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Tuesday, February 23, 2021 TENNIS Rajab 11, 1442 AH Djokovic’s ‘sublime GULF TIMES 9’ a statement to the chasing pack SPORT Page 6 QNB STARS LEAGUE Cazorla’s stoppage time strike breaks Al Arabi hearts Table toppers Al Sadd now need just one win from the five remaining matches to wrap up the title

By Sports Reporter

l Sadd secured an astonish- ing 3-2 comeback win over Al Arabi in an electrify- ing Derby to maintain Atheir unbeaten status in the QNB Stars League at the Jassim Bin Hamad Sta- dium yesterday. Xavi Hernandez’s men were just minutes away from suff ering their fi rst loss of the season, but Bagh- dad Bounedjah equalised in the 90th minute before Santi Cazorla’s thunder- bolt strike two minutes later gave them a remarkable victory. Table toppers Al Sadd now need just one win from the fi ve remaining match- es to wrap up the title. The Wolves have 47 points from 17 matches, 13 more than their fi erce rivals Al Duhail, who beat Al Gharafa 2-1 yesterday. “It was a crazy match and we de- served to win. We respect Al Arabi team a lot, but they relied on time wasting throughout the match. Therefore, win- ning in the last minutes was well de- served,” a delighted Xavi said. “In the fi rst half we did not play well and this gave Al Arabi the advan- tage. But our performance improved Al Duhail’s Mohamed Muntari (centre) celebrates with teammates after scoring in the second half and we succeeded against Al Gharafa at the Suheim Bin Hamad stadium. in achieving victory. I am proud of my players’ performance, especially in diffi cult angle as the clock reached the the lead again with a header from close the second half. We have achieved an double fi gures. range after a fi ne cross following an at- amazing victory. We have not lost yet Al Gharafa too created chances that tack from the left fl ank. this season and we need one victory to included their 17th minute attack when Al Gharafa, aiming to bounce back, win the QNB Stars League,” the Al Sadd Al Sadd’s Santi Cazorla (left) vies for the ball with Al Arabi’s Ahmed Fatehi during the QNB Stars League match at the Jassim Kodjia stormed near the danger area, made a fi ery attack in stoppage time, coach said. Bin Hamad Stadium yesterday. but Al Duhail defenders were well in but the rival goalkeeper made a fl ying Al Arabi, who were without coach time to thwart him. Just a few moments save from Adlene Guedioura’s bullet Heimir Hallgrimsson in the dugout Al Arabi shocked Al Sadd with an early right upright in the 54th minute. Soon, stadium. Mohamed Muntari (19th later, Al Duhail went ahead when Mun- from near the penalty area to keep Sabri after the Icelander tested positive for goal, with Soria heading in a measured Al Sadd captain Hassan al-Haydous’ minute) and Dudu (44th minute) scored tari, unmarked near the penalty area, Lamouchi-coached side in lead at half- coronavirus, went ahead after Sebas- cross from the right by Mehrdad Mo- shot was blocked by Al Arabi goalkeeper for Duhail, while Jonathan Kodjia (24th fi red a left-footed shot into the net fol- time. The second session started in tian Soria’s found the net in the 10th hammadi. In fact, Mehrdad gave the Mahmoud Abunada and Bounedjah hit minute) struck one for Al Gharafa from lowing a corner kick by Dudu. similar fashion, with both sides creat- minute. Rodrigo Tabata equalised for assist for their second goal as well with one wide of the target. the penalty spot. The Red Knights con- However, Al Gharafa did not have to ing opportunities to score. Kodjia and Al Sadd in the 63rd minute but Youssef a through pass that was translated into Tabata drew level for Al Sadd by plac- solidated their second spot with 34 wait much to fi nd an equaliser as they Dudu both came close to scoring their Msakni restored the lead for Arabi in goal by Msakni with a long-range shot. ing the ball home in a goalmouth melee, points, while Al Gharafa stayed on 27 won a penalty after al-Brake committed second goal during the exchanges, but the 77th minute. The Dream Team, Al Arabi were a determined lot, just like with Nam doing the spadework along points. As Duhail got off to a fast start, a foul against Homam al-Ameen near none of the teams succeeded in fi nding who had not lost since their defeat to Al they performed against Al Sadd in the the left goalline. After Msakni took Al was on target early the goal post. Kodjia hit a confi dent low a goal in the second half as Al Duhail Sadd in the Amir Cup fi nal two months 2019-20 season Amir Cup fi nal before Arabi ahead for a second time, Al Sadd when he headed the ball past Al Gharafa shot from the spot, fi ring the ball past a emerged as victorious. ago, looked like securing a famous win going down fi ghting. did not lose heart and their concert- goalkeeper Yousef Hassan in a third- diving goalkeeper Salah Zakaria. Later, Al Rayyan eased past Al before Bounedjah and Cazorla broke On the half-hour mark, Msakni was ed eff orts bore fruit when Bounedjah minute corner kick. But referee Abdul- Five minutes before half-time, ref- Kharaitiyat 3-0. Gabriel Mercado (45), their hearts. just thwarted by Al Sadd goalkeeper headed home Guilherme Torres’ long hadi al-Ruaile, after consulting with eree Alasmar reversed his decision of Naif al-Hadhrami (52nd minute) and Al Sadd had more of the ball in the Meshaal Barsham. At the other end, cross from the right. Cazorla sealed the VAR, disallowed the Kenyan striker’s awarding another penalty to Kodjia fol- Yacine Brahimi (85th minute) scored fi rst half with 61 per cent even though Bounedjah thrice and his teammate Nam issue in favour of Al Sadd by fi ring in a goal, declaring Sultan al-Brake off side. lowing Al Brake’s challenge against him the goals for Al Rayyan, who climbed Al Arabi took the half-time break with Tae-Hee once missed the target. Action missile as a thriller came to a close. Olunga got another opportunity – after checking with VAR. to third with 28 points. Al Kharaitiyat a 1-0 lead. The fast-paced game saw continued to be hot in the second half Earlier, Al Duhail edged past Al to score after a fi ne ball from Assim In the penultimate minute of the fi rst remain at the bottom of the table with both teams attack from the word go and and Cazorla hit a grounder against the Gharafa 2-1 at the Suheim Bin Hamad Madibo, but he hit the ball wide from a half, Brazilian Dudu put Al Duhail in six points.

BOTTOMLINE Grand reception for trophy at Toyota showroom atar Cup trophy was given a opportunity to sponsor the prestigious grand reception at the Toyota tournament. Showroom, Al Abdulghani Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros. Co., as Tower, by the management of part of its corporate policy, has been al- AbdullahQ Abdulghani & Bros. Co. The ways supporting major activities in the Trophy Tour to the Toyota Showroom country, be it sports, cultural, social, was a part of the promotion of the Qa- educational etc., with the intention to tar Cup of which the fi nal will be played provide a strong national feel and show on Friday, the February 26 between Al respect to the great nation of Qatar. Duhail and Al Sadd. Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros. Co. is The Trophy was received at the Al a leader in the Qatari Automotive Mar- Abdulghani Tower by Abdulrahman ket, with customers appreciating the Abduljaleel al-Abdulghani, AAB Acting quality, durability & reliability of Toy- Chairman, RK Murugan, Acting CEO, ota products. along with Senior Managers and Staff . Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros. Co. The Trophy was accompanied by Nass- W.L.L. Toyota was established in 1958 er Yaqoub Laram Salmeen, Director of as part of Qatar’s infrastructure devel- Sales & Marketing at the Qatar Stars opment. In 1964, Abdullah Abdulghani League (QSL). & Bros. was awarded the Toyota Deal- Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros. Co. ership. As one of the forerunners of is the Offi cial Automotive Partner of successful businesses in Qatar, Abdul- Qatar Cup and the company has been lah Abdulghani & Bros. Toyota has es- supporting football in the country for tablished a name for itself with sound many years. The management of Ab- business practices and ethics – a repu- dullah Abdulghani & Bros. Co. took tation earned through honesty, integ- the opportunity to thank the QSL for rity and impeccable relationship with bringing the esteemed trophy to the its customers, business partners and Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros. Co. Acting Chairman Abdulrahman Abduljaleel al-Abdulghani, Acting CEO RK Murugan and senior Managers and staff pose with the Qatar Toyota Showroom as well as giving it an employees. Cup trophy at the Toyota Showroom, Al Abdulghani Tower. Gulf Times 2 Tuesday, February 23, 2021 FOOTBALL

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SPOTLIGHT Aspire launches insightful series Coach Tuchel wary featuring star players spire Academy through Player Insight fi rst episode its widely acclaimed was broadcasted on both AlKass initiative, “Aspire in Sports Channels One HD Arabic the World Fellows” and English, on Aspire Fellows of Suarez coming launchedA a bi-weekly pro- website, Aspire Academy social gramme, named “Player Insight”. media platforms and other local The opening show aired yester- and international sports chan- day and featured Leonardo Bo- nels. nucci, the Italian national team “Aspire in the World Fellows” and Juventus centre-back. is a programme launched by As- Speaking about the pro- pire Academy in 2014 with the back to bite Chelsea gramme, Aspire Academy Di- goal to embrace, gather and lead rector of Football Performance the best practitioners in world ‘This is a very experienced club at this level and a tough coach to play against’ and Science, Professor Valter Di youth football in consolidating Salvo spelt out the aim, saying: and developing the knowledge AFP “Player Insight is a programme pool in the world of football per- London within Aspire in the World Fel- formance and science. The ac- lows project with the goal to let tivity leans on the cornerstone of the players express their point Aspire Academy Global Summit helsea boss Thomas Tuchel re- of view on the game of football, and Fellows Gatherings. vealed he is such a fan of Luis providing an insight on training As well as regular gatherings Suarez that he tried to sign the methodologies, competition ex- in Doha and events in Europe to Uruguayan for Paris Saint-Ger- posure and their overall experi- develop their ideas, members are mainC before he made the move from Bar- ences and feelings on the beauti- supported by a cutting-edge on- celona to Atletico Madrid in September. ful game.” line portal enabling the spread of Tuchel is now tasked with stopping Kicking of the series with a best practice, trends and the lat- Suarez, who has fi red Los Rojiblancos to stalwart defender like Bonucci est thinking. Taken together, the the top of La Liga, when the face indicates the punch and gravitas various elements of the commu- the Spanish side in the fi rst leg of their packed in this new addition to nity’s activity provide a powerful Champions League last-16 tie today. the hugely successful, “Aspire platform to support the broader Seven games into his reign as Chelsea in the World Fellows” platform. development of football around manager, Tuchel remains unbeaten, with Bonucci is recognised as one of the world. the Londoners fi fth in the the best defenders in world foot- The Fellows web-based plat- and into the FA Cup quarter-fi nals. How- ball and was part of the Juventus form (https://fellows.aspire.qa/) ever, the German is aware he faces his team that won six consecutive serves the purpose of fostering biggest challenge yet against an Atletico Serie A titles between 2012 and ongoing debate and discussion side with bags of experience in knock- 2017. The defender has had a amongst Aspire Fellows. The out Champions League ties under Diego colourful international career platform also enables the Fellows Simeone. playing at two FIFA World Cups to share content on their own “This is for sure a big test – sporting, (2010 and 2014) as well as fi nish- Club/National Team training mentally and physically,” Tuchel said ing with a runners-up medal at methodologies, application of yesterday. “This is a very experienced 2012 European Championships. technology, research and other club at this level, a very experienced and Bonucci the hard-tackling de- relevant sources of information. tough coach to play against. It’s clear fender is a worthy star player Through this tool, the Commu- when you play against Atletico what you to kick off the latest production nity is able to continue working get. You get hard fi ghting and there are from world-renowned Aspire throughout the year on defi ned many teams who have experienced this.” Academy. topics. Atletico’s style has evolved this sea- son, though, to accommodate a range of attacking options including Suarez, Joao Felix and Marcos Llorente. Suarez is La Liga’s joint top goalscorer alongside former teammate and close friend Lionel Messi, suggesting that Barcelona’s desire to offl oad the 34-year-old was hasty. Tuchel, then PSG boss, was keen to reunite Suarez with another departed Barca superstar – Neymar – to form a Seven games into his reign as Chelsea manager, Thomas Tuchel (left) remains unbeaten, with the Londoners fifth in the Premier frightening front three also featuring League and into the FA Cup quarter-finals. (AFP) Kylian Mbappe. “There was a possibil- ity,” Tuchel said. “We heard the rumours mentality to show his will, intensity and on the present rather than settling old advantage to his side, with the away goals he was about to leave Barcelona and who anger to score and score and score and is scores. “For me it’s never a good thing rule still in operation. “Clearly, yes it is cannot be interested to sign one of the never satisfi ed. What a mentality! What a to look too far behind,” he said. “We look a disadvantage for Atletico to lose their best strikers in world football, in history player!” forward and we play him tomorrow. We home ground,” he said. “We don’t have to and the present? Suarez has a history with Chelsea. know about his qualities, we will be aware talk around that.” “We tried our luck. We did not make One of his three high-profi le biting in- of it and we try to stop him from scoring.” Tuchel will be without experienced de- it, he chose to stay in Spain with Atletico cidents left its mark on former Blues de- The match will take place in Bucharest fender Thiago Silva with the Brazilian re- and again he proves his quality. He is a fender Branislav Ivanovic during Suarez’s rather than Madrid due to coronavirus covering from a knock but midfi elder Kai natural-born striker. He has the certain time in England with Liverpool. Tuchel, travel restrictions. And Tuchel accepted Havertz and forward Christian Pulisic are mentality that only strikers have. This though, insisted Chelsea have to focus that an away leg at a neutral venue was an in contention.

FOCUS Atletico show Chelsea virtue of stability under Simeone AFP £220mn on new players in a defl ated The Spanish side may have missed out London transfer market due to the economic in agonising fashion twice in Champions impact of coronavirus, Chelsea fi nd League fi nals to local rivals Real in extra- themselves fi fth in the Premier League. time in 2014 and on penalties two years The opening show aired yesterday featured Juventus’ Italian homas Tuchel knew from his fi rst Another change of manager deemed nec- later. But the stability brought about by defender Leonardo Bonucci. (AFP) day in charge at Chelsea the hire- essary by Abramovich just to salvage a Simeone has allowed Los Rojiblancos to and-fi re culture that managers top-four fi nish and Champions League establish themselves as consistent con- face when working under Roman football next season. Atletico’s form has tenders in the latter stages of European TAbramovich. “What does it change?” dipped in recent weeks, but they still en- competition. QATAR RANKED 58TH IN Tuchel responded when asked in his fi rst joy a three-point lead at the top of La Liga On top of two runs to the fi nal, Atletico press conference if he was concerned at with a game in hand over Real Madrid to have reached a semi-fi nal, two quarter- LATEST FIFA RANKINGS being handed just an 18-month contract. spare. Abramovich can claim that his re- fi nals and won the Europa League in the “If they gave me four-and-a half years fusal to accept any decline in standards two seasons they did not make the Cham- Zurich: Qatar are ranked 58 in America, UEFA EURO and Con- and they are not happy, they will sack me has been rewarded. No English club has pions League knockout stages under the latest FIFA world rankings, cacaf Gold Cup) as well as the anyway.” won as many trophies as Chelsea in the Simeone. That is all the more impressive the the first for the year 2021. resumption of qualifying for Despite seeing the fate of prestigious Russian’s 18-year reign. That includes given Atletico do not enjoy the wealth Coached by Spaniard Felix the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. predecessors like Jose Mourinho, Carlo the only Champions League ever won by of their La Liga competitors Madrid and Sanchez, Qatar are still number The Top 32 places in the Ancelotti and Antonio Conte, who were Atletico Madrid’s coach Diego Simeone. a London club in 2012. Barcelona. Even Chelsea with the backing 5 in Asia behind Japan, Iran, standings in the world remain all sacked after winning Premier League But for a club of Chelsea’s resources, of an oligarch in Abramovich have strug- South Korea and Australia fol- unchanged since the end of titles at Stamford Bridge, and a club leader in Diego Simeone. Since Simeone the lack of progress in Europe’s premier gled to compete for the best talent since lowed by Saudi Arabia, the UAE 2020. Belgium, , Brazil, legend in Frank Lampard, who was dis- took over a sleeping giant in 2011, Chelsea club competition suggests there have the emergence of state-funded projects and Syria. England and Portugal continue missed last month, Tuchel has embraced have had nine permanent managers. been consequences for constant re- backing Manchester City and Paris The fight for top spot to occupy the top spots, with the challenge he now faces. The two sides meet for the fi rst leg of gime change. Since losing to Atletico in Saint-Germain. Time and again Simeone promises to be an exciting one the leading trio of Belgium, In stark contrast to the Chelsea model, their Champions League last 16 tie today the semi-fi nals of the 2013-14 season, has seen sides dismantled and had to re- this year with a string of major France and Brazil only sepa- Atletico Madrid’s rise over the past dec- in Bucharest on the back of contrast- Chelsea have not won a single knockout build given Atletico’s place in European tournaments scheduled (Copa rated by 37 points. ade has been built around one talismanic ing seasons so far. Despite splashing out Champions League tie. football’s food chain.

BOTTOMLINE Flick demands embattled Bayern Munich bounce back at Lazio AFP ed positive for Covid-19. Midfi elder positive for the coronavirus. Accord- Berlin Corentin Tolisso is also sidelined by a ing to reports, the entire squad is tested long-term thigh injury. almost daily and the players have been Nevertheless, Flick is demanding the told to stay at home, unless at training ayern Munich coach Hansi Bundesliga leaders respond at Rome’s or matches. Flick insists there can be no Olympic Stadium. “We all know what “We have many tests, it’s part of excuses when the Champi- has happened in the last few days,” Flick life,” said winger Kingsley Coman, who ons League holders face Lazio added. “I’m not looking for excuses. scored the winning goal in last sea- awayB in today’s last 16, fi rst leg after We weren’t good against Bielefeld and son’s Champions League fi nal. “There a recent dip in form. “I want my team Frankfurt. We have to see that we’re fi t are many rules and regulations, but we to be switched on from the start and I again for the Champions League. These have to meet all these precautions to be have total confi dence they will do that are special games which should moti- able to play.” at Lazio,” Flick said in yesterday’s press vate the players.” Over the weekend, chairman Karl- conference. Bayern suff ered a 2-1 de- Defender Niklas Suele is carrying a Heinz Rummenigge took a swipe at the feat at Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday knock, so Joshua Kimmich is expected team’s poor form. “We’re too incon- following a 3-3 draw against strugglers to switch from midfi eld to right-back. sistent,” Rummenigge said. “We some- Arminia Bielefeld upon their return Flick said Germany midfi elder Leon times only put in the eff ort over the last from winning the Club World Cup in Goretzka will make his fi rst start since few metres,” he added after Bayern had Qatar 11 days ago. contracting Covid-19 in January. found themselves 2-0 down against The strength in depth of Bayern’s Bayern have reportedly tightened both Frankfurt and Bielefeld. “That squad has been tested since Benjamin their hygiene rules since Pavard be- (dropping fi ve points) is unusual for FC Pavard and Thomas Mueller both test- came the fourth player this year to test Bayern and not what we had in mind.” Hans-Dieter Flick’s (left) Bayern suff ered a 2-1 defeat at Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday. (AFP) Gulf Times Tuesday, February 23, 2021 3 FOOTBALL

LIGUE 1 PREMIER LEAGUE United’s Solskjaer not giving up hope Monaco get better of catching Man City

AFP A run of two wins in 14 games London has left Newcastle just three points clear of the drop zone, but remains confi dent le Gunnar Solskjaer is his side will survive. “Fulham of old boy Mbappe not giving up hope that have had a good week and won Manchester United can a couple of games, which at the challenge Manchester bottom end of the table is big, but CityO for the Premier League ti- there are a few of us: Brighton, tle, despite the scintillating form Burnley and maybe Crystal Pal- of the league leaders. City have ace looking over their shoulders,” soared 10 points clear of their lo- said Bruce. “My message to the cal rivals thanks to an 18-game supporters is that I’m convinced to dent PSG hopes winning streak in all competi- we’ll be ok.” tions. Poor goalkeeping cost Bruce’s United’s own inconsistent men the opening goal on the half PSG find themselves a point behind Lyon in second and four points adrift of Lille form has helped open up the hour mark as Rashford wriggled gap, but the Red Devils beat free inside the area, but his shot AFP Newcastle 3-1 on Sunday to win should have been kept out by Paris for just the second time in six Karl Darlow. league games. “We’ve got to be United’s sloppy defending there just in case,” said Solskjaer. from set-pieces was punished aris Saint-Germain suff ered a “Every time we get three points six minutes later, though, when Champions League hangover as we’ve done our job and that’s Saint-Maximin swept the ball a 2-0 home defeat against Kylian what we’ve got to do and see into the top corner after Harry Mbappe’s old side Monaco on what other teams do.” Maguire only half-cleared a cross PSunday night damaged their Ligue 1 ti- Bruno Fernandes and Marcus into the box. After a blistering tle hopes after Lille earlier reclaimed top Rashford were again on target on start to his United career last spot. Sofi ane Diop and Guillermo Mari- a night United needed their star season, Dan James has struggled pan scored to give Monaco the points as men to paper over the cracks of for game time, but the Welshman they stretched their unbeaten run to 11 another unconvincing perform- has now scored in his last three games and moved to within two points of ance. Solskjaer made fi ve chang- appearances as he blasted past their opponents, who sit in third place. es to the side that impressively Darlow from close range just be- While Monaco remain in contention thrashed Real Sociedad 4-0 in fore the hour mark. for a return to the Champions League, the Europa League on Thursday More good footwork from PSG fi nd themselves a point behind Lyon and was lucky not to be pun- Rashford then drew in second and four points adrift of Lille, ished for a disjointed start from into an ill-advised challenge in- who retook top spot earlier on Sunday the hosts. “We had to fi nd a way side the box and the on-loan Ar- with a 4-1 win at Lorient. to win it in the second-half. The senal midfi elder conceded a pen- It was a disappointing night for PSG as fi rst-half wasn’t up to the stand- alty. Darlow had saved the only they failed to pick up where they left off in ard that we wanted,” added Sol- spot-kick Fernandes has missed midweek, when they destroyed Barcelona skjaer. “Maybe because of New- as a United player when the sides in the fi rst leg of their Champions League castle, maybe because of what met earlier in the season. But he last-16 tie, Mbappe scoring a hat-trick in we did in the week. We asked was wrong-footed this time as a 4-1 win. them to go again after a high-in- the Portuguese playmaker cool- “We were not at the level we need to tensity game and it took us to half ly converted to give United the be at to win, and as coach I take respon- time to get our legs and energy.” two-goal cushion they craved. sibility for that,” said coach Mauricio Po- chettino, who left Marco Verratti on the bench at kick-off in the only change from the Barcelona game. “We spoke about the importance of maintaining our concen- tration levels, but we can’t exactly repli- cate our performance from one evening to the next.” There is now a genuine chance that PSG will miss out on the Ligue 1 title for the fi rst time since Mbappe’s Monaco Monaco’s Guillermo Maripan (second right) celebrates with teammates after scoring against Paris Saint-Germain. (AFP) pipped them in 2017. Almost exactly fi ve years to the day after he scored his Ander Herrera inside the box and coolly cede a lot of chances,” said Monaco coach in Brittany. Gravillon defl ected Jonathan fi rst Ligue 1 goal as a 17-year-old for the slotted into the corner for what was al- Niko Kovac, as he played down his club’s David’s shot into his own net midway principality side, Mbappe was kept quiet ready his fi fth goal in 2021. chances of fi nishing in the top three and through the fi rst half, only for Jerome by the Monaco defence, while Neymar Mbappe had scored seven times in returning to the Champions League. “At Hergault to equalise. Veteran centre- watched from the stands as he continues seven previous games against his old club the moment it is too early because we are back Fonte restored Lille’s advantage in to recover from injury. since joining PSG in 2017, but he could not not yet on the same level as Lille, Lyon the 38th minute and French international Monaco had already beaten the Paris- add to that tally as Monaco became the and PSG,” he said. Ikone curled in a free-kick just before the ians at home in November and they went fi rst team to beat PSG twice in the same Earlier, Jonathan Ikone’s fi ne free- hour mark. in front here in the sixth minute when Ligue 1 season since Nancy in 2011/12. kick helped Lille ease to victory at Lori- Lorient had gone unbeaten through Ruben Aguilar knocked down Kevin Vol- They are the third team to beat PSG at ent. Lyon had gone to the summit on goal their previous fi ve outings, notably beat- land’s cross for Diop to head in. the Parc des Princes in Ligue 1 this sea- diff erence with a 3-2 victory at Brest on ing PSG and holding Monaco, to boost The home side failed to muster a shot son, after Marseille and Lyon. “We said Friday, but Lille responded to make it a their survival hopes. However, Bradaric on target in the fi rst half and continued to we must delete Kylian Mbappe because he club record seven straight away wins in wrapped up a big win for Lille in stop- lack inspiration after the break, as Mona- is a great striker, keep the ball away from the top fl ight, with Jose Fonte and Doma- page time, plunging Lorient back into the co doubled their lead in the 51st minute. his side, and I think we showed another goj Bradaric also scoring after Andreaw bottom three on goal diff erence behind Manchester United’s midfielder Daniel James (right) celebrates Chilean defender Maripan dispossessed side to our team because we didn’t con- Gravillon’s own goal had put them ahead Nantes. scoring against Newcastle in the Premier League on Sunday. (AFP)

SPOTLIGHT QFA and ASEAN Football Federation to hold digital learning webinar Doha: As part of the “Digital Learning” se- lectures to be delivered by a group of inter- International Football Tournaments in Light Bielsa says Leeds should wait ries, Qatar Football Association and ASEAN nationally known experts in this field. These of the Covid-19 Pandemic, and the precau- Football Federation will hold a second lectures will focus on the importance of tionary measures it took to guarantee the workshop between today and February understanding the global impact of match success of several football events in spite of before extending his contract 25, aiming to raise awareness of – and to fixing. Additionally, it will promote skills in the pandemic. combat – fraud, match fixing and illegal reporting related issues, raise awareness of The webinar will bring together senior betting activities that distort the integrity the threats posed by sports betting to in- members of each organization, as well of football. ternational football, and propose solutions as representatives from Australia, Brunei This series takes place within the context including enhanced information exchange Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, of strengthening cooperation and activat- and well-defined common goals. Philippines, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, ing the Memorandum of Understanding The second day of the webinar will Thailand, Timor Leste and Vietnam. between the football federations, as well discuss the security and safety of sport- In the words of Saoud al-Mohannadi, as reflecting the urgent need to share ing events, during which participants will QFA’s Vice-President: “Qatar Football Asso- knowledge on the latest developments in study examples from the English Premier ciation and the ASEAN Football Federation this area. League – providing insights that will help in are honored to organize this series of webi- This is the second consecutive webinar managing policy and building supportive nars. We are thrilled to work together, once to be held by the QFA, with the participa- relationships in leading institutions. In addi- again, to progress our plans for promoting tion of all 12 AFF Member Associations. Like tion, it will discuss the means of interaction mutual consensus on the importance of the first, it is part of a new digital education and enable responsible teamwork between capacity building in the ASEAN football sec- series developed in partnership with the all interested parties, including clubs and tor, especially during Covid-19 pandemic.” AFF in 2019. It is expected that 2021 will see supporters’ associations – not least in the He added: “The second webinar in this further joint projects, including a number area of securing safe access routes for series emphasizes the importance of inter- of workshops and webinars, within the people with special needs. national cooperation in all economic sec- framework of this agreement. In its third day, the webinar will shed tors, including the sports industry. That’s The webinar program includes several light on Qatar’s experience in Organizing why it is crucial to create an opportunity.”

SERIE A AFP case. In no way do I want to posi- “It’s up to him. We wait on his London tion myself above the club. I re- decision but, in any case, myself iterate, I am not going to manage and Victor [Orta] have already any other options until my job analysed the options and what to Napoli’s Osimhen in hospital aft er head injury arcelo Bielsa said here at Leeds is done. There is no do in case Marcelo does not want yesterday it would speculation from my part.” to be with us. AFP Champions League clash with Real Madrid be better for Leeds Leeds, who returned to the “But I believe this team is not Milan to move fourth in Serie A. to wait until the end Premier League after a 16-year fi nished yet, Marcelo as well. After a fi rst half marked only by the red Mof the season before deciding absence, are 12th in the table after They need to come and enjoy card given to Atalanta coach Gian Piero whether to extend his contract. a disappointing run of three de- Elland Road with the fans in the apoli forward Victor Osimhen Gasperini, for arguing with the referee for The Argentine, who signed a feats in their past four matches. Premier League. It’s what he de- was stretchered off after suff er- a penalty after Matteo Pessina went down, one-year extension to his deal But they have won rave reviews serves as a manager,” he added. ing a knock to the head in Sun- the hosts dominated after the break. after Leeds won promotion to the for their adventurous attacking Bielsa, whose team host day night’s 4-2 defeat to Atalanta Colombian striker Luis Muriel set up Premier League last year, insisted play and are 10 points clear of the Southampton today, said results Nin Serie A. The Nigeria striker briefl y lost compatriot Duvan Zapata to head in seven that did not mean he does not relegation zone. in the last third of the season consciousness after hitting his head on the minutes after the break. Piotr Zielinski want to stay at Elland Road. Leeds owner Andrea Radriz- could alter the scenario. ground after a Cristian Romero challenge in pulled Napoli level six minutes later volley- “The fi rst thing I want to high- zani has made it clear he wants “If the club needs an answer stoppage time of the game in northern Italy. ing in off a Matteo Politano cross. light, because what it seems like 65-year-old Bielsa to remain before the end of the season, I The 22-year-old was taken to the city’s Robin Gosens restored Atalanta’s advan- is that the president is off ering in his role and that the club are will respond before the end of the Papa Giovanni XXIII hospital for tests, ac- tage on 64 minutes with Muriel adding a me an extension and I am delay- waiting for the Argentine’s deci- season,” he said. “But if this hap- cording to media reports. coronavirus. third seven minutes later. ing it,” said the Leeds boss. “It sion. pens I will take the time to tell The forward, who joined the club from Despite a promising start to the season he German midfi elder Gosens sent the ball could be interpreted as the club “Marcelo knows we are happy them that they should consider Lille last summer, had only returned to ac- has scored just two goals for the club. Napoli into his own net fi ve minutes later as he at- having more of a desire for me to with him,” owner Radrizzani told what happens in the last part of tion last month after being sidelined for fell to their third defeat in fi ve league games tempted to head clear but Romero headed in stay than I do and that’s not the CBS Sports. the season.” over two months with a shoulder injury and as Atalanta warmed-up for next week’s a fourth with 11 minutes to go. Gulf Times 4 Tuesday, February 23, 2021 SPORT

RUGBY France captain Ollivon among 5 new Covid cases AFP postponement of the match. Paris “We are entering a week of Hastings, Bayliss included in Scotland squad for France game preparation and I can assure you Flyhalf Adam Hastings will return to Scotland’s clubs due to injuries. Prop will that we will be ready to face Scot- squad for Sunday’s Six Nations game against also miss the game, with Scottish Rugby set to rance captain Charles land at the ,” said France following a shoulder injury, while backrow appeal his four-match ban following his red card Ollivon was among fi ve the former France captain. Josh Bayliss has been called up for the first time, in their 25-24 loss to Wales on Feb. 13. players yesterday ruled With a host of diff erent players Scottish Rugby said on Sunday. Scotland, who won against England in the open- out of this weekend’s Six joining the squad the staff , which Hastings suff ered the injury against Wales in last ing match before losing to Wales, are fourth in the NationsF clash against Scotland is already without Galthie and year’s Six Nations game in October. Six Nations standings with five points. after testing positive for Cov- forwards coach William Servat, Uncapped Bayliss has been included in the squad id-19. faces a diffi cult task to ready the after qualifying for Scotland through his Aber- SCOTLAND SQUAD The French Rugby Federation team to face Scotland. deen-born grandmother. Backs: Jamie Dobie, Darcy Graham, Chris Har- (FFR) announced Ollivon, Cyril “We have prepared an adapta- “We welcome Josh into our squad as we look to ris, Adam Hastings, Stuart Hogg (captain), Sam Baille, , Romain tion plan, you can trust Fabien,” build on our opening two games of the Champi- Johnson, Huw Jones, James Lang, Sean Maitland, Taofi fenua and have said Ibanez. onship,” head coach said in a Duhan van der Merwe, , , Scott been withdrawn from the squad “If other cases turn out to be statement. Steele, Duncan Taylor, Jaco van der Walt. after contracting the virus. omitted from the 31-man squad ouas and winger Gabin Villiere positive, we have in any case tak- “We have been following his performances with Forwards: Ewan Ashman, Josh Bayliss, Simon The new cases take the total for Sunday’s game in Paris. The who tested positive on Friday. en exceptional measures with the Bath and a combination of his form and a couple Berghan, , Dave Cherry, Alex Craig, number in the France camp to 14, FFR also revealed that hooker Ju- Uncapped forwards trio Ga- help of the Covid group which is of injuries in our squad have given us the oppor- Scott Cummings, , Grant Gilchrist, including coach Fabien Galthie lien Marchand and centre Arthur etan Barlot, Thierry Paiva and watching over the France squad. tunity to involve him for the first time.” Jonny Gray, Richie Gray, , Oli Keb- and scrum-half Antoine Du- Vincent had tested positive on Cyril Cazeaux were added to the “The tests will be tripled, we Scotland will be without centre Cameron Redpath ble, WP Nel, Cornell du Preez, Darcy Rae, Jamie pont, but there is no suggestion Saturday. 31-man squad yesterday, along will have a test every day.” and backrow pair Gary Graham and Blade Thom- Ritchie, Grant Stewart, Rory Sutherland, George of postponing the match. “With Dupont, the Six Nations player with back-rower Baptiste Pesenti Ibanez struggled to pinpoint son, who have all returned to their respective Turner, Hamish Watson. a view to isolation, the return of the season last year, is report- and full-back Thomas Ramos. how and when the coronavirus home of players and staff mem- edly asymptomatic and could, in France are top of the Six Na- infi ltrated the French ranks. bers aff ected is in progress,” the theory, have observed a seven- tions table after victories against “It’s not just the French,” he “All it takes is an infected , Gaetan Bar- ien Bezy, , Maxime federation said in a statement. day quarantine and returned for Italy and Ireland. Dupont was said. “The English coach has doorknob for the contamination lot, Teddy Baubigny, Pierre Lucu, , Matthieu “The return to collective train- the game at Stade de France. named player of the second been aff ected... and many others. to spread. It gives us a real rea- Bourgarit, , Jalibert, Pierre-Louis Barassi, ing is set for Wednesday subject The French government is in- round for his performance in the “Nobody can know how (the son to have a great game against Thierry Paiva, Killian Geraci, Cyril Gael Fickou, Jonathan Danty, to the results of tests carried out creasing the length of quarantine 15-13 win in Dublin on February French contracted the virus). Scotland.” Cazeaux, , Paul Yoram Moefana, , every 24 hours,” it added. to 10 days from Monday. March- 14. Team manager Raphael Iban- Was it in Ireland? Why didn’t it Willemse, Gregory Alldritt, Dylan Teddy Thomas, Donovan Taofif- Dupont, who tested posi- and and Vincent were also left ez said on Sunday that the French aff ect the media who are invited FRANCE SQUAD Cretin, Anthony Jelonch, Baptiste enua, Anthony Bouthier, Thomas tive last week, had already been out as were prop Mohamed Ha- were not considering asking for a to observe the training? Dorian Aldegheri, , Pesenti, Cameron Woki, Sebast- Ramos.

MOTORCYCLING We have to do better, says Alfa Romeo F1 boss Vasseur

Alfa Romeo put their new C41 Formula One car centre Fabio, the Andorran stage at Warsaw’s Grand Theatre yesterday and aimed at getting back into the midfield battle on track. The Swiss-based team have finished eighth overall for the past three years, in 2018 as Sauber, but are hoping prince hoping to become a revamped Ferrari engine provides more of a push in the last championship before major rule changes. “The philosophy of the ‘HE’S BEEN MY IDOL SINCE I WAS A LITTLE team is always the same, that we have to do a better BOY, SO IT’S A REALLY BIG DEAL’ job tomorrow than today. MotoGP king We were P8 last season, we have to target to do a better AFP winner, Quartararo is comfortable with result,” said team principal La Massana, Andorra the weight of expectation generated by Frederic Vasseur. his three wins. Alfa Romeo have Italian An- “When they call me the French motor- tonio Giovinazzi and 2007 t his home in Andorra, perched bike prodigy I see that a little as a reality. world champion Kimi Raik- high in the Pyrenees, Fabio “I’ve got enormous potential, but you konen, the oldest and most Quartararo has his sights set have to keep your feet on the ground and experienced driver on the on an horizon far beyond the work hard like I’m doing.” grid at 41-years-old and with snow-cappedA mountain range and to With the season getting underway in a record 329 race starts, in “taking the last step” to become France’s Qatar on March 28 Quartararo is getting an unchanged lineup with fi rst ever MotoGP champion. himself prepared for the battle to come Poland’s Robert Kubica in “I’m ready to win the title,” says far from the madding crowd – his home reserve. the native of Nice who graduates to at La Massana is 1,400m above sea level. Raikkonen, who made his F1 Yamaha’s factory team from the Japa- “The tranquillity is impressive, I love debut in 2001, said he was nese manufacturer’s satellite outfi t in a it.” still motivated. straight swop with nine-time champion Here, atop a trail bike, he works on his “The racing and the driving Valentino Rossi. balance, climbing rocks, slaloming art- (excites me),” he said. “I’ve “It’s been a dream come true chang- fully between trees, jumping or hurtling never been a big fan of all ing teams, and to have made that switch down vertical snow-covered walls. the rest. But I enjoy the with Valentino (Rossi),” Quartararo tells The aim? “To improve every detail, all racing and the challenge to AFP. the minor movements of the handlebars try to improve things and “He’s been my idol since I was a little that you feel during a MotoGP” to reduce getting better.” boy, so it’s a really big deal.” the risk of a fall. Living at altitude “is Only champions Mercedes Last year, in only his second season in physically benefi cial” too he suggests. and tail-enders Williams MotoGP, Quartararo was quick out of the “Even when you sleep you are produc- will also start with the same blocks, reeling off back-to-back wins ing red blood cells” – a useful ally aboard drivers as last year and in the opening two races to put himself a mechanical beast weighing over 150 technical director Jan Mon- bang in contention for the world title. kilos (24 stone) and capable of speeds of chaux said that made life But then, “huge problems with the over 300km/h (190mph). easier with limited testing motorcycle” put a spanner in his cham- He works out in a garage housing a available. pionship challenge. He ended the Cov- collections of cars and bikes, and a well The online launch, which id-19 curtailed campaign after securing used treadmill. opened with concert pian- a third win in eighth place behind Joan The doorbell rings. It’s his neighbour, ists playing music by Polish Mir. “Last season was really challeng- world rally driver Dani Sordo. composer Frederic Chopin ing,” he recalls. Quartararo makes the introduction: and Italian Giacomo Puccini, “I started out strong, but then I expe- “Here’s the expert car driver,” he says of was in Warsaw as the home rienced technical issues. the Spaniard 16 years his senior. of oil refiner and co-title “Unfortunately, it was only my second Aside from all the physical prepara- sponsor PKN Orlen. MotoGP season, so I didn’t know how to tion, Quartararo also works on the men- The mostly red and white deal with the problems properly.” tal side of things with a psychiatrist. car is an evolution of last Pandemic precautions inevitably put a “At fi rst, three years ago, it wasn’t year’s C39 with noticeable dampener on marking his opening wins. easy to talk about seeing them. For me, structural changes at the “I came straight back home. We ate it just wasn’t done, but it’s someone front end, where the team McDonald’s to celebrate! who has helped me enormously. I have have used their two devel- “I would have loved to have been able an extraordinary relationship with my opment ‘tokens’. to spend the evening with my parents, parents, but it’s my psychiatrist who has The car will have a shake- my friends and my brother but, unfortu- made me change.” down run in Barcelona on nately, I wasn’t allowed.” having to wear a mask all the time meant Quartararo himself has recovered I didn’t have the strength. It was incred- He feels now is his moment. Friday before three days of He says the ever present threat of the it felt like a very long season. from a nasty brush with coronavirus in ible to see the power of this virus,” the “I’m ready to win the championship. testing in Bahrain on March virus was a draining backdrop to the “I really hope this season will be a December. “I spent the most diffi cult 21-year-old said. “In 2019, I made the podium, last year 12-14. The season starts in 2020 campaign. little easier, because it’s mentally chal- week of my life, I was in a bed, on a sofa. – ‘Potential’ – After ending a run of some wins, all that’s missing is the fi nal Bahrain on March 28. “Not being able to see anyone and lenging for a rider.” “Even to cook for myself tired me out, 20 seasons since the last French MotoGP step, to be champion of the world.”

CYCLING Ganna wins time trial, Pogacar grabs lead

AFP Switzerland’s Stefan Bissegger. to do that,” said Pogacar. “I’m and violence. The International Al Hudayriyat, United Arab Emir- Pogacar was fourth on the day in a good position now with fi ve cycling Union have also told Van ates and inherited the leader’s red stages to go, but anything can Gansen he must attend a sexual jersey vacated by Mathieu van happen, and tomorrow we al- harassment awareness course der Poel following Alpecin-Fe- ready have the hardest fi nish for if he ever wishes to work in cy- taly’s Filippo Ganna won nix’s decision to withdraw from this Tour at Jabel Hafeet.” To- cling again. The former coach at yesterday’s 13km individ- the race after a member of the day’s third stage is a 162km run UCI Women’s World Tour team ual time trial on the second team’s staff tested positive for from Al Ain to Jebel Hafeet and Health Mate denied accusations stage of the UAE Tour as Covid-19. The Slovene holds a concludes with a summit fi nish. from more than 10 female riders ITour de France champion Tadej fi ve-second lead over Portugal’s stemming from a period of sev- Pogacar took over the race lead. Joao Almeida, who came sixth in GANSEN GETS 3-YEAR BAN eral years. Ineos rider Ganna, the reign- the time trial. Belgian cycling coach Patrick The UCI said it was happy ing time trial world champion, “I did not start with any par- Van Gansen has been banned with its ruling and said it hoped clocked 13min 56sec on the cir- ticular result in my mind, I just for three-years after an investi- to “set an important precedent cuit around Al Hudayriyat Is- wanted to go as fast and as good gation into serial complaints of in protection from sexual har- Stage winner Filippo Ganna of Team Ineos Grenadiers poses on the podium after the second stage of the land, fi nishing 14sec clear of as I could and I think I managed abuse, inappropriate behaviour assment”. UAE Cycling Tour from Al Hudayriyat Island to Al Hudayriyat Island yesterday. (AFP) Gulf Times Tuesday, February 23, 2021 5 SPORT

NBA FOCUS Timberwolves sack Nets topple Clippers head coach Saunders to end trip, Pelicans rally past Celtics ‘WE ARE A VERY CONFIDENT TEAM THAT CONTINUES TO GROW’

AFP Los Angeles

ames Harden fi nished with 37 points and 11 rebounds as the Brooklyn Nets improved to 7-0 against Pacifi c Division teams this Head coach Ryan Saunders of the Minnesota Timberwolves directs seasonJ with a 112-108 victory over the Los his team during the second half of their NBA game against the New Angeles Clippers on Sunday. York Knicks in New York City. (Getty Images/AFP) The Nets went a perfect 5-0 on their western swing road trip and extended AFP two-plus seasons. They have their win streak to a season-high six London won just seven of 31 games and games. lost eight of their past nine for Harden recorded the 77th career dou- the worst record in the NBA. ble-double and added seven assists at he Minnesota Timber- Saunders’ sacking comes af- Staples Center arena in southern Cali- wolves fi red head coach ter Minnesota lost 103-99 to the fornia. Ryan Saunders on Sun- New York Knicks on Sunday. “We just kept our composure,” he said. day after a disappointing Minnesota has been hit hard “Down the stretch we wanted to get a T7-24 start to the NBA season. by injuries and Covid-19 issues good shot every single time and we came “We would like to thank Ryan this season, with starting guard out with the win. for his time and commitment to D’Angelo Russell out for up to six the Timberwolves organization weeks after undergoing surgery and wish him the best in the fu- on his left knee. RESULTS ture,” Timberwolves president Karl-Anthony Towns con- Gersson Rosas said in a statement. tracted the coronavirus and suf- Pelicans 120-115 Celtics “These are diffi cult decisions fered a wrist injury, resulting in Nets 112-108 Clippers to make, however this change him playing just 11 games so far is in the best interest of the or- this season. Toronto Raptors as- Bucks 128-115 Kings ganisation’s short and long-term sistant coach Chris Finch is be- Magic 105-96 Pistons goals.” Saunders was 43-95 as lieved to be the frontrunner for Thunder 117-101 Cavaliers coach of the Timberwolves in the job to replace Saunders. Knicks 103-99 Timberwolves Raptors 110-103 76ers Hawks 123-115 Nuggets Jackson steps down as Yankees’ adviser “We are a very confi dent team that continues to grow.” Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson is leaders at the time. Of his post- Kyrie Irving scored 28 points with stepping down as a special ad- season homers, 12 came for eight assists while Joe Harris, DeAndre viser for the New York Yankees, the Yankees. He also hit five for Jordan and Bruce Brown scored 13 each he told the New York Post on the Oakland Athletics and one for the Nets. Brooklyn’s Kevin Durant Sunday. for the then-California Angels, missed his fourth straight game with an “I would say I’ve stepped back reaching the postseason in 11 injured hamstring. a little bit, taken my retirement, of his 21 seasons in the major The Nets also lost forward Jeff Green really,” Jackson said. “I just think leagues. with an apparent shoulder injury after it’s time.” Jackson was MVP of the 1973 a collision with Clippers guard Patrick Jackson, 74, has served in the World Series when Oakland Beverley with just under three minutes role since the late George Stein- defeated the New York Mets in left. Kawhi Leonard tallied 29 points and brenner named him to the post seven games. He was part of 13 rebounds, while Ivica Zubac fi nished in 1993. The Steinbrenner family three World Series champion- with 13 points and eight rebounds in the still owns the Yankees. ship teams with the Athletics loss. Paul George had 34 points and seven “I’ll never have anything bad (1972-74) and two with the rebounds but sat out the game’s crucial to say about George,” Jackson Yankees (1977-78). moments down the stretch because Los said. “It’s just time to step back. Jackson smashed 563 regular- Angeles wanted to limit his minutes in I want to be around the game, season homers in 21 seasons the game. Brooklyn Nets guard James Harden is defended by Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (right) as he drives to the basket and I want to contribute. I want with the Athletics (1967-75, “We had to bring him back to get the in the first-half of the NBA game at Staples Center. (USA TODAY Sports) to leave my knowledge. But it’s 1987), Baltimore Orioles (1976), game close,” said Clippers coach Tyronn just time to move on.” Yankees (1977-81) and Angels Lue. “The biggest thing is he is healthy.” had 17 points and 10 rebounds in the win. three-pointer to give the Pelicans a 115- point play to give the Pelicans a 108-106 Jackson, a 14-time All-Star, (1982-86). The homers rank 14th Elsewhere, Brandon Ingram scored 33 Jayson Tatum scored 32, Jaylen Brown 112 lead in the overtime. Walker missed lead with six seconds left. Tatum scored became known as “Mr. October” in major league history. points as the New Orleans Pelicans en- had 25, and Tristan Thompson and Kem- a three-pointer, and Hart hit two free on a short shot with 0.2 left to send the after hitting five homers in the Jackson won American League gineered their largest comeback in team ba Walker added 14 each to lead the Celt- throws for a fi ve-point lead with 18 sec- game into the extra session. 1977 World Series to help the MVP honors in 1973 when hit a history Sunday by overcoming a 24-point ics. After an exchange of baskets to start onds left as New Orleans closed it out. Also, Fred VanVleet scored 23 points Yankees defeat the Los Angeles league-high 32 homers. He tied defi cit to beat the Boston Celtics 120-115 the overtime scoring, Williamson made Lonzo Ball made one of two free throws and had nine assists as the Toronto Rap- Dodgers in six games. for the homer lead three other in overtime. Ingram hit the go-ahead one of two free throws. at the end of the fourth quarter to give the tors defeated the visiting Philadelphia Overall, he clubbed 18 posts- times (1975, 1980 and 1982). three pointer with 34 seconds remaining Brown made a layup to give Boston a Pelicans a one-point lead with 32 seconds 76ers 110-103 in Florida. Pascal Siakam eason homers, which matched He was inducted into the Hall of in the overtime. Zion Williamson had 28 112-111 lead with 72 seconds left. Ingram left in regulation. scored 23 points and had seven rebounds Mickey Mantle among all-time Fame in 1993. points and 10 rebounds, and Josh Hart tied it with a free throw and added a Williamson then executed a three- and eight assists for the Raptors.

NHL Pastrnak’s hat-trick helps Bruins defeat Flyers Reuters RESULTS season, but were full marks in this aff air, es- Stateline, Navada pecially with a dominating overtime per- Bruins 7-3 Flyers formance. Tkachuk, who was denied during Senators 3-2 Canadiens a breakaway earlier in the extra period, found avid Pastrnak scored three goals and the mark from the slot with 90 seconds re- Capitals 4-3 Devils Nick Ritchie added one goal and one maining in overtime to collect his sixth goal assist to lift the Boston Bruins past Jets 4-3 Canucks of the season. Montreal goalie Jake Allen, who the Philadelphia Flyers 7-3 Sunday came up with a couple of clutch saves late in inD the NHL Outdoors at Lake Tahoe in State- puck in front and scored at 14:48 of the fi rst. regulation, stopped 36 shots in what could be line, Nevada. Charlie McAvoy, Charlie Coyle McAvoy equalized at 2 just 39 seconds later seen as an unlucky loss. and Trent Frederic each contributed one goal when he fi red a slap shot through traffi c in Having dropped three of their previous for the Bruins, who have won all fi ve meetings front. Pastrnak’s second goal just 46 seconds four games, the Canadiens were in need of a against the Flyers this season. Three wins into the second extended Boston’s advantage hot start and received it when Nick Suzuki have come in regulation, one in overtime and to 3-2. The nasty wrist shot clanged under- opened the scoring just 77 seconds into the one in a shootout. Brad Marchand, Connor neath the crossbar and into the net. clash. An Ottawa turnover in the Montreal Clifton, John Moore and Craig Smith had two The Flyers had several solid scoring chanc- zone resulted in an odd-man rush that ended assists each. es but couldn’t capitalise and the Bruins soon with Suzuki receiving a cross-ice pass from Bruins goaltender Tuukka Rask made 16 went ahead 4-2 when Coyle scored at 16:14 of Josh Anderson and fi ring a shot off the far saves. James van Riemsdyk had one goal and the second. Frederic extended the lead to 5-2 post and in for his fourth goal of the season. two assists while Sean Couturier had one goal only 33 seconds later with his fi rst career goal. Drake Batherson replied just before the and one assist for the Flyers. Joel Farabee add- Ritchie’s power play goal at 17:43 pushed midway point of the opening frame to even ed one goal and Kevin Hayes contributed two the lead to 6-2. Philadelphia closed within the count. After racing down the wing, Bath- assists. Flyers goaltender Carter Hart allowed 6-3 when van Riemsdyk scored on the power erson cut to the front of the net and fell just six goals in two periods and was replaced by play at 12:45 of the third. Pastrnak registered as he attempted to shoot. The puck ended up Brian Elliott to open the third. Elliott stopped the hat trick at 17:04. It was his second hat bounding up and over Allen and into the net 11 of 12 shots. Hart made 17 saves. trick against the Flyers this season. with 10:13 left for Batherson’s fourth goal of Captain Claude Giroux, Jake Voracek, the season. Josh Norris gave the Senators the Travis Konecny, Oskar Lindblom and Scott TKACHUK SCORES WINNER AS lead with a fortunate bounce. Nikita Zaitsev Laughton were among the vital Flyers on the SENATORS NIP CANADIENS IN OT sent a point shot that Norris managed to de- COVID-19 list and out for this matchup. Brady Tkachuk scored the overtime winner fl ect, and when the puck hit Allen, it vaulted The Bruins jumped out to a 1-0 lead just 34 and the host Ottawa Senators claimed an over him and found the net for Norris’s fourth seconds into the fi rst period when Pastrnak exciting 3-2 victory over the Montreal Cana- goal of the season at 3:33 of the period. How- sent a wrist shot into a mostly open net. diens on Sunday. Matt Murray made 30 saves ever, Corey Perry equalled the count with Farabee’s eighth goal of the season, an im- for the Senators, who snapped a two-game 5:25 remaining in regulation. Perry, a healthy pressive feat as he scored while sliding on losing skid despite being without their best scratch the previous game, zipped past Otta- the ice, tied it at 1 at 6:41. Philadelphia went defenseman in Thomas Chabot. wa defender Erik Gudbranson, cut to the net David Pastrnak (left) of the Boston Bruins is pursued by Robert Hagg of the Philadelphia Flyers in the third ahead 2-1 when Couturier gathered a loose The Senators have struggled to win all and tucked the puck into the net. period during their NHL match at the Edgewood Tahoe Resort in Stateline, Nevada. (Getty Images/AFP) Gulf Times 6 Tuesday, February 23, 2021 TENNIS

SPOTLIGHT Djokovic’s ‘sublime 9’ a statement to chasing pack Arguments over which of Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal or Djokovic are the greatest men’s champion of all time might rage long after they hang up their rackets, but at Melbourne Park’s Rod Laver Arena the Serbian is in a class of his own

Reuters Parading his trophy on the beach in Sydney the Melbourne suburb of Brighton on Monday, Djokovic said a second scan of his abdomen had revealed he had made ovak Djokovic’s “unbeliev- the injury worse by playing on. able” performance to win his “I just came actually came from an- ninth Australian Open fi nal other MRI that I’ve done this morning was a statement to the young and the damage is bigger than what it Nguns looking to break the stranglehold was when it happened, when I did the of the “Big Three” on Grand Slam ti- fi rst MRI after the third round,” he told tles, according to seven-times major reporters. winner Mats Wilander. “It’s not too bad judging by what Arguments over which of Roger Fe- doctor said but I’ll have to take some derer, Rafa Nadal or Djokovic are the time off and heal. The tear is bigger.” greatest men’s champion of all time The injury was not the only issue might rage long after they hang up Djokovic had to contend with during their rackets, but at Melbourne Park’s his time in Australia. Rod Laver Arena the Serbian is in a The world number one riled some class of his own. locals when he submitted suggestions Djokovic on Sunday brushed aside to organisers over how quarantine con- a month of controversy and a painful ditions for players could be improved. muscle tear in his abdomen to thrash The ups and downs of what he de- Russian young gun Daniil Medvedev in scribed as a “rollercoaster” of a trip straight sets and extend his own record Down Under had made his 18th Grand for titles won on the famous blue car- Slam title triumph all the more satisfy- pet. ing. “Brilliant work on another Austral- “I refl ect on it as a great experience, ian title,” Rod Laver, the Australian af- and a unique journey, and I would defi - ter whom the stadium court is named, nitely remember and try to take out a said in message to Djokovic on Twitter. Serbia’s Novak Djokovic poses with the lot of positives from it,” he said. “Under so much pressure in such Norman Brookes Challenge Cup trophy “I have learned a lot of lessons, and diffi cult times. You continue to show during a photo shoot at the Brighton learned a lot of things, about myself the world what a great champion you Beach in Melbourne yesterday. and about everything that was going on are. There was no doubt in your mind in the last fi ve to six weeks, but I think tonight – Daniil felt the full force of that everything that was happening on your will. Sublime 9!” and off the court makes this victory Medvedev was the brightest of the even better and even sweeter.” younger talents looking to break into Djokovic said he had celebrated his the Grand Slam winners’ circle in Mel- triumph by calling his family back bourne this year and reached the fi nal home in Serbia and sitting down for a on the back of a 20-match winning meal capped off with a cake. streak that included victories over the “It was an unbelievable perform- es.” Former US Open champion Andy can posted on Twitter. “He’s routined Djokovic will, however need to spend “I used to go wild and go to disco- best players in the game. ance,” Swede Wilander told Eurosport. Roddick was not always a big fan of great, great players at the Aussie Open some time on the sidelines recovering theques and nightclubs and god knows The 25-year-old Russian was made “That’s a huge statement to (the Djokovic the man – once almost com- over the years. There is nowhere to at- from a muscle tear that hindered him what, and now it is a bit diff erent,” he to look plain ordinary by Djokovic in next generation), to us, to the whole ing to blows with him in the dressing tack him on the court. It’s like not be- in the later rounds of the Australian said. the fi nal, however, as the Serbian show- world. Novak is just so complete these room – but was left in awe of his per- ing able to hit a boxer, but that boxer Open, the Serbian said as he celebrated “A diff erent kind of celebration, cased his incredible mental strength days, he can hit those little drop shots, formance at Melbourne Park. also has knockout power in both hands. his ninth Melbourne Park title yester- more of a home a celebration with fam- and a bewildering array of shots. he can come to the net, he’s got choic- “Djoker is so good,” the Ameri- Props.” day. ily and close people.”

BOTTOMLINE FOCUS Barty uncertain Australian Open beats the of schedule as odds to lay out a blueprint Osaka closes in Reuters Melbourne Reuters Sydney ustralian Ash Bar- ty has provided no aomi Osaka and Novak Djok- certainty if she will ovic were rightly hailed as de- play regularly on the served Australian Open cham- women’sA tour amid the Cov- pions at the weekend but the id-19 pandemic despite Naomi Nashen-faced former tennis coach stand- Osaka closing in on her world ing behind them on the podium might be number one ranking with a considered the real hero of the year’s fi rst fourth Grand Slam title in Mel- Grand Slam. bourne. Tournament director Craig Tiley and Barty accepted a wildcard to his Tennis Australia team faced down defend her Adelaide Interna- sizeable odds to get the tournament up tional title this week after mak- and running, albeit by the skin of their ing an exit at the quarter-final teeth at times, while much of the world stage of her home Grand Slam was still dealing with the Covid-19 pan- with a defeat to Czech Karolina demic. Muchova. “At the beginning, I think there were The Queenslander skipped many people who doubted we could pull last year’s US Open and did not it off ,” South African Tiley told reporters defend her 2019 French Open in Melbourne yesterday. title, opting not to travel due to “We can look back on it now as a highly health concerns amid the pan- successful event in the circumstances. I demic. US Open and the Australian believe in the coming month, there will Barty, who is expected to Open on Saturday but still finds be a realisation of the extent of what we head to the Middle East next herself more than 1,300 points managed to achieve in pulling off what month to play WTA events in behind the Australian. we did.” Doha and Dubai, said she faced “There’s no extra pressure. In a project unique in the annals of no fitness issues during the The extra pressure is non-ex- sport, more than 1,000 players and sup- Melbourne Park swing despite istent for me,” Barty said about port staff were fl own to Australia on returning to the circuit after 11 Osaka’s ascent. charter fl ights from around the world months. “I can’t control what anyone and quarantined for 14 days from mid- “We plan as best as we can,” else does. For the tournaments January. the 24-year-old told reporters or with the rankings, that’s out Melbourne is the biggest city in the in Adelaide yesterday. “Obvi- of my control. As for defend- state of Victoria, which had endured one ously in the current situation ing points, I think that’s a very of the longest and strictest lockdowns in present in suffi cient numbers to create an fi ve hours a day but 72 were forced into ment, especially after the snap lockdown nothing’s certain. It’s difficult negative way to look at it.” the world to all but eradicate community atmosphere at the weekend’s fi nals. total lockdown after passengers on their robbed them of crowds in the middle to plan, without a doubt, but The rivalry between Barty transmission of Covid-19. Tiley believes that the Australian fl ights tested positive for Covid-19. weekend – usually the busiest of the we just go with the advice that and 23-year-old Osaka could be Perhaps Tiley’s greatest achievement Open has now set an example that oth- The stress of fulfi lling his masterplan fortnight. we have been given. the highlight feature of the tour was to convince a local government de- er sports events – including the Tokyo was clearly etched on Tiley’s face during Tiley said Tennis Australia’s cash re- “Of course I would love to for the next few years. termined to keep the virus out of the Olympics – can follow, but only if they the weekend’s trophy ceremonies and he serves of A$80mn ($62.96mn) had been be back on tour full-time, and “I’ve only played her a cou- state to let the players in, and to allow make a commitment to some form of revealed the toll it had taken on him in an exhausted and the governing body had all those decisions will come as ple times. We haven’t played a crowds to watch them. quarantine. interview with local media on Sunday. taken out a loan to get them through to close as we can to the events, lot,” Barty said, adding she had The tournament survived the infection “This was the fi rst time since the start In order to assuage athletes not used next year. but also as far out to try and not watched Saturday’s final of one of the quarantine hotel workers of the pandemic began that there was a to confi nement, Tiley had committed to Prize money may drop a little in 2022, plan a schedule and plan a tour.” between Osaka and American only fi ve days before it was due to start, sport and entertainment event that had spending hours on Zoom calls each day Tiley suggested, but there was no doubt Barty did not play for 11 Jennifer Brady. but only after everyone in the tennis co- crowds (and) had every top player bar a listening to their concerns. the Australian Open would be back. months but has still held on “So hopefully it’s an oppor- hort had been tested for the virus again. few that couldn’t make it,” he added. “I got abused on the calls. It was sig- “We started planning it a week ago... to her top spot as the women’s tunity for me to play against Crowds were present for just fi ve days “I think it is a blueprint that works, it nifi cant,” Tiley told Australian Associ- 2022 is going to be a magnifi cent year,” governing body adjusted the her in some big moments in big of action until Victoria went into a snap requires more resources and more time, ated Press (AAP). “Normally when you he said. WTA rankings due to the pan- tournaments. That’s what we lockdown in response to a small outbreak but that’s a commitment that you have to take heat, you take it once. This was 15 “If we’re still in a version of the pan- demic, allowing players the dream of... trying to put your- of the variant of the virus associated with make.” straight days. It’s like being attacked for demic, we’ll be well prepared for that. ability to skip tournaments self in position to win big titles. Britain. The 14 days of quarantine prompted 15 straight days, verbally.” Any single thing you could list that could without the fear of losing “So maybe it will happen one The fans returned in reduced numbers an outpouring of complaints from play- Tennis Australia also ran up a huge happen to an event, we had it these last points. In contrast, second- day but for the time being that’s from last Thursday, however, and were ers. Most were allowed out to train for fi nancial bill for putting on the tourna- two weeks.” ranked Osaka won last year’s not what I’m stressed about.” Gulf Times Tuesday, February 23, 2021 7 SPORT

GOLF FOCUS Fakhar and Hafeez guide Qalandars to Homa beats Finau nine-wicket PSL win listering unbeaten half- wicket, which went down as the centuries from Fakhar best second wicket stand for La- Zaman and Mohamed hore Qalandars in the history of Hafeez led Lahore Qa- PSL. Fakhar top-scored with an landarsB to their second straight unbeaten 52-ball 82, laced with in playoff to capture victory, an emphatic nine-wick- eight fours and two sixes. His et win over Quetta Gladiators in partner, Hafeez ended-up with the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 73 not out off 33, smashing vefi 6 at Karachi’s National Stadium fours and six gigantic sixes. yesterday. That had Chasing 179 to win, the Qa- an imposing total to surmount landars got off to a brisk start as was because of Chris Gayle, one openers , the La- of Quetta Gladiators’ platinum PGA title at Riviera hore Qalandars captain, and Fa- pick. khar made full use of the batting Gayle hit fi ve fours and as ‘I didn’t think it would feel like this... I’m hoping this is just kind of the beginning’ powerplay, scoring at eight runs many sixes in his sizzling knock per over to post 48 for no loss in of 68 off 40 balls, after Qalandars AFP six overs. Sohail was fi rst to go in elected to fi eld. Los Angeles, United States the ninth over as he misjudged Gayle, dropped twice on 20 a googly from Zahid Mahmood. and 31, brought up his maiden He scored 21 off 26 balls, hitting half-century in the competi- ometown hero Max three boundaries. Before depart- tion’s history off 32 balls. He Homa parred the sec- ing, the pair had knitted 64 runs. contributed a 101-run stand for ond playoff hole Sun- There was no stopping Fa- the third wicket with captain day to defeat Tony khar, as the left-handed batsman Sarfaraz Ahmed (40 off 33 balls). HFinau and capture the US PGA smoked bowlers all around the There was also a late onslaught Genesis Invitational after both ground. He brought up his half- from Mohamed Nawaz, who had botched short putts for the century in the 11th over of the in- smashed an unbeaten 33 off 20 title. nings off just 31 balls. His partner balls. Finau missed a par putt from Hafeez, coming to bat at number For Qalandars, , just inside 10 feet on the par-3 three, made full use of a reprieve playing his fi rst game in the 14th at Riviera Country Club in the 14th over, when Saim Ayub tournament, was the pick of the to give Homa his second career dropped him at deep mid-wick- bowlers with three for 38, while crown after the 2019 Wells Fargo et. The ‘Professor’ smacked a six Ahmed Daniyal, Rashid Khan Championship. and a four in the same over and and Shaheen Shah Afridi took a “I’ve been watching this tour- collected 19 runs off left-arm wicket each. (PSL) nament my whole life. It’s why fast . I fell in love with golf,” said an Hafeez stroked the ball with BRIEF SCORES: Quetta Gladia- emotional Homa, who grew up ease and recorded his fastest PSL tors 178-6 (Chris Gayle 68; Haris in nearby Burbank. fi fty as he reached the milestone Rauf 3-38) lost to Lahore “I didn’t think it would feel in 24 balls and hit the winning Qalandars 179-1 in 18.2 overs like this... I’m hoping this is just runs in the 19th over. ( 82 not out, kind of the beginning.” Hafeez and Fakhar contributed Mohamed Hafeez 73 not out) by The 30-year-old American unbeaten 115 runs for the second nine wickets fi red a bogey-free fi ve-under par 66 to fi nish 72 holes level with compatriot Finau, who shot 64, at 12-under 272 at the Tiger Woods-hosted event. Homa was among 23 play- ers who had to fi nish their third round Sunday morning after Max Homa (right) of the United States stands with the trophy and tournament host Tiger Woods after winning the The Genesis Invitational in high winds Saturday produced a playoff at Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, California, United States, on Sunday. (AFP) unplayable conditions for al- most four hours. In 25 total holes Sunday, he never made a bogey. Tiger in the Masters’ fi nal round? ‘I hope so,’ says Woods “I got it done. I’m very proud,” he said. “Playing like Tiger today.” Reuters CBS broadcast Sunday that he “A lot of it’s based on my pick up his fifth Masters win. Lahore Qalandars’ Mohamed Hafeez and Fakhar Zaman celebrate He also compared himself to New York, United States was waiting on the results of an surgeons and my doctors, my Speaking at the Genesis their win over Quetta Gladiators yesterday. (AFP) two other reigning Los Ange- upcoming MRI to see when he therapists and making sure I do Invitational in Pacific Palisades, les champions, the NBA’s Lak- might return to action. it correctly,” said Woods. “This California, Woods said he was ers and Major League Baseball’s ill Tiger Woods prowl Asked if fans could expect is the only back I got so I don’t focusing on plenty of putting Dodgers. into Augusta National him to reach the final round of know how much more wiggle drills as he works his way back Sri Lanka’s new bowling coach Vaas “City of Champions – Dodg- Wthis year? Even the the Masters this April, Woods room (I have) left there.” to form. “Still in the gym, still quits days aft er appointment ers, Lakers and me now,” he said. 15-time major winner can’t say replied: “God, I hope so.” Two years ago Woods capped doing the mundane stuff that “It’s a weird feeling.” for sure. The 45-year-old Ameri- “I’ve got to get there first,” said one of the most remarkable you have to do for rehab, the AFP the administration’s refusal World number 15 Finau and can said last month that he Woods, who is just one win shy comeback stories in all of pro- little things, before I can start Colombo, Sri Lanka to accede to an “unjustifiable 91st-ranked Homa both over- had undergone a recent back of clinching a PGA Tour record fessional sport when he ended gravitating toward something a demand for an increased USD took 54-hole leader Sam Burns surgery – his fifth – and told a 83 victories. an 11-year major drought to little more,” Woods said. remuneration”. down the stretch in the fi nal ri Lanka’s new fast bowl- Vaas could not be immedi- round, then each squandered a ing coach quit yesterday ately contacted, but he said chance at victory. Finau’s par bid rolled right of to take a lot of positives from it. Norway’s Viktor Hovland and (ENG) 66-71-69-71 Swithin days of his ap- on Twitter that his unspecified Homa dropped a wedge shot the cup and he had to settle for “It’s bittersweet right now. England’s Matthew Fitzpatrick 278 — Francesco Molinari (ITA) pointment and compounding request to Sri Lanka Cricket at the 72nd hole only three feet a third consecutive runner-up My game is in a great place. I sharing fi fth on 277. 68-73-70-67, Wyndham Clark problems for the national (SLC) had been turned down. from the cup, but his birdie putt fi nish after the Saudi Interna- know how well I’m playing.” Top-ranked Dustin Johnson, (USA) 67-69-73-69, Matt Jones team on the eve of their virus- “I made a humble request to to win lipped out off the left edge tional two weeks ago and Torrey Burns made bogeys at 12, 14 the reigning Masters champion, (AUS) 67-72-69-70, Dustin John- hit tour of the West Indies. SLC and they turned it down,” of the cup, setting up the playoff Pines three weeks ago. and 15 – the week’s hardest- fi red a 72 to share eighth on 278. son (USA) 68-67-71-72 Former Test player Chaminda Vaas tweeted. “That’s all I can with Finau. “I’m disappointed,” Finau playing holes – and couldn’t American Scott Harrington’s 279 — Patrick Rodgers (USA) Vaas, who on Friday replaced say at the moment. Justice will The playoff began on the par- said. “I didn’t execute the shot I hole a 43-foot chip shot at 18 to aced the par-3 sixth with a 71-69-70-69, Alex Noren (SWE) Australian David Saker, re- prevail!” 4 10th, where Homa’s tee shot was trying to hit on the last hole make the playoff , settling for a 6-iron. 67-70-71-71, Talor Gooch (USA) signed over a pay dispute and The sudden exit of Vaas, 47, landed next to a tree. He found and had it bite me in the butt.” career-best third on 273 after a 68-71-69-71 will not travel with the team came as fast bowler Lahiru the green in two but missed a closing 69. LEADING FINAL ROUND 280 — Will Zalatoris (USA) 69-69- to the Caribbean, the cricket Kumara tested positive for curling 10-footer, leaving Finau ‘BITTERSWEET’ FOR FINAU World number 149 Burns SCORES (x-won playoff with 75-67, Xander Schauff ele (USA) board said. coronavirus yesterday and a three-foot birdie putt for the Finau yearns for victory. He has missed out on his fi rst PGA vic- par on second extra hole) 71-69-71-69, James Hahn (USA) Sri Lanka Cricket said it was dropped out of the team. trophy, which he missed to ex- made 127 starts since his only tory and a chance to become the 272 — Tony Finau (USA) 71-67-70- 74-66-71-69, Jordan Spieth (USA) “disheartening” that Vaas had The tour was due to start on tend matters. PGA triumph at the 2016 Puerto event’s fi rst wire-to-wire win- 64, x-Max Homa (USA) 66-70- 68-68-73-71, Patrick Cantlay made the “sudden and irre- Saturday, but postponed after The duel moved to 14, Rico Open. Finau has 21 top-fi ve ner since Charlie Siff ord in 1969. 70-66 (USA) 67-70-71-72 sponsible move on the eve of top order batsman Lahiru where Finau hit into the US PGA fi nishes since the start The last tour player to lead for 273 — Sam Burns (USA) 64-66- 281 — Rickie Fowler (USA) 70-71- the team’s departure based on Thirimanne and head coach bunker and Homa left him- of the 2016-17 season, the most three rounds and not win was 74-69 73-67, Matthew NeSmith (USA) personal monetary gain”. Mickey Arthur were infected self 10 feet for birdie. Finau of any player without a victory South Korea’s Kim Si-woo at the 275 — Cameron Smith (AUS) 70-70-73-68, Nick Taylor (CAN) SLC said Vaas had resorted to with Covid-19 earlier this month. blasted out just inside Ho- in that span. 2019 Texas Open. 69-68-71-67 72-69-71-69, Scottie Scheff ler “holding the administration, However, the duo have re- ma’s ball and got a read off “I was able to make some key Australia’s Cameron Smith 277 — Jon Rahm (ESP) 70-69- (USA) 67-74-74-66, Branden the cricketers and the game covered and will join the tour, Homa’s curling miss. putts and stay in it,” Finau said of was fourth on 275 with second- 72-66, Viktor Hovland (NOR) Grace (RSA) 71-69-70-71, CT Pan at ransom” by resigning citing according to the board. After Homa tapped in for par, his day. “I fell short but I was able ranked Spaniard Jon Rahm, 71-69-70-67, Matthew Fitzpatrick (TPE) 71-70-72-68

CRICKET Conway fi res unbeaten 99 as NZ beat Australia in fi rst T20 AFP Australian bowlers, taking two for 31. Aaron Finch and Glenn Maxwell also Christchurch, New Zealand But the tourists could not dislodge failed to deal with the swinging ball and Conway, whose 59-ball knock included the tourists were soon four for 19. 10 fours and three sixes, helping the Mitch Marsh top-scored with 45 and Devon Conway batting mas- Black Caps bounce back from 19 for Ashton Agar contributed 23 a string terclass inspired New Zealand three. of batting failures gave New Zealand a to a 53-run win over Australia Conway said he was “pretty chuff ed” comfortable win. in the opening Twenty20 in- with his career-best eff ort, even though While trans-Tasman bragging rights ternationalA in Christchurch yesterday. he was stranded just short of a century are up for grabs, both teams also en- Conway smashed an unbeaten 99 off after failing to take two runs off the final ter the series with one eye on the T20 59 balls as the Black Caps overcame a ball. World Cup in India later this year. shaky start to fi nish on 184 for fi ve after The South African-born batsman Established Australian stars such as losing the toss and being put in to bat. came to the crease with New Zealand Steve Smith, David Warner and Mitch- In reply, the tourists were all out for teetering at 11 for two and was still set- ell Starc are being rested as selectors 131 after 17.3 overs, with Black Caps tling in when captain Kane Williamson look to unearth new talent. spinner Ish Sodhi taking four wickets departed for 12. New Zealand have a more set- for 28 to give the hosts an early edge in “The key was to try to stay positive, tled line-up, though veteran opening the fi ve-match series. that’s when I’m at my best,” Conway batsman Martin Guptill will be under Australia captain Aaron Finch re- said. pressure after his poor run of form fused to blame the loss on his team’s “I was trying not to think too far continued with a duck in the opening two-week Covid-19 quarantine upon ahead and just build good partner- over. arrival in New Zealand. ships.” The Black Caps may turn to un- “It feels like a long time since we The frustrated Australians then suf- capped Finn Allen for the next match in played but we were treated brilliantly fered a horror show early in their in- Dunedin on Thursday. (in quarantine),” he said. nings, as seamers Tim Southee and “They just ran harder and we didn’t Trent Boult tore through the top order. BRIEF SCORES: New Zealand 184 get it right.” Luckless debutant Josh Philippe de- for 5 (Devon Conway 99 not out; Jhye Jhye Richardson, fresh from signing parted for two after sending a top-edge Richardson 2-31) beat Australia 131 all a multi-million dollar Indian Premier skyward. out (Mitchell Marsh 45; Ish Sodhi 4-28, League contract, was the pick of the But old campaigners such as skipper Southee 2-10, Boult 2-22) by 53 runs New Zealand’s Devon Conway bats during the first Twenty20 against Australia in Christchurch yesterday. (AFP)

Tuesday, February 23, 2021 GULF TIMES SPORT

FOCUS Cherif-Tijan lead Qatar’s challenge in Doha Beach Volleyball By Sports Reporter host a 4-star men’s and wom- Beach Volleyball Cup are Jackson Doha en’s event – Katara Cup – from Henriquez and Jesus Villafañe of March 8-12. Venezuela, who competed in one After yesterday’s qualifi ers, World Tour event together since atar’s Cherif You- the 16-team main draw will be- their last full season on the inter- nousse Samba and gin with pool play today. The top national circuit in 2016. Ahmed Tijan are lead- three fi nishers in each of the four Henriquez and Villafane will ing the 25 teams from groups will advance to the elimi- start play in the qualifi er today 14Q countries at the Doha Beach nation bracket where two rounds as all fi ve FIVB confederations Volleyball Cup, which is all set will be played on Thursday. Fri- are scheduled to have teams to begin at the Al Gharrafa Beach day’s schedule features the semi- competing in the event - Asia Complex today with the main fi nal and medal matches. (Lebanon, Oman, Qatar), Africa draw matches. Six other teams in the Doha (Gambia, Egypt, Morocco), Eu- Apart from Younousse-Tijan, Beach Volleyball Cup fi eld have rope (Poland, Russia, Switzer- the 13th ranked team on the FIVB FIVB medals to their credit, in- land), NORCECA (Canada and World Tour with three World Tour cluding Anton Kislytsyn-Daniil the United States) and South medals to their credit, the hosts Kuvichka and Alexey Gusev- America (Venezuela). have entered six more teams into Pavel Shustrov of Russia, Yves The last World Tour event was the 1-star men’s-only tournament. Haussener-Quentin Metral of played this past September in Eleven of the teams in the Doha Switzerland, Murat Giginog- Lithuania where teams from Es- Beach Volleyball Cup are ranked on lu-Volkan Gogtepe and Selcuk tonia (Kusti Nolvak Mart Tiisaar) the FIVB World Tour list. Sekerci-Sefa Urlu of Turkey, and and Italy (Margherita Bianchin/ The event is the fi rst scheduled Travis Mewhirter-Adam Roberts Claudia Scampoli) topped the event on the 2021 FIVB World of the United States. men’s and women’s podiums, re- Qatar’s Cherif Younousse Samba. Tour calendar. Qatar will also Also competing in the Doha spectively. Balls are sanitised during practice yesterday.

CRICKET SPOTLIGHT India’s Umesh Yadav passes fi tness test, Winning WTC would added for last 2 Tests

IANS “Shardul Thakur has been Ahmedabad, India released from the squad to take part in the Vijay Hazare Trophy,” it said. be like World Cup ast bowler Umesh Ya- The four-match Test series is dav has passed a fi tness levelled 1-1. test and has been include in the Indian team for the Squad for last two Tests: Virat Flast two Tests against England, Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, the Indian cricket board said in a Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, statement yesterday. Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya “Team India fast bowler Rahane (vice-captain), KL Rahul, triumph for Ishant Umesh Yadav appeared for a fi t- Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant ness test on Sunday, 21st Febru- (wicketkeeper), Wriddhiman ‘I am only thinking about how we can win the next Test. And then the next’ ary at Motera. He has cleared his Saha (wicketkeeper), R Ashwin, fi tness test and has been added to Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Wash- Agencies the squad for the last two Tests of ington Sundar, Ishant Sharma, Mumbai, India the ongoing India-England Test Jasprit Bumrah, Mohamed Siraj, series,” said the statement. Umesh Yadav

elping India to win the inaugural World Test Championship (WTC) would be as momen- Htous as a World Cup victory for fast bowler Ishant Sharma, who is set to play his 100th Test against England from tomorrow. In a career spanning 14 years, the 32-year-old from Delhi has taken over 300 wickets in the longest format of the game but the last time he played white- ball cricket for India was over fi ve years ago. Only Kapil Dev, with 131 matches, has played more Tests than Ishant for India as a fast bowler. “There’s a lot of time for 131,” Ishant told reporters yesterday. “Right now I am only thinking England batsmen must adapt to about how we can win the next changing conditions, pink ball: Thorpe Test. And then the next so that we can qualify for the fi nal of England’s batsmen must react one has been in the evening World Test Championship. and adapt to the challenges and one has been in the after- “I only play one format, so the posed by the pink ball when noon. The challenge of facing WTC is like a World Cup for me. If they face hosts India in the the pink ball, the changing we reach the fi nal and then go on third Test at Ahmedabad start- conditions... we’ll have to react to win it, it will be the same feeling ing on Wednesday, assistant well and adapt well,” Thorpe as winning the ICC World Cup.” coach Graham Thorpe said told reporters. The ICC launched the WTC Ishant Sharma claimed two wickets in his 99th Test, the second Test between India and England. (BCCI) yesterday. “It’s a slightly unknown quan- last year to lend context to bilat- The four-Test series is tied at 1-1 tity but often the pink ball does eral Test series, giving Test crick- “I’d have loved to go to Aus- England’s James Anderson also play his 100th game with the I make the team win, how can I with England needing to win the a little more in the evenings et its standalone showpiece like tralia and complete my 100 plays only Tests and is still leading same intent. become an impactful player? remaining matches to qualify for than it does in the afternoon the World Cup in other formats. Tests there but there are things their attack at the age of 38. “Hundred is just a number for “How can I pull out the team this year’s World Test Champion- for the seam bowlers but we’ll New Zealand have booked that are not in your control,” “Thirty-eight is diffi cult to me,” Sharma said. from tough situations, that is ship final and the chance to meet also take a look at the pitch their spot in this year’s fi nal at said Ishant, who was injured say as of now,” Ishant said. “I “It’s like how I played my 99th the only motivation. If there is New Zealand. regarding the spinners during Lord’s and India can join them ahead of the trip Down Under just go one Test at a time. I un- match, with the same feeling, a partnership, how to break it, But Thorpe said the immedi- the daytime.” with a win and a draw against before the mandatory 14-day derstand my body, what kind of same intensity and same aggres- that is only my focus.” ate task facing his team was to Thorpe said he expected the England in their ongoing four- coronavirus isolation regula- training I need to do. I am look- siveness, I will go into my 100th Sharma reached 300 Test tackle the changing conditions seamers to have more of an Test series which is currently tions ruled him out. ing after myself.” match. And I will continue until wickets in his team’s opening in the day-night Test and the impact in the match. level at 1-1. “The sooner you forget things Last week in Chennai, he I see the intent and aggressive- loss to enter India’s exclusive swinging pink ball under lights “I would imagine that the ball Ishant has learned not to and move on in life, the better it claimed two wickets in his 99th ness in my bowling.” 300-wicket club, which in- at the Motera Stadium. generally does swing more un- worry about things he cannot is for you. This is the biggest les- Test with India thrashing Eng- He added, “I don’t play for cludes pace greats Dev (434) and “Both our practice sessions... der the lights,” Thorpe added. control. son I have learned,” he added. land by 317 runs, and says he will numbers, I play to win. How can Zaheer Khan (311).

BOTTOMLINE England’s WTC hopes hang by hair as pink-ball Test against India awaits

Reuters ing to win at least one Test and avoid Local authorities have allowed 50 February as well so we don’t know how Mumbai, India defeat in the other. percent capacity for the day-night it is going to behave,” the 38-year-old Australia’s cancelled trip to South match – only the second in India after told reporters. Africa means that Tim Paine’s side are the one against neighbouring Bangla- “The bowlers who get the ball in ngland must register their fi rst dependent on India and England and desh at Eden Garden in Kolkata in 2019. their hand come the Test match will be win in a pink-ball Test abroad would need a drawn series or a 2-1 win India won that match in a little over hopeful of it doing something and we’ll if they are to keep their hopes in favour of the touring side to set up two days but suff ered a defeat in their be hopeful that that gives us a little bit alive of qualifying for this a WTC fi nal clash against their trans- next one against Australia in Adelaide, of an edge. year’sE World Test Championship fi nal Tasman rivals. where they also suff ered the ignominy “Obviously, I’ll be keeping my fi n- when they face-off against India at the England have slightly more experi- of posting their lowest ever Test in- gers crossed if I do play and we bowl world’s largest cricket stadium from ence of playing day-night Tests than nings of 36. fi rst, I’ll be hoping it does a little bit.” tomorrow. their hosts but do not have an exem- Players from both sides said last England are expected to welcome New Zealand have already booked plary record outside their home com- week that the sample size of day-night back Anderson after resting him during their spot for the inaugural WTC fi nal forts. Test matches was too small to arrive at the defeat in the second Test in Chen- to be held at Lord’s later this year, leav- They beat West Indies at Birming- any conclusion on the behaviour of the nai as part of their much-debated ro- ing India, England and Australia vying ham but lost in Adelaide and Auckland pink ball. tation policy while fi t-again speedster for the other. and the Feb. 24-28 Test under fl ood- Seamer James Anderson, England’s Jofra Archer will also be available for The four-Test series between India lights at Ahmedabad’s Motera Stadium most prolifi c bowler, said he felt the selection. and England is currently tied at 1-1 at will be their fourth outing. pink ball swung a bit more in the air The hosts will also receive a boost the halfway stage and Joe Root’s men The refurbished stadium, with a during practice than the traditional red with the return of rested pace spear- will need to win the remaining matches capacity of 110,000, has displaced one. head Jasprit Bumrah while senior fast to qualify. the Melbourne Cricket Ground as the “We’ve got a little bit of experience bowler Ishant Sharma is expected to The task appears a tad simpler for world’s largest for cricket and will be with the pink ball but this is just the play his 100th Test match during the The refurbished Motera stadium near Ahmedabad, with a capacity of 110,000, is now Virat Kohli’s side, with the hosts need- the venue for the remaining Tests. second Test in India, the fi rst one in day-night aff air. the world’s largest venue for cricket. (IANS)