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THURSDAY 17 DECEMBER 2020 IOCI President Bach looks ahead to two ‘extraordinary’‘ Olympic years in Today we enjoy a very strong partnership in many areas. We area cooperating on promoting the Olympic values, to ensure safes sport and to put sport at the service of society.

IOC President Thomas Bach Sport |04

QATAR MEN'S SENIOR LEAGUE: Al Khor beat Sports Club 81-76, Al Sadd Sports Club beat Al Ahli 93-88

The victorious 2030 Bid Committee, led by Olympic Committee Chairman H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, arriving in Doha after attending the General Assembly in , , yesterday.

The ‘sports capital’ of the region to stage Asiad for second time Doha wins 2030 bid race

RIZWAN REHMAT THE PENINSULA Sheikh Jassim

The yesterday were meets Doha awarded to Doha after the Qatari capital - also known as the sports 2030 Bid capital of the region - won the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) vote in a bid race with Saudi candidate city . Committee The long-awaited announcement QNA – DOHA was made by OCA President Sheikh Ahmad Al Fahad Al of H H Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al after counting of votes was held at JW Thani, the Personal Representative Marriot Hotel in the Omani capital. of H H the Amir met with members “I can now announce... that the city of the working group of Doha 2030 who had the highest vote and will host Asian Games Bid Committee, led by 2030 is Doha,” the OCA President said the President of Qatar Olympic raising a placard showing Doha Committee H E Sheikh Joaan bin printed on it. Hamad Al Thani, upon their arrival This is will be the second time that at Doha International Airport on Doha will get to host the Asian Games. Wednesday evening following their In December 2006, Doha staged the participation in the meeting of the then ‘biggest and best’ Asian Games 39th General Assembly of the bringing together more than 10,000 Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), which athletes, officials and media folks for was held in the capital Muscat and the two-week gathering. announced the city of Doha the The OCA President yesterday also winner to host the 2030 Asian Games. confirmed Riyadh as the host city of Secretary of H H the Amir for the 2034 Asian Games, a decision that Investment Affairs H E Sheikh Doha 2030 Bid Committee Chairman H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani and Vice-Chairperson and CEO of Qatar will see the biggest multi-discipline Mohammed bin Hamad Al Thani, Foundation, H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, celebrate after 2030 Asian Games were awarded to Doha following sports event being hosted back-to- Minister of Culture and Sports H E back in west Asia. a vote during the Olympic Council of Asia General Assembly in Muscat, Oman, yesterday. Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali and a “I will be glad to have two Asian number of Their Excellencies high- Games editions staged in west Asia,” in the Bid Committee ranking officials concerned with a beaming Sheikh Ahmad said after conducted them- Our goal is simple. We want to see sports affairs in the State attended announcement. selves professionally. the meeting. The Doha 2030 Bid Committee, I also want to con- more Asian athletes in the future, on headed by Chairman H E Sheikh Joaan gratulate Riyadh who A new achievement for Qatari sports by hosting the future Olympic podiums. We want Asian Games in Doha 2030, thanks to our young team bin Hamad Al Thani, was present in will host the 2034 for this wonderful performance, and our congratulations that to be part of your national sports neighbourhood of . On Muscat where the entire OCA family Asian Games,” Sheikh to the colleagues in the Riyadh 2030 file for hosting the the outskirts Doha, Lusail Sports Arena joined in for the voting procedure that Joaan said. Games in 2034. history, not just ours. And we want to is an indoor sports venue located in was briefly halted because of technical Doha’s 2030 support you in the efforts to get new city Lusail. The venue, which glitches. campaign was cham- there: Doha 2030 Bid Committee occupies an area of 140,000sq m in “This achievement is not attributed pioned by Qatar’s size, hosted the 2015 Men’s World to me alone. There is a whole team World Champion and thethe lalastst 2200 years’ears’ wasas alsoalso lalauded.uded TheThe Chairman, H E Sheikh Joaan Handball Championship. Less than a that worked hard inside and outside hero Mutaz Barshim country’s transportation system was bin Hamad Al Thani mile away is the Lusail Shooting the committee. I thank His Highness who joined swimmer Nada Arakji deemed to be ‘state-of-the-art’ by the Range, a venue that hosted the the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad during yesterday’s final OCA Evaluation Committee that also shooting competitions of the 2006 Al Thani and everyone who supported presentations. praised the ‘high level of security in Asian Games. our bid file - from the Ministry of “It’s a great day. Doha staged the the country’. approach of all members of the com- Al Shaqab Arena is another venue Foreign Affairs and all ambassadors in a memorable Doha’s ‘zero emission public mittee’s team. I thank them very much that has wowed the global equestrian abroad,” Sheikh Joaan told media after show and now we can plan a better transport commitment for 2030 Asian for their efforts over the past few family for the last 10 years or more. the announcement. show,” a smiling Barshim said after Games’ also got a mention in the final months.” Yesterday it was confirmed that Al “It was a long and arduous cam- the announcement was made. “I con- report. Home to some of the world’s best Shaqab will host the season-opening paign. I give thanks to God that we will gratulate the Saudi team for being part Jassim Al Buenain, the CEO of the venues, Doha’s Asian Games journey competition of the 2021 Longines be hosting the Asian Games again. of the bid race. I give my thanks to Doha 2030 Bid Committee, yesterday is not only about sports events. The Global Champions Tour and the Global Qatar has become a sign of Asia’s con- Allah. We are happy with this result,” said: “What we saw today was the Qatari capital houses the world’s Champions League series. The world’s fidence,” he added. the tall high jumper added. harvest of what was built more than biggest indoor sports facility - the premier five-star show jumping com- When asked about the young The OCA’s Evaluation Committee 16 years ago. We all remember Doha Aspire Academy that sits next to the petitions will kick off in Doha from people in the Bid Committee, Sheikh also made a presentation detailing 2006 and its qualitative leap in the iconic Khalifa International Stadium March 4-6, 2021 at the Longines Arena Joaan said the youth is ‘the main their visits to Doha and Riyadh last balance of Qatari sport. Today we con- (KIS) and FINA-approved Hamad at Al Shaqab. reason for the success of the bid file’. month. tinue the march. We also seek to make Aquatic Complex. The 19th Asian Games will take “The ambition of the youth is high During the presentation, Doha’s Doha the gateway of the future for all The Aspetar Sports Medicine Hos- place in , capital of Zhejiang and they don’t know what impossible ‘one-city concept’ was roundly appre- Asian and international athletes. pital - which employees the world’s province in eastern , from Sep- is. I congratulate them for this victory ciated as was the fact that all venues “The Bid Committee - under best hands in dealing with sports tember 10-25, 2022 and the 20th Asian because they are the ones who worked exhibited in the bid file are ‘existing’. Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani - injuries and conducts rehab programs Games will be held in Aichi-, hard and they are the ones who Qatar’s ‘consistent contribution in was never satisfied with anything less for athletes and individuals seeking top- from September 19 to October brought us to where we are. Everyone Olympic and sports movement over than excellence and this was the notch medical care - is also in the 4, 2026. THURSDAY 17 DECEMBER 2020 SPORT 02 Doha 2030 to inspire next generation

FAWAD HUSSAIN THE PENINSULA I had the honour of competing in Doha served as a 15-year-old 2006 and the atmosphere of celebration volunteer when Doha hosted its first Asian Games and unity I experienced during the Games in 2006. It was that experience which inspired still lives with me. It was not my most the current superstar in winning two Olympic medals, as many World Championship successful Asian Games, but it was one titles and two Asian Games gold medals. that provides some of my fondest “Being a volunteer at the Asian Games 2006 memories. Since then I have seen how was amazing. I remember telling my parents that Doha has made significant investment into one day I will compete in the Asia Games. This dream propelled me to win the medals in sport and hosted hundreds of sports Olympics, World Championships and the Asian events, training camps and more. With all Games,” Barshim said yesterday at Olympic this experience and expertise I have no Council of Asia (OCA) 39th General Assembly doubt that Doha will host an even better that elected Doha as host for the 2030 Asian Games in Muscat yesterday. Asian Games in 2030 to the one I In 2006, Doha staged the then ‘best and experienced in 2006. But one thing that biggest Asian Games', that saw participation of will be the same will be that all of Asia is over 10,000 athletes, officials and media offi- made to feel valued and welcomed: cials for the two-week gathering. Qatar's high jump world champion Mutaz Essa Barshim Like Barshim, many other athletes were Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah, and double Olympian Nada Arkaji during yesterday's Qatar's shooting star inspired with the hosting of the event and it will 39th General Assembly of the Olympic Council of Asia. be no different when the Asian Games will return to Doha in 2030. Qatar’s rally star Nasser Al Attiyah, who has Qatari athlete also won Asian Games gold medal and Olympic 2006. But one thing that will be the same will be Ibrahim, is also among thehe memmembers.bers. TThehe Owaab Barrow bronze medal in shooting, said hosting the Asian that all of Asia is made to feel valued and presence of the bright starss in the ororganisingganising Games will leave a lasting legacy. welcomed.” team will play a key role inn ensuringenn sus ring “I had the honour of competing in Doha 2006 The Doha 2030 has already announced a that Doha 2030 truly rep- and the atmosphere of celebration and unity I Youth Working Group comprising upcoming ath- resents Asia’s young people, experienced during the Games still lives with me. letes, who will work for the success of the Doha and will inspire the nextxt It was not my most successful Asian Games, but 2030. The group includes Qatar’s gold medal- generation. it was one that provides some of my fondest lists in athletics from the Buenos Aires 2018 YOG, “We will work with thee YYouthououthth WWorkingoorrkinng memories. Since then I have seen how Doha has Owab Barro (110m hurdles) and Abdulaziz Group to further develop ourr plansplalanns forfoorr thethee DohaDohha made significant investment into sport and hosted Mohammed (200m) as well as the Young Ambas- 2030 Youth Camp. The Youththh CCampaammp wwiwillllll bbee ann hundreds of sports events, training camps and sador from Buenos Aires 2018 YOG Nada Arkaji, important legacy project of DohaDoohaa 2030203030 andanand willwwiill more. With all this experience and expertise I and the Nanjing 2014 YOG, Hannah Albadr. contribute to ensuring the Gamesmes ppromotesrorommoottees ununitynitity have no doubt that Doha will host an even better Former Junior Weightlifting World and inclusivity across Asia,”,” saidsaaid DDohaoohha 220203003300 Asian Games in 2030 to the one I experienced in Champion and Rio 2016 Olympian, Fares CEO Jassim Rashid Al Buenain.ainn.

Qatari star Abdullah Al Tamimi

Qatari shooter Reem Al Sharshani THURSDAY 17 DECEMBER 2020 SPORT 03 04 SPORT THURSDAY 17 DECEMBER 2020 THURSDAY 17 DECEMBER 2020 SPORT 05

 XXI 2030 Doha confident of bigger, better show DOHA

FAWAD HUSSAIN Action during THE PENINSULA the ANOC Beach Our entire country has been Games at Katara. XX 2026 (QOC) President working so hard for the past  H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani Aichi- raised his hands in jubilation as Doha was twenty years, building a truly Nagoya announced as the winner of the bid race world-class sporting infrastructure to host the 2030 Asian Games. The and, along with it, our people’s impromptu gesture to celebrate the bid race win in Muscat yesterday also under- exceptional expertise - Yes for  XIX 2022 lined Doha’s unparalleled dominance in 2030 but also for what lies  the region when it comes to organising Hangzhou mega sports events. beyond: Doha 2030 Doha is now known as the world’s Bid Committee fastest growing sports destination after years of careful planning by the Qatari Chairman XVIII 2018 leadership to host top draw events. Be it a H E Sheikh Joaan -  regional, continental or a global compe-  The President of the International Olympic Committee, Thomas tition, the Gulf state organises events like bin Hamad Bach, addressing the Olympic Committee of Asia General Assembly never before, setting new benchmarks with Al Thani yesterday. its innovative preparations. In 2030, the Qatari capital - which has state-of-the- art venues and vast experience of hosting Riders in action  XVII 2014 IOC President Bach major competitions - will be in a position during the 15th to organise the Asian Games in an unprec- Asian Games in Doha  edented way. in this file photo. The Asian Games 2030 will be a block- Qatar’s iconic Khalifa International Stadium. looks ahead to buster, and knowing that the Olympic A replica of proposed Doha 2030 Athletes Village. Council of Asia (OCA) family trusted Qatar’s XVI 2010 bid and voted for Doha 2030 over Riyadh  two ‘extraordinary’ 2030 at the 39th General Assembly held  at the JW Marriott Hotel in Muscat, yes- terday. Qatar’s love of sports comes from Olympic years in Asia the top and has the full support of the Amir H H Sheikh . XV 2006 Sports is among the national priorities  OCA – MUSCAT opportunities it presents,” he here. said. “I don’t think there is any question in  DOHA The President of the Interna- “So let us seize these oppor- this room as to the level of dedication and tional Olympic Committee, tunities like we are used to in support the Qatari government gives to Thomas Bach, thanked the sport, giving it our best and sport. Sport is in our DNA and it is truly Olympic Council of Asia for embracing change.” part of our national identity,” said Min- programme called 21 Project Legacy. It The Doha 2030 will XIV 2002  being “reliable partners” of the President Bach spoke highly ister of Foreign Affairs, H E Sheikh was announced by Al Buenain last month Olympic movement during his of the preparations for Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, following OCA Evaluation Committee’s begin preparations for MAJOR SPORT EVENTS IN QATAR video message at the 39th OCA 2020, saying he could “almost while addressing to the General Assembly visit to Doha.  General Assembly in Muscat, feel the Olympic spirit already in Muscat yesterday. Andrey Kryukov, who headed OCA to host their second Oman yesterday. now” in the new Olympic Doha 2030 Chairman Sheikh Joaan Evaluation Committee’s trips to Riyadh Asian Games – after 2004 - Asian Handball Championships President Bach said that Stadium and in the Olympic said: “Our entire country has been working and Doha, said yesterday: “It is clear that 2004 - ITTF World Team Championships XIII 1998 Asia was “taking centre stage in Village on his most recent visit so hard for the past twenty years, building Doha is at a higher level of readiness and the memorable  the sporting world” by hosting to Japan. He described the a truly world-class sporting infrastructure certainly has the necessary experience to 2005 - Asian Basketball Championships the next two editions of the facilites as “fantastic” and said and, along with it, our people’s exceptional host the Games at any time.” hosting of the 2006 2005 - World Weightlifting Championships Olympic Games – Tokyo 2020 the Tokyo Olympics would be expertise - Yes for 2030 but also for what Kryukov’s team visited a number of  next summer and the “a celebration of solidarity and lies beyond.” venues during their three-day visit to Doha Games – under the 2005 - 2022 Winter Olympics – and resilience of humankind”. including the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022’s 2006 - Asian Sailing Championships the 19th Asian Games in To assist the National venues besides experiencing a ride on the programme called 21 XII 1994  Preparations to begin under 21 2006 - Asian Games Hangzhou, China in September Olympic Committees and the Project Legacy city’s Metro network, and were ‘highly Project Legacy. 2022. athletes in their preparations impressed’. 2008 - Asian Indoor Athletics Championships “I can tell you that the prep- for Tokyo 2020 and beyond, Apart from the world class sports infra- arations in Beijing for 2022 are President Bach said the IOC’s Doha 2030 CEO Jassim bin Rashid Al structure, Doha also boasts a thriving arts 2008 - Asian Youth Championships  going extremely well,” he said. Olympic Solidarity funding arm Buenain vowed top facilities for all par- and culture scene with countless museums, 2008 - Asian Optimist Sailing Championships “I would like to thank our had responded quickly and pos- ticularly the athletes. He said ‘the spec- galleries and public art installations that XI 1990 Chinese partners and friends for itively. He said the Olympic Sol- tacular Athletes Village will have 2,000 showcase traditional and contemporary 2009 - Asian Fencing Championships  all the efforts they are under- idarity budget for the 2021- units and a capacity for 15,000 people - Qatari and Asian culture. 2009 - FIVB Club World Championships Beijing taking to make these Games 2024 cycle had increased by 16 with the potential to accommodate up to This fusion of cultures and the old and 2009 - ISF World successful and safe at the same per cent, and that the direct 18,000.’ new is a hallmark of Doha. From fine-  time. support for athletes and support The Doha 2030 will begin prepara- dining to family-style, Doha’s thousands 2010 - IAAF World Indoor Championships “I would also like to thank for NOCs had both increased by tions for to host their second Asian of restaurants and cafes serve local and 2010 - ISAF World Junior 470 Sailing C’ships OCA and all the National 25 per cent compared to the Games – after the memorable hosting international cuisines that will cater for X 1986  Olympic Committees for being previous cycle. The total of the 2006 Games – under the the tastes of the whole OCA family. 2011 - Asian Football Cup such reliable partners on our Olympic Solidarity budget for 2011 - Arab Games side as we look forward to these 2021-24 is $590m. two extraordinary Olympic The IOC President also 2012 - Asian Shooting Championships  years ahead. spoke of the increased cooper- 2014 - FINA Short Course World Championships “Today we enjoy a very ation between the IOC and the  IX 1982 strong partnership in many World Health Organisation and 2015 - IHF Handball World Championships New areas. We are cooperating on United Nations during this dif- 2015 - Doha 2015 IPC Athletics World Championships promoting the Olympic ficult year and praised the NOCs values, to ensure safe sport and athletes for continuing to 2015 - World Amateur Boxing Championships and to put sport at the service spread the Olympic spirit and 2015 - World Robot Olympiad  of society.” values through a series of online VIII 1978 President Bach said the activities and initiatives. 2016 - UCI Road Cycling World Championships  Olympic movement could build These initiatives had 2018 - FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships Bangkok on these solid foundations and included an IOC digital workout 2019 - IAAF World Championships make a great contribution to the that had attracted half a billion recovery of the world following participants, said the IOC 2019 - FIFA Club World Cup  the global coronavirus crisis. President. 2020 - FIFA Club World Cup “We are happy to have “In this Olympic spirit I wish  VII 1974 reliable partners like OCA at our you fruitful discussions and a 2022 - FIFA World Cup side as we face not only the very successful General 2023 - FINA World Championships many challenges of this crisis Assembly. See you in Tokyo, but also and even more so the Japan, Asia,” he concluded. Athletes of Qatar parade into the stadium during the Opening Ceremony of the 15th Asian Games Doha 2006 at the Khalifa International Stadium in this December 1, 2006 file photo. 2024 - FINA Masters  VI 1970  Bangkok

 V 1966 Bangkok

IV 1962  Jakarta

 III 1958  Tokyo

II 1954  

I 1951 

 06 SPORT THURSDAY 17 DECEMBER 2020

Vodafone Sainz emerges winner after is official sponsor of thrilling stage of Hail Baja 2 QOC Beach THE PENINSULA — DOHA Nasser Saleh Games Al Attiyah Toyota’s Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah starting the THE PENINSULA — DOHA and Matthieu Baumel delivered last stage. a text book performance to INSET: Al Vodafone Qatar has part- secure what they thought would Attiyah nered with the Qatar be their respective FIA Drivers’ in action Olympic Committee and Co-drivers’ titles, after a yesterday. (QOC) for the second time thrilling finale to the 2020 FIA this year to support the World Cup for Cross-Country inaugural QOC Beach Bajas at Hail Baja 2 yesterday. Games 2020 as the But a protest was placed by Official Sponsor. Vladimir Vasilyev’s VRT Team This follows Vodafone’s and the outcome of the event was sponsorship of the QOC decided by the FIA Stewards late 2020 Padel Tournament yesterday evening. in October. Time penalties for excess Set to get underway speed were imposed on four from 20 December 2020 drivers inside the top eight and to 2 January 2021 at the the two-minutes handed to Al , participants, Attiyah was enough to overturn both male and female, the 54-seconds he had earned will be competing in four beach sports- football, handball, and Time penalties for excess speed 3X3 basketball. were imposed on four drivers Beach Games enthu- inside the top eight and the siasts have been invited two-minutes handed to Al Attiyah by the QOC to register was enough to overturn the their interest in partici- pating in the various 54-seconds he had earned over games via the QOC’s Sainz and the win was duly over Sainz and the win was duly stage-opening Spaniard’s lead, to claim a 54-second win, not compulsory. It was good website and the social handed to the Spaniard, even handed to the Spaniard, even knowing that outright victory realising at the time that the practice for the Dakar.” media accounts. though he too was also awarded though he too was also awarded should give him the Drivers’ result would be overturned Peterhansel added: “It was a This latest part- a one-minute punishment. title. Over the day’s short desert hours later. very fast stage, especially at the nership with QOC is a a one-minute punishment. Worse Worse still for Al Attiyah, was section of 180.38km to the Sainz’s X-raid team-mate beginning and then it was a bit continuation of Vodafone still for Al Attiyah, was the loss of the loss of seven points – the north-west of Hail, 33 seconds Stéphane Peterhansel settled more technical. It was good to do Qatar’s support of the seven points – the difference difference between winning of Sainz’s overnight lead was for third place on the podium these days of racing here. This is country’s sports sector between winning and finishing and finishing second - that eroded after 69km and 46 in the new Mini John Cooper the first time that we did the nav- and community events second - that gifted the world gifted the world title to Vasilyev seconds had gone by 95km. Works Buggies, the Frenchman igation in the desert together.” that promote health and and saw Al Attiyah’s Toyota After 121km, 68 seconds of taking the second fastest time Saudi driver Yazeed Al fitness. title to Vasilyev and saw Al team-mate Tom Colsoul tie for the advantage had been on the day’s stage. Rajhi was third on the day in The Company, espe- Attiyah’s Toyota team-mate Tom the co-drivers’ crown with devoured but Al-Attiyah was Sainz said: “It was a difficult his Overdrive Toyota and cially their network, has Colsoul tie for the co-drivers’ Baumel, before the latter took running out of kilometres to place to find a waypoint. That’s reached the finish in fourth already had a significant crown with Baumel, before the it unofficially on a tie-break. overturn the deficit. As Sainz all. It was a mistake in the road place, while Poland’s Jakub role in several of the latter took it unofficially on a Trailing overnight leaders agonizingly lost vital seconds book. I don’t want to make any Przygonski recovered strongly country’s highly suc- Carlos Sainz and Lucas Cruz by trying to find a tricky late way- excuses, but I think we should from a disappointing Hail Baja cessful local and interna- tie-break. 2min 20sec at the restart, Al- point, the Toyota driver stormed have cameras in the cars at all 1 to confirm fifth overall on the tional sporting events . Attiyah began to eat into the through the closing kilometres times. This should be second event. Captain Kohli promises less niggle, ’s Ferguson more respect in series out for up to six weeks AFP — ADELAIDE always been,” he said. “There’s choices,” he added. The new, combination of playing a lot of going to be tension, there’s friendlier, attitude has been IPL together, Australia with stress fracture captain Virat Kohli going to be stress, there’s going evident during their limited- changing their approach to an (pictured) vowed a “high- to be emotions flaring every overs series leading into the extent and also just the way things REUTERS — AUCKLAND voltage” Test series against now and then, but I don’t four-Test showdown, with have panned out this year. fierce rivals Australia yesterday foresee anything getting per- players laughing and joking on “Everyone is just grateful for New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson will be out of action but also predicted a more sonal anymore.” the field. the opportunity to be back on for between four and six weeks with a partial stress fracture to respectful era between the “I think all of us are getting Kohli said it was partly due the field.” his back but does not need surgery, the country’s cricket board cricketing powers, saying smarter and a few more years to the , India clinched their maiden said yesterday. grudgesgrudges andand tensionstensions were intointo our careers so we wanwantt ttoo wherewhere AustraliansAustralians anandd IIndiansnd series in Australia in 2018-19, Ferguson’s injury came to light after the recent “pointless”.“pointless”. makem ake better often playplay on the same team,te triumphing 2-1, but they face a series against West Indies and the 29-year-old has already been The superstarsuperstar batsman, who but also the coronavirus ppan- tougher assignment this time. ruled out of the upcoming T20 and Test series against , hashas a reputation as one ooff tthehe demicdemic tthathat rockedrocked sportsport this Not only is Steve Smith which starts in Auckland tomorrow. sport’s most aggressive players,players, year. back, having missed that series “We’re all really feeling for Lockie,” New Zealand coach said this week’s opening Test in “I think this year while banned for ball-tam- Gary Stead said in a statement https://www.nzc.nz/news-items/ AdelaideAdelaide would be hihighlyghly comcom-- has made ppeoplee pering, but India face their first ferguson-up-for-the-fight-as-partial-stress-fracture-con- petitive, bbutut wouwouldld not get realiserealise a llotot ooff tthingsh pink-ball Test against Australia, firmed. personal.personal. whichwhich mightmight not and only their second ever. “Injuries are certainly part of our sport, but to get something “It’s“It’s goinggoing to be hihigh-gh- hahaveve bbeeneen nnec- In contrast, Australia has like this when you’re at the very top of your game is especially voltagevoltage cricket because we have essaryessary in the past, played seven day-nighters and disappointing. qualityquality playersplayers on both sides where yoyouu hold won them all. “The pace and skill he’s been able to consistently produce and they are all hungry and grudgesgrudges or you “A pink-ball Test is probably has made him one of the very best white ball bowlers in the eagereager to perform... havehave unnec-unn going to be a bit more chal- world and a huge asset. it’s definitelydefinitely essaryessary tensionstens lenging in terms of conditions “Lockie has a great attitude and I know he’s up for the fight going to be betweenbetween teteams and how the ball moves around so he’ll get stuck into the rehab and we’re still hopeful he may asas compet-compet- oror individuals,individ in the evening,” said Kohli. get back on the park at the back end of summer.” itiveitive as iitt whichwhich isis abso-a “For us, it’s about being able New Zealand will play three T20s and two Tests against has lutelylute to adapt to different condi- Pakistan, after which they face Australia at home in a five-match pointless,”pointless he tions... you can take inspiration T20 series starting in late February. said.said. from the past but I don’t think The ‘Black Caps’ then host in a limited-overs “It“It ccould that guarantees anything and series comprising three one-day internationals and three T20s be a we have to stay in the present.” that ends on March 28.

India have enough batting to win Stallions win without Kohli, Rohit: Tendulkar

REUTERS — MUMBAI run-scorer in Tests, said. He’s aggressive but he’s in “Rohit wasn’t there in control,” he said. Sachin Tendulkar (pictured) New Zealand also, it’s not the “I’ve seen him closely, is confident India have the first time that we are trav- he’s someone who wants to batting depth and talent to elling without Rohit. learn, who wants to grasp as overcome the absences of “Nothing is guaranteed... many things as possible. I Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli sometimes players get find him a very sincere, in their four-Test series injured and are ruled out of hardworking player.” against Australia. a tournament or an entirentire Skipper Virat Kohli will series. One has to be prpre-e- fly home after this week’s pared to play withouthout series opener in Adelaide for whoever that individuall iis.s. the birth of his first child and “Eventually it is aboutout injured opening batsman the team, not aboutout Rohit will miss at least the individuals.” first two Tests. Tendulkar, who cap-ap- However, Tendulkar said tained India in 25 Tests beforeefore that India still have enough standing down to focus oonn his runs in the side to com- batting, backed fellow Mumbaimbai pensate and deliver a second cricketer Ajinkya Rahanene to successive series victory in successfully step into Kohli’sohli’s ’ players and officials celebrate with the trophy after winning the inaugural Lanka Premier Australia following their shoes as skipper for thee last League title defeating Gladiators in the final at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium in maiden triumph in 2018. three Tests. , , yesterday. Stallions made 188-6 and restricted Gladiators to 135-9 to register 53-run “Our batting has enough “I’ve seen Ajinkya lead win. Pakistan all-rounder was declared man of the final for his all-round show of 46 runs and depth,” the 47-year-old, who earlier. He’s quite a calm,alm, two wickets. PICTURE COURTESY: SLC remains the most prolific composed guy, balancedd guy. THURSDAY 17 DECEMBER 2020 SPORT 07 Organisers complete preparations for Al Rayyan Venue inauguration Amir Cup: Stage set for title clash

QNA — DOHA Al Sadd's preparations for the final match, in a football match under these players during with an emphasis on the emer- circumstances. The Organising Committee training gency plans, pointing out that Al Musleh said that the expe- yesterday said that preparations session there will be eight tents for rience of implementing this pro- were complete to stage the Amir yesterday security checks, 5 of which will tocol will have great repercus- Cup final, that will mark the ahead of the be allocated to the fans. sions all over the world, and it will inauguration of the Al Rayyan Amir Cup final. The security plan was push many countries to apply it Venue - the fourth FIFA World developed in a way that guar- in the future in light of the Coro- Cup Qatar 2022 stadium. antees the security and safety navirus crisis, especially since the Head of marketing at the of everyone when entering and COVID-19 pandemic may con- committee, Khalid Al Kuwari exiting the stadium, ruling out tinue until the mid-2021, and that said in a press conference held that the security measures life should continue, and eve- yesterday that 95 percent of would cause traffic jams in the ryone must coexist with this pan- tickets were sold, saying that area surrounding the stadium. demic in all ways. priority was given to fans of Al The Advisor to the Minister He added that all those Sadd and Al Arabi by allocating of Public Health for Sports and who will attend the final tickets to the two clubs. After Emergency Affairs Dr. Abdul- match will undergo a corona- that process was completed, wahab Al Musleh, explained that virus test, and the tests has access to tickets was granted to the Amir Cup final match at the already begun today for the all football fans so they can get opening ceremony of Al Rayyan fans in three locations, which to enjoy the match. Venue will witness a special are Al Sadd Club, Al Arabi Al Kuwari said that the medical protocol that has not Club, and the National Con- tickets reservation and sales been applied in any sporting vention Center, as well as con- process, which are awarded event held during the period of ducting tests for those who after carrying out a COVID-19 the COVID-19 pandemic so far, have contracted the disease test on the ticket holders, did indicating that Qatar will be the before, and those who will not face any issues. He praised first country in the world to prove negative will attend the the role played by both Al Arabi allow the entry of so many fans match in a designated place. and Al Sadd for marketing the tickets of the final, which will highlighted that demand for said that holding the final and also see the inauguration of Al tickets continues to increase, inaugurating the fourth stadium beIN Sports to broadcast historic event Rayyan Venue. maintaining that the tests were of World Cup 2022 sends a He added that ensuring all carried out to ensure the safety message to the World that Qatar fans in the stadium had carried of everyone attending. will be ready to host the worlds THE PENINSULA — DOHA the home of the FIFA World team goalkeeper Younis out a COVID-19 test did not Head of the facility at the biggest footballing event two Cup Qatar 2022. Ahmad and former Al Rayyan, affect the sales process. He committees, Hassan Al Kuwari years from now. beIN Media Group, the global beIN Sports premium Al Gharrafa and ex FC Bar- Al Kuwari said at the press sports and entertainment channel beIN Sports celona player , conference that preparations are broadcaster and its flagship HD1 will dedicate the among others. running smoothly to hold the final sports channel beIN Sports is December 18 to show high- The 48th edition of the that will coincide with the set to host an exciting line up lights of previous FIFA World Amir Cup will see two Qatari countrys national day celebra- of milestones, matches and Cup finals and documentaries heavyweights Al Arabi and Al tions. He added that Al Rayyan exclusive documentaries on on the road to Qatar 2022. A Sadd go head-to-head for a stadium is now ready to host the its English and Arabic channels special program “The World chance to win the coveted fans. He also said that the final will across the Middle East and is Our Stadium” will also be trophy – as well as a chance serve as a good opportunity to test North Africa (MENA) – with broadcast – dedicated to the to qualify for the 2021 AFC the stadium and the fans the 2020 Amir of unveiling of the 4th 2022 FIFA Champions League. experience. final, the opening of the state- World Cup stadium. beIN Previously postponed due He encouraged the fans to of-the-art Al Rayyan Venue Sports’ News channel will also to the COVID-19 pandemic, come early, gates will open and the AFC Champions broadcast the latest news and the 2020 Amir Cup final will three hours before the match, league final all scheduled on stories from the Al Rayyan take place tomorrow at 19:00 and to adhere to all health pre- the global sports channel. Stadium as well as latest news Mecca Time (GMT +3) live on cautions required. He also said beIN Sports will continue and reactions from across the beIN Sports HD11 for English that food and drinks will not be its world class coverage of the country. and beIN Sports HD1 for allowed inside the stadium. best sports competitions with Exclusive interviews will Arabic – with the Arabic studio For his part, head of the the 2020 Amir Cup final and also be broadcast on the global starting at 17:30 Mecca Time facility at the Amir Cup Organ- the AFC Champions League sports channel with former featuring beIN analysts ising Committee, Major final – all set to be hosted in players and legends such as Al Mohammad Aboutrika and Abdullah Al Ghanem touched the remarkable city of Doha, Rayyan and Qatar national Mubarak Mustafa. Officials display Al Sadd (left) and Al Arabi kits for the Amir Cup final. on the plans for security Excitement builds ahead of Qatar 2022 board AFC Champions League final meeting reviews

THE PENINSULA — DOHA prizes in world football. Perse- polis were made to work hard key achievements The 2020 AFC Champions for their spot in the Final after a League is set for a thrilling finale slow start in the Group Stage in as 2018 runners-up Persepolis February, but hit the ground QNA — DOHA shifted to delivering a unique FC from the Islamic Republic of running after the West restart in fan experience in 2022. look to create history with September to finish as leaders The board of the FIFA World “We are very excited to host their maiden Continental club of Group C. Cup Qatar 2022 reviewed two major tournaments in 2021, crown when they face an The Iranian giants grew during a virtual meeting namely the FIFA Club World inspired Ulsan Hyundai FC, stronger with each battle, reg- yesterday the key achieve- Cup and FIFA Arab Cup. Both eyeing their second title istering impressive victories ments and milestones within these events will offer fans a following their 2012 success in over 2011 AFC Champions the ongoing preparation to host glimpse of our plans for 2022 what promises to be a classic League winners and home the first edition of the FIFA and serve as key opportunities battle at the favourites Al Sadd and World Cup in the to test our operational plans on Saturday at 3pm. ’s Pakhtakor in the and the Middle East. and infrastructure readiness to Adding to the excitement, knockouts before displaying The meeting was held just ensure we deliver a unique and the Asian Football Confederation nerves of steel to overcome three days before the inaugu- remarkable World Cup,” he (AFC) and Qatar Football Asso- ’s Al Nassr on ration of another FIFA World added. ciation (QFA) are in discussions penalties in a nail-biting Cup stadium, the Al Rayyan Colin Smith, Managing to allow local spectators into the Semi-final to seal their second venue, which will host the Amir Director of Q22, said: “ stadium, with further details on Final appearance in three Cup final on Qatar National strong and continued com- the match day protocols for fans years. Day. mitment has been key to to be finalised in the coming Meanwhile, Ulsan Hyundai H E Q22 Chairman and Sec- making steady progress and days. have hardly put a foot wrong in retary General of the Supreme ensuring that with two years to Increasing the stakes, this their route to the final, having Committee for Delivery & go the FIFA World Cup project year’s final will be the first time scored more than any other team Legacy (SC) Hassan Al Thawadi is well on track to being a the ’s most sought after in the tournament with 21 goals, (pictured) said: “Despite the resounding success." club prize will be decided over Ulsan Hyundai FC’s Junior Negao (left) celebrates with team-mate winning every match since enormous challenges presented The inauguration of Al a single leg since 2012 and the Bjorn Johnsen after scoring their second goal against Vissel Kobe restarting their campaign. by the ongoing COVID-19 pan- Rayyan Venue follows the suc- first decider since 2010 to be during their AFC Champions League semi-final at Jassim Bin Hamad The 2012 Asian champions demic, major strides have con- cessful launch of Khalifa Inter- staged in a neutral venue, as part Stadium on December 13. eliminated Melbourne Victory tinued to be made during 2020 national, Al Janoub and Edu- of the AFC’s commitment to and Beijing FC in the knockouts in preparation for the first FIFA cation City. Al Bayt has also ensure the health and well being COVID-19 pandemic.The West both equally determined before an outstanding comeback World Cup in the Middle East been completed and will be of all players, teams and match enticing final looks set to be a to cement their place in Asian saw them overcome this sea- and Arab world.” inaugurated in the near future. officials and all stakeholders memorable affair between Asia’s football history and claim one son’s debutants Vissel Kobe in “AtAt the start of the yearyear,, we Al Thumama, Ras Abu Aboud against the backdrop of the best clubs from the East and of the richest Continental club extra-time on Sunday. markedrked 1,000 days to go until and Lusail are in the final stagesstage kick-off,k-off, followed swiftly by the ofof constructionconstruction andand wiwilll digitalital launch of Education be delivereddelivered wellwel Cityy Stadium. The two-year in advanceadvance ofo India bids to host 2027 Asian Cup countdownuntdown wwasas celebratedcelebrated thethe tour-tour in NNovemberovember andand nonoww we nament,n ament AFP — NEW DELHI documents would be sent to the and the 2021 under-17 women’s not only host it but to partic- are gearing up for the inainau-u- whichwhich kikicksck Asian Football Confederation World Cup. India is also con- ipate in it meaningfully,” Patel gurationation of the fourth tourtour-- offoff on 221 India yesterday joined a five- this week. sidering a bid for the 2032 told reporters. nament-readyment-ready stadium, Al NovemberNovembe nation race to host the 2027 Iran and Uzbekistan have Olympics. Sports minister Kiren Rijiju Rayyanyyan Venue,” Al 2022.2022. Asian Cup, the continent’s also said they will bid. AIFF president Praful Patel said hosting the Asian Cup Thawadiawadi said.said. biggest football tournament, as India, once called a said the Asian Cup bid would would be “a huge milestone” for NasserNasser Al Khater,Khater, it steps up efforts to secure “sleeping giant” of football by further the country’s repu- the cricket-mad country of 1.3 CEOO of Q22,Q22, said: international sporting recog- former FIFA president Sepp tation as an emerging football billion people. “Withith overover 90%90% nition. Blatter, has stepped up its nation. India’s men are currently of aallll tourtour-- Saudi Arabia and Qatar interest in hosting international “We look at it positively, ranked 104th in FIFA’s world namentment infrinfra-a- have already officially entered events in recent years. we look at it aggressively. I rankings but the launch of the structureructur e the fray and an All India It put on the 2017 under-17 have no doubt in my mind that Indian Super League has completed,mpleted, Football Federation (AIFF) men’s World Cup and will host India as a footballing nation brought increased international ourr ffocusocus spokesman said the country’s the 2022 women’s Asian Cup by 2027 should be ready to attention to the country. hasas 08 SPORT THURSDAY 17 DECEMBER 2020