Qatar Sport

Doha: The Qatar International Friendship Artistic Gymnastics Championship is set to commence on Friday at Aspire Academy, bringing together 225 young gymnasts from six countries - Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, Jordan, Lebanon, and Iraq. The two-day event will see participants compete in 16 teams, promising an exciting and competitive atmosphere. The championship will begin with five levels of competition on Friday, running from 8 amto 9 pm, while the final day on Saturday will feature contests across two levels. Winners in each age category will be honored in individual award ceremonies, and all competitions will adhere to the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) regulations, ensuring a high level of professionalism and fair play. Ali Al Hitmi, President of the Qatar Gymnastics Federation, affirmed that Aspire Academy is fully prepared to host the tournament, reflecting Qatar’s commitment to world-class sporting events. "All preparations have been finalized, and we are ready for the championship’s launch. The organizing teams have been working diligently to ensure a seamless experience for all participating delegations," he stated. He also emphasized the tournament’s role in nurturing young talent, offering clubs and academies the chance to compete against strong teams, evaluate player performances, and prepare for elite international competitions. Hosting the event at Aspire Academy with a live audience further enhances its prestige and competitive atmosphere, providing gymnasts with an authentic championship experience. Abeer Al Buainain, Vice President of the Organizing Committee, highlighted the excitement surrounding the event, saying: "The championship has generated great interest, and we are all looking forward to a fantastic competition alongside excellent organization." She added: "All delegations have arrived and are fully prepared for the tournament. The training sessions have showcased high levels of focus and skill, indicating that we can expect an intense and competitive championship." Samira Said, Tournament Director, confirmed that all facilities and logistics are in place, with teams having completed their final training sessions. The organizing committee has meticulously reviewed every detail to ensure smooth operations. "This championship is a fantastic opportunity for young gymnasts to gain international experience and develop their skills. It also helps promote the culture of gymnastics from an early age, particularly in Qatar, by exposing local athletes to strong competition against talented gymnasts from various countries," she noted. With all preparations complete, the Qatar International Friendship Artistic Gymnastics Championship is set to deliver an exciting and well-organized competition, reinforcing Doha’s reputation as a premier destination for international sporting events.

Cricket

Dubai: Towhid Hridoy struck his first ODI century and with Jaker Ali helped Bangladesh reach 228 from 35-5 against India as the two teams opened their Champions Trophy campaign on Thursday in Dubai. India's pace spearhead Mohammed Shami returned figures of 5-53 after Bangladesh elected to bat first but lost half their side in the ninth over. Towhid, who made 100, and Jaker, who hit 68, put on 154 runs to boost the total, albeit with some assistance from sloppy Indian fielding including two dropped catches. Towhid, who faced cramps later in his knock, raised his hundred and acknowledged the cheers of the fans at a largely empty stadium before he departed and the innings folded in 49.4 overs. Shami struck in the first over to get left-handed Soumya Sarkar caught behind for a five-ball duck. Harshit Rana combined from the other end to get skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto caught at cover-point for a duck with Virat Kohli taking a good catch over his head. Mehidy Hasan Miraz could not last long as Shami struck for the second time as Shubman Gill took a sharp catch at slip. Shami's return from injury in India's white-ball triumph over England at home boosted the team in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who was ruled out of this eight-nation tournament with a back injury. Bangladesh lost half their side in the ninth over when left-arm spinner Axar Patel struck twice in two balls to send Tanzid Hasan, for 25, and Mushfiqur Rahim, for zero, trudging back to the pavilion. It could have been six down and Axar with a hat-trick had skipper Rohit Sharma not dropped a catch at first slip to hand Jaker Ali a reprieve on nought. Rohit slapped his hand on the grass and stood up with a wry smile to apologise to Axar for the slip. Jaker, who survived another reprieve on 24 when wicketkeeper KL Rahul missed a stumping, and Towhid, who was dropped on 23 by Hardik Pandya at mid-off, combined to thwart the Indian charge. Jaker reached his second ODI fifty and Towhid raised his half ton with a boundary. Jaker finally fell to Shami but Towhid kept up the fight until his 118-ball knock ended with six fours and two sixes. India remain title favourites and have Pakistan and New Zealand as the other two teams in Group A.

Golf

Doha, Qatar: The stage is set for the 39th Qatar Open Amateur Golf Championship, which kicks off at the picturesque Doha Golf Club (DGC) today. Organised by the Qatar Golf Association (QGA), the three-day tournament will bring together around 100 top amateur golfers, all competing for a shot at glory and a coveted spot in the prestigious Commercial Bank Qatar Masters. The QGA yesterday said all preparations have been finalised to host the event in a befitting manner. The competition follows an individual stroke play format, with players battling through two rounds. The top 50 will advance to Saturday’s final round, where the champion will be crowned. This year’s winner will earn a rare opportunity to compete alongside some of the world’s best professionals in Qatar’s premier golf event on the European Tour calendar. QGA President Hamad Abdullah Al Mana emphasised the tournament’s rich history, saying that the first edition was played on sand courses in Mesaieed and Dukhan in 1983 before moving to DGC in 1999. Over the years, it has evolved into a prestigious event that attracts players from across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. “The Qatar Open has built a strong reputation as a gateway for emerging golfers,” Al Mana said. “Winning this event is more than just a title - it’s a stepping stone toward professional success.” With elite amateurs looking to make their mark and seasoned players aiming to cement their legacy, the championship promises intense competition. With windy and overcast conditions in Doha, golfers are expected to face a tough test throughout the tournament. England’s Calum Fitzgerald registered a three-shot victory to claim the title last year with Qatar’s Saleh Al Kaabi finishing second in the tournament.