All posts by h79snht.top

Phoenix to play Southern Brave in eliminator; Oval Invincibles head straight to Lord’s final

ECB Media15-Aug-2024

Birmingham Phoenix will meet Southern Brave in The Hundred Eliminator at The Kia Oval on Saturday after a nine-wicket victory over Manchester Originals.Moeen Ali’s side came out on top in a 30-ball-per-side match at Edgbaston, earning themselves the point they needed after rain delayed the start.Phoenix chased down their target of 42 with ease, Jamie Smith depositing Fazalhaq Farooqi over the boundary twice in the first five balls to set the tone for the chase.After a quieter second five from Farooqi, Ben Duckett smashed Tom Aspinwall’s first ball for six and then hit three of his next four to the boundary as the rain teemed down in Birmingham, the umpires remaining unmoved, determined to see the game to a result.Smith (14) was caught on the cover boundary by Sikandar Raza off Scott Currie, but Duckett (22*) and Moeen (6*) knocked off the remaining seven runs required with eight balls to spare, the skipper securing the win with a six off Currie over fine-leg.Winning the toss and bowling first, Birmingham Phoenix struck early, Kiwi speedster Adam Milne removing Matthew Hurst from the second legal delivery of the match when the young Lancastrian skied a chance to Liam Livingstone at mid-on.Milne’s compatriot Tim Southee took the second set and was immediately smashed into the stands by Phil Salt. He was then sliced over short-third by Max Holden from the final ball of the powerplay as the Originals took their score to 15 for 1.At the halfway point of the innings, the Originals were 22 for 2, Salt (12) mistiming a cross-bat shot off Milne from the 15th ball of the innings to give Livingstone his second catch of the evening.Sean Abbott then accounted for Paul Walter (1), caught at deep cover, to make it 24 for 3. Holden (15) continued to swing hard, the left-hander top-edging Southee for another boundary, but his luck soon ran out when he failed to go over mid-off as Livingstone held onto a third catch.Chris Wood closed out the innings, conceding just three runs and taking the wicket of Raza, caught by Jacob Bethell at deep midwicket as Originals closed on 41 for 5, hitting just one six in their innings.Phoenix had just 42 to chase to earn a trip to South London and they did it with ease, ensuring Andrew Flintoff’s first year as Northern Superchargers Head Coach would end with a fourth-place finish.Meerkat Match Hero Milne, who took 2 for 8, said: “To come out of the shortened game and into The Hundred Eliminator is very good for us.”There was a little bit of swing and seam so it was nice to use that first up, but in these shortened games anything can happen, so [you] just mix it up.”Anytime it’s moving around off the straight it’s nice. There’s been lots said but as a bowler it’s nice to have a little bit going your way sometimes in these shorter formats, there can be flat wickets and not much movement, so it’s nice to see a bit of swing and seam occasionally.”

حرص الدكتور أشرف صبحي، وزير الشباب والرياضة، على تكريم لاعبات منتخب مصر لكرة اليد للشابات، وكرة السلة للشابات، بعد تحقيق إنجاز تاريخي بالتتويج ببطولتي إفريقيا لأول مرة في تاريخ اللعبتين.

جاء ذلك بحضور الكابتن خالد فتحي رئيس الاتحاد المصري لكرة اليد، والدكتور عمرو مصيلحي رئيس الاتحاد المصري لكرة السلة.

كما حضر من مجلس إدارة الاتحاد المصري لكرة السلة: طارق السعيد ومحمد فتحي نائبا الرئيس، والكابتن محمد إيهاب عضو مجلس إدارة ورئيس البعثة، والكابتن أيمن علي عضو مجلس إدارة، والكابتن نيرة محمد أنور عضو مجلس الإدارة.

ومن مجلس إدارة اتحاد كرة اليد: خالد ديوان نائب رئيس مجلس إدارة اتحاد كرة اليد، عمرو فتحي عضو مجلس الإدارة ورئيس البعثة، أحمد زقزوق عضو مجلس الإدارة ، كابتن عبير عقيل عضو مجلس إدارة.

طالع أيضاً.. قائمة الأهلي لمباراة سيراميكا كليوباترا في الدوري.. عودة ياسر إبراهيم

وقال وزير الشباب والرياضة في تصريحات خلال حفل التكريم: “فوز منتخبي مصر للشابات في كرة اليد وكرة السلة يعد إنجازاً كبيراً يُضاف إلى نجاحات الرياضة المصرية، أنا سعيد بالروح والإصرار الذي تحلت به اللاعبات في البطولتين، وما يعكسه ذلك من مكانة المرأة المصرية وقدرتها على إظهار قوة وعزيمة البنت المصرية في مختلف البطولات”.

وأضاف: “فرحتونا وشرفتونا، فالإنجاز لا يأتي صدفة، وإنما هو ثمرة تخطيط وجهد متواصل على مدى فترات طويلة، كما أن اتحاد كرة اليد يواصل نجاحاته، وفي المقابل نعمل على إعادة بناء كرة السلة المصرية من جديد بخطط واضحة ورؤية مستقبلية”.

وأكد: “نمتلك في مصر بنية تحتية رياضية قوية، ومنشآت وأندية، وكل مقومات النجاح متوفرة، ونحن ملتزمون بدعم أبطالنا وبطلاتنا، ومساندتهم بلا توقف، وذلك رغم الأزمات والتحديات، نحن متمسكون بالاستقرار والنجاح على المستويين السياسي والرياضي، والرياضة المصرية بخير، وأصبحت مصدر سعادة وفخر لكل بيت مصري، بل وأصبحت هناك عدوى إيجابية تدفع الشباب والأسر لممارسة الرياضة، تجربتنا الرياضية أصبحت نموذجاً يطلب الكثيرون الاحتكاك به والاستفادة منه”.

من جانبه قال عمرو مصيلحي، رئيس الاتحاد المصري لكرة السلة: “(إن ينصركم الله فلا غالب لكم)، أشكر الحضور على ثقتهم ودعمهم، هذا الإنجاز ثمرة جهود جميع العاملين بالاتحاد، كما أنني لا أنكر دعم معالي وزير الشباب والرياضة ومتابعته لكل كبيرة وصغيرة تخص الاتحاد، وأتوجه له بالشكر على دعمه المستمر، وأعده بأن القادم يحمل المزيد من الإنجازات لكرة السلة المصرية”. 

وأعرب الكابتن خالد فتحي، رئيس الاتحاد المصري لكرة اليد، عن سعادته بهذا التتويج التاريخي الأول لشابات كرة اليد.

وأكد أن المنتخب ضرب مثالاً يُحتذى به في الإصرار والعزيمة لتحقيق الحلم الإفريقي، ومعرباً عن تقديره الكبير لدعم الدولة المصرية والقيادة السياسية للرياضة والرياضيين.

One of Australia’s best young cricketers, Sam Konstas, has announced himself on the domestic stage, hitting his maiden Sheffield Shield century for NSW.

AAP08-Oct-2024

Teenage prodigy Sam Konstas has announced himself on the big stage, striking a coming-of-age century for New South Wales against South Australia in Sydney.Konstas went to his maiden century on day one of the Blues’ Sheffield Shield season opener, hitting 152 as the hosts went to stumps on 297 for 7 against South Australia at Cricket Central.One of the leading lights of Australia’s U19 World Cup success last year, Konstas has long been touted as one of the country’s best young talents. And the opener showed why on Tuesday.The 19-year-old cover-drove superbly throughout his innings, and took to spinner Ben Manenti by hitting him down the ground for three sixes. He then brought up his century off his 163rd ball in the final over of the second session, nudging Brendan Doggett down to backward-square for a single. Konstas’ first Sheffield Shield ton came with Australia’s chief selector George Bailey in attendance. And while the right-hander is not yet in the conversation for the Test opening spot, good judges expect him to one day figure.Konstas made his Shield debut for NSW last summer, and amid glimpses of promise he brought up a maiden half-century in the last round against Queensland. But he looks a far more accomplished and confident batter this summer.He used his feet well to spin, and swept Nathan McSweeney for a big six before offering up his only chance with a missed stumping by Alex Carey.The youngster then brought up 150 by flat-batting a Lloyd Pope full toss over the legside. He was eventually caught at slip off the legspinner, when adjudged to have inside-edged a ball onto Carey’s legs before it was caught by McSweeney.”It was an amazing achievement. Obviously, it’s good to get my first one,” Konstas said. “I just have to be hungry for runs. And whatever teams I make, it’s a bonus.”With Shane Watson as his mentor, Konstas is a regular meditator before games and rushes to the wicket at the start of his innings.”A big thing [I learned from last summer] was my mental stuff, just keeping simple plans and how can I do it for longer?” Konstas said. “I try to be calm.”I did [meditate] this morning, and then I was trying to do that on the field. Just breathing and using it to switch me on and off.”It worked today.”Konstas’ runs came as wickets fell around him under heavy cloud cover and light drizzle. Moises Henriques (five) and Matthew Gilkes (10) both fell to loose shots outside off stump, while Nic Maddinson was caught charging Manenti on 12.Oliver Davies provided some brief fireworks before being bowled by Jordan Buckingham for 37, while Josh Philippe hit 56 in his first Shield game for the Blues.Philippe was eventually stumped off Pope, as the South Australia spinner finished the day with 3 for 61 and NSW suffered a collapse of 3 for 17. Umpires called off play shortly after due to bad light, infuriating visiting captain McSweeney given he had kept his spinners bowling.

Glasgow Rangers welcome Panathinaikos to Ibrox this evening in the first leg of their second round Champions League qualifier, and one player who will not be involved in Ridvan Yilmaz.

The Turkey international was left out of the squad for the match, with Jefte and Max Aarons preferred in the full-back department, and it remains to be seen if his future is in Scotland.

It was recently reported that the left-back has agreed to return to Besiktas this summer, but it is now down to the clubs to thrash out a deal for the defender.

Yilmaz only started 11 matches in the Scottish Premiership during the 2024/25 campaign and may be looking at a return to his home country to play week-in-week-out.

Rangers in talks to sign new left-back

The Light Blues should sanction an exit for the 24-year-old flop this summer because they are currently pursuing a deal for a player who would be a big upgrade for Russell Martin.

Transfer Focus

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

Expand Collapse

According to DaveOCKOP, Rangers are in talks over a deal to sign Liverpool left-back Owen Beck to bolster their options at the back for the 2025/26 campaign.

The report claims that the two clubs are locked in negotiations but the Light Blues are progressing in their pursuit of a swoop for the Welsh full-back.

It adds that the Premier League champions are currently holding out for a fee of £10m for their academy graduate, whilst the Gers would like to pay around £7m for him.

However, John Percy has since claimed that Derby County have agreed a deal to sign the defender on loan, which means that the Light Blues will need to step up their pursuit immediately to hijack a move.

Why Rangers should sign Owen Beck

Martin should push for the club to reach an agreement with Liverpool in these talks because he is a proven Scottish Premiership performer who would come in as a big upgrade on Yilmaz this season.

The 22-year-old star, who was once described as a “spectacular” player by talent scout Jacek Kulig, spent last season on loan at Blackburn Rovers, playing 24 times in the Championship, but previously shone on loan at Dundee.

Beck played 25 matches in the Premiership whilst on loan at Dundee in the 2023/24 campaign and caught the eye with his impressive displays at left-back, earning a place in the Team of the Year.

Premiership

Owen Beck (23/24)

Ridvan Yilmaz (24/25)

Appearances

25

17

Big chances created

6

4

Assists

4

2

Key passes per game

2.3

1.2

Tackles + interceptions per game

3.9

1.8

Ground duel success rate

57%

60%

Dribble success rate

60%

0%

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, the Liverpool loanee provided quality as both an offensive and defensive force down the left flank that season, as he created goals and prevented them by making tackles and interceptions.

These statistics suggest that the left-footed star has the potential to be a big upgrade on Yilmaz for Rangers, as he could provide more quality as a creator at the top end of the pitch whilst also offering a more well-rounded defensive presence, thanks to his strength in duels on the ground and in the air.

Given that his performances came in the Premiership, as well, the Light Blues would be signing him with almost a guarantee of quality, as Beck has been there and done it at that level.

Related As dispensable as Nsiala: Teams have major interest in Rangers flop

There are teams eyeing up moves for this flop and Clinton Nsiala from Rangers this summer.

Posts ByDan Emery Jul 21, 2025

This is why the Light Blues should be pushing to sign the ace who was once considered the best left-back in Scotland, because he would improve the team and allow the club to send Yilmaz back to Besiktas, should an acceptable offer come in.

علق مجدي عبد الغني، قائد منتخب مصر السابق، على أزمة أحمد سيد زيزو لاعب الأهلي الحالي مع ناديه السابق الزمالك، منتقدًا الأرقام الضخمة في عقود اللاعبين داخل الكرة المصرية، ومُشددًا على أن الوضع المالي للأندية لا يتحمل مثل هذه الالتزامات.

وقال مجدي عبد الغني، في تصريحات عبر قناة “الشمس”: “زيزو يطالب نادي الزمالك بـ82.5 مليون جنيه في الجلسة التي حضرها بالتحقيقات التي أجريت معه في الاتحاد المصري لكرة القدم، الزمالك كان قد اتهم زيزو واشتكى ضده، وزيزو أيضًا اتهم الزمالك وتقدم بشكوى، وذهب هو ووالده إلى الاتحاد المصري لكرة القدم”.

وتابع: “في الحقيقة زيزو الله يكون في عونه، يمر بمرحلة صعبة جدًا، الأموال الكبيرة التي نسمع عنها، وهي كفيلة بأن تقصم ظهر أي شخص، عندما تتحدث مع ناس بسيطة وتسمع هذه الأرقام، البعض يحسد والبعض يحقد، وآخرون يحسدون دون قصد لأنهم يرون هذه الأرقام مقارنة بظروف معيشتهم فيجدون فارقًا هائلًا”.

وأضاف: “الزمالك ليس لديه أموال، ورغم ذلك يطالب زيزو بـ82.5 مليون جنيه، حسبي الله ونعم الوكيل، من كتب عقدًا بهذا الرقم؟! (يا عم، العب بالناشئين واخسر)، أفضل من أن تأتي بلاعبين وتكتب لهم هذه الأرقام سواء في الأهلي أو الزمالك، هذا الكلام لا يقتصر على نادٍ بعينه، أنا أتحدث عن الجميع”.

وأشار: “الأهلي أيضًا تعاقد مع لاعب بمليون ونصف المليون دولار عندما كان الدولار بـ40 جنيهًا، لاعب لم يشارك سوى مباراة واحدة اسمه سافيو، فقط لأنه من البرازيل، مع أن هناك لاعبين في البرازيل لا تتجاوز أسعارهم 250 أو 300 ألف دولار، حتى في أندية كبيرة مثل بوكا جونيورز وسانتوس، نحن نأتي بهم بـ1.5 مليون دولار”.

وتساءل عبد الغني: “لماذا هذه الأرقام الضخمة؟ لو كنت تدفع من جيبك ما كنت لتفعل ذلك أبدًا، لأنك شقيت وتعبت لجمع هذه الأموال، ثم إن هذه الأموال التي تُدفع للاعب قد لا تعود بعائد للنادي، لو عاد ربع المبلغ ستعتبر نفسك بطلاً، لكن لأن الأموال ليست من جيوبهم، تصرفوا بهذه الطريقة”.

طالع أيضًا | خاص | كواليس ومفاجآت.. تفاصيل جلسة التحقيق مع زيزو في اتحاد الكرة

وواصل: “أصحاب القرار جيوبهم “مخيطة”، لا يخرجون منها شيئًا، لا على مطاعم ولا على مقاهٍ ولا على أي شيء، وحتى عندما يذهبون للشراء يريدون الأخذ بالمجان”.

وعاد عبد الغني وتساءل: “هل يوجد لاعب في مصر يستحق هذه الأرقام؟! الخليج نفسه لا يدفع مثل هذه المبالغ، على سبيل المثال، يُقال إن العين الإماراتي يريد التعاقد مع إمام عاشور مقابل 4 ملايين دولار، لكن لم يصدر شيء رسمي حتى الآن، مجرد كلام في الهواء”.

وشدد: “ومع ذلك، حتى إن كان صحيحًا، فهذا أمر طبيعي لأن الدولار عندهم بثلاثة دراهم، بينما عندنا تجاوز 47 و48 جنيهًا، عملتنا تراجعت بشكل كبير، وبالتالي لا يصح أن نستمر في دفع أرقام ضخمة بالدولار ونحن في ظل هذا التضخم”.

واختتم: “في النهاية، هل إمكانيات الأندية عندنا تسمح بهذه التعاقدات؟ الله أعلم، نحن لا نعرف شيئًا عن الميزانيات، حتى الجمعيات العمومية لا تفهم من الأرقام المعروضة شيئًا، كل شيء يُخلط ببعضه”.

MatériaMais Notícias

Não foi a estreia mais bonita, mas o Corinthians começou o Brasileirão com o pé direito. A equipe comandada por Fernando Lázaro venceu o Cruzeiro por 2 a 1, com gols de Matheus Araújo e Róger Guedes. Aos 50 minutos da etapa final, Lucas Oliveira descontou para a Raposa.

continua após a publicidadeRelacionadasFutebol LatinoBoselli, ex-Corinthians, marca golaço pelo Campeonato Argentino; assistaFutebol Latino16/04/2023CorinthiansNo reencontro de Ronaldo Fenômeno com o Corinthians, ídolo é presenteado com nova camisa do clubeCorinthians14/04/2023CruzeiroCruzeiro compra os direitos do volante Ian Luccas em definitivoCruzeiro14/04/2023

+ATUAÇÕES: Matheus Araújo e Róger Guedes comandam vitória do Corinthians sobre o Cruzeiro

O Corinthians não vencia em estreias como mandante na competição desde 2018. A derrota marcou o retorno da equipe mineira na Série A após três anos.

O Timão volta a campo na quarta-feira (19), contra o Argentinos Juniors, pela segunda rodada da fase de grupos da Libertadores. Já a Raposa aguarda o próximo final de semana, quando recebe o Grêmio pelo Campeonato Brasileiro.

+ Guia Corinthians: onde assistir, análise dos adversários e tudo sobre o Timão na Libertadores

COMEÇO SONOLENTO

A partida começou equilibrada, com ambas equipes brigando pela posse de bola e buscando o jogo pela beirada do campo, mas o primeiro tempo foi bastante picotado, com 16 faltas.

Apesar da falta de criatividade de ambas equipes, o Corinthians teve as melhores chances na primeira etapa. Primeiro, Bidu arriscou de longe, mas Rafael Cabral se esticou e espalmou. Depois, Fagner cobrou escanteio, Gil subiu alto e cabeceou, mas a bola saiu pela linha de fundo.

+No reencontro de Ronaldo com o Corinthians, ídolo é presenteado com nova camisa do clube

BRILHA A ESTRELA DE MATHEUS ARAÚJO

Com Cantillo na vaga de Roni, o Corinthians voltou para o segundo acelerando na transição ofensiva, mas seguia com problemas de criação, enquanto o Cruzeiro só ameaçava Cássio com chutes de longa distância.

Em raro momento no qual o Corinthians conseguiu envolver o Cruzeiro, a equipe da casa abriu o placar. Aos 23 minutos, Matheus Araújo tabelou com Fausto Vera, ficou cara a cara com Rafael Cabral e finalizou no alto, cruzado, sem chances para o goleiro. Na comemoração, o garoto chorou com o primeiro gol pelo Timão.

+ Veja tabela e todos os confrontos do Brasileirão

RÓGER GUEDES AMPLIA

Na reta final da partida, o Cruzeiro se jogou ao ataque para buscar o empate, mas foi o Timão que balançou novamente as redes. Em cobrança de escanteio,Gil cabeceia firme, Rafael Cabral dá o rebote e Róger Guedes empurra para o gol. O árbitro Daronco havia assinalado falta no lance, mas após consultar o monitor do VAR, mudou a decisão e validou o gol.

RAPOSA ESBOÇA REAÇÃO, MAS É TARDE DEMAIS

Mesmo com dois gols de desvantagem, o Cruzeiro seguia firme no ataque e conseguiu diminuir o placar. Lucas Oliveira recebeu cruzamento na segunda trave e cabeceou quase sem ângulo para o fundo das redes. Nos acréscimos, a defesa corintiana prevaleceu e o Timão conquistou os três pontos.

CAMPEONATO BRASILEIRO -1ª RODADA
CORINTHIANS 2 x 1 CRUZEIRO
Local: Neo Química Arena, em São Paulo (SP)
Data e hora: 16/4/2023, às 16h (de Brasília)
Árbitro: Anderson Daronco
Assistentes: Rafael da Silva Alves e Mauricio Coelho Silva Penna
VAR: Wagner Reway
Público/renda:41.716 / R$ 2.681.550,00
Cartões amarelos:Fausto Vera, Roni, Fagner, Róger Guedes (COR) / Nikão, Lucas Oliveira (CRU)
Cartões vermelhos:-
Gols:Matheus Araújo (23’/2ºT) (1-0); Róger Guedes (44’/2ºT) (2-0) e Lucas Oliveira(50’/1ºT) (2-1)

CORINTHIANS
Cássio; Fagner, Bruno Méndez, Gil e Matheus Bidu (Fábio Santos, 46/2ºT); Roni (Cantillo, intervalo), Giuliano (Matheus Araújo, 40/1ºT), Fausto Vera(Fábio Santos, 46/2ºT) e Adson Barletta (Adson, 24/2ºT); Róger Guedes e Yuri Alberto. Técnico: Fernando Lázaro.

CRUZEIRO
Rafael Cabral; William, Luciano Castán, Lucas Oliveira e Marlon; Richard, Ramiro(Machado, 26/2ºT) e Vital (Rafael Bilu, 30/2ºT);Bruno Rodrigues, Wesley(Nikão, 15/2ºT); e Gilberto. Técnico: Pepa.

continua após a publicidade

The England opener has opened up a controversial episode in his career saying it was ‘a really, really tough time’

ESPNcricinfo staff29-Oct-2024

Ben Duckett has lifted the lid on the incident that saw him sent home from Australia during the 2017-18 Ashes after pouring a drink over James Anderson, revealing Anderson threw a drink over him first before feeling bad and encouraging Duckett to return the favour.Duckett was part of the Lions tour at the time, desperate to add to four Test caps picked up from tours of Bangladesh and India at the end of 2016. The indiscretion ended up setting him back as he was sent home with a fine and suspension from the ECB. He eventually returned to the Lions set-up at the end of 2018.The incident took place before the third Test against Australia, at Perth’s Avenue Bar, with England 2-0 down and subject to intense scrutiny of their off-field behaviour. The venue had already gained notoriety on the tour after Jonny Bairstow “greeted” Cameron Bancroft at the bar by butting heads ahead of the series, a story that emerged with falsely malicious undertones during the culmination of England’s loss at the Gabba in the first Test.Related

Duckett 'poured drink over' Anderson

Bairstow 'headbutt' allegations 'blown out of proportion' – Strauss

Dynamic Duckett gives England a puncher's chance on turning deck

The ECB was already on high alert heading to Australia after Ben Stokes was charged with affray in September of that year, before being found not guilty in 2018. Duckett’s misdemeanour ended up being the final straw, prompting a midnight curfew instilled following the Bairstow-Bancroft episode to be made permanent, though it has been relaxed intermittently since.At the time, head coach Trevor Bayliss could not contain his anger, telling reporters: “It’s a fairly trivial incident but, in the current climate, it’s just not acceptable”. Anderson used his column in the to downplay what he regarded as “a pretty silly incident”.Both Bayliss and managing director Andrew Strauss – who had to insist England players were not “thugs” after losing the first Test in the wake of the Bairstow’s “headbutt” – put their foot down as allegations of a booze culture prevailed. England ended up succumbing to a 4-0 series defeat. By then, Duckett had already returned home as part of the collateral.Seven years on, Duckett is an established international, and with Anderson now retired – though he remains part of the Test set-up as a bowling consultant – he is comfortable clarifying that he was not the instigator on that fateful night in Perth, and that he feared his England career was over.”Jimmy actually threw a drink on me, but no one knows about that,” Duckett told podcast. “And then said, ‘oh, we’re just messing around. You can just lob one on my head. That’s fine.’ Genuinely. So then I just poured one on his head and the security guard saw me from the ECB, who looks after us, and it filtered back.”That was kind of basically the story. We carried on the rest of the night together, getting on well. That’s the story that’s got blown up. Then obviously when things start getting out in the media and everyone’s saying all this stuff, then everyone believes that like that. And as soon as a story or a headline’s out there, ‘well that’s what happened then’.”But then you can’t really come out and say what I’ve just said, because I’m a young lad trying to break into the England team. It’s one of the best ever England players, you know? And people didn’t really want to hear me.The 2017-18 Ashes tour was largely a miserable one for England•Getty Images

“It was actually a really, really tough time. People look back and it’s probably funny and stuff like that. But when you’re in Australia and you’re kind of being told you can’t go to training, you can’t play – it’s a lonely place for a 22-year-old.”And being in Australia, you’re not getting much sympathy from any anyone out there, are you? But yeah, it was one of those things where… it feels like your world’s ending. The time difference, you’re not speaking to family much. The lads around me in that group at the time were amazing.”Duckett’s subsequent emergence as an England regular across has allowed him to put a positive spin on that period of his career. Only Joe Root (2250) has more than Duckett’s 1980 runs since returning to the Test side as an opener at the end of 2022, at a strike rate of 88.55, with four centuries.The left-hander was one of just three batters to average over 50 in the recent 2-1 series defeat to Pakistan. He is also set to be a vital cog in the rejuvenation of the limited overs set-up, led by Test head coach Brendon McCullum who will assume control of England’s white-ball sides in the new year.While Duckett feared for his future after that 2017-18 winter, he believes the resolve it bred has been integral to developing as a mainstay across all three formats.”It’s not that moment that was the issue. It was, you know, for the next 12 months, it was, ‘you’re basically on hold now for a little while’. Which for a 23 [year-old]… that’s kind of a bad time to basically get told you’ve got no chance here.”It does make you grow up a little bit faster and stuff and dealing with what I had to deal with probably made me a little bit more resilient as a person and probably a bit tougher.”All these things now, in a really weird way, I wouldn’t change much of it because, where I am right now, when I play for England, it’s like I don’t want to give that shirt to anyone else.”I’ve probably not made things easy at times. I’m not a saint and an angel, and I probably was an easy target at the time. That would be the only thing I’ll say – whether it was dealt right or wrong, that’s for people to make their own mind up.”

Tottenham Hotspur’s 17th-placed Premier League finish last campaign showcases the job Thomas Frank has on his hands as he enters his first year in charge in North London.

He would’ve certainly faced an easier task had he had Harry Kane at his disposal, with the England international a player who is undoubtedly one of the best to ever ply his trade for the Lilywhites.

The 32-year-old rose through the ranks before making a huge impact on the first team, often being the man the supporters relied on for goals in crucial moments.

Kane ended up registering a total of 280 goals during his stint in the capital, the highest of any player in the club’s history, also slotting in at second place in the Premier League’s record books.

However, after his departure back in 2023, the club have ultimately failed to replace his goals, leaving Frank with such a task during his first window in charge.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for a new striker this summer

After the Dane’s appointment, Brentford striker Yoane Wissa has been a player who has been hugely linked with a move to follow his former boss across the capital.

Such rumours are unsurprising given his tally of 19 league goals for the Bees last season, leading to Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest also interested in his signature this window.

However, he’s not the only attacker currently on their radar, with PSG star Randal Kolo Muani another player they’re pursuing, according to journalist Santi Aouna.

He claims that the Lilywhites have already entered talks over a deal to land the French forward, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Juventus.

Aouna also states that Frank’s side face competition from Manchester United for the 26-year-old’s signature this summer, but Daniel Levy is working hard to reach an agreement before the September 1st deadline.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be Frank’s answer to Kane

Two players have mainly shared the responsibility of providing the goals at the top end of the pitch for Spurs since Kane’s departure – Dominic Solanke and Richarlison.

Both have endured their injury struggles over recent times, posting respectable tallies, but ultimately, there’s still huge room for improvement in such an area.

The Englishman, who cost a club-record £65m last summer, and the Brazilian managed to net a combined tally of 13 league goals, whilst Kane scored double that figure on his own last campaign.

Replacing the record goalscorer was always going to be a near-impossible task, but the current lack of goals from the centre-forwards on the books highlights the need for a new talisman this summer.

Kolo Muani would provide the new boss just that, having the opportunity to claim the starting role as his own should he move to North London during the off-season.

He’s previously been labelled as a similar player to Kane by FBref, managing to match or better the former Lilywhites in key areas throughout the recent campaign.

The Frenchman, who’s been dubbed “extremely dangerous” by compatriot Bixente Lizarazu, posted a higher goal per shot on target rate, evidently being more efficient with his chances in front of goal.

How Kolo Muani & Kane compare in 2024/25

Statistics (per 90)

Kolo Muani

Kane

Games played

26

31

Goals & assists

12

35

Shot on target accuracy

48%

42%

Goals per shot on target

0.4

0.3

Key passes made

1.4

1.3

Take-ons completed

1.5

0.8

Carries into opposition box

1.2

0.7

Aerials won

1.2

1

Stats via FBref

Kolo Muani also completed more key passes per 90, along with more take-ons achieved, highlighting his all-round talent with the ball at his feet, something which could hugely benefit Frank in his quest for success.

However, whilst he’s a technically gifted forward, the former Eintracht Frankfurt star also bettered Kane for aerials won per 90, potentially being the perfect fit for the Lilywhites’ current side.

All the aforementioned stats are undoubtedly important, but ultimately, the fans and manager will want him to provide the goods in front of goal throughout 2025/26.

His tally of 10 goals in just 22 loan appearances in Italy last season showcases that there is certainly a player there, with Frank able to land his own version of the record scorer if he can unlock such talents out of Kolo Muani.

Related Frank's very own Mbappe: Spurs in talks for "one of the most prolific" CFs

Tottenham Hotspur look set to make a move for a star who could thrive like Kylian Mbappe.

Posts ByEthan Lamb Aug 1, 2025

The three who quit are Naimur Rahman, Khaled Mahmud and Enayet Hossain Siraj

Mohammad Isam31-Oct-2024

The BCB has removed 11 directors from the board after they failed to attend three or more consecutive meetings, in accordance with the board constitution. The list includes former president Nazmul Hassan and BPL chairman Sheikh Sohel.The others are Manzur Kader, AJM Nasir Uddin, Anwarul Islam, Shafiul Alam Chowdhury, Ismail Haider Mallick, Tanvir Ahmed, Obeid Nizam, Gazi Golam Murtoza and Nazib Ahmed. In addition to the 11, the BCB accepted resignations from three other directors: Naimur Rahman, Khaled Mahmud and Enayet Hossain Siraj.All of the above names have been missing in action since the Awami League government was dethroned on August 5 following a violent student uprising. They have direct or indirect connections with the Awami League. Nazmul was the sports minister, Shafiul an Awami League MP while Nasir was a former Chattogram mayor during the Awami League’s 15-year reign. Sohel and Nazib are relatives of Sheikh Hasina, the former prime minister, while Mallick was Nazmul’s close associate.The BCB had 25 directors in all before the fall of the government and 10 remain after the departure of those 14, as one had passed away before August.The BCB also formed a constitution amendment committee headed by director Nazmul Abedeen. According to the press release, “the committee will be responsible for assessing the current BCB constitution, identifying areas of improvement and proposing amendments that align with the strategic goals and evolving needs of the BCB”.Two weeks after an interim government was sworn in on August 8, the BCB directors elected Faruque Ahmed, the former Bangladesh captain, as the president while Abedeen, the renowned coach, also became a director. They took the places of Jalal Yunus who resigned as a director and Ahmed Sajjadul Alam was removed as director.

Luke Littler has emerged as one of the best-known sportsman in the UK after turning the darting world upside down.

Making his World Championship debut in 2023, the teenager is already a Triple Crown winner, lifting both the World Championship and World Matchplay in 2025, on top of his Premier League triumph in 2024.

Related "No brainer" – Luke Littler names £135m signings he wants Man Utd to make

The darts World Champion wants to see more new faces at Old Trafford.

Posts ByCharlie Smith Jul 31, 2025

With plenty of media duties for Littler to abide by on a regular basis, he is questioned on numerous topics, including football.

A huge Manchester United supporter, Littler was asked for his top five Premier League players recently and included some stars from rival sides Liverpool and Manchester City.

5 Eberechi Eze Arsenal

Arguably a surprise inclusion in the list despite a wonderful 2024/25 season with Crystal Palace is Eberechi Eze.

The England international helped the Eagles win the FA Cup with a victory over Manchester City, a team Littler won’t be fond of due to his Red Devils ties.

Eze’s fine form in the final third as an attacking midfielder saw him score eight goals and provide eight assists in the Premier League. Those incredible performances were enough to earn him a big-money move to boyhood club, Arsenal, during the summer.

4 Bruno Guimaraes Newcastle United

Another name in Littler’s list that may catch some off guard is Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes.

The Brazilian did help the Magpies qualify for the Champions League, defeating the Red Devils both home and away. Guimaraes scored in the 4-1 win for Newcastle over Ruben Amorim’s side at St James’ Park in April.

3 Bruno Fernandes Manchester United

Littler had to include Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes in his list, with the Portugal international having a standout season despite the overall struggles at Old Trafford.

Fernandes scored 19 goals and registered 19 assists in all competitions, helping United to the Europa League final, while also lifting the Nations League with Portugal.

2 Rodri Manchester City

Coming in at number two is Manchester City star midfielder Rodri, who missed large parts of the 2024/25 season through injury.

Littler highlighted the fact that the Spaniard is a Ballon d’Or winner, and his absence from Pep Guardiola’s side was huge, with City struggling without their main midfielder.

Related Ballon d'Or 2025 Final Rankings

Where did the 30 nominees finish?

Posts ByCharlie Smith Sep 23, 2025 1 Mohamed Salah Liverpool

Despite Littler being a United fan, he had to name rival Mohamed Salah as his top Premier League star following his unbelievable season for Liverpool.

The Egyptian King broke records in 2024/25 as the Reds won the title, with Salah scoring 29 goals and providing 18 assists in the top flight. The first name in Littler’s list, it’s hard to argue against him when it comes to the Liverpool star being the best in the Premier League.