All posts by h716a5.icu

South Africa completed their first series sweep in Asia since 2008

Firdose Moonda31-Oct-2024South Africa completed their first series win in the subcontinent in a decade, their first series sweep in Asia since 2008 and are up to fourth place on the World Test Championship (WTC) points table. An innings-and-273-run victory, their largest of all time, over Bangladesh in Chattogram means South Africa need to win at least three of their four home Tests this summer to maintain a chance to qualify for the WTC final.It was as complete a performance as South Africa could have hoped for with three centuries in the batting line-up and wickets for both seamers and spinners. They claimed 16 on the third day, with five-fors for both their champion seamer Kagiso Rabada and first-choice left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj. Spin-bowling allrounder Senuran Muthusamy also earned a career-best with a second-innings 4 for 45.For Bangladesh, batting remains a major concern. On a fairly placid pitch, they were on the brink at 48 for 8 in their first innings before Mominul Haque and Taijul Islam combined for a 103-run stand for the ninth-wicket. That was Bangladesh’s third-highest partnership against South Africa for any wicket. Mominul was dismissed 18 short of a 14th Test century. There were no other scores above 30 in the first innings and none higher than Hasan Mahmud’s 38 in the second innings, where they also had no partnerships higher than 37. Shot selection was a particular concern, especially in picking up the right lengths to drive and knowing when to attack the spinners.ESPNcricinfo LtdBangladesh’s captain Najmul Hossain Shanto is a case in point. In the first innings, he was in two minds against a Rabada delivery that spat up off the surface. Shanto was unsure whether to drive or block and got an edge through to Kyle Verreynne. Four balls later, Mushfiqur Rahim handed the easiest of catches to Tony de Zorzi at square leg off Dane Paterson and was dismissed for a duck.In the over after that, Rabada took two wickets in three balls: first Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who followed a ball that moved away and was caught behind, and then the debutant Mahidul Islam, who shouldered arms to a delivery that struck him on the knee roll. That gave Rabada his second five-for in as many Tests, and second in the subcontinent.Mominul took the fight to South Africa and scored ten runs off two deliveries from Maharaj to take Bangladesh over 50 and avoid being dismissed for one of their three lowest totals in Test cricket. But South Africa sensed an opportunity to run through them and appealed for almost anything. Maharaj reviewed two lbw shouts against Taijul.The first was clipping leg but upheld on umpire’s call and, on the second the impact was outside off. He finally had a decision go his way when Langton Rusere gave Mominul out when he missed a sweep but Mominul reviewed immediately and UltraEdge showed an under-edge. Mominul was on 37 at the time. He brought up fifty of the 76th ball he faced off Maharaj and South Africa thought they had him later in the over when he seemed to be caught at leg slip. Replays showed the ball came off the flap of his front pad.Rabada was brought back for a burst before lunch and immediately thought he had Mominul snaffled down the leg side but had overstepped. If South Africa have a concern after this match, it’s the number of no-balls they bowled. Rabada sent down nine and Paterson, four.Senuran Muthusamy took career-best figures of 4 for 45 in the second innings•AFP/Getty ImagesMuthusamy was given the ball for the first time five minutes before lunch and resumed after the break. He broke Mominul’s resistance with a ball that turned back into him and struck him on the front pad. Mominul was given out lbw and reviewed but the ball appeared to rush past the outside edge without making contact and the on-field decision was upheld. Maharaj ended the innings when Nahid Rana handed a catch back to him to give him a return of 2 for 57. At that point, South Africa opted not to bat again and enforced the follow-on with a view to wrapping things up quickly.Bangladesh’s second dig did not go that much better. Shadman Islam was dropped off Wiaan Mulder in the second over but four overs later, he nicked Paterson from a delivery that angled in. Rabada could have had Zakir Hasan in the next over but Aiden Markram, at second slip, dived across first slip and neither could complete the catch. Instead, it was Muthusamy who had his moment to shine.His fifth ball turned away from Mahmudul Hasan Joy and took the edge, where Markram completed a good low catch at slip. Three balls later, Mominul picked out Muthusamy on the leg-side boundary and Maharaj could not believe his luck. And then, Muthusamy also struck gold with the last ball before tea when Zakir advanced on him, missed and was stumped. Bangladesh went to tea at 43 for 4.Mushfiqur’s miserable match ended when he was out lbw off Muthusamy, confirmed on South Africa’s review, and Maharaj removed Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul as they both tried to manufacture run-scoring opportunities with big shots. As the light faded and the stand between Mahmud and Mahidul grew, South Africa may have thought they’d have to return to finish the job on the fourth morning.But Mahidul, on debut, eventually gave it away. He was tempted by one of Maharaj’s tossed-up balls and hit it to Rabada at long-off. Maharaj and Muthusamy were in a race to see who would get five and it was Maharaj who won as Nahid popped a catch to David Bedingham at silly mid-off to end the match inside three days.

Crystal Palace now hold a strong interest in signing a “talented” goal-scoring defender, and they could be set to battle a fellow UEFA Conference League club for his signature, according to a report.

Palace demoted to Conference League after unsuccessful appeal

It should be a time of celebration for Palace, having recently won the Community Shield for the first time, but UEFA’s recent verdict has certainly dampened the mood somewhat, and a strong statement has been issued in response.

“It appears that certain clubs, organisations and individuals have a unique privilege and power.

“This growing and unhealthy influence has shattered the hopes and dreams of Crystal Palace supporters, and does not bode well for aspirational teams all over Europe competing to progress when rules and sanctions are unevenly applied in the most flagrant way.”

Crystal Palace may sign "extraordinary" £30m+ UCL player in Eze swap deal

The Eagles have now set their sights on a Champions League player.

ByDominic Lund Aug 13, 2025

Not only is being denied the right to compete in the Europa League a blow for the supporters, who would have been dreaming about trips to some of Europe’s biggest clubs, but it could also have an impact on the Eagles’ summer transfer plans.

Playing in the more prestigious Europa League is a more attractive proposition for potential new signings, and Oliver Glasner’s side may need to bring in a few new arrivals before the end of the month, given the doubts over Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi’s futures.

Should Eze and their captain move on, it will be vital for Crystal Palace to bring in a new attacking midfielder and centre-back, but they are also keen to bolster their options at right-back.

That is according to a report from Italy, which states Crystal Palace now hold strong interest in signing Cagliari defender Nadir Zortea, but there may be competition for his signature, with Fiorentina also keen.

Should the Italian club successfully navigate their Conference League play-off match, they could be one of the Eagles’ opponents next season, and they are also set to do battle over the signature of Zortea, with a deal potentially set to amount to at least €10m (£9m).

"Talented" Zortea could be solid Munoz alternative

Daniel Munoz was a vital player for Glasner last season, with the right-back proving himself as a real threat on the front foot by picking up four goals and six assists in the Premier League.

As Palace are set to embark on a European campaign, they will need to strengthen their squad depth, and they may want to bring in a new right-back in a similar mould to Munoz, with the Cagliari defender fitting the bill.

Much like the 29-year-old, Zortea is impressive going forward, and displayed a keen eye for goal in the Serie A last season, finding the back of the net six times in 35 outings.

Having also been lauded as “talented” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, the Italian could be the ideal option to come in and provide competition for Munoz’s starting spot.

Former Manchester United star Jesse Lingard showed off his trademark dance moves after a pinpoint assist as FC Seoul got their AFC Champions League campaign underway. The English midfielder was the livewire in attack in a fiery 1-1 draw against Machida Zelvia at the Machida Gion Stadium as Seoul made their comeback into Champions League Elite after five years.

Assist with a sprinkle of flair

The deadlock was finally broken in the 59th minute when Lingard burst down the right flank, shaking off his marker before drilling in a clever low cross. Teammate Marko Duganddzic muscled past his defender and slotted home, sending the travelling Seoul fans wild. But the roar of the crowd wasn’t just for the goal; it was Lingard’s celebratory dance that stole the spotlight. With a beaming smile, the 32-year-old busted out his signature moves, a sight that instantly went viral across social media. 

AdvertisementWatch Lingard danceNot just a dancer – a game changer

While the dance moves get the cameras flashing, it’s Lingard’s football that is doing the talking. July was nothing short of spectacular for the ex-England star. Two goals in four matches, two Man of the Match awards, and a coveted Player of the Week gong, Lingard’s name was suddenly everywhere. His blistering form was capped off with the ultimate accolade: Player of the Month, his first such award in Seoul colours.  

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

AFPTHE BIGGER PICTURE

The schedule doesn’t get any lighter for Lingard and his teammates. With the Asian Champions League group stage now underway, the focus quickly swings back to domestic duties. Next Sunday, Lingard will once again pull on the red and black of FC Seoul as they return to K League action against Gwangju.  

Ollie Pope will keep wicket as tourists deal with fallout from Jordan Cox injury

Vithushan Ehantharajah25-Nov-2024Jacob Bethell will make his Test debut for England at No. 3 against New Zealand in the first Test at Hagley Oval on Thursday, despite never having fulfilled the role in first-class cricket.As part of a reshuffled batting line-up following Jordan Cox’s broken thumb – who was initially set to debut with Jamie Smith missing the tour on paternity leave – the Warwickshire middle order batter will come in at first-drop to allow Ollie Pope to keep wicket with a more withdrawn role at six. Joe Root will remain at No.4 for his 150th cap.The selection of Bethell in a position of such responsibility is a reflection of the selectors’ regard for his talent. He made his T20I and ODI debuts against Australia at the end of the home summer, and impressed out in the Caribbean with three half-centuries across both formats on that white ball tour. He subsequently earned a maiden IPL gig with a £245,000 deal with Royal Challengers Bangalore on Monday.England XI for first Test against New Zealand•ESPNcricinfo LtdNevertheless, the 21-year-old remains an unknown quantity in first-class cricket. He averages 25.44 from 30 innings, with just five half-centuries, none of which have come higher than No. 5. A career-best score of 93 came against Nottinghamshire in April. He will be come the first specialist batter to play Test cricket for England without a first-class century since Mike Gatting in 1978.Bethell only arrived in New Zealand on Sunday after time off at home following the West Indies series. As a result, he did not play any part in the two-day tour match against the New Zealand Prime Minister’s XI.In a year of left-field selections from England, this might rank as one on the outer reaches of that spectrum. Particularly given Root, with his wealth of experience, could have performed the role. While Ben Stokes has been keen to allow England’s leading Test run-scorer the comfort of batting No. 4 throughout his tenure as captain, it is worth noting Root’s 262 against Pakistan last month came at three.Speaking on Tuesday, Root revealed he had not been approached about batting three, but backed Bethell to take this fast-tracked promotion in his stride. Despite having never played together, the pair know each other well as their fathers played together at Sheffield Collegiate Cricket Club.”I love the look of him as a player,” said Root. “I’ve known Jacob and his family a long time and it’s been lovely to watch him grow up as a player coming through in Barbados then at Warwickshire. What he’s done in the white-ball stuff more recently has been exceptional.”He’s full of confidence, he’s got great ability and a really well rounded game. He’s a mature head on young shoulders and I think he has all the components to set him up nicely to be successful in this format and at this level. I’m sure he’ll enjoy every aspect of the week, I’m really looking forward to watching him do his stuff.”If you look at the way he sets up I think it suits that (batting at three), especially here with the little bit of extra bounce and carry. He plays very well square of the wicket and if he gets in on a wicket like that he could be very destructive. It’s a really exciting opportunity and prospect for us to see a young player coming in hopefully doing something really special at the start of his career.”This particular gamble has been forced, to a point. Cox’s injury in the nets on Sunday morning ahead of play in Queenstown threw their initial plans into disarray. There has been a further complication as Durham’s Ollie Robinson – due to be confirmed as the injury replacement – is currently getting his passport renewed. However it was unlikely he would have featured in the opening Test given the travel involved and the time needed to overcome jet lag.Despite a green seamer expected at Hagley Oval, England have chosen to persist with Shoaib Bashir as their spinner, with Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse the out-and-out seamers, and Stokes as the all-round option.England XI for first Test: 1 ⁠Zak Crawley, 2⁠ ⁠Ben Duckett, 3⁠ ⁠Jacob Bethell, 4⁠ ⁠Joe Root, 5 ⁠Harry Brook, 6⁠ ⁠Ollie Pope (wk), 7⁠ ⁠Ben Stokes (capt), 8⁠ ⁠Chris Woakes, 9⁠ ⁠Gus Atkinson, 10⁠ ⁠Brydon Carse, 11⁠ ⁠Shoaib Bashir

Smith’s runs came off just 64 balls as he became the joint-leading century-maker in the BBL before Sean Abbott bagged four wickets

AAP11-Jan-2025Steven Smith sent an emphatic reminder of his T20 worth, smashing a masterful 121 not out to hit the Sydney Sixers to a 14-run win over Perth Scorchers.In one of the best BBL innings, Smith launched an astonishing seven sixes in front of 31,165 fans at the SCG on Saturday afternoon in a 64-ball innings for the ages as the Sixers cantered to 220 for 3 – their highest total in the competition.Related

How Mitch Owen became Hobart Hurricanes' century-making opener

Smith's assist in Connolly's selection, ten years on from childhood photo

Tim David smashes Thunder as Hurricanes extend streak

Sean Abbott then celebrated his call-up to the Australian Test squad for Sri Lanka with 4 for 43, keeping Sixers second on the ladder and with one foot in the finals.And while Scorchers provided some fireworks of their own, this was a day for Smith.The century marked his third in the BBL, drawing him level with Ben McDermott for the most in the tournament’s history. Smith has played 32 matches for his three tons, compared with McDermott’s 100 games.Globally, Smith has been something of a forgotten star in T20 cricket, compared with his status as Australia’s best Test batter since Sir Donald Bradman with a return to runs this summer.The 35-year-old has not played a T20I for Australia since last February, and was overlooked for the World Cup squad last year. He has also been brushed in the past four IPL auctions, featuring only in the Major League Cricket last year of all overseas franchise leagues.Sean Abbott played a key role with the ball•Getty ImagesBut in the BBL Smith continues to prove his worth, with this his third century in his past seven games. And it may have been his best yet. Smith’s last 95 runs came off 40 balls, after Sixers were particularly patient early and 24 for 1 after five overs.Smith regularly targeted the short boundary at the SCG, while also cutting behind point with glee when Scorchers went too wide outside off to try to counteract him.Two of his sixes came off switch-hits to the short rope, and another was a crisp flick off his pads from Jhye Richardson that sailed into the Bill O’Reilly Stand.Still, Smith’s shot of the day went to the long boundary, picking up a full and wide ball from AJ Tye and hitting it inside out over backward point for six.Tye copped the brunt of the damage for Scorchers, going for 0 for 62 from his four overs while also being taken to by Ben Dwarshuis.Richardson also went for 0 for 51 from his four overs, as Smith and Moises Henriques took him for 24 from the first over of the power surge during a 113-run partnership.This was a day when everything Smith touch turned to gold, including being caught in the deep in the last over before replays fielder Nick Hobson had put a foot on the rope.In reply, Scorchers faced an uphill battle from the moment Abbott took back-to-back wickets in the fourth over. Ashton Turner hit 66 from 32 balls to give the Scorchers a late hope, but 23 from the final over proved too much as they stayed fifth on the ladder.

Ex-Barcelona president Sandro Rosell has vehemently defended the club in the Negreira case, asserting former refereeing chiefs had no influence over the club's results due to their biases favoured Real Madrid. With Rosell challenging critics to review matches and Real Madrid escalating complaints to FIFA, Spanish football faces a high-stakes debate over integrity, influence and accountability.

Sandro Rosell’s defence in the Negreira case

Rosell appeared before the judge last week in the Negreira case, which is investigating over €7 million allegedly paid by Barcelona to former referees’ chief Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira between 2001 and 2018. Audio recordings broadcast on capture Rosell’s assertive defence: he stressed that Negreira “had zero weight” in the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) and that the only influential figure historically was the CTA president, who “has always been a Real Madrid fan.”

Rosell challenged critics to watch the matches from the period under investigation: "Yes, it's very easy. Let's watch all the matches and have five referee experts come and tell us in which match the referee helped us. Let them come. Here they can't say I filed the case due to lack of evidence. Here the evidence is in favour of the accused. It's the other way around."

During the latest hearing, former presidents Josep Bartomeu and Rosell, along with Negreira’s son, also clarified that payments made between 2013 and 2018 were for sports and refereeing advisory reports, not to influence results. The court heard that services were provided for both the first team and reserves, and that Enriquez Negreira’s departure from the Federation was unrelated to his son’s employment at Barca.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportMadrid's official complaint to FIFA

Madrid’s recently submitted complaint focuses on refereeing inconsistencies, citing specific incidents such as Arda Guler’s disallowed goal, Kylian Mbappe's marginal offsides, and Dean Huijsen’s red card against Real Sociedad. Club president Florentino Perez insists on international scrutiny, arguing that domestic refereeing lacks credibility. When asked about the complaint, coach Xabi Alonso emphasised that defending the club’s interests is legitimate but cautioned against a one-track focus on refereeing.

The complaint also references the Negreira case, contending that the scandal continues to cast a shadow over Spanish officiating, as many referees active today came through the system during Negreira’s tenure.

Rosell critiques Madrid’s actions

The former Barca president did not shy away from criticising Madrid’s recent refereeing complaints, pointing to their escalation to FIFA.

"A gentleman's club should have accepted this and not dragged it out for life as they are trying to do to cover up other things," he said. "Like now, for example, after four league games, they have already gone to complain to FIFA about the refereeing. Where is Mr. Negreira now?"

Rosell further took shots at Los Blancos and emphasised that sometimes you have to accept your defeat.

"Here they can say that we're closing the case because the evidence supports the accused… and that's it. Let's all sit down and watch the games again. I'd love to. Maybe some people here wouldn't like to watch it again. I'm sorry. But sometimes you don't win. Sometimes you lose, and you have to accept that."

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

AFPWill there be an official review of the Spanish referee committee?

Barcelona now awaits the court’s judgment in the Negreira case, which will determine the fate of former presidents Rosell and Bartomeu. Meanwhile, Madrid are seeking FIFA scrutiny over refereeing inconsistencies.

The unfolding situation raises a critical question: can there be an official review of the Spanish Referee Committee (CTA)? While the court addresses the criminal and financial aspects of the case, FIFA or the Royal Spanish Football Federation could potentially review refereeing standards, procedures, and oversight to ensure fairness and transparency in La Liga. This period of scrutiny represents a pivotal moment for Spanish football, as both legal and regulatory outcomes could reshape the governance of officiating for years to come.

The summer transfer window has been dominated by Newcastle United’s pursuit of a new number nine.

VIP Tickets

Secure your matchday experience with Seat Unique.

See at Seat Unique

The Magpies began the season without a recognised centre-forward, and while their performance away at Aston Villa showed flashes of quality, the lack of a natural striker proved costly in front of goal.

At the heart of the situation is Alexander Isak.

The Swedish international has made it clear that he has no intention of reintegrating with Eddie Howe’s squad. Despite being under contract, Isak is not training with the first-team and reiterated in a social media post that broken promises had left both sides with no option but to seek change.

His stance has left Newcastle in a difficult position: they will not sanction his dream move to Liverpool until a replacement has been secured.

That urgency is compounded by the fact that several of their targets have already slipped away.

Benjamin Šeško joined Manchester United, while Wolves are refusing to entertain offers for Jørgen Strand Larsen.

Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson remains a name of interest, but Aston Villa and Bayern Munich are also interested, further complicating matters.

Newcastle’s recruitment team has been forced to weigh their options carefully.

With four competitions to compete in this season, they cannot afford to gamble on an unproven forward.

Instead, they are searching for a player who can score consistently at Premier League level and immediately shoulder the pressure of leading the line.

England international emerges on Newcastle's radar

According to Craig Hope of the Daily Mail, Newcastle “really like” Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins.

The England international has established himself as one of the division’s most reliable strikers, scoring 16 times in 38 appearances in the Premier League last season.

Villa manager Unai Emery is desperate to keep hold of his talisman, placing a £60m valuation on the 29-year-old, but Newcastle see him as an ideal solution to their striker dilemma.

Watkins is not the only forward on their radar.

Brentford’s Yoane Wissa has pushed for a move, even going as far as to remove references to the Bees from his social media accounts before reluctantly returning to training.

The Congolese forward is fresh off the best season of his career, scoring 19 goals in 35 appearances.

However, Brentford’s asking price of £60m, coupled with the fact that Wissa will turn 29 in September and could miss a portion of the 2026 season due to AFCON, makes him a less attractive prospect for Newcastle.

Strand Larsen, meanwhile, also carries a similar price tag.

Wolves value him at around £60m, which reflects both his strong debut campaign of 14 Premier League goals and his importance following the departure of Matheus Cunha to Manchester United.

But with Wolves unwilling to sell, Newcastle may be forced to move on quickly rather than get caught in another prolonged negotiation.

When set against these options, Watkins’ appeal becomes clear.

He is also homegrown, experienced at international level, and has a track record of maintaining fitness and availability – a crucial factor given how many fixtures Newcastle may play this season.

Why Newcastle should sign Ollie Watkins

The numbers help illustrate why Newcastle rate Watkins so highly compared to Wissa and Strand Larsen.

Each enjoyed a strong 2024/25 campaign, but Watkins edges the contest in the areas that matter most to Eddie Howe’s side.

Premier League 2024/25

Ollie Watkins

Yoane Wissa

Jorgen Strand Larsen

Goals

16

19

14

Assists

8

4

4

Shots

82

90

54

Pass Completion Rate

72.4%

76.5%

64.6%

Shot Creating Actions

53

69

42

Source: FBref

According to FBref, Watkins registered 24 goal involvements across 38 appearances – a marginal advantage over Wissa (23 in 35) but a clear lead over Strand Larsen (18 in 35). This demonstrates his ability to finish chances, something Newcastle lacked in their draw at Villa Park.

Looking deeper, Watkins’ game reflects a balance of off-the-ball movement and link-up play.

His progressive carries per 90 (1.90) are just ahead of Wissa (1.85) and far superior to Strand Larsen (0.59), underlining his ability to drive the ball forward and stretch defences.

While he lags behind Wissa in progressive passing distance (33.7 per 90 compared to 49.9), he makes up for it with a more well-rounded contribution in and around the penalty area.

The statistics also highlight Watkins’ reliability in front of goal.

His shot-on-target percentage (43.9%) is competitive with Wissa (45.6%) and Strand Larsen (61.1%), but what stands out is his volume: Watkins averaged 1.25 shots on target per 90, ahead of Larsen’s 1.15.

Given Newcastle’s need for a striker who will consistently test goalkeepers, Watkins’ steady output is a strong selling point.

There are other factors working in his favour.

Unlike Wissa, Watkins does not face the prospect of missing time due to AFCON commitments, and unlike Strand Larsen, he does not represent a gamble on a player with just one season in English football.

Instead, he offers Newcastle a forward who has proven he can sustain a high level of performance in one of the league’s most tactically demanding systems under Emery.

Of course, Watkins is not flawless.

His take-on success rate (24.4%) lags behind both Wissa (30.6%) and Strand Larsen (40.0%), suggesting he is less effective when asked to beat defenders one-on-one.

But Newcastle’s system under Howe rarely relies on individual dribbling in advanced positions. Instead, it values runs in behind, pressing from the front, and efficient finishing – all of which Watkins excels at.

"Sack him" – Alan Shearer reacts to "ridiculous" Isak and Newcastle update

The Magpies legend hasn’t held back.

2 ByCharlie Smith Aug 21, 2025

Ultimately, the comparison makes the logic behind Newcastle’s interest clear. At £60m, he is an expensive option, yet for a club determined to make a home for themselves in Europe, it may prove the most reliable investment.

Readers like you help support FootballFanCast. When you make a purchase using links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Read More.

Rahane’s vast experience, both as captain and player, made him an ideal candidate, says franchise CEO

Nagraj Gollapudi12-Mar-20251:44

Rahane: KKR have to start from scratch this year

Ajinkya Rahane’s vast experience and “maturity” in handling an “intense” tournament such as the IPL made him the automatic choice to lead defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), franchise CEO Venky Mysore has said.Rahane was one of the contenders for the captaincy alongside Venkatesh Iyer, the India and Madhya Pradesh allrounder. Venkatesh was released after the 2024 season but was bought back by KKR in the auction for INR 23.75 crore (US$2.3 million approx.). While Venkatesh recently said he was ready to take on the captaincy, if offered, KKR eventually picked Rahane for the job, with Venkatesh named his deputy.”IPL is quite an intense tournament,” Mysore told ESPNcricinfo. “Clearly, we think very well of Venkatesh Iyer but, at the same time, it [captaincy] is taxing on a youngster. We have seen lots of people having lots of challenges with it as they go forward. It takes a very steady hand, takes a lot of maturity and experience, which we felt Ajinkya brings with him.”Related

'Nothing can beat experience' – Rahane keen to learn from T20 heavyweight Bravo at KKR

Ajinkya Rahane to lead Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025

KKR on breaking the bank for Venkatesh – 'All about keeping our core'

Shreyas Iyer had captained KKR to the title in IPl 2024, but KKR could not retain him after he opted to head back into the auction, where he was bought by Punjab Kings. Incidentally, Rahane, who was the first player to come up on the second day of the auction last November, had gone unsold at the first time of calling. KKR eventually got Rahane for his base price of INR 1.5 crore ($180,000 approx.) at the end of the auction when franchises got an opportunity to call back unsold players of their choice.This is Rahane’s second stint with KKR, having played seven matches for them in IPL 2022, when they finished seventh. Rahane has turned out for six franchises in the IPL and is among a select group of players to have been part of the IPL from its inception in 2008. Rahane has some experience captaining India (with eight wins in 11 games across formats), is among the most successful active captains in domestic cricket, and has led in 25 matches across two IPL franchises: once at Rising Pune Supergiant and the rest at Rajasthan Royals.Mysore felt such a wealth of experience could only be beneficial for KKR. “He has played 185 IPL games, 200 [195] international games across formats,” Mysore said. “He has led India, led Mumbai in domestic, he’s led in IPL. And he has played from season one of IPL. All that is massive. There should be no surprise at all [on appointing Rahane as captain].Ajinkya Rahane was appointed the new KKR captain, while Venkatesh Iyer will be his deputy•Kolkata Knight Riders”Captaincy cannot be underestimated. This is going to be my 15th season, so I have seen a lot. It is not only about what you do on the field. There’s a lot of [other] stuff when it comes to IPL, including dealing with media, and there will be expectation in terms of the captain. At the same time, it is a new cycle, there is diversity in the team; if you have to be a successful captain you have to invest in building relationships with everybody so that you know how to get the best out of everyone.”And then there’s preparatory stuff in terms of camps, bowlers’ meetings, batters’ meetings, interaction with coaches – that’s a lot to take in. From that perspective, we are lucky we have got Ajinkya, who will be terrific for us. Not only as a captain, of which there’s no doubt, but also as a batsman. He has scored tons of runs.”Venkatesh Iyer is ‘captaincy material’Mysore also said that that Venkatesh would continue to be part of the leadership group and that he had the potential to grow into a future captain. “We have been very, very impressed with the leadership qualities that he has shown,” Mysore said. “He’s a franchise player and what he has shown in terms of how he participates, and the respect that others have around him, and the energy he brings [to the dressing room]… so he definitely has got massive potential. He’s one for the future for us for sure. He clearly is captaincy material.”The move to appoint Venkatesh as the vice-captain, Mysore said, would also allow him to learn from Rahane. “Knowing Ajinkya, he will take him [Venkatesh] under his wing and mentor him on the captaincy side of things. So, in a way, I expect they will be kind of joined at the hip and working very closely together.”

Jose Mourinho aimed a playful jibe at Manchester City when being quizzed on the 74 charges that are now hanging over Chelsea. The Portuguese coach, who has taken in two spells as Blues boss, finds himself back at Stamford Bridge for a Champions League fixture. The ‘Special One’ has returned to his homeland as the new boss at Benfica, with the 62-year-old having lost none of his ability to entertain when speaking to the media.

Ex-Chelsea boss Mourinho back at Stamford Bridge

The enigmatic tactician is famed for generating headlines with his behaviour on the touchline and in the press room, with Mourinho having no issue with being centre of attention. He is that again at present as an emotional reunion with a former club – one where he previously delivered three Premier League title triumphs – is taken in.

Chelsea have been back in trophy-winning mode of late, savouring Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup triumphs in 2024-25. They have, however, also been stung with 74 charges by the Football Association relating to alleged breaches of regulations concerning dealings with football agents, intermediaries and third party investment in players. Those charges cover a 13-year period from 2009 to 2022, although most relate to the 2010-11 and 2015-16 campaigns – with Mourinho’s last stint with the Blues coming to a close in December 2015.

AdvertisementGettyCharges hanging over Chelsea & Man City

Chelsea are not the only Premier League side to have fallen under a monetary microscope, with City still waiting to discover their fate in a Financial Fair Play (FFP) saga that involves at least 115 historical charges dating back to 2009. They have always maintained their innocence, but various punishments have been speculated on, ranging from points deductions to expulsion from the English top-flight.

Asked about Chelsea’s supposed misdemeanours ahead of a European fixture in west London, Mourinho quipped back with: “Not Man City? I've no idea. I've no idea about it. I've no idea what the charges are, I will try to understand.”

Mourinho will always be a blue & is a fan of Maresca

The outspoken Portuguese added on his strong professional ties to upcoming opponents: “Of course I will always be a blue. I'm part of their history and they are part of mine. I helped them to become a bigger Chelsea and they helped me to become a bigger Jose. When I say I'm not a blue, I'm talking about the job I have to do. There are not many clubs that do these pictures. There is a fear in many clubs about what happened in the past. Sometimes it looks like they want to delete people who made history in the clubs. This shows Chelsea are a big club.”

Mourinho will be locking tactical horns with Enzo Maresca, a man he considers to have done a fine job since inheriting the reins at Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2024. He said of the Italian coach, who was one of Pep Guardiola’s assistants at Manchester City before heading out on his own again and guiding Leicester to the Championship title in 2024: “Honestly, I don't know the model. I never studied their model. There was a set period where myself, from the outside, was putting some question marks [on it] because it looked like Chelsea had lost their identity as a club. But what happened in the last season got things back on track. They gave trust to Enzo and gave his ideas. He's fitted in well with the philosophy of the club.”

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

Getty/GOALChelsea & Benfica form guide ahead of Champions League clash

Chelsea head into their meeting with Benfica having emerged victorious in just one of their last five games in all competitions. That solitary success came against League One side Lincoln in the Carabao Cup. Defeat was suffered against Harry Kane and Bayern Munich in their Champions League opener, before going down in domestic clashes with Manchester United and Brighton.

Benfica are unbeaten in their opening three games under Mourinho, picking up seven points in the Portuguese top tier, with their iconic boss returning to where it all began for him as a manager back in 2000.

Manchester United are in the market for late deals and could be set to earn some much needed capital to invest into their squad by sanctioning a key departure, according to reports.

Manchester United look for Ruben Amorim turnaround

To put it bluntly, Ruben Amorim hasn’t endured the tenure he would’ve liked at Old Trafford so far and his misfortune was only compounded further courtesy of a disastrous EFL Cup exit to Grimsby Town in midweek.

Losing out on penalties, the Red Devils boss has been left under pressure by club chiefs, with reports emerging that Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner could be in the frame to take over at Manchester United if results don’t improve.

Wayne Rooney has been critical of the former Sporting boss and claimed that the defeat at Blundell Park could prove to be a ‘breaking point’ for Amorim, citing his belief that he will find it difficult to turn around the malaise at the club.

He stated on his own show: “There’s a pressure at Manchester United which he will never have felt before. When you’re not winning games it can start to get to you, and it looks like it was a breaking point for him.

“There’s just a little bit too much rotation going on and players getting a little bit lost. When they lose the ball there’s massive gaps and spaces and it’s a carry on from last season. If it carries on like that, then unfortunately I don’t see how it moves forward.”

Man Utd now seriously considering late move for "wonderful" £32m midfielder

INEOS may not be done just yet…

2 ByDominic Lund Aug 28, 2025

Transfers could be pivotal to a turnaround, and Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher could be set for an Old Trafford move, albeit sales will be necesarry to pulling any further moves off.

If recent reports are to be believed, they could now be set to hasten that process.

Rasmus Hojlund set for Napoli medical

According to Il Mattino, Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund is set to undergo a medical at Napoli in a deal that will see the Red Devils inherit around £37.2 million once his initial loan move goes through.

If the Serie A champions secure qualification to next campaign’s Champions League, the agreement will convert into an obligation to buy, meaning Amorim’s men will receive the full amount quoted.

Across his time at Old Trafford, Hojlund has struck 26 times in 95 appearances in all competitions. Nevertheless, Benjamin Sesko’s arrival has pushed him down the pecking order and an exit has been all but ratified.

Alejandro Garnacho’s move to Chelsea for £40 million will offer Manchester United the chance to make another marquee signing, if they can push negotiations over the line at this late stage, though it remains to be seen when both deals officially go through.

Either way, Amorim is in need of help to bolster his squad and funds generated from Hojlund’s exit will go a long way to achieving that feat.