FFOOTBALLOOTBALL | Page 2 CCRICKETRICKET | Page 5 Klopp delivers Giles vows Zoom surprise England training to Liverpool fans will be safer than in isolation shopping

Friday, May 15, 2020 FORMULA 1 Ramadan 22, 1441 AH Sainz to succeed Vettel GULF TIMES at Ferrari as Ricciardo heads to McLaren SPORT Page 6

FOCUS IOC creates $800mn fund to address coronavirus crisis AFP quences of this Covid-19 crisis”. demic, which has killed almost The postponement aff ects obligations to Tokyo, it would Games could be moved to anoth- Lausanne, Switzerland “We anticipate that we will 300,000 people worldwide, had every aspect of the organisation probably have to make cuts. er country depending on how the have to bear costs of up to had “a very severe fi nancial ef- — the Olympic Athletes’ Village, “This situation requires com- Covid-19 outbreak plays out. $800mn for our part, our re- fect on the world, on society, on hotels, ticketing, venues and promises, requires sacrifi ces by “We are now working with full he International Olympic sponsibilities for the organisa- government and of course also on transport, being among the ma- everybody. Therefore the IOC engagement on the success of Committee said yester- tion of the Games,” the German the Olympic Games, the entire jor headaches. and the organising committee are Tokyo 2020 starting on July 23, day it had created a fund said. Olympic movement and in par- in close contact with this joint 2021... To have the Games in a safe T NO SPECULATION of $800mn to tackle the The envelope has two parts: ticular the IOC”. taskforce and we are leaving no environment for all participants in fi nancial hardships created by the $650mn (602mn euros) which “We have been discussing this According to the latest budg- stone unturned in this respect to Tokyo next year,” Bach said. coronavirus pandemic which has “refers to the costs for the organ- fi nancial eff ect, this fi nancial et, the Games were due to cost reduce the costs while maintain- “We are one year and two forced the postponement of this isation” of the postponed Games impact today. You can imagine The IOC, which has approxi- $12.6bn, shared between the or- ing the spirit of the Games and months away from these post- year’s Tokyo Olympics until 2021. for the IOC; and up to $150mn as it’s not easy because planning in mately $1bn (926mn euros) in re- ganising committee, the govern- the quality, of course, of sports poned Olympic Games. We IOC president Thomas Bach, an aid package for the Olympic these days is so diffi cult because serves, in March took the historic ment of Japan and Tokyo city. competition and the athletes in should not perhaps fuel any speaking by teleconference after movement, in particular inter- of all the uncertainties you have. decision to postpone the Games, Bach had warned last month particular. speculation on any future devel- a virtual executive board meet- national federations, national “Nobody knows how the world scheduled to open on July 24, that the postponement would “Everything is being discussed opments now.” ing, said the body had released Olympic committees and IOC- looks like tomorrow,” Bach said. until July 23 to August 8, 2021. cost the IOC “several hundred and everything is on the table.” The IOC also agreed to hold “an envelope of up to $800mn recognised entities. “It’s a very incremental planning It was the fi rst peacetime post- mn dollars”, adding that while the But Bach was quick to scotch their next executive board meet- to address the fi nancial conse- Bach said the coronavirus pan- procedure.” ponement of the Games. body would honour its fi nancial rumours that the postponed ing, virtually, on July 17.

FOOTBALL / BUNDESLIGA SPOTLIGHT Qatar Dortmund braced for ‘most Rugby Federation joins unusual derby in history’ World

‘There will be no real advantages and SPOTLIGHT Rugby as disadvantages to playing home or away...’ Bundesliga to use fi ve subs, Associate relegation confi rmed Member QNA Reuters ing a general assembly. the players aff ected were iso- Doha Berlin, Germany The Bundesliga will be the lated. Under German law, the fi rst major European league to fi nal decision in such cases lies resume when it gets going fol- with local health authorities. atar Rugby Federa- undesliga teams will lowing a two-month break due Soccer’s rule-making body tion has joined World be allowed up to fi ve to the Covid-19 pandemic. The IFAB ruled earlier this month QRugby as Associate Bsubstitutions per second tier 2. that teams could make fi ve sub- Member. This came match when it restarts Bundesliga will also get un- stitutions instead of the usual after the approval of the World tomorrow after the coronavi- der way. All matches will be three as a temporary measure Rugby headed by its Chairman rus stoppage, while teams will played behind closed doors, but said the fi nal decision lay Bill Beaumont and Vice Chair- be relegated provided the sea- and progress will be closely with competition organisers. man Bernard Laporte. son is completed, the German watched around Europe. The DFL became the fi rst The World Rugby unani- Football League (DFL) said Doubts have already sur- major league to implement mously approved the Qatari yesterday. faced after second tier Dynamo the change which is designed Federation’s application, which Short-term venue changes Dresden’s entire squad were to help teams cope with fi x- was submitted a while ago to will also be permitted if health quarantined by the local health ture congestion as they rush to obtain its membership after it reasons dictate such a need authority following two posi- complete the season. had fulfi lled all the requirements and the season will continue tive tests, forcing their fi rst two The DFL said that all but one and conditions set by the World beyond its re-scheduled fi nish games to be postponed. of its 36 member clubs voted in Rugby. date of June 30 and into July if However, when three players favour of maintaining relega- The members of the inter- necessary, the DFL said follow- at Cologne tested positive, only tion. national federation reviewed the Qatari fi le and listened to Who will be inside stadiums when action returns the Qatari federation’s message about the popularity of the game maximum of 300 people outside the arena. The police he press room and mixed in Qatar and the presence of A will be permitted at the have jurisdiction in the public Tzone will be closed and Rugby as an offi cial sport in the stadium at any given time. space outside this zone. news conferences will be done state since 40 years, along with A picture taken yesterday shows love locks on a fence in front of the Signal Iduna Park stadium of Borussia virtually. the organisation of men’s and Dortmund in Dortmund, Germany. (AFP) Stadiums will be divided Staff required for match and women’s competitions for the into three zones — interior, stadium operations are lim- Two anti-doping rooms must two categories “Rugby 15, Rugby AFP in the stadium,” Kehl added. no-go. stands and exterior — with a ited to the absolute minimum. be set up to ensure players 7”, in addition to hosting many Berlin, Germany Dortmund are looking to close “A lot of things will start from maximum of around 100 people from both teams keep their continental championships and the four-point gap behind lead- scratch on Saturday,” Dortmund allowed in each zone at a time. ach club must appoint a distance. friendly matches, and the avail- ers Bayern Munich, who visit winger Julian Brandt told Sky. — Zone 1: The interior zone Emedically trained hygiene ability of stadiums to hold com- orussia Dortmund’s Union Berlin on Sunday. “There will be no real advan- includes the pitch, tunnel off icer to enforce rules. veryone except for ac- petitions in light of the advanced young stars Erling Braut However, Dortmund’s iconic tages and disadvantages to play- and dressing rooms and will Etive players and on-pitch facilities in Qatar. BHaaland and Jadon south stand, dubbed “The Yel- ing home or away. allow only players, substitutes, Only four ball boys, aged at referees must wear face masks. Qatar Rugby Federation Presi- Sancho will be hunt- low Wall” and normally packed “In the end, it depends on coaching staff, referees, ball least 16, will be present on This includes coaches and dent Yousef Jaham al-Kuwari ing more goals tomorrow in “the with 25,000 passionate fans will who best accepts this situation boys, medics, security, hy- the pitch during the match and substitutes if they are not sepa- said: “On behalf of the Qatar most unusual derby in history” — like the rest of the stadium — and can best deal with it.” giene staff and certain media they must regularly disinfect rated by a suff icient distance Rugby Federation and all rugby against Schalke as the Ger- stand empty. The pressure is on Haaland, personnel. their hands. Match balls will on the benches. players and fans in the country, man Bundesliga returns behind “The players will miss the 19, and Sancho, 20, to continue — Zone 2: The stands will be also be disinfected before and we are pleased and honoured to locked doors. chance for extra motivation by their goal-rich partnership, de- empty but the zone also in- during the game. o catering staff will be become an associate member of Dortmund usually expect the fans and the atmosphere,” spite the empty terraces, and cludes the media box, camera- Nallowed in the stadium World Rugby. With 40 years of 82,000 spectators at Signal admitted Kehl. steer injury-depleted Dortmund men and those working in the ascots and children will and each team’s meals should rugby in Qatar, this recognition Iduna Park for a home derby, but While league action in Eng- to victory. control room. Mnot be allowed and there be prepared and packaged by will support the game’s growth the stadium will be near-empty land, Spain and Italy is still at Midfi eld enforcers Emre Can — Zone 3: The exterior zone will be no pre-match hand- the team chefs in advance and in our country and hopefully with only a handful of media and least a month away, the German and Axel Witsel are out with includes the stadium property shakes or team photos. brought into the stadium. improve our competitiveness on offi cials admitted. Football League (DFL) has drawn muscle strains, while playmaker the international stage.” Even national team coach up detailed hygiene guidelines to Marco Reus is recovering from a World Rugby Chairman Bill Joachim Loew will not be allowed restart. groin problem. is aiming to move closer to his points following draws against erborn Beaumont praised the great in to watch his Germany players The Bundesliga is set to be- Haaland was in stunning form goal target for the season against Leverkusen and Wolfsburg be- „Augsburg v VfL Wolfsburg development of rugby in Qatar live on their return to action. come the fi rst top European when the league was suspended Freiburg tomorrow. fore matches were halted due to „Eintracht Frankfurt v Borus- and said: “As part of our con- “It will be the most unusual league to return during the pan- in mid-March with nine goals “Not many players my age the virus outbreak. sia M’gladbach tinuing commitment to grow derby in history,” former Dort- demic, which has so far claimed in eight Bundesliga appearances have scored 20 goals in a season Sunday and diversify the global game mund captain Sebastian Kehl around 7,700 lives in Germany. since joining from Salzburg. once and I’ve done it twice,” said FIXTURES „Cologne v Mainz we are delighted to welcome told German daily Welt. At games around the country, Sancho also terrorised de- the 24-year-old Werner who has Tomorrow „FC Union Berlin v Bayern Qatar, Jordan and Turkey as Normally, a home derby substitutes will wear masks, goal fences with 14 goals and 16 as- netted 21 times this term. “I’d „Borussia Dortmund v Schalke Munich associate members of World against Schalke comes alive celebrations will be replaced by sists in 23 league games. like to score 30 in a season.” „RB Leipzig v Freiburg Monday Rugby, three unions who have “through the fans, from their elbow taps while handshakes At third-placed RB Leipzig, Julian Nagelsmann’s Leip- „Hoff enheim v Hertha Berlin „Werder Bremen v Bayer an exciting rugby appetite and emotions, from the enthusiasm and hugs before kick-off are a Germany striker Timo Werner zig trail leaders Bayern by fi ve „Fortuna Dusseldorf v Pad- Leverkusen potential. Gulf Times 2 Friday, May 15, 2020 FOOTBALL

TOP OF THE LINE England midfi elder Alli robbed at knifepoint at home: Klopp delivers surprise to Liverpool fans in isolation reports

Reuters unteer with the LFC Foundation fi eld for the Merseyside derby in “You have a wonderful family Tottenham Hotspur and England midfielder Dele Bengaluru, India studying performance analysis, December 2018 and marvelled at around you, and I really, really hope Alli was robbed at knifepoint at his North London and reminiscing on his early days the atmosphere in the stadium fol- to see you soon,” Klopp added. home in the early hours of Wednesday and the as a coach. lowing Divock Origi’s stoppage- Noah Smallwood, a young boy assailants got away with hundreds of thousands of iverpool manager Jurgen “When I started, I had to do time winner. suff ering from Perthes disease, a pounds worth of valuables, British media reported. Klopp brought smiles to all the analysis myself so I know “You ended up celebrating three condition that aff ects the hip, was Alli, 24, and his adopted brother Harry Hickford Lthe faces of three support- it’s quite intense! In the end you or four rows below and I ended up the third fan to be surprised by were reportedly hurt in the incident after two men ers currently in isolation give it to a head coach and he says in (goalkeeper) Alisson’s arms. We Klopp. wielding knives broke into the player’s home in amid the Covid-19 pandemic by ‘yeah interesting’ and puts it away,” were in slightly diff erent places but Noah was scheduled to have an Barnet and threatened them. “Two males gained dropping in on their Zoom calls. Klopp told Duff y, who is self isolat- we felt exactly the same,” Klopp operation at Alder Hey, which the entry to the property and stole items of jewellery, Liverpool in March launched an ing at Liverpool John Moores Uni- said. Liverpool manager labelled the including watches, before fleeing,” the Metropoli- initiative aimed at helping people versity. “That’s what football is all about. best hospital in the world. tan Police said in a statement. “Two male occu- stay connected during the outbreak “You look in good spirits still, That we can share these moments “We know a lot of people there. pants at the property suff ered minor facial injuries and German Klopp was more than that’s important. That’s how the and never forget them.” You are in the best hands there. I’ll after being assaulted. They did not require hospital happy to play his part. boys are, that’s how I am, and so we brain surgery on his birthday last Klopp invited Smyth, who is due invite you to Kirby, our new train- treatment. No arrests; enquiries into the circum- Liverpool released a video on will go again and we will be back.” January and is currently isolating to have lung surgery, to Anfi eld to ing ground and we’ll pass a few stances continue.” Alli and Hickford’s girlfriends as Tuesday showing Klopp fi rst Klopp also caught up with Dar- due to a cancer diagnosis. share a beer in his ‘food room’ and balls and meet the boys,” Klopp well as a friend were also in the house when the checking in on Brett Duff y, a vol- ren Smyth, who had undergone Smyth told Klopp he was at An- asked him to stay strong. said. incident occurred, the reports said, adding that the occupants were playing cards when the robbers broke in. FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Kane sponsors Leyton Orient Italian shirts with charity messages England captain Harry Kane said yesterday that he will sponsor the shirts of former club Leyton Ori- Olympic chief ent for next season by thanking frontline workers Salzburg’s Marsch for their eff orts during the coronavirus crisis and promoting two other charities. Tottenham Hotspur ‘99 percent’ striker Kane scored his first professional goal dur- ing a loan spell with Orient in 2011. The League Two club’s home shirt will be emblazoned with ‘Thank sure of Serie A You Frontline Heroes’, while the away and third looks forward to kits will carry the logos of Haven House children’s hospice and mental health charity Mind. “Very restart in June proud to announce that I’m supporting the club that gave me my first pro start and three amazing AFP causes by sponsoring @leytonorientfc’s shirts for Rome, Italy the 2020/21 season,” Kane said on Twitter. Orient hailed Kane’s generosity at a troubled time for football returning lower league clubs. “During these troubling times he president of the Italian Olympic Harry wanted to support the club that gave him his Committee (CONI) said yesterday first professional start and not only has he been so ‘If you were here and saw how people follow the rules, how they Tthat he is “99 percent” sure that generous to the club, but he has also donated the the Serie A season will restart next shirt sponsorship to the following three causes,” respect each other’s space, it would give you a lot of confidence’ month following its coronavirus-enforced Orient said in a statement. suspension. AFP currently three points behind. “From one to 100, what do I think the First coronavirus cases Paris, France “Right now there is a lot of optimism and chances are Serie A starts on June 13? I’d excitement,” admits Marsch. say 99 percent,” Giovanni Malago told reported in Bulgarian league public broadcaster RAI. aving become the fi rst American HAALAND: ‘A FREAK’ “Everything is ready for a restart, to put Two players from Bulgaria’s top division have been to coach a team in the Champions Salzburg have found the going tougher since the system in a position to begin again. quarantined with suspected coronavirus infections, HLeague and overseen the remark- losing Haaland and Japan’s Takumi Mi- However if you asked me what the chances their clubs said yesterday. Etar Veliko Tarnovo able rise of Erling Braut Haaland, namino to Borussia Dortmund and Liver- are of the season fi nishing once it’s begun, midfielder Krasimir Stanoev has been placed under it was already an unforgettable season for pool respectively. I’d need a crystal ball.” quarantine after testing positive for Covid-19, a club Jesse Marsch before the coronavirus pan- Both were outstanding in Salzburg’s On Wednesday Serie A clubs announced off icial, who did not want to be named, told Reu- demic came along. Champions League campaign as they im- they wanted to return to competition on ters. Etar, the 1991 Bulgarian champions, are still Now the coach of Austria’s Red Bull Salz- pressed against Liverpool and Napoli. June 13, over three months since the season waiting for the results of Stanoev’s second test. The burg is preparing his team to return to action Haaland, the 19-year-old Norwegian, was halted, if they get the all-clear from the seven-times champions Slavia Sofia, the oldest club after a two-month shutdown. scored 28 goals in 22 games before joining Italian government. in the Bulgarian capital, said their defender Emil Salzburg have already been back training Dortmund and netting nine in his fi rst eight Viyachki was isolated with a suspected infection. in small groups but are set to resume collec- German Bundesliga appearances. “Viyachki is suspected of having the virus but we tive training today before the Austrian Bun- “He is a freak, he physically is gifted in don’t worry because he is isolated and has no con- desliga picks up again in early June. ways that very few people are. There is very tact with the others,” Slavia president Ventseslav “We had to all get tests today again to little that he can’t do in terms of the re- Stefanov said. “There is no room for concern.” The make sure that nobody had the virus. This quirements of the game at the highest level,” Bulgarian league will resume after the Covid-19 is the second time that we have had tests,” Marsch says. stoppage on June 5 without spectators and in a Marsch told AFP on Wednesday in a phone “You could see in every training session shortened format, which would allow the league interview. and every test game, he had moments that season to be completed within a month. “We will still have to keep distances in the were like ‘wow’, and those ‘wow’ moments locker room, and we will wear masks in the got to be more and more until sometimes it building. Even on the bench we will have to would be a 90-minute performance.” Polish MLS striker Przybylko keep distances of one metre between players If losing Haaland and Minamino in the The country’s sports minister Vincenzo says he contracted Covid-19 and coaching staff .” winter was a blow, Marsch points out that Spadafora has given clubs the green light to Unlike in Germany, where the league youth development is central to the strategy restart team training sessions from Mon- Philadelphia Union forward Kacper Przybylko resumes this weekend, teams in Austria of a club who have also polished players like day after players were allowed to enter club says he is the previously unidentified player the have not been forced into quarantine train- Sadio Mane and Naby Keita. facilities for individual sessions earlier in Major League Soccer club announced last month ing camps. the month. had tested positive for coronavirus. The 27-year- Indeed, if Germany has coped well IN DEFENCE OF US WOMEN The most delicate issue surrounding a old Polish striker said in a video posting on the enough with the pandemic to be able to Salzburg gave him an opportunity too, to possible restart to the 2019-20 campaign team’s website that he feels over the eff ects of the bring back football, Austria has arguably make a name for himself as an American is the quarantine period after an eventual coronavirus after having been quarantined for 14 done even better. coach in Europe. positive test, with government scientists days. “I feel great right now. I feel fully recovered,” With its population of almost nine mn, it “This is an experiment for me to see if seeking a two-week isolation period for Przybylko said. “I’m looking forward to the magical has registered only 624 deaths from under my way of thinking, my way of leadership, those who have been in contact with the moment to be back at the practice.” On April 1, 16,000 cases and began easing its lockdown of relationships, can function in the most infected person. the Union said a player had tested positive after in mid-April. competitive world of our sport here in Eu- “I don’t know why they made that deci- reporting mild symptoms. The team said no mass “If you were here and you saw how peo- rope, although I understand Austria is not sion, I’ve heard it’s one that could still be testing of players and staff was needed because ple have followed the rules, how they wear the highest level in Europe.” looked at, but I don’t want to enter into club facilities had been closed since March 12 and masks, how they respect each other’s space, Salzburg have not played since March 8. He still keeps a close eye on goings-on at these considerations,” said Malago of a rule the positive fell beyond the 14-day period where it would give you a lot of confi dence that the While in lockdown, Marsch focused on “fam- home, though, and has been supportive of the created by the government scientists. anyone would have been infected. “I immediately virus is well contained,” says Marsch, who ily, friends and football” and — like everyone it US women’s national team who recently had “These are serious people who no doubt, alerted the proper team off icials about my symp- was assistant coach at RB Leipzig in Germa- seems — “did a lot of Zoom calls”. their case to be paid the same as their male when placed with choosing between a re- toms and went straight to self-isolating,” Przybylko ny before moving to Salzburg last year. Now the season is returning, and Salz- counterparts thrown out by a federal judge. strictive or more fl exible rule, want to en- said. “I just needed some time for myself before I The 46-year-old Wisconsin native spent burg’s fi rst game is set to be the Cup fi nal “I just felt like those women earned more sure the country’s protection.” wanted to share with everybody.” lockdown in Salzburg with his wife and two against second-division Austria Lustenau than the respect of everybody to be treated Yesterday the Italian Football Federation sons. Their 18-year-old daughter stayed in in late May. like heroes and with full respect,” he says. (FIGC) announced that it was sending a Leipzig to fi nish high school but returned Then it will be back to the league, as the “After the lawsuit getting thrown out, team of inspectors to check that clubs were Besiktas chairman tests to the family before the border between the Red Bull club try to catch leaders LASK Linz yeah I have emotions for that too, because I respecting the current medical protocol positive for coronavirus countries closed. and claim a seventh straight title. They are would like to see them treated fairly.” put in place to enable the return to training. The chairman of Istanbul giants Besiktas tested positive for coronavirus after a series of medical A LOOK BACK checks on players and staff members, the club said yesterday, a month before games are set to resume. Earlier yesterday, the club said eight peo- ple at the club had contracted the virus. No further details were given, and it was not clear if chairman On this day: Born May 15, 1970: De Boer brothers Ahmet Nur Cebi was among the eight. Tests were conducted on footballers, technical committee Reuters club, highlighted by Champions Replacing Martin Jol at Ajax members and facility staff on Wednesday, Besiktas Cape Town, South Africa League success in 1995. Ronald in December 2010, Frank quickly said. The results will raise further concerns after played several attacking roles while went on to become the fi rst coach the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) said games in Frank earned a reputation as one of to win four successive Dutch league the top league would resume on June 12 after they ootball’s most famous the world’s top defenders. titles, earning him a place among were suspended in March. TFF chief Nihat Ozdemir twins turn 50 today but They took the club to court to a list of exciting young European said the matches would be played without specta- Fafter successful playing force a move to Barcelona, not long managers. tors but this could change depending on how the careers together, Frank and after signing a six-year contract But his switch to Inter Milan pandemic evolves. Ronald de Boer mark the milestone extension, arguing they had a ver- ended after a disastrous 85 days at a time when their paths have fi - bal agreement that if one brother and he was sacked after just 10 nally diverged. received a lucrative off er the other weeks at Crystal Palace in 2017 in No spitting or kissing the ball, The former Dutch internationals would be allowed to join him. another blow. says CONMEBOL won the Champions League with The pair eventually forced a He is now in a second season Ajax Amsterdam, the La Liga ti- 22mn pounds ($27.00mn) transfer, with Atlanta United, overcoming a Teams competing in South America’s Copa Liber- tle in the colours of Barcelona and but it led to their being lampooned tentative start there to begin to re- tadores and Copa Sudamericana have been told played together at two World Cups. as money-grabbing farm boys. build his reputation. players must avoid spitting and kissing the ball as But while the elder twin Ronald “We were indeed farm boys who There are no plans to team up part of new rules published by the region’s football dabbled in coaching before becom- had to tone down our accents in with his brother for now but a wish governing body (CONMEBOL) to combat Covid-19. ing a television analyst, Frank has Amsterdam,” Frank recalled in the In this January 18, 1999, picture, Dutch twin brothers Ronald (left) and to complete the circle. The two flagship tournaments were suspended in continued in the game, winning Dutch media. Frank de Boer pose with Barcelona’s shirts after joining the club. (Reuters) “Frank and I still have a childhood March due to the outbreak of the novel coronavi- four league titles as Ajax coach, “When we went to Barcelona dream: to become coach of a won- rus and new start dates have still to be decided. then fl opping in Serie A and the we enjoyed potatoes and vegeta- Rangers while his brother contin- for ex-players at the head of junior derful club together or to become CONMEBOL also said in a statement that players Premier League before heading bles best but now we know better. ued in Spain and Turkey. teams, but Frank made the biggest coach of the Dutch national team to- must not blow mucus from their nose or swap across the Atlantic to work in Major We became world citizens. Things They were later reunited in Scot- strides, also working as an assist- gether,” Ronald said recently. shirts after the game, and they must use their own League Soccer. change; from your tastes to the way land and fi nished their careers to- ant to national team coach Bert “But it will have to cross our personal water bottles. In addition, face masks Initially little kept them apart. you think about life.” gether in Qatar. van Maarwijk at the 2010 World paths at the right time. But I’m must be worn when giving post-match interviews Starting at Ajax, they were an Ronald stayed only one season Both then coached at Ajax, where Cup where the Netherlands were convinced that this puzzle piece and by substitutes on the bench. integral part of a golden era for the in Spain before joining Glasgow there are multiple opportunities runners-up. will fall into place again.” Gulf Times Friday, May 15, 2020 3 SPORT

NBA REPORT Silver targets 2-4 weeks for decision on How Lakers’ last resumption of season dynasty ended in a total dismantling ‘A LOT OF CHANGES AND THINGS THAT WE HAD GONE THROUGH AS A GROUP’

By Tania Ganguli and Broderick Turner Los Angeles Times

hen the Los Angeles Lakers’ last title run ended, Phil Jackson W (AFP) wasn’t sure if he’d NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. made the right decision in com- ing back. AFP organizations are handling “I remember him saying some- Los Angeles virus tests, according to re- thing to me after the game like, ports. ‘I probably shouldn’t have come Team owners and execu- back. I should have ended my ca- BA commissioner tives on the call departed with reer on a championship,’ ” recalled Adam Silver will optimism the NBA had mo- Mitch Kupchak, who was the Nstudy coronavirus mentum to solving the health Lakers general manager. “Then outbreak and test- risks associated with resum- he looked at me and he said, ‘But ing developments for another ing the NBA season in a secure I had to.’ two to four weeks before the setting with Las Vegas and “And he did. You gotta try to league decides about a return Orlando likely settings. ESPN win three in a row.” to competition, according to reported the league was try- From 2008 to 2010, the Lakers multiple reports. ing to develop an idea that any went to the NBA Finals in three The timetable, shared in a return would not be halted by consecutive seasons, winning conference call between Sil- one positive test, but risk as- two titles. As the celebration in ver and club owners, was the sessment and what happens the summer of 2010 waned, they fi rst indication about when with multiple positives are felt a certainty about their future the league might return from among the issues still to be that was bolstered by Jackson’s the coronavirus shutdown decided. decision to return as coach in July that began March 12, The Talks with the NBA players to chase a three-peat and his 12th Athletic and ESPN reported. union showed positive sup- championship. “Health is number 1. The port for resuming the season, “Things have a beginning and NBA will wait a month to de- according to the report. things have an end,” said Pau cide after getting more tests “Safety obviously 1st!” Gasol, one of the team’s stars. and data to show how seri- Dudley tweeted. “Nowhere “Nothing last forever, really.” ous the virus is,” Los Angeles will be as safe as the NBA In the summer of 2011, the Lak- Lakers forward Jared Dudley compound site they deter- ers didn’t make it past the second tweeted. mine.” round and they haven’t done it “We are at a place right now Exactly what format might since. They went six consecutive where it’s about health as it be used for an NBA comeback seasons without making the play- should be. The more data we has not been decided, ESPN off s — the worst drought in fran- In this file photo taken on May 16, 2011, the Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant (left) and head coach Phil Jackson share a few words during Game have the more you can show reported, with the possibil- chise history — before this year’s 4 of the NBA Western Conference semi-finals against the Mavericks in Dallas. (TNS) how safe it really is. It’s com- ity of all 30 teams playing to group appeared to have a real op- ing.” fi nish the regular season or portunity to chase another cham- have to be fully present in each games, the same as they had the you’re kind of left with the feel- not lead to a return to the playoff s. The NBA wants more time not and perhaps an expanded pionship and recapture the magic. singular moment and he wasn’t season before, and beat the Dallas ing, ‘What the …?’ ” said Brian The Lakers were on their way this to study the trajectory of new playoff s with a play-in for Because of their deep playoff able to be that for us.”The NBA Mavericks two of three times dur- Shaw, an assistant coach for that season, however, when James was cases, who is becoming se- teams beyond the usual 16 runs in reaching the Finals three landscape in the summer of 2010 ing the regular season. team. “But they caught lightning given another star in Anthony verely ill and how other sports spots. consecutive years, those Lakers was dominated by LeBron James’ But in the conference semi- in a bottle at the right time. … We Davis, the two were surrounded teams played nearly an entire ex- free agency. And while the Lakers fi nals the Lakers collided with a got to the playoff s and they just by seasoned veterans and the tra season worth of games. And would have loved to land him, it Mavericks team on a mission and got hot. They just blew through. group rose to be among the NBA’s SPOTLIGHT Jackson had been dealing with wasn’t a pressing matter. Near the were swept in four games. We didn’t have an answer for elite. “They care about the big health issues that would extend start of July, Jackson reconfi rmed That fourth game was ugly too. them.” picture,” Fisher said. “They care into the next season. his commitment for one more Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum Said Gasol: “We were already in about being one of those great “I think physically exhausted, season. got ejected. The 122-86 loss was not a great place and I think Dallas Lakers teams. … I just feel like the Report: MLB outlines but I think more than anything, The roster changed. Role play- their second-worst playoff loss in just smelled blood and went for Lakers group is very closely con- emotionally, just drained,” former ers Jordan Farmar, D.J. Mbenga, franchise history — second only to it.” It was a lesson in how dramati- nected and that’s what our groups guard Derek Fisher said. “A lot of Adam Morrison and Josh Powell their elimination loss to the Bos- cally things can change. The next were.” player safety plans changes and things that we had left, but the key pieces to the Lak- ton Celtics in the 2008 Finals. season brought the failed attempt This season’s Lakers have gone through as a group. You start ers’ championship would return. It was the fi rst time Jackson had to trade for Chris Paul and the talked about wanting the chance adding personalities in, you start Fisher returned, but after a been swept out of a series — an sore feelings that came with that. to fi nish what they started amid in 80-page memo taking certain personalities out. free-agency process that made unfi tting end to his coaching ca- Then the ill-fated season with a season interrupted by the COV- Phil just not being able to be fully him feel unwanted at times. reer. The Lakers took some sol- Dwight Howard and Steve Nash in ID-19 pandemic. Many know Reuters said there will be no limita- present, which is the one thing he Everything seemed fi ne early ace in the fact that the Mavericks 2012-13, which ended with Bry- from experience how diffi cult and Los Angeles tions on baseball teams tak- really taught us when he arrived next season. The Lakers started went on to win the championship, ant suff ering a torn left Achilles rare championship journeys are. ing the fi eld, provided social in L.A. To reach a certain level 13-2, looking every bit the de- beating James’ Miami Heat. tendon. If they forget, they need only to distancing and sanitization of greatness and excellence, you fending champions. They won 57 “Had they not done that, then Even signing James in 2018 did mine their franchise’s recent past. ajor League Base- protocol can be established. ball will send to Still, those games would not Mplayers an outline include fans. Washington Na- FOCUS of plans for play- tionals reliever Sean Doolittle er safety in the midst of the expressed detailed concerns coronavirus pandemic. about a return to play given According to Ken Rosenthal evidence that COVID-19 can of The Athletic, the detailed cause permanent lung dam- outline covers 80 pages and age. He also said MLB must NHL commissioner Bettman provides a step-by-step re- address frequency and vol- turn to spring training and ume of testing without tak- beyond. ing away tests from the public Owners approved restart- at large and how a “second ing spring training with a goal wave” of the coronavirus confi dent season will resume of beginning the 2020 regular would be addressed. AFP virus brought sports throughout around July 1. Under the plan, MLBPA executive board Los Angeles the United States and the world teams can hold spring train- member Andrew Miller of the to a grinding halt. ing at their home ballparks St. Louis Cardinals had simi- The regular season was origi- or return to their usual spring lar thoughts. HL commissioner Gary nally set to end on April 4, with training facilities in Florida or Miller said in an ESPN in- Bettman doesn’t know the Stanley Cup Finals originally Arizona in mid-June. terview that he’s not support- Nhow, and he doesn’t scheduled for June. The players association will ive of a return until safety is know when, but he re- Bettman has previously said review the player safety pro- guaranteed. The NBA report- mains confi dent the season halt- the league is considering multi- posal this week, per reports, edly shared with its players ed by the COVID-19 pandemic ple options for a return to play with the all-important dis- on Friday that there will need will resume. — including reported plans to go cussion around fi nancial fall- to be a level of understanding “I believe that if the right straight into some type of play- out from a shortened season around the likelihood of at time comes, and the right cir- off format rather than trying to yet to take place. least some positive tests. cumstances, based on all of the fi nish out regular-season games. Should games begin in July, “I don’t think anything can options that we’re considering Whatever format is approved, fans will not be present in be done until safety can be and our ability to execute them, Bettman said, “it’s got to be fair, ballparks, and there is ques- guaranteed and we feel com- we’ll get this season done,” the it’s got to have integrity, and if tion as to whether all home fortable with it,” Miller said. San Jose Mercury News reported we have to do it over the summer stadiums will be available to “We want to put a good prod- Bettman as saying at a virtual on some modifi ed basis, then host players-only games. Los uct on the fi eld, but that’s to- town hall hosted by the San Jose we’ll do it on that basis.” Angeles County is expected to tally secondary to the health Sharks on Tuesday. Bettman said he was in con- extend a stay-at-home order of the players. We are gener- “I don’t want to sound Polly- tact with executives of other into July, which would im- ally younger and healthier, anna, but canceling is too easy a leagues, including the NBA — pact the Los Angeles Dodgers but that doesn’t mean our solution,” he said. “That means which features multiple teams and every team because the staff is, that doesn’t mean you stop working hard to do all who share arenas with NHL All-Star Game is scheduled umpires are going to be in the of the things that we’re doing, clubs. to be held at Dodger Stadium clear.” and I ultimately believe that “All of the major leagues are on July 14. The game could be Baseball is being played in there will be an opportunity.” talking to each other and our canceled or moved on the cal- South Korea, but with several Bettman said the possibility medical people are talking once endar or to a new venue. measures in place designed to of not awarding the Stanley Cup a week,” he said. “But we’re all Other states are opening prevent the spread of COV- trophy is “not something I’m doing our own things, we’re all the door for sports to come ID-19. Players are tested daily, even contemplating.” considering our options and back even sooner. umpires wear masks, spitting The NHL halted play on we’re all trying to fi gure out what NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman. (AFP) In Georgia, Florida and is banned and high-fi ves are March 12, as the deadly corona- makes sense for our sports.” Arizona, governors have prohibited. Gulf Times 4 Friday, May 15, 2020 SPORT

RUGBY Savea second All Blacks Lockdown gives Scotland coach winger to leave Toulon time to mend fences with Russell Reuters through,” said the Scotland Glasgow coach. “You have highs and low and periods where you don’t under- he impasse between stand them and they don’t un- Scotland coach Gregor derstand you, but the important Townsend and fl yhalf thing is that we leave doors open T ulian Savea Finn Russell is a thing and also make an eff ort to con- has be- New Zealand rugby maybe or of the past as the pair have used nect and build relationships. come the second find another contract, that’s a the novel coronavirus lockdown “We want everyone avail- Jformer All Blacks five month, six-month timeline to work on their relationship. able for us and are gutted when winger to leave French in terms of what can happen Russell was dropped on the eve a player is injured or misses a club Toulon this week and because of Covid-19 still go- of January’s Six Nations opener chance to play. We want every- return to New Zealand to try ing.” The 29-year-old said he in Ireland and sat out three sub- body engaged and available to to continue his professional would ideally like to re-sign sequent matches after what play for Scotland because it’s a rugby career. with the Hurricanes, but would Scottish Rugby called “a breach massive thing in their lives. Savea’s former Wellington Hur- also contemplate a move to Ja- of team protocol”, with British Townsend said he hoped the ricanes and All Blacks team- pan or even consider a switch media reporting he missed train- relationship was better for all the mate Nehe Milner-Skudder to rugby league in Australia’s ing after a night out. drama. “That’s what I hope for confirmed on Wednesday that National Rugby League. The French-based outside with any player, including Finn.” injury had forced him to cut After helping the All Blacks half, with a reputation for freak- Scotland lost to Ireland and short his contract with Toulon to the 2015 Rugby World Cup ish fl air and match-winning England in their opening Six Na- and sign with the Otago High- title, Savea signed a lucra- ability, then said he had no rela- tions encounters but rallied to landers. tive long-term deal with New tionship with Townsend, despite win in Italy and then beat France The moves come after French Zealand Rugby but his form eight years working with him, without the enigmatic Russell off icials said last month they fell off dramatically and he and that a return to the team was in their lineup before their fi nal would cancel the remainder of was granted an early release unlikely. game of the 2020 tournament in the 2019/20 season because of in 2018 to join Toulon on a two- But Russell later softened Wales was postponed. the Covid-19 crisis. “Obviously year contract. his stance and Townsend then Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend. (Reuters) “There was an improvement the season’s done and I’m The winger, however, failed to confi rmed yesterday that the from game to game, a learning coming home soon hopefully, make the impact expected of 27-year-old would be available cause of the Covid-19 pandemic, in July. They have not yet been spoken to Russell repeatedly by of how to get better. Whether once everything dies down,” him, with club owner Mourad for selection when Scotland next it is not clear when that will be, postponed but Townsend con- telephone during the lockdown. that would have been the same Savea said in a video on his Boudjellal launching a furious play. although it had been planned ceded in a video news confer- “Players and coaches some- or better if the (Russell) incident Instagram account yesterday. tirade about his performances With international rugby’s for Russell to return for tests in ence that they were unlikely to times don’t have relationships hadn’t happened you can only “I guess trying to get back into last year. Reuters immediate plans in disarray be- South Africa and New Zealand go ahead. He also said he had that are the same all the way speculate,” Townsend added.

FOCUS CYCLING Tour of Britain called off , route to be used Broncos’ Miller on for 2021 edition

Reuters erdeen. Organisers ruled out London holding their Tour without spectators, saying it would go against what the race stands his year’s Tour of Brit- for. Covid-19 fi ght: Death ain scheduled for Sep- “Across the UK there are Ttember has been can- signifi cant doubts around the celled and the same potential to stage large-scale route will be used for the 2021 public events and gatherings edition, organisers said yes- such as the Tour of Britain as terday. early as September and while “The decision has been any form of social distanc- taken in light of the ongoing ing remains in place and there ‘did cross my mind’ situation with the Covid-19 isn’t a vaccine available, peo- pandemic, which makes con- ple’s health and safety must tinuing with the planning and come fi rst,” the statement said. The star linebacker believes mass testing will be the key to getting players back on the field organisation of the 2020 race “By moving this year’s impractical,” a statement said. planned route to September The high-profi le race which 2021 our venues and part- attracts crowds of 1.5mn spec- ners will be able to enjoy a full tators was won last year by 12-month build up to the race Dutchman Mathieu van der and once conditions allow Poel. we look forward to engaging This year’s route would have communities across all eight taken the peloton through stages.” Cornwall for the fi rst time and The provisional dates for the would have fi nished in Ab- 2021 event are September 5-12.

BOXING Possible Tyson return raises questions for promoter Hearn

In this file photo taken on June 28, 1997, Evander Holyfield (left) connects to the jaw of Mike Tyson in the first round of their title fight. (Reuters) File photo of Denver Broncos’ linebacker Von Miller during a warm-up session. (TNS) Reuters a 53-year-old legend back in the Reuters Wednesday, Miller opened up The time Miller was ill has during the pandemic. “Every day we need to test all London ring?” Hearn told British Boxing Los Angeles about his ordeal. impacted his off season regi- “They don’t even think it’s the players,” he said. “It’s got Television. “I had a message from He said the most frighten- men. real,” Miller said of friends and to be part of the routine. If one someone saying they wanted to ing thing was “not being able “Taking 17 days off and then teammates. “That’s the crazi- person gets this and it goes un- ritish promoter Eddie talk to me about Mike. He looks enver Broncos line- to breathe. I got asthma, but it trying to get back into it, I re- est part. I told them to take it detected, then that’s eight. Hearn says he would pretty dangerous. What’s com- backer Von Miller ad- was past the asthma attack — ally feel it,” he said. “I still feel serious. Take all of this serious. “Let’s say (Broncos wide re- Bprobably like to see pelling is could he actually go Dmitted to being fright- like my lungs were constricting. my lungs trying to get back in Take social distancing serious. ceiver) Courtland Sutton gets former heavyweight back in at 53 and do some dam- ened during his recent My asthma nebulizer helped, shape. It’s just all the wear and “I was going to Chipotle ear- tackled and he has the virus. champion Mike Tyson fi ght age? But should we be encourag- battle with Covid19, saying that but it still didn’t feel like it was tear that it puts on your lungs. lier, and I saw two people walk Now you got the other team; again but has questioned wheth- ing that from an all-time great? death “did cross my mind a lit- supposed to. Just going to sleep I’ve got asthma on top of that, out in masks. They took off the they have the virus. I want to er boxing should be encouraging “There’s a fi ne line and I’ve tle bit.” knowing that my oxygen level so to try to run with asthma masks before they had even got make sure all the players and all a 53-year-old to get back in the crossed it a couple of times — be- The 31-year-old former Su- could drop and I could wake up and then try to run after the out the store; I was like, ‘Hey!’ the staff and everybody coach- ring. tween integrity of the sport and per Bowl MVP was particularly and have to go to the hospital. coronavirus, that’s what I think They was all excited, but I was ing and everybody in the front Tyson, who became the entertainment delivering num- at risk for the eff ects of the “You can’t really taste. You some of the shortness of breath like: ‘I had the coronavirus; I offi ce gets tested every day. youngest heavyweight cham- bers. Our job is to deliver num- coronavirus as he has battled can’t really smell. That in turn comes from.” saw y’all take your masks off “Also, if a stadium holds pion of all time when he beat bers for broadcasters but we have asthma since childhood. kind of messes with your ap- The eight-time Pro Bowl early. Y’all should wear y’all 65,000 people, they might cut Trevor Berbick in 1986 aged 20, to keep it as close to the right Miller revealed April 16 that petite, so you’re not really eat- player added that he is disheart- masks all the way to the car.’ it down to about 16,000 people caught the attention of the box- mark as we can.” he tested positive for the illness. ing like you’re supposed to. The ened to see people downplaying Their smiles kind of changed.” and (spread people) out across ing world by posting training Former heavyweight cham- Two weeks later, he announced fi rst four, fi ve days I was hon- the virus’ threat. Such attitudes Regarding how the NFL the stadium. Everybody is go- videos on Instagram and has said pion Evander Holyfi eld has also that his latest test had come estly nervous. I wouldn’t say are prompting him to attempt should proceed in the face of the ing to have spaces to watch the he was considering exhibition released a training video on social back negative. that I thought I was going to die to raise awareness about the ill- outbreak, Miller believes mass game. Then you can get some of bouts to raise money for charity. media, fuelling speculation that In an interview with the or anything like that, but it did ness in addition to charity work testing will be the key to getting the real-life feel back, the real- “I would probably like to see it he could come out of retirement Washington Post published on cross my mind a little bit.” he is doing to provide meals players back on the fi eld. life football back.” but... is it a bit irresponsible to let to face one-time rival Tyson. Gulf Times Thursday, May 15, 2020 5 SPORT

CRICKET SPOTLIGHT No home matches for Giles vows England Ireland as Pakistan and New Zealand postpone tours training will be safer AFP entirely understand NZC (New London Zealand Cricket) was left with no choice but to stay at home.” As for the Pakistan fi xtures, reland will have no home in- Deutrom added: “Unfortunately, ternationals this season after with numerous complications Iit was announced yesterday around Government roadmap than shopping that tours by Pakistan and timelines, biosecurity, quaran- New Zealand had been post- tining, and scheduling harmony, poned due to the coronavirus. it just hasn’t been possible to fi nd Covid-19 had already forced a way to get the matches played.” Players to train individually on a staggered basis with a coach and physio the postponement of Ireland’s Pakistan Cricket Board chief early season games against executive Wasim Khan said: AFP Bangladesh and now a two- “It is sad that due to the cur- London match Twenty20 international rent Covid-19 pandemic, we series against Pakistan has gone have to postpone our tour to the same way. Ireland. We were looking for- ngland managing director Ashley Meanwhile New Zealand’s tour ward to returning to the venue Giles said initial plans announced of Europe has been postponed as (Malahide) where we featured Eyesterday to get the country’s well. The World Cup runners-up against Ireland in their inaugu- leading cricketers back training were due to arrive in June and ral Test in 2018 and a country should be safer than going to a super- play a eight limited-overs fi x- where our players have always market. But the former England spinner tures, with 20-over and 50-over been supported and admired by added that were international matches matches against Scotland in Ed- the friendly and knowledgeable to take place amid the coronavirus it inburgh, a T20 against the Neth- fans.” was “not realistic” for players to spend erlands in Rotterdam, as well Meanwhile New Zealand 10 weeks in squad quarantine away from as fi ve games against Ireland in Cricket chief David White exec- their families. Bready and Belfast. utive held out hope the matches The pandemic has delayed the start of Cricket Ireland have forecast could yet be played. the English cricket season until July 1 at there will be a 30% drop in their “These are extremely diffi cult the earliest. But the England and Wales year-on-year revenue, with the times for international cricket Cricket Board are still planning to stage board’s annual income estimated and we feel deeply for our friends a full home international programme at 9.5-10mn euros (£8.4-8.8mn, in the northern hemisphere, starting with a three-Test series against $10.2-10.8mn). Although there whose season has been so badly the West Indies, originally, scheduled for will be some savings from not disrupted,” he said. “Hopefully, June, now set to get underway in July. staging cricket, these will go to in brighter and less dangerous Three more Tests against Pakistan fol- pay for as-yet-unknown addi- times, we can return and play low, as well as limited-overs matches tional fi xtures in 2021. the games that have been post- with Australia and Ireland. Wednes- Ireland do have three one-day poned.” day saw the British government publish internationals away to England There has been speculation guidelines on how elite sportsmen and scheduled for September, but the the England-Ireland ODIS could women could return to training. uncertainty over whether Pa- be rescheduled for earlier in the The ECB have responded by selecting a kistan’s tour of England can go season, although a cautious Deu- still-to-be announced training squad of ahead has led them to call off the trom said: “We will continue to 30 players, with bowlers leading the way Irish leg of their trip. work with the ECB (England and at seven grounds from Wednesday of next “It had become fairly obvi- Wales Cricket Board) on trying to week. After a two-week period, once the ous following the recent series make these fi xtures happen, but bowlers have reached their desired load- of Government announcements the issues involved will take a lit- ing eff orts, batsmen and wicketkeepers in the Republic and UK that the tle while to work through.” will start their programmes, with 11 ven- New Zealand series was not fea- ECB chief executive Tom Har- ues in all set to host training sessions. sible,” said CI chief executive rison has estimated a wiped By starting with the bowlers, England’s Warren Deutrom in a statement. out season could cost his board attack should have seven weeks to get “Given the circumstances we £380mn. overs under the belts before the resched- uled fi rst Test. Players will train individu- ally on a staggered basis with a coach and FOCUS physio in attendance. “This is individual-based training so in many ways we should be able to get con- Ashley Giles, managing director of England men’s cricket team. trol of the environment right so it’s safer Du Plessis backs to go back to practice than it is to go to the risk as we possibly can.” down in camp for over two months, with the world are suff ering right now and we supermarket,” Giles told reporters in a Giles admitted, however, it would be the likes of England captain Joe Root set have got to try and do our bit to protect conference call yesterday. diffi cult to prevent bowlers shining the to become a father again in that time. the business.” double quarantine Cricket West Indies chief executive ball as normal with saliva and sweat on “We have a good bunch of players, but Giles added that while countries were Johnny Grave told the BBC there would be health grounds. “How are we going to it isn’t realistic to expect them to be in a all “fi ghting our own fi res” at the mo- “no coercing players into touring, adding stop Jimmy Anderson walking back to his bubble for 10 weeks,” said Giles. “Testing, ment, global cooperation would be need- to salvage T20 WC a UK death toll of more than 30,000 from mark touching his forehead for example tracing and tracking will have changed a ed amid doubts over October’s Twenty20 the virus was a “massive fi gure” if you and then the ball? It’s going to be tricky to hell of a lot by then and that should help World Cup in Australia and cricket’s fu- AFP grew up in Caribbean country where that break those habits.” us. Otherwise we are going to have to be ture tours programme. “We are worried Dhaka might represent half the total population. Plans are being drawn up to play smart with selection.” about getting our own deals done. It’s the “I would be nervous, certainly,” said matches at ‘bio-secure’ venues with ECB chief executive Tom Harrison has same everywhere else around the world. Giles. “But we are doing everything we grounds such as Hampshire’s Ageas Bowl warned a season without any match- But in the future it will be important we ormer South Africa possibly can to answer all of the West and Old Traff ord reportedly favoured be- es at all could cost the board £380mn work together and there is a united front skipper Faf du Plessis Indies’ questions. We will be speaking to cause they have on-site hotels. But Giles ($463mn). “We are a business like every- because we are not going to play without Fsaid quarantining play- Pakistan as well and mitigating as much stressed players would not be locked one else,” said Giles. “Businesses across sides giving a bit to each other.” ers for two weeks before and after the Twenty20 World Cup could allow it to take place ROUND-UP in Australia this year despite the coronavirus pandemic. The tournament is due to be played in October-November but there Playing entire India series in Adelaide gets Head’s nod is uncertainty after the cancel- lation of other major sporting ustralia vice captain Travis concerts going on and... the (curator) has The 47-year-old Tendulkar said in a events. Some countries have also Head backed yesterday the idea been able to prepare a wicket and drop civil lawsuit fi led last year that Spartan grounded international fl ights. Aof playing the entire Test series it in the middle of the square, day of the had agreed to pay him at least $1mn a “I read that travelling is going against India in a ‘bio-secure’ game or two days out of the game. And year to use his image, logo and promo- to be an issue for lots of coun- fi ers for next year’s women’s Adelaide Oval to ensure the lucrative you wouldn’t even notice as a player.” tional services but failed to make a single tries,” du Plessis said during a World Cup and the 2022 Un- fi xture goes ahead later this year. Cricket The Indian cricket board has said the payment owed since 2016. live conversation on Facebook der-19 World Cup. Both were due Australia (CA) is banking heavily on tourists would be ready to spend two “Spartan sincerely apologises to Mr with Bangladeshi opener Tamim to be held in July. the series, reportedly worth A$300mn weeks in quarantine in Australia if that Tendulkar for its failure to honour his Iqbal on Wednesday. The ICC said in April that ($195mn) in revenue, to help it cope with helped the tour go ahead as planned. The sponsorship agreement and is grateful “Obviously Australia is not af- planning for the Twenty20 a fi nancial crisis triggered by the corona- teams are scheduled to play four tests for Mr Tendulkar’s patience in resolving fected like other countries, but World Cup was still going ahead virus pandemic. and three one-day internationals in De- this dispute,” its director Les Galbraith to get people from Bangladesh, as scheduled. Du Plessis also The South Australian Cricket Associa- cember and January but eff orts are on to said in a joint statement issued by the South Africa or India where spoke about his team’s heart- tion (SACA) has pitched Adelaide Oval as squeeze in a fi fth test or a couple of extra parties yesterday. Spartan said the bat- there is more danger with the vi- breaking loss to New Zealand in a Test hub for the series which might end limited-overs matches. ting great has had no association with rus, obviously it’s a health risk to the 2015 World Cup semi-fi nal. up being played behind closed doors and them since September 2018 and also them. But you can actually go in “I’ve never been that much at a single venue because of travel and TENDULKAR SETTLES LAWSUIT cancelled the trademark it had registered before the tournament (for) two broken about a cricket match,” other restrictions forced by the pandem- WITH AUSTRALIAN BAT-MAKER featuring Tendulkar’s silhouette playing weeks’ isolation and then play he said. “That game specifi cally ic. Head said his home ground, where able to cope and withstand back-to-back Indian cricket great Sachin Tendulkar a cricket stroke. the tournament and afterwards, I have never seen so many grown an on-site hotel was being constructed, test matches,” said the South Australia has settled his lawsuit with Spartan Tendulkar quit international cricket two weeks’ isolation.” men absolutely broken. Like half could handle the pressure of hosting skipper. Sports International, having earlier ac- in 2013 as its most prolifi c scorer, having The game’s governing body, the team was crying and you consecutive matches. “If it comes down “We’ve had instances where there’ll cused the Australian bat manufacturer of amassed a record 34,000-plus runs in- the International Cricket Coun- know South Africans, we act like to that, I know that it will defi nitely be be A-League games, rugby league or failing to pay him $2mn in royalties. cluding an unprecedented 100 centuries. cil, on Tuesday postponed quali- we are hard guys.”

Cancel French Open rather than BADMINTON play without spectators: Leconte Hidayat slams Indonesia’s sports ministry Paris: Henri Leconte says the decision. The federation hopes French Open should be cancelled that in a few months we’ll be able AFP Hidayat, who denied knowing the money was a if it is impossible to have specta- to play Roland Garros (in normal Jakarta bribe, claimed that it was common for ministry offi - tors at the claycourt Grand Slam conditions)... but playing it behind cials to embezzle funds through sports programmes. event. “I think there is just no closed doors, no. I think it would But he acknowledged that he had no concrete evi- interest in having Roland Garros be better to cancel it and start n Indonesian badminton legend has claimed dence to back up the claims. behind closed doors,” Leconte, again by having a real season in the Southeast Asian nation’s sports minis- The youth and sports ministry did not respond to who lost to Mats Wilander in the 2021.” try is full of corrupt “rats”, after admitting requests for comment. However, local media quoted L’Equipe TV A 1988 final, told . French federation president his own role in a bribery case. “No matter Youth and Sports Ministry secretary Gatot S. Dewa The French tennis federation Bernard Giudicelli has said who the minister is, it’ll be the same,” retired Olym- Broto as saying that the claims were unfounded. “We has moved the tournament from holding the tournament without pic gold medallist Taufi k Hidayat said in a YouTube just need to prove (that he’s wrong) by doing our its initial May 24-June 7 dates to spectators was one possibility interview this week. “Half the building should be de- work,” Broto reportedly said. September 20-October 4 because being considered. The organisers stroyed because there are so many rats inside.” Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission of the coronavirus pandemic. of Wimbledon have cancelled the The 38-year-old’s comments came after he testi- said Hidayat should fi le a formal complaint outlining “It will be diff icult for the play- 2020 tournament while the US fi ed in court last week that he delivered 1bn rupiah his claims. The archipelago of more than 260mn is ers to deal with it,” Leconte said. Open remains for now in its origi- ($67,000) to the personal assistant of former youth riddled with corruption at all levels of society and its “This is above all else a political nal August-September slot. and sports minister Imam Nahrawi, who is on trial for parliament is widely viewed as one of its most graft- corruption. hit institutions Friday, May 15, 2020 GULF TIMES SPORT

F1 Sainz to succeed Vettel at Ferrari as Ricciardo heads to McLaren ‘It’s a dream. I think you can imagine how happy I am, and what a special day it is for me’

Sainz is an ‘ideal fi t’ for Ferrari London: The talk was of luring the main Red Bull team and eager to six-times world champion Lewis Ham- move on, Sainz was loaned to Renault ilton from Mercedes to Ferrari but in for a year with uncertainty beyond the end it was Carlos Sainz, a driver that. He ended up at McLaren in 2019 yet to win anything in Formula One, when compatriot Fernando Alonso who signed on the dotted line. departed and Australian Daniel Ric- The 25-year-old was confirmed ciardo turned down the opportunity. yesterday on a two-year deal as the It proved to be the making of him, replacement for four-times world Sainz finishing sixth overall last sea- champion Sebastian Vettel when the son and the highest driver from out- German departs the Italian team at side the top three teams. “Carlos is a the end of the year. true professional, a pleasure to work Ferrari believe the Spaniard, who with and we will continue to enjoy has just one podium finish from 102 going racing with him this year,” said races but can now expect to win McLaren principal Andreas Seidl. Carlos Sainz will leave McLaren some, will be an ideal partner for Those same qualities will be valued following the 2020 season to Charles Leclerc as the team plot a at Ferrari, where Leclerc may look partner 22-year-old Charles long-overdue return to the top. like the main man but cannot rest Leclerc at Ferrari, forming the “Carlos has proved to be very on his laurels at a team hungry for a team’s youngest pairing in the talented and has shown that he has first title since the 2008 constructors’ past 50 years. (AFP) the technical ability and the right crown. Sainz is a team player, sure of attributes to make him an ideal fit his abilities and with plenty of pace. with our family,” said Ferrari principal The partnership with Lando Norris Mattia Binotto. at McLaren has been remarkably The move into one of the most cov- free of friction, with the pair winning eted seats at the most glamorous and plenty of admirers. While Vettel was successful team in the sport’s history paid a reported $40mn a year, Sainz puts the Spaniard in the company of will get a fraction of that — a relief to greats, even if he will surely never Ferrari even if drivers’ salaries are not match the achievements of a Michael included in a budget cap due to come Schumacher or Niki Lauda. into force next year. It is quite a turnaround for a driver “We’ve embarked on a new cycle whose career has gone through with the aim of getting back to the twists and turns off track as well top in Formula One,” said Binotto. “It as on it. He joined Red Bull-owned will be a long journey, not without Toro Rosso, now AlphaTauri, in 2015 its diff iculties, especially given the alongside a then 17-year-old Max Ver- current financial and regulatory situ- AFP referring to the additional challenges stappen who was already the energy ation, which is undergoing a sudden Paris created by the coronavirus pandemic. drink brand’s favourite and hailed as a change and will require this challenge “We believe that a driver pairing with future world champion. to be tackled in a diff erent way to the the talent and personality of Charles In 2018, passed over for a seat with recent past.” (Reuters) panish driver Carlos Sainz will and Carlos... will be the best possible replace four-time Formula One combination to help us reach the goals Sworld champion Sebastian Vet- we have set ourselves.” McLaren and our mission to return to house replacement. tel at Ferrari next season, while Sainz emerged in pole position to the front of the fi eld,” said McLaren Alonso, 38, quit F1 in 2018 but hasn’t Daniel Ricciardo has signed a “multi- succeed Vettel at Maranello after the team principal Andreas Seidl. ruled out a return to the sport. Vettel’s year” deal with McLaren from 2021. German announced Tuesday he was “With Daniel and Lando as team- future meanwhile remains uncertain. “It’s a dream,” said Sainz in a video he quitting Ferrari after talks over a new mates, I believe we have two racers who “What’s been happening in these past posted on social media. “I think you contract broke down. will continue to excite our fans and help few months has led many of us to re- can imagine how happy I am, and what Sainz, whose father, also Carlos, is a the team grow.” fl ect on what are our real priorities in a special day it is for me.” two-time world rally champion, drove Ricciardo has won seven races and life,” said the 32-year-old Vettel. Sainz, 25, will leave McLaren follow- for Red Bull’s feeder team Toro Rosso recorded 29 podium fi nishes since his “One needs to use one’s imagination ing the 2020 season to partner 22-year- and Renault before impressing with F1 debut with the HRT team at the Brit- and to adopt a new approach to a situa- old Charles Leclerc at Ferrari, forming McLaren last season. He secured the ish Grand Prix in 2011. He drove for Red tion that has changed. I myself will take the team’s youngest pairing in the past once all-conquering British team’s fi rst Bull’s junior team Toro Rosso in 2012 the time I need to refl ect on what really 50 years. “With fi ve seasons already be- podium place in almost six years in Bra- and 2013 before making the jump to the matters when it comes to my future.” hind him, Carlos has proved to be very zil last year. The signing will also end fl agship Red Bull team in 2014. After the fi rst 10 races of the corona- talented and has shown that he has any lingering speculation about six- Australia’s Daniel Ricciardo will line up alongside Britain’s Lando Norris at He fi nished third in the drivers’ virus-hit 2020 campaign were either the technical ability and the right at- time champion Lewis Hamilton leaving McLaren in 2021 after he leaves Renault at the end of this season. (Reuters) standings in 2014 and 2016. He failed cancelled or postponed, organisers tributes to make him an ideal fi t with Mercedes for Ferrari. to muster a single top-three fi nish in a hope to start the season in Austria with our family,” Ferrari team boss Mattia Sainz said he planned to fi nish them,” he said. “We’ll keep pushing and ciardo, 30, will line up alongside Brit- disappointing fi rst season at Renault. back-to-back races on July 5 and 12. F1 Binotto said in a statement yesterday. strongly with McLaren when the sea- then there will be time to talk about red ain’s Lando Norris, 20, in 2021 after he Ricciardo’s exit at Renault could open chief Chase Carey last week insisted a “We’ve embarked on a new cycle son resumes. “You know how fond I cars.” leaves Renault at the end of this season. the door for Fernando Alonso to reu- 15-18 race season was still possible, but with the aim of getting back to the top am of McLaren, how fond I am of this Australian Ricciardo will drive for “Daniel is a proven race-winner nite with the team where he won world he admitted that all scenarios are on the in Formula 1. It will be a long journey, team and how much I want to fi nish McLaren next season when he takes and his experience, commitment and titles with in 2005 and 2006, although table “including the remote possibility not without its diffi culties,” he added, this 2020 in the best possible way with over the seat left vacant by Sainz. Ric- energy will be a valuable addition to they are reportedly keen to fi nd an in- of no racing in 2020”

SPOTLIGHT GOLF Pro golf returns without fans in South Korea McIlroy backs PGA return plan, AFP Yangju, South Korea will play fi rst three events

layers were ordered to keep two me- AFP ryone safe and get the PGA Tour tres apart and there was no touch- Miami back up and running again.” Ping the fl agsticks without gloves as McIlroy doesn’t see a dimin- women’s professional golf returned ished impact due to the lack of post-coronavirus in South Korea yesterday. orld number one roars from the crowds. “The at- Spectators were barred from the Lake- Rory McIlroy mosphere isn’t going to be the wood Country Club as the KLPGA Cham- Wsupports the US same as if there’s 50,000 people pionship, a domestic tournament, got PGA Tour health on the golf course, but I don’t underway with world top-10 players Park and safety plan for returning to think it in any way will take away Sung-hyun, Kim Sei-young and Lee Jeong- competition in June, saying he from the integrity of the compe- eun in the fi eld. In an unusually quiet round plans to play all three events next tition or the quality of the golf,” in Yangju, northeast of Seoul, none of the month. McIlroy, whose four ti- McIlroy said. trio could break par, with Park and Lee card- tles last year included the Tour For now, the schedule includes ing one-over 73s and Kim 74. Joint leaders and Players championships, the PGA Championship in Au- Bae Seon-woo, Kim Char-young and Hyun liked the safeguards outlined on gust followed by the tour playoff s Se-lin all shot 67. Wednesday by the PGA, includ- with the US Open and Ryder Cup The tournament, normally overlooked ing coronavirus tests and events in September and the Masters in outside South Korea, is the fi rst high-level played without spectators. early November. “Things could women’s golf to be played since the US- “I believe the PGA Tour has a for the deadly virus before com- defi nitely be coming thick and based LPGA suspended its season in Febru- very robust policy in place, and, ing to the venue and again upon fast,” McIlroy said. “You have to ary. With sports fans around the world long if they can execute it, I feel com- arrival, then undergo daily tem- be ready to go. Stay sharp. Stay deprived of live action, rights have been sold South Korean golfers Lee Jeong-eun (second right) and Cho A-yean (left) greet their fortable getting back out there perature checks at the course and ready. It’s pedal to the metal to to broadcasters in countries including the caddies after finishing the first round of the 42nd KLPGA Championship at Lakewood and playing and travelling,” McIl- such measures as face masks and the end of the year to try to get US, Canada and Australia. “Interest is very Country Club in Yangju, northeast of Seoul, yesterday. (AFP) roy said. The 31-year-old, four- social distancing as needed. “If as much golf in as possible. I per- high since this is the fi rst golf tour in the time major winner from Northern you take the necessary precau- sonally am looking forward to world amid the pandemic,” the KLGPA said golfi ng talent, with eight players in the cur- social distancing, with no caddies or family Ireland plans to tee off when the tions — wearing a face covering, that, if it can happen.” in a statement. rent world top 20. Park, the world number members allowed to sit at the same table in PGA resumes its season on June 11 washing your hands frequently, The British Open was called To avoid any coronavirus infection, play- three and a double-major winner, sixth- the lounge. at Colonial in the Charles Schwab sanitising your hands frequently, off due to the coronavirus pan- ers were advised to keep two metres (six feet) ranked Kim — a nine-time winner on the The tournament comes after South Ko- Challenge at Fort Worth, Texas. practising social distancing — demic. “If we can get the other apart on the course and minimise physi- LPGA Tour — and number 10 Lee Jeong-eun rea — which endured one of the worst early McIlroy also intends to play I really do think it’s possible,” three majors in, do them in the cal contact, while touching the pin without are part of a 150-strong fi eld chasing the outbreaks of the disease outside mainland the next two PGA tournaments, McIlroy said. “If everyone fol- right way and make sure that gloves was prohibited. Players also had to $180,000 winner’s cheque from a tourna- China but has brought it under control the Heritage in South Carolina lows the guidelines and does the you’re keeping everyone safe wear masks before and after their rounds, ment-record purse of $2.5mn. with a widespread “trace, test and treat” on June 18-21 and the Travelers right thing, I see no reason why while they’re on, it’s something but could choose whether or not to do so Bae, one of the fi rst-round leaders, only programme — saw professional football Championship on June 25-28 at you wouldn’t be comfortable I’m looking forward to,” McIlroy during play — with most deciding against. completed two weeks of self-isolation six and baseball resume last week, also behind TPC River Highlands near Hart- with the logistics of getting to an said. “I’m eager to play again and Apart from the host broadcaster, media days ago following her arrival from Japan. closed doors. Only four LPGA Tour events ford, Connecticut — all without event and from.” I’ll play as much as necessary to were restricted to the fi rst and 10th tees, Playing without fans was a “pity”, Kim Sei- have been completed this year — the last in spectators. “We’re going to have The PGA Tour will stage a give myself a chance to win tour- with personnel required to wear face masks young said after her pre-tournament prac- Adelaide in February — but the tour has out- to take as many precautions as fourth event in Detroit in early naments and keep myself at the at all times. “I was surprised to see so many tice. “Usually a lot of fans show up, more lined plans to resume in mid-July in Michi- possible to be able to put tour July without spectators before top of the world ranking.” camera crews at the fi rst tee, feeling as if I here in Korea than in the US,” she said. “But gan. The men’s US PGA Tour, which came to events on again,” McIlroy said. the possibility of allowing fans McIlroy has tried to pick up was seeing a gallery,” Park said. “From the I’m thankful for just even being able to play.” a juddering halt when the Players Champi- “If they can execute it the right at a tournament July 9-12 at the some lessons from retired NBA second tee, it became all quiet and you could Everyone entering the course had their onship was abandoned after the fi rst round way, I see no reason why we can’t John Deere Classic in Sylvis, Il- star Michael Jordan while watch- hear every little sound,” she added.”It felt a temperature checked and had to provide in March, has pencilled in a restart behind start June 11. If we do, I’ll be ready linois. “It’s the new normal for ing The Last Dance” documentary little boring, yet refreshing.” their personal information. Players also closed doors at the Charles Schwab Chal- to go in Fort Worth.” right now,” McIlroy said. “That’s and staying fi t, but he yearns to South Korea is a hothouse for women’s have to eat their meals alone to maintain lenge beginning June 11 at Fort Worth, Texas. Plans would have players test just got to be for us to keep eve- compete again.