady be useful during the year. wheel represented “only the struggled with injury at the Australian “Precisely how we use tip of the iceberg of simi- Open, where he lost in the semi-fi nals to Dubai: Qualifi er Jennifer Brady it, and why we use it, that’s lar stuff ” hidden out of sight eventual champion Novak Djokovic, and claimed a second seeded victim yes- something we prefer to keep to across the car. has not played since. terday, defeating Garbine Muguruza ourselves.” “Each of the new cars we Federer, 38, said he would miss ATP 6-7 (5/7), 6-3, 6-4 to reach the Du- Mercedes are chasing their bring to the track are festooned tournaments in Dubai, Indian Wells, Bo- bai Championships semi-fi nals. seventh successive title dou- with innovation,” he said. “It’s gota and Miami as well as the French Open The American who ranks just out- ble this season, with Hamilton just they are not always as ob- which starts at the end of May. side the Top 50 followed up on her aiming to equal Michael Schu- vious to you as a stand-alone It will be the fourth time in fi ve years fi rst-round defeat of third seed and macher’s record seven drivers’ system like this where you can that Federer, champion at Roland Garros two-time champion Elina Svitolina titles. see it with your own eyes. for the only time in 2009, has missed the at the Aviation Club. The team started last year “One of the things that gives claycourt slam. “I was able to fi nd a way, I wasn’t with eight wins in a row, de- me massive pride from work- “My right knee has been bothering me feeling my best,” Brady said after spite Ferrari having an impres- ing at Mercedes is to be part of for a little while. I hoped it would go away, seeing off the ninth-seeded Span- sively quick car in testing. a team that doesn’t just turn but after an examination and discussion iard. “Maybe I didn’t play my best Testing is not bound by the the sausage (machine) handle with my team, I decided to have arthro- tennis, but I stayed in there, com- same regulations as grand prix each year.” scopic surgery in Switzerland yesterday,” peted and came out on top.” Federer said in a statement on Twitter. Brady made a recovery from a set “After the procedure, the doctors con- down against two-time Grand Slam SPOTLIGHT fi rmed that it was the right thing to have winner Muguruza. done and are very confi dent of a full recov- The American secured the second ery.” set by breaking her opponent’s last The Swiss skipped the entire claycourt two serves.She fi nished off the upset RTL to cover season in 2017 and 2018 and last year a set later on a second match point played only two tournaments on the sur- as Muguruza put a backhand over face before arriving in Paris for the French the baseline after almost two-and- Vietnam Grand Open where he lost to Rafa Nadal in the a-quarter hours. semi-fi nals. “I knew it was going to be hard His agent told Reuters last week that Fe- because I’ve seen her play and she’s Prix remotely derer was planning on playing only at Ro- having a good run,” Muguruza who land Garros while skipping the Madrid and converted on only one of 10 break Reuters Formula One is also broad- Rome Masters. The French Open begins on points, said. Barcelona cast live in Germany by Sky May 24. “I had so many opportunities, I Deutschland on pay TV. While the prospect of Federer being can’t count how many I had. They Formula One and the teams away from the Tour for so long will dismay didn’t go my way. erman free-to-air have already sent sea freight his vast army of fans, they can be encour- File photo of Switzerland’s “Every time I had an opportunity, broadcaster RTL will to Vietnam, the third round aged that his decision to undergo knee sur- Roger Federer. she was playing well the point, serv- cover the Vietnamese of the season which starts in gery for a second time seems designed to ing big, making winners.” Formula One Grand Australia on March 15. extend his career. GPrix remotely due to the spread Red Bull team principal “I can’t wait to be back playing again of the coronavirus in the re- Christian Horner told report- soon, see you on the grass,” Federer added gion, it said in a statement. ers at testing in Spain yester- on his Twitter page. Xian Open tennis cancelled in China over coronavirus outbreak The Chinese GP originally day that the initial feedback Federer has proved in the past that he scheduled for Shanghai on from Formula One manage- can return to his peak after an injury layoff . Hong Kong: April’s Xian Open tennis was on the WTA Tour, was scheduled to take there isn’t anything more important than April 19 was called off last ment was that the race would He had knee surgery to repair a torn me- cancelled yesterday, the WTA Tour said, place on April 13-19. It also puts into protecting the health of our players, WTA week, with the hope of re- go ahead as planned. niscus in 2016 and missed the second half becoming the latest sporting event to fall doubt the Kunming Open, another 125K and event staff , and our fans. scheduling later in the year, “We just follow their lead on of that season as he struggled to recover. victim to the new coronavirus outbreak in tournament, which starts on April 27. “We continue to communicate with but a street race in the Viet- it,” he said. But he returned in style to win the 2017 China. More than 2,100 people have died “Our thoughts are with everyone in China medical experts as information evolves namese capital Hanoi remains Horner sounded doubtful, Australian Open, ending a near fi ve-year from the virus, most of them in China, during this diff icult time and we look on this virus and we will work closely with on for April 5. however, about the chances of Grand Slam title drought. where a raft of sports tournaments have forward to the WTA Tour events that are them to monitor the situation.” Local offi cials told Reuters the Chinese round being re- Federer’s ranking will drop from its cur- been cancelled or postponed in recent scheduled to take place this fall,” said a The Chinese Formula One Grand Prix, this month that Vietnam had scheduled or replaced by an- rent three but he is still likely to be seeded weeks. WTA statement. which was supposed to take place on quarantined a community of other venue. in the top 10 at Wimbledon where he will The Xian Open, a lower-level 125K event “We are watching the situation closely as April 19, was postponed last week. 10,000 people near Hanoi for “I think you’ve got to look at be seeking a record-extending ninth title. 20 days because of fears the the logistics of it. It’s a tough coronavirus could spread there calendar this year and if it were from neighbouring China. to go Brazil-China-Abu Dhabi, BOTTOMLINE RTL said in a statement on that’s a big ask at that time of its website (www.rtl.de) that year from all the staff . it felt the health risks were too “We’d have to look at that high to send staff to Vietnam and consider that very care- Qatar Airways, QDF to sponsor Qatar Total Open for the race. fully.” “Instead, the entire produc- Brazil is due to be the pe- atar Airways and Qatar as our sponsors. QTF believes tion of the live broadcast will nultimate race of the season Duty Free (QDF) are that more lies ahead for these be relocated to Cologne,” it on Nov. 15, with Abu Dhabi the sponsors of the Qa- great organisations as we contin- said. fi nal round on Nov. 29. Qtar Total Open Tennis ue to lift the profi le of tennis high Tournament 2020 at the Khalifa in Qatar and in the region.” International Tennis and Squash Qatar Airways is proud to have Marquez extends Honda contract till 2024 Complex in Doha. The tourna- developed a wide range of global Paris: MotoGP world team who gave him his start ment begins tomorrow and runs sports sponsorships, support- champion Marc Marquez in the sport. through to Saturday, February 29. ing top-level sporting events has extended his contract “Honda gave me the The 23-year-old Ashleigh and some of the world’s biggest with Honda until the end of opportunity to arrive in the Barty from Australia, currently football clubs. As offi cial FIFA 2024, the Japanese team MotoGP class with a factory ranked world No. 1 in singles by partner, Qatar Airways recently announced yesterday. bike in 2013,” he said. the Women’s Tennis Associa- sponsored the FIFA Club World “Honda Racing Corp are “Since the first year we have tion, is leading the champions Cup Qatar 2019 and will sponsor delighted to announce six- achieved success together competing in the 2020 Qatar the FIFA Club World Cup 2020 time MotoGP world champion and I am very happy to Total Open. She is joined by edition ahead of the FIFA World Marc Marquez has signed continue being part of the some of the world’s top players, Cup Qatar 2022. a four-year extension of his Honda family.” including 27 year old Karolina Qatar Airways will also spon- contract and will continue to Since joining Honda Pliskova from Czech Republic sor the upcoming fi rst edition of race with the factory team after winning the Moto2 and Simona Halep, the 28 year the Qatar Airways International until at least December 2024,” championship in 2013 old from Romania who has twice Tournament from 26-30 March the team said in a statement. Marquez has won six of the been ranked world No. 1 in sin- 2020. The inaugural event will Marquez, 27, said he was last seven MotoGP world gles in recent years. feature top national football “proud” to remain with the titles. Qatar Airways and QDF will teams Belgium, Croatia, Portu- host special booths in the spon- gal and Switzerland. The airline Danson-Bennett forced to quit hockey sors’ village, off ering all tourna- sponsorship portfolio. Through ety of world-class events.” aligned with the Qatar National is also proud to sponsor premier ment attendees a taste of their our global sponsorships that span Qatar Duty Free Vice Presi- Vision 2030. We invite spectators sporting clubs around the world, London: Britain’s Olympic long-term concussion since world-renowned fi ve star serv- a variety of sports including ten- dent Operations, Thabet Mu- at the tournament to discover the including leading German foot- gold medal-winning former hitting her head against a ices. The Qatar Airways booth nis, soccer and golf, we are en- sleh, said: “Qatar Duty Free is QDF booth at the entertainment ball team FC Bayern München women’s hockey captain concrete wall while throwing will feature an interactive green suring that Qatar is established as proud to be a key partner to one village for a chance to win excit- AG, Italian football club AS Alex Danson-Bennett her head back to laugh at screen where guests can get a world-class venue for top global of the most high profi le annual ing prizes, courtesy of Qatar Duty Roma, France’s most successful has been forced to retire her husband’s joke while on their photos printed on stunning sports events. sporting events that takes place Free. Tournament Director Saad football club Paris Saint-Ger- because of a head injury holiday in Kenya. Six weeks virtual backgrounds, while the “Qatar was once known as a in Doha. This year, the tourna- al-Mohannadi said: “It has al- main and Argentinian club Boca sustained while laughing at after the incident she was QDF booth will feature a guess- hidden gem. This is no longer ment is a WTA Premier ATP 500 ways been a pleasure to host each Juniors. a joke in 2018. The 34-year- rushed to hospital with a ing game, off ering participants true as the world is now seeing series with a bigger draw of 56 edition of Qatar Total Open, par- Qatar Duty Free has also spon- old Danson-Bennett, part suspected bleed, being the chance to win exciting QDF Qatar for the fantastic country single players over the course ticularly with the great support sored the Commercial Bank Golf of the British team that violently sick and having prizes. it is. In addition to the beauti- of seven days. “Last month, we we’ve enjoyed from our partners Masters since 2009 and, this won hockey gold in Rio de seizures. The effects have Qatar Airways Senior Vice- ful weather that Qatar off ers, the sponsored the 29th edition of the and supporters of tennis in Qa- year, extended its sponsorship of Janeiro in 2016, had hoped included a “loss of identity”, President Marketing and Cor- world-class facilities available Qatar ExxonMobil Open along tar - Qatar Airways & Qatar Duty this sport to the annual TFWA to feature at this year’s debilitating headaches, porate Communications, Salam here in Doha, coupled with the with Qatar Airways and we are Free. We are grateful for their tre- Golf Tournament at the TFWA Tokyo Games. light sensitivity and speech al-Shawa, said: “Qatar Airways is warm Qatar hospitality, make it delighted to continue to support mendous support over the years World Exhibition & Conference She has been suffering with problems. very proud of its extensive sports the perfect destination for a vari- major sporting events that are and we are delighted to have them in Cannes. Times Friday, February 21, 2020 5 SPORT

NBA SPOTLIGHT Beilein resigns as Cavaliers coach Lakers still sorting aft er 14-40 run

AFP like a bunch of “thugs”. The Cavs Washington snapped a 12-game home los- ing streak just before the break but have lost fi ve games in a row ohn Beilein, unable to or more fi ve diff erent times this out how to improve spark the moribund season. Cleveland Cavaliers above “This was a very diffi cult de- the second-worst record cision for me, but I want to be ‘I think we kind of got inJ the NBA this season, resigned clear – this was my decision to as coach of the struggling club step down and I truly appreci- our defensive intensity on Wednesday. ate the understanding and sup- The 67-year-old American, port of the front offi ce during back a little bit’ who left the University of Michi- this time,” Beilein said. “I fi nd title chances gan coaching post last May after losing very challenging and this TCA/DPA 12 seasons to take charge of the year has taken a much bigger toll Los Angeles Cavs, will be reassigned to a dif- on me than I expected. I grew ferent role within the organisa- concerned for the consequences tion, the team announced. this toll could potentially take on uring his All-Star “Over these last nine months, my own health and my family’s game news confer- I have given my all to this organi- well-being down the road.” ence, Los Angeles sation, but after much refl ection, Cavaliers general manager Lakers coach Frank I have decided that it is best that Koby Altman praised Beilein’s VogelD said his family was up- I step back and resign from my impact as he looked to trying to set with him for coaching the position as head coach of the rebuild the club in the wake of team with the best record in the Cleveland Cavaliers and assist LeBron James leaving for the Los Western Conference this season the organisation in a diff erent Angeles Lakers in 2018 after lift- instead of next season. capacity,” Beilein said. ing the club into the NBA Finals His team’s winning record Associate head coach J.B. for four consecutive years. They meant his staff was selected to Bickerstaff was elevated to re- went 19-63 last season. coach in the All-Star game, but place Beilein as the full-time “We understand and respect a staff can’t coach two years in head coach, the league an- his decision to step down,” Alt- a row, and next year’s contest is nounced. The Cavaliers, who man said. “I was excited about in Indiana, where Vogel and his return to action Friday at Wash- the development of our young family spent nearly a decade. ington, were 14-40 at the NBA players, who have all shown It was just a little joke, All-Star Game break, last in the growth and maturity under though. Vogel and his team Eastern Conference with only coach Beilein. worked hard during the last fi ve Golden State (12-43) owning a “The NBA is a unique business months to ensure their position worse record. that sometimes requires aggres- in the standings. Beilein struggled to calm a sive risk-taking on important He didn’t make any plans locker room issue after claim- long-term decisions to move a for All-Star weekend, know- ing he misspoke when telling his franchise forward and ultimately ing there was a good chance he team they were no longer playing compete for championships.” would be busy. Their goal of winning a championship be- comes more acute with each NFL expected to expand playoff fi eld passing day. “We have two of the best The NFL is expected to add two thing that does not happen players in the world and a great playoff teams and reduce the under the current CBA. support system around them,” number of teams getting a play- The biggest sticking point in Vogel said. off bye in the next collective recent weeks when it came “To reach the conference fi - bargaining agreement, and that to hammering out a new CBA nals, the NBA Finals and win a agreement could be completed was reportedly over whether championship, a lot of things within a week, ESPN’s Adam the league would add the 17th have to fall your way. I’m hope- Schefter reported Wednesday game to the regular season. ful we’re able to achieve that.” night. According to the report, Schefter reported that is still Most of the team will have league sources indicated to one of the “final issues” to be had a full week off when they ESPN the proposal would have worked out, and that a 17th reconvene for the fi nal portion seven teams from each confer- regular-season game would not of the season. Those who didn’t ence qualify for the playoff s, up be added to the schedule until because they were part of All- from six. Only one team from 2021 at the earliest. Star weekend still got a break. each conference would receive The current CBA was ratified “By the commissioner al- a bye in the wild-card round, in 2011 and is set to expire lowing an actual week to hap- down from two teams. following the 2020 season. “I’d pen,” James said of the change In this file photo taken on February 16, 2020, LeBron James of Team LeBron celebrates after beating Team Giannis during the 69th NBA Had that format been in place be very surprised if there’s not from four days off to a full week. All-Star Game at the United Center in Chicago. (AFP) for the 2019 season, the Pitts- a new CBA for the new league “With that change, it’s defi - burgh Steelers (8-8) and Los year,” a source told Schefter. nitely helped out a lot not only games ahead of the Denver before the break came with to our defensive ways – not to sign anyone by March 1 if they Angeles Rams (9-7) would have Meanwhile the Los Angeles for the guys that are not a part Nuggets for best record in the a measure of panic and cau- just this game, but last game as are to be eligible for the playoff s. made the playoff s. The addition Rams have promoted Sophie of All-Star weekend, but for Western Conference. tion. They worried the most well – is defi nitely inspiring and Whether additions are made, of a proposed 17th regular-sea- Luoto to the team’s director of the guys that are part of it. I try They will immediately fi nd when their defensive intensity something that we got to keep the team knows its goal. As far son game could have furthered football operations, making her to fi nd at least a couple days themselves thrown into a slate slipped. They seemed to recover going.” as James is concerned, the proc- altered that scenario. “That’s the organisation’s highest-rank- to kind of decompress and get of challenging games. They’ll that intensity in the weeks be- James and Davis both felt ess is what truly matters. been agreed to for a long time,” ing woman involved in the foot- away from the game.” face the fore the break. good about where the Lakers “You understand you played a source familiar with the CBA ball administration, according The group who were part Memphis Grizzlies at Staples “I think we kind of got our were heading into the break. some good basketball along the talks told Schefter about the to multiple reports Wednesday. of the game included Dwight Center on Friday and then host defensive intensity back a little Their front offi ce did, too. The way, played some not good bas- popularity of the proposed Luoto, 31, had been working Howard, who participated in the Boston Celtics, who beat bit,” Davis said last week after a Lakers dipped their toes in the ketball,” he said. playoff changes. “There wasn’t in the Rams player personnel Saturday’s dunk contest; James; them in Boston, on Sunday. Wednesday win over the Denver trade market but weren’t will- “But you want to continue to a lot of disagreement to that is- department as the manager of Anthony Davis, who played in March features three teams the Nuggets. ing to pay the high cost of ac- get better and continue to trust sue.” According to Schefter, the football administration, and her the game; and the entire Lak- Lakers have yet to defeat - the “I think that’s something quiring some of the league’s the process. We look forward to teams that get the first-round new position makes her one ers staff , which coached Team Milwaukee Bucks, Philadelphia that we’re going to continue to available players. They are still when we get back, getting back bye would get postseason pay of the NFL’s highest-ranking LeBron. 76ers and Los Angeles Clippers. have in the ... ‘second half’ of keeping an eye on potential on the fl oor and seeing how far for that weekend of rest, some- female executives. At 41-12, the Lakers are four Each loss the Lakers suff ered the season. So to see us get back buyout candidates and will need we’ll continue to grow.”

NHL Pastrnak’s OT goal leads surging Bruins past Oilers Reuters notched his 500th career assist. RESULTS Edmonton The teams combined for just two goals over the fi rst 40 minutes be- Rangers 6-3 Chicago fore erupting for seven in just over an avid Pastrnak scored on a Dallas 3-2 Arizona 11-minute stretch during the third pe- breakaway at 1:14 of overtime Boston 2-1 Edmonton riod. as the Boston Bruins defeated Kreider absorbed a big hit from Florida 4-1 Anaheim the host Edmonton Oilers 2-1 Kubalik behind the net before feed- WednesdayD night in a matchup of divi- Colorado 3-1 Islanders ing Buchnevich, who beat Robin Leh- sion leaders. Minnesota 4-3 Vancouver ner (35 saves) from in close to give New Pastrnak took a long lead pass from York a 2-1 lead at 2:33 of the third pe- David Krejci and beat Edmonton goal- and slid a forehander past Smith from riod. Buchnevich’s goal was his 14th of tender Mike Smith. It was Pastrnak’s the top of the crease. the season and seventh in his past 12 43rd goal of the season, tying him for It was the 27th goal of the season for games. the NHL lead with Toronto’s Auston Bergeron, who has eight points (fi ve Strome doubled the advantage at Matthews. goals, three assists) during a six-game 4:01 of the third, as he located the puck Patrice Bergeron also scored for scoring streak. with his backside to the net before Boston, which won its fourth straight The Oilers, who have the top power- turning and wiring a shot inside the game and for the 10th time in its past play percentage in the league, tied it at right post. 11 to remain atop the Atlantic Division 3:42 of the third with the man advan- Kubalik answered just over two min- and the Presidents’ Trophy race. The tage. Ethan Bear’s wrist shot from the utes later with his second goal of the Bruins have allowed just 12 goals over left point was tipped into the upper night before Kreider gave New York a their past 10 games. right corner of the net by Gagner. Ryan 4-2 lead at 8:48 of the third after scor- Boston goalie Tuukka Rask made Nugent-Hopkins also got an assist on ing on a partial breakaway. 28 saves to improve to 6-1-0 since re- the goal. Edmonton was 1-for-6 on the A turnover from Chicago’s Dylan turning from a concussion sustained power play, and the Bruins, who are Strome resulted in Panarin’s goal just Jan. 14. ranked second with the man advan- 53 seconds later. Caggiula scored at Sam Gagner scored the lone goal for tage, were 0-for-7. 11:39 to slice Chicago’s defi cit to two, Pacifi c Division-leading Edmonton, Oilers center Connor McDavid but Zibanejad responded to give the and Smith made 32 saves. The Oilers missed his fi fth straight game with a Rangers a 6-3 lead with 6:23 remaining lost for just the second time in their left quad injury. Edmonton was also in the third. Chytil converted from the past six games (4-1-1) and had a two- without defenseman Oscar Klefbom, left circle to open the scoring 1:58 of game winning streak snapped. the quarterback of its power play, as the fi rst period. He nearly doubled the The Bruins opened the scoring at he’ll be sidelined two to three weeks Boston Bruins forward David Pastrnak scores the overtime winning goal against Edmonton Oilers goaltender Mike Smith at advantage early in the second period, 8:28 of the fi rst period after an Ed- with a shoulder injury. Rogers Place in Edmonton. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports but Toews prevented the puck from monton turnover just outside its own crossing the goal line. blue line. Pastrnak fed a cross-ice pass 5-GOAL THIRD PERIOD PUSHES tory over the Chicago Blackhawks on fi ve of their past six overall. New York Rookie Dominik Kubalik scored Keith recorded his milestone assist to Brad Marchand on the left wing, RANGERS PAST BLACKHAWKS Wednesday. Artemi Panarin scored rookie Igor Shesterkin overcame an twice, Drake Caggiula had a goal and to forge a tie at 2:29 of the second pe- and Marchand took a couple of strides Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad each his team-leading 30th goal, and Pavel inadvertent stick inside his mask from an assist, and Toews had two assists riod. The 36-year-old veteran wired a before fl oating a pass into the slot for collected a goal and two assists during Buchnevich, Ryan Strome and Filip Chicago captain Jonathan Toews to for the Blackhawks, who have dropped diagonal pass to Kubalik, whose one- Bergeron, who had a step on his de- the Rangers’ fi ve-goal third period as Chytil also tallied for the Rangers, who make 37 saves and improve to 7-1-0 in seven of their past eight games (1-5- timer from deep in the right circle fender. Bergeron deked to his backhand visiting New York skated to a 6-3 vic- have won six in a row on the road and eight career starts. 2). Chicago defenseman Duncan Keith sailed inside the near post. Gulf Times 6 Friday, February 21, 2020 FOOTBALL

AL KASS INTERNATIONAL CUP SPOTLIGHT Rampant Real Housni sends thrash Kashiwa By Sports Reporter Real went 2-0 up on 39 min- Doha utes and again Exposito began the move. He found Lancha, who showed neat skill before playing eal Madrid took their the ball wide to Abraham on the tally to 16 goals in just right wing and he sent in a cross former champions three matches as they towards Exposito who had burst swept aside 2018 run- into the box. He slid in to try ners-upR Kashiwa Reysol to reach and add the fi nish but Kashiwa the semi-fi nals of the Al Kass defender Kai Adachi challenged International Cup. The 2017 and sent the ball into his own net. champions have produced some Just a minute later it was 3-0 sensational attacking play in this as Lancha found Dave Pecellin PSG into semis tournament and they tore apart (Pece) who teed up Abraham to Kashiwa to set up a last-four send in a brilliant long-range ef- clash with tournament debu- fort that Itoh just got a hand to PSG will face Inter Milan in the semi-finals, which is likely to be a tighter aff air tants Mohammed XI Academy. but was unable to keep out. Real Kashiwa began with a very de- added a fourth in the fi rst minute fensive outlook and the ball rare- of added on time when Abraham ly left their half in the opening played the ball into the feet of 20 minutes as they were content player of the match Lancha who to sit back and soak up constant turned Toru Nishimura and then Real Madrid pressure. The Japa- had a simple fi nish. nese side did have a promising Having scored four goals in 16 counter-attack on 25 minutes minutes, Real would have wanted when Isshin Takizawa broke the the half to carry on. It had been off side trap to latch onto a long a dominant 45 minutes with all ball but he was unable to create a eight shots coming from Real, shooting opportunity. who also enjoyed 60% posses- The match’s fi rst shot on tar- sion. Real brought on Eric Gomez get came on 27 minutes when for the start of the second half inspirational midfi elder Nico and he took just four minutes to Paz sent a long-range eff ort fi nd the net. Exposito played the that keeper Takumi Itoh failed ball to Gomez and he beat Itoh to hold but there was no one to from a very tight angle. follow up. Real fi nally made the Ito was beaten again just three breakthrough on 30 minutes minutes later as Gomez crossed when Samuel Exposito won the for Abraham who laid the ball ball and fed Yeray Lancha, who back to Pece who sent in a low sent skipper David Jimenez away shot past the keeper. down the right. His well-placed It took until the 87th minute cross found the head of Abraham for Real to add a seventh, and it Nobrega who netted his fi rst goal came in bizarre circumstances. of the tournament. Pece turned the ball onto his left Exposito went close to extend- foot and sent a shot crashing onto ing Real’s lead but his curling the bar with the ball hitting Jaime shot from the left went just past Amaro and going in, without the Paris Saint Germain’s Ilyes the post but then two goals in as midfi elder knowing much about Housni is ecstatic after scoring many minutes killed off Kashi- it. It was a superb performance against Zenit St Petersburg at the wa’s hopes of reaching their third from the Spaniards, who had 21 Al Kass International Cup successive semi-fi nal. shots to Kashiwa’s one. yesterday. PICTURE: Jayaram

By Sports Reporter ni. Ismael Gharbi, the two-goal hero in same pair combined again to great eff ect. PSG were creating wave after wave Doha PSG’s 3-0 victory over Kashiwa Reysol, Housni picked up the ball on the left of attacks and Bitshiabu fi red over after began the move with a delightful cross- and jinked past Iuri Koledin before cross- Americo set up yet another opening, but fi eld pass to fi nd Americo wide on the ing for Odobert to head home from close the French did grab a fourth when Housni hree-time champions Paris Saint left, and he fed the ball inside to Housni range in the second minute of added on netted his second of the match. Germain produced the most who curled a brilliant eff ort beyond Zenit time. It was a goal PSG fully deserved but Tade teed up the long-haired striker dominant display of the tourna- keeper Bogdan Moskvichev. the Russian defending should have been and he scored at the second time of ask- ment as they smashed fi ve unan- It was a goal reminiscent of Hassan Aq- better as Odobert had far too much space. ing after Moskivchev had saved his fi rst sweredT goals past FC Zenit St Petersburg boub’s eff ort of 24 hours earlier when the Akim Belokhonov came on for Ilia Ro- eff ort. to reach the semi-fi nals of the Al Kass In- Moroccan curled home an almost iden- dionov at half-time and within fi ve min- There was still time for Housni to com- ternational Cup at Aspire yesterday. tical shot during Mohammed XI Acad- utes he had missed two glorious oppor- plete his hat-trick when fi ring home Enzo Player of the match Ilyes Housni took emy’s victory over Glasgow Rangers. tunities, but from then on it was all PSG. Tayamoutou’s cross on 87 minutes. It was the plaudits with a fi ne hat-trick but it The longer the half went on, the more They extended their lead on 58 minutes the fourth goal of the tournament for was a night when all of the PSG players comfortable PSG seemed, and whenever when Americo found the impressive Vi- Housni, who had netted with a perfectly- impressed, and Zenit has no answer. In Zenit did attack the Parisian defence was moj Mungu on the left and he crossed for executed chip in the 2-2 draw with Barce- fact, the Russians – who have conceded resolute with skipper El Chadaille Bitshi- Gharbi to sidefoot home. lona during the group stages. 14 goals in three matches — could have abu leading by example with an assured Americo had a penalty appeal turned PSG will now face Inter Milan in the lost by many more as PSG created a host performance at the back. down and was then denied by a point- semi-fi nals, which is likely to be a tighter of chances with Jouvence Americo and Odobert crossed for Housni in the blank save from Moskivchev. The keeper aff air as the Italians have conceded just Wilson Odobert enjoying fi ne matches on closing stages of the fi rst half but his pulled off another fi ne save from Mungu two goals in their three matches so far, the fl anks. tame eff ort failed to trouble Moskvichev, but the ball fell invitingly to Yohan Tade despite making several changes through- The opener came on 13 minutes cour- although the Russian keeper was soon who had an open goal but somehow shoot out the competition. tesy of a superb curling eff ort by Hous- picking the ball out of the net after the wide. Action from the match between Real Madrid and Kashiwa.

RAYYAN AIM FOR TOP SPOT QNB STARS LEAGUE WITH WIN OVER AL KHOR Doha: Al Rayyan travel to Al Lucca Borges, who represented Lowry’s strike denies Gharafa victory Khor today with an aim to Rayyan in the 2018-19 season, usurp Al Duhail from the top in the winter transfer window. By Sports Reporter of the table in the QNB Stars Rayyan had beaten Al Khor 2-0 Doha League. Rayyan are second in in the first leg. the standings with 31 points, “We know the importance two less than Duhail. The Lions of this game. We play against hane Lowry’s strike helped Al Ahli had pulled off a coup in the a strong team whose capabili- hold Al Gharafa 1-1 in the QNB previous round by defeating Al ties need not be talked about. Stars League at the Al Ahli Sta- Duhail 1-0. They have many outstanding dium yesterday. Ahmed Alaaeldin putS Gharafa ahead in the 66th minute, It is the second time in suc- players. We have studied our cessive weeks that Al Khor and opponents and we know their but Lowry’s 71st minute strike helped Al Rayyan are facing off as the strengths and weaknesses,” Al Ahli level things up. latter beat the former in the Khor coach Omar Najhi. It was a mammoth eff ort by Ahli af- Ooredoo Cup quarter-finals in “It is a diff icult match, but we ter they had to play with 10 men from sudden death. are ready, especially since it the 23rd minute as Jasem Mohamed was Rayyan coach Diego Aguirre will be played at our stadium. shown a red card for his foul on Alaael- said his players need to be at We are doing a good job during din. Gharafa had more of the ball in the their top level to keep their our training sessions. But we fi rst half, but Al Ahli created more op- title chances alive. “I think our pay the price for committing portunities. Gharafa’s injured trio of Hec- team ready and focused on the some mistakes,” he added. tor Moreno, Koo Ja-Cheol and Sofi ane title race, which can be very Meanwhile, Qatar SC host Hanni were back in action, but they could stressful and distracts players’ Al Sailiya in an another match. not do much. Koo headed wide narrowly minds. Presently, all our focus Qatar SC are in ninth place with and Homam Elamin sent a booming shot is on the next game against 16 points. The Kings’ perform- straight to goalkeeper Ivanildo Rodriguez. Al Khor. I always direct the ance has improved vastly after At the other end, captain Nabil El Zhar players to avoid thinking about former Qatar international and Abdulrahman Mohamed led Al Ahli’s the results of other teams. I say Wesam Rizik replaced Spaniard charge. After a barren fi rst half, Al Ghara- let us win the next game and Carlos Alos Ferrer at their helm. fa upped the ante in the second. Alaael- then we think about the other They held strong contend- din found the mark after being set up by opponents,” he said ers and leaders Al Duhail, Al Jonathan Kodjia following a through pass. “Facing Al Khor is very dif- Wakrah and Al Gharafa all to Lowry’s equaliser came off a cross from ficult. The danger is not from goalless draws in the previous the right by Abdulrasheed Umaru. It was the fact that Al Khor are in a rounds to remain unbeaten the second time in successive weeks that diff icult position, but from the ever since the start of second Al Ahli and Al Gharafa were facing off as level they show against us. I be- leg of the tournament. the former beat the latter 1-0 in the Oore- lieve what is required is that we Al Sailiya, on the other hand, doo Cup quarter-fi nals. must be at the top of our level are going through tough times. The Brigadiers had also reached the until we achieve the victory. I They are on 17 points and are Amir Cup quarterfi nals by beating Qa- know that our players can be at in one place below Qatar SC. tar SC 2-1 two weeks ago. The Cheetahs their best,” said Aguirre. The Peregrines had lost their had bowed out of the Amir Cup in the Al Ahli’s Abdulrasheed Umaru (right) slides to tackle Al Gharafa’s Jonathan Kodjia during the QNB Stars League match Al Khor, meanwhile are 2020 AFC Champions League pre-quarter-fi nal stage after losing 0-1 yesterday. PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil struggling at 10th place with play-off to Iran’s Shahr Kodro, to Second Division side Al Markhiya be- just 10 points. They are in the thus failing to book a berth in fore they suff ered the setback in Ooredoo up their socks sooner if they are to stay Ahmed Akaichi, and Al Arabi’s Pierre- started off the tournament’s second leg danger zone alongside Al Sha- the tournament proper. Cup, where they were two-time defend- away from the danger zone. Michelle Lassoga and Marc Muniesa all well by beating Al Gharafa 2-1, but they hania and Umm Salal. Sailiya, who began their ing champions. For Arabi, the result was a setback in tried hard to break the deadlock, in vain. then lost 2-4 to Al Sadd and 1-4 to Al Al Khor, in their bid to im- campaign in the second leg of In another match, Al Shahania held their bid to fi nish among the top four and Shahania goalkeeper Ebrahim Daryoush Wakrah. prove their results, had off load- QNB Stars League by losing 1-2 hosts Al Arabi to a goalless draw. Shaha- thus stand a chance for an AFC Cham- and his Al Arabi counterpart Mahmoud Al Arabi cruised to the Ooredoo Cup ed Brazilian Wagner Ferreira to Al Khor, then lost 0-1 to Al nia and Arabi now have nine and 20 points pions League berth. It was an even game Ibrahim stood fi rm as the stalemate con- semifi nals last week by defeating Al Wak- and recruited his compatriot Ahli and 0-3 to Al Sadd. respectively. With only seven rounds of right throughout. tinued. rah 1-0. They have also reached the Amir action remaining, Shahania need to pull Shahania’s attackers Ali Ferydoon and It may be recalled that Al Shahania had Cup quarterfi nals after edging Al Khor. Gulf Times Friday, February 21, 2020 7 FOOTBALL

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE LA LIGA Barcelona use rule Mourinho sees no to sign Braithwaite AFP for struggling Leganes, who will Madrid not be able to bring in a replace- ment unless an exception is made by La Liga. Leganes sit 19th in the arcelona have con- table and play 17th-placed Celta fi rmed the signing of Vigo tomorrow. bright side for Spurs Danish forward Mar- Braithwaite was their top tin Braithwaite from scorer this season with six goals. BLeganes after capitalising on a But the 28-year-old’s addition curious La Liga rule to ease their will give cover for Barcelona, shortage of options up front. who were already without Luis Barca have taken advantage Suarez to a knee injury before of the regulation that enables Dembele’s extended absence was without Son, Kane Spanish clubs in the top two di- confi rmed. visions to buy from another La The club applied for permis- Liga club outside the transfer sion last week to make an emer- Werner’s penalty gives Leipzig a lead to defend on home soil on March 10 window if they lose a player to gency signing and were given the injury for more than fi ve months. green light by La Liga on Monday. Ousmane Dembele is expected Braithwaite could make his debut to be out for the rest of the season when Barca play Eibar at Camp with a hamstring tear, allowing Nou in the league tomorrow but the Catalans to sign Braithwaite the rule states he will not be al- after paying the Dane’s 18mn lowed to play in the Champions euro buy-out clause. League. His arrival comes after After also selling Youssef En- the club allowed Carles Perez to Nesyri to Sevilla last month, join Roma and Abel Ruiz to leave Braithwaite’s exit is a cruel blow for Braga last month.

PREMIER LEAGUE De Bruyne lift s Man City spirits AFP Live TV coverage and grid- Manchester locked early evening Manches- ter traffi c also did not help sup- porters arrive in good time for a anchester City fi xture in which their team was cruised to a 2-0 win seeking to close the 25-point gap over West Ham on to leaders Liverpool. Wednesday night as It was a curiously subdued MPep Guardiola’s side returned to atmosphere, therefore, rather action for the fi rst time following than the expected frenzied the club’s shock two-year ban demonstration of anti-UEFA from European competitions. rhetoric. Goals from Rodri and Kevin De There were a couple of home- Bruyne lifted City’s spirits as made banners proclaiming they cemented their hold on sec- “UEFA Cartel” and “UEFA Ma- ond place in the Premier League. fi a”, as well as chants of adula- The Champions League and tion praising City owner Sheikh Europa League suspension for Mansour and boss Guardiola. alleged fi nancial fair-play regu- There were also taunts to UEFA lations drew a furious response that “we’ll see you in court” and over the weekend from City sup- crude songs aimed at the govern- porters who have long believed ing body. UEFA hold an agenda against But not until Rodri headed their Abu Dhabi-owned club. City into a 29th minute lead did RB Leipzig’s Timo Werner (second right) celebrates after scoring against Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League last 16 first leg match in London. (Reuters) Yet the attendance at the Eti- City fans become truly animated had Stadium for the visit of David as their team maintained their AFP Tottenham upset the odds to progress well from Lucas Moura and Steven Berg- minutes. However, their best eff ort came Moyes’ struggling side was dis- complete dominance against the London past Manchester City and Ajax to reach wijn fi red the rebound wide early in the from a set-piece when Giovani lo Celso’s appointing, with approximately visitors. It is fair to say, however, last season’s fi nal. But it was Leipzig who second period. powerful free-kick was turned onto the 10,000 empty seats greeting the that there will be a very diff erent looked the seasoned Champions League However, after grinding out wins over post by Gulacsi. two sets of players before kick-off . atmosphere when City next play ose Mourinho fears his side’s sea- team in their fi rst ever knockout tie in the Manchester City, Norwich, Southamp- That may have been due, in part, at the Etihad in the Champions son is running out of gas after an competition. After receiving the news ton and Aston Villa in recent weeks de- ATALANTA THRASH VALENCIA ON to the fact the fi xture was resched- League, with Real Madrid the injury-hit Spurs slumped to a 1-0 that Son would be sidelined by a frac- spite conceding plenty of chances, Spurs’ NIGHT TO ‘REMEMBER FOREVER’ uled from its original date 10 days visitors on March 17 in the last- defeat at home to RB Leipzig in the tured right arm on the eve of the game, luck ran out. An ill-timed lunge from Ben Meanwhile, Atalanta coach Gian Piero earlier due to storms. 16 second leg. fiJ rst leg of their Champions League last Mourinho compared his side’s prospects Davies chopped down Konrad Laimer Gasperini hailed a performance his club 16 tie on Wednesday night. for the rest of the season to hanging from inside the area just before the hour mark will “remember forever” after the Italian Spurs could be without the talismanic a fourth-fl oor building by the balcony. and Werner confi dently converted the re- side crushed Valencia 4-1 to take a giant duo of Harry Kane and Son Heung-min The hosts could easily have fallen fl at sulting penalty. step closer to reaching the Champions for the rest of the season through injury on their face inside the fi rst 90 seconds as Moments later only a fi ne save by League quarter-fi nals for the fi rst time. and looked toothless against the Bundes- Leipzig amazingly passed up four chanc- Lloris denied Schick a second at the end Dutch wing-back Hans Hateboer liga contenders. “We are in a very diffi cult es to open the scoring through Patrik of a fl owing move involving Christopher scored twice on 16 and 62 minutes, sand- situation,” said Mourinho. “What worries Schick, Angelino and Werner. “In the fi rst Nkunku, Angelino and a delightful dum- wiching goals from Josip Ilicic and Remo me is this is going to be the situation until fi ve minutes we should have taken the my from Werner to tee up his strike part- Freuler. It was an extraordinary night for the end of the season.” lead,” added Nagelsmann. “Young teams ner. “If I could, I would move immediate- the side from Bergamo who travelled to Tottenham captain Hugo Lloris kept can become impatient thinking they have ly to the fi rst of July with Kane, (Moussa) the San Siro with over 40,000 of their his side in the tie with a string of impor- to score an away goal in the fi rst leg, but Sissoko, Son, Lucas, (Erik) Lamela, Berg- fans as their home stadium 55km away tant saves, but he could not prevent Timo they weren’t like that.” wijn (all fi t),” added Mourinho. does not meet UEFA regulations. Werner from the penalty spot as the Ger- Werner could be a more frequent foe “But we are on the 19th of February so Denis Cheryshev pulled one back for man international’s 26th goal of the sea- for Spurs next season with speculation we have to fi ght until the end. One thing Valencia in the fi rst leg of the last-16 tie at son gave Leipzig a lead to defend on home linking him to Liverpool. However, his I can guarantee is that even with I don’t the San Siro, the same stadium where the soil on March 10. profl igacy ensured the hosts went in level know who is playing in attack, we are go- Spanish side lost the 2001 fi nal to Bayern “Over the 90 minutes we deserved the at the break as he fi red too close to Lloris ing there to attack until our limits.” Munich on penalties. Valencia, seventh win and could have won by more,” said with just the French number one to beat. The introduction of Lamela and club in La Liga, had fi nished top of their group Leipzig boss Julian Nagelsmann. “It’s Leipzig could have regretted not mak- record signing Tanguy Ndombele from after away wins over Ajax and Chelsea but only the fi rst game today. You have to ing the most of their supremacy during the bench gave Tottenham a much-need- were missing several key players through Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne (left) scores against West Ham perform at the same level in both games.” the fi rst 45 minutes as Peter Gulacsi saved ed injection of creativity for the fi nal 25 injury and suspension. during the English Premier League match on Wednesday. (AFP)

SPOTLIGHT Undecided over future: Allegri Guardiola takes swipe at Barca over Man City’s Euro ban Paris: Massimiliano Allegri is yet to decide where he will AFP if they are happy we are suspended, I’d happen — I will stay here 100 per cent, make his coaching comeback Manchester say to the president of Barcelona, give more than ever. First because I want as he plots a return to the us the (right) to appeal, you know. to say it is something special but more game next season, the Italian “He asks right now the people trust than the contract I have, I said before revealed in an interview with ep Guardiola went to war what they (Barca) have done, so that is and I say now, I will see out my contract. AFP, amid rumours of serious with his former club Barcelona what we’re going to do. We believe that “I am optimistic in the end it will fi n- interest from Paris Saint-Ger- on Wednesday as Manchester we are right and we are going to appeal ish well. Me personally, we speak with main and Manchester United. City’s manager defended his and maybe it happens. But don’t talk the players and the next three months Allegri is possibly the hot- Pcurrent employers in the wake of their too loud Barcelona, my advice: don’t we still have focus on what we have to test free agent in football af- European ban. Barca president Josep talk too loud. Because everybody’s in- do and see, in the end, what is the sen- ter leaving Italian champions Maria Bartomeu has “thanked” UEFA volved sometimes in situations. But tence. Personally, no matter what hap- Juventus last summer with for banning City from the Champi- we are going to appeal and hopefully in pens, I will be here next season.” five Serie A titles in as many ons League and Europa League for two the future we can play the Champions In the short term, City now face a years and two Champions years, a shock sentence handed out on League against Barcelona.” battle with the Court of Arbitration for League finals under his belt. Friday which the Premier League cham- Guardiola was talking for the fi rst Sport to overturn the UEFA decision And the 52-year-old, who also pions plan to appeal. time since news broke last week that his and Guardiola insisted he has com- won AC Milan’s last league The Catalan club, where Guardiola club had been found guilty by UEFA of plete confi dence in his club’s claims title in 2011, confirmed his in- remains a legend, have problems of fi nancial fair play irregularities that saw after talks with chief executive Ferran tention to end his break away their own after being accused of hiring them hit with the two-year suspen- Soriano. “What has happened has hap- from the game at the end of a social media company to attempt to sion. That, in turn, led to speculation pened but it is not over,” said Guardiola. the current campaign. damage the reputations of fi gures such that Guardiola, who is believed to have “Today, Ferran Soriano said the club are “In September I need to as the City boss and their own striker a break clause in his contract this sum- going to appeal. I spoke (to him) a little come back. If I don’t I’ll get Lionel Messi. mer, would be moved to quit the Etihad bit about the situation and I am con- too used to being on holiday The reports, which Barcelona have Stadium. fi dent in the end, if we deserve it from and I’ll never work again!” vehemently denied, claim that the But, after City’s fi rst game since the what we have done on the pitch, we will Allegri joked. “I still have three campaign was part of an attempt to ban, Guardiola was defi ant in his insist- play next season in Europe. more months of holiday and strengthen the Barca board’s posi- ence that he will not leave the club. “It “I have confi dence 100 per cent in the that’s good for me.” tion. But Guardiola reacted angrily is not fi nished because the club believes club, I said it before, and right now I am However the 52-year-old when asked about both incidents after it is unfair and we are optimistic that in pretty confi dent we are going to defend denied having been contact- Wednesday’s 2-0 win over West Ham. the end truth will prevail and next sea- our position. When someone believes ed by PSG sporting director “I don’t know if they spied on me,” son, if we qualify for the Champions they are right, they have to fi ght until Leonardo about replacing he said. “If it happened, they know me League, we will be there,” he said. the end, no matter what. That is what I current coach Thomas Tuchel. so it is not necessary to spy on me. And “If they don’t sack me — and that can think the club is going to do.”

Friday, February 21, 2020 GULF TIMES SPORT

GOLF/ QATAR OPEN AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP Siem makes promising start in Tour card quest By Yash Mudgal 28th. “Usually greens are little Cup win on his CV after part- Doha fi rmer during the Qatar Masters, nering fellow German Bernhard but here they were a bit softer. Langer to glory in Barbados in Roughs are also not as high as 2006. Talking about his disquali- erman golfer Marcel usual… it played little easier to- fi cation and his fi ght to be back on Siem, who lost eligibility day. So overall it was bit easier.” the tour, he said: “It was a costly to play on the European Siem disqualifi ed himself mistake. It was hard unfortunate- Tour last season, made a from the French Open last Oc- ly. That was a little too much for Gfi ne start at the Qatar Open Ama- tober after he assumed that ‘pre- me as I disqualifi ed myself.” teur Championship yesterday. ferred lies rule’ was in place for This year his best fi nish in At the Doha Golf Club, the the opening round. The German three events on the European 39-year-old played well to hit lifted, cleaned and placed his ball Tour has been a tied 49th at the the top of the Pro leaderboard fi ve times on the front nine at Le South African Open. with an 8-under par 64, com- Golf National, incurring a two- “I am feeling felling more con- prising nine birdies and a bogey shot penalty for each infraction fi dent with couple of good starts on the fi rst day of the champion- and can not retain his Tour card. this year. Playing challenge after ship. England’s Brandon Robin- Prior to the penalty strokes, he 18 years is not nice. It’s like when son Thompson was two strokes had shot one-over 37 across the you miss one class in school, behind him with six-under. opening nine holes. you have to go back. I have to go American Kevin Esteve is third “I am happy with my score. through the season with playing at four-under and another Ger- But I don’t know what’s coming. I 10-12 challengers or invitation man, Max Schmitt, is fourth had a good fi nish at last few holes. events on the tour. I have to fi ght at three-under. South African I am happy with the score. But as through this year and I hope 2021 Bryce Easton and Swedish golfer we all know, this course is always will be good again,” he said. Niklas Lemke are tied for fi fth at diffi cult to play and still we have France’s Tom Santa, who two-under with four others at two days to go, so we have to be carded two-under and is joint the end of the fi rst round. little careful,” said the four-time fi fth on the overall leaderboard, “It was little windy in the af- European Tour winner Siem, who is leading the amateur section of ternoon, but it was calmer in the is aiming to earn back his card. the championship. morning. Overall the conditions Siem’s biggest victory came in Qatar’s Ali al-Shahrani card- were very nice here today,” Siem China at the 2014 BMW Masters, ed two-over to fi nish the day at told Gulf Times. which propelled him to a career- joint 5th spot, while 2017 run- Siem last playd in Qatar Mas- high seventh place fi nish in the ner-up Saleh al-Kaabi was four- German golfer Marcel Siem plays a bunker shot during the first round of the Qatar Open Amateur Championship 2020 at the Doha Golf Club yesterday. ters in 2018 and fi nished joint Race to Dubai. He also has a World over in joint 10th. PICTURE: Jayaram

MOTORSPORT Challenging desert route awaits Manateq Qatar Cross-Country Rally teams

Teams and equipment arrive at the bivouac adjacent to the Lusail Sports Arena SPOTLIGHT

By Sports Reporter Lusail Jones, Gugelmin ompetitors taking part in the forthcoming to debut new Manateq Qatar Cross- Country Rally (MQCCR) Cwill face some of the most chal- Can-Am in Qatar lenging desert terrain in the State of Qatar. By Sports Reporter races like the Baja 1000 on which Drivers and co-drivers from Doha he achieved a class win in 2018 17 nations will tackle six varied and 2019 and was SCORE Points’ selective sections between Feb- champion in 2018. He has al- ruary 23rd and 27th before the oung American driver ready competed in a couple of event draws to a close with the Austin Jones and Brazil- Morocco rallies, Baja Spain and ceremonial fi nish at Souq Waqif ian co-driver Gustavo the Silk Way Rally, but is visiting next Thursday afternoon. Gugelmin get their 2020 Qatar for the fi rst time. An experienced team of Qa- YFIA World Cup for Cross-Coun- Gugelmin joins Jones for the tari and Portuguese offi cials have try Rallies campaign underway event and brings his own formi- spent many painstaking hours at the Manateq Qatar Cross- dable experience to the team. A crossing and re-crossing sandy Country Rally today evening. former winner of the Side-by- and gravel trails, small dunes and The event runs over fi ve days Side (SxS) category at the Dakar gatch roads to fi nd stages to chal- through the Qatar deserts and Rally and present FIA Cross lenge the world’s fi nest cross- fi nishes in downtown Doha on Country title-holder with South country drivers. Thursday, February 27. Racing in a Can-Am with fel- The action all gets underway The duo will use the Dakar- low Brazilian Reinaldo Varela, at 10.55hrs on Sunday (February winning version of South Rac- Gustavo has tackled the event 23) with a relatively short se- ing’s Can-Am Maverick X3, in Qatar before. He knows the lective section of 171.25km that which makes its FIA debut under importance of patience and con- starts in the centre of the country the new FIA T3 technical regula- centration when it comes to the and winds its way through two tions in the FIA World Cup. intricate navigational skills that passage controls on the Umm Jones worked closely together make this event in Qatar so spe- Bab highway and across the Al with fellow American Kellon cialised. Khararra road to fi nish close to Walch at the Dakar Rally last South Racing Can-Am Team’s the east coast. A road liaison month and fi nished eighth in Scott Abraham, said: “It has of 63.60km then takes crews the T3 category with a proto- been a short turn around for the back to the bivouac at the Lusail type Can-Am Maverick X3 after Dakar-winning Can-Am Maver- Sports Arena. climbing as high as fourth overall icks. The Maverick and equip- The second leg on Monday is Desert action from the Manateq Qatar Cross-Country Rally in 2019. after day fi ve and setting three ment fl ew out last week to Doha. much more demanding and in- top three stage times. Jones, 24, Austin has shown great pace on cludes a competitive section of section of 219.79km starting at started to arrive at the bivouac was raised in the world of Amer- the Dakar and has grown race- 334.25km that starts off the Al 08.35hrs from the Dukhan road adjacent to the Lusail Sports ican off -road races and followed to-race and, together with Gus- Shamal highway and winds its and heading north, before turn- Arena, north of Doha, and me- his father into the sport after tavo, I think they will make a way along the north-eastern ing south along the west coast chanics and technicians will now starting out in big Trophy Truck great team.” coast and across the northern to fi nish close to the Umm Bab prepare the cars for the start of deserts to fi nish off the Al Khar- highway. technical scrutineering on to- saah road. A liaison link of 56.37km along morrow morning. The day’s stage includes three the Al Aamriya road then takes Prior to that, registered driv- passages controls on the Al Zu- competitors to the start of the ers and co-drivers will pass bara and Al Jumailah roads and second timed section of the day their mandatory administration the Dukhan highway and fi nishes – the 124.84km of the Sealine checks at Rally HQ, where li- 92.44km from Lusail. stage – that heads across the cences, insurances, homologa- Tuesday’s third Al Kharsaah southern deserts to the Inland tion documents and personal de- selective section is the longest of Sea before turning north along tails will be thoroughly checked the event at 340.28km and starts the east coast to fi nish near the before the offi cial pre-event at 08.40hrs, 61km south of Lu- Al Kharrara road, 92.25km from press conference and ceremonial sail, on the Salwa highway. Lusail. start take place at Souq Waqif The route heads down towards The sixth and fi nal selective in downtown Doha on Saturday the Inland Sea, before turning section of 254.58km starts on evening. north-west and heading back the Zekret road, 81.75km south- Manateq – Economic Zones through the central deserts to west of Lusail, and heads up the Company is the title sponsor for fi nish in the north-west of the western shoreline before turn- the third successive season. Es- country, 68.55km from Lusail. ing south at a passage control tablished in 2011, the company is The day’s special includes four near Al Zubara after 150.17km. positioned as a vital component passage controls – two on the The fi nal timed section then in achieving the economic de- Al Kharrara road – and a further heads through the central deserts velopment goals of the Qatar Na- two where the stage crosses the to fi nish at Ash Shafallahiyah, tional Vision 2030, through pro- Al Aamriya and Umm Bab roads. 40.89km south of Lusail. viding premium infrastructure Day four on Wednesday is Crews will tackle 1,444.99km within strategic economic zones split into two parts with the in a compact route of 2,215.04km. to promote the logistics and in- opening Al Shahaniyah selective Teams and equipment have dustrial sectors in Qatar. Austin Jones in action at the Dakar Rally last month.