THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2020 SPORTSPORT 07

TENNIS FOOTBALL I was nowhere near her level at 15 either Australian Open QNB Stars League: on the court or off the court, not even matches at Round 13 matches in close: Serena Williams on fellow American Melbourne Park Doha ACTION

Coco Gauff TODAY’S

Mo Farah to face Bekele in Big Half race in London

REUTERS — LONDON complete an Olympic Games and 10,000 metres, produced hat-trick in the 10,000m race a stunning 2:01:41 run in Berlin Four-time Olympic champion in Tokyo. last September but missed the Mo Farah will begin his Tokyo He has not featured on the marathon world record by two Four-time Olympic Games preparations by going track since the 2017 world seconds. I am really looking champion Mo Farah head-to-head with Kenenisa championships, but confirmed The 37-year-old believes forward to coming Bekele at the Big Half race in he will begin his season by con- the Big Half gives him an oppor- March, organisers said tinuing on the road at the Big tunity to compete against a back to the Big yesterday. Half on March 1. strong field before he takes on Half and kicking off Farah, who has won the “I am really looking forward world record holder Eliud Kip- my 2020 season. previous two editions of the half to coming back to the Big Half choge at April’s London Everyone knows how marathon event in London, and kicking off my 2020 Marathon. faces a tough battle to keep his season,” said Farah. “This will be my first time much I enjoy racing in streak intact against Ethiopian “Everyone knows how racing at the Big Half and it will London. It’s my home Bekele -- the second-fastest much I enjoy racing in London. be a good test for me as I city and it always marathon runner of all-time. It’s my home city and it always prepare for the London Mar- gives me a buzz to After competing as a mar- gives me a buzz to come back athon,” Bekele added. athon runner for the last two and race here.” Farah and Bekele will lead come back and race years, Farah has decided to Bekele, the world record the field that also includes here: Mo Farah return to the track in a bid to holder for both 5,000 metres Kenyan Marius Kipserem.

MLB notebook: Leonard outduels Doncic as Hall of Fame LA Clippers beat Mavericks adds Jeter and AGENCIES — LOS ANGELES three-pointer to make it Teammate JJ Barea - who Walker 105-98 and then added a tore his right Achilles tendon Kawhi Leonard won his duel three-pointer of his own last season - was distraught REUTERS — NEW YORK with Luka Doncic as the Los shortly afterwards to help as Powell was taken off the Angeles Clippers downed the the Clippers into a 108-100 court. Derek Jeter and Larry Walker were elected Dallas Mavericks 110-107 on lead. "It doesn’t get much to the Baseball Hall of Fame in balloting the road in their Western The only sour note for tougher than this, if it ends conducted by the Baseball Writers’ Asso- Conference clash. the Clippers was an apparent up being what we fear it ciation of America. Clippers star Leonard groin injury to Patrick Bev- might,” Carlisle said. Jeter received votes on 396 of the 397 and Mavs talisman Doncic erley which forced him off "But he will be back, ballots, falling one vote short of matching each finished with 36 points the court at half-time. regardless. There’s just some former New York Yankees team-mate after a see-saw battle at the In Beverley’s absence, guys you just know, they Mariano Rivera’s unanimous selection in American Airlines Travel Lou Williams came off the have a level of resource- 2019. Jeter, a shortstop, was named on 99.7 Center. bench to deliver a crucial 16 fulness, a level of fight in percent of the ballots. Leonard added 11 points while Shamet finished them. Barea’s one of them. Walker, an outfielder, received 76.6 rebounds and two assists with 18 points. Montrezl Powell’s another. He’ll be percent and was elected by six votes over while Doncic narrowly Harrell also added a double- back.” the minimum. The requirement for missed a triple-double with digit contribution with 12 The injury came on the induction is 75 percent. 10 rebounds and nine assists. points. same night 7-foot-3 forward --Free agent outfielder Marcell Ozuna The Clippers improved “We’re starting to feel Kristaps Porzingis returned signed a one-year, $18m contract with the to 31-13 with the win to good, we’re starting to after missing 10 games Atlanta Braves, the team announced. move into second place understand the best ways to because of a sore right knee. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution behind the Los Angeles play with each other,” said Powell averaged 13 points on reported that the Braves will make the two- Lakers in the standings. The Williams after what was a 71% shooting in the games time All-Star their everyday left fielder. Mavericks remain in fifth fourth straight victory for the Porzingis missed and was Atlanta had eight players start in left field with 27 wins and 16 defeats. Clippers. proving to be an effective last season, topped by Austin Riley (58 The Clippers appeared to “We’re happy with the sidekick. Both have been games) and including regular centre fielder have control of the contest progress we’re making and starters when healthy. Ronald Acuna Jr. (40 games) and regular after opening up an 11-point we’re starting to turn a Powell, in his sixth right fielder Nick Markakis (nine games). lead at halftime, 60-49. corner. We’re starting to feel season in the NBA, has --The Los Angeles City Council unan- But the Mavericks rallied comfortable with what eve- averaged nearly 10 points imously approved a resolution that asks strongly in the fourth rybody does on the floor and and six rebounds a game in commissioner Rob Manfred to strip the quarter, clawing their way what everybody brings to 39 previous games. He had Houston Astros and Boston Red Sox of their back from 90-82 down with the table at different points increased his scoring recent World Series titles and instead nine minutes remaining to in the game. We’re getting average over each of his first crown the Dodgers as the champions of level. there.” five seasons. the 2017 and 2018 seasons. A pair of Doncic free Meanwhile, Dallas Powell has played all but The Dodgers lost the 2017 World Series throws gave the Mavericks centre Dwight Powell sus- five of his 371 career games to the Astros, four games to three, and the their first lead of the second tained what the Mavericks for the Mavericks, arriving 2018 series to the Red Sox, four games to half with 5min 43sec fear is a "severe” injury to his from Boston in a five-player one. remaining, but Leonard took right Achilles tendon in a LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (right) shoots against trade in December 2014 that The resolution cited the MLB investi- control down the stretch to loss to the Los Angeles Dallas Mavericks forward Maxi Kleber during their NBA game. also brought point guard gation that showed the Astros used tech- close out the win for the Clippers. Rajon Rondo. Rondo’s style nology to steal signs in 2017 that led to the Clippers. Coach Rick Carlisle said the injury was "feared to be 2:57 left in the first quarter. clashed with Carlisle, but suspensions -- and subsequent firings -- Leonard produced a the club would wait on an severe.” He was helped to the locker Powell’s energy and produc- of Astros manager AJ Hinch and general sublime assist to set up MRI exam to determine the Powell went down with room while putting no tivity in the paint has made manager Jeff Luhnow. Landry Shamet for a extent of the injury, but said a non-contact injury with weight on his right leg. him a favorite of the coach. Vatrano’s hat-trick lifts Panthers over Blackhawks REUTERS — CHICAGO Lehner allowed four goals on the expense of their New York 26 shots. City rival. Frank Vatrano tallied his second Bruins 3, Golden Knights 2 Bailey scored the first of two career hat-trick, and the Florida David Krejci scored the Philadelphia Flyers Islanders power-play goals in Panthers held on for a 4-3 win game-winning goal midway left wing James van the final 6:25 of the first period, over the host Chicago Black- through the third period and Riemsdyk (centre) then had the primary assist on hawks. also had an assist, and Jaroslav pursues the puck tallies by Anthony Beauvillier Evgenii Dadonov also Halak finished with 27 saves as against Pittsburgh and Brock Nelson. Anders Lee scored for Florida, which won Boston rallied for a victory over Penguins defenceman scored in the second period for its sixth game in a row. The hat visiting Vegas. Jack Johnson (right) and the Islanders, and Thomas trick for Vatrano was his first Jeremy Lauzon, recalled goaltender Tristan Jarry Greiss stopped a season-high since December 18, 2015, when from Providence of the AHL, during their NHL game. 40 shots and improved to 5-0-1 he was a rookie with the Boston and Jake DeBrusk also scored in his career against the Bruins. goals for Boston, which Rangers. The victory capped an emo- improved to 17-2-9 at home Flyers 3, Penguins 0 tional evening for Panthers and increased its Atlantic James van Riemsdyk, Jake head coach Joel Quenneville, Division lead to eight points Voracek and Justin Braun each who won three Stanley Cup over the Tampa Bay Lightning scored a goal, and host Phila- championships with the Black- heading into the All-Star delphia won its final game hawks before he was fired early break. before the All-Star break, last season. Quenneville Mark Stone and Nicolas blanking Pittsburgh. received a standing ovation and Hague scored goals for Vegas, The Flyers improved to video tribute in his first return which lost for the sixth time in 17-4-4 at home while winning for to Chicago as an opposing its past seven games (1-5-1). the fourth time in five games. coach. Nate Schmidt added two assists, Philadelphia goaltender Brian Kirby Dach, Drake Caggiula and Marc-Andre Fleury finished abbreviated retirement as back. Martin Necas and Teuvo netminder Connor Hellebuyck Elliott made 19 saves on his way and Patrick Kane each scored with 34 saves while allowing at Carolina defeated Winnipeg in Teravainen also scored for the stopped 25 shots. to his first shutout of the season for Chicago, whose five-game least three goals for the seventh Raleigh, NC. Hurricanes. Islanders 4, Rangers 2 and the 39th of his career. winning streak ended. Panthers time in his past eight starts. Williams, a former team Patrik Laine scored in the Josh Bailey collected a Tristan Jarry stopped 27 goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky Hurricanes 4, Jets 1 , scored in the first and first period for Winnipeg, power-play goal and two assists shots for the Penguins, who had made 32 saves to earn his Justin Williams produced third periods. The right winger cutting his team’s deficit to 2-1. for a career-high three points been one of the hottest teams second win in as many nights. two goals in just his second had provided the winning tally Carolina goalie Petr Mrazek as the visiting Islanders snapped in the league with six wins in Blackhawks goaltender Robin game since returning from an in a shootout in his first game made 16 saves while Winnipeg a three-game losing streak at their previous seven games. 08 SPORT THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2020 Changes to Hall of Fame and a quick entry for Woods

AP — SAN DIEGO Dottie Pepper and Jane Geddes. TOKYO ROSE: Justin Rose confident he’ll be in Tokyo to the world, hopefully I’m looking “It would be fantastic if we The Hall of Fame originally returns to Torrey Pines at No. 8 defend his gold medal. But it’s north, not south. But 15 is the could field four guys,” Rose said. Tiger Woods won’t have to wait had an age limit of 40, which is in the world and looking in both not a given. key number.... You’d be unlucky LPGA SPONSORSHIP: until he’s 50 to enter the World why Vijay Singh, Ernie Els and directions. Tommy Fleetwood is at No. to be in the top 15 and not go to Women’s golf took some steps Golf Hall of Fame. Phil Mickelson were inducted He was No. 1 in the world at 10. Paul Casey is No. 18. Matt Tokyo.” toward greater financial oppor- The Hall of Fame has years ago. It later was moved to this time a year ago, and that’s Fitzpatrick is at No. 24, and a That’s the prospect facing tunities in the last week with announced changes to the cri- 50. The criteria also allow for where he wants to return. It’s resurgent Lee Westwood Americans, who currently have personal endorsements. teria and the selection process, anyone three years removed the other direction - as far down moved up to No. 29 with his nine players among the top 15. AT&T announced a deal starting with the age limit being from retirement, always vague as No. 15 in the world - that has victory in Abu Dhabi. But it’s early. There are with Maria Fassi of Mexico, who reduced from 50 to 45. for a sport in which no one ever his attention when it comes to “Team GB is a really strong three majors, The Players kept her LPGA Tour card after Players become eligible if really retires. the Olympics. team,” Rose said. “For me, the Championship, two World Golf playing only half of last season they are 45 in the year of the Also, the Veterans category Countries are limited to two 15 is the key mark. Obviously, Championships and two other because she wanted to finish induction ceremony. has been eliminated and players, with as many as four I’m trying to look at the world events that typically dish out big school at Arkansas. The next induction is in Lifetime Achievement is now only if they all are among the rankings and try to go up. I had ranking points (Riviera and the She is the first LPGA player 2021. Woods turns 45 in called “contributor.” top 15 in the world. Rose, the a little slip toward the end of last Memorial) before the cutoff to signed by AT&T - the only other January. Meanwhile, the selection leading player from Britain, is year, but having been No. 1 in qualify. golfer it has under such a con- “We believe these changes process no longer tract is Jordan Spieth, and even will enhance the Hall of Fame includes a that was a big deal because it in many ways and bring greater majority of golf Tiger Woods plays a tee shot on the 7th was the first personal attention to the most deserving administrators hole during Japan Skins golf competition endorsement for AT&T since it players at a time in their careers voting. at Accordia Golf Narashino Country Club in ended its contract with Woods when they are still competing Ten media this October 21, 2019, file photo. a month after the scandal in his at the highest level,” said Greg members and six personal life. McLaughlin, the CEO of the Hall of Famers “Sports need role models World Golf Foundation. will be part of the like Maria whose incredible Woods is a shoo-in. The cri- nominating com- skills on the course and char- teria include 15 victories on a mittee that acter beyond it continually player’s home tour or two narrows the list of elevate the game of golf for majors. Woods has 82 victories candidates to four women and for all athletes,” on the PGA Tour, along with five men, four women said Lori Lee, the global mar- on the European Tour and vic- and two contrib- keting officer for AT&T. tories on the Japan Golf Tour, utors. Eight media Meanwhile, Cisco Systems Asian Tour and PGA Tour of members join announced partnerships with Australasia. He also has those seven adminis- six players, divided evenly 15 majors. trators and four among the PGA Tour and LPGA Woods figures to have Hall of Famers in Tour. The San Jose-based company on the ballot. Also eli- the final selection company previously announced gible for the 2021 induction process. No more an endorsement deal with Mav- class are three-time major than four can be erick McNealy. champion Padraig Harrington, part of any Cisco signed as global brand Jim Furyk, Henrik Stenson and induction class, ambassadors Danielle Kang, Lee Westwood, and LPGA major and they must get Nelly Korda and Jessica Korda. champions Liselotte Neumann, 75% of the vote. On the PGA Tour, it signed Keith Mitchell, Viktor Hovland and Chez Reavie. Cisco’s also has a part- Good health is tantamount to good nership with the USGA and its play, particularly for Tiger Woods championships. AWARDS: The PGA of who turned 44 last month and has America for 30 years has hon- oured the media through its had more back surgeries (4) than Lifetime Achievement Award victories (3) in the last five years. in Journalism. Now it is paying tribute to the pictures. It has selected Leonard Kamsler to receive the inaugural PGA of America Lifetime Achievement Award in Photojournalism. Golf column: Expectations getting higher For 60 years, Kamsler pro- duced photos of everyone from Ben Hogan to Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus to Seve Balles- as American superstar Woods gets older teros. He worked primarily for Golf Magazine, and contributed AP — SAN DIEGO to Golf Digest, Golf World and many dark times brought on by so much four days as you get older,” Woods said. PARGolf. uncertainty, there is a practical side to “It’s just harder.” Woods wasn’t that old Rose opts for Kamsler worked the The expectations seem to get higher him. It’s never easy to win, no matter when he won his fifth Masters in April, Masters for 40 straight years even as Tiger Woods gets older. how often he once made it look that but given his health ordeals, he might through 2002, and left his mark Isn’t it supposed to be the other way way. feel that way. He didn’t fade - he’s Tiger precision over as the first to set up a remote- around? One of the more telling moments Woods, and they’re not - though he controlled camera behind the Of course, it doesn’t quell expecta- was at this tournament in 2008. Woods needed help for the first time in his 15 12th and 15th holes. He also tions when Woods is the Masters made birdie on the 18th hole of the major wins. power – just covered the PGA Championship champion. Just the image of that red tougher South Course at Torrey to open “I’ve been able to have won a few for nearly 20 years, along with shirt under a green jacket was enough with a 67. John Wood, at the time cad- tournaments since I’ve made my like Federer! 22 US Opens and the 1963 Ryder to believe he could win at least three dying for Hunter Mahan in the group comeback, and hopefully, I win some Cup. more majors to catch more,” he said. REUTERS — SAN DIEGO He will be honoured May 13 Jack Nicklaus. Tiger Woods of the US celebrates on the 18th hole Woods spoke on at the PGA Championship at And then there’s after winning the 2019 Masters at Augusta National the day Nicklaus turned Justin Rose acknowledges that he cannot Harding Park. Japan. That’s where Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, US, in this April 14, 80. Of Nicklaus’ record compete for distance off the tee with the Se Ri Pak of South Korea Woods returned from a 2019, file photo. 18 majors, what stands power hitters of the PGA Tour but the was selected to receive the Bob two-month break fol- out is the last one in Briton says his precision and game Jones Award, the highest lowing maintenance 1986 at the Masters. management make him a match for honour from the USGA, recog- surgery on his left knee One tale from that anyone -- just like tennis great Roger nizing individuals who demon- and went wire-to-wire week was a story by Federer. strate the spirit, character and in the Zozo Champi- Tom McCollister in the Rose, who won Olympic gold in Rio, respect that made Jones a leg- onship. It was his 82nd Atlanta Journal-Consti- said trying to match the ball speeds of endary figure. Pak inspired an victory on the PGA tution, who assessed some of his rivals would be bad for his entire nation. She won two Tour, tying the record his chances by writing health and his swing, and pointed to majors as a rookie in 1998 and that Sam Snead had to that “Nicklaus is gone, Federer as an example of how success went on to win 39 times and five himself for the previous done. He just doesn’t can be achieved without overpowering majors. Since then, South Korea 69 years. have the game an opponent. has emerged as the dominant Need more? Look anymore.” “I look at Roger Federer. There’s guys country in women’s golf. no further than Royal Only two players that serve at 135 (miles per hour), but he Pak will be honoured during Melbourne, where older than 46 had ever serves at 121 in the corners,” Rose told the US Open at Winged Foot. Woods split time as won a major, none reporters ahead of his title defence at the DIVOTS: The Augusta Presidents Cup captain since then. So it was a Farmers Insurance Open. National Women’s Amateur has and player, and he won surprise. Would anyone “He’s at the back end of his career, so invited 72 players from around all three matches he be surprised if Woods it’s incredibly effective,” he said of the the world, including seven of played. He was partic- repeated at Augusta Swiss, who is looking for a record- the top 10 and 13 of the top 20 ularly crisp on a course National? Probably not. extending 21st Grand Slam title at the from the World Amateur Golf that demanded Winning anywhere Australian Open. I’m not going to be a 185 Ranking. The tournament is precision. again to set a new ball speed guy and if I chase that it is held Wednesday and Thursday And now he returns standard of winning on going to hurt me and it’s going to hurt my at Champions Retreat, with a at Torrey Pines, where he has won eight ahead, stayed behind to watch and said, the PGA Tour? That’s practically a given, swing and body because you’ve got to practice round and final round times in his pro career, including the “He just won two tournaments with one isn’t it? reabsorb that force. But I can serve it 121 at Augusta National on the 2008 US Open. round.” Woods won by eight shots that Woods isn’t willing to look that far in the corners is kind of where I’m at. And Friday and Saturday before the Woods showed up yesterday week, and the US Open that summer. ahead. Even when his biggest challenge for me, that’s like 172, 175 ball speed. If I Masters. ** Alexandra Armas morning in the drizzle of a gray sky. He was 32, still five months away is time, there is no urgency about him. can carry the ball 300 (yards) in the air, was appointed CEO of the GolfTV, with which he has an from surgery to rebuild his left knee. He chose not to look back at time lost I can compete on any golf course against Ladies European Tour, endorsement deal, was there to doc- Winning is harder than ever, mainly when he was putting his personal life any player. So that’s kind of my reporting directly to the LPGA- ument Woods tying his shoes at his car because of his age. The competition is back together after his notorious benchmark.” LET joint board that is chaired and walking through the parking lot. younger and deeper than ever. Woods divorce, and then putting his body back Rose, 39, also said he was looking by LPGA commissioner Mike The next victory is for the record, if plays today alongside Collin Morikawa, together from leg and back injuries. forward to defending his Olympic title at Whan. Armas was executive not now then soon. who wasn’t born until Woods already In the decade after Woods won his the upcoming Tokyo Games. director of the LET from 2008- “Just trying to get to 83... I really had three PGA Tour victories. 14th major at Torrey Pines, he didn’t “It’s been a wonderful three and a half 2012. ** Martin Trainer, the only don’t think about it because I have to “When I was younger, I had more even play in 14 majors. And there was years to this point,” Rose said. “It’s been player to play in all four PGA think about all the things I need to do good days than bad, feeling-wise,” a time not long ago he wasn’t sure he definitely one of the highlights of my Tour events this year, has not to win the tournaments,” Woods said. Woods said. “Now at 44, I feel more bad would play again. career and something I’m very keen to made a 36-hole cut since the “There’s so many different shots I have days than I do good days. I think all of “Yes, there were a number of years try and defend. “I think Tokyo’s going to Texas Open a week before the to play, and strategy, and thinking my you at my age or older can relate to that. where I didn’t compete and didn’t play, be a wonderful host city. Obviously Masters. way around the golf course, that I’m I think that’s the hardest part about so those were some missed opportu- Japan’s a great golfing nation and I’m sure STAT OF THE WEEK: Lee more consumed in that.” being an older athlete. You see it all the nities,” he said. “But granted, I’m playing there’s going to be a lot of excitement and Westwood’s first and 25th Good health is tantamount to good time at the Masters.” again now so these are blessed oppor- from what I can tell, I think it’s going to victory on the European Tour play, particularly for a guy who turned He mentioned Fred Couples and tunities. I didn’t think I would have be well attended and well supported by were 24 years apart. 44 last month and has had more back Bernhard Langer, who were in the mix these.” the players.” Rose will be paired with FINAL WORD: “Love. That’s surgeries (4) than victories (3) in the last at Augusta National well beyond 50, but With opportunities come two other former world number ones -- all I need. And that’s what I’ve five years. And as much resiliency as faded at some point on the weekend. expectations. Jason Day and Jordan Spieth -- at the got.” - Jack Nicklaus when Woods has shown in returning from so “It’s hard to put it together for all Young or old, that doesn’t change. Farmers Insurance, which kicks off today. asked what we wanted for his 80th birthday. THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2020 SPORT 09

Hope Bushfire Pakistan’s Malik is 'focussed on Bash will offer relief: Tendulkar Bangladesh', not T20 World Cup IANS — MUMBAI

AP — ISLAMABAD Sachin Tendulkar yesterday hoped the charity match to be The most capped player in Twenty20 inter- played for Australia’s bushfire national cricket doesn’t want to think about victims will “offer some relief this year’s T20 World Cup because he wants to the people and wildlife in to focus on performing well for Pakistan in Australia”, saying that he chose his comeback series against Bangladesh. the right cause. The 37-year-old Shoaib Malik, who has “Chose the right team and played 111 T20s, has been recalled for the more importantly the right three-match series starting tomorrow. cause my friend. Hope that the He last played for Pakistan against South Bushfire Cricket Bash will offer Africa early last year. India’s Rohit Sharma some relief to the people and (104) is the only other player with more than wildlife in Australia,” Ten- 100 T20 international appearances. dulkar said in a tweet replying “My selection is for the Bangladesh to former Aussie captain Ricky series and I will try to avail whatever oppor- Ponting who had tagged him tunity I get,” Malik said yesterday. “World in a tweet saying: “How great Cup is too far, and I don’t set long-term is it to have @sachin_rt taking goals. part in the Bushfire Cricket “There are lots of youngsters in the team Bash and giving up his time to and they should be groomed - that’s my pri- come out for the cause. Picked ority. I don’t want to focus on the World the right team to coach too!” Cup because it is too far.” Tendulkar and West Indies Pakistan’s Mohammad Hafeez (right) and Shoaib Malik The selectors made a selection U-turn fast-bowling great Courtney look as they speak together during a training session and recalled Malik and 39-year-old Walsh will coach the Ponting at Gaddafi Cricket Stadium in Lahore ahead of the T20 Mohammad Hafeez to take on Bangladesh XI and Warne XI respectively after Pakistan could win only one out of its cricket match of a three-match series between Pakistan in the Bushfire Cricket Bash set nine completed T20s last year. and Bangladesh tomorrow. to be played on February 8. The heavy defeats included being swept The bushfire relief cricket 3-0 by a a second-string Sri Lanka squad at Lahore leagues around the world,” Malik said. “The goal should after getting positive feedback from his teammates. match is one of three headline late last year and a 2-0 loss in Australia. be how to give your best shot wherever you play, so The Pakistan government will deploy heavy acts on cricket’s day of giving Malik has scored 2,263 runs in T20 internationals it’s another opportunity for me (to play for Pakistan) security around Gaddafi Stadium and team hotels, as ‘The Big Appeal’ with Ten- at an average of 30.58 and has taken 28 . He and I will try to give my best shot.” it has for other tours since the decade-long absence dulkar and Walsh joining quit in 2015 as he wanted to focus on the Malik’s recent experience playing in the Bang- of international cricket ended last year. former Australian captain 50-over World Cup in 2019. He retired from ODI ladesh Premier League could be handy for Pakistan. “Only one (Bangladesh player) is not coming Ricky Ponting and Shane cricket after that. He scored 455 runs in 15 matches at an average of because of personal reasons,” Malik said. “I just like Warne as leaders of the two But Malik continued to press for his national recall 37.91 for eventual champions Rajshahi Royals. to request him that you are not coming this time, but sides. All match profits and in the T20 squad as he performed well in the domestic Bangladesh’s Mushfiqur Rahim pulled out of the next time please do come and see for yourself.” funds raised on the day will go leagues in Canada, the West Indies and Bangladesh. tour citing security concerns, but Malik hoped next The three matches will be played at Lahore to the Australian Red Cross “Whenever I do get an opportunity, I play in the time the wicketkeeper-batsman will come to Pakistan tomorrow, Saturday and Monday. Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund.

England’s Ollie Pope takes the catch to dismiss South Africa’s Rassie van der Dussen off the bowling of Joe Root during the third Mathews’ maiden Test between South Africa and England at St George’s Park, Port Elizabeth, South Africa, in this January 19, 2020, file photo. double century lifts SL in first Test

REUTERS —

Angelo Mathews scored a maiden Test double-century as Sri Lanka took control of the first Test against Zimbabwe at the close of day four at the Harare Sports Club yesterday. Mathews was unbeaten on 200 from 468 balls after batting for exactly 10 hours to lead the tourists to 515 for nine declared and a first innings lead of 157. Zimbabwe weathered a difficult period before the close to go to stumps on 30 without loss, with openers Prince Masvaure (15) and Brian Mudzinganyama (14) at the crease. The uncapped Mudz- inganyama is the sixth case of a concussion substitute in Test cricket since the rule was introduced on Aug. 1 last year as he replaced another debutant, Kevin Kasuza, who batted well for 63 in the first innings. Kasuza was struck on the helmet while fielding at short-leg on Tuesday and woke up on the fourth morning feeling dizzy. Zimbabwe made a like-for-like replacement in batsman Mudz- inganyama, who will feature in the rest of the match. England confident ahead of Sri Lanka resumed the fourth morning on 295 for four, but lost Dhananjaya de Silva (63) early on when he was caught by Masvaure off the bowling of debutant seamer Victor Nyauchi (3-69). Wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella (63) added 136 for the sixth 4th Test against South Africa with Mathews before he was trapped leg before wicket by JOHANNESBURG Pakistan-born spinning all-rounder Sikandar Raza (3-62). AFP — England’s Mark Wood plays a drum before the start of the days in the line-up. South African Mathews’ previous highest score was 160 against England in play as Joe Root looks on at St George’s Park, Port Elizabeth, captain Faf du Plessis said after 2014 and he now has 10 Test centuries. England, fresh from their South Africa, in this January 19, 2020, file photo. the third Test debacle that he Zimbabwe will need to bat for most of the final day to earn a crushing defeat of South Africa felt the difference between the draw in their first Test since November 2018. in the third Test, are looking teams was in the batting. The second Test will also be played at the Harare Sports Club, strong favourites to claim a “I think we are doing well starting on Jan 27. series-winning victory in the as a bowling unit but from a fourth and final match starting batting point of view England tomorrow. are showing us how to apply South Africa are still strug- yourself,” said Du Plessis. Stylish Quinton De Kock gling to come to terms with the That assessment seems gen- magnitude of the innings defeat erous towards the bowlers, who promises 'street-smart' in Port Elizabeth that handed have been unable to strike early England an unbeatable 2-1 lead enough to attack the likes of approach as ODI skipper in the series. Root and Stokes with a rela- Their bowling attack’s tively new ball. REUTERS — JOHANNESBURG failure to test England and the In the absence of Rabada, fragility of their batting line-up Anrich Nortje is the only South South African players can look forward to playing “street- were cruelly exposed over five African bowler with raw pace, smart” cricket when Quinton de Kock takes over as captain days at St George’s Park. although he lacks experience. next month. Barely three weeks ago it Beuran Hendricks, Rabada’s The wicketkeeper-batsman, who has replaced Faf du Plessis seemed that South African likely replacement, offers var- as skipper of the 50-over team, said his style of leadership will cricket had turned a corner iation as a left-arm bowler but be just like his unorthodox performances with the bat - where after a largely dismal 2019. at less than express pace, while tends to mix magical creativity with an occasional lack of But the home side’s victory Teams: South Africa (from): Faf du Plessis (captain), Dean Vernon Philander, who will be discipline. in the first Test proved illusory Elgar, Pieter Malan, Zubayr Hamza, Temba Bavuma, Rassie playing in his last Test, has “You always have plan A and plan B, and if they don’t work, and since then convincing wins van der Dussen, Keegan Petersen, Quinton de Kock, Vernon looked less effective as the I like to come up with things on the field,” the 27-year-old, by England in the second and Philander, Dwaine Pretorius, Andile Phehlukwayo, Keshav series has gone on. who will begin his captaincy with a three-match series against third Tests have seen the teams Maharaj, Anrich Nortje, Dane Paterson, Beuran Hendricks. Philander took four for 16 World Cup winners England, told reporters yesterday. go in different directions. England (likely): Joe Root (captain), Zak Crawley, Dom in the first innings at Centurion “In different situations, you have to make decisions on the Young players like Dom Sibley, Joe Denly, Ben Stokes, Ollie Pope, Jos Buttler (wkt), Sam but has taken only two wickets go, especially in the heat of everything. What you see out there Sibley, Ollie Pope and Dom Bess Curran, Dom Bess or Jofra Archer, Stuart Broad, Mark Wood. in four subsequent innings. dictates the way you play the game. I will do a little bit of have shown their quality for Umpires: Bruce Oxenford (AUS), Joel Wilson (WIS) TV England, by contrast, seem homework every now and again, but most of the time I will England, while more experi- umpire: Rod Tucker (AUS) : Andy Pycroft (ZIM) to have the ideal battery for the keep it pretty street-smart. Guys can end up learning from the enced players, notably world Wanderers ground. game without planning for things. That helps grow cricketer of the year Ben Stokes, Fast bowler Mark Wood cricketers.” have contributed to an The 11 that played in the first in the first three Tests, has bowled at intimidating pace in South Africa also host Australia in three ODIs in February impressive team effort. Test looked a solid combination reduced their already limited Port Elizabeth and he could be and March before travelling to India. De Kock’s progress as “We’re heading in the right but the side’s struggles since options while at the same time joined by the similarly speedy ODI captain will be closely watched as it could set him up as direction,” a confident England then mean that all 15 players in complicated the debate about star Jofra Archer if the latter has Du Plessis’ successor in the Test arena too. captain Joe Root said after the the squad for the Johannesburg racial transformation. recovered from a painful elbow Du Plessis has hinted he will quit as Test skipper after the win in Port Elizabeth. “We’ve Test at the Wanderers have at Batsman Temba Bavuma injury. mid-year series in West Indies. got a group of players who are least a theoretical chance of seems certain to play, probably The experienced Stuart “It’s not up to me whether they want me to be Test captain willing to learn and we’re very making the team. at the expense of the struggling Broad has had a solid series, or not, it’s entirely up to the coaches and Graeme (Smith) and clear on how we want to play.” The loss through suspension Zubayr Hamza, while all- while Sam Curran, another of all those guys,” added De Kock. South Africa, by contrast, of fast bowler Kagiso Rabada, rounder Andile Phehlukwayo England’s young guns, has are beset with uncertainty. the only black African to play could be a second black African picked up important wickets. 10 SPORT THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2020

AFP — MELBOURNE tank if you need it.” He faces a tougher assignment Ruthless Swiss master Roger Federer yesterday next against Australian John Millman, who beat Fired-up said he had “plenty left in the tank” as he kept him in four tough sets at the 2018 US Open. intact his 20-year record of reaching at least the “He’s fit like a fiddle. I’ve lost to him in the third round of the Australian Open after crushing past... he’s from this country so naturally also it’s Serb Filip Krajinovic. going to be different intensity. I think this is going The six-time champion first played at Mel- to be a good test for me.” Federer bourne Park in 2000 and has gone on to make the Federer raced through his opening service semi-finals or better on 14 occasions, with no exits game against Krajinovic then broke straightaway before round three. when the Serb fired a backhand long. The 38-year-old third seed dominated the 41st- The Swiss was in immaculate touch early and ranked Krajinovic 6-1, 6-4, 6-1 on Rod Laver Arena, moving well, exhibiting his full repertoire with some in ominous stretching his record over him to 4-0. deft drop shots and quality groundstrokes. Federer, who is bidding for a seventh title to It was a lightning start and he broke again then match Novak Djokovic’s record, and his first since held for 5-0 before the Serb finally got on the score- 2018, came into the tournament without playing board, only to see Federer serve out the first set a warm-up event but has nevertheless looked in just 20 minutes. touch at ominous. With a steely look in his eyes, he broke again “Very happy, been a great start to the season,” to take a 1-0 lead in the second set. But Krajinovic, he said as he moved a step closer to a 21st Grand who made two finals last year, regrouped and Slam title. “I feel really relaxed on court. I’ve trained managed to work a break point at 2-3, but couldn’t hard and you always hope it pays off.” convert. He got another opportunity at 3-4 and Australian Asked if he felt sorry for Krajinovic, he replied: this time didn’t waste it. “I do feel a bit sorry, but you’ve got to take Clearly irked, Federer broke straight back with advantage of it.” the Serb taking his frustrations out on his racquet, Over his two matches so far Federer has smashing it into the ground. dropped just 13 games, and admitted he preferred A double fault from the demoralised Krajinovic Open easy early encounters rather than tough battles handed Federer a break to go 1-0 ahead in the to preserve energy. third set and there was no way back against a man “I prefer this much more than overcooked. As operating in a different sphere. easy as it looks, there’s always the effort, trying Despite his age Federer remains a competitive to extend the lead,” he said. “Of course, it’s not force and won four singles titles last year. But he quite the same stress level if you’re down a set or failed to add another Grand Slam title with his Switzerland’s Roger Federer in action during his match against Serbia’s Filip Krajinovic at the a break or two sets, whatever it may be. I prefer it closest call coming in the Wimbledon final, where Australian Open in Melbourne yesterday. this way because you have always extra left in the he lost a five-set epic to Djokovic. Gauff says nerves won’t Day three highlights at the Australian Open REUTERS — MELBOURNE slow her against Osaka Australian Open contenders Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer recorded impressive wins to reach the third round at Melbourne Park yesterday. AFP — MELBOURNE Defending champion Djokovic made quick work of Japan’s Tatsuma Ito with a comfortable 6-1 6-4 6-2 victory, while 20-times Grand Slam winner Federer beat Filip Krajinovic of Serbia Coco Gauff is still learning to drive 6-1 6-4 6-1. and was scared when she went Federer came into the year’s first Grand Slam without playing any warm-up events but has on a highway -- but the dropped only 13 games in two matches to reach the third round for the 21st consecutive year. 15-year-old warned Naomi Osaka In the women’s draw, Serena Williams, who is bidding for a record-equalling 24th Grand she will not be overawed when Slam singles title, eased past Slovenian Tamara Zidansek 6-2 6-3. they clash tomorrow at the American teenage sensation Coco Gauff rallied from a set down to beat Sorana Cirstea 4-6 Australian Open. 6-3 7-5 in a thrilling encounter. The American prodigy cele- The 15-year-old Gauff, who beat seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams in the brated wildly after fighting back opening round, will face defending champion Naomi Osaka in the last 32. to defeat Romania’s Sorana Here are the highlights of the third day at the Australian Open, the first Grand Slam tour- Cirstea 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 yesterday and nament of the year, yesterday: set up a mouthwatering third- round meeting with the reigning FOGNINI OUTLASTS HOME HOPE THOMPSON champion. Italy’s Fabio Fognini, seeded 12th, was pushed to five sets for the second straight match as It is a repeat of the US Open he overcame home favourite Jordan Thompson 7-6(4) 6-1 3-6 4-6 7-6(4) in a match lasting four last year, where Japan’s Osaka -- hours and five minutes. a relative veteran at age 22 -- FEDERER COASTS INTO THIRD ROUND defeated the fast-rising Gauff in Third seed Roger Federer, chasing a record-extending 21st Grand Slam title, has reached straight sets. the third round at Melbourne Park for the 21st straight year with a 6-1 6-4 6-1 victory over Ser- On that occasion, Osaka con- bia’s Filip Krajinovic. soled a tearful Gauff with a hug after a crushing 6-3, 6-0 victory SERENA OVERCOMES ZIDANSEK in just 65 minutes. That was fol- Serena Williams stayed on course for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles crown lowed by tearful on-court inter- with a 6-2 6-3 win over Slovenian world number 70 Tamara Zidansek in their first career views, Osaka asking the teenager meeting. to join her with the microphone. Cori Gauff of the US reacts Williams, a seven-times Australian Open winner, fired seven aces and 25 winners to prevail She may not be 16 until March, during her match against in 78 minutes and will take on China’s 27th seed Wang Qiang next. but Gauff does not expect to Romania’s Sorana Cirstea in shrink again in the limelight. Melbourne yesterday. DIMITROV FELLED BY AMERICAN PAUL “I think I’ll be less nervous this Unseeded American Tommy Paul ended Bulgarian 18th seed Grigor Dimitrov’s hopes of time. I think US Open I was capturing his first Grand Slam title as the world nervous,” said Gauff, playing only her third Serbia’s Novak number 80 won 6-4 7-6(6) 3-6 6-7(3) 7-6(3) in four Grand Slam but touted as a long-term suc- Djokovic in action hours and 19 minutes. cessor to idol Serena Williams at the top of during his match women’s tennis. against Japan’s SCHOOL IS COOL FOR DJOKOVIC “It was my first time on Ashe (Arthur Ashe Tatsuma Ito AFTER BALI TRIP Stadium, centre court in New York). in Melbourne Novak Djokovic was in a relaxed mood following “We’re both familiar with each other’s yesterday. his win over Tatsuma Ito, talking about his off-season games. She plays really aggressive. This time trip to the Indonesian island of Bali where the Serb coming in I’m going to be more aggressive.” was left particularly impressed by a local school. Gauff, who stunned Venus Williams in her “What got me to go there with my wife is a green opener in Melbourne, repeating her win over school in Bali, a unique concept of education. That the seven-time Major winner at Wimbledon was interesting to us,” Djokovic told reporters. “For last year, said she has “nothing to lose”. the last couple years, we’ve known about the But it is a mantra that Gauff struggles to concept. We’ve been introduced to it by our friends carry into other parts of her life, especially as who have their kid in the school in Bali... we might a learner driver. have our children actually attend that concept in “Honestly, the first time I drove on a the near future.” highway was really nerve-wracking for me,” Gauff, who has two younger brothers, said. WOZNIACKI HAS SPECIAL MEMORIES OF “My older younger brother, he gives me ‘SWEET CAROLINE’ good criticism when it comes to driving. Caroline Wozniacki, who fought back to beat “They get mad when I drive slow. I don’t Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska, recalled her finest understand. I’m driving the speed limit, but moment in Melbourne when she captured her only that’s slow for them.” Grand Slam title and Neil Diamond’s ‘Sweet Caroline’ If she is slow and nervy on the roads, Gauff filled the air following her triumph. is anything but on the court. “I don’t know if I can count how many times I’ve The teenager was two points from defeat heard that song. It’s a special song for me, especially in the deciding set against 74th-ranked “What got me to go there with my here,” the Dane, who will retire after the tournament, Cirstea, who at 29 is nearly twice her age. told reporters. “It’s a great memory. It means a lot But Gauff hung in and grabbed the crucial wife is a green school in Bali, a after great wins like this that it gets played.” break in the 11th game of the third set, unique concept of education. That pumping her fists after burying a ferocious was interesting to us. For the last KVITOVA DOWNS BADOSA overhead smash. Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova “Come on!” she screamed several times, couple years, we’ve known about fired seven aces and 31 winners in a tight 7-5 7-5 thanking her court-side cheering squad after- the concept. We’ve been victory over Spain’s Paula Badosa in their first career wards for helping to pull her through. introduced to it by our friends who meeting. The clash between two of the most exciting young talents in tennis is a treat for have their kid in the school in Bali. CATCHING BARTY IS NOT OSAKA’S Australian Open fans and Osaka kept her end We might have our children IMMEDIATE PRIORITY of the bargain with a 6-2, 6-4 defeat of China’s Defending champion Naomi Osaka said after Zheng Saisai. actually attend that concept in the her win over Zheng Saisai that she was not giving The former world number one let her near future.” too much thought to reclaiming the world number frustrations boil over at one point, throwing one ranking, with top-ranked Ash Barty well in front and kicking her racquet. But Gauff had only Novak Djokovic said yesterday while of the Japanese third seed. praise for the way the Japanese treated her revealing details of his off-season trip to “Ash is like 2,000 points ahead of me and I have in New York last year. to defend this, I’m like yo, I’m going to drop out of “It just shows what being a competitor the Indonesian island of Bali where the the top 10 for real,” the 22-year-old said. really is. You might hate the person on the Serb was left particularly impressed court, but off the court you love them,” said by a local school. OSAKA STAVES OFF ZHENG CHALLENGE the American. “Sometimes when we’re on Defending champion Naomi Osaka fended off the court, we say things we don’t mean a strong comeback attempt from China’s Zheng because we have that mentality. Saisai, rallying from 4-2 down in the second set to “When it’s all said and done, we still look prevail 6-2 6-4 and reach the third round. at each other with respect.” THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2020 SPORT 11

Bayern Munich sign Newcastle and Arsenal right back Odriozola on grab draws as Villa win loan from Real Madrid AP — MUNICH The Bavarian powerhouse say the REUTERS — LONDON Manchester City’s Argentinian striker Sergio Aguero (right) scores Bayern Munich signed Spain 24-year-old Odriozola Newcastle United manager the opening goal past Sheffield right back Álvaro Odriozola signed a deal to the Steve Bruce described it as a United’s English goalkeeper Dean on loan from Real Madrid end of the season after wacky night of Premier League Henderson. yesterday to help ease its successfully passing a action after his side, and defensive worries after a medical examination. Arsenal, salvaged unlikely 2-2 spate of injuries. draws and Aston Villa grabbed The Bavarian power- a priceless last-gasp victory at house said the 24-year-old Odriozola’s arrival will Watford. Odriozola signed a deal to the free the French player to Manchester City cut the end of the season after suc- return to his usual position. advantage of leaders Liverpool cessfully passing a medical Madrid paid a reported to 13 points as Sergio Aguero examination. €30m ($33m) to sign Odri- struck for a 1-0 win at Sheffield “We decided to fulfil our ozola from Real Sociedad in United but the real excitement head coach Hansi Flick’s 2018, but the winger has was lower down the table. wish to strengthen the barely played since. Substitute Florian Lejeune defense and decided for He made only four league struck twice deep into stoppage Álvaro Odriozola,” Bayern appearances this season, time for Newcastle at Everton chairman Karl-Heinz Rum- with Dani Carvajal preferred as the hosts seemed to be menigge said. at right back. Madrid coach cruising to victory after Italian “We’re very happy with Zinedine Zidane gave the go- striker Moise Kean finally the transfer and thank the ahead for Odriozola’s opened his account for the club management at Real Madrid transfer on Tuesday. Sevilla and Dominic Calvert-Lewin for the very friendly and and Athletic Bilbao were also doubled the lead. cooperative talks.” reportedly interested. “It’s a wacky game that’s for Bayern defenders Niklas Odriozola has one goal in sure -- but it’s great,” Bruce, Süle, Lucas Hernández and four appearances for Spain. who was missing nine regulars Javi Martínez are out with Bayern is hoping to claw through injury, said. superb equaliser sent the away PREMIER LEAGUE RESULTS Mings was credited with a goal injuries and 23-year-old back a four-point deficit on “It just shows you shouldn’t fans into delirium. in the fifth minute of stoppage Benjamin Pavard - a center Bundesliga leader Leipzig to leave a game early.” To make matters worse for Aston Villa 2 (Luiz 68, Mings 90+5) Watford time to seal a come-from- back - had been filling in at claim a record-extending His words could have fourth-placed Chelsea, striker 1 (Deeney 38) behind 2-1 victory over a right back. eighth straight title. equally applied to an eventuful Abraham hobbled off the pitch Bournemouth 3 (H. Wilson 36, Gross 41-og, resurgent Watford to spark London derby at Stamford at the end. C. Wilson 74) Brighton 1 (Mooy 81) delirium amongst the Villa Park Bridge where Chelsea’s stut- It is only one win in six Chelsea 2 (Jorginho 28-pen, Azpilicueta 84) faithful. tering form continued as they games for Arteta since taking Arsenal 2 (Martinelli 63, Bellerin 87) Mings did not seem to know were held by 10-man Arsenal. over but his 10th-placed Crystal Palace 0 Southampton 2 (Redmond too much about it as a shot from Mexico's Hernandez Mikel Arteta’s visitors Arsenal side are displaying the 22, Armstrong 48) Ezri Konsa deflected off him played with 10 men from the spirit that has been lacking for Everton 2 (Kean 30, Calvert-Lewin 54) New- into the net. Troy Deeney had completes transfer for 26th minute after former much of the season. castle 2 (Lejeune 90+4, 90+5) put Watford in front but

Chelsea title winner David Luiz “The togetherness and lead- Sheffield United 0 Manchester City 1 Douglas Luiz equalised for Villa. was sent off for taking out ership they showed today, this Watford, who had taken 14 (Aguero 73) Los Angeles Galaxy Tammy Abraham and con- is what I wanted to see,” Arteta, points from their previous ceding a penalty that was whose side are level on 30 seven league games, slipped tucked away by Jorginho. points with Newcastle, Everton whose side have won only two back into the bottom three, AFP — LOS ANGELES Brazilian teenager Gabriel and Crystal Palace said. of their last six games, said. level on 23 points with Bourne- Martinelli equalised for a bat- Chelsea are six points clear “I am pleased to be fourth mouth and West Ham United Javier Hernandez (pictured) tling Arsenal side just past the of fifth-placed Manchester but we should have a lot more and six more than bottom club completed his long-awaited hour, only for Chelsea skipper United but a win for Ole Gunnar points with the way we have Norwich City who visit Tot- transfer to the Los Angeles Cesar Azpilicueta to restore Solskjaer’s side at home to been playing.” tenham Hotspur when the Galaxy, saying the lure of the hosts’ lead in the 84th Burnley would cut that Villa climb out of rele- Hammers are at third-placed playing regular football had minute. advantage in half. gation zone Leicester City. prompted his move to Major There was another twist “In football basic errors can Aston Villa climbed out of “It’s a big win, we know League Soccer. though as Hector Bellerin’s cost you points,” Lampard, the relegation zone as Tyrone there are big games to come The Mexican interna- and every game is tough,” Villa tional striker, who will Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa (right) celebrates boss Dean Smith said. reportedly become the after scoring their second goal with Bournemouth ended a highest paid player in MLS, Tyrone Mings. woeful run of four defeats and with Sports Illustrated saying the best teams in 450 minutes without a league he will earn $6m (€5.41m) a CONCACAF. goal as Harry Wilson and year, joins the Galaxy after a “We think he can be one Callum Wilson were both on the frustrating spell at Spanish of Major League Soccer’s best scoresheet in a 3-1 home win side Sevilla. attacking threats and help over a Brighton & Hove Albion After weeks of rumours our team in multiple ways.” side who are two points above linking the 31-year-old to a Hernandez will bolster a the drop zone. switch to MLS, the Galaxy Galaxy attack which begins Only four points separate announced the signing in a the new season missing the 19th-placed Watford fromn statement on the club’s star power of departed Burnley who are in 14th place. website. striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Southampton’s relegation “Javier has consistently The Mexican star heads fears have all but disappeared scored goals in top leagues to the MLS after a successful after they beat Crystal Palace throughout the world and has career in European club 2-0 at Selhurst Park to move been his country’s most suc- football which included stints into ninth place, three points cessful player over the last with Manchester United, Real behind Manchester United. decade,” Los Angeles Galaxy Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen Nathan Redmond and general manager Dennis te and West Ham, as well as Stuart Armstrong were on Kloese said. Sevilla. target as Southampton claimed “He is a competitor who Hernandez has scored a fourth straight away win. has proven success at the more than 200 goals for club Liverpool, who have two highest level and has scored and country throughout his games in hand, travel to Wol- the most goals ever of one of career. verhampton Wanderers.

Liverpool boss Klopp rules Coppa Italia: Napoli knock out out January transfer exits holders Lazio in quarter-final

REUTERS — LONDON REUTERS — ROME wide. Hysaj, who had been booked over the penalty, lunged Liverpool manager Juergen Napoli alleviated their crisis into Immobile and was given a Klopp has dismissed specu- when an early solo goal by second yellow card after only lation linking Xherdan Shaqiri Lorenzo Insigne (pictured) 19 minutes. with a loan move to Italy, saying gave them a 1-0 win over Yet six minutes later, Lazio the club has no intention of holders Lazio in their Coppa midfielder was letting any of their first-team Italia quarter-final on Tuesday, booked for a foul, then sent off players leave in the January which also featured a bizarre for protesting the decision. transfer window. penalty miss by “Lucas got the ball and Shaqiri has been restricted for the losers. should not have been booked to only 10 appearances for Liv- There were also two red but he is an experienced player erpool across all competitions cards in the first half hour and and should not have reacted the and Italian media has reported both sides hit the woodwork way he did,” said Lazio coach that AS Roma want the twice in the second half while Simone Inzaghi. 28-year-old Swiss playmaker Juergen Klopp Lazio had two goals disallowed It was not Immobile’s night on loan until the end of the as they exited the competition Insigne gave Napoli a as he had a goal disallowed for season. in a remarkable game. much-needed boost when he offside in the second half and However, Klopp underlined much everybody. We have to during Liverpool’s win against Lazio had won their last six collected the ball on the left, smashed a shot against the the importance of squad depth keep them for sorting our situ- Salzburg in the group stage of matches in all competitions skipped past his marker and crossbar in the 85th minute. as Liverpool seek to secure their ation and not the situation for the Champions League last while Napoli had lost four out side-footed a low shot past Lazio’s Manuel Lazzari also first league title in 30 years and different clubs.” month. of six -- including three at home and into hit the post with a deflected defend their Champions League Liverpool, currently 13 “Dejan has trained now -- since Gennaro Gattuso the far corner after two shot and crown in the second half of the points clear at the top of the since the start of the week,” replaced Carlo Ancelotti in minutes. turned in the rebound but it was season. table, are chasing a 14th con- Klopp said. “So, (these are his) December, plunging them into There was more drama as ruled out for offside with two “We had the majority of secutive league victory when first steps out on the pitch, it’s a crisis. Lazio won a penalty in the 10th minutes left. December and January with a they visit Wolverhampton good.” “We’ve been through an minute after Elseid Hysaj Napoli were also unlucky bench full of kids. Wonderful Wanderers on Thursday. James Milner, Naby Keita embarrassing period but today bundled over as Arkadiusz Milik headed kids, but kids,” Klopp told a Defender Dejan Lovren is and Shaqiri remain on the side- the lads have played a great but Immobile, ’s leading against the inside of the post news conference yesterday. in contention to return to the lines with minor knocks but match against the very good scorer with 23 goals, slipped as in the 70th minute and Mario “It’s not about Shaq or squad, having recovered from Klopp is confident the trio will team who are Lazio,” said he ran up to take the spot kick Rui curled an effort against the whatever, it’s about pretty a muscle injury sustained return to action soon. Gattuso. and scooped the ball harmlessly upright. SPORT SPORT | 07 SPORT | 11

Farah to face Liverpool bossss Bekele in Big Klopp rules ooutut Half race in January London transfer exitss THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2020 Qatar Total QSL: Al Rayyan look to seal top Open: Sale of tickets begins spot with win over Al Gharafa tomorrow FAWAD HUSSAIN — THE PENINSULA

Qatar's football giants Al THE PENINSULA — DOHA Rayyan can climb to the top of QNB Stars League (QSL) points With less than a month to the table for the first time this Qatar Total Open 2020, tennis season today, and coach Diego fans can now purchase their Aguirre doesn’t want to miss tickets as sales begin at City the chance. Center Mall and Doha Festival In what has been dubbed City Mall tomorrow (Friday), and the ‘clash between the heav- at the Villagio Mall on Sunday. yweights’, former champions Tickets can also be purchased Al Rayyan will visit Al Gharafa at the Khalifa International for their Round 13 game, Tennis & Squash Complex, the hoping to surpass points venue of the tournament, as well leaders Al Duhail with a as online by visiting www.qatart- victory over the ‘Cheetahs’. ennis.org. Al Rayyan (28 points) are The Qatar Total Open 2020, only two points behind Al the 18th edition, which will be Duhail, who face Al Arabi held from February 23 to 29, is tomorrow. featuring eight of the top-ten Al Gharafa are placed players, and four former fourth with 20 points, four champions. points adrift defending cham- World No.1 Ashleigh Barty pions Al Sadd. is topping the list which also has Aguirre-coached Al World No. 2 Karolina Pliskova Rayyan are returning to action and 2014 champion and World after their 1-4 defeat to No. 4 Simona Halep, 2019 Wim- eventual champions in the bledon semi-finalist and World Qatar Cup semi-final, but the No.5 Elina Svitolina, World No. prospects of topping the 6 and 2019 US Open champion league is a motivating factor Bianca Andreescu among for the ‘Lions’. others. “We go into this match In all, a total of 64 players, with an opportunity to go top including four qualifiers, will of the standings and thus stay feature in the singles event of the strongly in contention for the Al Rayyan's Sebastian Soria (centre) in action with his team-mates during a training session ahead of their QSL game against Al WTA Premier 5 tournament while title,” Aguirre said at a Gharafa. RIGHT: Al Rayyan's Rodrigo Tabata during a training session. 32 teams will slug it out in the doubles. pre-match press conference focus is now on the Al Gharafa his team was ready for the for six months. He is Tournament Director Saad Al QSL: ROUND 13 FIXTURES yesterday. match and we have to remain ‘important’ home game. undoubtedly a good addition Mohannadi said, “We are Today “The match against Al like that if we are to get a pos- “It is a good thing that the to the attack, but we must give delighted to commence the sales 4:30pm: Al Sailiya vs Al Ahli at Gharafa is considered by us as itive result,” he said. team trained last week with him the opportunity also to of tickets for this year’s edition Ahli Stadium one of the most important “This match has special full squad after the return of adapt to the team,” he added. of the Qatar Total Open as early 6:40pm:Al Gharafa vs Al Rayyan at games this season. They are importance, so we must be those who represented the “Al Rayyan, considering as possible. Considering the Al Gharafa Stadium one of the best teams and we 100 percent ready to win it. Qatar Olympic team and new their position in the standings caliber of stars on parade at the Tomorrow will bring out our best,” he After this match, we will have professional player Jonathan (second), are considered as tournament, we believe that it is 4:30pm: Qatar SC vs Al Wakrah at added. an important fixture at the Kodjia from Ivory Coast. We one of the strongest teams. going to be one of the best ever. Aguirre said his team left continental level. However, must improve our level and They are showing better levels We’ll like to encourage everyone Qatar SC Stadium Al Sadd defeat behind and will my focus is on the next game, results,” Jokanovic said than last season and are com- to get their tickets as soon as pos- 6:40pm:Al Arabi vs Al Duhail at take on Al Gharafa with full which is against Al Gharafa. yesterday. peting for the title. They have sible in order to enjoy the exciting Al Arabi Stadium confidence. We realise that the coming “In the next stage, we will a group of outstanding players, array of activities lined up for Saturday “I didn’t see that there was period we have important have a continuation of so the game is going to be dif- them at the tournament.” 4:30pm:Umm Salal vs Al Khor at any impact on my team after local and continental com- matches, which is a good thing ficult,” said Jokanovic. To purchase tickets and find Al Gharafa Stadium the loss against Al Sadd in the petitions,” said Al Rayyan for us and for all teams. We The match will kick off at all tournament information,

6:40pm:Al Sadd vs Al Shahania at Qatar Cup semi-final. We have coach. are expecting a lot from our 6:40pm after Al Sailiya and Al please visit www.qatartennis. Al Sadd Stadium fully forgotten that game. It is Meanwhile, Al Gharafa new recruit Kodjia, having Ahli square off in today’s first org. now a thing of the past. Our coach Slavisa Jokanovic said played with only one striker match at Ahli Stadium. Australian Open: Serena, Federer into third round

Switzerland’s Roger Federer in action during his match AFP — MELBOURNE her cool mid-match, hurling and where the balls were going. My serve against Serbia’s Filip Krajinovic kicking her racquet when she gave helped a lot to get me out of trouble,” yesterday. Fifteen-year-old prodigy Coco Gauff up a break in the second set. said the Serb. set up an Australian Open blockbuster “I was thinking that I really don’t Federer was barely detained by with defending champion Naomi want to play a third set this time,” Krajinovic, the world number 41, as Osaka yesterday, as a pumped-up explained Osaka, who is defending a he moved smoothly through in 92 Serena Williams took another step Grand Slam title for the second time. minutes in the night match on Rod towards a record-equalling 24th Former world number one Woz- Laver Arena. Grand Slam title. niacki, playing her final tournament In other results, Petra Kvitova, On a day when men’s seeds before retiring, came from behind in last year’s runner-up, came through tumbled, Serbia’s Novak Djokovic both sets for a 7-5, 7-5 win over 7-5, 7-5 against Paula Badosa of strode into the third round to be Dayana Yastremska of Ukraine. Spain, and China’s Zhang Shuai joined by Roger Federer, who dis- Serena Williams shouted at the ousted American Caty McNally 6-2, missed Filip Krajinovic 6-1, 6-4, 6-1. top of her voice during a testing 6-4. American teenager Gauff, second set against 70th-ranked Former US Open champion Marin showing a tenacity which is becoming Tamara Zidansek, before seeing off Cilic won a five-setter against French her trademark, clawed her way back break points to win 6-2, 6-3. seed Benoit Paire, and one-time semi- from a set down to beat the experi- “She was a really good fighter -- finalist Milos Raonic beat Chile’s enced Sorana Cirstea 4-6, 6-3, 7-5. she did not just let me win,” said Wil- Christian Garin in straights. Tennys Gauff, who screamed and liams, who can equal Margaret Sandgren, engulfed in controversy pumped her fists as she completed Court’s all-time mark of 24 Grand over his political views and right-wing her victory, said her “will to win” had Slams if she lifts the trophy. Earlier, links during his run to the 2018 got her through the tough second- Australia’s world number one Ash- quarter-finals, took the biggest scalp round match at a windswept Mel- leigh Barty raced through 6-1, 6-4 so far when he ousted eighth seed bourne Park. against Polona Hercog, buoying Matteo Berrettini in five sets. “My parents always told me you hopes of a first home winner since Sandgren’s fellow American can always come back -- no matter 1978. Tommy Paul also pulled off a five-set what the score is,” said Gauff, who “It was very different end to end, upset when he beat Bulgarian 18th beat seven-time Grand Slam I think the wind was a massive factor seed Grigor Dimitrov 6-4, 7-6 (8/6), champion Venus Williams in round particularly with the new ball,” she 3-6, 6-7 (3/7), 7-6 (10/3). It was very different end one. said. Djokovic also weathered the And Australia’s John Millman to end, I think the wind Gauff also beat Williams on her breeze -- which followed heavy rain further trimmed the number of high- was a massive factor Grand Slam debut last year at Wim- on Monday, and smog from bushfires ranked players when he ended the bledon, and in another quirk, she last week -- to beat Japanese campaign of Polish 31st seed Hubert particularly with the faced Osaka in the US Open third wildcard Tatsuma Ito 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 in Hurkacz. But Greek sixth seed Ste- new ball: Ashleigh Barty round, going down meekly in straight 95 minutes. fanos Tsitsipas was handed a slice sets. Japan’s Osaka, 22, beat China’s “They were tough conditions, of fortune when Philipp Kohlschreiber Zheng Saisai 6-2, 6-4 but briefly lost pretty windy and it was hard to know withdrew injured.