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The Rajasthan Royals seamer has added the cross-seam length ball into the pitch and the wide yorker to his arsenal, and it’s working for him

Shashank Kishore06-Apr-20251:25

Boucher: Archer’s pace and rhythm show he’s back

Sandeep Sharma’s journey with Rajasthan Royals (RR) has been nothing short of a fairy tale. What began as a late entry in 2023 – drafted in as a replacement for the injured Prasidh Krishna – has evolved into a remarkable redemption story after he was one of their retentions ahead of IPL 2025.Sandeep’s redemption has been down to two key developments. He is no longer just a powerplay specialist reliant on swing – he has evolved into a versatile bowler who can also deliver in the middle overs and at the death. There is also his expanded arsenal: a cross-seam length ball into the pitch that proves effective on two-paced surfaces, and the skill to nail wide yorkers with precision.On Saturday, the first of those variations helped him finish with 2 for 21 in four overs – two at the top and two at the death – as RR defended 205 against Punjab Kings (PBKS) comfortably.Related

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“When I came here two years back, I had a discussion with the management and they told me what they were looking [at] from me,” Sandeep said in a press conference after the game. “They told me my role. From there, I started working on myself. They told me they were not looking at two-three overs from me [upfront], and then when I was back home, I was practicing this.”They started using me after fourth-fifth over, when the ball gets older. And I also started preparing like that. I think it’s a result of good preparation. Obviously, when you want to play, you need to grow, right? That’s what I thought, that I needed to grow. I can’t ask the captain to give me the new ball all the time.”If you’re playing in a team where [Jofra] Archer is playing, and he’s so good with the new ball, and you have to play in the XI, you have to bring something [else] to the table. That’s what I did – I went back to my hometown, into the nets and practiced all these deliveries. And I’m so lucky and happy that it’s coming off so nicely.”Sandeep showcased his death-overs mastery in the 17th and 19th overs, blending yorker-length deliveries with cross-seam variations to stifle a well-set Shashank Singh, who has earned his stripes in the IPL as a finisher. His control and execution were on full display as he delivered seven yorkers in those two overs, giving Shashank no room to innovate.He also outsmarted the in-form Suryansh Shedge, fresh off a strong Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign, with a well-disguised slower ball that angled away from his hitting arc. It was a clinic in precision and tactical acumen.”That is a very deadly combo – one guy bowling around 150kph and another bowling around 115,” Samson said of Archer and Sandeep. “I think we should cut a cake on that, maybe,” when reminded that Sandeep had clocked 130kph too. “I can trust them with pressure overs. We all love it when he [Archer] bowls those quick overs. Sandy has been doing it for me for the past few years. He is one of the best guys in India who bowls both in the powerplay and death overs.”Sandeep revealed that he tailored his plans based on feedback from the RR batters about the Mullanpur surface, which hasn’t been an ally for PBKS, who now have lost five out of their six games here.”Because we bowled in the second half, we had an advantage of taking some feedback from our batters, that was massively helpful,” Sandeep said. “Bowling back of a length, hitting top of off was our plan, as hitting was tough. That’s what our spinners also tried to do. Balls bowled on the back of a length were skidding and keeping low.2:28

Did the two teams read the pitch differently?

“We observed this when we batted, we read the pitch faster than the other team. During the time out, we spoke to the batters and took feedback from them on what’s tough to hit, what kind of deliveries are tough to convert into boundary balls, and we cut down on those balls on this wicket.”Sandeep was also full of praise for Archer. After conceding 109 across 6.3 wicketless overs in his first two games, Archer has had 4 for 38 from seven in the next two. On Saturday, Archer was high on pace, hitting the high 140s and early 150s every delivery in his first over that accounted for two wickets, including Shreyas Iyer’s.”In the first two matches, your nerves are there. But we always knew he’s world-class, the skill he brings to the table or into the game is totally different, very few bring that,” Sandeep said of Archer. “The management had confidence the day he gets that one over, one wicket or two good overs, that will boost his confidence.”He’s one of the toughest bowlers to face or play. It was just our fourth game; with more games, he’ll get better and better. Earlier, when he went for runs, his length was different, now his lengths are different. That’s what champions do, they change quickly [depending on] what is needed and that’s what he did.”

Away from the no-show on transfer deadline day, Leeds United have been very frustrating already on their return to the Premier League.

There was a buzz around Elland Road after the Whites just about got the better of Everton on the opening weekend courtesy of a Lukas Nmecha penalty, but that has since unfortunately been followed up by a crash back down to reality when losing 5-0 to Arsenal, on top of a bore draw back on home soil versus Newcastle United.

Departing league action, Daniel Farke’s men were also dumped out of the EFL Cup recently after losing to a Sheffield Wednesday side stricken with squad selection issues.

A poor attack has definitely irked Leeds fans so far this season, as new signing Dominic Calvert-Lewin spurned plenty of chances at Hillsborough.

But, the left-back spot in the side will also make them feel uncertain.

Leeds' left-back predicament

Away from purchasing reinforcements in the centre-back spot this summer, Farke also had the tough mission of replacing Whites’ regular Junior Firpo in the left-back position.

Firpo would, unfortunately, walk away from West Yorkshire this off-season to move back to Real Betis on a free transfer, having just been fresh off a Championship campaign that saw him collect a whopping ten assists from 34 contests.

With four goals also next to his name, it was a sad ending for a much-loved Elland Road servant. However, the writing might well have been on the wall when considering his past Premier League difficulties, with his last season at the punishing level seeing him collect just one paltry clean sheet.

In the past, the Whites have had to think on their feet in this department, with utility man Ezgjan Alioski often drafted into this spot during his celebrated 171-game stay. He was largely a success story, too, with six goals and seven assists notched up from 66 appearances here.

In the wake of Firpo’s departure, Farke and Co. did swoop in for Gabriel Gudmundsson, with the Swede standing out last time against the Toon with two key passes under his belt, while successfully winning 100% of his duels.

However, the new Leeds signing would limp off towards the end of that closely fought match, with a past Whites ace no doubt a shoo-in for a starting spot on the left channel if he was still situated in West Yorkshire.

The former Leeds star who'd walk into Farke's XI

The lack of squad depth handed to the German in the transfer window could well come back to bite the Whites, particularly if a relegation dog-fight soon arrives on the menu.

James Justin can play in Gudmundsson’s spot if needed, but the ex-Norwich City manager would love to have Leif Davis at his disposal here in a dream reality, with the 25-year-old an assist king at the Canaries’ arch rivals in Ipswich Town.

Looking at the table below, it’s clear why Leeds must be plagued with so much regret that Victor Orta let Davis move to Suffolk for just £1m back in 2022, with the attack-minded defender now up to an insane 38 assists and six goals for the Tractor Boys.

Davis at Ipswich

Season

Games

Goals + Assists

25/26

3

0

24/25

33

1 + 3

23/24

44

3 + 21

22/23

46

3 + 14

Sourced by Transfermarkt

These numbers wipe the floor with an equally creative Firpo, with his 2024/25 offering arguably a lot more impressive than what initially meets the eye.

The “sensational” 25-year-old – as he has been previously lauded by journalist Stuart Watson – would create 12 big chances in total in the Premier League, despite Ipswich dropping back down to the EFL.

He could well make a world of difference to Leeds right now if he were available for selection; therefore, with Calvert-Lewin perhaps recapturing his goalscoring peak, knowing he has Davis supplying him with chances galore.

With Nottingham Forest being heavily linked to him this summer, it is a shock to see that the one-time £1m man is still in the Championship, considering he’s now worth a far heftier £19m, according to Transfermarkt.

He will no doubt find himself in the luxurious circles of the Premier League again down the line, but until then, Leeds will have to make do with what they currently have, as survival is sought after.

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Posts ByDan Emery Sep 4, 2025

Arne Slot would have been delighted when he led Liverpool to the Premier League title last season in spite of FSG’s reluctance to wield their purse after Jurgen Klopp packed up and left.

Who can say the Dutch coach needs a wide range of signings? He bagged gold without any real investment last year. Now, though, the tactical mastermind is being handsomely rewarded.

A range of impactful signings have already been made, with Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz strengthening the frontline. Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong have refreshed the full-back ranks. Giorgi Mamardashvili joins Alisson Becker between the sticks.

Liverpool's next transfer target

Attacking additions usually draw the biggest acclaim. But Liverpool also need a centre-back, and this became clear after the vested interest in Dean Huijsen was made known.

But Huijsen has signed for Real Madrid in a £50m deal, joining Trent Alexander-Arnold. Thus, Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes has turned his attention to Marc Guehi, though the Crystal Palace defender is also on Tottenham Hotspur’s radar, with the Londoners currently weighing up an official bid.

If Liverpool don’t sign the Three Lions star, it seems they have identified Ajax sensation Jorrel Hato as the man to complete Slot’s backline, with transfer insider Ben Jacobs confirming the teenager is on the shortlist.

Hato is also in Chelsea’s sights, and it is the Blues who lead the race at this stage. However, Liverpool could steal ahead should they mount a concerted effort, with a shrewd £40m price tag floating about.

Why Liverpool should sign Jorrel Hato

With Ibrahima Konate’s future uncertain, Real Madrid lurking and the Frenchman just one year away from free agency, it feels like bringing in a centre-back is a matter of urgency this summer.

Especially as Jarell Quansah left for Bayer Leverkusen in a £35m package last month.

Hato might only be 19, but he’s already emerged as one of Ajax’s leading players, playing 111 senior matches for the Dutch giants and earning six caps for the Netherlands national team.

His fast-track rise to stardom – Hato has been hailed as “one of the best young talents in football” by U23 scout Antonio Mango – and versatility suggest he could be Liverpool’s next version of Cody Gakpo, who also joined the Anfield side directly from the Dutch Eredivisie.

Left-back

88

4

8

Centre-back

70

3

3

Central midfield

1

–

–

Left midfield

1

–

–

Gakpo, 25, signed for Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven for £35m in January 2023, and he has since become one of the staples of a trophy-winning Reds side, with pundit Peter Crouch even claiming he had “gone up a level” in Slot’s system last season.

Last season, he scored 18 goals and supplied seven assists for the Premier League champions, maturing in a fixed role coming off the attacking left flank.

Hato could emulate his countryman, with his dynamic positional qualities sure to see Slot shuffle him about before he grows into his skin in England and establishes himself as one of the Premier League’s leading centre-halves.

The defensive phenom might not have played in his natural central role all that much throughout the 2024/25 season, but he still finished ranked among the top 1% of positional peers for pass completion and the top 12% for aerial duels won per 90, as per FBref, thus illustrating his properties that are well suited for the position.

Though Hato is an unrefined gem, he is a jewel all the same. And Slot has demonstrated across the past 12 months his capacity to lift his countrymen – Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch – up and up into the upper sphere of European stars.

With Hato, he can repeat the trick, coaxing the player into a starring role over the next few years.

Scouts sent: Liverpool eyeing move to sign new 6 foot 3 Guehi alternative

He’s caught the eye of the Reds’ scouts.

ByTom Cunningham Jul 23, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur’s attack has already been subject to improvement this summer, with Thomas Frank evidently wanting added reinforcements in such a department.

It may come as a surprise to many, especially considering the side registered 64 league goals last season – the seventh-highest tally of any side in the Premier League.

However, Mohammed Kudus has already been signed to add further depth to such an area, but their business has shown no signs of slowing down as of late.

Countless players have emerged on their radar in an attempt to aid the new boss during his first year in charge, with the hierarchy backing him after taking the reins.

It remains to be seen how much more money the Dane will have at his disposal, but it’s clear that he’s already made up his mind on who he wants to bring to North London.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new signings this summer

In their ambitions of adding to the front line, Real Madrid star Rodrygo has emerged as a surprise option after he was told he’s free to leave the Spanish giants this summer.

The Brazilian would undoubtedly be a marquee signing for Frank this summer, with a fee in the region of £86m mooted – a figure that might be out of reach for the Lilywhites.

As a result, many other players are being lined up by the board, which has seen Stade Rennais talent Arnaud Kalimuendo touted by TEAMtalk for a move to North London.

Their report claims that the hierarchy have already started talks with the Ligue 1 outfit over a move for the 23-year-old, who scored 18 times across all competitions last campaign.

It also states that he could be available for a fee in the region of £30m this window, but could face competition for his signature from fellow Premier League side Nottingham Forest.

Why Spurs’ £30m target would be Frank’s answer to Kalimuendo

Kylian Mbappé is a player who has been one of Europe’s most-feared talents in recent years, understandably so given his clinical record in front of goal with multiple sides.

The Frenchman netted 256 goals in 308 appearances for Paris Saint-Germain over a seven-year spell, before making a huge move to join Real Madrid last summer.

Such a move has allowed the 26-year-old to reach new heights in his career, finding the net 44 times in his 59 appearances, ending his first season in Spain as the division’s top scorer.

His goalscoring prowess has made him such a threat to countless sides across the continent, already winning 18 major honours during his time at the top level.

However, whilst the Lilywhites will be unable to land Mbappé himself, they could be about to sign their answer to the forward with a summer move for Kalimuendo.

The 23-year-old has a long way to go until he matches the levels produced by his compatriot, but he’s already showcased his talents during the early stages of his own career.

FBref have labelled him as a similar player to Mbappé, showcasing the talent he possesses, even outperforming the Madrid star in multiple areas last season.

Games played

33

34

Goals & assists

20

34

Goals per shot on target

0.4

0.3

Passes into final third

2.4

2.3

Fouls won

1.4

1.2

Aerials won

0.8

0.1

Aerial success rate

47%

40%

Pass accuracy

83%

82%

Kalimuendo, who’s been labelled “one of the most prolific” talents by talent scout Jacek Kulig, posted a better goal per shot on target rate, highlighting the clinical edge he possesses based on the chance he was presented with last season.

His creativity is also reflected in his higher tally of passes completed and passes made into the final third, having the tools to provide others around him with the chance to thrive in North London.

The youngster’s all-round brilliance is further demonstrated by his aerial ability, with his versatility and varied skill set making him a talent who Spurs need to get their hands on.

£30m for a player of his calibre in today’s market would certainly be a bargain and offer an addition that would hand Frank the attacking quality he craves this summer.

Should he continue on his current trajectory, there’s no reason why he can’t be one of Europe’s leading talents, potentially leading the Lilywhites to Premier League glory in the near future.

Their best forward since Kane: Spurs in talks to sign "world-class" star

Tottenham Hotspur have the opportunity to land one of their biggest ever transfers this summer.

2 ByEthan Lamb Jul 30, 2025

Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is said to be livid with a change of heart from Morgan Gibbs-White, which opened up his delayed potential move to Tottenham, according to an intriguing new report.

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ByEmilio Galantini Jul 15, 2025

Forest have now written a letter to both Gibbs-White’s agent and Spurs, threatening legal action over what they’re convinced was an unlawful approach from the Lilywhites.

Thomas Frank was set to sign the 25-year-old late last week, with Tottenham poised to trigger his £60 million release clause. A medical was even booked last Friday at Hotspur Way, but after this unexpected twist, Gibbs-White has now been forced to wait.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

Tottenham remain hopeful of signing Gibbs-White, despite Forest’s intentions not to sell (Sky Sports), and the England international has reportedly made it clear to Marinakis that he wants to join Spurs.

However, Forest appear determined to at least drag out this move for as long as possible, if they can’t stop it.

Fabrizio Romano told GiveMeSport on Monday that it is a very “tense” situation, but Spurs are confident they’ll be able to proceed soon and make Gibbs-White their fourth signing of the summer after Mathys Tel, Kota Takai and Mohammed Kudus.

If the potential £60 million deal goes through, it would take their summer spending to around £150 million, with chairman Daniel Levy making a serious statement of intent to back new manager Frank ahead of 2025/2026.

Forest are allegedly furious with both the confidentiality of Gibbs-White’s release clause being exposed and Tottenham’s approach to the player himself, which technically breaks Premier League rules, but it is also very commonplace in today’s football transfer market (Rob Dorsett).

Taking this into account, a report by Football Insider and journalist Wayne Veysey has shared more information on the saga, with Marinakis angry for another key reason.

Forest livid after Tottenham hijack part-exchange deal involving Gibbs-White

According to Veysey, Forest were in advanced talks with Man City over a part-exchange deal, which would’ve seen Gibbs-White go to the Etihad Stadium and James McAtee head to the City Ground.

However, Tottenham hijacked City’s move for Gibbs-White, which was close to being finalised, and the playmaker ultimately changed his mind about a move up north – choosing to join Frank’s side instead.

This “U-turn” from Gibbs-White and his camp is said to have infuriated Marinakis, and a lot of his anger stems from this.

If Forest are forced to sell the former Wolves star to Spurs, they’ll need to head back to the negotiating table with City for McAtee, and could end up paying an even higher transfer fee for the 22-year-old.

As supporters and clubs alike wait for this situation to be resolved, Gibbs-White is back training at Wilford Lane, but Forest still face the very real prospect of losing both Anthony Elanga and their star attacking midfielder in quick succession.

Leeds United have a huge task on their hands in the 2025/26 Premier League season. They will be looking to defy the odds and survive relegation from the English top flight, which is not something the last six promoted clubs from the past two seasons have managed.

The Whites, who were centurions with their points tally in the Championship last season, will be relying on the quality already in the squad, coming from the likes of Ethan Ampadu. However, they have also been busy in the transfer market, too, with Jaka Bijol the headline signing so far.

Yet, the Yorkshire outfit do not seem to be done just yet, when it comes to incomings. Reports in the last couple of days suggest they are set to strengthen in midfield.

Leeds' latest midfield target

Daniel Farke’s side have already got Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff in their sights. The Guardian have recently reported that a £12m deal, including add-ons, is a real possibility, with personal terms easy to agree.

Transfer Focus

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

However, the Magpies’ academy graduate is not the only midfielder Leeds are targeting.

German news outlet Bild are reporting that they are ‘very interested’ in signing Hoffenheim midfielder Anton Stach.

The Bundesliga side are said to be reluctant to sell but ‘willing to discuss a suitable offer’ if Leeds submit one. However, they are standing firm on their price.

Hoffenheim are demanding at least £17m from the Whites to do a deal, explaining that they need to ‘dig deep into their pockets’ to sign him.

Why Stach would be a good signing

Stach would bring to Leeds two crucial things you need to help survive in the Premier League. They are experience, which he has plenty of, being 26 years of age, and physicality. Given that he stands at 6 foot 4, it is safe to assume he can handle the physical nature of the league.

As for the experience aspect, the German midfielder is a key part of the Hoffenheim side. He made 39 appearances last season, with six of those coming in the Europa League. That included a group stage appearance against Tottenham Hotspur, a game in which he scored.

One of the interesting things about Stach is his versatility. Whilst he is a midfielder by trade, described as an “anchor” by football scout Antonio Mango, the 26-year-old can also slot in at centre-back. Last term for Hoffenheim, he played as a defensive midfielder 26 times and at the heart of his side’s defence on 13 occasions.

That is similar to one of Leeds’ most important players, Ampadu. The Welshman is also a versatile footballer and played a similar role to Stach last term. He slotted in at centre-back 16 times and the base of the midfield 13.

The value of having a player with this profile in your squad was highlighted by Farke back in December. He described Ampadu as “my most important player”, showing just how crucial he is to the side. For Leeds to have two players of that profile would surely serve them well.

Indeed, not only are they similar in this sense, but Stach and Ampadu have similar numbers on FBref. Both are progressive players, with the German averaging 5.3 progressive passes each game compared to the Leeds star’s 4.17 progressive passes per 90 minutes.

On top of that, look at the similarity between their ball recovery numbers. Stach averages 5.96 per game compared to Ampadu’s 5.08. They are neck and neck.

Progressive passes

5.3

4.17

Tackles and interceptions

3.9

2.83

Blocks

1.64

1.02

Progressive carries

1.15

1.02

Ball recoveries

5.96

5.08

Aerial duels won

1.85

2.4

If Leeds get this deal over the line, Stach could switch to Elland Road and become, in many ways, the second coming of their number four, Amapdu. Farke has made it clear that this profile is important, so having two players with that versatility would be a huge benefit.

For just £17m, a deal for this “fantastic” player, as Mango called him, could be one of the bargains of the summer.

Their new Klich: Leeds considering move for PL star after internal talks

Leeds United are reportedly considering a deal to sign a star who could be their next Mateusz Klich.

ByDan Emery Jul 9, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur are now confident about winning the race for a £25m striker, who could be in line to join alongside West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus, according to a report.

Tottenham pushing to sign Kudus

Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg has now revealed that Tottenham are in ongoing talks over a deal to sign Kudus, with the Ghanaian winger keen to make the move across the capital.

The interest in Kudus comes amid doubts over Son Heung-min’s future, with widespread reports suggesting the forward wants to remain in north London for one more year, which means Thomas Frank may have to bring in a long-term replacement for his captain.

With Everton and a whole host of other Premier League clubs keen on Richarlison, a new striker may also be required, and Tottenham have now been provided with an update on their pursuit of OGC Nice’s Evann Guessand.

Football Insider sources say that Spurs are confident about winning the race for Guessand this summer, with the likes of Brighton & Hove Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers also in the race for the forward’s signature.

Tottenham targeting £35m swoop to sign goalscoring midfielder with Kudus

The Lilywhites are set to step up their transfer business.

ByTom Cunningham Jul 7, 2025

The French side have set an affordable asking price of £20m – £25m, off the back of an impressive 2024-25 campaign, with transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke adding: “There’s been talk that Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce would like to sign him as well.

“My sources tell me the player himself is not overly keen on that move, so that will be positive news for his Premier League suitors.

“Looking at the interested clubs, Brighton, West Ham, Wolves… Tottenham I’m sure would be pretty hopeful that, if they do follow up their interest, that they could win the race for his services.”

"Electric" Guessand could be versatile option for Frank

The 24-year-old is capable of playing on both wings and through the middle, meaning he could be a versatile option for Frank in attack, and the 2024-25 campaign was by far the Nice star’s best season to date.

The Ivory Coast international registered 12 goals and nine assists in 33 Ligue 1 outings, indicating he could be a solid replacement for Richarlison, who missed a whopping 37 games through injury last season.

Having averaged a 7.19 match rating in Ligue 1, the France-born forward was also Nice’s second-best-performing player last term, while outperforming every Tottenham player to make more than six Premier League appearances.

Player

Average rating (Premier League)

Son Heung-min

7.0

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

At just £20m – £25m, Guessand could be a bargain addition to the Tottenham squad, and a move to north London should be a far more attractive proposition than joining Wolves or Brighton.

Defending champions drill co-hosts with aggressive top-order batting in Gros Islet, winning with 15 balls to spare

Vithushan Ehantharajah20-Jun-20243:45

Badree: ‘Adil Rashid is such a skillful bowler’

A devastating 87 not out from Phil Salt, supplemented by an unbeaten 48 from Jonny Bairstow, saw England thrash West Indies by eight wickets in St Lucia. It was the kind of performance that set down a marker for the rest of the teams in the Super Eight of the T20 World Cup 2024.The defending champions made light work of their target of 181, with a clinical 97-run stand between Salt and Bairstow earning victory with 15 deliveries to spare.Played out on a fine batting deck at the Daren Sammy National Stadium, Jos Buttler opted to chase at the toss. Things looked precarious after eight overs, with West Indies getting 72 on the board for the loss of just Brandon King, who collapsed with a side strain early in the fifth over, having scored 23 off his previous 12 deliveries.Related

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A diet of spin restricted West Indies’ batters thanks to Adil Rashid – the pick of the bowlers with 1 for 21 from his four overs – and Moeen Ali, who would go on to remove Johnson Charles.Rovman Powell, promoting himself to No. 4, took 20 from the 15th over, striking Liam Livingstone for three sixes down the ground in four deliveries. But an attempt at a fourth off Livingstone’s final ball brought his downfall, caught low at short third by Mark Wood, returning to the XI in place of Chris Jordan.It was the first of three wickets to fall in the space of 12 deliveries for just six runs. Jofra Archer removed Nicholas Pooran caught behind in the next over, before Andre Russell nailed a Rashid googly straight to wide long on.Rovman Powell hit five sixes in his innings•ICC/Getty Images

That West Indies were able to reach 180 without any further loss from a position of 143 for 4 with three overs to go owes as much to Sherfane Rutherford as it does to Wood. The former was able to find 28 from 15 deliveries, 13 of them off the latter as the 18th over was taken for 19.England’s pursuit began steadily enough, reaching 58 for no loss after six overs. Roston Chase’s flat delivery eventually ended the opening stand on 67, trapping Buttler in front, before Moeen came and went, batting at No. 3 for the first time since March 2023.Salt remained, and though he did end up slowing down, Bairstow was on hand to pick up the slack, striking 46 off 21 up to the 16th over. It was then that Salt tagged back in, and unfurled a brutal attack on Romario Shepherd, striking the seamer for 30 with three fours and three sixes – the joint-most expensive over by a West Indian in a T20 World Cup.The first of those boundaries brought up Salt’s half-century from 38 deliveries, before he skewered any remaining jeopardy. It left West Indies to rue a half chance to remove Salt on seven in the third over, when he toed a hack across the line through to Pooran, who could not hold on.Bairstow clicks himself, and Salt, into gearSalt deserved the Player-of-the-Match award. But without Bairstow’s help, he – and maybe even England – might not have had something to celebrate.Salt had emerged from the powerplay with a respectable 35 off 20. But with the field spread, twirlers working in tandem and less of the strike, he had stalled. Going into the 14th over, he had scored just 12 more from 15 deliveries.That was when Bairstow set about a jump-start. For some reason, Powell returned to Alzarri Joseph instead of persisting with the frugal Chase. Bairstow used the pace on the ball to send the first delivery over the deep midwicket fence – the longer side, no less – before ramping the next delivery for four.Adil Rashid delivered the big wicket of Andre Russell•Getty Images

Powell attempted to correct his error by bringing Akeal Hosein back on for his final over. Bairstow, though, was in an unforgiving mood. An attempted reverse sweep brought a subdued lbw appeal before a conventional sweep, a 76-metre six heaved into the stands at midwicket, and a fortuitous inside edge brought 14 from three deliveries. The 16 from the over outright made it Hosein’s most expensive of this World Cup.It was at that point, with 40 needed from 30, that Salt set about his assault on Shepherd. Bairstow watched on from the other end, settling into the role of cheerleader as his partner went ballistic. He eventually had the honour of striking the winning run, raising his personal best at T20 World Cups to 48 not out.”Once Jos got out, I had to be the better to bat through,” explained Salt. “For Jonny to come out and take the pressure off me by taking calculated risks. I couldn’t be happier about that as a teammate.”Windies given the run aroundIntent comes in many different forms. England blitzed the six-count on the tournament’s truest batting pitch, but the difference between the running out in the middle told as true a story.West Indies, for all their might, set a new unwanted record of 51 dot balls – the most any team has registered in a T20 World Cup when posting a score of at least 180. They were also responsible for the previous highest – 50 – in the 2016 edition, albeit when they chased down 193 to take down India in the semi-final on their way to their second title.Moreover, they were second-best when making use of this ground’s lop-sided dimensions, failing to rotate the strike as much as they could, and running just nine twos across their 120 deliveries. Not only did England run three more in 15 fewer deliveries, but they even managed a three in the fourth over when Buttler could not quite time a cut to the cover point sponge. It brought Salt on strike for the final ball of the over, which he used to get going by charging at Russell and launching him back over his head and onto the roof for the first of five sixes.Jofra Archer was consistently around the 90mph mark•ICC/Getty Images

Archer gleeAt the time, the purchasing of Powell’s wicket for 20 runs from Livingstone’s only over did not seem a smart deal. Powell was only averaging 16.25 coming into this match. Having cooled a partisan St Lucian crowd, watching their captain hoist three quick sixes was a surefire way to get them warmed up for the arrival of Russell to assist Pooran, who was set on 32.Both were back in the hut 11 deliveries later. And while Rashid’s snaring of Russell was the icing on the cake in this little stanza that shifted the match England’s way, it was Archer’s in the 17th over that vindicated Buttler’s investment.Over the wicket to Pooran, Archer hammered a tight line across the left-hander. Ranging from full and yorker length, barring one misstep – a full toss third ball which Pooran guided through point for four – Archer had it all his own way.He was too sharp – consistently around the 90mph mark – and too unwavering for a batter slowly falling into a funk, desperate for room to access his favoured hitting zones down the ground. The least full of all the deliveries was the one that took the edge through to Buttler, Pooran presenting the face of the bat in defeat rather than defiance.With six wickets, Archer is now England’s joint top wicket-taker alongside Rashid, boasting an economy rate of 6.58, which is lower than any of his teammates barring Reece Topley (5.50), who has played two fewer games and is still yet to register a dismissal.But the best stat of all is that Archer has now turned out five times for England in the last 15 days. The previous five caps came in the space of 448 days. After the nightmare run of elbow and back injuries over the last two years, the 29-year-old may finally be out the other end.

Everton are thought to have held talks with a “really good” player over a summer move to Merseyside, but they are far from alone in showing an interest.

Everton already lining up summer deals

David Moyes will know the importance of the Blues nailing their summer transfer business, as the Scot looks to transform them back into a mid-table Premier League team who look upwards at the European spots rather than over their shoulder. In fact, with a move to a new stadium coming and funds expected to be available, the club needs to have lofty ambitions moving forward.

Sunderland captain Dan Neil has been linked with a move to Everton ahead of next season, with the midfielder set to lead the Black Cats out at Wembley in the Championship playoff final against Sheffield United later this month. Failure to get promoted could only improve the Merseysiders’ chances of getting their man.

The Blues are also reportedly interested in signing Brighton striker Evan Ferguson, whose stock has dropped after a disappointing season. The Republic of Ireland ace has struggled out on loan at West Ham, but it may still be that Moyes believes he can turn his fortunes around.

Meanwhile, a John Stones reunion has been mooted at Everton, should the England international leave Manchester City at the end of the season, which could be a popular piece of business among the Blues fanbase.

Everton in talks with Tomas Soucek

According to The Boot Room‘s Graeme Bailey, Everton remain “keen” on completing the signing of West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek this summer. It is claimed that “up to five Premier League clubs have held talks” with the Czech over a move, with the Blues deemed to be one of the teams in question.

The £90,000-a-week-earning Soucek could be a shrewd signing by Everton, even though he may not be the young, creative midfielder that some fans would like to see come in. Now 30 years of age, the West Ham ace admittedly isn’t getting any younger, but he still has plenty to offer, having scored 41 goals in 243 appearances for the Hammers and offering a real physical presence at set pieces.

He'd be Moyes' next Cahill: Everton plot move for "incredible" EFL star

Everton could be about to land a player who could follow in the footsteps of a former fan-favourite.

By
Ethan Lamb

May 15, 2025

The fact that Moyes knows him so well from their time together at the London Stadium together can only bode well – they won the UEFA Europa Conference League together – and the Everton manager has lauded him in the past.

Ultimately, if Moyes believes Soucek can be a strong signing this summer, he needs to be trusted by The Friedkin Group, and there is no reason why he couldn’t be an effective figure who chips in with goals, having even scored three times against Everton in the past.

Tottenham Hotspur have held negotiations over signing a colossal centre-back in the last few days, according to reports, with chairman Daniel Levy and technical director Johan Lange working to strengthen the squad.

Spurs win Europa League but end Premier League season in 17th

Ange Postecoglou’s future hangs in the balance after what was a very mixed season for the Lilywhites.

£165k-a-week Tottenham star has told Levy he's quitting despite Europa win

He’s informed the Spurs chairman directly.

3 ByEmilio Galantini May 25, 2025

According to reports, Tottenham chiefs are currently ’50/50′ about sacking Postecoglou, with the Australian ending their 17-year wait for a major trophy whilst also leading them to a record-breaking 22 Premier League defeats this campaign, resulting in a lowly 17th-placed finish.

The emotional high surrounding their first European triumph since 1984 in the Europa League, coupled with Postecoglou’s rousing speech at the trophy parade, will be firmly stuck in Levy’s mind – and the chairman is now faced with an almighty conundrum ahead of next season.

“As much as you try to understand what a trophy would mean to these people, seeing them out there today, is why we do what we do,” said Postecoglou after their Europa League final win.

“That’s the priceless bit, for this feeling. I’m super pleased that these boys could deliver. All good things come through hard work, toil, perseverance and belief. This group have that in spades and I’m so pleased that we could crack that stone and now everyone can enjoy it.

“We had to dig deep, for sure, but what the history books will say is that we’re the Europa Cup winners, and it doesn’t say how we did it, just that we did it. I made family a theme from when I got here because I felt that we needed something to bring us all together and look further than just what everybody wanted. We had to form some sort of unity and the lads have been brilliant. They’ve shared their stories and got closer through the tough times like all families and now they share the reward.”

A decision on Postecoglou will need to be made and quickly, with the first of two 2025 summer transfer windows set to open imminently.

Tottenham hold "negotiations" over signing Pisa defender Francesco Coppola

Tottenham’s qualification for the Champions League gives Levy and Lange an almighty boost when it comes to the club’s recruitment drive, with reports suggesting Spurs are more confident they can tempt players like Marc Guehi as a result.

The Crystal Palace star isn’t their only defensive target, either, with Pisa Sporting Club’s rising star Francesco Coppola also on their radar.

The Italy Under-20 international spent 2024/2025 on loan at Serie C side Vis Pesaro, but his performances in the third tier have apparently impressed Spurs scouts – so much so that they’ve approached Pisa over signing him.

That is according to La Nazione, who write that Tottenham held “negotiations” over Coppola in the last few days, but these talks ended pretty swiftly.

Pisa are said to have rebuffed Levy’s advances for the towering 6 foot 5 defender, as they appear determined to keep hold of their highly-promising centre-back. If Spurs are to be successful in their pursuit, they may have to go back in with an offer which proves too good to resist.