SPORT

Wednesday 9 August 2017

PAGE | 21 PAGE | 22 PAGE | 23 Golden McLeod Balanced England Stoke City’s Ireland restores Jamaican canca win Ashes series, back in the game, sprint pride says du Plessis thanks to Aspetar Kiprop eyes El Guerrouj’s record four world titles Reuters

sbel Kiprop, ’s three-time world champion over 1,500 metres, said yester- Aday that he has come to London to equal the four world titles of the Moroccan middle-dis- tance great . The 28-year-old Kiprop, a former Olympic champion, hopes to get his fourth championship at the Championships, before he moves on to 5,000m. “I want to become the first and only Kenyan to equal El Geurrouj’s four-title mark, then I move to 5,000m,” Kiprop told Reuters at the Kenyan team hotel in central London. His 1,500m cam- paign starts tomorrow. Qatari sprinter Abdalelah Haroun celebrates after British multiple world champion Mo Farah winning the bronze medal in the men’s 400 meters will again be the favourite in the men’s 5,000m event of the 2017 IAAF World Championships at when the qualification rounds start on Wednes- the London Stadium in London yesterday. day at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Stadium. The last Kenyan to win the 5,000m was Benjamin Limo in 2005 in Helsinki. “We have a serious challenge in the 5,000m,” Kiprop said. “I hope and pray that I will be able to fulfil my ambition in the 1,500m before setting Haroun wins bronze my eyes on this event (5,000m).” Spotakova reclaims London Nathon Allen (Jamaica) in the diagnosed with an infectious dis- Agencies final stretch. ease and ordered to observe a At the London Stadium in Lon- 48-hour quarantine. world javelin title oung Qatari sprinter don, United Kingdom yesterday, That did not stop Makwala try- Abdalelah Haroun Van Niekerk, who also set the ing to get into the stadium before after 10 years blasted through in the world record when winning Olym- being refused entry. final stretch to secure pic gold in Rio last year, was in “The IAAF is very sorry that the London the bronze medal, imperious form, running a devas- hard work and talent of Isaac Reuters clockingY 44.48 seconds in the tating final bend to finish in 43.98 Makwala won’t be on display men’s 400 metres final of IAAF seconds. tonight but we have to think of the arbora Spotakova of the Czech Republic World Athletics Championships “It’s an amazing blessing,” said welfare of all athletes,” world ath- regained the javelin world title she first won yesterday. Van Niekerk, whom Usain Bolt has letics’ governing body said in a B10 years ago at the World Championships South African Wayde van pegged as his most likely succes- statement. yesterday. Niekerk got his bid for an auda- sor as the athlete capable of And so Van Niekerk now The world record holder threw 66.76 metres cious 200/400m double off to a dominating the track after the turns to the 200m, in which nei- on her second attempt in the final, which proved flying start when he defended his Jamaican sprint star’s exit from ther Bolt nor the world’s fastest enough to clinch a second world gold for the one-lap title yesterday while Ste- athletics after these world champs. man this season, Makwala, are 36-year-old. ven Gardiner of the Bahamas was “I’ve got a good team that will running. Spotakova, who claimed the second of her a clear second in 44.41. The help me recover after this and I’ll Should Van Niekerk bag the Olympic titles in the same London stadium five 20-year-old world junior cham- be back tomorrow.” double, it would be the first since years ago, improved on her 2016 performance pion and Asian Champion There was drama before the American Michael Johnson when she won bronze in the Rio Games. Haroun made his way through race, however, as the IAAF barred achieved the feat at the 1995 China’s Li Lingwei, twice Asian champion, to snatch bronze by overcoming in-form Botswanan Isaac Mak- worlds in Gothenburg and a year threw a personal best of 66.25 to clinch silver and Baboloki Thebe (Botswana) and wala from competing after he was later at the Atlanta Olympics. her compatriot Lyu Huihui, who came second in two years ago, claimed bronze with her penultimate throw of 65.26. Isco magic seals UEFA Super Cup for Real Madrid

Skopje from the Premier League club Madrid’s players celebrate with start of the second half, yet it was AFP in the final stages. the trophy after winning the UEFA at the other end that the chances It was to no avail, with Zin- Super Cup final against Manchester kept coming. delightful goal by Isco edine Zidane’s side winning this United at the Philip II Arena in Skopje De Gea repelled a Kroos pile- proved the difference as trophy for the second year run- yesterday. driver but there was nothing he AReal Madrid survived a ning and the fourth time overall. could do to stop Isco making it Manchester United fightback to It is the eighth time in nine years 2-0 in the 52nd minute. win 2-1 and lift the UEFA Super that a Spanish club has won the Surrounded by red shirts just Cup in the Macedonian capital Super Cup. inside the area to the left, Isco of Skopje yesterday. While Ronaldo started on the escaped their attentions by play- Casemiro put the reigning bench for Madrid having only ing a one-two with Bale before European champions in front on commenced pre-season train- coolly finishing past De Gea. 24 minutes on a steamy sum- ing at the weekend, Bale was Bale then struck the bar, and mer’s night in the Balkans and included in the line-up. all this was going on without Isco doubled their lead seven United boss Mourinho Ronaldo, who appeared from the minutes into the second half caused a stir on Monday when bench to warm-up, raising hys- after a one-two with Gareth he claimed he would make a bid teric cheers from the sizeable Bale. to take the Welshman to Old number of locals with sympa- The gulf in class between Trafford if he were not a starter thies for the Spanish side. Madrid -- for whom Cristiano at the Philip II Arena. United had a mountain to Ronaldo appeared as a late sub- Despite the presence of £75m climb and were not helped when stitute -- and Europa League ($97m) signing Lukaku up front, Lukaku blazed over after Keylor winners United that Jose Mour- with Paul Pogba behind, United Navas pushed a Pogba header inho had feared was all too gave the impression that they out into his path. evident and it looked like the could do with some extra inspi- The Brazilian midfielder first half as Dani Carvajal was intervene to save from a Karim Lukaku did not make the Spaniards would go on to win ration in the final third. almost opened the scoring in the afforded the time to flight a ball Benzema snap-shot that fol- same mistake twice, converting by a wider margin. Having missed much of last 16th minute, getting in front of over Victor Lindelof -- another lowed a driving run into the area the rebound when a Nemanja But Romelu Lukaku pulled season’s run-in due to injury, Matteo Darmian to head a Toni United debutant -- for Casem- by Luka Modric, as Zidane’s side Matic drive was not convincingly one back just past the hour, Bale is fit again, but it was Kroos corner against the bar iro to stretch and volley past were restricted to a one-goal dealt with by Navas, but the marking his competitive debut Casemiro who emerged as the from six yards. David de Gea. lead at the break. ‘keeper redeemed himself with for United with a goal and unlikely main threat going for- And the breakthrough came De Gea, formerly a Madrid Mourinho sent on Marcus a vital late save to deny sparking a big improvement ward for Real in the first half. just past the midway point in the transfer target, then needed to Rashford for Jesse Lingard at the Rashford. SPORT WEDNESDAY 9 AUGUST 2017 21

Omar McLeod (right) of Jamaica celebrates winning the men’s 110 metres hurdles Williams final at the 2017 IAAF World Championships in London on Monday. stars as Pirates top Tigers 3-0 Pittsburgh AP

revor Williams allowed one hit over seven dom- Tinant innings to outduel Detroit’s Jordan Zimmermann and lead the Pittsburgh Pirates to a 3-0 victory on Monday night. Williams (5-4) struck out five and walked two, giving up only a leadoff single to James McCann in the third. Williams threw a career-high 107 pitches and never allowed a runner to third base. The Pirates have won three straight and four out of five. Bolt to run Francisco Cervelli gave the Pirates the early lead with Golden McLeod restores an RBI double off Zimmer- in 4x100 mann (7-9) in the second. John Jaso provided some late insurance with a pinch-hit metres two-run homer in the seventh. Jamaican sprint pride Zimmermann struck out qualifiers three and walked two in London “I really wanted to keep the was initially matched by seven innings. The Tigers Reuters Jamaican flag flying,” he said Shubenkov and Merritt. have dropped three straight London afterwards. Once he hurdled into over- following a four-game win- Reuters mar McLeod brought “This one is so special, hon- drive, though, his pursuers could ning streak. the smile back to He’s still a legend! estly. There was a lot of pressure not get close to him but The Pirates are hanging sain Bolt will run in the Jamaican sprinting coming in, but I channelled it Shubenkov, who was not around the fringe of the NL 4x100 metres relay as he powered to Usain, brother, this is positively. It’s totally different to allowed to compete at last year’s Central race thanks in part to Uheats for Jamaica on the 110 metres hur- for you!: Omar last year (in Rio) when we had Olympics because of the IAAF the back end of the starting Saturday despite being a bit Odles title at the World Athletics Usain and Elaine winning, ban on Russia, still was not rotation. Williams has stead- McLeod after winning sore after winning bronze in Championships on Monday which I used to propel me. happy with silver. ily improved following a the 100m final at the week- before dedicating his triumph to the men’s 110 metres “I didn’t have that this time There was nothing but bumpy start to his first full end, he has told Reuters on Usain Bolt. hurdles title so I really wanted to come out complete surprise from the year in the majors. The Monday. Following the shock defeats and shine my own light.” bronze medal winner Baji, who 25-year-old’s ERA soared to Bolt usually runs in the of Bolt and Elaine Thompson in Indeed, as the only top- roared through the field over 7.98 after getting rocked by 200 metres individual event the 100 metres events, McLeod, flight hurdler who has broken the final five metres to snatch Los Angeles on May 8. It now but opted not to compete at another overwhelming race 10 seconds for the 100 metres his reward with a desperate dip stands at 4.17 following the that distance in London, which favourite from the Caribbean as well as 13 seconds for the 110 at the line. best start of his career. is his last major champion- island, made no mistake as he Shubenkov, who clocked metres hurdles, the only worry For Merritt, it was also an The Tigers hit the ball ships before he retires, and the added the world crown to the 13.14, was the first Russian to win for McLeod these days is to emotional night as he momen- hard at times. Ian Kinsler hit 30-year-old therefore has the Olympic title he won last year. a medal in London while Hun- ensure he does not go too fast tarily threatened to complete a ball to the warning track in scope to compete in the relay The 23-year-old dominated gary’s Balazs Baji took a surprise between the barriers. one of sport’s great comeback right field with two outs and heats this time. the race, winning in 13.04 sec- bronze in 13.28. On this occasion, just as in stories by winning the world title McCann on base in the third. “We’ll see, we haven’t onds, a metre clear of the World record holder Aries Rio last year when he became two years after undergoing a Pittsburgh centre fielder done any baton changes as yet defending champion Sergey Merritt, of the US, who won the the first Jamaican man to win a kidney transplant. Andrew McCutchen made a with the guys, but I feel we are Shubenkov, the Russian who Olympic title in the same sta- sprint hurdles gold, he offered “It feels great to be back in beautiful diving grab on a ready,” the 11-time World was competing as an ‘author- dium five years ago, started speed with total control from London where I won Olympic sinking liner by Mikie Championships gold medal- ised neutral athlete’ with his strongly but faded into fifth place the gun. gold. The crowd greeted me very Mahtook in the sixth, and list said of their chances. country’s federation still banned in 13.31 seconds. It was a consummate dis- warmly. Of course, I am not David Freese made a spinning “I have talked to Julian from international athletics. It was a majestic triumph for play that demonstrated why he happy to be in lane nine but just stop on a grounder by Justin Forte (100m semi-finalist) a “He’s still a legend! Usain, McLeod, now the dominant force has lost just once all summer, being in the stadium is enough Upton in the seventh. little bit. I haven’t really talked brother, this is for you!” on the hurdles circuit, after a and only then when he suffered for me,” said the 32-year-old. In between, Williams was to the youngsters so we’ll see McLeod, who had celebrated by weekend of huge disappoint- a bout of cramp in a Diamond “I am not even meant to be in full control. He worked up when it comes to the baton running across the track after- ment for his sprint-loving League meeting in Paris. running, so I’m more happy to in the strike zone effectively changes, but I’m always wards to hug his mother in the compatriots as they failed to get With not a breath of wind in be here than not be here. I am and threw enough breaking excited to run relays and we London Stadium, told the crowd a 100m gold for the first time the stadium, McLeod was third- back on the world stage, that’s pitches to keep the Tigers off see what the guys are pre- afterwards. since 2005. fastest away from the blocks but the main thing.” balance. pared and ready to do.” Zimmermann was nearly Yohan Blake is the only as effective. His lone wobble other experienced member of over the first six innings came Jamaica’s sprint relay pool to in the second when he walked have won medals at the World IAAF’s behaviour ‘inhumane’: Gatlin’s agent Gregory Polanco with one out Championships or Olympics. and Cervelli doubled to the “Physically I am alright, Justin Gatlin runs gap in right-centre with two there is a little bit of pain, but London However, Gatlin’s agent Renaldo Nehe- on the track after outs. nothing a massage can’t cure, AFP miah, a former 110m hurdles world record winning the men’s In the seventh, Cervelli I’m taking it easy,” Bolt said of holder, was scathing about Coe’s remarks. 100m gold medal walked with two outs and Jaso his condition two days after thletics chief and the “I take offence to, with all respect, Lord at aChampionships — who broke out of an 0-for- finishing third despite clock- IAAF’s treatment of controversial 100 Coe,” said. on Saturday. 34 slump on Saturday night ing his season’s best-equalling Ametres world champion Justin Gatlin “I don’t condone doping but Justin Gat- — followed with a drive over 9.95 seconds in the 100m final. is ‘inhumane’ and ‘unsportsmanlike’, the ath- lin is not the poster child for it. the wall in right field for his “A little bit disappointed lete’s agent told the BBC in a blistering attack. “He’s done his time, he plays by the rules, sixth career pinch-hit homer. but such is life,” the eight-time British athletics legend Coe - a two-time the IAAF reinstated him. They said if you Juan Nicasio worked a Olympic gold medallist added 1500m Olympic champion -- had told the come back we should accept that. perfect ninth for his second of his bronze medal. BBC on Sunday two-time drugs cheat Gat- “So to put a narrative out that it’s just Jus- save in five opportunities. “I’ve done my best as lin’s victory in the sport’s most high profile tin Gatlin and he’s the bad guy, it’s really not Elsewhere, Eddie Rosario always; went out there and event in London, which was watched by over fair. doubled home the tying run gave my all and I’m just happy eight million viewers in Britain, was not the “It’s inhumane. It’s unsportsmanlike.” in the seventh inning and to be here and looking for- ‘perfect script’. Nehemiah, who won the 1984 Super Bowl scored the winning run on a ward to the 4x100,” added, the Gatlin, 35, had been loudly booed with the San Francisco 49ers, said Coe and balk as the Minnesota Twins 100m and 200m world record throughout the 100m rounds and the verbal the IAAF should be more gracious and accept defeated the Milwaukee holder who has helped abuse was ratcheted up a few notches when their rules allowed athletes like Gatlin to get Brewers 5-4 on Monday. Jamaica win the last four he won the final, denying Jamaican super- a chance at redeeming themselves. After Eduardo Escobar world 4x100 titles. star Usain Bolt a 12th world title in his last “Lord Coe’s a part of the IAAF who set drew a leadoff walk, Rosario Jamaica set the sprint individual final. The 60,000 plus spectators the rules, who set out the punishments, and hit a smash to right field that relay world record of 36.84 jeered Gatlin whilst chanting bronze medal when you serve the punishment you are sup- fooled Domingo Santana, seconds at the 2012 Olympics winner Bolt’s name as if he were the posed to be reinstated, which these athletes who took two steps in before at the London Stadium. champion. who have offended and abused some of these watching the ball sail over his Bolt also has two Olympic Coe - who had said prior to being elected rules have, and if you don’t want them in you head. Escobar scored to tie 4x100m titles. president of the International Association of should change the rules,” said Nehemiah. the game at 4. A third gold, from the 2008 Athletics Federations (IAAF) he felt ‘queasy’ “You don’t allow them in and then still Games in Beijing, had to be about dopers returning and winning titles -- condemn them,” said the 58-year-old. MLB RESULTS returned to the International remarked he wasn’t very excited about the Coe has always been a hardliner on dop- Olympic Committee after Bolt’s prospect of placing the gold medal around ing, believing second time offenders like Chicago Cubs 5 San Francisco 3 relay team mate Nesta Carter Gatlin’s neck. Gatlin should have life bans - however that Baltimore 6 LA Angels 2 was found guilty of doping. “I’m not eulogistic that someone who has view has fallen foul of the legal system when St. Louis 11 Kansas City 3 Carter has appealed to the served two bans has walked off with one of athletes have gone to court to challenge such Minnesota 5 Milwaukee 4 Cincinnati 11 San Diego 3

Court of Arbitration for Sport our glittering prizes,” said the 60-year-old. punishments.

Pittsburgh 3 Detroit 0 (CAS) asking that the Jamai- Washington 3 Miami 2 can team be reinstated. 22 SPORT WEDNESDAY 9 AUGUST 2017

Pakistan says India event Balanced England can win must be moved

Karachi Ashes series, says du Plessis AFP

Manchester akistani cricket author- Reuters ities yesterday called for an upcoming tour- England’s Moeen Ali P ngland have the right balance nament in India to be moved to beat Australia at this year’s celebrates taking the to a neutral venue, citing Ashes series, South Africa cap- of South Africa’s security fears in the South tain has said after Duanne Olivier and Asian country. his team’s 3-1 series defeat by winning the match with India is due to host the E Joe Root’s side. Stuart Broad. Under-19 Asia Cup in Novem- Hosts England completed their series If you have ber but the Pakistan Cricket victory with a 177-run win at Old Traf- assistance and Board (PCB) said it would ford on Monday in a keenly contested press for a relocation at an series. skill, which Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Australia will host England for five meeting this week. Tests in one of the world’s most famous England’s “We will discuss this mat- sporting rivalries with the first match ter in the ACC meeting in beginning on Nov. 23 in Brisbane. bowlers have, Colombo on Saturday and we England’s opening bowlers James you can target think that the event can be Anderson and Stuart Broad is expected to held at any other secure bear most of the burden of keeping Aus- Australia’s venue outside India and Paki- tralia’s batsmen in reins and the pace duo stan,” Najam Sethi, chairman received a lot of praise from du Plessis. line-up. of the PCB’s executive com- “If you have assistance and skill, mittee, said. which England’s bowlers have, you can Political tensions have target Australia’s batting line-up,” du Ples- prevented the neighbours sis told the BBC. from playing a bilateral series “They are relentless and our batting since 2007, apart from Paki- line-up wasn’t strong enough for them. stan’s tour to India in “Australia have fiery and quick bats- 2012-2013 when they played men so England will need to get through a short limited-overs series. them. (But) I think England could be Ashes his role in helping the England all-rounder markedly. “Saqqy has been amazing for the captain set the field. I would say I set Since then, sporting winners. They have a balanced team.” enjoy a record-breaking Test series me in terms of helping with my fields, the field a lot more throughout this series.” events have been marred by Du Plessis captained his side to a against South Africa. helping me understand my bowling a lot The South Africa series saw Ali, who perennial tensions between famous 2-1 series victory Down Under Ali, a 30-year-old off-spinner and more than I had done previously -- and showed his batting class with an unbeaten the arch-rivals. last year, prompting wholesale changes left-handed batsman, became the first I think that has been the biggest 75 in England’s second innings at In 2013 officials were in the Australian squad under Steve Smith. man in cricket history to score more than difference,” said Ali after bowling England Old Trafford, cement his position of fourth forced to move Women’s The 33-year-old said England would 250 runs and take 25 in a four- to a 177-run win in the fourth Test at Old in the ICC rankings for Test all-rounders. World Cup matches from have an even better chance of succeed- match Test series during the course of Trafford with more than a day to spare “I feel a lot more confident in my ability,” Mumbai to Cuttack over secu- ing if the wickets provide some assistance England’s 3-1 victory over the Proteas. on Monday. he said.“I feel like it was building... I had rity fears and protests over to the quicker bowlers. Ali has often been regarded, even by “Little things like that can make a big been batting well over the last year, and Pakistan’s participation. “I think it’s dependent on the condi- himself, as a “second spinner” when the difference,” explained Ali, who ended the the bowling was coming.” The same year, Pakistan tions,” du Plessis said. “I’ve always felt likes of Hampshire left-armer Liam Daw- match with two wickets in two balls for Root, whose first series as England athletes were expelled from Australia as a team play really well on flat son have been in the England side. an innings return of five for 69 after fin- captain ended with a decisive victory, has a hockey league following wickets, bouncy flat wickets, (but) if the But under the guidance of England ishing England’s victory in the third Test been delighted by Worcestershire star Ali’s protests. conditions allow a bit of seam and swing spin-bowling coach Saqlain, a former at The Oval with a hat-trick. progress. Pakistan blamed a delay and spin, then I think England will be Pakistan off-spinner and star of a Surrey “Before, I just bowled, (and) didn’t “He is definitely improving all the in visas for their non-partic- favourites.” side that won English County really think too much,” added Ali, who time,” said Root. “I hope it’s not just a one- ipation in the Junior World Meanwhile, Moeen Ali has paid trib- Championship titles at the turn of the started the series with a 10-wicket haul off series, and he can go on now and do Cup in India in 2016, while ute to the “amazing” Saqlain Mushtaq for century, Ali’s bowling has improved in England’s first Test win at Lord’s. “I let it again and again.” earlier this year their squash players had to opt out of an event in India due to visa glitches. The PCB has also initiated Bayliss warns win won’t legal action against India for Sreesanth eyes Cup not honouring a deal under which the two countries were paper over England cracks set to play six senior series Manchester between 2014-2023, pending AFP clearance from New Delhi. slot after ban lifted The first of those series ngland coach Trevor Bayliss (pictured below) has promised failed to materialise in 2015 a 3-1 Test series win over South Africa won’t “paper over the and the second, due in New Delhi banned with fellow Rajasthan E cracks” in his side’s fragile top order. November-December this AFP Royals players Ajit Chandila and Moeen Ali produced another dramatic finale, the off-spinner year, has also been axed. Ankeet Chavan. “It is a new life taking two wickets in two balls to finish off a 177-run victory in The PCB last week said it ndian pace bowler Shantha- for me. Even the biggest of crim- the fourth Test at Old Trafford on Monday for a return of five for has allocated Rs1bn ($10m) kumaran Sreesanth inals don’t go through what I or 69, after ending England’s third Test triumph at The Oval with a for the legal battle. I(pictured) said yesterday he my family went through. hat-trick. “The case will soon be was dreaming of playing in the “A small incident was por- A first home series success over South Africa in 19 years also filed with the ICC (Interna- 2019 World Cup after a court trayed in the wrong way in front gave Joe Root a win in his maiden campaign as England captain. tional Cricket Council) dispute lifted a life ban imposed over a of the world. Maybe that’s how But with just three Tests at home to the West Indies before Eng- committee,” said Shaharyar match-fixing scandal. the world works, I don’t know.” land begin the defence of the Ashes in Australia, major question Khan, who completed his The 34-year-old knows he He highlighted the case of remarks remain over several frontline batting positions. three-year tenure as PCB faces a tough battle after four Pakistani bowler Amir, who was England have tried 11 different players as an opening partner chairman, last week. years in the wilderness, but he found guilty of match-fixing in for Alastair Cook since former captain Andrew Strauss retired in said he was inspired by the suc- court and banned for five years 2012. cessful comeback of Pakistan’s in 2011. Durham left-hander Keaton Jennings, the latest in that lengthy from a fixing Amir made an early return list, endured a miserable series against his native South Africa, ban. in 2015 and helped Pakistan beat averaging just 15.87 in eight innings. The Kerala state high court India in the Champions Trophy Tom Westley made a promising start at No.3 without making lifted Sreesanth’s ban on Mon- final in June. a major score, while Dawid Malan’s initial impact at No.5 was day, saying the Board of Control “I just hope that happens in minimal. for Cricket in India (BCCI) had The BCCI has not made any my career too,” said “It’s always a good thing that you’re winning but we’re not not proved his role in the 2013 comment on the ruling. It could Sreesanth. papering over the cracks,” said Bayliss. “We know there are some Indian Premier League appeal to a national court, or While Sreesanth had denied spots which haven’t been cemented down and we’re still looking scandal. accept the verdict and let Sree- any role in the IPL match-fix- for those guys to prove their worth at this level,” the Australian Sreesanth said his first tar- santh return. ing, the Kerala court said he had added. get would be to play games for The 2013 IPL season was been a victim of his own silence Asked if England were now any clearer about the composi- Glenrothes in the Scottish mired in controversy after police in not defending himself at the tion of their top order than they had been at the start of the South league, and then Kerala state, as launched legal proceedings time. Africa series, Bayliss replied: “To be honest. no. he bids to fight back into the against several officials and “Complacency in the mat- “We’ve got a selection meeting later this week but I’m not going Indian team. three Rajasthan Royals players, ter on the part of Sreesanth is to speculate who might or might not be in the team. Obviously “My dream is to play 2019 including Sreesanth, for illegal really condemnable,” said the there’s a few spots that will be discussed.” World Cup for India,” Sreesanth betting and spot-fixing. judge in his ruling. Root, who along with Cook is told The Times of India in an All three were cleared of “To uphold the dignity of the the only player in the England top interview. “But I know it is next spot-fixing charges by a New game, he should have publicly five assured of their place, was left to impossible and it would be a Delhi court in 2015, but Sree- disapproved (of) the conduct of to reflect on a first series as skip- miracle if I play in that World santh’s life ban by the BCCI Jiju Janardanan, especially when per which included a huge England’s James Anderson Cup. But I have always believed remained in place until Mon- his name was dragged into the 340-run defeat in the second Test that miracles can happen. day’s ruling. controversy.” at Trent Bridge. celebrates taking the “There might be stiff com- Sreesanth, who was 13 short Janardanan was a friend of “It’s been very enjoyable the wicket of South Africa’s petition for fast bowlers’ spots of 100 Test wickets when he was Sreesanth who was accused of majority of the time,” he said. Heino Kuhn for 11 runs on now. But there was competition banned, said he was optimistic acting as a link between the “There was a week that wasn’t day 4 of the fourth Test even when I made my way into of being given official approval players and illegal bookies. quite as much fun as the other match at Old Trafford in the Indian team. I have always to play. “Anyhow, having suffered a three, but that is all part and par- Manchester on Monday. felt that competition gets the “Today I’m feeling much ban now almost for four years, cel of being a captain,” the England won the Test best out of me. I just hope that I better than how I felt when I got nothing further is required in Yorkshireman added. by 177 runs as Anderson can do justice to my talent on my maiden call-up to the Indian this matter,” the court “I learnt a lot throughout. It’s finished the series with 20 my comeback.” team,” said Sreesanth, who was concluded. the start of something.” wickets. WEDNESDAY 9 AUGUST 2017 SPORT 23

Stoke City midfielder Stephen Ireland in action Qatar Olympic Committee President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani speaks with Qatari para-athletes and Qatar Paralympic during his treatments at Aspetar specialised Committee officials during a felicitation ceremony in Doha yesterday. QOC President Sheikh Joaan honoured the Qatari national orthopaedic and sports medicine hospital in Qatar. para-athletes who participated in the 2017 World Para-Athletics Championships in London and Special Olympics World Winter The 30-year-old footballer broke his leg in two Games in March during the ceremony. places after an innocent collision on the training pitch with defender Dionatan Teixeira last year and will be soon declared fit to play following successful Sheikh Joaan honours Qatari para-athletes completion of his treatment plan at Aspetar.

The Peninsula championships to make Qatar’s such as the Rio 2016 Paralympic looking forward for more achieve- presence felt. The other athletes Games and stressed that these ments by this category in line with Stoke City’s Ireland heikh Joaan bin Hamad Al who were honoured included achievements are a continuation the QOC’s strategy and the ambi- Thani, President of the Qatar Hamad Jaber Al Behaih, Saud Al for the series of successes made by tions of the Qatar sports SOlympic Committee (QOC) Sulaiti, Khalifa Al Dosari and the Qatari sport. community,” Sheikh Joaan said. back in the game honoured the Qatari national para- Abdullah Al Manai who partici- “We in the state of Qatar pay a The felicitation ceremony was athletics team who participated in pated in the 2017 Special Olympics profound attention to the Paralym- attended by Jassim Al Buainain, the 2017 World Para-Athletics World Winter Games held in pic sports and in light of the Vice-President of the Qatar Para- thanks to Aspetar Championships held in London Austria. directives of the Emir H H Sheikh lympic Committee (QPC), Dr. recently. Qatar claimed two med- During the ceremony, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, we are Hassan Al Ansari, Secretary Gen- The Peninsula als at the championship. Joaan extended his thanks and committee to provide all the eral of the QPC, Abdulqader Al Abdulrahman Abdulqader won appreciation to the paralympians, required support to the Paralym- Mutawaa, Assistant Secretary Gen- toke City Midfielder Stephen Ireland completed his a the gold medal in the Men’s Shot expressing his pride at what was pic sports. We believe in the eral of the QPC and Ameer Al treatment plan at Aspetar specialised orthopaedic Put (F34) event while Sarah Masoud achieved at the last world Para- importance of this category as it Mullah, Executive Director of the Sand sports medicine hospital in Qatar, and will be claimed the silver medal in the Athletics championships held in demonstrate the spirit of determi- QPC in addition to the Directors of soon declared fit to play. Women’s Shot Put (F33) during the London and at the events before nation and challenge, so we are the QOC Departments. The 30-year-old footballer broke his leg in two places after an innocent collision on the training pitch with defender Dionatan Teixeira last year. Ireland was subse- quently ruled out from participating in competitive matches for more than 340 days. Speaking to Aspetar media team, Ireland said: “I had Qatar celebrates Doha 2019 been struggling to get back to full fitness and thought I had tried everything, but then I got to Aspetar. We weren’t sure I was going to make it back to full fitness. Luckily, my hopes have been answered and I am going back to my club fit and healthy. I can’t wait to start playing again.” IAAF Worlds in London “Luckily, thanks to Aspetar, I am in a position to return next season. I still have few things to achieve and a bit more training to do, but I am very close now. Hopefully, London it’s just a matter of weeks,” he said. The Peninsula On a separate note, Ireland shared his thoughts on Qatar’s preparations for the World Cup in 2022, saying: atar brought the world of athlet- “There is a lot of work underway but it’s a beautiful place ics together to celebrate Doha’s already. I’d love to return for training and also with my Qhosting of the 2019 IAAF World family. It’s very friendly and I have really enjoyed my Championships as the city prepares to time here, so, hopefully, I will return to watch some of receive the flag from London next the games.” week. Doha will be the next host of the Utilising an evidence-based approach, Aspetar’s expe- world’s third biggest sporting event, rienced practitioners aim to return patients to their bringing the World championships to pre-injury lifestyle as quickly and safely as possible. It the Middle East for the first time in has a proven track record of treating international ath- history. letes from the PGA, WTA, ATP, World leaders in track and Over 500 guests attended a recep- field, weightlifting and professional footballers from all tion hosted by the Doha 2019 major leagues, including the Premier League, Bundesliga Organising Committee at London’s and Ligue 1. breath-taking Sky Garden with the city’s stunning skyline as a backdrop. Attendees included Lord Sebastian Coe, President of the IAAF (International Barca pay tribute Association of Athletics Federations), members of the IAAF, athletics Mem- ber Federations from around the world, to Chapecoense in sponsors and Organising Committees. Speaking on behalf of the Doha 2019 Organising Committee, Vice-Pres- emotional friendly ident and Director General of Doha 2019 and Vice-President of the IAAF, Barcelona Dahlan Al Hamad, said: “Hosting ath- Reuters letics flagship event is a natural next step on our historic sporting journey. arcelona’s traditional curtain-raiser, the Joan Gam- We are committed to combining our per Trophy, took on emotional significance with the passion for athletics, our experience Bvisit on Monday of Chapecoense, the Brazilian team and knowledge of hosting major ath- who lost most of their playing and coaching staff in an air letics events, and our warm hospitality Guests attend a reception hosted by the Doha 2019 crash last year. and rich culture – to organise a unique, Championships will help to inspire The plane carrying Chapecoense to the Copa Suda- IAAF World Championships Organising Committee at memorable and highly successful more young girls from across the region mericana final, first leg against Atletico Nacional crashed London’s Sky Garden yesterday. Attendees included IAAF World Championships.” - not just to become future champions into mountains outside Medellin, Colombia on November “Hosting the World Championships but to participate at any level – as ath- President Lord Sebastian Coe, members of the IAAF, 28 after running out of fuel, killing 71 of the 77 people on in the Middle East for the first time in letes, coaches, officials or athletics Member Federations from around the world, board. history provides the opportunity to administrators. We want young girls sponsors and Organising Committees. INSET: The Qatari Barca invited Chapecoense to contest the traditional introduce athletics to new audiences to see that anything is possible and that delegation for the London 2017 IAAF Worlds poses for friendly, named after the club’s Swiss founder, 10 days and new markets, inspire new athletes they can achieve their dreams. We a picture during the reception. after the crash, offering half the proceeds from the game and capture the attention of new fans. hope to break down barriers and to the Brazilian club in addition to making a donation of The whole of the Doha 2019 team is change perceptions of Arab women in €250,000 to help the club’s reconstruction. fully committed to embracing this sport – and to support the growth and IAAF President Barca won 5-0 with goals from Gerard Deulofeu, Ser- unique opportunity - and we will be development of women’s athletics - Lord Sebastian gio Busquets, Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Denis working hard over the next two years and women’s sport in general - across Coe addressing Suarez. to ensure that we maximise the full the Middle East.” the gathering The players who survived the crash - Helio Neto, Jak- potential of our region’s first ever Guests at the reception were able during the son Follmann and Alan Ruschel - were given a separate World Championships.” to sample Qatar’s warm hospitality, reception hosted tribute as they walked out of the tunnel at the Nou Camp Speaking further about the impact unique culture, and history and herit- by the Doha after the teams emerged, while volunteers held up a heart- that the World Championships can age of athletics through Arabic 2019 IAAF World shaped banner in Chapecoense’s green and white have on the region, particularly with calligraphy workshops, a photo exhi- colours. Championships regards to female sport, Sheikha Asma bition, a falcon demonstration, henna “It’s an honour to receive Chapecoense for everything Organising Al Thani, Communications and Mar- painting and more. they have been through, they can count on our solidarity,” keting Director of Doha 2019 and the The flag handover from London to Committee. said Barca coach Ernesto Valverde. Qatar Olympic Committee, said: “It is Doha will take place with a ceremony in “Today is a special day, we are very happy to have you our ambition that showcasing Arab the London 2017 stadium following the here and we hope it’s an experience you never forget,” women in athletics through the World final session of athletics on August 13. added Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta.