Latest news with #post-WorldCup
Yahoo
02-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Edinburgh measuring themselves against 'best in England'
Sean Everitt acknowledged the size of Edinburgh's task against Bath this weekend, as they try and beat "the best in England" to seal a place in the Challenge Cup final. The capital club have not made it to a European final for 10 years, since they lost to Gloucester in 2015, and now need to beat the side who are comfortably top of the Premiership, led by Finn Russell. "It's a massive task for us, we know Bath are the form team in the Premiership by some way, they've put a lot of good teams to bed," head coach Everitt said. "At the same time, we've got experienced players within our group, international players, so we're not daunted by the task ahead of us. It's going to be a great challenge to measure ourselves with the best in England." Edinburgh will be buoyed by the fact it's a home semi-final, something they achieved by finishing top of their pool in the group stages. "Every time we play at the Hive, we tend to feed off the energy of the crowd," Everitt added. "We've also got to give them something to cheer. "The Sharks game was an example of how they get behind the team. Our team gets very motivated from the support they get. The Hive will be buzzing." A further boost has been provided by the return of Jamie Ritchie, who some are tipping for a place on the British & Irish Lions tour with the squad announced next week. "He went through some adversity post-World Cup, but it shows the character of the person, the personality of him - he's a fighter," Everitt said. "He got over that disappointment and put in really good performances in the URC. "He was the turnover king in the URC last year and he's on a similar route this year. He's extended that form into international rugby as well. It's brilliant for him and we're very proud of what he's achieved."
The Age
30-04-2025
- Sport
- The Age
An extra year under Schmidt is gold for the Wallabies. But will Kiss be ready for the World Cup?
After too many periods of 'starting again' with a new Wallabies coaching team, the bedrock theme for RA was continuity. Kiss emerged as the leading candidate, ahead of Stephen Larkham and Dan McKellar, based on his background with Schmidt at Ireland, and a similar 'boring', process-driven style that would see him best suited to picking up the same ball and running with it. Michael Cheika was spoken to, and so was Stuart Lancaster. The latter was interviewed several times, and a coaching team of Kiss and Lancaster was considered. But that combination fell away when it became clear Queensland were still keen for Kiss to coach the Reds next year, as per his contract. Rugby Australia were also keen to not have the Reds have to start over, and potentially affect the strong form of many Wallabies in the squad. So there wasn't as much tension as people assume between RA and the QRU. The prospect of Kiss juggling both roles was discussed, but he didn't feel comfortable with it, so a different solution was put back on the table by high-performance boss Peter Horne: would Schmidt hold the fort for another eight Tests? 'It's funny, it seemed like a long time, but then, by the time I'd already agreed to do TRC, it didn't seem that much further into the future,' Schmidt said. 'So I suppose, as you stack them up, it didn't seem like an extra year. It seemed like an extra sort of six months or eight months.' Does this help the Wallabies chances at the World Cup? Given the Wallabies' trajectory in 2024 - from a post-World Cup basket case to beating England and almost beating Ireland on the road - the public verdict is in: more Joe is good Schmidt. Another year's development under Schmidt, with his focus on high standards and detail, will unquestionably make the Wallabies a stronger team come July 2026. Winning as many Tests as possible in 2025 is vital, too, given that seedings for the 2027 Rugby World Cup will be based on the world rankings at the end of this year. Australia need to climb from eighth to sixth or above to be one of the top seeds for the six pools, and avoid the playoff-path lottery faced by second seeds (teams 7-12). But amid the good vibes about Schmidt staying longer, the uncomfortable part that can't be ignored is that Kiss will still - eventually - end up holding the baby on his own. And now he has even less time to find his feet. Between August 2026 and the Rugby World Cup, Kiss will only have 14 months, and 18-19 Tests, with the Wallabies. Kiss has spent many years in Test rugby, with Ireland, and has even coached at two World Cups. But being a head coach is different gravy, and being a head coach under the pressure of a home Rugby World Cup is wildly different gravy. As seen with the Matildas, RA need the Wallabies to be successful at the 2027 Rugby World Cup to win hearts and minds. Particularly with the NRL expanding in 2028. That's undeniable pressure on Kiss, regardless of whether the baton handover was smooth or not. Will Kiss bring his own staff? Is there a chance Schmidt will stay? Schmidt said he plans to be fishing and golfing in Lake Taupo in 2027, although people close to the Kiwi point out his fishing rod and golf clubs have been getting a mention for at least a decade, in which he's taken on several major roles. Schmidt said he would be an informal sounding board, but Kiss appears to still have hope about wrangling something more. Schmidt is an all-in head coach, though, and floating above Kiss wouldn't be his style. Kiss was adamant on Wednesday that he won't use the next year to simultaneously coach the Reds and serve an apprenticeship at the Wallabies. He doesn't want feet in both camps, which will help placate his Super Rugby rivals. But Schmidt will undoubtedly consult Kiss on all planning and future contracting and serve as a like-minded proxy. Loading The 'dovetail' transition mentioned by Kiss is likely to see most of the current Wallabies coaching staff through to the 2027 World Cup, bar scrum coach Mike Cron, who is due to finish after the Lions series. Kiss is keen to bring up some Reds staff as well, though. Forwards coach Zane Hilton and defence coach Brad Davis have been mentioned, although Hilton is the likely successor for Kiss at the Reds.
Sydney Morning Herald
30-04-2025
- Sport
- Sydney Morning Herald
An extra year under Schmidt is gold for the Wallabies. But will Kiss be ready for the World Cup?
After too many periods of 'starting again' with a new Wallabies coaching team, the bedrock theme for RA was continuity. Kiss emerged as the leading candidate, ahead of Stephen Larkham and Dan McKellar, based on his background with Schmidt at Ireland, and a similar 'boring', process-driven style that would see him best suited to picking up the same ball and running with it. Michael Cheika was spoken to, and so was Stuart Lancaster. The latter was interviewed several times, and a coaching team of Kiss and Lancaster was considered. But that combination fell away when it became clear Queensland were still keen for Kiss to coach the Reds next year, as per his contract. Rugby Australia were also keen to not have the Reds have to start over, and potentially affect the strong form of many Wallabies in the squad. So there wasn't as much tension as people assume between RA and the QRU. The prospect of Kiss juggling both roles was discussed, but he didn't feel comfortable with it, so a different solution was put back on the table by high-performance boss Peter Horne: would Schmidt hold the fort for another eight Tests? 'It's funny, it seemed like a long time, but then, by the time I'd already agreed to do TRC, it didn't seem that much further into the future,' Schmidt said. 'So I suppose, as you stack them up, it didn't seem like an extra year. It seemed like an extra sort of six months or eight months.' Does this help the Wallabies chances at the World Cup? Given the Wallabies' trajectory in 2024 - from a post-World Cup basket case to beating England and almost beating Ireland on the road - the public verdict is in: more Joe is good Schmidt. Another year's development under Schmidt, with his focus on high standards and detail, will unquestionably make the Wallabies a stronger team come July 2026. Winning as many Tests as possible in 2025 is vital, too, given that seedings for the 2027 Rugby World Cup will be based on the world rankings at the end of this year. Australia need to climb from eighth to sixth or above to be one of the top seeds for the six pools, and avoid the playoff-path lottery faced by second seeds (teams 7-12). But amid the good vibes about Schmidt staying longer, the uncomfortable part that can't be ignored is that Kiss will still - eventually - end up holding the baby on his own. And now he has even less time to find his feet. Between August 2026 and the Rugby World Cup, Kiss will only have 14 months, and 18-19 Tests, with the Wallabies. Kiss has spent many years in Test rugby, with Ireland, and has even coached at two World Cups. But being a head coach is different gravy, and being a head coach under the pressure of a home Rugby World Cup is wildly different gravy. As seen with the Matildas, RA need the Wallabies to be successful at the 2027 Rugby World Cup to win hearts and minds. Particularly with the NRL expanding in 2028. That's undeniable pressure on Kiss, regardless of whether the baton handover was smooth or not. Will Kiss bring his own staff? Is there a chance Schmidt will stay? Schmidt said he plans to be fishing and golfing in Lake Taupo in 2027, although people close to the Kiwi point out his fishing rod and golf clubs have been getting a mention for at least a decade, in which he's taken on several major roles. Schmidt said he would be an informal sounding board, but Kiss appears to still have hope about wrangling something more. Schmidt is an all-in head coach, though, and floating above Kiss wouldn't be his style. Kiss was adamant on Wednesday that he won't use the next year to simultaneously coach the Reds and serve an apprenticeship at the Wallabies. He doesn't want feet in both camps, which will help placate his Super Rugby rivals. But Schmidt will undoubtedly consult Kiss on all planning and future contracting and serve as a like-minded proxy. Loading The 'dovetail' transition mentioned by Kiss is likely to see most of the current Wallabies coaching staff through to the 2027 World Cup, bar scrum coach Mike Cron, who is due to finish after the Lions series. Kiss is keen to bring up some Reds staff as well, though. Forwards coach Zane Hilton and defence coach Brad Davis have been mentioned, although Hilton is the likely successor for Kiss at the Reds.
Zawya
21-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Techno Q concludes its 2025 ordinary & extraordinary general assembly
DOHA, QATAR – Qatar Electronic Systems Company (Techno Q) Q.P.S.C. successfully held its Ordinary & Extraordinary General Assembly Meeting on Tuesday, 15 April 2025, with a shareholder attendance rate of 87.91%. The meeting was chaired by Mr. Abdul Latif Mohamed Al Jaidah, Chairman of the Board of Directors and convened at the Mondrian Hotel in Doha. During the session, shareholders approved all points on the agenda's of both meetings, including the ratification of the audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended 31 December 2024 and the distribution of a cash dividend of QAR 0.142 per share, representing 14.20% of the nominal share value, totaling QAR 12 million. In his opening remarks, the Chairman expressed gratitude to His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and national leadership for their continued support to the private sector, reaffirming the company's commitment to national development goals. 2024 Performance Overview The Board of Directors presented a comprehensive report outlining Techno Q's strategic and financial achievements. Despite a cautious market environment and post-World Cup economic contraction in Qatar, Techno Q demonstrated resilience with consolidated revenue of QAR 211.2 million and net profit of QAR 21.4 million, up from QAR 19.7 million in 2023. The Group also achieved a gross profit of QAR 72.7 million, with a 34.4% gross margin, reflecting enhanced operational efficiency. The company strengthened its financial position through effective cost management and low debt levels, closing the year with QAR 122.5 million in equity and minimal borrowings of just QAR 0.7 million. Strategic Developments In response to increasing regional demand, Techno Q: Reopened its Oman office to serve infrastructure and technology opportunities, Launched a new IT Business Unit focusing on digital transformation, cybersecurity, and enterprise software solutions, Received national recognition as 'Best Systems Integrator' by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. These initiatives are in line with Techno Q's long-term vision to expand its footprint in key GCC markets and offer vertically integrated solutions across sectors. Shareholders ratified also: Discharged the Board of Directors from liability for FY 2024. Reappointed KPMG as the external auditor for FY 2025, with their fees duly specified. Approved the Nominations and Remuneration Policy, reinforcing the Company's governance framework. Looking Ahead Commenting on the year ahead, Mr. Zeyad Al Jaidah, Managing Director and Co-Founder stated: 'We are focused on scaling our core capabilities while entering high-impact domains such as managed IT services and digital security. Our market positioning, strong financial health, and innovation-driven mindset will drive Techno Q's next growth chapter across Qatar, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.' During the Extraordinary General Assembly meeting, the amendment to the Company's Articles of Association was approved to include seven (7) additional commercial activities. Furthermore, the Chairman of the Board and his Deputy were authorized to take the necessary actions to implement this resolution. The meeting concluded with appreciation to shareholders, partners, and employees for their trust and commitment to the Company's strategic journey. About Techno Q Techno Q is a regional Systems Integrator specializing in Audiovisual, Extra Low Voltage, Broadcast Infrastructure, IT Business Solutions, Lighting Systems and Hospitality Solutions. Our commitment to quality and innovation has positioned us as a regional entity in designing, installing, and maintaining advanced technical infrastructures. For almost three decades, we have diligently served a diverse clientele. Our projects span across numerous sectors including corporate, education, government, healthcare, hospitality, and public venues. By tailoring our solutions to meet the unique needs of each client, Techno Q ensures that every integration not only enhances the functionality of a space but also elevates the user experience to new heights. Since our inception in 1996, Techno Q has been at the forefront of innovation, driving change and progress in the fiercely competitive regional market. Our growth is not just a measure of time but a testament to our commitment to excellence, our passion for innovation, and our unwavering dedication to delivering innovative solutions.
Zawya
21-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Qatar-Australia trade grows 10.2%, cementing strong ties
Doha, Qatar: The Qatar-Australia relationship is robust and steadily growing, with Qatar ranking among Australia's top three trading partners in the MENA region. The two-way trade in goods and services reached A$3.4bn (QR8bn) as of 2023, reflecting an increase of 10.2 percent from 2022, an official explained. In an exclusive interview with The Peninsula, Gonul Serbest, Commissioner for Victoria to Europe, the Middle East, Turkiye, and Africa at the Victorian Government Trade and Investment, noted that the Australian state of Victoria and Qatar play a key role in strengthening trade ties, especially in education, health, research, and innovation. 'Victoria state is pleased to be able to contribute to this momentum, and while our exports to Qatar have traditionally been dominated by agricultural goods, in particular meat and dairy, we are seeing a diversification of exports given Qatar's bold vision and post-World Cup legacy initiatives,' she said. From an investment perspective, Australia and Qatar Airways have played a vital part in connecting the two regions. Serbest said, 'Last year marked 15 years of direct flights between Melbourne and Doha, which has been a key enabler of trade, tourism, and people-to-people links.' 'Melbourne-Doha was the airline's first Australian route, beginning December 2009. Qatar Airways is also a key supporter of Victoria's sport and major events calendar, given its role as Global Partner and Official Airline of the Australian Formula 1 in Melbourne and Official Airline & Cargo Airline Partner of MotoGP in Philip Island,' she said. The official stated that while there is a strong foundation and positive momentum, there is still room to strengthen and diversify the relationship further as the countries continue to build on this base, supporting more Qatari Australian collaborations in the years ahead. To strengthen the relationship between Victoria and Qatar, Serbest visited Doha this year and held talks with senior representatives from key organisations, including the Qatar Foundation, Invest Qatar (the Investment Promotion Agency of Qatar), the Qatar Chamber of Commerce, Qatar Airways, and Aspire Academy. She said, 'Our discussions focused on expanding and deepening bilateral trade and investment ties, particularly in sectors where there is strong alignment and synergies such as sports, education, health, climate action, technology, and of course, food and agriculture.' In terms of the education sector, she said Victoria is a 'global leader' in quality, innovation, and inclusion. There are currently several ongoing conversations between Qatari and Victorian universities to collaborate in teaching bachelor, and postgraduate courses in Qatar. Serbest said, 'This presents an exciting and promising development in the relationship.' On the other hand, she lauded Qatar's heritage and tradition and was 'deeply impressed' with the city's commitment to design excellence and modern architecture with its cultural identity. 'It's a powerful example of how design can elevate urban environments while honouring cultural roots,' she said. Serbest emphasised that Sport is a 'powerful connector' between the two countries as she noted that Victoria is uniquely positioned to drive economic development through various sports, including the Grand Slam tennis tournament and Formula 1 Grand Prix. 'Qatar has emerged as a global player and hub for major sporting events, with a growing focus on grassroots development, and therefore, the potential for collaboration is significant,' she added. The Commissioner also praised the support and leadership of the Australian Embassy in Doha, Ambassador H E Shane Flanagan, and the team. © Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( The Peninsula Newspaper
