Sport WEDNESDAY 23 SEPTEMBER 2020 Quick turnaround helped me get past US Open shock: Novak Djokovic I did experience mentally some ups and downs in the first ffour-five days after that happened. Obviously I was in shock... but I moved on, I've never had an issue in my life to move on regardless of how difficult it is.

Novak Djokovic Sport |09

ATP HAMBURG: Round of 32: Cristian Garin beat Kei Nishikori 6-0, 6-3, Bautista-Agut beat Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-4, 6-3 : Doha ready to host last leg of curtailed season RIZWAN REHMAT THE PENINSULA We have resumed

Qatar Athletics Federation (QAF) sports activity after President Dr Thani Al Kuwari yesterday said strict health months of hard protocols have been implemented for the last leg of the curtailed work: MOPH official Wanda Diamond League season which has been shortened by the coronavirus pandemic sweeping THE PENINSULA – DOHA the world. We have put in place Only four meetings have been Qatar has resumed sports complete protocols with planned for this season with events activity in the country after Qatar Athletics in Eugene, London, Paris, Rabat, ‘months of hard work’ on Federation (QAF) and Gateshead and Shanghai cancelled. implementing strict health the Local Organizing On Friday, Doha will join Monaco, and safety protocols Committee. The medical Stockholm and Rome as the only around venues. procedures are being four cities to hold regular meetings. This was said yesterday strictly adhered to. The The Qatar Sports Club Stadium by Dr Abdulwahab QOC are also carefully will host the revised 12-event pro- Almusleh, Senior Con- implementing the health gramme which includes sprint sultant to Ministry of Public hurdles and 800m for both men Health (MOPH) as Doha protocols. The most and women; 100m, 3000m and Officials addressing the media during a prepares to host the last leg important part of the for women; and 200m, press conference held at the Qatar Olympic of the Diamond League at protocol is that all 400m, 1500m and for Committee, yesterday. Qatar SC on Friday. athletes from overseas men. “After months of hard have to undergo virus “The Qatar Athletics Feder- work, we have resumed tests and come out as ation is committed to hosting this Qatari athletes at sports activities with health negative: Senior event in a safe manner. The meet and safety measures in Consultant to Ministry of was supposed to he held in May Friday’s DDL place. We are taking Public Health, but after rescheduling, we are special care so as to limit Dr Abdulwahab hosting it on September 25. We are 200M: Abdelaziz Mohamed the spread of the virus. The Almusleh ready to host the event. We have 400M: Mohamed Nasir Abbas sports events are also covered all bases,” Dr Thani said 800M: Rabi Mohamoud important for Qatar,” Dr yesterday. Mubarak, Jamal Hairane Abdulwahab said at the “We were facing difficult cir- Qatar Olympic Committee implementing the health 1500M: Musaab Adam Ali, cumstances - just as the rest of the (QOC) building, protocols. The most world was - with the coronavirus Hamza Driouch yesterday. important part of the pro- pandemic but with the efforts of 1500M ‘B’: Mohamad “From the beginning of tocol is that all athletes the Ministry of Public Health Al Garni, Yaser Salem Bagharab, September, Qatar started from overseas have to (MOPH), the Qatar Olympic Com- Abdirahman Saeed Hassan the fourth phase of undergo virus tests and mittee and the Diamond League resuming economic and come out as negative,” he Doha Diamond League Meeting Director, Khalid Al Marri, and Qatar Organising Committee, we have 10,000m final. Mutaz Barshim will social activities. Now Qatar said. “This also goes for Athletics Federation President, Dr Thani Al Kuwari. FILE PHOTOS put in place safety measures to be not here so there’s no has the experience and the technical staff that stop the spread of the virus. We competition.” He added: “It’s been know-how to resume underwent tests sometime are pleased to thank MOPH for Doha. We have hosted a number stakeholders for their efforts to a tough summer for everyone, yet sports events. We have back. They have been their efforts,” he said. of events like the IAAF World Ath- host the event. Our thanks also go we’ve witnessed some exceptional resumed football and bas- tested regularly since the “Hosting the event now gives letics Championships in 2019. It to our sponsors for backing our performances. I’m ketball leagues. The sport start of September. The everyone the message that we was one of the best events in recent event,” Dr Thani added. confident that in Doha, the fourth activities in Qatar, thank- athletes that have arrived have to adapt and battle on against history. Khalid Al Marri, the Doha and final competitive meeting of fully, are not the reason of step out for training pur- coronavirus. We have the com- “The confirmation of athletes Diamond League Meeting Director, this shortened 2020 Wanda the spread of the disease. poses only. mitment to host the event. We have for the Doha leg which will be held yesterday said: “The Diamond Diamond League series, we’ll We are committed to social “Social distancing is been preparing the protocols and at Qatar SC shows the trust IAAF League is the last meeting of the provide a fitting finale.” distancing and using face also a key component of implementing the safety measures. has in Qatar’s ability to deliver a season. In the last three meetings, Talal Al Mansour, a former masks,” he said. our protocols as is hand We have a challenge in front of us good event. This also shows that there were some records set and Qatari athlete, said: “We have “We have put in place washing. The MOPH had but we are ready for it. The Qatar is battling the crisis well and some broken. We have 10 Olympic young Qatari athletes competing complete protocols with approved the entry of fans meeting was to be held in August it shows we can organize an event champions in Doha. We have the here. They can learn so much from Qatar Athletics Federation at the venue but the LOC but we asked the IAAF to have the like this with SOPs. This will be the pole vault world champion here. competing in Doha. The QAF (QAF) and the Local Organ- decided not to hold the event slotted in September. We first major international event to It should be an exciting compe- giving opportunity to our athletes izing Committee. The event in front of the fans knew to host the event in August be held in Qatar while the world tition. We also have the 1,500m competing at top events like the medical procedures are for the health and safety of would be a little early for us. Sep- fights the virus. final. The field includes champions. one to be held in Qatar is a good being strictly adhered to. all. The technical staff is tember seemed fine and Qatar “I would like to thank the The same is the case in the move.” The QOC are also carefully also doing its best not to quickly expressed its readiness. mix with athletes at this “Now we are hosting the AFC point in time. Champions League matches. Yes, “I think Qatar has there were some cases but those become the global hub for were handled quickly. We are sports events for more than managing the crisis situations well. a decade. There’s great We have the MOPH following the attention host international international standards on imple- events. We have excep- menting the safety protocols,” he tional infrastructure to said. meet the demands of “The meeting will be held hosting top events at a high behind closed doors, without fans. level. This Covid-19 pan- That’s the decision of the IAAF. demic has hurt sports This is the 10th edition of the A file photo of Qatar SC Stadium during an earlier edition of the Doha Diamond League. activities around the Diamond League to be held in world,” he added. ACL: Al Duhail must remain focused We showed two faces during the two despite win over Persepolis,Pers says Almoez halves against Al Nassr, says Xavi

We played wwell, which was great after our performance against It was a tough game. We were not good enough in the first half, SSharjah.harjah. WeWe managed to recover some of our level but we still have and in the second half we were better. We had to play in the first some work to do in order to get to 100 percent. We could have half, like we did in the second. We showed two faces of the team in achieved a betterb result but at the end of the day, the three points the two halves. I’m angry with the first half, and happy with the are really importantim for us. second. We have to change and improve our performance, but we TheThe nextnex match will be harder and we must avoid being are satisfied with the point. We played against a strong team, overconfident,overconfide as was the case against Sharjah. We must forget the which is one of the best in the competition. win and preparepre for Al Taawoun who are a good side. We have to go step by step; otherwise, we will make a mistake. TheyThey defeadefeatedt us previously (2-0 on Matchday Two) in Saudi It’s very difficult to win the competition, and there are many good ArabiaArA abia and we must be fully focused in order to have a clubs. Our first objective is to reach the round of 16, and then we positivepop sitive resultr and bring joy to our fans. will see. AlA Duhail'sDuhai captain Almoez Ali after their win over Persepolis. Al Sadd's coach Xavi after their 1-1 draw against Al Nassr. WEDNESDAY 23 SEPTEMBER 2020 SPORT 11 Suarez language exam for Italian citizenship rigged: Prosecutors

REUTERS – ROME suspicions were quickly raised in Police searched the university Suarez, 33, obtained the inter- take Morata’s placeace at the media that he was given pref- on Tuesday looking for further evi- mediate B1 qualification required Atletico. Italian prosecutors said yesterday erential treatment. dence, Cantone said in a statement, for citizenship in just 15 minutes, Suarez has had a cocon-n- they had evidence that the language Perugia chief prosecutor Raf- while Italian newspaper la Repub- his examiner said after the test, and troversial career includingcluding exam taken by Barcelona’s Uruguay faele Cantone said his investiga- blica reported that five university was only required to do the oral being banned forr four striker Luis Suarez to obtain Italian tions showed the questions had employees had been put under part of the exam. months for bitingg ItalItalyy citizenship ahead of a possible been agreed with Suarez ahead of investigation, including the rector. Other citizenship applicants defender Georgio Chiellinihiellini move to Juventus was rigged. the exam and it had already been Suarez himself is not cited taking the B1 exam on the same at the 2014 World Cupup finals Suarez, whose wife is of Italian decided what mark to give him, among those under day in Rome, had to also complete in Brazil. descent, passed the exam last despite his scarce knowledge of investigation. a written paper lasting two-and- He also bit an opponenopponentt Thursday at the University for For- Italian. La Repubblica published a-half hours. while playing for hishis former eigners in Perugia. The university denied any alleged conversations tapped by Suarez’s mooted transfer to clubs Ajax Amsterdamrdam in It cleared the way for a fast- wrongdoing, saying in a statement police during their probe, in which Juve now looks unlikely, as the 2010 and Liverpoolool iinn track citizenship approval which it had acted with “correctness and a tutor preparing Suarez for the Serie A champions have moved to 2013, which were ppun-un- would mean Juventus could sign transparency” and was confident exam told a colleague “he can’t sign striker Alvaro Morata from ished with seven andnd him without exceeding its per- this would emerge at the end of the speak a word,” and described him Atletico Madrid, while the Uru- 10-match bans Luis Suarez mitted quota of non-EU players, but probe. as an absolute beginner in Italian. guayan international seems set to respectively. Premier League breaks Man City off to a winning start record with 44 goals REUTERS – WOLVERHAMPTON ManchesterMan City got their Premier League AP – LONDON campaigncamp off to a flying start with a 3-1 win at WolverhamptonWo Wanderers thanks to first- A stoppage-time goal by Gabriel Jesus halfhalf goalsg by Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden did more than just clinch a significant plusplus a late Gabriel Jesus strike on Monday. Barcelona’s win for Manchester City at Wolver- TheT result means there has not been a hampton. singlesingle drawn match in the opening two rounds Vidal joins It capped a record-breaking ofof PremierPr League fixtures and the 44 goals round of scoring in the English over a single ‘game week’ is a record for the Premier League, too. 20-team20-te era. Inter for €1m A total of 44 were scored in a wild WolvesW beat City home and away last second round of games from Sat- sseasoneaso but Pep Guardiola’s side were full AFP – MADRID urday to Monday, surpassing the vavaluelu for their victory despite a strong record for a single round since the responserespo from the home side after they went Inter Milan have league was reduced to 20 teams in 2-0 down. completed a deal to sign 1995. Guardiola gave a debut to close-season Arturo Vidal from At least seven goals were scored signingsign Nathan Ake, the Dutch defender Barcelona for €1m in three separate games, only the ssignedig from Bournemouth, lining up ($1.17m), the clubs third time that has happened in the alongsidea John Stones in the centre of announced yesterday. Premier League era (since 1992). defence. “Barcelona and Inter From Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s While City were given a rest in the Milan have reached an hat trick for Everton in the early first week of the season, due to their agreement for the transfer kickoff on Saturday to Son Heung- August involvement in the Champions of the player Arturo Vidal,” min’s four-goal burst for Tottenham League, they were sharp out of the Barca said in a statement. a day later to Man City’s commanding blocks, quickly finding their rhythm. “The Italian team will 3-1 win at Wolves on Monday, the Manchester City’s “It’s obviously hard. It’s a weird pay FC Barcelona 1 million goals flew in across the empty Brazilian striker Gabriel season.se We know we need to start well,” euros in variables.” After grounds of the world’s most-watched Jesus (R) celebrates after saidsaid De Bruyne. joining in 2018, Vidal league at an average of 4.4 per game. scoring his team’s third PFAP Player of the Year, De Bruyne put City played 96 games for the Maybe it was just one of those goal during the English in frontfro with a penalty in the 20th minute. Catalans and scored 11 weekends. Premier League match TheThe Belgian broke into the box and was goals, helping them win La Or maybe there are some logical against Wolverhampton broughtbrou down by Romain Saiss before getting Liga in his first year in reasons behind the high goal count. Wanderers on Monday. upup toto convert the spot-kick himself. Spain. NO FANS, LESS PRESSURE? City’sC trademark passing game was at its But the 33-year-old Without fans in the stadiums, very best for their second goal just past the half- was seen as expendable by there’s a different atmosphere for of last season and the 2.72 goals per Premier League at the moment, and hour, Foden ending a fine move with a clinical the club after their games that can sometimes resemble game in that period was exactly the more are arriving. Manchester City finish from a low Raheem Sterling cross. dreadful end to last season, high-intensity training ground same ratio as pre-lockdown. and Liverpool have long had the most Wolves goalkeeper Rui Patricio did well with Barca president Josep exercises. SHORT OFFSEASON devastating strikeforces but Totten- to keep out a De Bruyne effort as City Maria Bartomeu admitting Players invariably are more relaxed Coaches typically use the pre- ham’s will look just as exciting when threatened to put the game beyond them players would have to without the crowd on their backs. Play- season to get their players fit and nail Gareth Bale links up with Harry Kane before the break but it was a different story leave before new ones makers and forwards, especially, might down an approach or tactics ahead and Son Heung-min, the pair who after the interval. could come in. feel more able to express themselves of the new campaign. combined for four goals against Wolves’ Daniel Podence broke goalwards Vidal will be reunited without being subjected to groans if an Yet for 2020-21, there has barely Southampton on Sunday. but his attempted chip went over the bar and with Antonio Conte at ambitious pass or speculative shot been a preseason because of the late The arrival of James Rodriguez Raul Jimenez was then picked out by a low Inter, the coach he played doesn’t come off. finish to last season. has improved the scoring output of cross from Adama Traore but the Mexican for at Juventus between Players might feel under less Teams have had very few Everton, right winger Willian had side-footed wide from inside the box. 2011 and 2015, before pressure when they are through on friendlies to get sharp or organized, three assists on his debut for Arsenal, The home side finally gained some joining Bayern Munich and goal. Penalty-takers, for example, and trainings have been disjointed while Chelsea has spent around reward in the 78th minute when Jimenez then Barca. might not feel under so much strain because of an international break $200m to bring in attackers Timo headed home a Podence cross, but in Inter described the without crowd noise during their and, in some cases, players testing Werner, Kai Havertz and Hakim stoppage time Jesus made sure of the win Chilean midfielder as a run-up. positive for COVID-19. Ziyech. Add Christian Pulisic to the for the visitors with a shot which deflected “warrior”. There have been 11 spot kicks Because of the abnormally short mix, and imagine what that quartet off Conor Coady. “From today, Vidal will converted already this season - offseason, players are unlikely to be could do this season? Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo be on the front line for the though two have been saved, too. as fit as they usually are for the start Also adding to the likelihood of highlighted his team’s failure to take their Nerazzurri, with the same In an English League Cup match of a season. Tired bodies and tired more goals this season is the fact that chances. objectives as ever: fighting, last week, there was a score of 11-10 minds can lead to more mistakes - the Premier League has been told by “We always have to give credit to our giving it his all, and in a penalty shootout. and more goals. FIFA to be stricter with its application opponents because of the talent and the winning,” the Italian club However, there were no fans in ATTACKING DEPTH of handballs by defenders, therefore quality they have, but we should do better,” added. Premier League grounds after play There is an abundance of top- falling in line with other European he said. restarted post-lockdown near the end quality forward players in the leagues. UEFA Super Cup Ibra scores twice as Milan win opener interest will be focused REUTERS – MILAN the Bologna defence to head in from Theo Hernandez’s cross. AC Milan’s veteran forward Zlatan Milan went further ahead after the away from the pitch Ibrahimovic scored twice and missed break when Bennacer was brought REUTERS – BUDAPEST an open goal as he secured a 2-0 win down by Riccardo Orsolini. over Bologna to get their Serie A The referee initially awarded a The UEFA Super Cup match between Champions League winners campaign off to a winning start on free kick but changed his decision Bayern Munich and Europa League holders Sevilla tomorrow Monday. to a penalty after consulting the AC Milan’s would in normal circumstances be an attractive showpiece clash The 38-year-old broke the VAR officials and Ibrahimovic fired Swedish between two teams enjoying a remarkable run of form. deadlock with a towering header in the ball into the top right-hand forward Zlatan Bayern are unbeaten since Dec. 7, a run of 31 competitive the 35th minute and added corner. Ibrahimovic matches which has seen them steamroller several opponents -- the second with a He was presented with a gilt- celebrates after including Barcelona who were beaten 8-2 -- on their way to com- penalty -- the first in edged chance to complete his hat- scoring during pleting a Bundesliga, German Cup and Champions League treble. Serie A this season -- trick by Hakan Calhanoglu’s break the Italian Serie Sevilla’s form has been almost as impressive with no defeats five minutes after the upfield but, having rounded A match against since Feb. 9 -- a run of 21 matches -- as they finished the season break. goalkeeper Lukasz Sko- Bologne, on by lifting the Europa League. Milan extended their Monday. But the main interest is likely to revolve around the game’s unbeaten run to 15 games in status as a test event for the return of fans to stadiums. all competitions as they started Although some countries have begun allowing spectators back where they left off last season, in small numbers, tomorrow’s match in Hungary is more ambi- suggesting they are capable of bat- tious, and arguably riskier, with UEFA and local authorities tling for a Champions League spot. allowing the Puskas Arena to fill up to one third of its 67,000 “If I was 20-years-old, I’d have capacity. It will also feature travelling fans with 3,000 tickets scored another two,” said Ibrahimovic, available to followers of each club. who has 14 goals in 22 matches since UEFA says strict hygiene measures will be in place with fans returning for a second stint at Milan instructed to keep a distance of 1.5 metres from each other, wear in January. masks and wash and disinfect their hands wherever possible. Roberto Soriano nearly gave rupski, he fired wide of the But those measures have not convinced everyone. Bologna a shock lead after 90 seconds target, albeit somewhat On Monday, Bavarian Premier Markus Soeder urged Bayern when his shot was deflected wide but off-balance. Munich fans not to travel, warning that the match could turn into Milan, who had lost their opening Substitute Federico a hotbed for COVID-19 to spread. He also warned they could face league match in the last two seasons, Santander hit the bar for quarantine on their return to Germany. took control after that. Bologna, who had Mitchell Dijks That could make it more trouble than it is worth for many Ismael Bennacer missed an open sent off for a second booking in fans, especially for a fixture that is often regarded as little more goal before Ibrahimovic rose above the 88th. than an exhibition event. 10 SPORT WEDNESDAY 23 SEPTEMBER 2020

Cycling in fresh turmoil with Tour doping investigation

REUTERS – PARIS and Vuelta and Giro d’Italia champion. He in cycling since 2011. Arkea-Samsic team 2008 when the team left the Tour in the wake finished 17th overall on this year’s Tour. The manager Emmanuel Hubert said on Monday of Ricardo Ricco’s failed doping test. Cycling has been thrown into fresh turmoil French team confirmed their hotel in Meribel that the investigation did “not target the team The duo were also managing the Geox-TMC after French judicial authorities opened a was searched by the OCLAESP, the Central or its staff directly. team when Spaniard Juan Jose Cobo won the preliminary investigation into potential doping Office for the Fight against Environmental and Quintana was allowed to continue working Vuelta in 2011, only to be stripped of the title at Nairo Quintana’s team Arkea-Samsic on Public Health Damage, after last Wednesday’s with his own doctor when he signed a three- because of a “violation of the anti-doping rules Monday, a day after the Tour de France ended 17th stage. year deal with Arkea-Samsic this year. (use of a banned substance) based on irregu- in Paris. Laurens said the search had resulted in the Quintana’s management have not responded larities found in his Athlete Biological Passport Two people had been taken into custody, “discovery of many health products, including to a Reuters request for comment. in 2009 and 2011”. Marseille prosecutor Dominique Laurens said, drugs and especially a method that can be qual- This year’s Tour was won by Slovenian Tadej “I am too young to remember that era,” said adding that the probe was targeting a “small ified as doping”. Pogacar, who produced one of the most stunning Pogacar when asked about his entourage at UAE part of the team” and that those in custody were A source with direct knowledge of the matter performances in recent history in the final time Emirates. “I was 10 in 2008 and it’s weird to be part of the “close entourage of the main rider”, told Reuters that a “saline solution” and trial last Saturday. talking about this because it goes against eve- without naming him. “injection material” had been found. The 22-year-old is with Team UAE Emirates, rything I believe in.” The last notable rider to Arkea-Samsic’s leader on the Tour was Injection material can only be in possession which is managed by Mauro Gianetti and Matxin fail a doping test on the Tour was Luxembourg’s Colombian Quintana, a two-time runner-up, of doctors as per the ‘no needle policy’ in place Fernandez, sports directors at Saunier Duval in Frank Schleck in 2012.

Riders in action near the Arc de Triomphe during the 21st and last stage of the 107th edition of the Tour de France on Sunday.

All-rounder Marsh suffers Samson blitz helps RR ankle injury during IPL to 16-run win over CSK

REUTERS – DUBAI IANS – SHARJAH Sanju Samson of Rajasthan Royals hitting a boundary Australian all-rounder Mitch Sanju Samson’s blistering 74, late against Chennai Super Marsh was forced from the theatrics from speedster Jofra Archer Kings during yesterday's ‘Age is just a pitch with a potentially serious with the bat -- he carted four consec- Indian Premier League ankle injury as Sunrisers utive sixes -- and Rahul Tewatia’s match in Sharjah. number’: Thiago Hyderabad lost their Indian three-wicket burst propelled Pic: Twitter/IPL Premier League opener to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) to a comfortable Royal Challengers Bangalore 16-run win over Chennai Super Kings Silva takes in Dubai yesterday. (CSK) in an Indian Premier League Marsh, who helped Aus- (IPL) match here yesterday. plunge in PL tralia to a one-day interna- RR posted a mammoth 216 for tional series win over world seven wickets in 20 overs and three- AP – LONDON champions England earlier this time champions CSK finished with 200 month, turned his right ankle for six wickets in 20 overs, despite a Thiago Silva never imagined himself while trying to stop a drive late surge from Faf du Plessis (72), at playing in England. from compatriot Aaron Finch the Sharjah International Stadium. As a ball-playing center back, the Bra- after bowling his second Openers Shane Watson (33) and zilian has watched Premier League games delivery. The 28-year-old Murali Vijay (21) ensured that CSK down the years and it just didn’t appeal managed two more balls before cross 50 within the first six overs. to him. limping from the field, although Rahul Tewatia (3/37), however, “My impression of the football played he did manage to get out to face ensured that CSK did not exploit the was one of long balls, high balls, long-dis- one delivery with the bat at slim chance that was provided by tance shots,” he recalls. number 10 as Hyderabad Watson. He dismissed the veteran Aus- “My preference,” he added, “was to battled to stave off the 10-run tralian and later Sam Curran, who was play football with the ball on the ground.” loss to Virat Kohli’s side. striking the ball cleanly. Shreyas Gopal So, how - at the age of 36 - has Silva “Doesn’t look great,” his got the wicket of Vijay in the very next ended up at Chelsea in perhaps the last captain and international team over after Watson was dismissed. big move of his distinguished career? mate David Warner said in a Tewatia also got the wicket of the “Over time, I have seen that the league TV interview. busy Kedar Jadhav (22), thanks to a has developed tremendously,” he said “He’s got to get an X-ray, sharp one-handed catch by wicket- Tuesday at his presentation as a Chelsea hopefully it’s not too bad. Obvi- keeper Samson. du Plessis then tried player. “There’s a lot more technical ously what you saw out there, to milk as many runs as he could from quality, a lot more teams playing with the it was quite painful, he can’t put the ‘death’ overs. But when he fell for ball on the ground, full backs attacking in any weight on it. Fingers 72 off 37, CSK still needed 38 off seven the area. crossed.” This year’s IPL, which balls to win. That became 38 to win “Little by little, the Premier League was originally scheduled to off the last over when Ravindra Jadeja has won me over. Anyone who knows me begin in March in India, is being left the very next ball unharmed. can confirm that. At 36, I am arriving to held in the United Arab MS Dhoni (29) hit three consec- play in the best league in the world.” Emirates due to the COVID-19 utive sixes in the last over which after Samson’s dismissal, but the over, two of which were off back to Silva’s last competitive game was for pandemic. Marsh would have helped his team reduce the margin of wheels came off in the final over. back no-balls. Paris Saint-Germain in a 1-0 loss to been hoping for a good run of defeat to 16 runs. Ngidi, who had accounted for Samson Bayern Munich in last month’s Champions matches in Dubai before he Earlier, Samson smashed as many earlier, leaked 30 runs due to a com- BRIEF SCORES: League final in Lisbon. heads back to Australia to try as nine sixes as he put up 121 runs with bination of Archer’s belligerence and RR 216/7 in 20 overs (Samson 74, Contrast that occasion with his likely to force his way into contention Steve Smith off just 57 balls for the unwanted extras. Smith 69; S Curran 3/33) beat CSK debut for Chelsea, a low-profile English for the much-anticipated home second wicket. CSK seemed to be Archer smashed four consecutive 200/6 (du Plessis 72, Watson 33; League Cup match against Barnsley, a test series against India. clawing their way back into the match sixes off the first four balls of the last Tewatia 3/37) by 16 runs team from the country’s second tier. Chelsea manager Frank Lampard said he was ready to give the experienced centre back some minutes in today’s game IPL’s foreign stars laud Indian young guns as the Brazilian builds up to full match fitness after a short offseason. Bigger tests will come for Silva in the AFP – DUBAI Devdutt Padikkal of Royal Challengers Bangalore fielded up-and-coming Premier League, and he doesn’t see Indian talent in former U-19 himself struggling in what is widely Overseas stars including skipper Priyam Garg and all- regarded as the most physically intense Australia’s white-ball rounder Abhishek Sharma. division in the world. captain Aaron Finch praised Garg attempted a horrific “Age is just a number on your doc- young Indian talent in the scoop shot on his IPL debut ument,” he said. “Physically, I feel very IPL after batsman Devdutt only for the ball to hit his young, I am very well prepared for this Padikkal smashed a half- helmet grill and land on the and I have been preparing my whole life. century for Royal Chal- stumps as he was bowled for “People who know me know how lengers Bangalore. 12. But Warner advised the much I love my work and that I put in The 20-year-old left- youngsters to carry on 200%. This is a great opportunity that handed opener proved his playing their natural game. Chelsea and Frank Lampard have given worth for Virat Kohli’s team “Exciting times for Indian me. I don’t want to let them down.” with a 42-ball 56 that set up cricket and I can’t wait to see Silva will provide some much-needed an opening Indian Premier what the young players leadership and experience to a Chelsea League win for last year’s produce,” Warner said after defense that has appeared naïve at times wooden spooners in Dubai his team’s loss. since Lampard joined in the summer of on Monday. “There were three 2019. Bangalore trumped Sun- bizarre dismissals, but I He sees his role at Chelsea as not just risers Hyderabad, led by encourage them to keep a player, but a mentor for a young team David Warner, and playing the way, not think that is trying to gel after the club’s off- Padikkal’s confidence and too much about it. We will season spending spree of more than flair did not go unnoticed by rely on our senior players to $250m. his opening partner Finch. guide those guys in the “I think with all the experience in my “Dev is a brilliant young top of the order, so I loved 51 for Bangalore, who are young players coming and middle. career and everything, I think it’s player,” Finch told reporters opening with him. searching for their maiden looking like international “Play your natural game important to show to the younger players in a virtual press “He is such an exciting IPL title. players is really exciting to and the that’s the only way that just playing the matches isn’t conference. young player. My advice is De Villiers too was watch,” said de Villiers. you can learn.” Teenage leg- enough,” he said. “They need to be pre- “I think he has shown just play your natural game, impressed with Padikkal and “Padikkal is a shy and spinner Ravi Bishnoi also pared and ready to be in the best state over the last couple of years if you are feeling it against a the new crop of players who quiet guy but I don’t have to had a good outing with Kings possible. in Under-19 cricket, particular bowler keep have made an early say much really, he looks XI Punjab on Sunday when “They need to see how important it is domestic cricket, how tal- going.” South African impression in the 53-day like a really good talent.” he returned impressive to win things. Because I think people who ented he is and how veteran AB de Villiers also tournament. Warner’s team, winners of figures of 1-22 from his four are winners are remembered.” destructive he can be at the contributed with a 30-ball “Very competitive, the the 2016 IPL, have also overs. WEDNESDAY 23 SEPTEMBER 2020 SPORT 09 Halep raising her game to a higher Dzumhur, coach taking legal action against level after coronavirus shutdown French Open organisers REUTERS — ROME crowd, the team... so I have people think I’m a favourite, I’m many on the list,” the Romanian not thinking about that because REUTERS — PARIS The pandemic got me in a Simona Halep said she had added. every match it’s a battle and Popovic tested positive found inner calm during place that I really “NowNow I tell myself I’mIm much everyone wants to get it so Bosnian playerp Damir Dzumhur but argued it was a ‘false tennis’s coronavirus shutdown dreamed to be. I’m more betterbetter in that direction... badly,”badly,” she added. isis takintakingg legal action against positive’ because he and that she had returned to the mature, more relaxed I hhaveave to ffightight withwith ““SoSo I’m focusifocusingng oonn FrenchFrench OOpen organisers after courts with more maturity and the opponentopponent my ggameame like I did he was barredb from entering already had contracted because I could see that perspective on the game. because I face hehhere,re, like I did iinn thethe qualiqualificationf round after his the virus earlier this the most difficult things Halep won the Dubai title an oopponent.”pponent.” PrPrague.ague. II’m’m nonott coachcoach PetarP Popovic tested year, saying he was “full before the WTA Tour’s sus- are in life in general, not AndAnd whilewhile sstressingtressing abouaboutt positivepositive for COVID-19. of antibodies”. pension in March and lifted the in sport. So being able to manymany have results.”results.” PopovicPopo tested positive but Prague crown on its do this as good as I do in her as the arguedargued iitt was a ‘false positive’ resumption, before claiming favouritefavourite fforor a because he already had con- another crown in Rome on the last seven years, it’s a secondsecond title at tracted tthe virus earlier this this. It makes me crazy,” he Monday to emerge as the front big thing. RolandRoland Garros year, ssayinga he was “full of said. runner for the French Open afterafter herher 20182018 antibodies”.antibodi Six players have already Grand Slam, which begins on Simona Halep triumph,triumph, HaHaleplep DzumhurDzum and Popovic said been denied playing in the Sunday. saidsaid she wouldwould Simona Halep theythey wewerer denied a second test qualification phase amid pos- “The pandemic got me in a take it one match byby FrencFrench Open organisers, the itive coronavirus tests. place that I really dreamed to at a time. French tenniste federation (FFT), The FFT was not immedi- be,” the world number two told Rome title, which shehe won “If withwith PoPopovicp saying a new test ately available to comment on the WTA Insider Podcast. when Karolina Pliskovaa retired he underwentunde returned neg- the matter. The French Open “I’m more mature, more due to injury, was the cuculmi-lmi- ative,ative, aaccording to French will be held from September relaxed because I could see that nation of a dream she hadad ssinceince sportssports dailyd L’Equipe. 27-October 11 after being the most difficult things are in 2013, though she was a much “It’s“I a scandal and a moved from its usual late May- life in general, not in sport. So different person now. hugehuh ge frustration,” Popovic June slot. being able to do this as good as “Back then I was fightingghting toldtot ld L’Equipe yesterday. The FFT plans to allow I do in the last seven years, it’s with everyone, with myself,yself, “I’m sure we’re going 5,000 spectators each day fol- a big thing.” the opponent, the ball,l, thethe toto win in court. They’re lowing a recent spike in coro- Halep, 28, said her first racquet, the weather, the goingg to pay a lot for navirus cases in France. Andreescu pulls out of Quick turnaround helped me French Open get past shock: Djokovic REUTERS — PARIS REUTERS — ROME really wanted to get on the court Canada’s Bianca Andreescu and get whatever trace of that out has pulled out of the French Italian Open champion Novak of the way.” Open and will take the rest of Djokovic said getting back on court Djokovic, who has won 31 of his the season off to focus on her for a tournament so quickly after 32 matches this year, said he would recuperation, the world being disqualified at the US Open have to raise his game further to number seven said yesterday. for striking a line judge with a ball challenge for the title at the French Andreescu, who did not helped him move on from the Open, which begins on Sunday. defend her 2019 US Open incident. “I don’t think I played my best crown in New York this year, The world number one came in tennis to be honest, I don’t want to has not played on tour since for heavy criticism at Flushing sound arrogant here. I am very sat- the WTA Finals in Shenzhen Meadows earlier this month and the isfied and pleased to win a title. I last year where she retired Serb said he spent several days know I still have a couple of gears,” with a knee injury that also processing what had happened. he added. kept her out of the Australian He returned to tournament play “Hopefully I’ll be able to raise Open in January. in Rome last week and captured his that level for the French Open “I have come to the dif- 36th ATP Masters crown in Mon- because that’s going to be necessary ficult decision to skip the clay day’s final by beating Argentine if I want to go deep in the court swing this year and will Diego Schwartzman 7-5, 6-3. tournament.” be taking the remainder of the “I did experience mentally some Defending Roland Garros season off to focus on my ups and downs in the first four-five champion Rafa Nadal was stunned health and training,” days after that happened,” Djokovic by Schwartzman in the Rome Andreescu said in a statement. Serbia’s Novak Djokovic told reporters. quarter-finals, but Djokovic “As hard as it was to come celebrates after winning “Obviously I was in shock... but expected the Spaniard to be firing to this conclusion, I have so the Italian Open final I moved on, I’ve never had an issue on all cylinders in Paris. much to look forward to in 2021, against Argentina’s Diego in my life to move on regardless of “He’s the player who has the including the Olympics. I want Schwartzman on Monday. how difficult it is. highest chance of being in the final... to use this time to focus on my “Obviously having a tournament if it’s Roland Garros it’s Rafa you game so I can come back a week after helped a lot because I bet on,” he said. stronger and better than ever.” Fans fume online as Italian Open title Monfils out, Bautista through in winners split by €10 in prize money first round at Hamburg event AP — HAMBURG Roberto Bautista- REUTERS — ROME difference. “People who made a pay Agut in action, Djokovic, who beat Argentine gap in cents are misogynists. Period,” Third-seeded Gael Monfils was elim- yesterday. Organisers of the Italian Open and Diego Schwartzman 7-5, 6-3 one individual said on Twitter. inated in the first round of the the tennis Tours came under fire on “I almost feel like - if they so Hamburg European Open yesterday, social media after it emerged that for a record 36th ATP Masters badly need those 10 euros to feel losing 6-4, 6-3 to 103rd-ranked Rome men’s champion Novak 1000 crown, received better about their manhood - hell’s Yannick Hanfmannw. Djokovic was paid €10 ($11.74) more €205,200 for his triumph bells give it to ‘em,” another said. Hanfmann needed just 1 hour, 13 than women’s winner Simona Halep. while Halep won €10 less for Organisers of the tournament as minutes to wrap up the win and the Djokovic, who beat Argentine sealing the WTA Premier 5 well as the men’s ATP Tour and German will next face Cristian Garin, Diego Schwartzman 7-5, 6-3 for a women’s WTA tour did not immedi- who swept past Japan's Kei Nishikori record 36th ATP Masters 1000 crown, title after Karolina Pliskova ately respond to request for comment. 6-0, 6-3. received €205,200 for his triumph retired from the final with Last year, Rafa Nadal took home Fourth-seeded Roberto Bautista- while Halep won €10 less for sealing injury while trailing 6-0, 2-1. €958,055 as the men’s winner in Agut won 6-4, 6-3 against Nikoloz the WTA Premier 5 title after Karolina Rome, almost double the prize Basilashvili to set up a second-round Pliskova retired from the final with money given to women’s winner meeting with Dominik Koepfer. injury while trailing 6-0, 2-1. Pliskova. Fabio Fognini built up momentum But even as tennis’ biggest prize came close to that of Djokovic, The financial impact of the after a slow start to oust Philipp Kohls- events - the Grand Slams - have it frustratingly fell short. COVID-19 pandemic had reduced the chreiber 4-6, 6-1, 7-5. pushed for parity in prize money The issue generated plenty of dis- overall prize pot of the men’s event The sixth-seeded Italian will play for winners, some fans online cussion on social media, with some to around €3.47m while the women’s either Casper Ruud or Benoit Paire in vented their ire that while Halep’s individuals pointing out the “pathetic” fund was around €1.69m. the second round. Tokyo needs to convince sponsors Olympics will really happen AP — TOKYO open on July 23, 2021. Bach and the public,” Muto, speaking in - or should happen. A poll pub- IOC vice president John Coates Japanese, said last week. lished in June by Japanese The only thing more difficult - who oversees Tokyo prepa- “People need to be more con- broadcaster NHK said two- than staging next year’s Tokyo rations - are expected to speak vinced that, yes, the Olympics thirds of sponsors were unde- Olympics in a pandemic might remotely to Japanese officials will be taking place for sure.” cided about extending for be convincing sponsors to keep as they meet tomorrow and A former deputy governor another year. their billions of dollars on board Friday. of the Bank of Japan, Muto has Keeping domestic sponsors in the midst of economic turbu- The agenda includes been vague about how many on board is financially critical. lence and skepticism. plotting countermeasures domestic sponsors are renewing Recruited by the giant Japanese To make the point this against COVID-19: quarantines, their contracts. He says of the advertising agency Dentsu Inc., week, IOC President Thomas rules for athletes entering the 68 sponsors: “They are all domestic sponsors have paid a Bach will join a number of Jap- country, testing, vaccines and positive.” record $3.3bn - at least twice anese government and city offi- the presence or absence of fans. ”We’re still in the middle of any previous Olympics - to the cials, local organisers and other Few firm details are negotiations. We’re not in the local organising committee. top International Olympic Com- expected until late in the year phase of speaking about any This is over and above a dozen mittee leaders in repeating a or early in 2021, which accounts concrete results,” he said. permanent Olympic sponsors message they’ve failed to for the uncertainty. Surveys have shown a who have signed long-term convey forcefully enough to The subtext is assuring committee CEO Toshiro Muto “The fact the Olympics are majority of Japanese companies with the IOC. Some also have deep-pocketed sponsors: Trust sponsors that the Olympics will has acknowledged the word’s going to take place - the fact and the pubic don’t think the individual contracts with Tokyo us, the Tokyo Olympics will happen. Tokyo organising not getting out. itself - is not fully distributed to Olympics will happen next year organisers. Sport WEDNESDAY 23 SEPTEMBER 2020 08 Jordan buys NASCAR team, Bubba to be driver The timing seemed perfect as NASCAR is AFP — LOS ANGELES “The opportunity to own chiefs to ban the Confederate evolving and my own racing team in part- flag from racetracks used on Basketball icon Michael Jordan nership with my friend Denny the circuit. embracing social (pictured) announced he has Hamlin, and to have Bubba The flag has long been a change more and purchased a NASCAR Cup Wallace driving for us is very staple at NASCAR tracks in the more. In addition to series charter team and exciting for me.” sport’s southern US heartlands, the recent recruited trailblazing black Jordan, who also owns the but it remains a symbol of commitment and driver Bubba Wallace to race Charlotte Hornets NBA team, slavery and racism for many. for the new outfit next season. said he hoped his ownership NASCAR later banned displays donations I have made Jordan, widely regarded to could bring new audiences to of the flag at its races. to combat systemic be the greatest player in NBA the white-dominated world of Wallace was involved in racism, I see this as a history with an estimated net NASCAR and boost controversy in June, after his chance to educate a worth of $1.6bn, will be the involvement of minorities. team reported that a noose had new audience and majority owner in the new “Historically, NASCAR has been found hanging in the franchise with veteran racer struggled with diversity and systemic racism, I see this as a confirmed earlier this month team garage at Talladega open more Denny Hamlin as minority there have been few black chance to educate a new that he would not race again Superspeedway. opportunities for black partner. owners,” Jordan said. audience and open more for Richard Petty A subsequent investigation people in racing. “Growing up in North “The timing seemed perfect opportunities for black people Motorsports. by the FBI determined Wallace Carolina, my parents would as NASCAR is evolving and in racing.” Wallace has spoken out had not been the victim of a Basketball icon take my brothers, sisters and embracing social change more Wallace, the only black against racism repeatedly this hate crime and that the noose me to races, and I’ve been a and more. In addition to the driver in NASCAR, will year in the wake of George was a pull-down rope on a Michael Jordan NASCAR fan my whole life,” recent commitment and dona- spearhead the team behind the Floyd’s killing in Minneapolis, garage door that had been Jordan said in a statement. tions I have made to combat wheel. The 26-year-old had and in June called on NASCAR there since 2019. NHL: Lightning hold off Stars to level Stanley Cup Final 1-1

REUTERS — EDMONTON

Tampa Bay’s power-play unit finally snapped out of their slumber to help the Lightning secure a 3-2 win over the Dallas Stars and tie the National Hockey League’s (NHL) Stanley Cup Final at one game apiece. The Lightning, who had The Tampa Boston Celtics guard Kemba Walker and guard Marcus Smart (right) gone 0-for-14 on the power Bay Lightning high five during the second half of game three of the Eastern play over their past four games, got two goals with the man celebrate the Conference Finals against the Miami Heat. advantage in Game Two of a win over the best-of-seven championship Dallas Stars series being held in Edmonton in game two Boston Celtics closer to limit travel and minimize of the 2020 COVID-19 risk. Stanley Cup “This was an emotional Final at Rogers than ever after Miami game,” said Tampa Bay forward Place. Anthony Cirelli. “There were ups and some Heat meltdown: Smart downs. It’s always good to come out with the win here. That’s AFP — MIAMI who play with their heart on one, and we have to come out their sleeves, night in, night out, hard next game.” Boston Celtics star Marcus and we weren’t supposed to be Three first-period goals John Klingberg five seconds “He’s been huge for us, best to have restored Tampa Bay’s Smart says the locker-room happy down 2-0, especially over a four-minute span, after Palat was serving a two- player almost every game,” said two-goal cushion near the bust-up following last week’s those two games that we gave including power-play tallies minute slashing penalty. Palat. “In the first game we midway mark of the final frame defeat to the Miami Heat has up. from Brayden Point and Ondrej The Stars had another didn’t help him much but today but Dallas coach Rick Bowness brought the team closer “Of course emotions are Palat, put Tampa Bay in control power-play opportunity before he was awesome.” challenged the play and a together as they chase a series- going to fly, but we’re a family early. Kevin Shattenkirk’s goal the second intermission and The Stars pulled to within a review showed it was clearly levelling victory today. and that happens.” made it 3-0. created a flurry of chances but goal when Mattias Janmark offside. Smart reportedly stormed Smart added that the Dallas finally got on the Lightning goalie Andrei Vasi- scored his first of the playoffs Vasilevskiy stopped 27 shots out of the Celtics dressing room dressing room row had helped board with five minutes left in levskiy turned aside all five early in the third period to set for the Lightning while Dallas after Boston blew a 17-point him see his team-mates in a the second period when Joe shots he faced during the two- up a tense finish. netminder Anton Khudobin lead before slumping to a different light. Pavelski tipped in a shot from minute penalty. Mikhail Sergachev looked made 28 saves. 106-101 loss to Miami in game “I knew we were emotional. two of the NBA Eastern Con- I knew we were passionate, ference finals last Thursday. and I knew we all loved each Boston fought their way other. But I also learned a lot.... back into the best-of-seven we grew up even more through Oakland Athletics clinch AL West title series in game three on Sat- that adversity,” he said. urday, defeating Miami “I’ve always been saying 117-106 to cut the Heat’s lead that before you see the rainbow OAKLAND AP — pandemic-shortened season. Oakland to 2-1. it has to storm. For us that was They will be home for a best- Athletics That victory leaves the a storm that we had to go The Oakland Athletics clinched of-three playoff series players series finely balanced as Boston through. We found our happy their first AL West title since beginning September 29. celebrate prepare to face Miami in game place. 2013 on Monday night with an Oakland was off on Monday during four in Orlando today. “Like I said, families fight, assist from the rival Houston before opening an interleague match Speaking to reporters on but for us to be able to respond Astros. series at Dodger Stadium. against Monday, Smart compared the like we did and to be able to Houston lost 6-1 to the Since last season ended, the San locker room recriminations have that growth, it shows a lot. Seattle Mariners, ending its slugging A’s have emphasised Francisco that followed game two to a “The way I responded and three-year reign as division the need to win the division Giants, family argument, describing it my team-mates responded, it champion and making the A’s given they won 97 games each in this as “electrifying.” showed that we’re as close as the first team in the majors to of the last two years and lost the September “We’re a family. Family ever. We say what we have to lock up a division crown in this AL wild-card game. 18, 2020 fights all the time,” the 26-year- say. We all come together, we file photo. old point guard said. get our emotions out and we “I fight with my brothers all go take it out on the other the time. But at the end of the team.” The Oakland Athletics clinched their first AL West title since 2013 day, we can fight with each The Celtics are bidding to on Monday night with an assist from the rival Houston Astros. Oakland is in the play-offs out his former club for cheating other, nobody else can. return to the NBA Finals for the Houston lost 6-1 to the Seattle Mariners, ending its three-year for a third straight year and the in an article published by The “You know, it happens first time since 2010, when they reign as division champion and making the A’s the first team in sixth time in nine seasons. Athletic in November. between families, especially a lost to the Los Angeles Lakers the majors to lock up a division crown in this A’s right-hander Mike Fiers Houston won a major family like ours who’s been in seven games. pandemic-shortened season. was the whistleblower in the league-best 107 games last together for so long. It’s going The Lakers lead the Astros’ off-season sign-stealing season but lost to Washington to happen. Western Conference finals 2-0 scandal when he publicly called in the World Series. “We’ve got a lot of guys against the Denver Nuggets. Unmasked: NFL fines coaches, teams for not covering faces

AP — NEW YORK More coaches and clubs can expect Gruden wore his mask like a chin similar punishments as the memo last strap, and Payton sported his gaiter like NFL coaches thumbed their collective week from Troy Vincent, who oversees a turtleneck. The scenes were similar -- and exposed -- noses at the NFL’s the league’s football operations, was on Sunday with head coaches and mask mandate in Week 2. largely ignored throughout the assistants apparently finding it too hard The league responded with hefty weekend. to keep their faces covered as required Seattle Seahawks fines of $100,000 per coach and Among other offenders: Patriots under the league’s COVID-19 protocols head coach Pete $250,000 per club. The first three to coach Bill Belichick and his offensive with either a mask, gaiter or face Carroll (front, right) get fined were Denver’s Vic Fangio, San coordinator Josh McDaniels, Chiefs shield. celebrates following Francisco’s Kyle Shanahan and Seat- defensive coordinator Steve Spag- In his strongly worded memo, the final play of tle’s Pete Carroll, according to a person nuolo, Colts coach Frank Reich and Vincent said teams “must remain vig- a 35-30 victory with knowledge of the punishment, Rams coach Sean McVay. ilant and disciplined in following the against the New who spoke because the coaches were Capping a weekend of deliberate processes and protocols put in place England Patriots at not identified. defiance and/or desultory disobe- by not only the league, union and clubs, CenturyLink Field on The punishment was meted out a dience, Raiders coach Jon Gruden, who but also by state and local Sunday. week after the NFL reminded team said last week he felt Vincent’s memo governments.” personnel on the sidelines about the was directed at him, and Saints coach Vincent added that: “Becoming rules for wearing face coverings during Sean Payton were shown on a split careless or ignoring face covering and the coronavirus pandemic, lest they screen Monday night, both of them physical distancing requirements will put the fledgling season at risk. breaking the rules. put the 2020 season at risk.”