Halep crashes out of Miami Open

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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Halep crashes out of Miami Open World number one Simona Halep tumbled out of the Miami Open on Saturday, falling 3-6, 6-2 and 6-3 to Poland's Agnieszka Radwanska.

The third-round defeat comes a week after Romania's Halep was toppled in the semi-finals at Indian Wells by Japan's Naomi Osaka, who went on to win the title in the California desert. With the first set in hand, the mercurial Halep was clearly frustrated when Radwanska dropped just four points in the opening four games of the second to seize a 4-0 lead.

Halep reclaimed one break, but was broken again as Radwanska forced a third set, in which an early break put Halep up 2-0. The Romanian couldn't maintain the advantage, however, and her 44 unforced errors were too much to overcome as Radwanska won six of the last seven games to seal the victory.

Radwanska, the 2012 Miami champion, hadn't posted back-to-back match victories since January.

She next faces former world number one Victoria Azarenka, who rallied for a 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 victory over 20th-seeded Latvian Anastasija Sevastova.

Azarenka, of Belarus, is unseeded this year as she tries to get her career back on track after taking time off to have a baby.

Despite the defeat, Halep is assured of retaining the number one spot when the rankings are updated at the end of the tournament.

But her exit leaves the women's field in the elite hard-court tournament without its top two seeds after second-seeded Australian Open champion Caroline Wozniacki lost to Monica Puig on Friday night.

Wozniacki was smarting Saturday, not from anything Puig offered on court but from what she said was threatening and vulgar behaviour by fans at the match.

In a Twitter post, the Danish star called on Miami Open organizers to act after fans threatened her parents and swore at the niece and nephew of her fiancé, David Lee.

“During the match last night people in the crowd threatened my family, wished death upon my mom and dad, called me names that I can't repeat here,” she said in a Twitter post.

“Meanwhile security and staff did nothing to prevent this and even accepted this to take place,” Wozniacki added.

Tournament director James Blake said player security was the event's “Number 1 priority”.

“During the match, we had tournament and WTA staff, as well as tournament security courtside,” Blake said in a statement. “They never witnessed, nor were they notified of any specific threats made to the players or their families. If they had been notified, the situation would have been handled immediately.”

In other third-round action, reigning Wimbledon champion Garbine Muguruza crushed American Christina McHale 6-2, 6-1 and US Open winner Sloane Stephens was handed a victory when opponent Monica Niculescu retired in the third set with an injury.

Fifth-seeded Czech Karolina Pliskova also defeated Taiwan's Hsieh Su-Wei 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (7/4). Pliskova will battle for a quarter-final berth against Zarina Diyas of Kazakhstan, who defeated German Carina Witthoeft 4-6, 7-5, 6-0.

NAMPA/AFP

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Eliaskemboi wins Zhengkai Marathon

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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Eliaskemboi wins Zhengkai Marathon Chelimo Eliaskemboi from Kenya won the men's title at the Zhengkai Marathon on Sunday in China's Henan province, in a time of 2 hours 13 minutes and 53 seconds.

“It's my first time to (run) the ZhengKai Marathon. Clear weather and the flat road helped me to win. It doesn't reach my best record of 2 hours and 11 minutes, but I'm also very happy to win,” said Chelimo Eliaskemboi, who pocketed US$12 000 in prize money. Naibei Emmanuel and Korir Jonathan, also from Kenya, finished in 2:14:05 and 2:14:25 respectively.

Mukhwana Ednah from Kenya won the women's title in 2:30:24.

The Zhengkai Marathon was inaugurated in 2006, which is the only marathon race in China connecting two ancient capitals, Zhengzhou and Kaifeng. It attracted almost 50 000 runners from all over the world this year.





NAMPA/XINHUA

Tigers sent packing

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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Tigers sent packingDebmarine Cup delivers first huge upset Khuse FC left a sour taste in Tigers' mouth after beating them on penalties in the 2018 Debmarine Namibia Cup round of 32. The Debmarine Namibia Cup produced its first upset, as Oshana Khuse FC knocked out premier league side Tigers in their round of 32 match played at the Etosha Stadium in Tsumeb on Saturday.

The action scheduled for the Oscar Norich Stadium in Tsumeb had to be moved to the Etosha Stadium due to the bad state of the pitch.

Khuse FC held their own against Tigers to secure a goalless draw before winning 4-2 on penalties.

Nangolo Erastus, Steven Hambira, France Shivute and Joseph Shipepe scored for Khuse in the shootout, whereas Tigers captain Absalom Iimbondi and veteran midfielder Letu Shatimwene missed their penalties.

Their teammates Bradley Wermann and Ferdinand Karongee scored. In other matches played in Swakopmund on Saturday, Eleven Arrows, Swakopmund FC and African Stars cruised into the next round of the cup competition.

Space Age from the Zambezi Region lost 3-0 to Khomas Nampol, as Silas Ashipala scored a brace and Erich Tsam scored one for the Southern Stream First Division qualifiers.

Swakopmund FC won 5-1 against Ohangwena Nampol, with goals from Harold Kwedhi, Ensley Gariseb, Dorian Iyambo and a brace from Nathan Beukes. Jonas Elias scored for Nampol.

Kavango East's Once Again FC are also through to the next round, following the withdrawal of Kavango West qualifiers Rhino FC.

At the Sam Nujoma Stadium on the same day it rained goals, as another coastal side, Eleven Arrows, made easy work of Real Fighters from the //Karas Region, winning 11-0.

Young Warriors stars Anthony Kham and Aprocius Petrus scored three and one goal, respectively, as they warmed up for tomorrow's Brave Warriors Lesotho friendly.

Simon Nekongo and Salomon Omseb each scored a brace in the round, while Willem Pinehas, Josef Ngifindwako and Leonard Vlees chipped in with a goal each for a comprehensive victory and safe passage into next round.

African Stars also scored a big victory in their match against Omaheke Nampol, the match ended 12-0.

Godwin Jena scored four, Marius Kotze three and Pandu Nekundi scored two, while Aubrey Amseb, Tjiuana tja Tjinotjiua, Treasure Kauapirura scored one each to see 'Starlile' through.

Citizens and Young Chiefs locked horns in the final match and it was Citizens that lead 2-0, with goals from Steward Goagoseb before it ended 2-2 after 90 minutes, with Paulus Kennedy and Lukas Johannes scoring right at the death.

In the shootout, Chiefs won 6-5 to advance to the Last 16. The matches between Civics and Rundu Chiefs and Chief Santos and Reho Madrid were due to take place yesterday morning, as they were previously postponed due to bad lighting at the venue.

Other matches which were also due to take place yesterday at the Sam Nujoma Stadium were Black Africa vs Young African (15:00) and Tura Magic vs Mighty Gunners (17:00).

At the Etosha Stadium in Tsumeb Blue Waters were due to face Fresh United yesterday at 09:00.

Orlando Pirates were due to play Outjo Academy at 11:00 yesterday, while Eastern Chiefs and Unam were to go head to head at 13:00.

Dynamos were to play Onathinge at 15:00 and Golden Bees were to clash with Life Fighters at 17:00.

NFA

European Rugby to discuss refereeing controversy

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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European Rugby to discuss refereeing controversy Rugby Europe board members will today discuss a report from their referees' committee on Belgium's disputed 2019 World Cup qualifying win over Spain that was officiated by a Romanian and benefited Romania.

Victory for Spain last Sunday would have given them an automatic place in the World Cup in Japan next year, but Belgium won 18-10 in Brussels to send Romania through instead.

At the final whistle, referee Vlad Iordachescu, was surrounded by outraged Spanish players.

The Spanish rugby federation, who had requested before the match that the trio of Romanian officials be switched, have now asked that the match be replayed because of 19 decisions they believe were unfair to their team.

Rugby Europe, whose president Octavian Morariu is also Romanian, released a statement on Friday saying its “referees' selection committee met today in Poznan (Poland) to analyse the performance of the referees on the Belgium/Spain game”.

The statement said that “the assessment will be provided to Rugby Europe Board members and to World Rugby, in accordance with their request (for an explanation)”. It said a conference call of Rugby Europe Board members would be held on Monday.

“The current situation is a matter of regret for Rugby Europe, who would like to express its willingness to communicate in a transparent way, to avoid damaging allegations for the image and values of our sport, the teams and the refereeing.”

Rugby Europe also said that the analysis of the match should be conducted by an outside committee.

If the result stands, Spain can still qualify for the World Cup by beating first Portugal and then former quarterfinalists Samoa.





NAMPA/AFP

Dejected Djokovic looks for answers

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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Dejected Djokovic looks for answers Six-time champion Novak Djokovic “ran out of gas” in a 6-3, 6-4 loss to Benoit Paire on Friday in his ATP Miami Masters opener.

It was another setback for the Serbian star as he bids to return from the elbow injury that sidelined him for six months and finally saw him have “minor” surgical intervention after a disappointing Australian Open.

“I'm trying, but it's not working,” Djokovic said.

“That's all it is.

I mean, obviously I'm not feeling great when I'm playing this way. Of course I want to be able to play as well as I want to play. Just, it's impossible at the moment. That's all.”

Paire broke Djokovic at love to seal the win, with Djokovic dumping a backhand into the net on the Frenchman's first match point.

The Frenchman broke Djokovic in the seventh game of the opening set - part of a run of five straight games that saw him take a 6-3, 1-0 lead.

“I felt I started the match well, first six games,” Djokovic said. “Then I just ran out of gas.

He was serving well. I just wasn't able to break him down. He was just coming up with the good shots at the right time. It happened very fast.”

Djokovic, the former world number one now ranked 12th in the world, dug deep to escape a 0-40 hole and hold a serve in the second game of the second set before Paire broke him for a 4-2 lead.

The Serbian responded with his first break of the match to put the set back on serve, but simply had no answer in the final game.

Djokovic had also lost his opening match at the Indian Wells Masters last week.

But he was encouraged in Miami this week to find himself playing without pain for the first time “in years”.

He said a lack of match fitness was “one of the things” preventing him from gaining any steam in his bid to return to his top form.

But he said that in attempting to play through injury for so long, “I compromised my game and the movement and everything... I'm trying to figure things out.

“I wanted to come to Indian Wells and Miami because I wanted to see whether I can play a match,” he said.

“I love playing on the hard court. I wanted to get a couple of tournaments before the clay court season starts. I obviously wasn't ready for that.”

Although he had planned for the two stateside hard-court tournaments to be a precursor to a full clay court season, Djokovic sounded unsure after the defeat.

“That was the plan,” he said when asked if he felt ready to head into the Monte Carlo Masters Aril 14-22. “But let's see what happens.”





NAMPA/AFP

Ronaldo to the rescue

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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Ronaldo to the rescueTwo-goal show steals Salah's limelight Portugal's captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, scored two stoppage-time goals to steal a 2-1 win over Egypt in an entertaining World Cup warm-up in Switzerland on Friday. Christian Ronaldo hit two goals in stoppage time as European champions Portugal defeated Egypt in a friendly international, winning his personal duel with Mohamed Salah, who had put the seven-time African champions ahead.

Ronaldo, appearing in his 900th career match, made his mark to devastating effect as time ran out.

First, he pulled his team level with a header from a Ricardo Quaresma cross, before adding the winner in almost identical circumstances in the fourth minute of injury time.

However, the 33-year-old Real Madrid star had to wait for the VAR system to validate his goal after a suspicion of offside. His two-goal salvo took his Portugal tally to 81.

Earlier, Salah, who has shown his exceptional prowess at Liverpool this season with 28 Premier League goals, broke the deadlock in Zurich after 56 minutes.

After a quick-fire exchange of passes, Abdallah El Said found Salah in space for his teammate to beat Beto in the Portuguese goal with a sweetly-timed left-foot strike from the edge of the area.

“In the last minutes we were better, created four chances and showed great determination to turn it around. They showed that they did not want to lose,” said Portugal coach Fernando Santos.

“And with Ronaldo, it's about a goal and another goal.”

Ronaldo had two first-half chances blocked as he tried to continue his impressive recent form which had seen him score 18 goals in his last nine La Liga games, including registering a 50th hat-trick.

Salah was replaced late in the game by Shikabala and Portugal sensed a chance to grab a share of the spoils.

Quaresma, meanwhile, saw a 72nd minute attempt saved by Mohamed El-Shenawy in the Egypt goal while Bruno Alves saw a close-range header from a corner drift wide of the goal.

Shikabala had a fierce shot saved by Beto diving high to his right before Alves's frustrations boiled over late in the game with a yellow card.

But with time running out, Ronaldo had the final say as the five-time Ballon d'Or winner moved into third place on the all-time list of international goal scorers.

Legendary Hungarian striker Ferenc Puskas scored 84 goals while Iran's Ali Daei leads the list with 109 goals in 149 internationals.

Egypt, back at a World Cup for the first time since 1990, will play in Group A at the finals this summer with hosts Russia, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.

Portugal is in Group B and will face Spain, Morocco and Iran.





NAMPA/AFP

Shot of the day

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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Shot of the day ABSTRACT: A model presents a creation by Indian designer Nitin Bal Chauhan during the Amazon India Fashion Week Autumn Winter 2018 in New Delhi. Photo: NAMPA/AFP

How did we become so angry?

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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How did we become so angry? Last Thursday, Namibia woke up to the shocking news that a yet to be identified motorist, who had become involved in an altercation with a taxi driver in Khomasdal, had randomly fired several shots that resulted in the death of a 22-year-old Namibia University of Technology (Nust) student.

The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the country, happened at 01:45, as the nation slumbered after celebrating 28 years of independence.

Our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Naeman Ibe Amakali, who lost his life in this senseless act of violence.

It has also been revealed that two others, who were also wounded, are receiving treatment at a Katutura hospital.

The suspect was driving a black Volkswagen Polo and we urge the authorities to track him down as a matter of urgency.

Such wanton acts of violence is an indictment on us all and need to be rooted out, root and stem, from society.

They also tie into an unfolding scourge in our society, which includes the targeting of the most vulnerable, who are increasingly becoming victims of violence.

We have also noticed, as a constant harbinger, the level of acerbic anger unfolding on social media in the country, where we have become used to personalised attacks and angry confrontations that leave much to be desired. In a country where democracy was birthed from violence and bloodshed, this does not augur well.

We need to make significant inroads into dealing with these powder kegs that threaten peace and stability. The root causes of our anger need to be addressed as a matter of urgency, as these kinds of pent-up frustrations can no longer be allowed to linger and explode into random acts of violence in our society. We have become such an angry nation and what is required is a serious look in the mirror. At different times in our recent history, a South African Truth and Reconciliation-type process has been urged for Namibia. Perhaps it is time to reignite this debate, as a way of effectively soothing the growing hostility that has gained a foothold in the Land of the Brave.

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Crusaders cruise past Bulls

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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Crusaders cruise past BullsScrappy play SA side's undoing The hapless Bulls were never in with a chance of winning against the defending champions, who taught them a rugby lesson in Christchurch. Defending Vodacom Super Rugby champions, the Crusaders, taught the Vodacom Bulls a lesson in composure and striking when it mattered, as they cruised to victory in Christchurch on Friday.

The Crusaders 33-14 victory means that the Bulls will return home winless from their tour despite showing promise and now are one win from five in the competition where they started off so well.

It was another frustrating night for the Bulls who looked good early on, dominating the opening 10 minutes with more than 90 percent of the ball, but then watched as the Crusaders hit back twice in their only two chances in the Bulls red zone to make the score 14-0.

The stats tell a horrible story for the Bulls, especially when it comes to their finishing, one of the biggest bugbears for coach John Mitchell. While they dominated almost every statistic – they had double the passes, a third more carries than the Crusaders and beat 18 defenders to the defending champion's seven, they were never in with a chance of winning the game.

They had more metres carried and forced the Crusaders to make more than a third more tackles, but in the end they couldn't execute and it cost them.

Perhaps it was a bit too much to ask them to beat a 22-year hoodoo since the last Bulls side had won in Christchurch, but it will be frustrating both to Bulls fans and to coach Mitchell how they weren't able to handle the Crusaders line-speed on defence and how they played almost all of the rugby for little reward.

The Crusaders resembled the Bulls of the 2009 era, a team that focused on their defence, looked for weaknesses and kicked the ball down field to pounce on mistakes. They used their lineout drive to good effect to nullify the Bulls defence and scored three tries from it, while the Bulls used theirs countless times and came up with nothing.

It will be of concern to the Bulls that they weren't able to stop the drive - the same problems that hurt them against the Lions a few weeks ago, and the result will give them a measure of where they are in comparison to the best side in the competition.

The Bulls will point to the fact that they are a work in progress, but on paper they are in exactly the same position as they were under Nollis Marais, winning one from five and with a stronger line-up than they had a year before.

It may sound a bit harsh to compare, but for a team who believes they can be championship contenders in a year or so, this is the ground where they would be measured. And while there was a lot good about the performance, unless they manage to cross the divide and finish teams off when they have the upper hand, the progress will be stunted.

Still, there is a lot to be expected when they return to Loftus Versfeld next week against their arch-rivals, the DHL Stormers, and their performance there will be crucial to the rest of their campaign.

The Bulls will kick themselves that despite five early penalties and three lineout drives, they were their own worst enemies, as turnovers allowed the Crusaders to get down into their half, and the first two lineout drives from the home side saw Scott Barrett and Codie Taylor force their way over from close range.

A blistering run from Travis Ismaiel, out of nothing, finally put them on the board as he ran a beautiful line to beat virtually every defender in sight and score a great try.

But the moments were too few and far between as the Crusaders scored another on the stroke of halftime, this time through midfielder Jack Goodhue, who used a powerful leg drive to score a try despite the attention of three players.

Shortly after halftime Goodhue scored again, ballooning the scoreline to 28-7 before the Bulls found some backbone to score through Marco van Staden, the replacement taking the ball up powerfully and not being held, getting up to run to score.

But the hope was quickly snuffed out by the Crusaders as a cross-kick saw George Bridge pick up and beat two defenders to secure the win, and send the Bulls home without a point for their efforts.

At just five points from their first five games, and just ahead of the Jaguares on point difference in their conference, the Bulls will be hoping their home ground becomes their fortress. Otherwise all the talk of a new dawn will be for nothing once the pressure starts to set in.

SUPERSPORT

Chinese clued up on meat industry

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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Chinese clued up on meat industry A Chinese delegation recently visited the Meat Board of Namibia to familiarise themselves with the meat industry in the country.

The delegation from the Chinese Meat Association was represented by 20 delegates.

Namibia is in the process of obtaining access to the Chinese market for its beef products. Deputy agriculture permanent secretary, Sophia Kasheeta, said during the visit that access to markets contributes positively to economic growth in agriculture and the improvement of the living standards of the country's citizens.

The currently signed protocol between China and Namibia indicates that no beef may be exported within 12 months of the last confirmed case of lumpy skin disease. Discussions between the agricultural ministry and the Chinese ambassador in Namibia led to an undertaking to revise the protocol, and specifically the stipulation on lumpy skin disease.

The industry further requested that the export of bone-in beef and mutton, as well as offal and processed meat products from the Northern Communal Areas (NCAs), should be added to the protocol.

The Chinese delegation was led by Li Shuilong, president of the China Meat Association and vice-president of the International Meat Secretariat of which the Meat Board is also a member.

China is a critical market for Namibia as it imports 6.5 million tons of beef, 250 000 million tons of mutton, 2.3 million tons of pork and 1.7 million tons of chicken per annum.

Members of the KwaZulu-Natal provincial legislature also visited the Meat Board recently to explore the performance of the Namibian meat industry, as well as the traceability and farm-assured scheme systems the country deploys to export livestock to South Africa, and in particular to their province.

The delegation also gathered information on the structure of the meat industry and FAN Meat Scheme.

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Company news in brief

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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Company news in brief Naspers raises billions from Tencent sale

South Africa's Naspers has raised US$9.8 billion from the sale of a 2% stake in Chinese investment Tencent to strengthen its balance sheet and fund growth in its e-commerce businesses, it said on Friday.

Naspers said on Thursday it had no plans to reduce its holding further for the next three years, disappointing some investors who had called for it to spin off its 33% stake in China's biggest internet firm to close the widening gap between its own market value and the investment.

Naspers said it sold 190 million shares in Tencent via an accelerated bookbuilding process, reducing its holdings to 31.2%, to strengthen its finances and invest over time in its classifieds, online food delivery and fintech businesses globally.

The sale was priced at HK$405 per share, a discount of 7.8% to Tencent's closing price on Thursday.

Tencent saw its shares down 4.51% at the midday trading break on Friday. The decline wiped US$24 billion off Tencent's market value, though at US$508 billion, it is still Asia's most valuable listed company and fifth globally behind Apple Inc, Alphabet Inc, Amazon.com Inc and Microsoft Corp. – Nampa/Reuters

Dropbox IPO priced higher than expected

Dropbox Inc's initial public offering, the largest tech stock debut in more than a year, was priced at US$21 per share, the company announced on Thursday, higher than expected.

At US$21, the San Francisco-based company will have a market cap of about US$9.18 billion on a fully diluted share count.

The cloud-based file-storage firm on Wednesday raised the expected price range by US$2 to US$18 to US$20 per share, on the back of strong demand.

The IPO raised about US$756 million in the largest tech IPO since Snap Inc raised US$3.9 billion in its debut last year. Dropbox shares started trading on Friday at the Nasdaq under the symbol "DBX."

The strong pricing bodes well for other highly anticipated IPOs from tech unicorns, or startups valued at more than US$1 billion. – Nampa/Reuters

Goldman Sachs no longer in top 3

Goldman Sachs lost its place among the top three earners of commodities-related revenue in 2017, falling below rivals JPMorgan, Morgan Stanley and Citibank for the first time, data from analytics firm Coalition showed.

US-based investment bank Goldman has been among the top three since Coalition started compiling the figures in 2010, having a longstanding reputation for generating revenue from commodities trading, derivatives and other activities.

However, last year Goldman's commodities business posted one of its worst results on record and it is now trying to boost performance, creating a new commodities finance team to drum up business from corporate clients.

Coalition said JPMorgan and Morgan Stanley had the largest revenue in the commodities sector last year, followed by Citi. Coalition ranks the twelve largest investment banks. It did not provide revenue figures.

Last year Goldman led the rankings, followed by JPMorgan and Citi in third place. Morgan Stanley was last placed in the top three in 2014, when it ranked third. – Nampa/Reuters

Transnet signs deal with South32

South Africa's state-owned freight company Transnet has signed a new deal with manganese miner South32 to export 2.6 million tonnes a year of the mineral to European and Chinese markets, the companies said on Thursday.

South Africa accounts for close to 75% of global manganese reserves, Transnet said. The firm, which operates nearly three-quarters of the African rail network, the bulk of which is in South Africa, provides rail export lines for the country's main commodities including coal and iron ore.

Gert de Beer, Transnet's new business development officer, said the firm will earn an estimated R10.4 billion from the seven-and-a-half year manganese export deal.

He said a total of 12.5 million tonnes of manganese will be transported every year once Transnet signs contracts with nine local manganese producers, including South32. Most of the mineral will be from the Northern Cape province and will be hauled on the Saldanha and Port Elizabeth ore railway lines.

Transnet said the contract with South32 will be back-dated, and will run from September 2015 until March 2023. – Nampa/Reuters

Deep-seated health challenges

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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Deep-seated health challengesNamibia must repair ailing healthcare system Inadequate human resources and budget cuts are some of the perennial problems still haunting the country's public healthcare sector. The ministry of health's goal to provide quality healthcare to all has been an uphill battle since independence, with notable achievements along the way - in addition to frequent challenges.

Over the past two years, the public health sector has been dealt one of its most significant setbacks, with sweeping measures imposed across government to cut spending in line with the country's economic crisis.

The ministry, headed by Dr Bernard Haufiku, emphasised that cost-cutting will not compromise patient care where possible, but compromises have been inevitable.

Manga Libita, spokesperson for the ministry, told Namibian Sun that the challenges haunting the public health sector are multiple.

Inadequate human resources top the list of problems.

“These range from medical specialists, medical officers, pharmacists, nurses, and all allied health professionals such as social workers, radiographers and environmental health practitioners,” she said.

Libita said the ratio of health professionals to the population remains far lower than that recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

While WHO recommends that the ideal ratio of health professionals to population be 1:435, the current ratio of medical officers to the population is 1 to 4 234.

Registered nurses in the public sector stand at 1 to 761.

Huge gaps are visible in the ratios of pharmacists, who number 1 to 20 881 to the population.

A dire lack of social workers is also identified, with a ratio of 1 social worker for 12 586 people.

Inadequate quantity of high technology medical equipment is another problem.

“The challenges are further compounded by dwindling financial resources … This means that, although there may be health professionals who are ready to join the job market, inadequate financing would not allow the ministry to recruit.”

In February Haufiku commended international aid partners and other stakeholders for their continued and critical support to public health in Namibia, which has helped the ministry in numerous ways.

Libita said the priorities for the upcoming financial year include increasing the ratio of health professionals, and reducing patient waiting times at health facilities.

The ministry further intends to implement electronic health systems and aim to equip all levels of health facilities with essential medical equipment.

Infrastructure development will be accelerated, she said.



A good run so far

Libita said despite challenges, the public health sector has notched a number of successes on their goalpost since 1990.

“The state of public healthcare improved tremendously after independence,” she said.

Shortly after independence, an emphasis on primary healthcare, which focuses on disease prevention and health promotion, was implemented.

“As a result, more health facilities, especially clinics, were constructed to increase access to healthcare services.”

In February, Namibian Sun reported the inauguration of a new maternity waiting home constructed through funding from the European Union (EU) in the Omaheke Region.

Another maternal waiting home was also opened at Opuwo.

Libita further pointed out that there have been significant improvements in the field of HIV/Aids.

Last year, Haufiku noted that about 10% of Namibians or 247 126 live with HIV according to 2016 statistics.

HIV remains the leading cause of death in Namibia since 1996, but its prevalence dropped by over 60% between 2006 and 2015.

Another achievement an overall reduction in maternal deaths, although Namibia still falls short of global targets.

According to recent statistics, Namibia's infant mortality rate currently stands at 39 deaths per 1 000 births.

The country's maternal mortality ratio is currently estimated at 130 deaths per 100 000 live births, while 18% of pregnant women attending the country's antenatal clinics are living with HIV.



Serious concerns

Nevertheless, problems remain.

The Legal Assistance Centre's Sharen Zenda and Corinna van Wyk of the social justice department emphasised that many challenges faced by the state healthcare system “stems from poor management of hospitals and lack of innovative thinking in terms of improving the whole system.”

A further challenge is that specialised medical care is centralised.

“Hence people from the different regions can only access specialist care if they come to Windhoek.”

They noted that it frequently happens that serious conditions of state patients are not diagnosed and “patients often are sent home with Panado prescriptions”.

Zenda and Van Wyk concluded that “at the moment the state of our healthcare system is of serious concern.”

Their offices are inundated with medical negligence matters on a daily basis and litigating does not seem to reduce the numbers.

She said reports of negligence appear frequently, such as pregnant women camping in the open to access healthcare, state clinics restricting how many pre-natal patients are attended to and turning the rest away.

The pair added, however, that “needless to say that the system includes competent medical staff with a passion for human life, as well as state facilities and available medicines in the rural areas and villages,” which are some of the positive aspects in the sector.



The brunt of it

Reports from 2017 found that the ministry's attempts to keep patients out of the cost-cutting fray, could not be allayed completely.

State patients who needed hip or knee replacements were forced to buy their own, costly, prostheses, as reportedly payments to suppliers were significantly in arrears.

Towards the end of the year, doctors in Windhoek submitted a hand-written letter to the Haufiku, exposing a critical shortage of medical supplies at state hospitals.

A long-standing feud moreover was revealed between Haufiku and former health permanent secretary Andreas Mwoombola.

Mwoombola was eventually transferred to the Office of the Prime Minister in December.

The ministry later blamed the shortages of medical supplies on a new central procurement system.



JANA-MARI SMITH

US trophy lawsuit may impact Namibia

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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US trophy lawsuit may impact Namibia The Namibian trophy hunting industry may feel the brunt of an unfolding lawsuit in the US that is challenging the Donald Trump administration for “secretly” implementing a new policy on the import of elephant and lion trophies.

Several animal conservation groups last week filed the lawsuit which is challenging the American government's recent decision to consider big game trophy import applications on a case-by-case basis, instead of scientific country evidence.

Essentially, all trophies will be allowed into the US.

The lawsuit was brought by four groups, including the Humane Society and the Centre of Biological Diversity, and names US interior secretary Ryan Zinke as a defendant.

The lawsuit extensively mentions Namibia's conservation and the impact that Trump's new policy will have on the country, should it remain unchallenged.

Reports indicate that Namibia is the third largest exporter of trophies to the US.

“Through our lawsuit, we are demanding that no elephant or lion trophy import permits be issued while the US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) conducts a thorough scientific and public review of elephant and lion hunting in Africa,” the conservation groups said in a statement.

The groups are asking a federal court in Washington DC to rule that the FWS did not follow the proper process to make its 1 March decision, which withdrew a series of Endangered Species Act findings that apply to some African elephants, lions and bontebok, a type of antelope.

This decision allowed open imports of trophies into the country and these findings also apply to Namibia. The groups also say the decision violates the Endangered Species Act adding that the new FWS guidelines are unlawful and that they violate the Endangered Species Act.

“In a document filed in federal court, the US department of justice said the FWS had withdrawn, effective March 1, Obama-era protections [of elephant, lion and other trophies]. The FWS signalled it will continue to rely on outdated and unsupported findings authorising the import of elephant trophies from Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Namibia, and lion trophies from South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zambia,” the groups added.

The lawsuit follows after a court ruling in December that the Trump administration needed to involve the public when making trophy import decisions. However instead of complying, the US interior department officials adopted a case-by-case permitting approach that fails to comprehensively consider the impacts of trophy hunting and severely decreases transparency, the groups say.

According to the conservation groups, ending these trophy import bans and issuing trophy import permits without comprehensive review, thwarts the ruling from December that requires the FWS to seek public comment and input from all stakeholders, before making decisions about whether trophy hunting in a particular country promotes the conservation of a species threatened with extinction.

Trump in November also described big-game trophy hunting as a “horror show,” and in January pledged to uphold the ban on importing trophies.

“Catering to the whims of a handful of wealthy Americans who want to display elephant and lion trophies to display their hunting prowess, FWS is going against the wishes of the majority of Americans who believe that the animals, and the nations where they thrive, are better off without trophy hunters,” the groups said.

Trophy hunting is a significant contributor to the economy of Namibia generating millions every year. Last year the environment ministry said conservancies on average generated about N$100 million a year through trophy hunting. About N$450 million is generated from hunting on private game farms per annum and trophy hunting generates around N$10 million in revenue for government annually.

In addition, about 15 000 jobs are created from hunting in various categories, including professional hunters, hunting guides, skinners and trackers.

A report published in 2016 indicates that Namibia is among the top three exporters of trophies to the US with 76 347 trophies (6%) that were exported from Namibia.

Between 2005 and 2014, more than 1.26 million wildlife trophies were imported to the US, with an average of more than 126 000 trophies every year. Most originated in Canada and South Africa, but other top countries of origin included Namibia, Mexico, Zimbabwe, New Zealand, Tanzania, Argentina, Zambia and Botswana.

According to the report African lion trophy hunts can cost between US$13 500 to 49 000.



ELLANIE SMIT

Hunting Gold Coast glory

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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Hunting Gold Coast glory27 Namibians among Commonwealth competitors Excitement is building all over the world as the clock counts down to the 2018 Commonwealth Games, slated Namibia's 27 athletes will join those from a host of other countries that will be heading to Gold Coast, Australia for the 2018 Commonwealth Games, and who will be eager to contend for medals.

This spectacular sporting event provides athletes with opportunities and the benefit of gaining sporting experience, with Namibian athletes joining the bandwagon, even though funds have been hard to source.

The Namibia National Olympic Committee (NNOC) received N$4 million from the Namibia Sports Commission (NSC) to make the dream of competing a reality for our local athletes, who will be eager to show their mettle in in athletics, bowling, boxing, cy­cling, gymnastics, para-sport and the triathlon.

NNOC secretary-general Joan Smit said the games is among the pinnacles in sporting achievement and sets the tone for the Olympic Games that will take place in two years' time.

“The games are preparatory for athletes who hope and dream to become Olympians. It's a benchmark to determine what they need to work on before reaching the Olympics.”

Smit said the qualification criteria were very high as they wanted to send medal contenders to the Commonwealth Games.

“There were international events which the local athletes took part in to qualify. Most worked really hard and qualified. The athletes are in great shape, well-prepared and ready,” she said.

Namibia has won a healthy 18 medals in total at past Commonwealth Games, including three golds, four silvers and 11 bronze medals. Legendary sprinter Frank Fredericks alone has won two golds, one silver and a bronze

Recently boxing sensation Junias Jonas clinched a silver medal in Glasgow four years ago, while Lahja Ishitile took bronze at the same games.

The spotlight is now once again on our local athletes to bring home medals.

Medal hopefuls

Namibian triathlon athlete Jean-Paul Burger recently won a gold medal in the South African trail championships and a bronze medal at the Africa Cup in Zimbabwe.

The athlete, who resides in South Africa, shared that he has been taking part in many races in order to gain points.

He emphasised that he is excited about the Commonwealth Games, but is also building momentum towards the 2020 Olympic Games.

“This is definitely one of the biggest motivations that drives me to train hard and continue on days that I don't feel like training. The qualification for the Olympics starts on 11 May 2018. There are very complicated qualifying criterion, but basically it boils down to having more races internationally, more specifically in Europe.

“I need to gain as much points as possible and must ensure that I'm in the top 70 on the world points list by the beginning of the 2020 calendar year,” Burger said.

Elite cyclist Dan Craven recently won the Nedbank Cycling Challenge and is in top form.

Vera Adrian won the same race in the women's category and also took silver at the 40th Cape Town Cycle Tour recently.

Junias, who will once again be boxing at the Commonwealth Games, said he would be doing his talking in the ring and that “everyone should wait and see”.

Ananias Shikongo who recently returned from the World Para-Athletics Grand Prix Competition in Dubai, where he bagged three medals, said preparations are running smoothly and he plans to do his best.

What is the Commonwealth?

The Commonwealth Games take place every four years. The previous edition was held in 2014 in Glasgow, Scotland.

The event was first held in Hamilton, Canada in 1930, when 11 countries sent a total of 400 athletes to take part.

Fast-forward to Glasgow 2014 and more than 4 500 athletes from 71 nations competed in 17 sports over 11 days

The Commonwealth is a collection of countries that were previously territories that formed part of the British Empire.

What can be expected?

In short, a lot of excitement which will take place across 18 sports and seven para-sports.

More than 6 600 athletes and team officials from 70 nations and territories will all gather at the Gold Coast for the games.

The sports are athletics, weightlifting, volleyball, squash, wrestling, shooting, hockey, badminton, basketball, bowls, boxing, cycling, diving, gymnastics, table tennis, netball, rugby sevens, swimming and triathlon.

The Namibian delegation is as follows:

Athletics: Madeleine Kotze (manager), Robert Kaxuxuena (coach), Helalia Johannes, Ndeshimona Ekandjo, Lavinia Haitope, Paulus Iiyambo, Reonard Namupala, Uveni Kugongelwa, Roger Haitengi and Hardus Maritz.

Bowling: Sheena du Toit, Johanna van den Berg, Anuleen Viljoen, Lesley Vermeulen, Graham Snyman, Carel Olivier, Douw Calitx and Willem Esterhuizen.

Boxing: Israel Hamtumbangela, Kashera Shiyemo (coach/manager), Mathias Hamunyela, Triyagain Ndevelo and Jonas Junias.

Cycling: Irene Steyn, Hans du Toit (coach/manager) Tjipekapora Murangi (Mechanic), Michelle Vorster, Vera Adrian, Dan Craven, Martin Freyer, Drikus Coetzee and Tristan De Lange.

Gymnastics: Lindsay Adams (coach/manager) and Robert Honiball.

Para-athletes: Barbara Fernandez (coach), Ananias Shikongo and Even Tjiviju (guide).

Triathlon: Erna Burger (coach/manager) and Jean-Paul Burger.

LIMBA MUPETAMI

Zim hopes to transform mining sector with mega deal

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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Zim hopes to transform mining sector with mega dealUS$4-billion project Pres Emmerson Mnangagwa says the deal shows things had changed since his ascendancy after Robert Mugabe's ousting in November. The landscape of Zimbabwe's mining industry will never be the same. - Winston Chitando, Mines minister MacDonald Dzirutwe – A Cypriot investor signed a US$4.2 billion deal on Thursday to develop a platinum mine and refinery in Zimbabwe, an investment that President Emmerson Mnangagwa said showed the country was "open for business".

Signing the agreement with Cyprus-based Karo Resources, mines minister Winston Chitando said work would start in July, with the first output of platinum group metals expected in 2020, aiming to reach 1.4 million ounces annually within three years.

Located in the Mhondoro-Ngezi platinum belt, west of Harare, where Impala Platinum Holdings has operations, the project will include a coal mine and power station to produce electricity for the smelter, and should employ 15 000 people when fully implemented, Karo head Loucas Pouroulis said.

Keen to revive the mining sector after years of reticence by foreign investors during Robert Mugabe's rule, Mnangagwa said the deal showed things had changed since his ascendancy after Robert Mugabe's ousting in November.

"Zimbabwe is open for business and whoever stands in the way, hurting business in this country, will fall. It is not business as usual anymore, things have to change," Mnangagwa said at the signing ceremony.

The project was first mooted six years ago but had been held back by government red tape and "other unnamed vested interests, which are corrupt interests," he said.

Chitando added: "This is the largest investment structure in the country's mining industry in Zimbabwe. The landscape of Zimbabwe's mining industry will never be the same."

Zimbabwe's government did not give details of the source of funding for such a big investment.

Industry sources, who asked not to be named, said there was no obligation to provide any cash until firmer plans for the development were in place.

Pouroulis

Cyprus-born Pouroulis spent his early career with industry giant Anglo American in South Africa, branching out on his own to establish more niche operators such as Petra Diamonds, Eland Platinum and Tharisa Minerals, according to his profile on Tharisa's website.

As well as heading Karo, Pouroulis is chairman and founder of Tharisa, in which his family has a 45% stake.

Tharisa, which has chrome and platinum operations in South Africa's Bushveld, has made clear its interest in the potential of Zimbabwe, which holds the world's second-largest platinum deposits after neighbouring South Africa.

The company, however, has a market capitalisation of only R5.5 billion, although it is well regarded by many city analysts and its share price has rallied 15% this year.

HSBC initiated covered of the stock on Thursday, rating it a buy. It predicted it would have a net cash position of US$185 million by the end of 2022 and said platinum prices should benefit from continued supply curtailment in South Africa because of regulatory and funding uncertainty.

Foreign investment stalled in Zimbabwe during the later years of Mugabe's reign.

Outlook

Analysts say the outlook is still uncertain, but interest is strong in a country that has rich, underexplored resources.

An investment conference on Zimbabwe in London recently was heavily oversubscribed.

Last Monday, Mnangagwa's government amended the Mugabe-era Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment Act, which aimed to increase black Zimbabweans' ownership of mines by preventing foreign entities holding majority stakes.

The revised law removed that stipulation for most types of mining, but not diamond and platinum mines.

Chitando said Karo Resources was expected to comply with the empowerment law by giving up majority ownership in the project. He did not elaborate. – Nampa/Reuters

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American accused sues for N$1.1m

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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American accused sues for N$1.1m American murder accused Marcus Thomas is suing the safety and security minister, the commissioner-general of correctional facilities and four prison wardens for N$1.1 million.

Thomas, who with fellow American citizen Kevan Donell Townsend is standing trial for the murder of Namibian citizen Andre Heckmair in Windhoek in 2011, is claiming N$500 000 for assault and torture, N$200 000 for emotional stress or post-traumatic stress disorder and N$400 000 for “constitutional damages”.

He claims he was assaulted at the Windhoek Correctional Facility.

According to him he was involved in a physical altercation with another inmate on 13 January 2017, and was initially separated from the prison population before being taken back to his cell in E Section.

He alleges he was summoned from E Section to the office of Silas Matheus, who is an officer at the prison.

Matheus was in the company of Esra ‘Swapo’ Kaisitungu, Josiah, Siambanga and a certain Shimbome, all of whom are prison wardens and respondents in the matter.

Thomas said he was asked to explain the physical altercation, but Matheus did not accept his explanation.

“In his view, I had a problem with all Africans,” Thomas said.

Matheus allegedly then ordered a prison warden to bring in another inmate, Reinhardt Itembu, who was ordered to beat Thomas, but refused to do so.

Thomas claimed he was ordered to sit on the office floor and an officer was told by Matheus to hand out plastic batons to the other wardens.

According to Thomas, Matheus told him that “all Americans are so arrogant” and that they are responsible for torturing people “at Guantanamo Bay near Cuba”.

An officer allegedly told Thomas that an attack on an inmate is an attack on all prison wardens and unknown officer immediately struck him with his fist on his head.

Matheus allegedly grabbed a baton, walked towards Thomas and ordered him to sit down, and when he refused and he struck him in the face.

“Thereafter each and every warden present in the room started to beat me all over my body,” Thomas said, who added that he did not fight back but simply covered his face.

He said his right arm was swollen and bleeding and he was locked up alone in a cell.

He said he was later examined and treated by a nurse at the correctional facility’s clinic.

Later he was taken by members of the Nampol Special Field Force for treatment at a Katutura hospital and was thereafter brought back to his single cell at the facility.

Matheus allegedly instructed his subordinate that Thomas should not receive visitors or be allowed to make phone calls.

Thomas said Manfred Tatamunua and Innocent Mukabi from the correctional service head office interviewed him regarding the assault.

He said he laid charges of attempted murder and assault against Matheus at the Katutura police station in March 2017.

The commissioner-general of correctional facilities conducted a disciplinary inquiry into Matheus’ conduct and charged him with assault, alternatively with conducting himself in a manner likely to discredit the good order and reputation of the service, Thomas said.

Meanwhile, it was confirmed last week that a bid by Thomas and Townsend to have Judge Christie Liebenberg recuse himself from the Heckmair murder trial had been dismissed.

The two accused have denied guilt on charges of murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, the import of firearm parts into Namibia without a licence, the possession of a firearm and ammunition without a licence and defeating or obstructing the course of justice or attempting to do so.

All of the charges are connected to the killing of the 25-year-old Heckmair, who was shot dead in a car in a quiet street in Klein Windhoek on 7 January 2011.

FRED GOEIEMAN

No one above the law - /Uirab

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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No one above the law - /UirabSwartz dismissed from Rehoboth council An investigation will now be carried out to establish if Willie Swartz is in possession of any assets that belong to the town council, be it a laptop, a house or cellphone. Reinstated Rehoboth Town Council CEO, Christophe /Uirab, says the dismissal of Willie Swartz, the town’s manager for human resources and corporate affairs, shows that no one is above the law.

“This is proof that nobody is above the law. What happened to Swartz is proof that nobody is above the laws of Namibia,” /Uirab said of Swartz’s suspension, who was appointed illegally.

Swartz was issued with an eviction letter last week Friday and instructed to vacate the council premises and surrender all its property.

"He has been instructed to vacate the premises based on the fact that an investigation found that his appointment was illegal. An investigation recommended that it was illegal and the minister approved this recommendation and tasked the council to implement the recommendations, " said /Uirab.

According to him, a platform was created to ensure that Swartz understood why he was suspended, with /Uirab adding that he could reapply for his job when the recruitment process starts, in due course.

“He has been duly informed; he got the letter [of eviction]. We created a platform to inform him,” said /Uirab.

/Uirab also said an investigation would be carried out to establish if Swartz is in possession of any assets that belong to the town council, be it a laptop, a house or cellphone.

When asked how soon the recently axed councillors, who were shown the door by newly appointed urban and rural development minister, Peya Mushelenga, would be replaced, /Uirab said that decision lies with the minister.

“That decision, the powers, is in the minister’s hands. The minister will know when a council will be appointed. We do not have the jurisdiction over that,” said /Uirab.

/Uirab was reinstated by Mushelenga when the councillors serving on the town council were axed recently.

A forensic investigation into the town's affairs in January 2016 concluded that Swartz's reappointment during the government recess in December 2015 was illegal.

Swartz also faces 20 “serious” disciplinary charges related to the alleged embezzlement of more than N$13 million and losses of N$1.8 million incurred by the council.

Attempts to get a hold of Swartz were unsuccessful at the time of going to press.

OGONE TLHAGE

Geingob to undertake state visit to China

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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Geingob to undertake state visit to China President Hage Geingob will undertake a state visit to China from 28 March to 3 April, following an invitation from the President Xi Jinping.

Geingob will be accompanied by First Lady Monica Geingos and several cabinet ministers, senior government officials and a contingent of business people from a variety of sectors.

The visit, Geingob said, comes at a time when Namibia is looking to strengthen its relations with China.

“My state visit to China will strengthen commercial relations, development cooperation and people to people exchanges between our two nations, with the aim of contributing meaningfully to our economic and industrial development,” said Geingob.

The statesman also said Namibia stands to learn significantly from China, which has seen its profile rise while becoming a major global player.

“We have a lot to learn from China, a major power, a key centre of excellence and technological innovation, and one that has been able to lift close to 800 million people out of poverty in less than four decades,” said Geingob.

He and his entourage will not travel with the presidential jet to China.

STAFF REPORTER

Otjozondjupa on track

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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Otjozondjupa on trackTriple winners eye another Newspaper Cup trophy The Otjozondjupa Region has set its sights firmly on winning another Newspaper Cup trophy. Defending champions and three time winners of The Namibian Newspaper Cup, Otjozondjupa Region, last week announced their 20 players and technical team for this year's tournament.

The 18th edition of the youth tournament will be held in Katima Mulilo from 30 March to 2 April, and for the first time includes a netball category.

Otjozondjupa team manager Rudolf Hipona told Nampa on Wednesday, although rain halted their preparations for a day, the team's plans are on track for them to defend the title they won last year.

“As defending champions we know that teams are gunning to beat us, but we will approach each game like it is our last game.

A total of 80% of the boys are new, but we have the needed experience from the technical team, as there were no changes made from the one we had last year,” Hipona said.

The members of the technical team are Samuel Jantze as head of delegation, Maradona Tsaoseb as administrator, executive member Gerson Uwiteb and head coach Robba Gurirab, assisted by Lee Hangula and Bokke Kandundu.

The team medic is Alli Esinque and the kit officer is Theophillus Kapetua.

Otjozondjupa first won the cup in Mariental in 2005, when they defeated hosts Hardap 1-0 in the final through a goal scored by Romanus Severes.

They went on to clinch their second and third victories in 2013 and 2017, beating the Omaheke and Erongo regions respectively. They were also runners-up on one occasion.

The 20-man squad is as follows: Mbanaune Tjihuro, Oabasen Kariseb, Phillip Simon and Erastus Mateus (Kingston United), Theophilus Kaom, Patrick Kudumo, Sedni Tsuseb and Question Remember Howaeb (Touch & Go), Uatirouzeu Mberiunana, Ngero Katua, Brinoldt Geiseb and Jovane Narib (Otjiwarongo Football Club), Albert Gaoab and Sergio Damaseb (Dynamos), Wilson Shiweda (Spoilers), Brian Nuwuseb (Roots), Hechter Hamaseb and Richildes Kupesera (Eleven Brothers) and Jackson Eliakim and Walton Nanuseb (Sundowns).

NAMPA

Australia admit to ball tampering

March 25, 2018, 3:00 pm

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Australia admit to ball tampering Australia opener Cameron Bancroft has been charged with altering the condition of the ball and faces a possible ban after he was caught on camera during the third day of the Cape Town Test against South Africa on Saturday.

The charge is a Level 2 offence under the ICC's Code of Conduct, with possible sanctions a fine of his match fee anywhere between 50 and 100%, with either three or four demerit points added to his record. Four demerit points would trigger an automatic one-Test ban.

“We just had discussions with the match officials. I've been charged with attempting to change the condition of the ball”.

“Once I was sighted on the big screens I panicked quite a lot.” He confirmed it was yellow tape used which he attempted to conceal in his pocket,” Bancroft said. Captain Steve Smith, meanwhile, confirmed Bancroft had been instructed to change the condition of the ball. “The leadership group knew about it. I'm not proud of it.”

Bancroft was captured putting a yellow object down the front of his pants moments before the umpires seemingly inquired what was in the fielder's pockets.

Footage later broadcast showed Bancroft rubbing the ball and then seemingly putting an object back in his pocket.

“In my opinion he has tampered with the ball, and used an object to do that,” former South Africa captain Graeme Smith said on commentary after the tea break. “Clearly he's hiding something away from the umpires and when they approach him he pulls something outside of his pocket. It is damning in my mind.

“You can see that he's taking something out of his pocket, using it on the ball, and once the message comes out (to the umpires) he's clearly hiding it away. When he gets approached he takes out the old sunglasses cleaner,” Smith added.

ANA