20 days ago
Sourav Ganguly is widely regarded as one of the most influential captains in Indian cricket history. During his career, "Dada" was known for several memorable moments on and off the field, from making Steve Waugh wait at the toss and celebrating shirtless on the Lord's balcony to clashes with coaches Greg Chappell and John Buchanan, arguments with Shane Warne, and refusing to walk after Graeme Smith claimed a catch.
But former Australia captain Michael Clarke has shared another story that shows a lighter side of Ganguly.
In his book Eleven Gods and a Billion Indians, author Boria Majumdar quotes Clarke recalling an incident involving Ganguly and Ricky Ponting during a toss in India, although Clarke admits he does not remember which match it was.
"One of Clarke's favourite anecdotes goes thus: Ganguly and Ricky Ponting were out at the toss during one of the matches in India — Clarke doesn't specifically remember which one — and Ponting had the coin in hand. Just as he flipped the coin, Ganguly, if Clarke is to be believed, said, 'Head-Tail'.
"'Trust me, mate, that's what Ricky told me,' Clarke says, cracking up. 'Ricky said he couldn't fathom what had happened with Dada having said Head-Tail. [And, apparently it was said at the speed of lightning.] It had taken Ricky a second or two to come to grips with the situation and by that time the coin had come down. Ganguly just picked it up and said to Ricky, "We'll bat" and walked off. India had won the toss and were batting. Ricky did not really know what to do or say and all he did was tell us in the dressing room exactly what happened at the toss," Clarke was quoted as saying in the book.
Clarke is not sure which match the incident took place in.
According to available records, Ganguly won five tosses against Ricky Ponting, and all of those came outside India; twice during the 2003 World Cup and three times in the 2003-04 VB Series. That means Clarke may have mixed up the venue while recalling the story, as Ponting would have been the one calling the toss if the match had been played in India.
Clarke, however, clearly states that he does not remember the exact match in which the incident happened.
#clarke #ponting
But former Australia captain Michael Clarke has shared another story that shows a lighter side of Ganguly.
In his book Eleven Gods and a Billion Indians, author Boria Majumdar quotes Clarke recalling an incident involving Ganguly and Ricky Ponting during a toss in India, although Clarke admits he does not remember which match it was.
"One of Clarke's favourite anecdotes goes thus: Ganguly and Ricky Ponting were out at the toss during one of the matches in India — Clarke doesn't specifically remember which one — and Ponting had the coin in hand. Just as he flipped the coin, Ganguly, if Clarke is to be believed, said, 'Head-Tail'.
"'Trust me, mate, that's what Ricky told me,' Clarke says, cracking up. 'Ricky said he couldn't fathom what had happened with Dada having said Head-Tail. [And, apparently it was said at the speed of lightning.] It had taken Ricky a second or two to come to grips with the situation and by that time the coin had come down. Ganguly just picked it up and said to Ricky, "We'll bat" and walked off. India had won the toss and were batting. Ricky did not really know what to do or say and all he did was tell us in the dressing room exactly what happened at the toss," Clarke was quoted as saying in the book.
Clarke is not sure which match the incident took place in.
According to available records, Ganguly won five tosses against Ricky Ponting, and all of those came outside India; twice during the 2003 World Cup and three times in the 2003-04 VB Series. That means Clarke may have mixed up the venue while recalling the story, as Ponting would have been the one calling the toss if the match had been played in India.
Clarke, however, clearly states that he does not remember the exact match in which the incident happened.
#clarke #ponting
26 days ago
Liverpool are understood to have had scouts in attendance to watch one midfielder in whom they'd reportedly taken an interest during the summer transfer window.
There were reports earlier in the week that Anfield chiefs had asked Monaco to delay the proposed sale of Lamine Camara to Chelsea after the two clubs had agreed a £47m deadline day deal on which the Ligue 1 club ultimately pulled the plug (Sky Sports).
The Monegasques' sporting director Thiago Scuro apparently told the 22-year-old that he would complete a major transfer 'very soon' in what seems an attempt to keep him sweet for this season before granting him a move elswhere in 2027.
According to Graeme Bailey for TEAMtalk, Liverpool had scouts watching at the Parc des Princes on Friday night as they kept tabs on the Monaco midfielder in their Ligue 1 clash against Paris Saint-Germain.
Camara is said to have played 'a significant role' as his side came from behind to beat the European champions 2-1 and continue PSG's miserable start to the campaign.
#monaco #ligue #anfield #lamine
There were reports earlier in the week that Anfield chiefs had asked Monaco to delay the proposed sale of Lamine Camara to Chelsea after the two clubs had agreed a £47m deadline day deal on which the Ligue 1 club ultimately pulled the plug (Sky Sports).
The Monegasques' sporting director Thiago Scuro apparently told the 22-year-old that he would complete a major transfer 'very soon' in what seems an attempt to keep him sweet for this season before granting him a move elswhere in 2027.
According to Graeme Bailey for TEAMtalk, Liverpool had scouts watching at the Parc des Princes on Friday night as they kept tabs on the Monaco midfielder in their Ligue 1 clash against Paris Saint-Germain.
Camara is said to have played 'a significant role' as his side came from behind to beat the European champions 2-1 and continue PSG's miserable start to the campaign.
#monaco #ligue #anfield #lamine
1 month ago
Newcastle United's search for an additional attacking reinforcement is showing no signs of slowing down, with Matthias Jaissle's side exploring several possibilities as the transfer window enters its final stretch.
Matias Fernandez-Pardo remains the No. 1 target, with Newcastle nearing an agreement with Lille, but the Magpies could have turned their attention toward another versatile attacker from Italy's Serie A.
According to Foot Mercato's Santi Aouna, Newcastle is interested in Roma's Matias Soule and contact between the parties is already underway.
"Newcastle is interested in Matías Soulé of AS Roma," Aouna reported. "Contact is ongoing between the parties."
TEAMtalk's Graeme Bailey subsequently provided further details, reporting that Soule has been added to Newcastle's attacking shortlist alongside Fernandez-Pardo and Stuttgart's Bilal El Khannouss.
#matias #pardo #attacking #parties
Matias Fernandez-Pardo remains the No. 1 target, with Newcastle nearing an agreement with Lille, but the Magpies could have turned their attention toward another versatile attacker from Italy's Serie A.
According to Foot Mercato's Santi Aouna, Newcastle is interested in Roma's Matias Soule and contact between the parties is already underway.
"Newcastle is interested in Matías Soulé of AS Roma," Aouna reported. "Contact is ongoing between the parties."
TEAMtalk's Graeme Bailey subsequently provided further details, reporting that Soule has been added to Newcastle's attacking shortlist alongside Fernandez-Pardo and Stuttgart's Bilal El Khannouss.
#matias #pardo #attacking #parties
1 month ago
Tottenham have been handed some encouragement in the window, with Liverpool having reached a verbal agreement to sign Bradley Barcola.
Fabrizio Romano confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that the Reds are set to exchange documents in the next 24 hours.
With Spurs' hopes of landing Cody Gakpo this summer reportedly tied to the arrival of one (perhaps even two) forwards ahead of the September 1 deadline, the Dutchman may yet be inching towards the exit door.
(Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)
Graeme Bailey at TEAMtalk notes that Andoni Iraola is understood to be "reluctant" to allow the Dutch international to leave in the current window.
#window #bradley #barcola #romano
Fabrizio Romano confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that the Reds are set to exchange documents in the next 24 hours.
With Spurs' hopes of landing Cody Gakpo this summer reportedly tied to the arrival of one (perhaps even two) forwards ahead of the September 1 deadline, the Dutchman may yet be inching towards the exit door.
(Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)
Graeme Bailey at TEAMtalk notes that Andoni Iraola is understood to be "reluctant" to allow the Dutch international to leave in the current window.
#window #bradley #barcola #romano
1 month ago
Former world snooker champion Graeme Dott has been found guilty of child ***** ual abuse.
The 49-year-old denied two charges of lewd and libidinous behaviour towards a girl and a boy between 1993 and 2010.
During a trial, the High Court in Glasgow heard that Dott had exposed himself and inappropriately touched a primary school girl in the 1990s and attacked a young boy between 2006 and 2010.
Lord Harrower told Dott, who won the World Snooker Championship in 2006, he would be sentenced at a separate hearing in Edinburgh on 29 September.
Dott covered his face with his hands and shook his head while the verdict was delivered by jurors following a five-day trial.
#World #graeme #high
The 49-year-old denied two charges of lewd and libidinous behaviour towards a girl and a boy between 1993 and 2010.
During a trial, the High Court in Glasgow heard that Dott had exposed himself and inappropriately touched a primary school girl in the 1990s and attacked a young boy between 2006 and 2010.
Lord Harrower told Dott, who won the World Snooker Championship in 2006, he would be sentenced at a separate hearing in Edinburgh on 29 September.
Dott covered his face with his hands and shook his head while the verdict was delivered by jurors following a five-day trial.
#World #graeme #high
1 month ago
Marc Guiu has been linked with a move to Manchester City, one of the most unlikely transfer rumours we've heard in a while.
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Things can get very funky in the last week of the transfer window as players and teams get desperate, but still, this is one story we can't quite believe we're seeing.
Graeme Bailey of TeamTalk, who isn't a top source but does at least have a small reputation he wouldn't want to damage, has just put out the story that Manchester City are interesting in signing… (wait for it)… Marc Guiu.
The young striker has been at Chelsea since 2024, but has been buried deep on the depth chart ever since. He hasn't played regularly since the Conference League days.
#Chelsea
If you enjoy Talk Chelsea coverage and want to see more of it, add us as a preferred source on Google to make us a favourite and see more of our content.
Things can get very funky in the last week of the transfer window as players and teams get desperate, but still, this is one story we can't quite believe we're seeing.
Graeme Bailey of TeamTalk, who isn't a top source but does at least have a small reputation he wouldn't want to damage, has just put out the story that Manchester City are interesting in signing… (wait for it)… Marc Guiu.
The young striker has been at Chelsea since 2024, but has been buried deep on the depth chart ever since. He hasn't played regularly since the Conference League days.
#Chelsea
1 month ago
One reporter has explained why Liverpool don't intend to sign a replacement for Curtis Jones in the final few days of the summer transfer window.
The 25-year-old completed a £30m move to Inter Milan on Friday, with the deal also including a 10% sell-on clause for the Reds (Sky Sports), thus reducing the quantity of midfield options available to Andoni Iraola.
Despite persistent rumours of a swoop for Adam Wharton, Lewis Steele indicated in recent days that FSG have no intention of paying £100m for the Crystal Palace powerhouse and aren't planning to enter the market for a midfielder prior to the deadline on Tuesday week.
Transfer insider Graeme Bailey outlined to TEAMtalk that Liverpol ****** sed numerous midfield options earlier this summer (including Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali and Wharton) but concluded that none of those targeted were worth the outlays which would've been required to sign them.
He added that Iraola was blown away' by the performances of Trey Nyoni in pre-season to the extent that the head coach believes the 19-year-old is now 'first-team ready'.
#days #including #options
The 25-year-old completed a £30m move to Inter Milan on Friday, with the deal also including a 10% sell-on clause for the Reds (Sky Sports), thus reducing the quantity of midfield options available to Andoni Iraola.
Despite persistent rumours of a swoop for Adam Wharton, Lewis Steele indicated in recent days that FSG have no intention of paying £100m for the Crystal Palace powerhouse and aren't planning to enter the market for a midfielder prior to the deadline on Tuesday week.
Transfer insider Graeme Bailey outlined to TEAMtalk that Liverpol ****** sed numerous midfield options earlier this summer (including Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali and Wharton) but concluded that none of those targeted were worth the outlays which would've been required to sign them.
He added that Iraola was blown away' by the performances of Trey Nyoni in pre-season to the extent that the head coach believes the 19-year-old is now 'first-team ready'.
#days #including #options
1 month ago
Valtteri Bottas admits the team principal change at Cadillac F1 was bigger change than the changes he expected, in first response.
Over the summer break, Cadillac F1 announced the arrival of Marcin Budkowski as its new team principal in place of Graeme Lowdon. The transition was on expected lines as per TWG Motorsports' Dan Towriss, but he agreed that it happened earlier than what was penned to happen.
He saw the right opportunity to bring in Budkowski, whose technical experience made the difference. There is a communication problem between the factory and trackside, which Towriss hopes can be filled by the experience of the Pole, who has been part of Alpine and also the FIA in the past.
For Cadillac F1 driver Bottas, the news came as a surprise. The Finn reckons it is a big change in the middle of the season, a change which he probably didn't see coming. But he respects the decision taken by Towriss and welcomes Budkowski, whom he doesn't know yet.
He also has praise for the work done by Lowdon, to built Cadillac F1 team from scratch. "I think a big change like this in the middle of the season is always initially surprising," said Bottas to media at Dutch GP. "But then speaking with Dan, etc, explained to me all the reasons why this change and I respect that.
#team #lowdon #expected
Over the summer break, Cadillac F1 announced the arrival of Marcin Budkowski as its new team principal in place of Graeme Lowdon. The transition was on expected lines as per TWG Motorsports' Dan Towriss, but he agreed that it happened earlier than what was penned to happen.
He saw the right opportunity to bring in Budkowski, whose technical experience made the difference. There is a communication problem between the factory and trackside, which Towriss hopes can be filled by the experience of the Pole, who has been part of Alpine and also the FIA in the past.
For Cadillac F1 driver Bottas, the news came as a surprise. The Finn reckons it is a big change in the middle of the season, a change which he probably didn't see coming. But he respects the decision taken by Towriss and welcomes Budkowski, whom he doesn't know yet.
He also has praise for the work done by Lowdon, to built Cadillac F1 team from scratch. "I think a big change like this in the middle of the season is always initially surprising," said Bottas to media at Dutch GP. "But then speaking with Dan, etc, explained to me all the reasons why this change and I respect that.
#team #lowdon #expected
2 months ago
Aston Villa have received a warning over Ollie Watkins' future after Al-Hilal agreed personal terms with the England striker, according to TEAMtalk, with Graeme Bailey reporting on 18 August that the Saudi giants now stand ready to open negotiations. Al-Hilal still need to clear Karim Benzema's situation before they can push ahead.
Watkins, 30, comes off a campaign. He scored 16 Premier League goals and supplied three ******* ists in 37 appearances, then added five goals and two ******* ists in 15 Europa League matches as Villa won the competition. He went to the 2026 World Cup with England, and the Three Lions finished third after beating France 6-4 in Miami. Villa secured their first continental trophy since 1982.
From Villa's perspective, this timing could hardly look worse. Jhon Duran has left for Al-Nassr at the start of the year, Tammy Abraham has struggled to impress and carries an injury concern, while teenager Brian Madjo faces a spell out after picking up an injury. That leaves Watkins as the senior focal point when Emery's side needs attacking continuity. Watkins has scored 15 or more goals in four successive European seasons, so losing that output creates a problem that money can't replace overnight.
KANSAS CITY, KANSAS – JUNE 21: Ollie Watkins #19 of England speaks to the media during an England Press Conference during an England FIFA World Cup 2026 Camp on June 21, 2026 in Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Personal terms, however, don't equal a transfer. Villa should reject any offer and demand a fee that reflects Watkins' importance and his contract, which runs until June 2028. A bid above £60-70 million would create a different discussion because Watkins is 30 and near peak market value.
#england #kansas #hilal
Watkins, 30, comes off a campaign. He scored 16 Premier League goals and supplied three ******* ists in 37 appearances, then added five goals and two ******* ists in 15 Europa League matches as Villa won the competition. He went to the 2026 World Cup with England, and the Three Lions finished third after beating France 6-4 in Miami. Villa secured their first continental trophy since 1982.
From Villa's perspective, this timing could hardly look worse. Jhon Duran has left for Al-Nassr at the start of the year, Tammy Abraham has struggled to impress and carries an injury concern, while teenager Brian Madjo faces a spell out after picking up an injury. That leaves Watkins as the senior focal point when Emery's side needs attacking continuity. Watkins has scored 15 or more goals in four successive European seasons, so losing that output creates a problem that money can't replace overnight.
KANSAS CITY, KANSAS – JUNE 21: Ollie Watkins #19 of England speaks to the media during an England Press Conference during an England FIFA World Cup 2026 Camp on June 21, 2026 in Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Personal terms, however, don't equal a transfer. Villa should reject any offer and demand a fee that reflects Watkins' importance and his contract, which runs until June 2028. A bid above £60-70 million would create a different discussion because Watkins is 30 and near peak market value.
#england #kansas #hilal
2 months ago
Cadillac surprised everyone after ending terms with Graeme Lowdon after the first half of F1 2026, as Dan Towriss explains the reasoning behind it.
With the F1 circus getting back into race mode post the summer break, Cadillac kick-started the news cycle by announcing the departure of team principal Lowdon and replacing him with Marcin Budkowski. The news came as a surprise considering that it's been only half a season in American outfit's first full season.
Former Manor boss Lowdon returned to the F1 grid with Cadillac, as he joined the American outfit even before they were confirmed to make it as the 11th team on the grid. He did the big job of getting everyone together as one team – including the drivers – and start the journey in the winter test to the first half of 2026.
Although the results haven't come by for them thus far, with reliability issues popping up at most rounds, Lowdon did a fair job operationally at trackside. While there has been communication issues from factory to track, but it is part of a problem that any new F1 team would face in its first season.
TWG Motorsports' Dan Towriss acknowledged the work done by Lowdon in getting everything together, but noted that it was always the plan to find a F1 team principal in long-term, especially someone who is from technical background. The American said that there were conversations about a potential transition, just that the timing wasn't fixed.
#team #cadillac #american
With the F1 circus getting back into race mode post the summer break, Cadillac kick-started the news cycle by announcing the departure of team principal Lowdon and replacing him with Marcin Budkowski. The news came as a surprise considering that it's been only half a season in American outfit's first full season.
Former Manor boss Lowdon returned to the F1 grid with Cadillac, as he joined the American outfit even before they were confirmed to make it as the 11th team on the grid. He did the big job of getting everyone together as one team – including the drivers – and start the journey in the winter test to the first half of 2026.
Although the results haven't come by for them thus far, with reliability issues popping up at most rounds, Lowdon did a fair job operationally at trackside. While there has been communication issues from factory to track, but it is part of a problem that any new F1 team would face in its first season.
TWG Motorsports' Dan Towriss acknowledged the work done by Lowdon in getting everything together, but noted that it was always the plan to find a F1 team principal in long-term, especially someone who is from technical background. The American said that there were conversations about a potential transition, just that the timing wasn't fixed.
#team #cadillac #american
2 months ago
Brentford are preparing a renewed move for West Ham United's El Hadji Malick Diouf, with a package worth close to £40 million being put together for the 21-year-old Senegal international. Journalist Graeme Bailey broke the news on X, reporting that the Bees are serious and intent on prising him away from East London this summer.
West Ham signed Diouf from Slavia Prague last year for somewhere in the region of £19–22 million. A £40 million offer would effectively double that outlay in barely twelve months. The Hammers are operating in the Championship after last season's relegation, which adds a dictating factor to every contract and transfer conversation at the London Stadium right now.
Diouf contributed five **** ists across 32 Premier League appearances in 2025/26, logging 2,711 minutes despite West Ham's drop. Zero goals, yes, but his underlying numbers told a different story. He averaged 3.62 crosses and 0.23 big chances created per 90 minutes, figures that placed him among the division's elite full-backs. He went to the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Senegal and featured in three matches. Nuno Espírito Santo reportedly views him as a "polished diamond" for the club's Championship promotion push. That's not PR fluff; that's a technical **** sment.
LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 25: El Hadji Malick Diouf of West Ham United warms up prior to the Premier League match between West Ham United and Everton at London Stadium on April 25, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
Here's the thing: West Ham don't need this money. They've already banked a combined £140 million from selling Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes this summer. There's zero financial pressure forcing Nuno's hand. Diouf's Championship output would be absurd; a left-back with World Cup minutes and Premier League-level crossing accuracy playing in the second tier is a categorical mismatch in West Ham's favour.
#west
West Ham signed Diouf from Slavia Prague last year for somewhere in the region of £19–22 million. A £40 million offer would effectively double that outlay in barely twelve months. The Hammers are operating in the Championship after last season's relegation, which adds a dictating factor to every contract and transfer conversation at the London Stadium right now.
Diouf contributed five **** ists across 32 Premier League appearances in 2025/26, logging 2,711 minutes despite West Ham's drop. Zero goals, yes, but his underlying numbers told a different story. He averaged 3.62 crosses and 0.23 big chances created per 90 minutes, figures that placed him among the division's elite full-backs. He went to the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Senegal and featured in three matches. Nuno Espírito Santo reportedly views him as a "polished diamond" for the club's Championship promotion push. That's not PR fluff; that's a technical **** sment.
LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 25: El Hadji Malick Diouf of West Ham United warms up prior to the Premier League match between West Ham United and Everton at London Stadium on April 25, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
Here's the thing: West Ham don't need this money. They've already banked a combined £140 million from selling Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes this summer. There's zero financial pressure forcing Nuno's hand. Diouf's Championship output would be absurd; a left-back with World Cup minutes and Premier League-level crossing accuracy playing in the second tier is a categorical mismatch in West Ham's favour.
#west
2 months ago
Newcastle United's search for midfield help remains one of the club's biggest priorities with the Premier League season approaching, particularly after Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg turned down a move to St. James' Park following advanced talks.
According to TEAMtalk's Graeme Bailey, Newcastle is now involved in situations concerning two Inter Milan midfielders. The Magpies have been offered the chance to sign Davide Frattesi and have also inquired about highly rated 21-year-old Aleksandar Stankovic, though landing the latter looks like a very long shot.
"We can now reveal that intermediaries working on Frattesi's situation have made Newcastle aware of his potential availability," Bailey reported.
Frattesi, 26, has been told he can leave Inter this summer as the Italian club attempts to create room in its squad for Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones, whom Bailey says Inter remains determined to sign.
TEAMtalk reports that Inter values Frattesi at approximately €30 million (£26 million), with Juventus also showing interest. The Italy international is believed to be willing to move to the Premier League after previously attracting interest from Nottingham Forest in January.
#bailey #million
According to TEAMtalk's Graeme Bailey, Newcastle is now involved in situations concerning two Inter Milan midfielders. The Magpies have been offered the chance to sign Davide Frattesi and have also inquired about highly rated 21-year-old Aleksandar Stankovic, though landing the latter looks like a very long shot.
"We can now reveal that intermediaries working on Frattesi's situation have made Newcastle aware of his potential availability," Bailey reported.
Frattesi, 26, has been told he can leave Inter this summer as the Italian club attempts to create room in its squad for Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones, whom Bailey says Inter remains determined to sign.
TEAMtalk reports that Inter values Frattesi at approximately €30 million (£26 million), with Juventus also showing interest. The Italy international is believed to be willing to move to the Premier League after previously attracting interest from Nottingham Forest in January.
#bailey #million
2 months ago
In a recent report, journalist Graeme Bailey mentioned that Manchester City are in talks to land Barcelona youngster Tommy Marques. It has been claimed that the Mancunian club will have to compete with Borussia Dortmund and Braga in the race to sign the Spanish talent in this transfer window.
Marques is a product of Barcelona's La Masia academy and deserves credit for breaking into their first team last season. The 19-year-old featured in two matches for the Catalan club in the previous campaign.
The talented teenager is currently one of the most gifted young central midfielders in La Liga. Hence, Man City would do well to get a deal over the line for him this month.
His current contract at the Catalan club will run out in the summer of 2028. Hence, the Mancunian giants would have to make a convincing offer if they want to recruit him in this transfer window.
HONG KONG, CHINA – AUGUST 1: Head coach Enzo Maresca of Manchester City gestures during the Manchester City v Inter Milan – Pre-Season Friendly at Kai Tak Stadium on August 1, 2026 in Hong Kong, China. (Photo by Yu Chun Christopher Wong/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
#marques #mancunian #catalan #hence
Marques is a product of Barcelona's La Masia academy and deserves credit for breaking into their first team last season. The 19-year-old featured in two matches for the Catalan club in the previous campaign.
The talented teenager is currently one of the most gifted young central midfielders in La Liga. Hence, Man City would do well to get a deal over the line for him this month.
His current contract at the Catalan club will run out in the summer of 2028. Hence, the Mancunian giants would have to make a convincing offer if they want to recruit him in this transfer window.
HONG KONG, CHINA – AUGUST 1: Head coach Enzo Maresca of Manchester City gestures during the Manchester City v Inter Milan – Pre-Season Friendly at Kai Tak Stadium on August 1, 2026 in Hong Kong, China. (Photo by Yu Chun Christopher Wong/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
#marques #mancunian #catalan #hence
2 months ago
Liverpool have been linked with a prospective move for teenage Paris Saint-Germain winger Ibrahim Mbaye.
In late July, Graeme Bailey reported for TEAMtalk that the 18-year-old has been offered to the Reds, with a 'growing belief within the player's entourage' that an exit from the Parc des Princes 'would be the best decision for his long-term development'.
On Tuesday night, Fabrice Hawkins revealed (as later corroborated by Fabrizio Romano) that the Merseysiders are now 'pushing' to sign the youngster, who's believed to be 'keen' on a potential move to Anfield.
If Liverpool are to swoop for Mbaye, they'll be hoping to win big from that transfer, and you can win big from high-quality slot games with gamblerina.
Unlike his PSG teammate and fellow Reds target Bradley Barcola, the 18-year-old is primarily a right winger, a position where Iraola's squad is in need of reinforcement in the final month of the transfer window.
#mbaye
In late July, Graeme Bailey reported for TEAMtalk that the 18-year-old has been offered to the Reds, with a 'growing belief within the player's entourage' that an exit from the Parc des Princes 'would be the best decision for his long-term development'.
On Tuesday night, Fabrice Hawkins revealed (as later corroborated by Fabrizio Romano) that the Merseysiders are now 'pushing' to sign the youngster, who's believed to be 'keen' on a potential move to Anfield.
If Liverpool are to swoop for Mbaye, they'll be hoping to win big from that transfer, and you can win big from high-quality slot games with gamblerina.
Unlike his PSG teammate and fellow Reds target Bradley Barcola, the 18-year-old is primarily a right winger, a position where Iraola's squad is in need of reinforcement in the final month of the transfer window.
#mbaye
2 months ago
Ilika PLC (AIM:IKA, OTCQX:ILIKF, FRA:I8A) this week outlined continued commercial progress across its Stereax and Goliath solid-state battery businesses, with chief executive Graeme Purdy highlighting the company's transition into revenue generation alongside several commercial catalysts expected over the next 12 to 18 months.
Purdy, in an interview in the Proactive studio, said the most significant development for the Stereax business had been its move into commercial production, with Ilika now supplying commercial-grade electrodes to Cirtec for incorporation into the M300 medical device product, which is expected to reach the market later this year.
He said the company had already recognised approximately £100,000 in revenue during the previous financial year, describing it as an early indicator of future growth. Purdy added that a second revenue stream is expected to emerge through royalty payments once products incorporating Stereax batteries are sold to end customers.
Here, we take a closer look at what was said when Graeme Purdy joined the Proactive studio.
Proactive: You've described the past year as one of strong commercial progress. What do you see as the standout achievements across both the Stereax and Goliath programmes?
#graeme
Purdy, in an interview in the Proactive studio, said the most significant development for the Stereax business had been its move into commercial production, with Ilika now supplying commercial-grade electrodes to Cirtec for incorporation into the M300 medical device product, which is expected to reach the market later this year.
He said the company had already recognised approximately £100,000 in revenue during the previous financial year, describing it as an early indicator of future growth. Purdy added that a second revenue stream is expected to emerge through royalty payments once products incorporating Stereax batteries are sold to end customers.
Here, we take a closer look at what was said when Graeme Purdy joined the Proactive studio.
Proactive: You've described the past year as one of strong commercial progress. What do you see as the standout achievements across both the Stereax and Goliath programmes?
#graeme
2 months ago
In a recent report, journalist Graeme Bailey claimed that Manchester United are keeping a keen eye on Newcastle United full-back Lewis Hall. It has been mentioned that the Red Devils are eyeing a move to bring the English defender to Old Trafford this summer.
Hall enjoyed a good run of form at the Tyneside club in the previous campaign as he was responsible for putting in a run of consistent displays on the left side of their defence. The 21-year-old scored one goal and grabbed two ******* ists in 47 matches for Newcastle last season across multiple competitions.
The English talent is currently among the most talented full-backs in the Premier League. Hence, it is no wonder that the Red Devils are hoping to land him this off-season.
His current deal at St. James' Park will run out in the summer of 2029, which could make it difficult for Man United to sign him on a cut-price deal later this year.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – MAY 02: Lewis Hall of Newcastle United controls the ball during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion at St James' Park on May 02, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
#newcastle #james #park
Hall enjoyed a good run of form at the Tyneside club in the previous campaign as he was responsible for putting in a run of consistent displays on the left side of their defence. The 21-year-old scored one goal and grabbed two ******* ists in 47 matches for Newcastle last season across multiple competitions.
The English talent is currently among the most talented full-backs in the Premier League. Hence, it is no wonder that the Red Devils are hoping to land him this off-season.
His current deal at St. James' Park will run out in the summer of 2029, which could make it difficult for Man United to sign him on a cut-price deal later this year.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – MAY 02: Lewis Hall of Newcastle United controls the ball during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion at St James' Park on May 02, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
#newcastle #james #park
3 months ago
In a recent report, journalist Graeme Bailey claimed that Sunderland are among the clubs hoping to sign Barcelona ace Roony Bardghji. It has been mentioned that the Black Cats would have to rival Aston Villa, Brighton and Hove Albion, Brentford and Everton in the race to sign the Swedish wide player later this year.
Bardghji endured an inconsistent campaign at the Catalan club but managed to put in a string of impressive displays for them in the final third. The 20-year-old registered two goals and picked up four ****** ists in 28 matches for Barcelona last season across various competitions.
The Swedish talent is currently among the most gifted wide players in La Liga. Hence, it is no surprise that Sunderland are in the running to land him this off-season.
His current contract at the Nou Camp will run out in the summer of 2029, which could make it tough for the Black Cats to sign him on a cut-price deal in this transfer window.
MADRID, SPAIN – APRIL 14: Roony Bardghji of FC Barcelona in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Quarter-Final Second Leg match between Club Atlético de Madrid and FC Barcelona at on April 14, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Bardghji endured an inconsistent campaign at the Catalan club but managed to put in a string of impressive displays for them in the final third. The 20-year-old registered two goals and picked up four ****** ists in 28 matches for Barcelona last season across various competitions.
The Swedish talent is currently among the most gifted wide players in La Liga. Hence, it is no surprise that Sunderland are in the running to land him this off-season.
His current contract at the Nou Camp will run out in the summer of 2029, which could make it tough for the Black Cats to sign him on a cut-price deal in this transfer window.
MADRID, SPAIN – APRIL 14: Roony Bardghji of FC Barcelona in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Quarter-Final Second Leg match between Club Atlético de Madrid and FC Barcelona at on April 14, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
3 months ago
In a recent report, journalist Graeme Bailey stated that Tottenham Hotspur are hoping to re-sign Bayern Munich superstar Harry Kane. It has been mentioned that Spurs are eyeing a move to bring him back to England, but are facing competition from Barcelona and Real Madrid in the race to land the England international.
Kane enjoyed a decent run of form at the German club in the previous campaign as he put in a lot of impressive displays for them in the final third. The 32-year-old banged in 61 goals and earned seven ***** ists in 51 matches for Bayern Munich last season in various competitions.
The English talent is currently among the most feared strikers in Europe. Hence, Spurs would do well to re-sign him in this summer transfer window.
His current contract at the Allianz Arena will run out at the end of next season, which could open the door for Tottenham to land him on the cheap this summer or on a free transfer at the end of next season.
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JULY 11: Harry Kane #9 of England during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between Norway and England at Miami Stadium on July 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Kane enjoyed a decent run of form at the German club in the previous campaign as he put in a lot of impressive displays for them in the final third. The 32-year-old banged in 61 goals and earned seven ***** ists in 51 matches for Bayern Munich last season in various competitions.
The English talent is currently among the most feared strikers in Europe. Hence, Spurs would do well to re-sign him in this summer transfer window.
His current contract at the Allianz Arena will run out at the end of next season, which could open the door for Tottenham to land him on the cheap this summer or on a free transfer at the end of next season.
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JULY 11: Harry Kane #9 of England during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between Norway and England at Miami Stadium on July 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
3 months ago
In a recent report, journalist Graeme Bailey claimed that Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones is still on the radar of Inter Milan. It has been stated that the Italian outfit are planning to launch a third offer to sign the English midfield ace from the Reds this summer.
Jones enjoyed a good run of form at the Merseyside club in the previous campaign when he put in a string of impressive displays for them at the centre of the park. The 25-year-old found the back of the net three times and secured three ****** ists in 49 matches for Liverpool last season on all fronts.
The English sensation is currently among the most talented central midfielders in the Premier League. Thus, Liverpool should consider keeping hold of him beyond this summer.
However, his current deal at Anfield will run out at the end of next season. Hence, the Reds have got no choice but to sell him for a reduced fee this off-season or else risk losing him on a free transfer next summer.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – MAY 24: Curtis Jones of Liverpool looks on during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Brentford at Anfield on May 24, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Jack Thomas/Getty Images)
Jones enjoyed a good run of form at the Merseyside club in the previous campaign when he put in a string of impressive displays for them at the centre of the park. The 25-year-old found the back of the net three times and secured three ****** ists in 49 matches for Liverpool last season on all fronts.
The English sensation is currently among the most talented central midfielders in the Premier League. Thus, Liverpool should consider keeping hold of him beyond this summer.
However, his current deal at Anfield will run out at the end of next season. Hence, the Reds have got no choice but to sell him for a reduced fee this off-season or else risk losing him on a free transfer next summer.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – MAY 24: Curtis Jones of Liverpool looks on during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Brentford at Anfield on May 24, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Jack Thomas/Getty Images)
3 months ago
Barcelona’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez has encountered another significant obstacle, with Atletico Madrid prepared to negotiate with ******* nal while remaining unwilling to strengthen one of their biggest domestic rivals.
According to journalist Graeme Bailey, the Spanish club has made their position clear to the striker’s representatives, even as Barcelona continue to view the Argentina international as their leading attacking target this summer.
The update comes at a time when ******* nal’s interest in Julian Alvarez is gathering momentum.
The Premier League champions are actively exploring attacking reinforcements and believe they have a realistic opportunity if Barcelona are ultimately unable to complete a deal.
Despite that growing competition, it is crucial to note that those close to the player insist his preferred destination has not changed.
According to journalist Graeme Bailey, the Spanish club has made their position clear to the striker’s representatives, even as Barcelona continue to view the Argentina international as their leading attacking target this summer.
The update comes at a time when ******* nal’s interest in Julian Alvarez is gathering momentum.
The Premier League champions are actively exploring attacking reinforcements and believe they have a realistic opportunity if Barcelona are ultimately unable to complete a deal.
Despite that growing competition, it is crucial to note that those close to the player insist his preferred destination has not changed.
3 months ago
In a recent report, journalist Graeme Bailey claimed that Manchester City are eager to recruit Newcastle United star Bruno Guimaraes. It has been mentioned that the Mancunian club are trailing ***** nal in the race to land the Brazilian midfield ace, who wants to leave the Magpies this summer.
Guimaraes enjoyed a decent run of form at the Tyneside club as he was responsible for putting in a series of influential performances for them in the middle of the park. The 28-year-old made 41 appearances for Newcastle last season, scoring nine times and securing eight ***** ists in various competitions.
The Brazilian sensation is currently one of the best central midfielders in the Premier League. Hence, it is no surprise that Man City are in the mix to recruit him this off-season.
His current contract at St. James' Park will run out in the summer of 2028, which could make it tough for the Mancunian club to sign him on a cut-price deal later this year.
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – JULY 05: Bruno Guimaraes #8 of Brazil prepares for kick off the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Brazil and Norway at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 05, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
Guimaraes enjoyed a decent run of form at the Tyneside club as he was responsible for putting in a series of influential performances for them in the middle of the park. The 28-year-old made 41 appearances for Newcastle last season, scoring nine times and securing eight ***** ists in various competitions.
The Brazilian sensation is currently one of the best central midfielders in the Premier League. Hence, it is no surprise that Man City are in the mix to recruit him this off-season.
His current contract at St. James' Park will run out in the summer of 2028, which could make it tough for the Mancunian club to sign him on a cut-price deal later this year.
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – JULY 05: Bruno Guimaraes #8 of Brazil prepares for kick off the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Brazil and Norway at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 05, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
3 months ago
Liverpool are reportedly among numerous clubs to have dispatched scouts to watch a teenage defender who caught the eye at the 2026 World Cup.
FSG have implemented a clear strategy to invest in long-term potential at centre-back, with several young signings in that position over the past year, including Giovanni Leoni and Jeremy Jacquet for the first team, and the likes of Dara Jikiemi and Mor Talla Ndiaye for the academy.
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The defensive recruitment drive mightn’t have finished, either, judging by a report which has emerged on Wednesday afternoon.
According to Graeme Bailey for TEAMtalk, Liverpool are among several Premier League clubs to have ******* igned scouts to keep a close watch on Lucas Herrington, who plays for Colorado Rapids in MLS and represented Australia at this year’s World Cup.
FSG have implemented a clear strategy to invest in long-term potential at centre-back, with several young signings in that position over the past year, including Giovanni Leoni and Jeremy Jacquet for the first team, and the likes of Dara Jikiemi and Mor Talla Ndiaye for the academy.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL EMPIRE OF THE KOP APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
The defensive recruitment drive mightn’t have finished, either, judging by a report which has emerged on Wednesday afternoon.
According to Graeme Bailey for TEAMtalk, Liverpool are among several Premier League clubs to have ******* igned scouts to keep a close watch on Lucas Herrington, who plays for Colorado Rapids in MLS and represented Australia at this year’s World Cup.
3 months ago
It came as no great surprise that Nathan Ake and John Stones departed Manchester City this summer. Ake has completed a move to Turkish giants Fenerbahce. John Stones’ contract wasn’t renewed and he has departed the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders. While their departures were expected, they do leave a void in terms of leadership and experience in Manchester City’s defence. Ruben Dias has also been linked with a summer move away from Manchester City. However, with Ake and Stones both gone, City simply cannot afford to lose their defensive leader.
Nathan Ake and John Stones were the only bit-part players for Manchester City last season. Ake was ever reliable for his team, although he was used as a squad player during the 2025-26 season by Pep Guardiola. Injuries wrecked the 2025-26 campaign for John Stones, which led to him being released. While the pair were predominantly on the periphery of the City squad last season, their experience and leadership were important to Pep Guardiola’s new-look side.
Now that Stones and Ake are both gone, Ruben Dias with his leadership, presence, and experience will play a huge role in Enzo Maresca’s squad. Yes, Dias will face competition for a place in the City starting eleven. Josko Gvardiol, Abdukodir Khusanov, Marc Guehi, and Vitor Reis will all be eager to start. However, Ruben Dias has the intangibles that Manchester City need. When fully fit, Dias remains an elite centre-back. He is also Manchester City’s most experienced defender and his leadership will be huge for his team next season.
Also, with Bernardo Silva, John Stones and Nathan Ake having already left Manchester City, the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders will not want to create a leadership void if Ruben Dias did depart. That cannot happen as it may be a blow that will take City too much time to overcome.
Real Madrid were credited with an interest in signing Ruben Dias from Manchester City this summer. However, it now seems like Manchester City’s intention is to keep their defensive leader. Graeme Bailey has reported for TeamTalk that City have rejected enquiries from Real Madrid, Barcelona and Chelsea for Ruben Dias. Manchester City’s stance is that the Portuguese international is not for sale. Furthermore, Bailey reports that Dias is viewed as one of the foundations of Enzo Maresca’s squad and no offers for him will be entertained.
Nathan Ake and John Stones were the only bit-part players for Manchester City last season. Ake was ever reliable for his team, although he was used as a squad player during the 2025-26 season by Pep Guardiola. Injuries wrecked the 2025-26 campaign for John Stones, which led to him being released. While the pair were predominantly on the periphery of the City squad last season, their experience and leadership were important to Pep Guardiola’s new-look side.
Now that Stones and Ake are both gone, Ruben Dias with his leadership, presence, and experience will play a huge role in Enzo Maresca’s squad. Yes, Dias will face competition for a place in the City starting eleven. Josko Gvardiol, Abdukodir Khusanov, Marc Guehi, and Vitor Reis will all be eager to start. However, Ruben Dias has the intangibles that Manchester City need. When fully fit, Dias remains an elite centre-back. He is also Manchester City’s most experienced defender and his leadership will be huge for his team next season.
Also, with Bernardo Silva, John Stones and Nathan Ake having already left Manchester City, the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders will not want to create a leadership void if Ruben Dias did depart. That cannot happen as it may be a blow that will take City too much time to overcome.
Real Madrid were credited with an interest in signing Ruben Dias from Manchester City this summer. However, it now seems like Manchester City’s intention is to keep their defensive leader. Graeme Bailey has reported for TeamTalk that City have rejected enquiries from Real Madrid, Barcelona and Chelsea for Ruben Dias. Manchester City’s stance is that the Portuguese international is not for sale. Furthermore, Bailey reports that Dias is viewed as one of the foundations of Enzo Maresca’s squad and no offers for him will be entertained.
3 months ago
Your club-by-club guide to the summer 2026 transfers in Scotland's top tier.
Who has your Premiership club brought in & let go? - January 2026
In: Tony Yogane, forward (Brentford, undisclosed); Ayoub Mouloua, forward (Rabat); Connor Ronan, midfielder (Colorado Rapids); Alexander Briedl, midfielder (Blau-Weiss Linz); Brad Lyons, midfielder (Kilmarnock); Lewis Mayo, defender (Kilmarnock); Dan Happe, defender (Leyton Orient); Toyosi Olusanya, forward (Houston Dynamo, loan to permanent).
Out: Graeme Shinnie, midfielder (Inverness Caledonian Thistle); Per Kristian Bratveit, goalkeeper; Ryan Duncan, midfielder; Vicente Besuijen, forward; Tom McIntyre, defender; Elvis Bwomono, defender; Conner Douglas, goalkeeper; Oliver Green, defender; Tristan Stephen, forward.
Loan ended: Dennis Geiger, midfielder (Hoffenheim); Lyall Cameron, midfielder (Rangers); Liam Morrison, defender (Queens Park Rangers).
Who has your Premiership club brought in & let go? - January 2026
In: Tony Yogane, forward (Brentford, undisclosed); Ayoub Mouloua, forward (Rabat); Connor Ronan, midfielder (Colorado Rapids); Alexander Briedl, midfielder (Blau-Weiss Linz); Brad Lyons, midfielder (Kilmarnock); Lewis Mayo, defender (Kilmarnock); Dan Happe, defender (Leyton Orient); Toyosi Olusanya, forward (Houston Dynamo, loan to permanent).
Out: Graeme Shinnie, midfielder (Inverness Caledonian Thistle); Per Kristian Bratveit, goalkeeper; Ryan Duncan, midfielder; Vicente Besuijen, forward; Tom McIntyre, defender; Elvis Bwomono, defender; Conner Douglas, goalkeeper; Oliver Green, defender; Tristan Stephen, forward.
Loan ended: Dennis Geiger, midfielder (Hoffenheim); Lyall Cameron, midfielder (Rangers); Liam Morrison, defender (Queens Park Rangers).
3 months ago
In the final part of Thursday's Q&A, BBC Radio Suffolk's Graeme McLoughlin focuses on the pathway of breaking into the first team and whether Gary O'Neil values it, and which teams could be in trouble this season in the Premier League.
Adrian asked: We didn't see as many homegrown players play regularly in the first team under Kieran McKenna as perhaps supporters would have liked. Now that we are moving up to the Premier League, what does the new manager think would be the pathway to breaking into the first team now, and will that differ to the most recent one?
Graeme: Well Gary O'Neil made it clear during his first press conference last week that he is massively impressed by the new look training base at the club, along with the academy set-up.
In the ideal world of his and most supporters, Town would have several academy products competing for regular first team football. However, it's just not the reality of where the club – or most clubs in the Premier League – is at the moment, and in the immediate future, I don't think we will see a lot of change.
Be prepared for more buying and selling, and more members of the youth teams being loaned out. That being said, I think it's a real positive that Town's U21s will compete in he EFL Trophy this season, as this will give youngsters at the club a real taste of senior football.
Adrian asked: We didn't see as many homegrown players play regularly in the first team under Kieran McKenna as perhaps supporters would have liked. Now that we are moving up to the Premier League, what does the new manager think would be the pathway to breaking into the first team now, and will that differ to the most recent one?
Graeme: Well Gary O'Neil made it clear during his first press conference last week that he is massively impressed by the new look training base at the club, along with the academy set-up.
In the ideal world of his and most supporters, Town would have several academy products competing for regular first team football. However, it's just not the reality of where the club – or most clubs in the Premier League – is at the moment, and in the immediate future, I don't think we will see a lot of change.
Be prepared for more buying and selling, and more members of the youth teams being loaned out. That being said, I think it's a real positive that Town's U21s will compete in he EFL Trophy this season, as this will give youngsters at the club a real taste of senior football.
3 months ago
Mumbai: Teenaged batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's wait for his maiden India cap continued on Sunday when he wasn't included in the XI for the second T20I against Ireland at Belfast, with India's team management remaining firm on its decision to play openers Sanju Samson, India's 2026 T20 World Cup hero, and the explosive Abhishek Sharma, who hit a fifty in the visitors' stunning 34-run defeat to the hosts in the opening T20I on Friday.
India's decision to keep the 15-year-old wonderboy of world cricket on the bench for now has sparked a debate. Former England off-spin stalwart Graeme Swann feels that left to him, the destructive Bihar and Rajasthan Royals opener, whom termed as "generational talent," would be making his India debut immediately.
"Well, if I were an Indian captain or coach, I would have him in immediately. I've said this, I'm a huge fan of Vaibhav. He's a generational talent and I'd say get him in ASAP. The way he played in the IPL this year, having started last season and doing incredibly well, again, everyone's heads turning and thinking, who is this kid? I think there was an expectation that his performances would taper, would fall off this season. If anything, he got better and better. And that little mid IPL blip, one or two games where people thought, ‘oh, he's got a weakness if we bowl very full.’ And they got him out with Yorkers a couple of times. He got a couple of low scores. He immediately adapted and then scored at a terrific rate in the next few knocks. I think he is a sort of once in a generation talent, generational talent that comes around. And I think the sooner that India plays him, the sooner they expose him to international cricket. There is no reason why he cannot be the best player in the world for the next 15 years. I think he's that good," Swann said at an interaction on Sunday.
Batting vigorously for Sooryavanshi's inclusion, Swann said that he was doing so while factoring in the logic of "dropping someone who doesn't necessarily deserve to be dropped," purely because "Sooryavanshi has outperformed them all in the IPL."
"Of course, I do understand the sensibilities of just picking him, and dropping someone who doesn't necessarily deserve to be dropped. And that's where India have a bit of an issue at the minute, because when you look at the first XI, you look at the batting lineup, there's not really anyone who you'd say, well, they deserve to be dropped on performances. You could argue that, well, Sooryavanshi has outperformed them all in the IPL, which he did. Let's face it, his stats don't lie. He hit more sixes than Chris Gayle. He scored more runs at a better rate than anybody. So, I would build an attack, a batting line-up around him. And yes, someone will miss out and it will be tough on them on the back of winning world trophies and everything like that and then potentially missing out. But if you can find a way of getting him in and exposing him, he can hit the best b
India's decision to keep the 15-year-old wonderboy of world cricket on the bench for now has sparked a debate. Former England off-spin stalwart Graeme Swann feels that left to him, the destructive Bihar and Rajasthan Royals opener, whom termed as "generational talent," would be making his India debut immediately.
"Well, if I were an Indian captain or coach, I would have him in immediately. I've said this, I'm a huge fan of Vaibhav. He's a generational talent and I'd say get him in ASAP. The way he played in the IPL this year, having started last season and doing incredibly well, again, everyone's heads turning and thinking, who is this kid? I think there was an expectation that his performances would taper, would fall off this season. If anything, he got better and better. And that little mid IPL blip, one or two games where people thought, ‘oh, he's got a weakness if we bowl very full.’ And they got him out with Yorkers a couple of times. He got a couple of low scores. He immediately adapted and then scored at a terrific rate in the next few knocks. I think he is a sort of once in a generation talent, generational talent that comes around. And I think the sooner that India plays him, the sooner they expose him to international cricket. There is no reason why he cannot be the best player in the world for the next 15 years. I think he's that good," Swann said at an interaction on Sunday.
Batting vigorously for Sooryavanshi's inclusion, Swann said that he was doing so while factoring in the logic of "dropping someone who doesn't necessarily deserve to be dropped," purely because "Sooryavanshi has outperformed them all in the IPL."
"Of course, I do understand the sensibilities of just picking him, and dropping someone who doesn't necessarily deserve to be dropped. And that's where India have a bit of an issue at the minute, because when you look at the first XI, you look at the batting lineup, there's not really anyone who you'd say, well, they deserve to be dropped on performances. You could argue that, well, Sooryavanshi has outperformed them all in the IPL, which he did. Let's face it, his stats don't lie. He hit more sixes than Chris Gayle. He scored more runs at a better rate than anybody. So, I would build an attack, a batting line-up around him. And yes, someone will miss out and it will be tough on them on the back of winning world trophies and everything like that and then potentially missing out. But if you can find a way of getting him in and exposing him, he can hit the best b
3 months ago
Earlier in the summer, there was much excitement at Barcelona after the club announced the big-money signing of Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United.
The Englishman is set to join the Catalans for a fee of around €70 million, which is quite a significant investment given the club's economic situation.
However, that excitement is slowly turning into worry for Barcelona fans as Gordon hasn't exactly performed well for England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far.
In light of his poor performances in the World Cup, popular English football pundit Graeme Souness has criticised Barcelona for making such a big investment in the Newcastle star.
"Barcelona will have watched their new £70m winger Anthony Gordon in England's opening group games and wondered what they have bought," Souness said.
The Englishman is set to join the Catalans for a fee of around €70 million, which is quite a significant investment given the club's economic situation.
However, that excitement is slowly turning into worry for Barcelona fans as Gordon hasn't exactly performed well for England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far.
In light of his poor performances in the World Cup, popular English football pundit Graeme Souness has criticised Barcelona for making such a big investment in the Newcastle star.
"Barcelona will have watched their new £70m winger Anthony Gordon in England's opening group games and wondered what they have bought," Souness said.
3 months ago
Joe Root's remarkable achievements with the bat continued at The Oval, but England's crushing defeat to New Zealand also saw the former captain add another unwanted entry to his record book.
Having recently crossed 14,000 Test runs and become the first batter to score 2,000 Test runs against New Zealand, Root now finds himself level with former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming for the second-most defeats as a Test skipper. England's 253-run loss at The Oval was the 27th defeat of Root's captaincy career, leaving him behind only South Africa's Graeme Smith, who suffered 29 losses.
However, the numbers become even more striking when viewed through the lens of loss percentage. Root reached 27 defeats in just 66 Tests as captain, giving him a loss rate of 40.91 per cent. Fleming's 27 losses came across 80 Tests at a loss percentage of 33.75 per cent, while Smith captained South Africa in 109 Tests and finished with a much lower loss rate of 26.61 per cent despite holding the record for the most defeats.
Most matches lost as Test captain
Rank
Player
Teams
Career Span as Captain
Having recently crossed 14,000 Test runs and become the first batter to score 2,000 Test runs against New Zealand, Root now finds himself level with former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming for the second-most defeats as a Test skipper. England's 253-run loss at The Oval was the 27th defeat of Root's captaincy career, leaving him behind only South Africa's Graeme Smith, who suffered 29 losses.
However, the numbers become even more striking when viewed through the lens of loss percentage. Root reached 27 defeats in just 66 Tests as captain, giving him a loss rate of 40.91 per cent. Fleming's 27 losses came across 80 Tests at a loss percentage of 33.75 per cent, while Smith captained South Africa in 109 Tests and finished with a much lower loss rate of 26.61 per cent despite holding the record for the most defeats.
Most matches lost as Test captain
Rank
Player
Teams
Career Span as Captain
4 months ago
One clear goal for Manchester City this summer in the transfer market is to strengthen their midfield. City’s engine room does need more quality added to it given that certain signings haven’t panned out as hoped and Bernardo Silva has left the club. One player who has been heavily linked as a City transfer target is Newcastle United’s combative and silky midfielder Sandro Tonali. The Italian international is a proven Premier League performer and has the quality and pedigree to slot into Manchester City’s midfield. A new report indicates that Tonali’s preferred option is a move to the Etihad if he cannot return to Italy. So City could be in the box seat to sign Sandro Tonali.
Graeme Bailey has provided another update on the situation surrounding Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali for TeamTalk. Bailey reports that Tonali prefers a move back to Italy with former club AC Milan his ideal destination. But that move is considered unlikely due to Newcastle’s asking price to sell the Italian international. Furthermore, Bailey reports that Tonali’s camp explained the situation to clubs interested in signing Tonali. Manchester City, **** nal, Manchester United, Chelsea and Tottenham were made aware of Tonali’s wish. Despite this, City have retained their interest in signing Tonali while other clubs, excluding Tottenham, have seemingly cooled their interest in moving for him.
Graeme Bailey reports that Sandro Tonali is giving serious thought to a move to Manchester City. Furthermore, Bailey reports that Tonali is impressed by the project that City have put forward to the Italian midfielder. Also, it is reported that Manchester City’s long-term plan for Tonali and the support structure available to Tonali’s family has seen him give serious thought to a move to the FA Cup and Carabao Cup winners. Lastly, Bailey reports that Manchester City aren’t put off by Newcastle United’s £100 million asking price for Sandro Tonali.
It would seem highly unlikely that Sandro Tonali will get his wish and move back to Italy. AC Milan or any other interested Serie A club is unlikely to have the financial power to meet Newcastle’s demands. It would seem that Tonali’s wish to return to Italy hasn’t put off Manchester City from moving for him. Instead, City have pulled out all of the stops to show Tonali what life could be like if he moved to the club.
On the pitch, there is a clear role for Sandro Tonali at Manchester City. City are desperate for elite midfielders. Tonali is exactly that. Also, doubts remain over Rodri’s long-term future at City. Tonali could come in to learn from Rodri for a year before taking his place. Also, Tonali could play with Rodri and Elliot Anderson, if Anderson signs for City, and form a lethal midfield trio.
Graeme Bailey has provided another update on the situation surrounding Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali for TeamTalk. Bailey reports that Tonali prefers a move back to Italy with former club AC Milan his ideal destination. But that move is considered unlikely due to Newcastle’s asking price to sell the Italian international. Furthermore, Bailey reports that Tonali’s camp explained the situation to clubs interested in signing Tonali. Manchester City, **** nal, Manchester United, Chelsea and Tottenham were made aware of Tonali’s wish. Despite this, City have retained their interest in signing Tonali while other clubs, excluding Tottenham, have seemingly cooled their interest in moving for him.
Graeme Bailey reports that Sandro Tonali is giving serious thought to a move to Manchester City. Furthermore, Bailey reports that Tonali is impressed by the project that City have put forward to the Italian midfielder. Also, it is reported that Manchester City’s long-term plan for Tonali and the support structure available to Tonali’s family has seen him give serious thought to a move to the FA Cup and Carabao Cup winners. Lastly, Bailey reports that Manchester City aren’t put off by Newcastle United’s £100 million asking price for Sandro Tonali.
It would seem highly unlikely that Sandro Tonali will get his wish and move back to Italy. AC Milan or any other interested Serie A club is unlikely to have the financial power to meet Newcastle’s demands. It would seem that Tonali’s wish to return to Italy hasn’t put off Manchester City from moving for him. Instead, City have pulled out all of the stops to show Tonali what life could be like if he moved to the club.
On the pitch, there is a clear role for Sandro Tonali at Manchester City. City are desperate for elite midfielders. Tonali is exactly that. Also, doubts remain over Rodri’s long-term future at City. Tonali could come in to learn from Rodri for a year before taking his place. Also, Tonali could play with Rodri and Elliot Anderson, if Anderson signs for City, and form a lethal midfield trio.
4 months ago
Former England spinner Graeme Swann heaped praise on Ishan Kishan after the wicketkeeper-batter's sensational century powered India to a dominant 170-run win over Afghanistan in the second ODI in Lucknow, sealing the three-match series with a game to spare.
Kishan played a stunning knock of 125 from just 79 ******* , striking 14 boundaries and seven sixes. His innings formed the backbone of a massive 224-run third-wicket stand with India captain Shubman Gill, who produced a brilliant 154. Their partnership helped India amass 402 before restricting Afghanistan to 232.
Speaking on JioStar, Swann admired Kishan's team-first attitude and his ability to fit seamlessly into any role required by the side.
“He is the sort of player who will do whatever job you ask of him without any complaints. The fact that he’s come back into the team and looks like he’s never been away is remarkable,” Swann said.
The former England spinner also highlighted the way Kishan paced his innings before shifting gears dramatically. According to Swann, the left-hander showed excellent game awareness rather than relying on reckless strokeplay.
“He came to the crease and was circumspect for his first fifty, but then took just 19 deliveries to go from 50 to 100, which is ridiculous. It wasn’t crazy hitting or slogging either. He was simply being sensible, picking his spots on the leg side, forcing the bowlers to change their lines, and then playing those gorgeous lofted extra-cover drives.”
Swann felt Kishan's transformation reflected the hard work he has put into improving specific areas of his batting.
“It’s a sign of sheer class. That shot, wide of long-off, is something he’s worked on over the last two years. It was an area where bowlers could shut him down, but he went away, worked on it, and turned it into a strength, which is brilliant,” he added.
Kishan brought up his hundred in only 71 deliveries and ensured India's momentum never slowed. Alongside Gill, he dismantled Afghanistan's bowling attack and set up one of India's biggest ODI totals in recent years.
India then completed a comprehensive victory as Arshdeep Singh and Gurnoor Brar picked up three wickets each. Rahmat Shah fought hard with 79, but Afghanistan were eventually bowled out for 232, handing India an unbeatable 2-0 lead ahead of the final ODI in Chennai.
Kishan played a stunning knock of 125 from just 79 ******* , striking 14 boundaries and seven sixes. His innings formed the backbone of a massive 224-run third-wicket stand with India captain Shubman Gill, who produced a brilliant 154. Their partnership helped India amass 402 before restricting Afghanistan to 232.
Speaking on JioStar, Swann admired Kishan's team-first attitude and his ability to fit seamlessly into any role required by the side.
“He is the sort of player who will do whatever job you ask of him without any complaints. The fact that he’s come back into the team and looks like he’s never been away is remarkable,” Swann said.
The former England spinner also highlighted the way Kishan paced his innings before shifting gears dramatically. According to Swann, the left-hander showed excellent game awareness rather than relying on reckless strokeplay.
“He came to the crease and was circumspect for his first fifty, but then took just 19 deliveries to go from 50 to 100, which is ridiculous. It wasn’t crazy hitting or slogging either. He was simply being sensible, picking his spots on the leg side, forcing the bowlers to change their lines, and then playing those gorgeous lofted extra-cover drives.”
Swann felt Kishan's transformation reflected the hard work he has put into improving specific areas of his batting.
“It’s a sign of sheer class. That shot, wide of long-off, is something he’s worked on over the last two years. It was an area where bowlers could shut him down, but he went away, worked on it, and turned it into a strength, which is brilliant,” he added.
Kishan brought up his hundred in only 71 deliveries and ensured India's momentum never slowed. Alongside Gill, he dismantled Afghanistan's bowling attack and set up one of India's biggest ODI totals in recent years.
India then completed a comprehensive victory as Arshdeep Singh and Gurnoor Brar picked up three wickets each. Rahmat Shah fought hard with 79, but Afghanistan were eventually bowled out for 232, handing India an unbeatable 2-0 lead ahead of the final ODI in Chennai.
