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THURSDAY 24 SEPTEMBER 2020 FormulaF one: Star Hamilton set to equal SSchumacher’s record tally of 91 wins ItI just doesn't seem real. I never thought that I would beb here, that's for sure, says Lewis Hamilton who is one win awaya from matching the record 91 win mark.

Lewis Hamilton Sport |10

NBA: (WEST. CONF. FINALS) Game 3: Denver Nuggets 114, Los Angeles Lakers 106 (Murray 28 pts, Grant 26) * Lakers lead series 2-1

Al Sadd look to top group We are improving from one match to the next. We with win over Sepahan have done well in the group, and we have a FAWAD HUSSAIN chance to finish THE PENINSULA on top. Xavi Hernandez giants Al Sadd will miss playmaker Al Sadd and influential Pedro Miguel today but there will be no shortage of confidence in the home camp when they take on ’s Sepahan in their final group game. After advancing to the Round of 16 following a draw Confident Al Duhail with Al Nassr, the Wolves - coached by Xavi Hernandez - are now eyeing to finish on top aim for a place in of Group D by replacing the Saudi side, which will meet UAE’s Al Ain in their last game knockout stage of the first stage at the same time. Al Sadd players in action CHINTHANA WASALA the qualification to the next Al Sadd, wrapped up prep- during a practice session THE PENINSULA stage of the competition. We arations for today’s clash with yesterday, ahead of their will work hard to be in the top a training session last evening AFC Champions League Qatar national champions Al place of the group. I am happy after the entire squad was Group D match against Duhail will be looking to seal with the players’ performance tested negative for COVID-19. Iran’s Sepahan. a berth in the knockout stage during our match against “We are happy to qualify for of the AFC Champions League after our unfortunate the Round of 16. We want to when they face Saudi side Al loss against Sharjah. And a finish well in the group stage, are really tough,” said Xavi. in (terms of) the players,” he continental event have shown Taawoun FC in their final victory or draw tomorrow will by winning this game,” coach “We are improving from said. good quality so far. match in the Group stage be a good thing but we will Xavi said at a pre-match press one match to the next. We have The Barcelona legend added “The competition is very today. work on achieving victory,” he conference. done well in the group and we his team is capable of taking good and all the teams are The highly competitive said during a pre-match press He added that his team will have a chance to finish on top,” any team in the knockout stage. doing well and all this is Group C, topped by Al Duhail, conference yesterday. be up against a tough side that he said before hinting at “There are some strong because of the coaches’ sees a race to the knockout “Karim Boudiaf and Edmil- plays with an aggressive changes in the team for today’s teams in Group C. We must efforts. The defensive strat- stage with just one match to go son’s return has strengthened strategy. match. defeat Sepahan first and wait egies of all the teams have for each side. our team. Our team has “We will play against a very “We will rest some players, for the result of Al Nassr and Al been good, unlike last year. Al Duhail have collected become stronger after their good team. They are a well- and some substitute players will Ain to know who we will face, (Uzbekistan giants) Pakhtakor nine points at the top, but only return. However, we will lose organised team, especially in play in the next match. Yes, but we are ready for any team has been very good in the three points separate the Doha Ramin Rezaian for the match. defence. They control pos- Pedro and Baghdad will be sus- in the round of 16. We will wait tournament and their players giants and the bottom-placed Since I came to Al Duhail the session very well and they want pended, and this is an oppor- and see what will happen. All are doing well in defence and Al Taawoun, meaning it could team has not been able to to attack. It’s a good team. In tunity to rest them after playing the teams in the next round will attack. Until now, they are one be a do or die battle to seal a appear in full strength as my opinion, this is the most dif- tough matches recently, and be strong and ready to of the best teams in the com- berth in the next round. player injuries and absences ficult group in this tournament, after qualifying for the next compete.” petition, and my favourite so However, Al Duhail’s have always been there. But because the three opponents round, we have more options Xavi said the teams in the far,” he said. Moroccan Coach Walid the good thing is that the alter- Regragui has no intention set- natives are always on time and tling for a place other than top because of that we have spot. Regragui yesterday always been able to play good revealed that finishing the matches,” Regragui said. group stage as leaders is his His counterpart, French target despite the difficulty of coach Patrice Carteron yes- the match which will be played terday said that today’s match at the Education City Stadium will be like ‘a final.’ tonight. “This match will be like a “We are waiting for an final. We still have hope of YESTERDAY’S RESULTS important confrontation qualifying to the next round, GROUP A against Al Taawoun Saudi but we need to restore our team. The important thing is balance after the last defeat,” Esteghlal FC (IRN) 3-0 Al Ahli Saudi FC (KSA) they are looking for a turna- said Carteron said yesterday. GROUP B round from a heavy loss “As a coach you always Shahr Khodro FC (IRN) 0-1 Pakhtakor (UZB) against Sharjah team. Like all take the responsibility for wins TODAY'S FIXTURES of us, Al Taawoun is also or defeats, but the next game GROUP C playing in a difficult league and will also be a test of the players’ Persepolis FC (IRN) vs Sharjah (UAE) we know how strong they are. ability to react well after the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium 21:00 We cannot underestimate the defeat. Even if we had won the Al Duhail SC (QAT) vs Al Taawoun FC (KSA) Saudi team,” Regragui said previous match, we would still Education City Stadium 21:00 yesterday. have needed to win this one. GROUP D Regragui said that the most We hope we can do well and Al Nassr (KSA) vs Al Ain FC (UAE) important thing is to qualify for regain our balance by winning Education City Stadium 18:00 the knockouts of the here," he added. Sepahan FC (IRN) vs Al Sadd SC (QAT) Al Duhail players taking part in a practice session. tournament. The match kicks off at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium 18:00 “What is important now is 9.00pm. Esteghlal cruise past Al Ahli SFC to advance into Round of 16 AFC – DOHA Esteghlal went a step further, from the edge of the penalty area beating Al Owais in the 26th minute. for Cheick Diabate and the Malian Esteghlal cruised into the 2020 AFC Mehdi Ghaedi delivered a pinpoint forward guided his header past Al Champions League Round of 16 cross that was met by Ali Karimi on Owais to make it 3-0. with an emphatic 3-0 victory over the half-volley, but the midfielder’s Goalkeeper Seyed Hossein Hos- Group A leaders Al Ahli Saudi FC in effort cannoned off the upright. seini got his first big test of the night Matchday Six yesterday. Three minutes later, the Iranian in the 79th minute when substitute Majid Namjoo-Mot- dominance finally produced a goal. Hussain Al Moqahwi fired a thun- lagh’s men went into the game with Farshid Esmaeili received the ball derous strike from 30 yards out, and the knowledge that only a two-goal down the left and fed Ghaedi on the the Iranian goalkeeper did well to margin win would secure their edge of the box. The Esteghlal make the save. place in the Round of 16 alongside number 10 drilled a powerful drive The result means Esteghlal Al Ahli and ahead of Al Shorta and that nestled into the bottom corner finish second behind confirmed from the start they made their despite Al Owais’ best efforts to Group A winners Al Ahli, goal dif- intentions clear. save. ference giving the Iranian the An early spell of sustained pos- Al Ahli’s troubles were doubled advantage over Al Shorta who are session for Esteghlal saw them seven minutes before the break as consigned to a narrow group stage patiently probe and look for an Ghaedi turned from scorer to exit. opening, which they had for the first creator, sending a cross from the Later, Pakhtakor FC sealed top time after 21 minutes when club right flank into the far post for spot in Group B of the 2020 AFC captain Vorya Ghafouri lined a free- Karimi who evaded his marker and Champions League after defeating kick from 20 yards, curling it past headed home Esteghlal’s second. Shahr Khodro FC 1-0 at the same the wall but fairly centrally allowing After the restart, Esteghlal were venue. goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais quick to cement their place in the Jalaliddin Masharipov scored Esteghlal’s forward Mehdi Ghaedi (right) celebrates after scoring a goal against Saudi to make a flying save to tip it behind Round of 16 with a third goal. the winning goal for the Uzbek team Arabia's Al Ahli, at the Al Janoub Stadium, yesterday. for a corner. Karimi supplied a chipped cross in the 65th minute. THURSDAY 24 SEPTEMBER 2020 SPORT 11

Pakistan confirms DL: Doha assembles stellar field Zimbabwe for white as athletes eye final flourish

ball series THE PENINSULA/ bronze medallist Melissa WORLDATHLETICS — DOHA Courtney-Bryant, and Oceania record-holders Genevieve The Doha Diamond League - Gregson and Jessica Hull. KARACHI AFP — the season finale - is set to Mondo Duplantis will also feature exciting competition aim to end his year on a high – Pakistan cricket author- with an array of world class quite literally – when he lines ities confirmed yesterday athletes targeting to end their up for his final pole vault com- they would host Zimbabwe campaign on a high. petition of the year. for a series of three Tomorrow’s last meet of The 20-year-old from Armand Duplantis one-day internationals and the curtailed Diamond League Sweden has enjoyed a dream celebrates next to three Twenty20s starting season at the Qatar Sports Club season, setting world records the board after next month. Stadium will see one of the of 6.17m and 6.18m indoors and he broke world The tour will take place deepest line-ups in teh event. maintaining a winning streak pole vault record under “bio-secure” condi- The 3000m field will throughout the whole of 2020. of 6.17 metres tions to prevent the risk of feature a clash between world His latest victory was a 6.15m at the Orlen spreading the coronavirus, 5000m champion clearance – the highest Copernicus Cup officials said. and world steeplechase outdoor vault in history – at the 2020 World England became the champion Beatrice Chepkoech. Wanda Diamond League Athletics Indoor first country to hold inter- In fact, five medallists from meeting in Rome last week. meeting. national cricket matches four different disciplines at last If he’s feeling good, during the pandemic, year’s World Championships he may well decide to when they hosted the West will be back in action in Doha take an attempt at a Kenya’s Hellen Obiri celebrates after Indies, Pakistan, Ireland – and even then, that only would-be world record winning the women’s 5000m final and Australia between July scratches the surface of the height of 6.19m, though in Doha last year, in this file photo. and September. Players quality of the field. Duplantis himself would underwent regular tests Obiri opened her outdoor be quick to point out her 2:29.15 run in and were not allowed to campaign in Monaco last that records are by no Monaco and leave the bubble of the month, winning the 5000m in means a certainty every 2:29.92 win in stadium and hotel. a world-leading 14:22.12, just time he sets foot on the Brussels. She fol- The Pakistan Cricket four seconds shy of her Kenyan runway. lowed it with a Board (PCB) said it has record. She has fond memories His main goal will be dominant 3:59.05 consulted with England on of Doha, too, as it is where she to keep his winning run over 1500m, virus safeguards and will set a Kenyan 3000m record of streak intact, which in her specialist dis- be putting measures in 8:20.68 in 2014, following it itself will be no easy task tance, at the Con- place for a national T20 with victories over 3000m at as he takes on two-time tinental Tour Gold event starting September Doha’s Diamond League world champion Sam meeting in 30. Zimbabwe will bring a meeting last year and over Kendricks and 2012 Ostrava. 32-member squad to cater 5000m at the World Champi- Double for both formats as well as onships at the same venue. Kenya’s Conseslus Kipruto Olympic for the intra-squad Chepkoech also opened her celebrates after winning the champion Elaine warm-up matches. outdoor season in Monaco, men’s 3000m steeplechase Thompson-Herah Following 10 days in clocking 14:55.01 for 5000m, final during the athletics (pictured) and quarantine, Zimbabwe are and she followed it with a event at the Rio 2016 multiple world scheduled to play the first 9:10.07 run for second place in Olympic Games, in this medallist Marie- one-day international in the steeplechase at the Conti- August 17, 2016 formidable Josee Ta Lou will renew their Multan on October 30. nental Tour meeting in Berlin file photo. opponent. rivalry in what will be their Games will be played in earlier this month. The stee- Olympic fourth clash in Doha. closed stadiums. plechase world record-holder champion Faith Thompson-Herah won The other two ODIs is one of four women in the Kipyegon is their first Doha duel back in will also be in Multan on field with a PB inside 8:30. another athlete 2017, winning the 200m in November 1 and 3. Other athletes in the field who heads to 22.19, but Ivorian Ta Lou The three Twenty20 who stood on the podium in Doha off the gained revenge over 100m one internationals will be Doha last year include 5000m back of an year later, winning in 10.85. played in Rawalpindi on silver medallist Margaret unbeaten run, Their third clash in the Qatari November 7, 8 and 10. Chelimo Kipkemboi, 10,000m and she too will capital came at last year’s bronze medallist and 2015 move down in World Championships, where world cross-country champion distance. The Ta Lou finished third in the Agnes Tirop, and 1500m 26-year-old 100m, one place ahead of the bronze medallist Gudaf Tsegay. Jamaican.Jamaican. IPL: Mumbai In fact, all 16 women in the FollowingFollowing herher world-world- field own a medal from a global leadingleading 10.85 in Rome – stroll to big or continental championship, Olympic champion Renaud Lamecha Girma and Morocco’socco’s KenyanKenyan has wherewhere Ta Lou plplacedaced thirdthird or hold a world or continental Lavillenie. Soufiane El Bakkali, whoo havehave notchednotched up inin 11.14 – TThompson-Herahhompson-Herah victory over record. The quality is such that It’s not just the women’s set PBs this year of 3:35.6767 and twotwo vvictoriesictories willwill startstart as tthehe 1100m00m they all deserve a mention: 3000m that will bring together 3:34.51 respectively. Kiprutopruto overover 1000m1000m favourite in Doha onon 2015 world steeplechase some of the world’s best across may have proven timee and this year, Friday. US duo Aleia HobbsHobbs Kolkata champion Hyvin Kiyeng, world a range of disciplines; the again that he is the bestt over producingprod ucing andand KaylaKayla White should alsoalso U18 champion Lemlem Hailu, men’s 1500m has attracted the barriers, but this is a testtest to twotwo ooff thethe ffiveive featurefeature at thethe toptop enendd ofof tthehe world U20 champion Beatrice world and Olympic medallists see who has the greatestst foot fastestfastest timestimes in race.race. IANS — ABU DHABI Chebet, African Games from the steeplechase and speed. historyh istory 10,000m champion Tsehay 5000m. Ethiopia’s Selemon Barega,arega, withwith Reigning champions Mumbai Gemechu, African 1500m World and Olympic stee- the world 5000m silver mmed-ed- Indians yesterday strolled to a champion Winny Chebet, plechase champion Conseslus allist, will also step downwn in 49-run win over Kolkata African Games 1500m Kipruto will make his season distance in a bid to improveove on Knight Riders to record their champion Quailyne Jebiwott debut in what will be his first his recent PB of 3:36.07.. Aus-Aus- first ever win in the United Kiprop, European 5000m 1500m race in five years. The tralia’s Stewart McSweyn,, fresh Arab Emirates. silver medallist Eilish 25-year-old Kenyan will be from setting an Oceaniananian Chasing a target of 196, McColgan, European 1500m joined by his two fellow med- 3000m record in Rome,e, hhasas KKR were restricted to 146/9 bronze medallist Laura allists from last year’s World the fastest season’s best of tthehe by a clinical MI bowling attack Weightman, European indoor Championships, Ethiopia’s field (3:31.48) and will be a at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. KKR looked to have an outside chance until the 16th over of the match in which Middle-distance star Weightman Jasprit Bumrah (2/32) dis- missed dangermen Andre Russell (11) and Eoin Morgan (16). ‘to stick to flat races for now’ KKR needed as many as 96 runs from 30 balls at the start of the over, but Russell and Tomorrow's schedule THE PENINSULA — DOHA Laura “In the UK, we had quite a Morgan’s reputation for big at Qatar Sports Club Weightman strict lockdown for probably 6 hits kept the two-time cham- Stadium celebrates after to 8 weeks. All the track and pions’ hopes alive. Bumrah (Fans not allowed) Seasoned British middle- finishing in gym facilities were closed. At knocked off Russell’s leg distance star Laura Weightman second place that stage, we went back to stump with the very first ball yesterday said she won’t be in the women’s winter training - more miles, of the over and then got 17:53 100m Junior Men attempting a switch from her 1500m in road and grass workout,” Morgan to edge the fourth ball 18:02 400m Junior Men preferred beat of 1,500m and Berlin, in this Weightman said yesterday. to the wicket-keeper. 18:11 800m Junior Men the 5,000m races in the future. September 13, “When we had access to Earlier, Rohit Sharma’s The 29-year-old British 2020 file photo. facilities again - in late May and (80) masterful innings and 18:18 Pole Vault Men athlete will be seen in action in start of June - we started go back some lacklustre work with the 18:22 1500m Junior the 3000m clash at tomorrow’s on to the track and do race ball and in the field from KKR 18:33 200m Men Doha Diamond League, the last prep-up then. It kind of different helped MI post 195/5. Rohit 18:43 1500m B Race active competition of what has kind of build up but I don’t think nearly played through the Men been a shortened season it impacted me in any way,” she innings for his side, falling to because of the coronavirus pan- added. Shivam Mavi (2/32) only in the 19:03 400m Men demic sweeping the globe. Doha’s Qatar Sports Club 18th over. KKR managed to 19:08 Long Jump In a candid chat yesterday, will host the revised 12-event restrict MI in the last two overs Women Weightman said: “I think a few programme for the Wanda Doha after Rohit’s dismissal, with the 19:12 100m Hurdles people often joke that I should “I’ve done 5000m a little bit always maybe some day want Diamond League which includes four-time champions oth- Women try the steeplechase based on in the last few years. It’s defi- to try 10,000 just to see what I sprint hurdles and 800m for erwise looking set to score my 3000m personal best, but I nitely an event that I am excited could run. But as a champi- both men and women; 100m, more than 200 runs for much 19:21 1500m Men will be scared to go over the bar- and I like to explore. I think onship event 5000 will be my 3000m and long jump for of the innings. 19:34 110m Hurdles riers, especially the water jumps. 1500m will always be one of my focus for a few years,” she women; and 200m, 400m, Brief scores Men I think I will stick to the flat favourite events but yeah added. 1500m and pole vault for men. MI 195/5 in 20 overs (Rohit 19:43 800m Women races for now.” 5,000m will be one of my events A silver-medallist in 1,500m Due to the impact of Sharma 80, Suryakumar 19:56 100m Women A finalist in the 1,500 metres that I will be targeting in Tokyo at the 2014 Commonwealth COVID-19, the 2020 Wanda Yadav 47; Shivam Mavi 2/32) at the 2012 Olympics for sure,” Weightman said Games in Glasgow, Weightman Diamond League does not form beat KKR 146/9 in 20 overs 20:07 800m Men and the 2016 Rio Games, yesterday. said she took the forced break a structured series of events (Pat Cummins 33, Dinesh 20:18 3000m Women Weightman said she may want “For now, for the fore- because of the COVID-19 situ- leading to a final and athletes Karthik 30; James Pattinson to explore running the 10000m seeable future 5,000m is my ation in the United Kingdom in will not earn Diamond League 2/25) by 39 runs. in the future. competitive track distance. I will her stride. points this season. 10 SPORT THURSDAY 24 SEPTEMBER 2020 Formula One: Star Hamilton set to equal Schumacher’s record tally of 91 wins REUTERS - RUSSIAN F1 GRAND PRIX Lewis Hamilton is one win away Lap distance: 5.848km. Total distance: 309.745km (53 laps) from matching Michael Schu- 2019 pole position: Charles Leclerc (Monaco) Ferrari, one minute macher’s all-time record 91 and 31.628 seconds. the Mercedes Formula One driver 2019 winner: Lewis Hamilton (Britain) Mercedes will be favourite to get the job Race lap record: Hamilton, 2019: 1:35.761. done in Russia on Sunday. Start time: 1110GMT (1410 local) Some felt Schumacher’s tally might never be equalled when Mercedes are the only team to have won in Russia since the first race the seven-times world champion in Sochi in 2014. If they triumph again, it will be a record for most con- File photos of Lewis celebrated his last win in China secutive wins at the same Grand Prix. Hamilton won in 2014, 2015, Hamilton posted on in 2006. 2018 and 2019, Nico Rosberg in 2016 and Valtteri Bottas in 2017. The @MercedesAMGF1, the Hamilton, a winner since his only non-Mercedes drivers to have started on pole in Russia are Fer- officialTwitter handle of debut 2007 season and now rari’s Sebastian Vettel, in 2017, and Leclerc (2019). the Formula One team. making his 260th start, stands on the cusp of doing just that at a Mercedes and Ferrari have taken 16 of 18 podium places in Russia to circuit that did not exist when the date. The only exceptions were Bottas, third in 2014 for Williams, and Ferrari great was racing. Sergio Perez third for Force India in 2015. Bottas started on the front row The Briton has a better record in Sochi in 2016, took the first race win of his F1 career there in 2017 and than anyone in Sochi, with four pole in 2018. The layout runs clockwise around the 2014 Olympic Park wins since the first race there venues, partly on public roads, and features 12 right and six left-hand after the 2014 Winter Olympics, corners. AlphaTauri’s Daniil Kvyat is the only current Russian F1 driver. and Mercedes have yet to be beaten at the circuit. RACE WINS If they triumph again, it will Hamilton has 90 victories from 259 starts and can equal Michael also be a record for most suc- The man most likely to keep team mate’s six. Mercedes may Organisers, who had aimed Schumacher’s record 91 on Sunday. Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel is the cessive wins by a team at the Hamilton waiting is team mate not have it all their own way, for a 30,000 strong crowd, say next closest active driver on 53. Hamilton has won six of nine races same Grand Prix. Valtteri Bottas, who won in Sochi however, even if Ferrari -- on the race is sold out. The presence so far in 2020, Mercedes seven of them. Bottas, Red Bull’s Max Ver- “It just doesn’t seem real,” the in 2017 -- the first victory of his pole last year with Charles of a Netflix crew, following Mer- stappen and AlphaTauri’s Pierre Gasly are the other winners. Ferrari six-times world champion said Formula One career. Leclerc -- are struggling. cedes for season three of their have won 238 races since 1950, McLaren 182, Williams 114, Mercedes after his 90th win at Italy’s The Finn needs something Red Bull’s Max Verstappen is ‘Drive to Survive’ series, will have 109 and Red Bull 63. Former champions McLaren and Williams have Mugello circuit on September 13. special since he is 55 points due a change of fortune after two a few people on edge. not won since 2012. “I never thought that I would be behind Hamilton after nine of 17 successive retirements. It all went terribly wrong last here, that’s for sure.” races with only one victory to his “It’s not going to be easy in time the film makers followed POLE POSITION Sochi and it has not been a Mercedes, at Hockenheim last Hamilton has a record 95 career poles. favourite for us with a lot of long year where the German marque Mercedes have started every race on pole this season. straights,” said the Dutch was celebrating 125 years in mot- 22-year-old. orsport at a home Grand Prix. PODIUM “It’s also not the easiest place Mercedes endured their worst Hamilton has a record 158 career podiums. to overtake, but let’s hope this race of the season, with Hamilton weekend I won’t need to do too 11th but later promoted to ninth POINTS much overtaking and that we can while Bottas crashed out and Red Hamilton has a record 42 points finishes in a row, which is also get a good result.” Bull’s Max Verstappen was the the record for successive classified finishes. The Briton leads Bottas Sochi is the first ‘standalone’ winner. by 55 points. All of the 10 teams except Williams have scored points race of the season, after three “That made for a very enter- this season. successive triple headers, and taining Netflix episode but we also set to be the first with a sig- hope that this time we can have MILESTONE nificant spectator presence after great content and a great race,” Kimi Raikkonen is set for his 322nd F1 start, drawing level with all- the COVID-19 pandemic forced said Mercedes team boss Toto time record holder Rubens Barrichello of Brazil. the sport behind closed doors. Wolff. Australia quarantine in Crisis-hit Qantas kicks Wallabies into touch Christchurch AFP - SYDNEY before tests Australian flag carrier Qantas WELLINGTON - AP axed its long-running spon- sorship of the Wallabies Australia’s rugby team will yesterday as part of a corona- quarantine in the South Island virus-related cost-cutting drive, city of Christchurch before deepening the financial crisis playing New Zealand’s All engulfing Rugby Australia. Blacks in two Bledisloe Cup Qantas said it could not rugby tests next month. justify paying for sponsorships The tests will be played in when the Covid-19 pandemic Wellington on Oct 11 and meant it was cutting 2,500 jobs Auckland on Oct 18, though the and had posted an annual Auckland test likely will be pre-tax loss of A$2.7bn ($1.9bn). moved to Dunedin if New Zea- “While we’re dealing with land’s largest city remains this crisis and its aftermath, the under stricter coronavirus cash cost of our sponsorships restrictions than the rest of the has to be zero,” the airline’s chief country. Auckland currently is customer officer Stephanie Tully under Level 2 lockdown rules, said in a statement. which would require the test Qantas said it would offer at Eden Park to go ahead “in-kind” support such as flights without fans. to Cricket Australia and Football The Wallabies could arrive Federation Australia for the next in New Zealand as early as 12 months, as well as supporting In this file photo taken on October 27, 2018, Australia’s players line-up before the Bledisloe Cup rugby union Test match between the tomorrow and will complete Australia’s Olympic and Paral- New Zealand All Blacks and Australia at Yokohama International Stadium in Yokohama. Australian flag carrier Qantas axed its long- mandatory isolation at a four- ympic athletes at the 2021 Tokyo running sponsorship of the Wallabies as part of a coronavirus-related, cost-cutting drive, deepening the financial crisis engulfing star hotel in central Games. Rugby Australia. Christchurch. But it cut ties completely Players and support staff with the national rugby team as will be tested for COVID-19 part of the sponsorship shake- RA interim chief executive announcing he was retaining world champions are currently league, cricket and Australian after the third day of their up, ending a 30-year association Rob Clarke said Qantas’ decision flanker Michael Hooper as the languishing at seventh in the Rules. A protracted dispute last 14-day quarantine period and, reportedly worth A$5m ($3.6m) was “obviously disappointing” Wallabies captain. rankings, a historic low, and year over former Wallabies if all team members test neg- annually to Rugby Australia. but thanked the airline for its Qantas first began spon- were bundled out of last year’s winger Israel Folau’s homo- ative, the team will be able to The decision is a huge blow decades of support. soring the Wallabies in 1990 World Cup in the quarter-finals. phobic media posts resulted in train at Christchurch’s to RA, which lost almost A$10m “There aren’t many 30-year and the airline’s logo has Qantas’ sponsorship began an RA payout worth millions, Linwood Rugby Club, officials last year and axed 47 workers partnerships in Australian sport appeared on the team jersey during a golden age for rugby and internal wrangling this year said yesterday. -- a third of its staff -- in June and I want to thank Qantas for since 2004. union in Australia, with popu- saw the departure of several top The Bledisloe Cup series due to the pandemic’s impact on everything they have done for Rugby union’s demographic larity surging after wins in the executives. had been in jeopardy when the its bottom line. our great game,” he said in a in Australia -- wealthy, well- 1991 and 1999 World Cups and Wallaby great Phil Kearns Wallabies rejected previous The organisation is also statement. connected and privately edu- a nail-biting loss in the 2003 warned last month that rugby quarantine restrictions. The without a broadcast partner New Wallabies coach Dave cated -- had until now continued final to England in Sydney. risked becoming a “third-tier” Wallabies agreed to go ahead after an ill-timed effort to push Rennie said he could not dis- to attract corporate dollars The decline has been sport in his homeland unless with the matches when for a better deal coincided with agree with Qantas’ reasons for despite dwindling television marked in recent years as the Australia won hosting rights to relaxed regulations meant they the sporting calendar being dumping the deal. ratings and poor on-field rugby union slipped down the the 2027 World Cup and used could train in full from the thrown into turmoil by the “It’s understandable isn’t it?” performances. pecking order of Australian sport the tournament to revive the third day. Covid-19 crisis. he told reporters after The two-time behind rivals such as rugby code’s fortunes. English lower leagues face £200m loss from empty stadiums AFP - LONDON heavily on match-day revenue for survival, and was vital to help clubs survive. “We understand restrictions. Johnson said yesterday that the there have been calls from governing bodies for the government’s decision, as the health of the department was “in active consultations with The English Football League (EFL) and Football emergency funding. nation is the priority,” the FA said in a statement. clubs across the country to see what we can do Association (FA) warned yesterday that the delay “EFL Clubs lost £50m ($63.7) last season as a “However, it is important to recognise that the to help”. in bringing back crowds for up to six months will result of playing matches behind closed doors or impact on football will be huge. Clubs up and “It grieves me to see football clubs... not able have a devastating impact on the game’s finances. curtailing the season and stand to lose a further down the country are really struggling, and many to go back in the way they want to right now,” he A plan to bring fans back into English sports £200m in 2020/21 should we be required to play will have been looking forward to crowds coming told MPs. “And I have total sympathy with... the venues on a socially distanced basis from October the whole season without supporters in grounds,” back in order to provide much-needed income fans. I really wish we did not have to do this.” 1 has been scrapped because of fears over rising said EFL chairman Rick Parry. “As a matter of during these difficult times. Many, at all levels of However, Parry criticised the government’s infection numbers. urgency we now need to understand what the the game, are battling to survive.” U-turn after seven pilot events with 1,000 fans Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the government’s roadmap is for getting supporters Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media in the stadium were held in the EFL last weekend measures announced on Tuesday could stay in back into stadiums as soon as it is deemed safe and Sport, Oliver Dowden met with representa- and the stringent measures that have been put in place for six months. It is a devastating blow to to do so.” tives from a wide range of sports on Tuesday to place to ensure spectators can be socially sporting organisations, many of whom rely The FA said financial help from government hold further talks on the financial impact of the distanced. THURSDAY 24 SEPTEMBER 2020 SPORT 09 Bayern and Sevilla meet in European Super Cup Risks loom as Budapest prepares to welcome 20,000 football fans

REUTERS — BUDAPEST General view outside never been a problem, what’s the Puskas Arena been problematic is that we When Hungarian and European ahead of the European need technicians,” the doctor football leaders invited Super Cup. told Orban before the premier Hungarian ambulance workers cut him off, saying, “There was Benoit Paire of France during to the continent’s first major no problem with that, the his first round match of the international match open to question is, is there now?” ATP-Tour German Open in fans since the COVID-19 Orban has not addressed the Hamburg, yesterday. pandemic began, 500 para- Super Cup match directly, but medics jumped at the chance his chief of staff told broad- to attend today’s Super Cup. caster ATV earlier this week Champions League winners that the match would be held Paire says Bayern Munich of Germany and amid such rigor that it would be Europa League champions “safer than almost any other he played Sevilla of Spain meet at Buda- gathering.” pest’s Puskas Arena in a game Opposition politicians have that European football’s gov- long criticised the government’s despite erning body UEFA considers a * UEFA tests matches with spectators as Bayern and Sevilla meet handling of the crisis, which safety test of games with focuses on keeping the country testing spectators. * Hungarian PM keen to host big game in new Budapest arena open to aid the economy The match comes amid a instead of limiting infections. positive for growing second wave of * Health risks too big to host tens of thousands of fans: Expert Even amid that openness, COVID-19, with Hungarian *'Human experiment' is illegal and unacceptable: Opposition the Super Cup amounts to an cases at record highs, which illegal human experiment, COVID-19 prompted warnings of the pos- which is punishable under Hun- sible consequences of mass garian law, according to oppo- REUTERS — HAMBURG gatherings from leaders in other be nice,” Zsuzsanna Pongracz, study precisely the impact of sition Socialist deputy Ildiko countries, health experts, oppo- a 41 year-old ambulance spectators on the UEFA Return Borbely. Frenchman Benoit Paire sition politicians and citizens. worker currently on maternity They use 14,000 to Play Protocol,” a safety plan. “This experiment is unac- said yesterday that he was But even as both clubs will leave, said. compatriots as Orban, who faces the ceptable,” Borbely said. allowed to play in the send far fewer fans to the game “But is it really a good idea steepest challenge to his “They use 14,000 compa- Hamburg Open despite than the 3,000 each allotted to to send into that crowd health experimental rabbits to decade-long rule as Hungary triots as experimental rabbits testing positive for them, UEFA has proceeded with workers usually servicing the see how the coronavirus slides deeper into the pandemic, to see how the coronavirus COVID-19 because the the plans and Hungary concurs, front lines?” spreads at mass has said the health care sector spreads at mass gatherings. We “rules are different” in saying strict rules would The OMSZ did not address gatherings. We reject was ready to grapple with any reject exposing Hungary to such Germany. prevent infections. The para- repeated calls for comment. exposing Hungary to such eventuality as it is armed with danger.” Paire, who caused a medics are still going, too. Hungarian Prime Minister about 16,000 ventilators and Epidemiologist Andras storm at the US Open last “The tickets were snapped Viktor Orban, an avid football danger. tens of thousands of available Csilek, who advises the Hun- month when he was up within 21 hours,” the fan who has pledged billions of hospital beds. garian Medical Chamber, said forced to pull out of the National Ambulance Service euros to stadium building, has Ildiko Borbely But medical professionals the match carried unnec- Grand Slam after testing (OMSZ) boasted on its Facebook yet to see a big international Socialist Deputy have complained of a lack of essary risk and added the positive for COVID-19, page on September 9. competitive game in the newly technical and nursing staff to invitation to the paramedics said he returned a positive “More than 500 ambulance completed Puskas Stadium in operate that infrastructure, was “absurd.” test again on his arrival in workers will partake in the Budapest. even to Orban himself. “Just about everyone in the Germany but was told he match... Have fun safely and Although local authorities why, referring repeated ques- In a video posted on his health care sector will work on was no longer have a good game!” could have ordered the match tions to UEFA. UEFA did not Facebook page on Friday, COVID cases soon, he said. contagious. Most people were far less to be held behind closed doors, reply to questions yesterday, Orban visited a Budapest hos- “The Chamber also con- Paire played Nor- thrilled, including they have not done so and citing an August press release pital and asked the on-duty siders it wrong. It is a feel-good wegian Casper Ruud in his paramedics. spokesmen for Orban and the instead that said the match doctor whether there were story, but I don’t think it should first round match but “The gesture as such would government declined to explain would be open “in order to enough ventilators. “That has be allowed.” retired in the second set when he was down 6-4 2-0. “When I arrived, the inks test came back positive again,” Paire, who also played in the Rome sponsorship agreement QSL's Masters last week, told Hassan reporters. Rabiah Al “I can’t take it with Doha Bus company Kuwari and anymore, I’m breaking. Khaled Ali “And then I’m told, in Al Mawlawi Germany, if you are pos- THE PENINSULA — DOHA necessary support to fulfil aspirations of Aspetar itive and have already as well as ambitions, and benefit from after completed the quarantine The Qatar Stars League (QSL) has the capabilities and expertise of both signing the (period), they no longer signed a sponsorship agreement with entities. Commenting on the part- agreement test the players because Doha Bus, one of the Qatari nership, Nasser said, “We’re pleased yesterday. even if you catch it again, companies that provides tourism to sign this agreement with Doha Bus, you are no longer programmes and services with a according to which the company contagious. modern and distinctive entertainment joined the list of sponsors and “I said ‘thank you’ to concept with a view to introduce partners of QSL. We’re proud of the the doctor and the tour- Qatar’s urban, historical and cultural initiatives and programmes by the QSL signs co-operation nament (organisers) for landmarks into an atmosphere of fun company, and we look forward to allowing me to play... In to tourists from across the world. enhance our co-operation in future. Paris, some are negative The agreement to this effect was I also extend my sincere thanks and but since the coach tested signed yesterday, in the presence of appreciation to the Board of Directors deal with Aspetar Hospital positive, they cannot play. Nasser Yaqoub Larm Salmeen, of Doha Bus, wishing them more Here, in Germany, you Director of Sales and Marketing at success.” THE PENINSULA — DOHA achieve common goals and of the most important sports test positive and you can QSL, and Faisal Khalid Al Suwaidi, on Al Suwaidi said, “We’re pleased ambitions. medicine facilities in the still play.” behalf of Khalid Mohammed Al to co-operate with the Qatar Stars The Qatar Stars League On the occasion, Al world, and we look forward Six players in the Suwaidi, CEO of Doha Bus. League and sign this agreement, and (QSL) has signed a part- Kuwari said, “I extend my towards strengthening rela- French Open men’s and The agreement aims to achieve we hope to fulfil all our common goals nership agreement with thanks and appreciation to tions, co-operation and women’s qualifying draw common goals and provide the and objectives as we go along.” Aspetar Hospital, according all those in charge of achieving common goals.” were withdrawn this to which the latter became Aspetar Hospital, medical On his part, Al Mawlawi week after either testing its official medical partner. as well as administrative said, “We have strong rela- positive for COVID-19 or The agreement was offi- staff, and all employees for tionship with Qatar Stars after coming in close cially signed yesterday, at their active, influential and League and Qatar Football contact with a coach who the QSL Headquarters in Al vital role with us, especially Association, and through tested positive. Bidda Tower, in the during the past period, and this co-operation we intend Paire added that he presence of Hassan Rabiah we’re pleased to sign this to apply our expertise and fears he will be with- Al Kuwari, Executive agreement, which comes in initiatives in the field of drawn from the French Director of Sales, Marketing line with our keenness to sports medicine and Open after a doctor in and Communications at form strong and con- exercise science that would France told him there was QSL, and Khaled Ali Al structive partnerships with benefit sports competitions. a 50% chance he would Mawlawi, Chief Adminis- many active community I would like to extend my test positive when he trative Officer at Aspetar. institutions. sincere thanks and appre- arrives in Paris. The agreement aims to "There’s no doubt that ciation to Qatar Stars The French Open reinforce aspects of co- Aspetar, with its tre- League and its members for begins on Sunday. The agreement was signed in the presence of Nasser Yaqoub Larm Salmeen, operation and joint efforts, mendous capabilities, pro- their professionalism at Director of Sales and Marketing at QSL, and Faisal Khalid Al Suwaidi, on behalf and take advantage of both grammes and reputedp ini- work. We wish them greatg of Khalid Mohammed Al Suwaidi, CEO of Doha Bus. entities’ capabilities to tiatives, is consideredidered as one successsuccess in thethe ffuture.”uture.” When I arrived, the test came back positive Lewandowski on UEFA player of the year shortlist again. And then I’m told, in Germany, if you are positive and have REUTERS — LONDON competition’s top scorer with 15 record-equalling 20 assists in the were nominated forfor tthehe Robert already completed the goals. The Polish striker netted Premier League last season, the Men’s Coach of thehe Year Lewandowski Kevin De Bruyne, Robert 55 goals in 47 games in all com- highest in Europe. award, while Barcelona’srcelona’s quarantine (period), Lewandowski and Manuel petitions as Bayern won the Manchester City full back Lluis Cortes, Wolfsburg’solfsburg’s they no longer test the Neuer have been short-listed treble. Lucy Bronze, Chelsea striker Per- Stephan Lerch and Lyon’sLyon’s JeanJean-- players because even if for the UEFA men’s Player of Neuer, also part of Bayern’s nille Harder and Olympique Luc Vasseur madee thethe shortlistshortlist you catch it again, you the Year award, European foot- treble-winning squad, kept six Lyonnais defender Wendie for the women’s award.ward. are no longer ball’s governing body said clean sheets in the Champions Renard were short-listed for the The awards willill be pre-pre- yesterday. League and missed just one game women’s award. sented at the 2020-21-21 UUEFAEFA contagious. Lewandowski guided Bayern the entire season. Bayern’s Hans-Dieter Flick, Champions Leagueue groupgroup Benoit Paire Munich to their sixth Champions Manchester City midfielder Liverpool’s Juergen Klopp and stage draw ceremonymony on League title, finishing as the De Bruyne provided a RB Leipzig’s Julian Nagelsmann October 1. Sport THURSDAY 24 SEPTEMBER 2020 08

Jamal Murray of the Denver Nuggets drives to the basket against Kentavious Caldwell- Pope and LeBron James of Murray to the rescue as the Los Angeles Lakers during Game Three of the Western Conference Finals in 2020 NBA Play-offs in Lake Buena Nuggets win Game 3 Vista, Florida on Tuesday.

AFP – ORLANDO regrouped to take the game couple of shots,” Murray said. away from the Lakers. “I’m just trying to be Jamal Murray scored 28 The 23-year-old Cana- aggressive... but the most points as the Denver dian’s three-pointer from important part is the energy Nuggets held off a ferocious 26 feet gave Denver a I bring when I’m talking to late fightback from the Los seven-point advantage at my team-mates, being a Angeles Lakers to roar back 106-99 and he then pro- vocal leader, getting up and into contention in the vided the assist for Paul down and pushing eve- Western Conference finals Millsap to make it 108-99. rybody so they tend to series on Tuesday. With less than a minute follow. I just wanted to see AthletesAthletes ffaceace Murray nailed two on the clock, Murray struck them have a lot of fun crucial late three-pointers the dagger blow with a today.” The Lakers mean- tracking in the closing minutes as 29-foot three-point while were left reflecting Denver held on for a jumpshot to make it 111-99 on an uneven display which 114-106 victory in game and effectively seal victory. ultimately left James and apps if three to reduce the Lakers’ Denver coach Michael Davis with too much to do. lead to 2-1 in the best-of- Malone said his team -- James led the scoring coronavirus seven series. who had suffered an ago- with a triple double com- But the Nuggets -- who nising buzzer-beater defeat prised of 30 points, 10 persists looked in complete control in game two on Sunday -- rebounds and 11 assists, for long periods of the were determined not to go with six turnovers. Davis AFP – TOKYO contest -- were given a 3-0 down in the series. had 27 points, with mighty scare by the Lakers The Nuggets have Kentavious Caldwell-Pope Olympic athletes could face in a thrilling fourth-quarter already overturned 3-1 (12) and Kyle Kuzma (11) the strict controls on movement battle. series deficits en route to only other Lakers players and repeated coronavirus tests The Lakers had trailed the Western Conference to crack double figures. under measures discussed by 20 points with just over finals. Murray, who also had yesterday by a task force 10 minutes remaining but “I had no doubt we 12 assists, was backed with charged with finding ways to whittled away the Denver were going to show up 26 points from Jerami Grant safely hold the postponed lead to just three points tonight,” Malone said. while Nikola Jokic weighed Tokyo 2020 Games. with 3min 53sec left on the Asked about his late in with 22 points, 10 With less than a year until clock in Orlando. flourish, Murray said he had rebounds and five assists. the Olympics, organisers and But just as it looked as set out to lead by example. The winner of the Japanese officials met for the if LeBron James and “That’s my whole Western Conference will second time with a long list of Anthony Davis were poised energy, my whole play either the Boston possible requirements on the to complete a remarkable approach to the game, not Celtics or Miami Heat in the agenda. comeback, Murray getting down if I miss a NBA Finals. Athletes may have to submit a detailed plan of their activities in advance -- and right fielder Mookie Betts pledge to follow it -- or save Ozuna, Braves beat (right) reaches first on an error by Oakland their whereabouts on a “map Athletics first baseman Matt Olson during the app”, according to documents seventh inning at Dodger Stadium on Tuesday. prepared for the meeting. Miami to clinch 3rd They may also be required to undergo frequent corona- virus testing -- including three straight NL East title days before leaving home, another on arrival, and others AP – ATLANTA we’ve had a lot of heartbreak, during their stay. especially last year,” Freeman They will, however, be After clinching their third said. “We’ve been grinding this allowed to train during any straight NL East title, the year and we’re going to grind quarantine. set their sights again.” “Tests are one of the most on ended a much longer Miami remained in important issues from the two streak. position to earn its first playoff perspectives of securing safety After losses in 10 straight berth since winning the 2003 and a sense of security for ath- postseason appearances, the World Series. letes,” Tokyo 2020 chief exec- Braves are desperate to end “We’ve got to keep focused utive Toshiro Muto told a press the drought. and keep our heads up all the conference. “If you ask me, it’s World time,” said José Ureña, (0-3), “We’d like to create a Series or nothing,” said Ronald who allowed four runs in six system, or mechanism, to con- Acuña Jr. said through a trans- innings. tinue testing when they enter lator after Atlanta clinched the Ozuna hit a first-inning Japan.” division title by beating the homer, homered But, Muto said, ensuring 11-1 on Tuesday in the second, and Ozuna the reliability of pre- night. added a two-run double in the departure testing in every pitched five fifth and drove in Freeman country -- and guaranteeing scoreless innings, and Marcell with a 450-foot homer to Los Angeles Dodgers clinch the accuracy even of high- Ozuna drove in five runs with center field in the eighth. precision PCR tests -- will be four hits that included two Starling Marte led off the a challenge. home runs. sixth with a homer off Josh The 2020 Games were Atlanta hit five homers, Tomlin. 8th division title in a row postponed in a historic including drives by Dansby Brian Snitker said decision earlier this year Swanson and the Braves were prepared for AFP – LOS ANGELES 32-year wait for a World Series about this year is different, but because of the coronavirus off Nick Vincent in a five-run a low-key celebration, due to crown after several recent we’re the champs. It’s hard to pandemic and are now set to seventh. Freeman drove in two social distancing rules in the The Los Angeles Dodgers near-misses. do that once, let alone we’ve open on July 23 next year. runs with three hits. pandemic. He said Major blasted aside the Oakland The Dodgers lost in both the had three in a row here.” Other restrictions floated “I think when it’s all said League Baseball “pretty much Athletics 7-2 to clinch an eighth 2017 and 2018 World Series, In Cleveland, Jose Ramirez in Wednesday’s meeting and done, this is the most sat- restricted all that” due to space consecutive and made an early exit in the smashed a three-run homer included athletes avoiding isfying with all we had to go constraints in the clubhouse. West title on Tuesday. playoffs last year to eventual in the bottom of the 10th public transport where pos- through this season to get to “I think we go in and air The Dodgers, chasing a first winners the Washington inning to give the Indians a sible and also introducing this point,” said Freeman, who high-five to everybody,” World Series title since 1988, Nationals. 5-3 victory over the Chicago social-distancing “pedestrian missed the start of the delayed Snitker said. overpowered the Athletics with Elsewhere Tuesday, the White Sox and clinch a posts- traffic lanes” in venues and season with a high fever and It was an unexpected home runs from Max Muncy, Atlanta Braves wrapped up a eason berth. Olympic villages. other symptoms after testing showing by Wilson, the Chris Taylor, A.J. Pollock and third straight National League The Chicago Cubs mean- Common spaces such as positive for the novel 22-year-old right-hander. He Corey Seager at an empty East title with an 11-1 rout of the while secured their postseason lobbies, lounges and tradi- coronavirus. had a 7.04 ERA in four relief Dodger Stadium. Marlins. ticket despite losing to the Pitts- tional hot spring baths might Freeman rebounded to outings and had been at the The result, combined with hit two home burgh Pirates. The Cubs also be closed to reduce social become an MVP candidate. He team’s alternate training site San Diego’s defeat to the Los runs in a one-sided victory for advanced after Washington contact. pushed his batting average to until Monday. He had not Angeles Angels, ensured the the Braves, who saw pitcher swept the Philadelphia Phillies When asked how the rules .347. started since July 16 last year Dodgers topped the NL West Bryse Wilson toss five scoreless in their double-header. would be enforced, Muto said After Jorge Alfaro’s game- at Milwaukee. once again. innings. This year’s Major League it depended on which restric- ending lineout to Freeman, “Bryse was awesome,” It also gives the Dodgers the “This is different,” Braves Baseball season was reduced tions were chosen. Braves players hugged on the Snitker said. number one seeding heading manager Brian Snitker said. to 60 games following a delay The postponement of the field and exchanged high-fives “That was a big start for into the National League play- “I’m proud of how they handled to the start of the campaign Games has caused all manner in the dugout. Players wore Bryse. He hadn’t pitched in a offs. The Los Angeles power- this whole situation over the caused by the coronavirus of logistical headaches, forcing “Respect Atlanta” T-shirts and while.” houses are hoping to end a past few months. Everything pandemic. the renegotiation of contracts posed for photos on the field with venues and hotels, and with the 2020 banner. efforts to keep sponsors on From the visitor’s dugout, board for another year. Marlins manager Don Mat- tingly watched the low-key celebration with respect. “They’ve been probably the Tests are one of the class of the division over the most important issues last few years,” Mattingly said. from the two “They’re the gold standard. They’re the guys you have to perspectives of go after.” securing safety and a Wilson (1-0) allowed three sense of security for hits and one walk, striking out athletes. We'd like to a career-high seven. create a system, or Atlanta clinched its record 20th division title, one more mechanism, to continue than the New York Yankees. testing when they enter The Braves won 14 straight in Japan. completed seasons from 1991- 2005 but have not won a Tokyo 2020 Chief postseason series since 2001 Executive and have not won a champi- Atlanta Braves players and officials celebrate after defeating onship since 1995. the Miami Marlins to clinch the Division Toshiro Muto “Everyone has got the taste at in Cumberland, Georgia, on Tuesday. the last couple of years and