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Bangladesh survived 12 overs before stumps but will have to return to face a relatively new ball on Friday

Karthik Krishnaswamy22-Aug-2024

Mohammed Rizwan and Saud Shakeel put on a partnership of more than 200•AFP/Getty Images

A 240-run fifth-wicket stand between Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan formed the centerpiece of a dominant second day for Pakistan as they declared at 448 for 6, leaving Bangladesh to see off a tricky hour or so before stumps. Bangladesh did so, with openers Shadman Islam and Zakir Hasan surviving 12 overs, but they will have to come back and face Pakistan’s four-pronged seam attack on day three with a ball that is still relatively new.Pakistan looked to up their scoring rate when they resumed after tea, with Rizwan announcing their intent by stepping out and clouting Shoriful Islam for a big six over long-on. The shot triggered a bout of cramps, and Rizwan continued to hobble as he collected 37 off 42 balls after tea to finish unbeaten on 171 when Pakistan declared.Pakistan’s aggressive intent after tea cost them one wicket, when Shakib Al Hasan’s guile undid Agha Salman’s attempt to hit him against the turn, bringing about a sliced catch at backward point. But it also brought quick runs, as Shaheen Shah Afridi slogged two sixes on his way to an unbeaten 29 off 24.Rizwan came out and kept wickets when Bangladesh’s innings began, but cramps forced him to leave the field after 7.3 overs, with Sarfaraz Ahmed taking over behind the stumps. In all, Rizwan was on the field for all but 4.3 overs of the day’s play.Having added 44 on day one, Shakeel and Rizwan batted on for the best part of two sessions before Bangladesh finally broke their stand, with just over 15 minutes to go for tea.The visitors’ long-awaited moment of inspiration came from Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who dangled up a teasing offbreak that dragged Shakeel onto the front foot to defend, then dipped and turned sharply past his outside edge, leaving him reaching for the ball and dragging his back foot out of the crease. Litton Das completed the dismissal with lightning glovework after collecting the ball somewhere around the seventh-stump line.This was a dismissal with a margin of millimeters; the tip of Shakeel’s toe was on the crease when the bails began to flash.There had been only millimeters in it an over earlier, too, when Shakeel – who had routinely left his crease against the fast bowlers to negotiate movement – shouldered arms to Hasan Mahmud and Litton, alert to the possibility, threw down the stumps. Then, Shakeel had plonked his bat into the crease and landed a fraction of a second – a fraction too small for the frame rate of the TV cameras to capture definite proof – before the bails lit up.Litton had been involved in most of the small sprinkling of nervous moments that Shakeel and Rizwan endured during their 63.5 overs together. He had moved alertly to his left to create a diving opportunity when Rizwan lobbed up a bat-pad half-chance off Mehidy, but hadn’t been able to finish the job. He had missed an even tougher chance, down the leg side, off Rizwan’s glove when he had tried to sweep Shakib.That these moments were so infrequent, and so far from being genuine chances, reflected how well Shakeel and Rizwan batted as they brought up their respective third Test hundreds. It also reflected how much the conditions had eased up since the start of the Test match, when Bangladesh had made full use of the new ball and early moisture to reduce Pakistan to 16 for 3.Proof of the transformed conditions – though the tiredness in the Bangladesh seamers’ limbs also contributed, no doubt – came when Bangladesh took the second new ball, ten overs after lunch. Both batters had brought up their centuries by then – Rizwan going from 91 to 97 by stepping out and launching Shakib for a big six over wide long-on, then whipping him over midwicket for four to reach three figures – and they greeted the return of the fast bowlers with a series of gorgeous strokes.Rizwan eased Hasan Mahmud through cover point in the 82nd over, and in the next over Shakeel stood tall to drive Shoriful on the up through cover.The batters embraced when Shakeel played that shot, perhaps recognising the fact that it was his first boundary of the day, and his unhurried, unbothered manner while going through 123 balls without one.Shakeel made up for that in the overs that followed, pulling Shoriful and Nahid Rana disdainfully when they tried to bounce him, and whipping Rana off his hips when he veered too straight.Rana had tried the short-ball ploy in the first session too, and occasionally made both batters look awkward. But it came at a cost: his five overs in the morning went for 32 runs.Rizwan scored most of those runs, including back-to-back falling ramps over the slips off bouncers angling into his body to go from 46 to 54. In Rana’s next over, he showed more of his range against the short ball, hooking him for a six over backward square leg.Rizwan was by far the quicker scorer of the fifth-wicket pair during the first session, adding 65 off 100 balls. Shakeel had less of the strike, and made quieter use of it, scoring 32 off 77 without adding to his five boundaries from day one. By lunch, Rizwan had overtaken Shakeel having started the day 33 runs behind.Their methods may have been different, but their effect on Bangladesh was similarly dispiriting. Shakeel’s defence, in particular, looked unbreachable at times; he was beautifully balanced at all times, and invariably met the ball right under his eyes with the bat’s full face.As the day went on, Bangladesh’s spinners began to take on a greater share of the workload, and both Shakib and Mehidy put a difficult first day – they had gone for a combined 36 from their six overs – behind them and performed an admirable holding job. Much of their day-one despair had been related to Pakistan’s clinical use of the sweep. They responded by attacking the stumps far more, and bowling a touch quicker than they had earlier, with protection in the deep square on the leg side. Both used drift cleverly, and Mehidy on occasion extracted sharp turn too.

Sussex slip to tight defeat as Matt Salisbury closes things out at the death

ECB Reporters Network04-Aug-2024

Peter Handscomb hit 119 off 80 balls•Getty Images

Holders Leicestershire Foxes made it three wins out of four in this year’s Metro Bank One-Day Cup when they beat Sussex Sharks by ten runs at Hove. But in a monumental match, which yielded 716 runs, Sussex – who have now lost all five of their games – took the game right to the wire.A magnificent 119 from 80 deliveries by Australia’s Peter Handscomb had led Leicestershire to a total of 363 for 7. And that looked much too much for a Sussex side who had averaged just 200 in their previous four matches.But Sussex, who had made six changes, made a tremendous match of it after appearing out of it at 196 for four in the 35th over. A stand of 131 in 12 overs between Tom Haines (129) and John Simpson (85) put their side back in the reckoning. Simpson has now scored 477 runs against Leicestershire this season for once out.Haines and Tom Clark had put on 120 for the first wicket before Clark was bowled by Ben Mike for a 74-ball 72 in the 20th over. He had been dropped by Mike before he had scored.The Sussex innings then stuttered as Charlie Tear, Tom Alsop and Fynn Hudson-Prentice all fell cheaply as the asking rate climbed to more than ten an over But, Haines, who straight-drove Liam Trevaskis for successive sixes on his way to his second List A century, and Simpson turned the game round, with Simpson scoring at a rate of166.66, with eight fours and three sixes. Even when Haines was fifth out at 318 Sussex were still in in it, needing 41 off three. But when Simpson was out in the penultimate over, with twenty still needed, it was finally all over.Leicestershire were surprisingly invited to bat first in run-friendly conditions (equally surprisingly, the Foxes would also have opted to bowl) and their large total was built around an opening stand of 129 between Ian Holland (65), and Sol Budinger (84) and a fourth wicket partnership of 146 between their two best batsmen, Handscomb and Ajinkya Rahane (68).All-rounder Holland, making his return to the side to open both batting and bowling, and Budinger, who had already shown good form in the competition this season, built the platform for their side’s innings by batting through the opening 20 overs, scoring 52 from the first 10-over powerplay and raising the hundred in the 17th over.This was the third time in four innings that Budinger had reached fifty and both he and his opening partner reached the landmark by striking the expensive Archie Lenham for six. But it was Lenham who broke through in the 21st over when Holland edged to short third man. He had hit eight fours and two sixes in 67 balls.Captain Lewis Hill fell cheaply, and then Budinger’s 77-ball stay ended after striking at 109, with six fours and five sixes. But at 183 for 3 after 30 overs, and Handscomb and Rahane at the crease, the Foxes were sitting pretty. Both batsmen showed their experience as they exploited the short boundary on the east side of the ground but the Sussex bowlers, with the exceptions of the impressive Hudson-Prentice and Jack Carson, were guilty of bowling too short in the conditions. Clark’s solitary over went for 22 as Handscomb pulled his first five balls for 4, 4, 4, 4 and six.The 300 came up in the 44th over as Rahane drove Lenham for six but the batsman was fourth out at 318 when he edged a slower delivery from Hudson-Prentice to the keeper. But Handscomb carried on to strike 15 fours and two sixes.

Celtic look set to lose one of their top talents within the next week or so as Nicolas Kuhn is closing in on a permanent exit from the Scottish Premiership champions.

Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph claims that the club have agreed a fee of around £16.5m with Italian side Como for the left-footed sensation.

The journalist adds that the former RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich youth prospect has already agreed to sign a long-term contract with the Serie A outfit this summer.

Kuhn has reportedly turned down a potential return to Leipzig, who were interested in signing him, and has a medical scheduled with Como for next week, which suggests that an official confirmation is not imminently expected.

It does appear, though, that it is only a matter of time before Celtic confirm that the German winger will not be playing for the club next season, which will come as a blow to Brendan Rodgers.

Why selling Nicolas Kuhn is a blow for Celtic

Whilst the Hoops are set to rake in a significant sum of money for the 25-year-old talent, it is always a blow when a high-quality player moves on, and that is what he is.

The 2024/25 campaign was his first full season in Glasgow, having joined from Rapid Vienna in the January transfer window last year, and he really hit his stride on the right flank.

Kuhn ended the season with a return of 21 goals and 15 assists in 51 appearances in all competitions for the Scottish giants, which shows that he provided quality in the final third on a regular basis for Rodgers.

The left-footed magician’s form in the Premiership, as Celtic won the league title, was particularly impressive, as the forward showcased his ability to both score and create goals.

24/25 Premiership

Nicolas Kuhn per 90

Percentile rank vs wingers

xG

0.46

Top 10%

Goals

0.62

Top 8%

Shots on target

1.30

Top 14%

xA

0.34

Top 10%

Assists

0.43

Top 10%

Chances created

2.49

Top 12%

Stats via FotMob

As you can see in the table above, Kuhn ranked very highly among his positional peers in a host of key attacking metrics, which shows that he scored and created goals at an exceptional rate.

These statistics illustrate why it will be a big blow for Rodgers when this sale goes through, because he is losing a player who has proven that he can make a huge impact at the top end of the pitch for Celtic.

The Hoops have, of course, already signed Benjamin Nygren on a permanent deal to bolster their options on the flanks, but he does not have the creative quality to fully replace what Kuhn offered.

In the 2024/25 campaign, the Sweden international only managed a return of two assists in 30 Superliga appearances, to go with his impressive haul of 15 goals.

Therefore, Celtic may need to dip into the market to sign another wide option who can provide creativity as well as a goal threat, now that Kuhn appears to be on his way out of the club.

Earlier this summer, it was reported that the Scottish giants are interested in Stoke City forward Million Manhoef, who is valued at £10m by the Championship side, and they should now reignite that interest.

Why Celtic should sign Million Manhoef

The Premiership champions could brilliantly replace Kuhn ahead of the 2025/26 campaign by pushing ahead with a swoop for the Netherlands U21 international, as he would arrive with a similar profile.

Like the German star, the Stoke attacker is a diminutive left-footed right winger who has the quality to both score and create goals in equal measure, as evidenced by his form for the English side last season.

He has not delivered the kind of numbers that Kuhn managed for Celtic yet, as he has not had the chance to play in a team that is as dominant domestically as the Hoops are, which means that there would be a degree of risk.

However, Rodgers can afford to take more of a risk with a player like Manhoef because the club have already brought in Nygren to potentially play on the right wing and, as aforementioned, his haul of 15 goals last season suggests that he could be a good option.

The Stoke star ended the 2024/25 campaign with a return of five goals and five assists in 28 Championship starts, but it is his underlying numbers behind those headline statistics that are even more promising for Celtic.

24/25 Championship

Million Manhoef

Percentile rank vs wingers

xG

7.74

Top 9%

Goals

5

Top 21%

Shots on target

26

Top 9%

xA

4.83

Top 14%

Chances created

52

Top 9%

Assists

5

Top 20%

Stats via FotMob

As you can see in the table above, Manhoef excelled at getting into goalscoring positions and at creating chances for his teammates, ranking highly among his positional peers, but was not clinical enough with his finishing.

Pundit David Prutton claimed it would be a “tremendous” move for Manhoef to sign for Celtic, and these statistics suggest that the potential is there for it to be a tremendous move for all parties.

The Dutch wizard, who only recorded five assists from 12 ‘big chances’ created in the Championship, could thrive in a team that dominates games week-in-week-out, as Celtic do.

He has been playing for a midtable team, in Stoke, who do not challenge at the top end of the division in the second tier in England, which suggests that he has not had the opportunity to play in a side that is consistently on the front foot.

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Therefore, Celtic could brilliantly replace Kuhn by gambling on a swoop for Manhoef, who appears to have the potential to explode as a scorer and a creator of goals in a better team than the one he is currently playing in.

This summer presents a new era at Tottenham Hotspur, after Thomas Frank was appointed as their new boss after agreeing a £10m compensation package with Brentford.

The Dane takes the reins from Ange Postecoglou after the Aussie was handed his marching orders by owner Daniel Levy despite ending their 17-year wait for a trophy in the Europa League final.

It presents a fresh opportunity for the club to take the next step in their ambitions of mounting a charge for the Premier League title, with Frank the next man to try his luck in North London.

However, if he is to be a success in the role, he will need new additions this summer to help him in his quest, with quality and depth needed in key areas of the pitch.

Numerous players have already emerged on their radar in recent weeks, but additions can only be made if Levy hands Frank the funds needed to change their fortunes on the pitch.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Bryan Mbeumo is a player who’s been firmly on their radar since the Dane’s appointment, potentially having a reunion with his former boss at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium next season.

However, if they’re going to complete a deal for the 25-year-old attacker, they will have to fork out a pretty penny for his signature, with the Bees demanding £70m to part ways with him this window.

The hierarchy already appear to be making moves elsewhere, with work being done to secure a deal for Palmeiras midfielder Richard Rios, according to GIVEMESPORT’s latest update.

The report states that Spurs have sent scouts to watch the Colombian international at the Club World Cup, starring in his first game against Porto – completing more dribbles than any player on the pitch.

It also claims that the 25-year-old has a £85m release clause within his current contract, with the hierarchy confident he can transfer his skillset across to England and emulate one player’s success.

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Posts ByCharlie Smith Jun 13, 2025 Why Rios could become Frank’s own version of Dembele

Not many supporters would’ve envisaged the impact Belgian midfielder Mousa Dembélé would have at Tottenham after his £15m switch from Fulham back in 2012.

However, such a deal would be one of the best deals in the club’s history, going on to make 250 appearances for the Lilywhites, scoring on ten occasions – but it was his talent in other areas that caught the eye.

He became a monster in and out of possession, often effortlessly gliding past the opposition, and being a commanding presence that was virtually impossible to dispossess.

Dembélé also thrived out of possession, handing the club a perfect box-to-box option, with numerous former players labelling him as the best player they’ve ever featured alongside.

However, after his subsequent departure to join Guangzhou City back in January 2019, the side has often lacked that presence, something which Rios could offer Frank in North London next season.

When comparing his stats from this season to those of Dembélé at Spurs, he’s managed to match or better him in numerous key areas – highlighting why he could be the man to fill the void.

Rios, who’s been labelled “one of the best midfielders” by one Brazilian analyst, has registered more goals and assists, along with more passes into the opposition box per 90, showcasing the threat he poses when driving with the ball.

How Rios in 24/25 compares to Dembélé in 17/18

Statistics (per 90)

Rios

Dembélé

Games played

24

28

Goals & assists

7

0

Passes into opposition box

1.9

0.2

Tackles won

1.9

1.2

% of tackles won

46%

24%

Take-ons completed

3.8

3.8

Fouls won

1.8

1.3

Aerials won

56%

39%

Stats via FBref

Described as a “ball-carrying machine” by data analyst Ben Mattinson, he also matched Dembélé for take-ons completed, whilst drawing more fouls, offering a constant nuisance to opposition players, something which Frank’s side need in the middle of the mark.

The Colombian’s talents don’t end there, winning more aerials and tackles per 90, handing the side a defensive presence that has often been missing in North London, with Rios the perfect option for the Lilywhites.

Whilst he has an £85m release clause in his current deal, it’s likely the 25-year-old will be available for a significantly lower fee, with Spurs needing to pursue a move for his signature.

If he can get anywhere near the levels produced by the Belgian at the club, he would be another sensational addition and one that could fire the club up the table in 2025/26.

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Posts 1 ByEthan Lamb Jun 18, 2025

Rohit smashed 92 off just 41 balls, as India confirmed their spot in the semi-final of the T20 World Cup

ESPNcricinfo staff24-Jun-20241:14

Manjrekar: ‘Rohit’s selflessness the most appealing thing about him’

Rohit Sharma said he needed “to be smart” and “open up all sides of the field” to counter the strong breeze at the Daren Sammy Stadium in a Super Eight game of the T20 World Cup 2024 against an Australia bowling attack that tried to use that same breeze to make life difficult for him. He was smart enough on the day, hitting a 41-ball 92 with seven fours and eight sixes to lead India to a 24-run win and a spot in the semi-finals as the Group 1 toppers.”I thought right from over number one, there was a strong breeze blowing across. But they changed their plan, trying to bowl against the breeze,” Rohit said on the host broadcast after earning the Player-of-the-Match award. “So I had to open up the other side of the field as well. Need to be smart. Like I said, we need to be smart when we play. And that is something that I was backing myself to do.”Rohit also highlighted the need to “not just be one-dimensional” when being challenged by the conditions.Related

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“You’ve got to understand [that the] bowlers are smart as well. They’re going to not bowl into the breeze a lot,” he said. “So you’ve got to open up all sides of the field, [and] not just be one-dimensional. And that is something that was going through my mind all through. I was thinking to hit the ball everywhere possible. And when you keep an open mind and not think about just playing one shot, you can open [up] and access all sides of the field. And that is something that I was trying to do.”India had lost Virat Kohli for a five-ball duck, and got only six runs in the first two overs, after which Rohit went on the offensive. He hammered Mitchell Starc for four sixes and a four in what turned out to be a 29-run over, with two sixes over the covers, and one each over midwicket and short third, the last top-edged.”Look, it’s been a good wicket. And that is something you want to do as a batter – when you see the wickets are good, you want to try and back yourself to play those kind of shots,” he said. “And I’ve been trying to do that for a few years now. So, yeah, I’m glad that it came off pretty well today.”

The last time India had met Australia in a global tournament, it was the final of the ODI World Cup last November. Australia had beaten India by six wickets to lift the trophy on that occasion, but defeat to India in this game has left them hoping for a Bangladesh win, that too by a specific margin, in the last Super Eight game, against Afghanistan.”It is quite satisfying, especially when you play like that,” Rohit said about beating Australia. “We know the opposition and the threat that they bring with them as well. But I thought overall, as a team, we played well. We kept doing the things that we are supposed to do, and what we know the best. And yeah, we can take a lot of confidence from a game like that.”India face England in the semi-final in Guyana on June 27, having lost to them by ten wickets in Adelaide in the semi-final of the previous T20 World Cup in 2022.

The last few seasons have seen Chelsea completely overhaul their squad.

While there have been a few mistakes along the way, it would be fair to say the club look like they now have a team full of incredibly talented players.

Arguably, the most exhilarating of the lot has been Cole Palmer, who, since his arrival from Manchester City in the summer of 2023, has been nothing short of world-class for the Blues.

So, fans should be tremendously excited about recent reports linking the West Londoners to another talent who has won comparisons to the game-changing Englishman.

Chelsea target Premier League signings

Chelsea have already made a few signings from outside England this summer, but, if reports are to be believed, the club are also looking at several stars from the Premier League, such as Joao Pedro and Murillo.

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The former could reportedly cost up to £60m, and while that is a significant amount of money, he was fairly effective in limited minutes this season, scoring ten goals and providing seven assists in 30 appearances, totalling 2,136 minutes.

Murillo, on the other hand, could cost the Blues up to £80m, but given his incredible performances at the back for Nottingham Forest this year, that once again may well be a fee worth paying.

However, as transformational as these two players could be for Maresca’s side, neither one can really be compared to Palmer, unlike Harvey Elliott.

Yes, according to a recent report from Caught Offside, Chelsea are one of a number of teams interested in the Liverpool gem this summer.

Alongside the Blues, the report claims that Aston Villa, Brighton & Hove Albion, Newcastle United, and Borussia Dortmund are all keen on the 22-year-old talent.

However, alongside the intense competition for his services, the West Londoners will have to pay a substantial sum of money to secure their man, with the report claiming that the Reds want at least £50m.

It could be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but given Elliott’s ability and potential, it’s one Chelsea should fight for, especially as he’s won comparisons to Palmer.

How Elliott compares to Palmer

In this instance, the primary comparison to Palmer originates from FBref, which looked at players in similar positions across Europe’s top five leagues, the Champions League and Europa League, and came to the conclusion that the Chelsea gem has been the eighth most similar attacking midfielder or winger to Elliott over the last 365 days.

Elliott & Palmer

Statistics per 90

Elliott

Palmer

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.69

0.68

Goals per Shot

0.06

0.09

Goals per Shot on Target

0.25

0.25

Key Passes

2.44

2.45

Interceptions

0.24

0.31

Successful Take-On %

44.4%

45.1%

Carries into the Penalty Area

1.22

1.15

All Stats via FBref for the 24/25 PL Season

The best way to understand how this conclusion was reached is by examining some of the underlying metrics in which the pair ranked incredibly closely, such as non-penalty expected goals plus assists, goals per shot and shot on target, interceptions, carries into the penalty area and more, all per 90.

However, the similarities extend beyond the statistics, as the young Liverpool gem, like the Blues star, has demonstrated an ability to play in multiple positions, with attacking midfield and right-wing his most played.

Moreover, should this transfer go through, then it would be another example of the West Londoners bringing in a younger talent from one of their rivals who’s just not getting the game time he deserves at the moment.

On top of that, even though he’s had to play a bit-part role at Anfield this season, the 22-year-old “machine,” as dubbed by journalist Sam McGuire, has still got some seriously impressive underlying numbers, which suggests that were he given more regular game time, he could seriously explode.

For example, FBref places him in the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s top five leagues for non-penalty goals, the top 2% for progressive passes and passes attempted, the top 8% for non-penalty expected goals, and more, all per 90.

Ultimately, there would undoubtedly be some risk in signing Elliott this summer, but there was also plenty of risk in signing an unproven Palmer in 2023, and thanks to their similarities, this feels like a risk Chelsea should take.

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Posts 1 ByEmilio Galantini Jun 27, 2025

Several ICC officials have visited Pakistan to inspect arrangements and, it is understood, the PCB has received positive feedback

Danyal Rasool10-Jun-2024

Pakistan are the defending champions in the Champions Trophy, having won the previous edition back in 2017•PA Photos

The PCB has proposed a February 19 start to the Champions Trophy next year in Pakistan. ESPNcricinfo understands the PCB has pencilled the tournament to be played from February 19 to March 9, across Karachi, Rawalpindi and Lahore. Karachi will host three games, including the tournament opener as well as a semi-final, while Lahore plays host to seven, including the final. The other semi-final will be one of five contests to take place at Pindi Cricket Ground.Several ICC officials have visited Pakistan to inspect arrangements to host the first ICC tournament in Pakistan since the 1996 World Cup. They include security and event officials as well as chief pitch inspector Andy Atkinson, and it is understood the PCB has received positive feedback from the ICC concerning logistics and arrangement, allowing it to press ahead with its plans.The current dates, should they be finalised, mean the last third of the tournament will he held during Ramadan, just as the knockout stage of the PSL was last year. Some knockout games in Karachi saw an extremely low turnout during Ramadan. The PCB did try and accommodate for that by moving start times to a later 9pm, though with the Champions Trophy being an ODI tournament, that will not be possible. That means large parts of games will take place during the sunrise to sunset window where players observing Ramadan cannot eat or drink.As ESPNcricinfo reported earlier, every game involving India at the tournament is slated to take place in Lahore. This means one semi-final will be moved from Karachi or Rawalpindi to Lahore should India qualify for the last four. Basing India in one city is thought to have been proposed because it avoids what could be considerable logistical and security complications around their travel. Additionally, by being based in Lahore, which is close to the Wagah border crossing between the two countries, it allows Indian fans a relatively easier option to visit.As ever the main question in the run-up to the event will surround India’s participation. The Indian team has not played in Pakistan since the Asia Cup in 2008, and there has been no bilateral series between the two since a white-ball visit by Pakistan in 2012-13. When the PCB hosted the Asia Cup last year, the workaround involved deploying a hybrid model that saw the bulk of the games – including all of India’s – take place in Sri Lanka with the final, which India won, held in Colombo. The BCCI has maintained the decision to travel to Pakistan rests in the hands of the Indian government.Every side other than India involved in the upcoming Champions Trophy has travelled to Pakistan since cricket returned to the country in 2015. Pakistan will also host an ODI tri-series featuring South Africa and New Zealand before the tournament.Pakistan are the defending champions, having won the last Champions Trophy in 2017.

After losing both Matheus Cunha and Rayan Ait-Nouri to both Manchester clubs, Wolverhampton Wanderers have now reportedly turned their attention towards potential incomings and one Premier League rival.

Wolves lose Ait-Nouri and Cunha

Whilst losing Cunha always seemed inevitable due to his £63m release clause, Wolves may not have had the same feeling of inevitability about Ait-Nouri’s future. One swift move from Manchester City soon changed things, however, and now the Midlands club are set to enter next season without arguably their most important players.

Despite being picked apart, however, those in the Midlands still have reason to be positive. Having sold Cunha for his £63m release clause and Ait-Nouri for a reported £36m, Wolves now have money to spend on incomings of their own ahead of Vitor Pereira’s first full season in charge at the club.

As a result, the rumours have already been coming thick and fast. Top of Wolves’ wishlist should be finding replacements for both Ait-Nouri and Cunha before perhaps addressing other areas in need of upgrading.

To that end, names such as Barcelona’s Gerard Martin and Nice forward Evann Guessand have threatened to steal the headlines in recent weeks in two moves that would solve Wolves’ problem.

The latter enjoyed a particularly impressive season in France, scoring 13 goals and creating another 10 in all competitions for Nice. Doing enough to earn the interest of Wolves, the Ivory Coast forward could yet be on his way to the Premier League.

Meanwhile, those at Molineux have also reportedly turned their attention towards signing a reinforcement slightly closer to home and one who already knows all about the Premier League.

Wolves plotting Yegor Yarmolyuk move

As reported by Caught Offside, Wolverhampton Wanderers are now plotting a move to sign Yegor Yarmolyuk from Brentford this summer. Like the Midlands club, the Bees could lose two crucial figures this summer in manager Thomas Frank, who looks destined for Tottenham Hotspur, and Manchester United-linked Bryan Mbeumo. They are, therefore, keen to keep hold of Yarmolyuk.

Every player has their price, however, and the West London club reportedly value their young midfielder at just €30m (£25m) in what should be an affordable price for a Wolves side fresh from big-money sales.

The Midlands club aren’t alone in pursuit of the 21-year-old, though, with Frank reportedly eyeing the chance to bring him to Tottenham and Leeds United also interested.

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It should, of course, come as little surprise that Spurs have already set their sights on the Brentford midfielder and Fank’s influence could yet deal Wolves a frustrating blow.

The Spurs-bound manager was full of praise for Yarmolyuk last season, telling reporters: “He possesses a fantastic mindset and trains well every day. If you train well consistently and are one of the best in practice, you will eventually make your way to the starting lineup, and I hope he establishes himself there.”

Scott Parker certainly lived up to his label as a serial promotion winner out of the Championship this season at the Burnley helm.

Securing second spot for the Clarets on a mighty 100 points means Parker has now won promotion three times up to the Premier League as a boss, with the uphill battle of attempting to keep the Lancashire underdogs afloat in the taxing division now the tough goal.

It’s been a less-than-ideal summer so far for the newly promoted side unfortunately, as CJ Egan-Riley nears ever closer to a sad Clarets exit, whilst Josh Brownhill’s future at the club is reportedly up in the air having attracted interest from West Ham.

But, it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom as the Clarets anxiously count down the days until the Premier League returns to Turf Moor.

How might the Clarets look in the Premier League? We’ve laid out their dream XI in the top-flight right here…

1 GK – James Trafford

Much like Egan-Riley, Burnley’s number one goalkeeper James Trafford has reportedly been the subject of interest from Newcastle.

But, Parker and Co will just aim to keep swatting away interested parties, knowing full well that Trafford is Premier League capable, having kept a ridiculous 29 clean sheets last season.

2 RB – Connor Roberts

Connor Roberts is also likely to retain his place as Burnley’s starting right-back in top-flight action.

He was another steady presence in the Clarets’ formidable defence last campaign, whilst also being able to boast a season of Premier League experience already with the Lancashire outfit.

3 CB – Victor Nelsson

The first brand-new purchase could see Burnley take a punt on 26-year-old centre-back Victor Nelsson in a bid to immediately fill the Egan-Riley void.

Previously linked with a €10m (£8m) move for Nelsson in January, the 6 foot 1 Dane has shown across his career to date his ability to shine in some top divisions.

Before falling out of favour at Galatasaray and heading to AS Roma on loan, Nelsson would pick up a hefty 11 clean sheets in Super Lig action across the 2023/24 season, finishing too with an imposing average of 5.3 duels won per contest.

With his spell at Roma not going to plan either, the Scandinavian could well fancy leaving Turkey behind for good which is where Burnley might capitalise.

4 CB – Maxime Esteve

Whilst the news of Egan-Riley’s expected exit will sting, Burnley being able to keep a firm grip on his usual centre-back partner in Maxime Esteve could at least come as some source of comfort.

The Frenchman has been linked with a switch away to Crystal Palace, but if the Clarets are serious about their survival hopes, they must keep Esteve around.

The 23-year-old already looks ready-made for the Premier League, with the ex-Montpellier enforcer both confident on the ball with a 91% pass accuracy averaged last season in league action, but also assured when launching into many a tackle.

5 LB – Josip Juranovic

Whilst normally a right-back by trade, Burnley’s lack of a main left-back option could see the Clarets swoop in for reported target Josip Juranovic for help.

The “immense” Croat, as he’s been previously lauded by European football expert Zach Lowy, has been a goal-and-assist machine wherever he’s gone across his nomadic career.

That’s seen in his career tally of 43 goal contributions – but it’s ability to slot in as a right-back, left-back or even as a centre-back with ease that will have piqued Burnley’s interest.

6 CM – Josh Brownhill

Much like Esteve, it would be a complete disaster if Burnley were to lose Josh Brownhill after his sublime promotion heroics.

But, with his contract running down, it could well be a sticky situation to solve.

Still, if they can get their exciting captain to say, it would make the world of difference to the Clarets’ survival odds, considering the wanted star fired home 18 strikes last season as Burnley’s top scorer.

7 CM – Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall

Burnley-linked Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall might soon form a healthy working relationship with Josh Brownhill if the ex-Leicester City man is finally freed from his Stamford Bridge ordeal.

Whilst his time in West London has been rocky after a £30m switch last summer, he showed more than enough for the Foxes for Parker to consider a move, boasting 17 goals and 20 assists in total across his memorable King Power Stadium stay.

8 RM – Marcus Edwards

Now officially a permanent member of the Burnley camp, Marcus Edwards will be raring to go in the Premier League next campaign.

After all, he was once a heavily fancied kid off the block at Tottenham Hotspur, but he would never go on to make a top-flight appearance on the periphery in North London.

Now, after collecting a goal and an assist from 14 Turf Moor clashes, his opportunity finally awaits.

9 CAM – Hannibal Mejbri

Hannibal Mejbri is very much in the same camp as Edwards in attempting to show he belongs at the intimidating level.

He certainly showed he was worthy of competing at the top end of the Championship with Parker’s men, as seen in his respectable tally of one goal and five assists from the number ten spot. Therefore, he could come back to haunt his ex-employers, Manchester United.

10 LM – Jaidon Anthony

Jaidon Anthony will also be bursting with excitement about reentering the Premier League with the Clarets after penning a permanent deal at Turf Moor.

Whilst his team’s stern defence just stole most of the deserved plaudits, Anthony’s high haul of eight goals and seven assists from 43 league clashes went somewhat under the radar.

With Premier League experience also already under his belt with AFC Bournemouth, the 25-year-old could soon cause even more havoc down the left flank for Parker’s men.

Manchester United have endured the worst Premier League season in their history, finishing in 15th place and registering just 42 points – the lowest tally in such a division.

Ruben Amorim was appointed back in November, but has so far been unable to turnaround their fortunes, losing 17 of his 42 matches since taking the reins.

He’s only had one window to make his own mark on the first-team squad at Old Trafford, with Patrick Dorgu his only major investment to date – costing £30m from Italian side Lecce.

However, the 40-year-old will want to part ways with numerous players already on the books, enabling him to have the freedom and funds to make the changes he desires.

With the transfer window just around the corner, numerous players have already been linked with moves to join the Red Devils, potentially using any funds generated from multiple potential sales.

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

Over the last couple of weeks, Liam Delap has been United’s number one target for the centre-forward position as the hierarchy look to provide Amorim with the ammunition he needs.

However, it appears as though the manager is set to miss out on a deal for the 22-year-old, after it was confirmed that he prefers a move to fellow English side Chelsea this summer.

Delap isn’t the only English star touted with a move to Old Trafford this summer, with Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze on their radar, according to American outlet ESPN.

Their report claims that the hierarchy have been looking at a potential deal for the 26-year-old attacking midfielder, who’s registered a total of 16 combined goals and assists in the Premier League this season.

It also states that it’s unclear whether the board can afford him unless they sell players currently at the club, with the Palace star currently boasting a £68m release clause in his contract.

Why United’s £68m target could be the perfect Bruno replacement

Over the last couple of days, club captain Bruno Fernandes has been largely touted with a move away from United, with Saudi Arabian clubs circling for his signature this summer.

The 30-year-old has been the shining light in the squad this season, registering 37 combined goals and assists across all competitions – helping the side reach the Europa League final.

The Portuguese international stated he wanted to stay at Old Trafford despite the defeat, but given the rumoured £700k-per-week contract on the table from Saudi, it would be a huge offer to turn down for the midfielder.

There’s no denying that it would be a huge loss, with it unthinkable where the club would be right now if it wasn’t for his key contributions within the final third.

However, given his age, it may prove to be the final time they can command such a fee for his services, potentially cashing in on him and using the funds to pursue a move for Eze.

When comparing their respective figures from the recent campaign, the Eagles star has matched or bettered Fernandes in multiple key areas, highlighting his ability to step up to the plate if needed.

Eze, who’s been labelled “sensational” by content creator Ollie Thomas, may have registered slightly fewer combined goals and assists, but has registered more shots on target – showcasing his impressive ability in such an area when having the chance to advance.

How Eze compares to Fernandes in the PL (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Eze

Fernandes

Games played

34

36

Goals & assists

16

18

Shots on target per 90

1

0.7

Progressive carries

2.4

2.3

Pass accuracy

76%

76%

% of tackles won

47%

40%

Take-on success

49%

41%

Fouls won

1.8

1.1

Stats via FBref

He’s also completed the same percentage of passes he’s attempted, whilst also completing more take-ons, thriving in chance creation with the ball at his feet.

The England international has also won more of the tackles he’s entered, handing Amorim the option to utilise him in a deeper-lying role should he need to in 2025/26.

Offloading Bruno would be a huge blow and something which would anger a lot of supporters – especially considering his impressive record at Old Trafford since his arrival back in 2020.

However, Eze would be a superb addition, with his stats showcasing that he’s capable of surpassing the level produced by the 30-year-old with the Red Devils – allowing for a new lease of life after such a dismal season.

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