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Will Manchester City be back on top of the Premier League next season?

Last time round, Pep Guardiola’s team endured a nightmare campaign, losing 17 times across all competitions, seeing their historic sequence of four successive Premier League titles come to an end.

As they aim to change that, Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Aït-Nouri and Sverre Nypan have all been signed so far this summer, but are the Sky Blues now aiming to make a marquee addition that could restore their position of dominance?

Manchester City seeking a statement signing

Even by the usually astronomical high standards, the Premier League’s biggest clubs have been spending an enormous amount this summer already, and we’re not even into August yet, as the table below documents.

Liverpool

5

£294m

Chelsea

8

£227m

Arsenal

6

£187m

Manchester United

2

£136m

Manchester City

5

£125m

Tottenham Hotspur

6

£124m

Please note: all information is correct at the time of publication

As the table documents, all of the Premier League’s traditional heavyweights have spent big this summer, most notably Liverpool.

The reigning champions have already splurged almost £300m to sign Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitiké, Miloš Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong and Giorgi Mamardashvili, but a report by Mark Ogden of ESPN claims they’re willing to spend as much as £165m to sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle, with the Swede pushing for the move, which would be quite the statement signing.

In response, reports in Spain claim that Manchester City have ‘made an initial offer’ of £170m to Chelsea in an attempt to re-sign Cole Palmer, adding that he is valued at closer to £250m by the Blues, which would smash the world-transfer record of €222m held by Neymar.

Palmer joined the Citizens’ academy as an eight-year-old, making just 41 appearances for the first team, 28 of which came as a substitute, thereby leaving for Chelsea two summers ago for a reported fee of £42.5m, in search of more opportunities.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Well, from Man City’s point of view, this has turned out to be one of the great modern-day transfer market mistakes, given Palmer’s form in West London, with former Crystal Palace striker Clinton Morrison asserting back in December that “he is the best player in the Premier League… of that there is no doubt”.

Now though, is Guardiola leading a sensational attempt to bring Palmer back to the Etihad?

How Cole Palmer's return would transform Manchester City

Just before his move to Chelsea, Palmer scored in both the FA Community Shield against Arsenal and the UEFA Super Cup against Sevilla but, even so, no one could’ve forecast the impact he would make at Stamford Bridge.

As the table below outlines, few have been more productive in front of goal in the Premier League since he joined Chelsea.

Mohamed Salah

47

28

75

Erling Braut Håland

49

8

57

Cole Palmer

37

19

56

Ollie Watkins

35

21

56

Alexander Isak

44

8

52

Jarrod Bowen

29

14

43

Son Heung-min

24

19

43

Bryan Mbeumo

29

13

42

Bukayo Saka

22

19

41

Matheus Cunha

27

13

40

As documented, only Mohamed Salah and Erling Braut Håland have registered more goals and assists across the last two Premier League campaigns than Palmer, made all the more remarkable by the fact that just three of his goals have come since Boxing Day, emphasising his incredible form beforehand.

Worth also noting that he’s accumulated four more than the aforementioned, in-demand Isak, despite the fact the Swede is a centre-forward. In all, the Englishman has provided 57 goals and assists in 89 Premier League games, only just behind Isak’s return of 63 goal involvements in 86 outings in England’s top-flight.

Palmer was also instrumental as Chelsea won the Club World Cup earlier this month, scoring twice against Paris Saint-Germain in the final, and the Conference League, with Jacob Steinberg of the Guardian describing his second-half performance against Real Betis in Wrocław as ‘astonishing’.

Meantime, Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout asserts that he is a Premier League “legend in the making”, while his manager, Enzo Maresca, described him as a “top player” who is “not normal”.

Selim Ben Hmida of Total Football Analysis outlines how Palmer is at his best when deployed as an ‘advanced playmaker’, given his ability to shoot from distance, create chances and drive into space.

Thus, while Isak is looking likely to be a frightening signing for Liverpool, Palmer would be a transformational acquisition for Man City, should they manage to re-sign him, given that the England international and Håland would surely form an unstoppable duo.

Better buy than Paqueta: Man City ready bid to sign "outstanding" £50m star

Manchester City could win themselves a better signing than Lucas Paqueta by landing this outstanding ace.

1 ByKelan Sarson Jul 28, 2025

Kobbie Mainoo is a player who appeared to be the future of Manchester United, but his future could now be in doubt over the next couple of years.

The 2023/24 campaign was a phenomenal one for the 20-year-old, scoring crucial goals against Wolves, Liverpool and even the FA Cup final triumph over rivals Manchester City.

However, the same can’t be said for last season, only making 19 starts in the Premier League and failing to register a single goal or assist – highlighting his decline under Ruben Amorim.

As a result, he’s been linked with various moves away from Old Trafford this summer, potentially being offloaded to raise funds for any additions the manager desires.

Should he stay, it could get even worse at the Theatre of Dreams for the Englishman, potentially falling further down the pecking order given the interest elsewhere.

The latest on Man Utd’s hunt for a new midfielder

Douglas Luiz is a player who’s been firmly on their radar this summer, potentially available for a bargain price after only starting three Serie A matches last campaign.

He’s been subject to talks already this window, with the Italian outfit opening to allowing him to join the Red Devils in any deal which could see Jadon Sancho move to Turin.

However, he’s not the only midfielder in Italy’s top flight currently in their sights, with Atalanta star Ederson another player under consideration, according to one Spanish outlet.

The report claims that higher-ups at Old Trafford have already held talks with the 26-year-old’s representatives over a potential deal, but it could set them back around £50m this summer.

It also states that Amorim’s side see him as one of the best options on the market for the midfield department, but it’s unclear if the player himself would be open to any move to England.

Why United’s £50m target could prove to be bad news for Mainoo

The midfield department at United already has a fair amount of quality, with the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro all already on the club’s books.

Given the other options, Mainoo has found minutes harder to come by, even having to feature in a false nine position at times last campaign, with the central midfield department one that’s already stacked.

Christian Eriksen was released at the end of his contract at the end of June, which raised funds and opened a gap for added minutes within the first team setup.

However, Mainoo may not be able to take advantage of the situation, especially given the recent rumours over a move to land Brazilian talent Ederson.

When comparing the pair’s respective figures from the most recent season, the Atalanta star has massively outperformed him in numerous key areas – potentially ending Mainoo’s time with the Red Devils should he join.

Ederson, who’s been labelled “one of the best midfielders in Seria A” by journalist Matteo Bonetti and registered more combined goals and assists, along with more shot-creating actions per 90 – highlighting the goalscoring threat he carries in front of goal.

He’s also thrived with the ball at his feet, completing more of the passes he’s attempted, with more passes into the final third per 90 – having the tools to provide those in front of him with added chances.

Games played

37

25

Goals & assists

5

0

Pass accuracy

87%

86%

Progressive passes

6.8

3.5

Passes into final third

6.1

2.7

Shot-creating actions

3.1

1.8

% of tackles won

65%

60%

Interceptions made

1.1

0.9

Carries into final third

1.8

0.9

Aerials won

60%

38%

The Brazilian’s dominance over the United youngster is further reflected out-of-possession, winning more of the tackles he’s entered, whilst also making more interceptions per 90, hence why Italian content creator Damiano Coccia has even claimed that Ederson is “the strongest defensive midfielder in the world.”

£50m for a player of Ederson’s quality could prove to be an excellent pickup, handing the side the elite-level talent at the heart of the squad they have been crying out for.

Mainoo is a player who was once seen as the future of the football club, but his playing time could well be further limited should the Atalanta star move to Old Trafford this summer.

Wilcox preparing bid to sign Man Utd's answer to Jude Bellingham this week

Manchester United appear to be making a huge move to land a superb young talent this summer.

ByEthan Lamb Jul 9, 2025

Nepal had played eight games at the Women’s Asia Cup in 2012 and 2016 combined, but couldn’t register a single win. Then they didn’t make the next two editions in 2018 and 2022. They almost missed the bus for the Women’s Asia Cup 2024 too, but a late tweak in rules in March 2024 brought Nepal here, and now they have their first-ever win in the competition.Riding on an unbeaten 72 from opener Samjhana Khadka and a three-wicket haul from captain Indu Barma, Nepal defeated the more-fancied UAE by six wickets in the tournament opener. They got home with 23 balls to spare after restricting UAE to 115 for 8 at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.Nepal finished as the semi-finalists in the qualifying tournament, the ACC Women’s Premier Cup in February 2024. But while releasing the schedule in March, the Asian Cricket Council announced that the semi-finalists of that tournament would be eligible to play the tournament, making it the biggest-ever edition. Nepal’s win on the opening day seems to validate that decision of expanding the tournament to more teams.

Khadka magic aided by UAE’s slips

Khadka came into the Asia Cup in good form. She was the leading run-getter in the Lalitpur Mayor Women’s Championship, Nepal’s domestic T20 competition, in May. Her success for the Sudur Paschim Province, the runners-up, was primarily at the top of the order. Though she had never opened the batting in her 16 previous T20Is, Nepal decided to capitalise on her domestic form by bumping her up to the top, and she did not disappoint.Khadka got going with a four by opening the face of the bat to guide Dharnidharka through backward point in the first over of the chase. She then showcased her power back-foot punches through cover in the third over, and Nepal were racing along. One of the characteristics of her knock was running between the wickets, which put pressure on the infielders. UAE crumbled under that pressure as Khadka did not miss out taking runs even on the half-stops.Khadka held her own even when Egodage varied her pace and flight. Egodage, the Colombo-born UAE player who was playing in Sri Lanka for the first time, dismissed Sita Rana Magar and Kabita Kunwar to return figures of 4-1-12-3. None of the other bowlers were able to exert enough pressure.The result? Khadka raced away to 50 off just 35 balls, the first half-century by a Nepal batter in the Women’s Asia Cup. She finished with her career-best T20I score – when she hit the winning runs – a score that was 56 more than the previous best by a Nepal batter in the competition.

Spinners trouble UAE

Nepal had pressed their seamers Kabita Kunwar and Sabnam Rai into action after opting to bowl. Even though they picked up two wickets – Esha Oza was run-out going for a non-existent single in the second over, and then Rinitha Rajith missed a wild hoick to be bowled on the next ball – the four overs they bowled in tandem went for 27. Once spin was introduced, the runs dried up.After a quiet fifth over by Rubina Chhetry, Indu Barma beat Theertha Satish at her own game in the final over of the powerplay. Theertha, the UAE opener, loves driving the ball on the up. She showed that aplenty at the start, even though she found the fielders. The stride forward, the straight bat, the timing – everything was there in the only four she hit in her knock. Barma challenged her to repeat it against her offspin, and she held onto a return catch. UAE were three down inside the powerplay.

Egodage and Khushi stage a mini-recovery

When Barma had Samaira Dharnidharka chip one to cover in the eighth over, UAE were 46 for 4. Khushi Sharma joined Kavisha Egodage at that point and the pair kept the scorecard ticking without taking too many risks. However, they could manage only two fours each and in their attempt to manufacture boundaries, they only found the fielders regularly and the running between the wickets was also marked by confusion.In a bid to take the aerial route against left-arm spinner Kritika Marasini, Egodage sliced one to backward point. Khushi changed gears after that but to little effect. Chhetry, Barma and Kabita Joshi’s offspin, and Sita Rana Magar and Marasini’s left-arm spin never let the momentum slip, as UAE were kept to a below-par total after losing 3 for 6 at the back end.

They might have finished second in the Premier League and made it to the semi-finals of the Champions League, but we aren’t sure anyone at Arsenal would consider this season to be a success.

Long gone are the days in which a top-four finish was celebrated like a trophy at the Emirates, as, thanks to Mikel Arteta and Co, the team are now serious contenders for every competition they enter – meaning a third runners-up medal in as many league campaigns is far from ideal.

Considering the team created the best defence in the league while scoring 17 goals fewer than the eventual winners, it’s pretty clear that to help the squad get over the line next year, the board must invest in offensive players.

This line of thinking may help to explain Arsenal’s reported interest in Aston Villa’s brilliant Morgan Rogers, although even if he were to join the club, he’d be worth millions less than one of his new teammates.

Why Arsenal want Rogers

So, if the reported price tag of around £100m proves to be true, just why do Arsenal want to spend that sort of money on one player, and would he even be worth it?

Market Movers

Football FanCast’s Market Movers series explores the changing landscape of the modern transfer market. How much is your club’s star player or biggest flop worth today?

Well, the answer to the second question is most certainly yes, and there are a few reasons why, starting with his output.

For example, in 54 appearances for Villa this season, totalling 4496 minutes, the Halesowen-born star was able to score 14 goals and provide 15 assists.

That comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.86 games or every 155.03 minutes, and that is just the sort of offensive capability the North Londoners need in their squad.

For example, Martin Odegaard is the team’s current starting attacking midfielder, and while he’s been brilliant in seasons past, he really struggled this year, ending the campaign with six goals and 12 assists in 45 appearances, totalling 3447 minutes, which comes out to a goal involvement on average every 2.5 games, or every 191.5 minutes.

Just imagine if Arteta could take the Norwegian off, or rest him completely, and start the dynamic Englishman in his place.

Finally, at just 22 years old, the five-capped international could grow alongside some of the team’s other younger stars, and then there is his ability to play in multiple positions, from midfield to out wide.

Left Winger

83

21

9

Attacking Midfield

46

14

10

Right Winger

39

9

13

Centre-Forward

21

6

4

Left Midfield

8

3

1

Right Midfield

6

1

3

Second Striker

1

0

0

Yet, even then and at the fee reported, Rogers would be joining Arsenal with a lower valuation than one of his new teammates.

The Arsenal star worth millions more than Rogers

Now, while Arsenal are blessed with a host of incredibly talented players these days, from Declan Rice and David Raya to William Saliba and Jurrien Timber, it’ll likely come as no surprise that the star in question is none other than Bukayo Saka.

The Hale End superstar has developed into a talismanic figure in North London since his debut under Unai Emery, and his valuation reflects that, with the CIES Football Observatory pricing him at a whopping €157m earlier this year.

That converts to a staggering £132m, or £32m more than Rogers could end up costing the Gunners this summer, and while that is a sizable difference, it would be hard to argue it’s not fair.

Appearances

37

54

Minutes

2619′

4496′

Goals

12

14

Assists

14

15

Goal Involvements per Match

0.70

0.53

Minutes per Goal Involvements

100.73′

155.03′

For example, even though the 23-year-old missed over three months of the season with a hamstring injury that required surgery, he was still able to rack up a sensational haul of 12 goals and 14 assists in 37 appearances, totalling just 2619 minutes.

That means the North Londoners’ “future legend,” dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, maintained an average of a goal involvement every 1.42 games, or 100.73 minutes, which is not only better than the Villa ace managed but also simply world-class.

Okay, how do their pair stack up against one another when we look at their underlying numbers, then? The Claret and Blue star did spend a sizable part of the season out wide.

Well, rather unsurprisingly, it’s the 43-capped superstar who once again comes out on top, doing better in almost all relevant metrics, such as actual and expected non-penalty goals plus assists, progressive passes and carries, shot and goal-creating actions, successful take-ons, tackles, shots and shots on target, key passes and more, all per 90.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.71

0.42

Non-Penalty G+As

0.78

0.52

Progressive Passes

3.65

3.55

Progressive Passes Received

13.3

5.43

Progressive Carries

5.00

3.29

Shots

3.44

1.59

Shots on Target

1.15

0.58

Passing Accuracy

75.5%

73.2%

Expected Assists

0.41

0.15

Key Passes

3.02

1.47

Passes into the Final Third

0.78

2.11

Passes into the Penalty Area

1.98

1.62

Crosses into the Penalty Area

0.63

0.09

Live Passes

33.5

24.7

Shot-Creating Actions

6.09

3.04

Goal-Creating Actions

1.20

0.46

Tackles

1.51

1.24

Blocks

1.15

0.75

Interceptions

0.16

0.17

Clearances

0.42

0.58

Successful Take-Ons

2.14

1.91

Ball Recoveries

3.65

3.44

Ultimately, Arsenal should be looking to sign Rogers this summer, as he’d add far more creativity and attacking flair to the team, but he’d have to hit the ground running to see his valuation even approach Saka’s.

Arsenal set to submit bid for "incredible" star who's like Rodrygo & Yamal

The impressive winger would be a great addition to Arsenal’s squad.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 9, 2025

Manchester United’s Europa League final defeat against Tottenham Hotspur was the final nail in the coffin for what has been a truly dismal 2024/25 campaign.

Ruben Amorim’s side have ended the campaign without any form of European football next season, currently sitting in a measly 16th place in the Premier League table.

Such a loss could see the club lose up to £200m throughout 2025/26, having a real impact on the financial situation and any potential transfers this summer.

An overhaul is desperately needed, given their failures during the current campaign, with new signings and departures required to hand the manager the tools he needs to change the current situation.

With the summer window rapidly approaching, work is already being done behind the scenes at Old Trafford to land players who would certainly add to the squad currently at Amorim’s disposal.

The latest on United’s hunt for new attackers this summer

A striker has been on United’s radar over the last couple of months, with Viktor Gyokeres a name constantly touted, given his previous time under Amorim at Spotting CP.

The Swede would undoubtedly be an excellent option for the Red Devils given his record of 53 goals in his 51 appearances, but could be set for a summer switch to fellow English side Arsenal.

As a result, the club will have to target other options in such an area, leading to rumours over a deal for Ipswich Town talisman Liam Delap, according to Fabrizio Romano.

He’s claimed that the Red Devils hierarchy have already held face-to-face talks with the 22-year-old, after he scored 12 goals in his 36 league appearances for the Tractor Boys this campaign.

It’s also reported that he will be available for around £30m this summer, after his relegation release clause became active, but they could also face keen interest from Chelsea during the off-season.

Why United’s latest target could end Hojlund’s time at Old Trafford

Rasmus Hojlund arrived at United with huge excitement back in the summer of 2023, costing a staggering £72m from Serie A outfit Atalanta, after scoring 10 goals throughout 2022/23.

The Dane has since struggled to replicate his best form in England, scoring 26 goals in his 94 appearances for the Red Devils, with only four of his strikes coming in the league this season.

He’s endured long droughts throughout 2024/25, including a run that saw him go 21 matches without a goal in all competitions – leading to frustrations amongst the fanbase.

His showing in the Europa League final was another one to forget, featuring for 71 minutes and only registering a total of 15 touches, losing possession every 3.75 touches.

If the club are to make the step under Amorim next campaign, it’s pivotal that the hierarchy back him in the summer, handing the funds to make the changes he requires in such a department.

Delap would be an excellent addition for the fee mooted for his signature this summer, massively outperforming Hojlund in numerous key areas when comparing their respective stats.

The Ipswich star, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has massively outscored the Dane, whilst registering a higher shot-on-target rate – showcasing the clinical threat he poses.

Games played

36

31

Goals & assists

14

4

Shot-on-target accuracy

45%

38%

Shots on target

1.1

0.5

Progressive carries

2.1

1.2

Progressive passes

1.1

0.7

Take-on success

47%

28%

Aerials won

42%

23%

He’s also managed to complete more progressive carries and more take-ons, handing Amorim the all-round option in the final third he’s often lacked throughout his tenure at Old Trafford.

Delap has already won 19% more of the aerials he’s contested, handing the side a focal point to play off, subsequently allowing the likes of Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes to improve their own tallies.

£30m could prove to be an excellent price for a player who has bags of time to build on his excellent debut season in England’s top flight, given his tender age.

Given the interest from elsewhere, the hierarchy will have to act quickly to avoid missing out on a player who could easily end Holland’s time at the Theatre of Dreams.

Worse than Hojlund: Man Utd must axe dud who Neville dubbed "embarrassing"

Man Utd have been left to rue their recent transfer mistakes, namely the signing of Rasmus Hojlund

ByRobbie Walls May 22, 2025

With other Premier League sides emerging in the race to sign James Trafford this summer, Newcastle United have reportedly turned their attention towards an impressive Ligue 1 alternative.

Interest growing in Trafford as Newcastle consider other options

Whilst the Magpies have reportedly had personal terms agreed with Trafford since last year, they’re yet to get a deal over the line with Burnley and may lose out amid the fresh interest of Manchester United and Nottingham Forest. Suddenly, Newcastle could be left scrambling to find another top target to replace the ageing and struggling Nick Pope.

The Newcastle No.1 has had plenty of injury struggles in the last year or so and is yet to provide convincing form since returning to full fitness. Now, for the first time in his time at St James’ Park, the shot-stopper’s place is in doubt.

Trafford would arguably be an instant upgrade on Pope too, having enjoyed an excellent season in the Championship with Burnley, who have been one of the best defensive side’s in the division’s history.

Starts

41

21

Clean Sheets

28

5

Saves P90

1.78

3.14

Save Percentage

85.2%

71%

More clean sheets than Pope has managed Premier League starts this season, Trafford is one that Newcastle will not want to miss out on in the coming months.

On that note, however, it seems as though those in Tyneside are at least planning for the worst, having identified a number of alternative options. The likes of Aaron Ramsdale, for example, have been among the headlines as of late and reportedly finds himself on Newcastle’s radar despite suffering relegation at Southampton.

Newcastle in talks to sign Marseille winger Luis Henrique

The Magpies want to beat one of their league rivals to his signature.

BySean Markus Clifford Apr 15, 2025

What’s more, the Magpies have also reportedly turned their attention towards an option outside of English football and one who has attracted plenty of attention from the Premier League.

Newcastle make first checks on "incredible" Fofana

According to The Boot Room, Newcastle have now made their first checks in the race to sign Yahia Fofana from Angers this summer. They’re not alone in their interest, however, with Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and Manchester City all reportedly sending scouts to watch the goalkeeper secure a clean sheet in a recent 2-0 victory over Montpellier.

So, just like in the race to sign Trafford, Newcastle must battle their way past a growing line to get themselves front of the queue for Fofana, who has already earned plenty of praise this season.

Praised for an “incredible breakout season” by U23 scout Antonio Mango in the last campaign, Fofana has only improved since then and now rightly finds himself on the radar of the Premier League. If Newcastle miss out on Trafford this summer, then turning towards the 24-year-old would certainly be a good idea.

Stats highlights from the penultimate day of the Oval Test

Sampath Bandarupalli03-Aug-20251:44

Bangar: India could have bowled straighter to Root

24 – Hundreds for Joe Root in Tests in England, the most by a batter in a single country. He goes past Ricky Ponting, Jacques Kallis and Mahela Jayawardene, who have 23 centuries each at home.Root now has 39 tons in Test cricket, the fourth-most by a batter, behind Sachin Tendulkar (51), Kallis (45) and Ponting (41).13 – Number of hundreds for Root in Tests against India. Only Don Bradman has more Test tons against an opponent – 19 against England, while Sunil Gavaskar also has 13 against West Indies.Related

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50 – Innings Harry Brook has taken to record ten Test hundreds; the least for any batter in the last 70 years. Overall, only eight batters have taken fewer innings to score their tenth hundred in Tests.13 – Fifty-plus scores for Root in the fourth innings of a Test match, the joint-most by any batter, alongside Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Graeme Smith and Chris Gayle.7 – Brook’s 91-ball century in this fifth Test is the seventh-fastest in the fourth innings of a Test match. The two fastest fourth-innings hundreds have been by England players – Gilbert Jessop off 76 balls against Australia in 1902 and Jonny Bairstow off 77 balls against New Zealand in 2022.1:58

Bangar: Brook largely responsible for what unraveled

21 – Number of individual hundreds by England and India batters in the five Tests, the joint-most for a Test series, alongside the five-match series between West Indies and Australia in 1955.9 – Number of batters with 400-plus runs, the most for a Test series. The previous highest was eight during the Frank Worrell Trophy in 1975-76, and the 1993 Ashes.19 – Century partnerships in this series are the joint-most for a Test series. The 1957-58 series between West Indies and Pakistan and The Wisden Trophy in 1967/68 also had 19 century stands.The 195-run partnership between Root and Brook was the 85th century-stand in all Test cricket involving Root. Only Rahul Dravid (88) and Tendulkar (86) have been involved in more century stands, while Ponting was also part of 85.100 – Total number of hundreds for England in Tests at The Oval. It is the second venue where England batters have a century of tons in Tests, after Lord’s (141). Australia have three such venues – Melbourne (116), Adelaide (110) and Sydney (108).

They have traditionally built their game on bowling power, but batting is their stronger suit at this World Cup

Firdose Moonda06-Oct-2023Is it too soon to say that South Africa arrived at the 2023 ODI World Cup so quietly that Temba Bavuma appearing to fall asleep at the captains’ day press conference epitomises their under-the-radar entry? Maybe.But we’ll go with it because it was also the camera angle – Bavuma was actually looking down at his hands – that finally, and ironically, put South Africa in the spotlight at this tournament, albeit not for the reason they may have wanted. Whatevs. At least we’ve all noticed they’re here.That was barely the case in the build-up, which was dominated by endless details about England’s revolutionary approach (what do they call that again? Something with a ‘B’?) and whether India will farewell Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from the format with a win when it matters most. It seems a foregone conclusion that Australia – who South Africa beat 3-2 just a few weeks ago though with an experimental Australia XI – will find their big-tournament mojo and New Zealand, as they have done in the last two tournaments, are among those that could reach the final.Related

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When Miller is comfortable with his hitting, he won't stop

In warm and humid Delhi, it could be South Africa's batters vs Sri Lanka's spinners

Given that Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Netherlands are not on many lists to make the knockouts and Sri Lanka seem to be a diminished force, Pakistan, after a disappointing Asia Cup, and South Africa have been left in World Cup no-man’s land. But they shouldn’t be. As an indication that they are still respected World Cup opposition, seven of the 12 experts on ESPNcricinfo’s panel picked them as among those that could make the semi-finals, and if we look at the numbers, their chances seem better than that.While South Africa have traditionally built their game on bowling, this time it’s the batting line-up which stands out. Since the last World Cup in 2019, South Africa’s top three collectively average 43.41, with only Pakistan and India registering better returns. Interestingly, Quinton de Kock, who has the biggest reputation of the trio, has the smallest average – 44.75, which is nothing to sniff at. Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen average over 55. Bavuma, in particular, is enjoying the best year of his ODI career. In 2023, he has played ten matches and scored 637 runs at 79.62 with three match-defining centuries to his name. The first of those: 109 against England in Bloemfontein in January, put South Africa on course to automatic qualification for this World Cup, in a must-win series.All that sounds good, and sets the tone for a strong start, but it gets better. South Africa’s middle order, which has usually been their undoing in big tournaments, is the best in the world according to the numbers. Since the last World Cup, the No. 5 and 6 batters in the line-up average 51.50, with a higher strike rate than anyone else: 112.24. They have used a few different players in those positions but for the last few months and at this World Cup, Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller have taken ownership of those spots.

“At the moment, maybe it’s the batters who are firing and taking on that responsibility and there is room for us to improve within the bowling front.”Bavuma ahead of South Africa’s opener against Sri Lanka

Ordinarily, Miller would be the player we would focus on, but Klaasen has established himself as the premier finisher in the global game, in both international and league cricket. In 2023, he has scored 527 runs in 11 ODIs, at 58.55 and a strike rate of 151.43 – the highest of any batter who has played more than ten ODIs this year. He has also smashed 47 fours and 25 sixes this year. Of batters at this World Cup, only Rohit and Shubman Gill have hit more.Expectations are that Klaasen will set South Africa’s campaign alight, but, as Bavuma rightly says, he is able to do that because of the platform laid by the top order. “Klaasen is walking on water at the moment with the way he’s been batting,” Bavuma said in Delhi on the eve of South Africa’s opener against Sri Lanka.”He’s obviously a big player for us and [he] comes in and he marshals that middle order. I guess his success, not to take credit away from it, is probably largely due to the platform that it gets from the guys who come in at the top of the order whether it be Quinton, myself or Rassie. It’s important that those guys do their jobs so guys like Klaasen, even a guy like David or Aiden [Markram] can go out and do what we expect and want them to do.”Heinrich Klaasen is in some form this year, hitting 527 runs in 11 ODIs, at 58.55 and a strike rate of 151.43•AFP/Getty ImagesSouth Africa initially only had one genuine allrounder in their squad – Marco Jansen – which raised questions about the balance of their team and whether they would find themselves short on resources. They have since included a second in Andile Phehlukwayo, who came in for an injured Sisanda Magala. Phehlukwayo could add some batting depth if needed. Importantly, he also brings variety to the attack, which finds itself playing a supporting role, but Bavuma cautioned that all the responsibility should not lie on them.”There are days where the batting won’t fire and we’re going to need the bowlers to come through, and vice versa,” Bavuma said. “At the moment, maybe it’s the batters who are firing and taking on that responsibility and there is room for us to improve within the bowling front.”These are not statements you will often hear a South African say because their cricketing DNA is based on steady batting and explosive quicks. But this is not a usual South Africa team. This is one that booked its spot at the tournament at the very last direct opportunity – literally. They only confirmed qualification in May, when Ireland could not beat Bangladesh to clinch the eighth spot, and were in the middle of a five-month international break at the time. Since then, they have only played one series in the build-up, not several, as they have previously done, and their arrival in India has been as low-key as it comes, apart from that Bavuma incident, which has become a meme.At least the man himself took it in good spirit, which is also different to how previous South African captains have reacted to being provoked at the start of a big tournament. Maybe things have changed. Now, South Africans will hope that the more they do, the less the outcome of big tournaments will be the same.

Ishant, Bumrah and Shami managed only one wicket between as they strove for the right lengths in seaming conditions

Nagraj Gollapudi20-Jun-20211:58

Manjrekar: Rahane’s dismissals associated with his state of mind

One wicket. That is what Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami managed across nearly two sessions on Sunday afternoon on a hard, fast pitch in seaming conditions. It is easy to judge that as a failure when measured against New Zealand’s inspired bowling performance in the morning, when India’s middle order lost the plot, as well as seven wickets for just 71 runs.But that would be overly critical of the Indian fast men. The combination of grey, cloudy, overcast weather along with the Dukes balls is a delight to fast bowlers who can impart swing and seam. If done wisely, as Kyle Jamieson displayed in the morning, it can be destructive. Yet, as enticing as the English conditions can be, the bowler still has to pitch the ball on the right length and make the batter play.Related

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• As it happened – India vs NZ, WTC final, 3rd day

And finding that length is anything but easy. Even the New Zealand fast pack found it hard on Saturday, despite having the best bowling conditions so far in the match on a fresh pitch with a lot of moisture. While credit has to go to the India top order, which showed application and determination, the New Zealand fast bowlers, especially Tim Southee and Trent Boult, were inconsistent. But on the second morning, Jamieson found the appropriate length, blended with movement and accuracy, to snatch control of the match from India.Having watched the New Zealand bowlers correct their mistakes and their lengths, India would have been confident that their experienced seamers would get settled in quickly on their first day at the job. Yet New Zealand’s batters had a few things in their favour. Firstly, the Ageas Bowl was glowing in sunshine, a spell that had started in the hour before lunch when the India lower order was at the crease. Secondly, both Tom Latham and especially Devon Conway had struck form during the two-Test England series, which took place in the build-up to the World Test Championship final. So both the openers were acclimatised to the conditions.Mohammed Shami catches Tom Latham’s splice, but it flies over Ajinkya Rahane•AFP/Getty ImagesIn contrast, Ishant, Bumrah and Shami were bowling in England for the first time in Test cricket since the 2018 tour. All three were successful on that tour, but now they had to re-start. Ishant and Bumrah, sharing the new ball, were pitching on lengths that the New Zealand openers found easy to leave and negotiate.As per the ESPNcricinfo’s ball-by-ball data, Latham and Conway’s in-control percentages were 90.32% and 80% respectively in the first spells by Ishant and Bumrah. Although they had made just 17 runs after nine overs, when Bumrah was replaced by Shami, New Zealand’s openers looked composed and set for a long stay. Both Conway and Latham were happy to leave as many balls when they could.The India fans were growing restless. Their spirits were lifted somewhat by an energetic first spell by Shami, who delivered with that upright seam at high speeds and caused some distress to the batters. Still both Conway and Latham’s combined in-control percentage in Shami’s first spell, lasting six overs, was nearly 70%. But the absence of wickets in a match influenced heavily by fraught weather, left some tough questions for the Indian camp if they wanted to get a positive result.Ishant Sharma reacts on the field•Getty ImagesOne reason they did not show any desperation was was because they had kept a tight leash on the run rate, which has remained around two and over throughout this match. Such a low scoring rate would have grated with the pundits and fans usually. But the WTC final has been an engrossing duel where the balance has shifted between both teams.After Latham fell to R Ashwin, Ishant and Bumrah returned with renewed vigour and more blunt plans that put pressure on Conway and Kane Williamson, who were made to play the ball instead of leaving. Bumrah went over the wicket to attack Conway with an angle that the batter found difficult to deal with and couple of times found himself in an awkward position playing balls coming on to his legs. Against Williamson, Bumrah was in the middle of setting up a plan as he asked difficult questions by shaping the ball away with the intention of bringing it back in.

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Ishant, too, had found a length where he could both shape the ball away or in to the batter, who could no more refuse to play the ball. With pressure being built from both ends, Conway failed the test, playing a fateful stroke off Ishant minutes before day ended.The India bowlers, as well as their think tank, would agree Sunday was all hard grind. And it will not be a one-off. There will be similar days during the rest of this long English summer, featuring a five-Test series against the home nation, and when the India fast-bowling pack will doubtless be challenged in tougher conditions.

نافش ريو فرديناند، أسطورة نادي مانشستر يونايتد، مستقبل محمد صلاح مع ليفربول، موضحًا أن الدولي المصري سيرفض الانتقال إلى أحد الأندية الكبرى إذا تم تقديم عرض له.

محمد صلاح يعيش أوقاتًا صعبة خلال الأيام الماضية ، وذلك في ظل بقائه بشكل مستمر على دكة بدلاء ليفربول في المباريات الثلاث الأخيرة التي لعبها الريدز في الدوري الإنجليزي الممتاز.

ويعتقد فرديناند، أن نادي مانشستر يونايتد ربما سوف يقدم عرضًا للتعاقد مع محمد صلاح خلال فترة الميركاتو الشتوي المقبل في يناير، موضحًا أن ابن الـ33 عامًا سوف يرفض اللعب مع الشياطين الحمر.

وورد أن ليفربول مستعد لسماع العروض من أجل بيع محمد صلاح، حيث تبرز أندية الدوري السعودي والدوري الأمريكي على رأس المرشحين لضم اللاعب.

اقرأ أيضًا .. محمد صلاح يشعل حربًا بين كاراجر وريتشاردز.. اتهامات بالتفاهة وتييري هنري يتدخل

وقال فرديناند في تصريحات نقلتها صحيفة مترو: “مستحيل أن ينتقل محمد صلاح إلى مانشستر يونايتد، لا أعتقد أنه يمتلك تلك الصفة التي كان يتمتع بها واين روني أو كارلوس تيفيز، وهي بذل جهد إضافي”.

وأضاف فرديناند في حديثه عن محمد صلاح: ”لكن نعم، سأقدم عرضًا، عرضًا علنيًا أيضًا، سيكون أمرًا لا يصدق أليس كذلك؟. سيكون مزحة حقًا”.

واختتم المدافع السابق: ”ليس لدي أدنى شك في أن لاعبي ليفربول لا يريدون رحيل محمد صلاح لأنه يساعدهم على الفوز بالألقاب، لكنني أعتقد أنه سوف يرحل ، لقد انتهى الأمر”.

ولم يدفع مدرب ليفربول، آرني سلوت، بمحمد صلاح بشكل أساسي في مواجهات وست هام يونايتد ، وسندرلاند، وأخيرًا ليدز يونايتد في الدوري الإنجليزي الممتاز.

وأظهر محمد صلاح ردة فعل غاضبة في المقابل على قرارات سلوت، حيث أكد أن العلاقة بينه وبين المدرب الهولندي قد تدمرت، موضحًا أن إدارة ليفربول لم تقف بجانبه ولم تنفذ الوعود الي قدمتها له.

ونتيجة لتصريحات محمد صلاح تم استبعاده من مباراة ليفربول وإنتر ميلان يوم أمس الثلاثاء في بطولة دوري أبطال أوروبا، وذلك كإجراء تأديبي للملك المصري.

واستعاد ليفربول الثقة وحقق الانتصار على إنتر ميلان 1-0، حيث أحرز هدف الريدز الوحيد دومينيك سوبوسلاي.