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There have been some miserable nights in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era at Manchester United, with Monday’s defeat to Everton ranking high on that list, having allowed the ten-man Toffees to secure a first away win at Old Trafford for former boss David Moyes.

Ironically, there were shades of Moyes’ own nadir – the 2-2 draw with Fulham back in 2013/14 – about that 1-0 loss, with Ruben Amorim again in danger of heading the same way as the Scotsman in the United dugout.

Indeed, a year in charge has yielded just 12 Premier League wins for the Portuguese coach, with the positivity of the recent five-game unbeaten run now tempered with the angle of three games without a win in the top-flight.

A key crux of the issue is the use – or rather misuse – of Bruno Fernandes in a deep-lying role, with the Red Devils crying out for a new creative hub ahead of him.

Man Utd's search for a successor to Fernandes

From netting 38 goals and assists in all competitions last term, the United skipper has been forced to almost play with the handbrake on, having even operated as the deepest midfielder following Kobbie Mainoo’s introduction against the Merseyside outfit.

Currently looking ill-suited to this 3-4-2-1 system, the 31-year-old – who came close to joining Al Hilal over the summer – might be at the centre of speculation again heading into next year’s World Cup, with his current deal set to expire in 2027.

He does still lead the way at United for big chances created (3) – alongside Amad and Bryan Mbeumo – although that is half as many as the division’s leader, Jeremy Doku (6), as per FotMob, with Fernandes’ powers perhaps on the wane in his new role.

In need of a new chief creator? Well, enter Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise, with reports in Spain suggesting that the Manchester side are among the clubs to have expressed an interest in the fleet-footed Frenchman.

Reportedly valued at around £123m, the 24-year-old is also attracting attention from both Liverpool and Arsenal, albeit with INEOS viewing him as someone who would bring a ‘significant leap in quality’.

Now in his second season in Munich, following a £50m move from Crystal Palace last year, the London-born star is shining in German football. Could he be just what Amorim is looking for?

Why Olise would be a perfect signing for Man United

After a hefty summer of investment totalling almost £250m, there might be a sense that INEOS have already put together their long-term frontline, in the form of Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko.

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

As the recent loss indicated, however, a couple of injuries to that latter duo highlighted the lack of real depth, while the pair’s return of just three goals between them is also cause for concern.

Sesko, in particular, is far from the finished article, with Amorim potentially able to fashion a fluid attacking trio of Cunha off the left, Mbeumo through the middle and Olise on the right, with the Bayern gem currently looking so devastating in that role in Munich.

In the Bundesliga alone this season, the one-time Reading winger has chalked up six goals and six assists for Vincent Kompany’s side, while registering seven big chances created in total, as per Sofascore.

A “magician” – according to Bayern teammate Dayot Upamecano – in the mould of Fernandes, the left-footer has also averaged 2.3 key passes per game, while eclipsing that return from his five Champions League outings, with 2.4 key passes per game.

Three goals and assists and three big chances created have also come amid a standout start to this year’s league phase in Europe, with Olise now rightly lauded as “one of the best players in the world” by the likes of teammate Serge Gnabry.

That lofty status is more than warranted, as he currently ranks in the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s top five leagues for assists and shot-creating actions per 90, as per FBref, while also ranking in the top 4% for progressive passes per 90.

Mason Greenwood

13

Michael Olise

13

Lamine Yamal

11

Antoine Semenyo

9

Ilan Kebbal

9

Christian Pulisic

7

Romain Del Castillo

7

Domenico Berardi

7

Ritsu Doan

7

Bryan Mbeumo

7

In essence, everything he does is with an attacking thought in mind, possessing that Fernandes-esque knack for being able to unlock a defence with a moment of genius.

There is also an at-times erratic quality that comes with that approach, like the Portuguese, having lost possession on average 17 times a game in Germany’s top-flight.

He is a risk-taker, however, and as Monday showcased, United could certainly do with more of that.

Having – perhaps rightly – allowed the likes of Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho to depart, while clipping Fernandes’ wings, this is a squad in desperate need of a game-changer. Olise might just be that.

Worse than Bruno & Casemiro: Amorim can't start Man Utd duo together again

This change could help turn Man Utd’s season around.

ByJoe Nuttall Nov 26, 2025

England have already booked their spot at the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and USA, with Thomas Tuchel’s side looking impressive in the qualifying stages.

The Three Lions didn’t even concede a goal in the six wins that guaranteed their place on the biggest stage, and attention will soon turn to who will be on the plane looking to win England’s first World Cup since 1966.

1970

Quarter-finals

1974

Did not qualify

1978

Did not qualify

1982

Second group stage

1986

Quarter-finals

1990

Fourth place

1994

Did not qualify

1998

Round of 16

2002

Quarter-finals

2006

Quarter-finals

2010

Round of 16

2014

Group stage

2018

Fourth place

2022

Quarter-finals

While there are some stars who are guaranteed to be on the way to North America, such as captain Harry Kane, Tuchel still has a lot to think about between now and June.

Of course, a lot could change between now and the summer, however, here is Chat GPT’s prediction of who will make England’s 26-player squad in Canada, Mexico and USA.

Goalkeepers Jordan Pickford, Dean Henderson, James Trafford

Providing he remains injury free, Jordan Pickford looks set to continue as England number one in 2026 for the ninth successive year.

Providing back up to the Everton star, according to ChatGPT, will be Crystal Palace’s Dean Henderson and Man City’s James Trafford.

Defenders Trent Alexander-Arnold, Reece James, Myles Lewis-Skelly, John Stones, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, Dan Burn

One of the big decisions Tuchel made early on was to drop Trent Alexander-Arnold, however, Chat GPT feels the Real Madrid right-back will win his place back in the 26.

Chelsea’s Reece James and Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly are the other full-back options, with John Stones, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa and Dan Burn at centre-back.

Tottenham’s Djed Spence had been a regular in Tuchel’s squad, however, there’s no place for the full-back in the 26.

Midfielders Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, Adam Wharton, Elliot Anderson, Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, Eberechi Eze

Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson have been a regular in Tuchel’s midfield and could be the partnership that begins the World Cup campaign, backed by Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton.

Further forward, Jude Bellingham has been tipped to return to the squad after being left out recently due to fitness issues.

Chelsea, Arsenal and Aston Villa stars Cole Palmer, Eberechi Eze and Morgan Rogers make up the seven man midfield selection, with no room for the likes of Morgan Gibbs-White or Jordan Henderson.

Forwards Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, Marcus Rashford, Anthony Gordon, Noni Madueke

Interestingly, ChatGPT thinks Tuchel will go with just one out-and-out centre-forward in captain Harry Kane. Marcus Rashford could also play centrally if required and his ‘revival in form’ at Barcelona sees him included.

Meanwhile, Anthony Gordon’s ’growing importance’ under Tuchel sees him included, alongside Arsenal stars Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke and Man City ace Phil Foden.

Notable exclusions from Chat GPT’s forward line include Jarrod Bowen and Ollie Watkins.

The Zimbabwe bowlers put in a more disciplined performance on the second day of the first Test in Bulawayo, but Daryl Mitchell’s gritty 80 ensured New Zealand kept their advantage intact.New Zealand started the day on 92 for no loss and marched to 158 for 1 before losing five wickets for 42 runs. But Mitchell, with the help of the lower order, steered them to 307, ensuring a lead of 158. New Zealand then removed the Zimbabwe openers before stumps, still 127 ahead.In the morning, Blessing Muzarabani gave Zimbabwe a dream start, removing Will Young with the first ball of the day. It was a short delivery and Young fended it towards Nick Welch, who was slightly deeper than usual at short leg and completed the catch with a dive. Welch was not sure if he had taken it cleanly, but the TV umpire found no issues with it.Devon Conway was fluent at the other end. With Muzarabani and Tanaka Chivanga operating from around the wicket, he used the cover drive to good effect and picked up three boundaries with it in three successive overs. Muzarabani switched to over the wicket to deny Conway but by then he was into the last over of his spell.Henry Nicholls, playing his first Test since December 2023, came in at No. 3 and looked a little uncertain. The Zimbabwe seamers found his outside edge a couple of times but they did not carry to the slip cordon. Nicholls grew in confidence as he spent time in the middle. When Newman Nyamhuri missed his line or length, he pounced on it, taking 22 runs off just 24 balls from the left-arm seamer. During this, he also completed 3000 Test runs.Blessing Muzarabani celebrates Michael Bracewell’s dismissal•Zimbabwe Cricket

Conway and Nicholls took New Zealand into the lead before Muzarabani returned to end the 66-run stand for the second wicket. Seeing Nicholls back away, Muzarabani followed him. Two balls earlier, Nicholls had hit a boundary using the same ploy. But this time, he was cramped and ended up hitting the ball straight to Brian Bennett at gully.That triggered a collapse in which New Zealand lost five wickets for 42 runs.Rachin Ravindra was the next to fall, edging Sikandar Raza to slip, where Craig Ervine completed an otherwise regulation catch on the second attempt.After lunch, Chivanga got the reward for his hard work. His extra bounce had Conway, on 88, miscuing an uppercut to Bennett, who took his second catch at gully. In his next over, Chivanga used the short ball to get rid of Tom Blundell, who pulled one into the lap of deep square leg.Muzarabani, too, used the short ball to have Michael Bracewell top-edging a pull. For a moment, it looked like wicketkeeper Tafadzwa Tsiga had misjudged it but he put in a full-stretch dive in the end to complete the catch near fine leg. That left New Zealand at 200 for 6.Mitchell and Mitchell Santner added 33 for the seventh wicket to lend the innings some stability before Santner chipped one back to legspinner Vincent Masekesa. After that, Mitchell took the lead. In the company of Nathan Smith, he brought up his fifty and added 61 for the eighth wicket. Smith played his part by scoring 22 and resisting for 79 balls, of which he took two on the body. He had to eventually retire hurt.With Matt Henry falling soon after and Smith not coming back, Mitchell was forced to take risks. He moved across his stumps to scoop Nyamhuri but missed and lost his middle stump. By then, though, New Zealand had regained their advantage. They extended it when Henry had Ben Curran hooking one to fine leg and Will O’Rourke had Bennett edging one to the wicketkeeper before stumps.

Nottingham Forest have endured a superb upturn in form under Sean Dyche over the last few weeks after the manager took the reins from Ange Postecoglou.

The Englishman has reinstalled a defensive solidity back into the first-team squad, as seen by the club’s recent upturn in form in the Premier League.

His side have only lost twice in his eight games in the role, with his Red managing to keep four clean sheets in the process – including one against Liverpool at Anfield.

The Reds may have lost 2-0 to Brighton and Hove Albion over the weekend, but it’s merely a bump in the road, especially considering the excellent results since his arrival.

However, with the January transfer window rapidly approaching, numerous players have already appeared on their radar to try and bolster the ranks for the remainder of the campaign.

Forest’s hunt for new additions in the January window

In recent weeks, a whole host of players have been touted with a move to join Forest, but Brighton’s Jack Hinshelwood stands out as one of the most consistent players touted with a transfer.

It was reported that Dyche’s side saw the 20-year-old as their primary target for the winter window, but it was unclear about how much a deal would set Evangelos Marinakis back.

However, it seems as though the youngster won’t be departing the AMEX this window, with Fabian Hurzeler’s men not entertaining any offers for his signature.

He’s not the only player currently being considered by the Reds at present, with Inter Milan star Stefan de Vrij another player currently being considered by the club at present.

According to Football Insider, Dyche’s side are keen on a move to land the Dutch international, with the player having just six months left on his deal at the San Siro.

They also state that the board are in the market for added defensive reinforcements in the winter window, which could make the 33-year-old the perfect target.

Why Forest’s latest target would be Milenkovic 2.0

Signing centre-backs from Serie A hasn’t been alien to Forest over recent seasons, with Nikola Milenkovic joining the club from Fiorentina in the summer of 2024.

The Serbian international joined for just £12m, with such a deal being one of the best deals in the club’s history – as seen by his immediate impact in the Premier League last campaign.

He featured in all but one game last campaign, even scoring five times and registering two assists – showcasing his impressive ability at both ends of the pitch.

The 28-year-old managed to win the club’s Player of the Season award in 2024/25, helping the Reds secure European football for the first time in 30 years.

This campaign, he’s still managed to be a key component in the side’s backline, featuring in every minute of the league season and offering the defensive solidity needed in Dyche’s system.

He’s often partnered Murillo at the heart of the defence, but Morato covered his compatriot against the Seagulls at the weekend – even producing a huge mistake which contributed to the defeat.

Such a scenario has no doubt led to rumours over a move for De Vrij in the coming months, which could see a repeat of the deal that saw Milenkovic move to the East Midlands.

The Dutchman, who earns £118k-per-week, has only made two appearances so far this campaign, but he has produced some remarkable stats which could see him thrive in the Premier League.

De Vrij, who’s been dubbed “sensational” by journalist Nima Roodsari, has completed 94% of the passes he’s completed, whilst also completing 100% of the dribbles he’s attempted.

Games played

2

Minutes played

180

Pass accuracy

94%

Dribble success

100%

Tackles made

2

Duels won

5.5

Aerials won

3.5

Aerial success

60%

Such numbers reflect the centre-back’s talent with the ball at his feet – something which is extremely important within the current philosophy at the City Ground.

Without the ball, he’s been just as impressive in Italy’s top division, as seen by his tally of two tackles and 5.5 duels won per 90 for Cristian Chivu’s Inter Milan squad.

Other numbers, such as 3.5 aerials won per 90, subsequently achieving a success rate of 60%, showcase his dominance out of possession – matching Milenkovic’s talents in the Premier League in recent years.

It’s unclear how much a deal for the Dutchman would cost in the upcoming window, but he certainly could offer an experienced and immediate option at the back.

Should he reach the levels produced by Milenkovic in Nottingham, there’s no reason why De Vrij could make himself a fan-favourite in the hunt for European success come the end of the campaign.

Perfect for Anderson: Nottingham Forest make £21m PL star their top target

Nottingham Forest have their eyes on another Premier League star ahead of the January transfer window.

ByEthan Lamb Nov 27, 2025

As IPL 2025 resumes after a break, here are answers to all questions about schedule, player availability and a lot more

Ashish Pant16-May-20254:40

What happened to home advantage in IPL 2025?

What is the situation on the points table?No team is yet to seal a playoffs spot, but a few are almost there, while Chennai Super (CSK), Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are out of the race.Related

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IPL to allow temporary replacements for last leg of 2025 season

Mayank Yadav ruled out of IPL 2025 after another back injury

IPL 2025 scenarios: GT and RCB one win away from playoffs, MI in control of their fate

Gujarat Titans (GT) lead the points table with 16 points and are just one win away from cementing a place in the final four. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), second with 16 points as well, are also one win away. Punjab Kings (PBKS) are on 15 points and need two wins out of three. Mumbai Indians (MI) are fourth with 14 points, while Delhi Capitals (DC) are fifth with 13. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are closer to elimination than the playoffs.Here’s everything you need to know about the IPL 2025 playoffs scenarios.Will the abandoned PBKS vs DC fixture be replayed?Yes, the fixture, which was abandoned after just 10.1 overs in Dharamsala on May 8, will be replayed from scratch on May 24. The runs scored and wickets taken will not be added to the players’ records. The venue has been changed to Jaipur, where PBKS will play all their three remaining league games.So what’s the new schedule?IPL 2025 will restart on Saturday, May 17, with RCB taking on KKR in Bengaluru. The 13 league games (including the PBKS vs DC rematch) that remain will be played from May 17 to 27, which includes two double-header days on May 18 and May 25. Qualifier 1 will take place on May 29, the Eliminator on May 30, Qualifier 2 on June 1 and the final on June 3. The venues for the four playoff games have not been announced yet.ESPNcricinfo LtdThe league matches will be played in six venues: Bengaluru, Jaipur, Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai and Ahmedabad. The match timings remain unchanged: evening games will begin at 7.30pm IST while the afternoon games will start at 3.30pm IST.There will be no matches in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata or any of PBKS’ home venues. Hyderabad and Kolkata were originally scheduled to host the playoffs.Here is the full list of IPL 2025 fixtures.Did all the players return home during the interruption? What about the overseas players – is everyone coming back?The status of overseas players – available or unavailable – has been rapidly changing ever since the IPL announced it was resuming. While a majority of the players are coming back, some high-profile names, like Mitchell Starc, are not, while some England and South Africa players are available only until the league stage ends due to international commitments. For a detailed list of players available and not, click here.GT: They are likely to have their full set of overseas players available, but Jos Buttler will miss the playoffs should GT make it, and so will Kagiso Rabada. Sherfane Rutherford will be available for the rest of the season despite being named in West Indies’ touring squad to Ireland.RCB: Romario Shepherd, Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, Lungi Ngidi, Tim David and Phil Salt have rejoined the RCB squad ahead of the KKR clash. Out of them, Shepherd will be available for the rest of the season, Bethell will be available for only two matches, while Ngidi will be available for the three league games. Josh Hazlewood’s return, however, remains uncertain.6:13

Chopra: RCB were smart in picking players for right slots

PBKS: Xavier Bartlett, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mitchell Owen and Marco Jansen have confirmed their participation, while PBKS are still waiting on Marcus Stoinis, Josh Inglis and Aaron Hardie’s availability. Jansen is part of South Africa’s WTC final squad and will leave once the league games end.MI: MI will have Trent Boult back along with Will Jacks, Ryan Rickelton, Corbin Bosch, Mitchell Santner, Reece Topley, Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Bevon Jacobs. Out of them, Bosch, Rickelton and Jacks will leave once MI are done with their final two league games owing to national commitments, while the rest will be available for the rest of the tournament. It must be noted that MI only play their first game upon resumption on May 21.DC: Australia opener Jake Fraser-McGurk and Mitchell Starc are not returning, while Faf du Plessis’ availability remains unclear. Tristan Stubbs will be back but will leave before the playoffs begin.3:01

Can MI still miss out of the playoffs?

LSG: The overseas LSG players, which include Nicholas Pooran, Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, David Miller and Matthew Breetzke, will link up with the squad by May 18. Out of the lot, Markram is the only player who will leave post the league phase in case LSG qualify for the playoffs, while Shamar Joseph is not coming back.KKR: Most of KKR’s overseas players are back in India, barring Moeen Ali and Rovman Powell. “Powell is undergoing a procedure, while Moeen and his family are down with a viral infection,” a KKR statement said.RR: Jofra Archer will miss RR’s last two games because of a thumb injury, while Maheesh Theekshana is also recovering from a niggle. Shimron Hetmyer, Wanindu Hasaranga, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Kwena Maphaka and Lhuan-dre Pretorius have joined the team.4:43

Moody: SRH were stubborn to change

SRH: Despite already being eliminated, SRH will have the services of Pat Cummins and Travis Head for the remainder of the league. Heinrich Klaasen, Eshan Malinga and Kamindu Mendis will also be back.CSK: Jamie Overton has pulled out of IPL 2025, while it’s unclear if Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway will return. Among those available from their overseas contingent are Afghanistan left-arm wristspinner Noor Ahmad and Sri Lankan quick Matheesha Pathirana.Have there been any tweaks to the rules because of the rearranged season?Yes, the IPL will now allow franchises to sign temporary replacement players for the remainder of the season, but those players will not be eligible for retention ahead of the next auction.DC have brought in fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman in place of Fraser-McGurk using this rule, while Kusal Mendis will come in for Buttler for GT if they make the playoffs. Here are some other replacements for the rest of the season.Meanwhile, Mayank Yadav is out with a fresh back injury.Lastly, what’s the latest with the orange and purple cap lists?Only ten runs separate the top five batters in the race to the orange cap. Suryakumar Yadav leads the run-getters list with 510 runs, but GT openers B Sai Sudharsan (509) and Shubman Gill (508) are hot on his heels. Virat Kohli is marginally behind on 505 runs while Buttler is on 500.On the purple cap list, GT’s Prasidh Krishna and Noor are top of the pile with 20 wickets apiece, while Josh Hazlewood and Trent Boult with 18 each are next in line. Varun Chakravarthy has 17 wickets and is in fifth position.

Seven seamers included in Lions group to shadow England during first two Ashes Tests

Matt Roller30-Sep-2025England will bring Rehan Ahmed, Jordan Cox, and seven fast bowlers to Australia this winter as part of an 18-man Lions squad. Andrew Flintoff’s team will shadow England’s main touring party for the first two Ashes Tests, providing a stable of potential reinforcements at close quarters.The Lions will provide England with their only competitive match practice ahead of November’s first Test in Perth and will then face a Cricket Australia XI (also in Perth) and Australia A (in Brisbane) alongside the first and second Tests. They are also expected to provide the bulk of the England XI to face the Prime Minister’s XI in a pink-ball tour match.Rehan and Cox were both overlooked for the main Ashes squad but will both be on standby at the start of the tour in the event of injury. Will Jacks was preferred to Rehan as the back-up spinner, while Cox’s omission came after England opted against taking a second specialist wicketkeeper, reasoning that Ollie Pope can take the gloves from Jamie Smith if required.Related

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Cox, who also features in England’s T20I squad to play New Zealand in October is expected to miss the final Lions match in order to play in the ILT20 after signing a lucrative replacement deal at Dubai Capitals.Raw seamers Sonny Baker, Josh Hull, Eddie Jack and Mitchell Stanley have all featured regularly in the Lions programme before, while Matthew Fisher – who won his only Test cap three years ago – is rewarded for his strong finish to the County Championship season with Surrey. Fisher’s county team-mate Tom Lawes and Nathan Gilchrist, who is joining Warwickshire from Kent, complete a seven-man pace battery.Thomas Rew, the England Under-19s captain, is one of four new Lions call-ups after impressing for Somerset in the Metro Bank Cup this summer and is named alongside his older brother James. Yorkshire’s Matthew Revis and Glamorgan’s Ben Kellaway and Asa Tribe – who has five ODI and 26 T20I caps for Jersey – are the other new names.Sussex’s James Coles is a notable absentee, but is understood to be prioritising short-form cricket this winter after encouragement from the ECB; he has a contract at the SA20 in early 2026, and is also hoping to line up deals in the Abu Dhabi T10 and the ILT20. Saif Zaib, the leading Championship run-scorer this season, is another curious omission.Sam Cook, who struggled in his maiden Test against Zimbabwe earlier this summer, has also missed out on the Lions tour with England already aware of what he offers them as a medium-fast new-ball option. He could yet come into contention as an injury replacement in the event one of their six Ashes seamers goes down.”There are some unbelievably talented players in this squad, and this is a fantastic opportunity for them to go to Australia, excel in the conditions, and thrive against quality players,” Flintoff said. “At the same time, these players will get a sense of what an away Ashes series is all about.”Meanwhile, Rehan’s youngest brother Farhan Ahmed will captain England’s Under-19s on their tour to the Caribbean in November, following Rew’s Lions call-up. They are due to play seven ODIs – two against USA, five against West Indies – as part of their preparation for the Under-19 World Cup in Namibia and Zimbabwe early next year.”Farhan has been exceptional whenever he has been with the U19s squad and he deservedly gets the opportunity to captain the team for this tour and show his leadership qualities,” Michael Yardy, their head coach, said. “These will be important matches as we begin to fine-tune our plans for the U19s World Cup early next year.”

England Lions in Australia

Squad: Rehan Ahmed, Sonny Baker, Jordan Cox, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, Nathan Gilchrist, Tom Hartley, Tom Haines, Josh Hull, Eddie Jack, Ben Kellaway, Tom Lawes, Ben McKinney, Matthew Revis, James Rew, Tom Rew, Mitchell Stanley, Asa TribeFixtures:
November 13-15: England vs England Lions (Lilac Hill, Perth)
November 21-24: Cricket Australia XI vs England Lions (Lilac Hill, Perth)
November 29-30: Prime Minister’s XI vs England XI (Manuka Oval, Canberra)
December 5-8: Australia A vs England Lions (Allan Border Field, Brisbane)

England Under-19s in West Indies

Squad: Farhan Ahmed (capt), Ralphie Albert, Will Bennison, Ben Dawkins, Caleb Falconer, Jamie Feldman, Matthew Firbank, Alex French, Alex Green, Manny Lumsden, Ben Mayes, James Minto, Isaac Mohammad, Sebastian Morgan, Joe Moores, Jack Nelson, Charlie TaylorFixtures:
November 13 and 19 – Youth ODIs vs United States (both St Vincent)
November 16, 22, 25, 28 and December 1 – Youth ODIs vs West Indies (all St Vincent)

The Asia Cup final went down to the wire as Tilak calmly helped India chase down 147

Alagappan Muthu28-Sep-20253:17

Which Indian spinner had the biggest impact?

India blinked. They were 20 for 3 chasing 147. Their world-beating batting line-up was panicking as Pakistan came at them – this time for every reason because there was a title on the line.A collapse of 9 for 33 had left Salman Agha’s men with no room for error and for the most part they coped with it. They got rid of Abhishek Sharma early. That sent jitters through a middle-order that was upended to accommodate Shubman Gill.A straightforward chase was going pear-shaped. And Tilak Varma felt all of this out in the middle. The quiet of the stands. The belief among the Pakistan players. The doubts of a billion people back home. Somehow he absorbed it all and produced a really special half-century.Concentrating as hard as he had to, there wasn’t a single moment through the innings where Tilak showed emotion. But once it was done, he yelled, he punched, he made little heart signs with his hands and basked in the glory of winning India their ninth Asia Cup title.Farhan’s opening salvoThis entire Asia Cup has been a referendum on Pakistan’s decision to move on from Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. There is credence to the theory that they do not push hard enough when they bat up the order, and the powerplay is not a time to be shy.Sahibzada Farhan went for his shots early•Getty Images

Sahibzada Farhan took that to heart and although he didn’t always come up with the goods, he never stopped swinging. A series of slogs took him to 26 off 21. And those same series of slogs – when they started connecting – brought him 50 off 35.The Pakistan collapseFarhan and Fakhar Zaman were able to put one of India’s bankers – Kuldeep Yadav – under pressure. The left-arm wristspinner’s first two overs went for 23. That prompted Suryakumar Yadav to turn to Varun Chakravarthy, whose mystery Pakistan have just not been able to solve. As if on cue, he took down both of Pakistan’s top scorers. Farhan and Fakhar were the only two to cross 15.On the back of Varun’s incisions, his team-mates came into their own. Axar Patel took two wickets in back-to-back overs. Kuldeep took three in one single over. Pakistan were 107 for 1 with 44 balls to play. They were bowled out with five balls remaining. A large part of their innings involved the batters going for slogs. In the front 10, they either made good contact or just plain missed. So just one wicket fell. In the back 10, the big hits were all mis-hits. So nine wickets fell.Tilak’s methodWhere all his team-mates tried to force the issue, Tilak found ways to trust himself. He was 24 off 26. But he didn’t seem to care. Early in his innings, he hit a back foot punch though extra cover for four off Ashraf. There was no pace on that ball. The only way he could find the boundary was if he timed the ball perfectly. And for that to happen, he had to have the measure of this pitch down pat. He did.Tilak Varma and Shivam Dube’s brisk stand lifted India•Getty Images

That confidence fuelled the rest of his innings, reminding him that he needn’t over-exert himself. India had to settle for either singles or dots through the eighth and ninth overs of the chase as Abrar Ahmed and Saim Ayub stuck to the basics – keeping the stumps in play and asking India to take risks if they wanted to score quickly. Tilak rose to that challenge but even then, he was careful to go after the full one, the one that he could get to the pitch of and negate the turn. All that good work meant even with long-on in play, the ball went for six.In the 15th over, Tilak did another cool thing. With wickets falling around him, he had shown he was ready for a fight. In rebuilding India’s innings with barely a false shot, he showed he was in the zone. Now, seeing Haris Rauf running in, he showed a mind for problem-solving. He had seen how hard it was to hit with pace off the ball. Now that Pakistan were offering pace, he took full toll. Seventeen runs came from that 15th over and changed the complexion of the game. From needing 64 off 36, India needed 47 off 30.Dube cameoIndia were without their first-choice seam-bowling allrounder. Hardik Pandya was nursing a quad niggle and couldn’t make the XI. Shivam Dube did, after resting the last game. He was responsible for two absolutely vital sixes. The first of those showcased his spin-hitting ability as he tonked Abrar down the ground. The second exemplified how well he reads the game. He had faced, and watched from the other end, as Ashraf in the 19th over, tried to hide the ball outside off stump. So when he got back on strike, he indulged in an exaggerated trigger movement across his stumps to get closer to the ball and launch it over wide long-on. Dube contributed 33 off 22 to a momentum-shifting, match-winning, fifth-wicket partnership that yielded 60 runs off 40 balls. He also had to open the bowling for the first time in any format of cricket, finishing with 3-0-23-0. It was a splendid day’s work.The finishThese three India-Pakistan games have taken place under the shadow of far greater events. The two countries were in military conflict earlier this year. The two teams have not shaken hands. The two captains have even been avoiding eye contact. Rauf was fined for making gestures that seemed to point to those cross-border tensions. Jasprit Bumrah used the same gesture – hand pointed down, arcing to the floor – to give it back to Rauf after bringing down his stumps with a yorker.Tilak Varma celebrates a tense victory•AFP/Getty Images

The highly charged atmosphere that has been taking focus away from the cricket now added to it. The two coaches – Mike Hesson and Gautam Gambhir – would not accept being left on the sidelines, sending out messages to help the teams as the equation grew tighter. 30 off 18. 17 off 12. 10 off 6.With eight to get off five, Tilak launched a six over square leg – once more showcasing just how well he had grown accustomed to tough batting conditions and Rauf once again falling short by putting pace on the ball. Everything that happened after that will be turned into a meme. Tilak making the heart sign. Rinku Singh haring off into the distance. Gambhir banging a desk. This was an India-Pakistan classic worth the 41-year wait both teams needed to make the final of the Asia Cup.

Fabrizio Romano has now shared an update on Endrick’s future at Real Madrid, with West Ham’s striker search taking a significant twist.

Endrick is gearing up to leave Real on loan in January, and Nuno Espírito Santo’s side have been touted as one of the fierce contenders for his signature.

The 19-year-old, still widely regarded as one of Brazil’s brightest young prospects, hasn’t exactly had a smooth ride since joining the La Liga giants.

With first-team opportunities limited at the Bernabeu as a result of fitness issues and competition for places in Xabi Alonso’s side, a loan move appears to be the next logical step for his development.

West Ham have reportedly held talks about bringing Endrick on loan, already positioning themselves well in the race for his signature ahead of January.

Other clubs are also interested, like Sevilla, Real Sociedad and Brentford, according to some reports, but West Ham’s reported early discussions could give them an edge.

This comes as Nuno allegedly urges David Sullivan, Karren Brady and the Hammers hierarchy to sign a new defender, midfielder and forward (GiveMeSport), but with funds tight, temporary deals could be a key theme of their winter window.

Endrick is poised to be one of Europe’s finest talents available on loan in January, leaving little wonder why West Ham are very keen to secure his signature.

While the teenager has struggled for game time under Alonso, Endrick did score five Copa del Rey goals to fire Los Blancos to the final of the competition last season, before they eventually lost to Barcelona.

Sunderland 3-0 West Ham

West Ham 1-5 Chelsea

Nottingham Forest 0-3 West Ham

West Ham 0-3 Tottenham

West Ham 1-2 Crystal Palace

Everton 1-1 West Ham

Arsenal 2-0 West Ham

West Ham 0-2 Brentford

Leeds 2-1 West Ham

The former Palmeiras sensation would be an excellent signing for West Ham, and one who’d inject much-needed flair and enthusiasm to their forward line.

The prospect of a Premier League move could also tempt Endrick, as it would do with any other player on the continent, but according to Romano, West Ham now face growing competition for his services.

Fabrizio Romano shares Endrick update as West Ham striker search takes twist

Taking to X, the reliable transfer journalist now claims that Ligue 1 giants Lyon have opened talks to sign Endrick on loan — which could seriously impact West Ham’s chances of a deal.

Endrick is believed to be intrigued by the possibility of a move to France, as Paulo Fonseca’s side already make their intentions known with an “official approach” just over two months before the January window opens.

Commenting further, Romano also says that while Endrick is still waiting to assess all of his options, potentially including West Ham, the attacker is pretty keen on Lyon as an option.

If a move for Endrick eventually becomes out of West Ham’s reach, it is worth noting that they’ve also held rumoured discussions about signing his Real teammate, Gonzalo Garcia.

The Spaniard, who finished last summer’s Club World Cup as the competition’s joint-top scorer, has also struggled to establish himself as a starter for Alonso this season and could be a great alternative to Endrick.

There are other options for West Ham as well, but it is absolutely imperative that the club back Nuno with a new centre-forward, especially considering Niclas Fullkrug’s injury woes and their lack of decent options.

West Ham already working on deal to sign £40 million striker in January.

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