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The West Indies wicketkeeper-batter talks about his international resurgence, moving to a new IPL franchise, and the T20 World Cup

Interview by Santokie Nagulendran18-Mar-2022After a disappointing 2021 IPL and T20 World Cup, Nicholas Pooran found a second wind in international series against England and India this year. Ahead of the 2022 IPL, Pooran was picked up by Sunrisers Hyderabad for Rs 10.75 crore (approx. US$1.43 million) at the auction. In this interview he speaks about his prep leading into the tournament with a new franchise, his time as stand-in captain for West Indies, and looking ahead to the T20 World Cup in Australia later in the year.You were the most expensive West Indian player at this year’s IPL auction. Does that sort of money bring added pressure?
As a professional player, sometimes I guess it does, especially when you’re not doing well, the media targets you, a lot of fans criticise you, so it [the fee] definitely does play a part. But as a professional it’s your job to put that noise behind you and just try to perform for the teamYou had a disappointing season by your own standards last year, averaging 7.75 with the bat for Punjab Kings. Do you feel like you need to prove yourself this year?
It doesn’t feel like that. Just because I had one bad season, it’s not going to change the player I am. I am doing pretty well in international cricket and everyone sees that. For me it’s about giving back to my team – the Sunrisers have invested a lot in me and so I just want to give my all for them – to me it’s about being the best version of myself.Related

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Looking back at that last season, what do you think were the reasons for your lack of form?
Things like this happen; everyone goes through patches in their career. First game last year, I got a first-ball duck, then next game, I got a second-ball duck. Eventually I went out to bat and didn’t even face a ball, got run out (). I’m not dwelling on it too much, I believe I am a much better player now, and I learnt a lot from that IPL season. Have you been working on anything technically?
Every player has technical flaws, but to me it’s more mental, having that clarity in my game. Once I can get into that clear space, I think I’ll be all right. As you can see in my last few T20 games, the last three international series, I’ve started to get into that mindset, knowing exactly what I want to do. So hopefully it continues and people can stop saying I need to keep proving myself.You featured at three, four and five for Punjab Kings, but for Guyana Amazon Warriors in the CPL, you mainly bat lower down the order. What is your preferred batting position in the format?
I’ve just started to bat at No. 3 [for West Indies] and I’m having some success there. I’m enjoying it at the moment, but for me it’s about doing exactly what the team wants. If I’m picked for a situation, a sitting role, I’ll give my 100%. So for me, I don’t have a favourite number, I know I can bat anywhere and contribute to the team.Pooran managed just 85 runs in 11 innings for Punjab Kings in the IPL last year•BCCIWhat are the differences between batting at three compared to four or five?
Massive difference. At three sometimes, if you come in in the powerplay, the ball is swinging, it’s then just a matter of facing a couple balls and you basically have the freedom to execute your skills to maximise only two fielders being outside the circle. Batting later and coming in the tenth or 15th over, it’s about having that clarity in your execution, the skill and ability to perform in those different roles. If you look around at international cricket, not many openers can finish an innings, so to me it’s about being versatile and working on your skills to adapt. But it’s definitely easier batting at the top of the innings than in the back end.Sunrisers Hyderabad also signed your West Indies team-mate Romario Shepherd. What qualities does he bring to the format?
He’s very hard-working; he’s someone I’ve seen over the last couple of years work hard at his craft. I believe he’s a really smart cricketer, he’s someone who will fight to the end and has that never-give-up attitude. We saw it against England, where he almost pulled that victory off for us. I believe in the near future he will be one of the best allrounders in T20 cricket, because he has that ability – he can bowl quick, bowl at the death, and also smash it very far.You will also be working with fellow Trinidadian Brian Lara, who is the batting coach at the franchise.
Yeah, we have had a couple of conversations in the recent past. He’s simply superb, amazing when it comes to batting and how he views the game. So yeah, looking forward to that opportunity to work with him.KL Rahul was the wicketkeeper when you were at Punjab Kings. This season there’s an opportunity to be first-choice keeper at SRH. Are you looking forward to wearing the gloves?
To me it doesn’t really matter. I enjoy wicketkeeping, and I do enjoy fielding as well. As a wicketkeeper, I’m more involved on the field, in terms of team spirit, trying to make that magic happen when things are not going our way. So, yes, I’m looking forward to the opportunity, whether I’m wicketkeeping or not. As a player who is Indo-Caribbean, do you feel a special connection when in India?

Yeah, I feel a connection. I actually kind of feel like it’s home, I really feel like that. The locals are very friendly, you just have to go there to feel that vibe. I try to learn Hindi and eat as much Indian food when I’m there as well. So to me, I definitely feel that connection.You’ve recently stood in for Kieron Pollard as West Indies captain, and you seem very confident around the players. Is leadership something that comes naturally to you?
It’s come naturally, but I’ve learnt a lot from Pollard, since the Barbados Tridents days [CPL 2017] – I saw how he went about things and developed from there. As a leader you have to talk the talk and walk the walk. You have added responsibility and want the best for your team. At the end of the day it’s about winning the game of cricket, and if I’m in that leadership position, I have to do that extra work. The added responsibility has worked out so far for me.Pooran stood in as West Indies captain after the 2021 T20 World Cup when Pollard picked up at hamstring injury at the tournament•Michael Steele/ICC/Getty ImagesWe’ve seen some local media backlash in the Caribbean against Pollard and head coach Phil Simmons in recent months. Does the team take notice of it?
To be honest, everyone has social media, we know what is happening. I can remember in the England series there were a lot of things going around, and that just made us better as a team. I think we came out and played proper cricket and were successful. That motivated us.Everybody just looks at the outcome, but there’s a lot of work to be done with the West Indies cricket team. I think we are developing, developing a bit slow, but we are seeing progress. Coach Simmons and Pollard are doing an excellent job at the moment, it’s definitely tough being a West Indian and also a West Indies fan. At the end of the day, yes, we want results, but how do we get results? We just can’t turn up and say we are going to be successful. It’s going to take a while for us to cross that bridge, but I am seeing improvements, especially with the batting and bowling. We may not be as consistent as we would like, but that’s the game of cricket; it takes time. After last year’s T20 World Cup we saw Dwayne Bravo retire from international cricket, and Chris Gayle is stepping away as well. How big has their contribution been to West Indian cricket?
Their records speak for themselves. Chris Gayle has the runs record in the format, two T20 World Cups, DJ Bravo also has two World Cups and the wickets he’s taken in international cricket. And it’s not just their records either; their leadership, they’ve been around for a long, long time. For me, if you’re involved with West Indies cricket for over 15 years, that means something special. Those two were my childhood heroes. I was fortunate to play with them and learn from them. A lot of younger players would have got the opportunity to experience just how it feels to be in the dressing room with those two guys.I also believe they are two of the happiest men alive, on and off the cricket field, and that is one of the most important things in life, to do everything with a smile.You played in the Big Bash League for Melbourne Stars in 2020. Now with the 2022 T20 World Cup looming, would you say conditions suit you more in Australia than they did in the UAE?
I believe the wickets in Australia are very good to bat on. I certainly enjoyed my time at the Big Bash in 2020, so I’m looking forward to that opportunity to play in Australia again. Not only me, I know a lot of our players would like the conditions there as well. It’s going to still be a challenge – we have qualifiers first – but we are ready for it.”Gayle and Bravo were my childhood heroes; I was fortunate to play with them and learn from them”•AFP/Getty ImagesAfter returning from the limited-overs series in India, you took some time to play local T10 Cricket in Trinidad. How did you enjoy that?
I really enjoyed it. It’s been two years without local cricket in Trinidad, it’s good to be back with the guys [Sunil Narine, Evin Lewis, Kieron Pollard all took part]. Trinidad has a lot of good cricketers, but it’s also about giving back as well. When I was younger I would have wanted international players to come back to share some knowledge and learn from them. So hopefully a youngster can learn something from me.Do you see T10 Cricket as being distinct from T20?
Definitely different from T20 cricket. I see T10 cricket as being all about freedom. Doesn’t matter as much about the game situation, with the first ball, if you feel like hitting a six, go for it, nobody is going to be angry with you. But it’s also helping the game and helping players expand their game, that fearlessness encouraged in the format brings out more in every player. You spoke with Sir Desmond Haynes, who is the new West Indies selector, about playing red-ball cricket…
We had a small conversation. It went well actually, so let’s see what happens in the future. Going forward, it’s a conversation I need to have with the selectors and coach. It’s difficult, we don’t really get much time off for ourselves. I believe there should be a compromise, but everyone sees it differently.After the IPL finishes in May, West Indies have a few white-ball series, so I don’t know when there’s actually time for me to play first-class cricket or what the way forward is. It’s a challenge. Playing Test cricket is still in my plans, but as I say, everything happens at the right time. When it’s my time to play Test cricket, I’m sure I will.Outside of Trinidad and Tobago, which is your favourite ground to play in?
Dubai International Cricket Stadium. I feel like I have a special connection with that ground, I scored a century there in the 2014 Under-19 World Cup, which means something to me. That was my most memorable moment so far in terms of my cricket career. It will always have a special place in my heart.

Shohei Ohtani hit his 100th home run as a member of the Dodgers on Tuesday night, and he did so in emphatic fashion. Not only was it his 100th home run for the organization, but Ohtani's hit in the third inning was the hardest-hit ball of his entire MLB career.

The solo shot to right field left the bat at a jaw-dropping speed of 120 mph, according to Statcast, which could make it not only the Ohtani's hadest home run, but also the hardest hit he's ever recorded.

Pirates rookie pitcher Bubba Chandler found himself with an early "Welcome to the big leagues" moment after Ohtani parked that ball in the seats in a flash. While walking on the mound in anticipating of his next pitch, Chandler looked as if he could barely believe the home run he'd just surrendered to the best player in baseball.

Prior to Tuesday night, Ohtani's hardest hit ever recorded was a 119.2 mph single back in 2024. Now, he's shattered that with a mammoth solo home run that left the yard at an astonishing 120 mph. In the Statcast era, only five other home runs have been hit with an exit velocity of 120 mph or greater, making Ohtani's the sixth fastest recorded in history. Only Oneil Cruz (122.9 mph), Giancarlo Stanton (121.7, 121.3 mph), Ronald Acuña Jr. (121.2 mph) and Aaron Judge (121.1 mph) have had higher exit velocities on home runs.

A new independent assessment of cricket in England and Wales says that “genuine progress” has been made in the sport’s bid to address its long-standing issues of inclusion and equity – but adds that further work is needed in several areas, including at senior leadership level.The State of Equity in Cricket Report, published by Sport Structures, had been commissioned by the ECB as a follow-up to the damning 2023 report by the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC), which found that racism, classism, sexism and elitism were “widespread” in the sport.That original report had concluded with 44 recommendations to the ECB, one of which was to publish a “full State of Equity Report every three years”. This latest document, 53 pages long, has been delivered a year ahead of schedule, with Richard Gould, the ECB chief executive, stating that it was intended to “hold us to account” as cricket seeks to become the most inclusive team sport in England and Wales.”Cricket is not yet where it aspires to be, but the tone has changed,” Kate Percival, Sport Structures’ CEO, said in a statement. “Inclusion is now seen as central to the game’s health and future.”The report outlined several “notable areas of progress”, including improved access to talent pathways, and a doubling of the number of women’s and girl’s teams since 2021, backed up by significant increases in the number of professional women’s players and their pay.The establishment of a new independent Cricket Regulator, ring-fenced from the rest of the ECB, was also noted in the report, along with a £50 million investment in facilities since 2023, particularly in urban areas including two all-weather cricket domes in Bradford and Darwen.However, despite improved representation at board level – with female non-executives at 37% compared to 11% in 2019, and 18% ethnically diverse non-executives compared to 5% in 2019 – the report stated that “further action” was required at senior level, with a particular lack of Black representation.Dame Sarah Storey is the only female chair at a first-class county•Lancashire CCC

Dame Sarah Storey, who is currently interim chair at Lancashire, remains the only female chair at any of the 18 first-class counties, while the resignation of Essex chair Anu Mohindru – who was found to have lied on his CV – means the ethnic diversity among county chairs and chief executives remains at 6%.Coaching course data showed that more diversity is required in the Specialist programme which feeds the professional game, while Disability cricket requires “deeper integration” within county and club systems. The recreational game, meanwhile, requires further “capacity and expertise” to deal with discrimination issues, although a newly-formed Recreational Discipline Panel of independent experts is in place to hear the most serious and complex cases.”The State of Equity in Cricket Report holds us to account in relation to our ambitions to become the most inclusive team sport,” Gould said. “It shows us some areas of excellent work and progress, as well as where we need to go further.”The extensive work to open up the talent pathway to young people from every background is a great example of the changes that can be made when cricketing organisations join forces to break down barriers and deliver systemic change.”We know there is still a great deal of work to do, and a number of areas where more action is needed to address structural issues. We said from the start there could be no quick fix, but we committed to delivering meaningful and lasting change, and that will remain our absolute focus in the months and years ahead as we build on the progress we are setting out today.”

Only 3.4 overs possible on blustery, grey day at Eden Park

Andrew Miller23-Oct-2025New Zealand 38 for 1 (Seifert 23*) vs England – match abandoned England claimed the spoils in their T20I series against New Zealand, after the third and final match at Auckland went the same way as the series opener in Christchurch – lost to the weather as steady early-season rain swept in to curtail the contest after just 3.4 overs.In the limited time available, Tim Seifert made the running for New Zealand with an enterprising knock of 23 not out from 11 balls. He launched his innings with two fours off Luke Wood in the three balls that were possible prior to the evening’s first hour-and-a-half-long delay. Then – after the match resumed as 14 overs a side – he struck two sixes off the extra pace of Brydon Carse, including an outrageous reverse-scoop over fine leg that was well caught in the crowd.Carse did hit back at the other end, removing Tim Robinson for 2 as Jacob Bethell clung on well to a top-edged pull at deep midwicket. Wood then bowled an effective over to the left-handed Rachin Ravindra, finding sharp late movement in the seam-friendly conditions. Ravindra got going with a pulled six off Carse, but moments after Seifert had landed the second of his sixes off the same bowler, the rain returned once more.Despite a planned resumption at 10pm local time – with the match further reduced to eight overs a side – the grim weather returned just as the players were preparing to take the field, and the match was abandoned soon afterwards.It completed an unsatisfactory early-season foray for New Zealand, whose curtain-raising series against Australia at the start of the month had similarly been affected by the weather. They had made the running in the series opener, limiting England’s hard-hitting line-up to 153 for 6 on a seaming wicket at Hagley Oval, but were blown away in the return fixture two days later, losing by 65 runs after England had smashed the ground record with their total of 236 for 4.England chose to bowl first having named an unchanged XI for this decider. Despite the grey weather and unusually short boundaries at Eden Park, they decided to trust the balance that had impressed in Christchurch, with Liam Dawson retained as a second spinner ahead of an extra seam option.New Zealand, meanwhile, made one change – Zak Foulkes coming in for Kyle Jamieson. But in the end, it was all academic, as attention now turns to the ODIs which get underway in Mount Maunganui on Sunday.”It’s very frustrating,” Brook said at the post-match presentation. “The weather hasn’t been ideal. But great for the boys to get some time out there.”It’s a great place to tour, we’ve had an amazing time so far. We’ve got the ODIs coming up and we’re looking forward to it. We’ve got a few big names coming back and hopefully we can keep that momentum in the next few weeks.”Mitchell Santner, New Zealand’s captain, rued his team’s missed opportunities, both with the weather and their own performances: “I guess this time of the year it (rain) is always a potential. It’s always nice to play England, no matter what time of the year you play.”The way we bowled in that first game [was good], especially on a Hagley wicket that did give us a little bit. The second game, we were put under a lot of pressure on a good wicket, so when we come across that again, we’ll have learnings from that.”

Kylian Mbappe’s feud with Paris Saint-Germain has exploded into one of football’s most expensive courtroom battles, with the Real Madrid star now demanding more than €260 million in compensation. PSG have countered with an even bigger €440m claim, as both sides accuse each other of breaches of contract, bad faith and unfair treatment in a case now before a Paris labour court.

Mbappe escalates compensation claim against PSG

French superstar Mbappe’s long-running contract dispute with Paris Saint-Germain has reached a dramatic new phase, with the forward now demanding over €260m (£229m/$301m) in compensation as the case moves through the Paris labour court. According to a recent report by the Real Madrid striker, who did not attend Monday’s hearing, has massively increased his initial claim of €55m (£48m/$64m), arguing that PSG “owe him that money because his fixed-term contract should be reclassified as a permanent one.”

This reclassification, his lawyers say, would entitle him to full compensation for unfair dismissal, unpaid wages, bonuses and severance, in addition to substantial damages. His legal team stated: “Kylian Mbappe is not asking for anything beyond what the law provides; he is simply seeking the enforcement of his legal rights, as any employee would.”

Mbappe’s complaint also alleges moral harassment, undeclared work and breaches of PSG’s duty of good faith, pointing to his sidelining in 2023 after he informed the club he would not extend his contract. The forward was excluded from a pre-season tour and forced to train with fringe players, a practice described in France as “lofting.”

The case stems from the breakdown of relations following Mbappe’s refusal to activate the optional extension in his 2022 contract, a decision that left PSG facing the prospect of losing a €300m (£264m/$347m) asset for free, and ultimately did.

AdvertisementAFPPSG’s accusations of loss of revenue and reputational damage

PSG have responded with a colossal counter-claim of €440m (£387m/$510m), arguing that Mbappe’s departure on a free transfer inflicted severe financial and reputational harm. The club insists he acted in bad faith throughout the final year of his contract, with PSG saying in a statement: “The club has presented evidence demonstrating that the player acted disloyally by concealing his decision not to extend his contract for almost eleven months, between July 2022 and June 2023, thus depriving the club of any possibility of arranging a transfer.”

PSG further argue that Mbappe reneged on what they describe as a verbal agreement to forgo certain bonuses in exchange for being reintegrated into the squad during the 2023-24 season. Their statement adds: “The player challenged an agreement reached with the club in August 2023, which provided for a reduction in his remuneration should he decide to leave freely, in order to preserve the club’s financial stability following the exceptional investment made.”

The French champions also categorically denied allegations of psychological pressure or mistreatment, which Mbappe has been claiming. PSG emphasise that Mbappe still played over 94% of official matches that season, reinforcing that all “sporting decisions were made by a coach who is now a Champions League winner.”

Mbappe’s camp challenges PSG allegations and recounts isolation period

The French captain’s legal team has firmly rejected PSG’s narrative, insisting that the club never provided proof of any agreement to waive bonuses. The player maintains that he was subject to “moral harassment,” pointing to his exclusion from pre-season tours and enforced training away from the first-team squad. His camp argues this treatment created a “hostile working environment” and breached the club’s obligations under the French labour code.

His lawyers highlight that Mbappe’s sidelining began shortly after he informed PSG he would not extend his contract, claiming this amounted to a clear attempt to pressure him into renewing. They repeated that PSG have “never produced any evidence” of a verbal pact on bonuses or salary reductions.

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AFPCourt ruling could reshape contract disputes across European football

The star forward, who left PSG having scored a club-record 256 goals in 308 games, believes that the club’s actions were motivated by frustration over his decision to depart for free. His team insists PSG used public pressure tactics to shape the narrative around his exit, a claim the club vehemently denies.

This legal confrontation has quickly become one of the largest and most complex player-club disputes European football has ever seen, and the combined claims push the potential financial outcome of a figure unprecedented in football labour cases.

The tribunal is expected to deliver a decision on December 16, though the case may drag on through appeals. 

Whether this is his final season at Manchester United or not, there will come a time sooner rather than later when the Red Devils will line up without Bruno Fernandes in tow, with the Portuguese’s future likely to again be a talking point next summer.

As the 31-year-old revealed in a tell-all interview ahead of making his 300th United appearance last month, he had held talks with Saudi side Al Hilal over the summer regarding a potential move, only to eventually opt to stay put in Manchester with his business still seemingly unfinished.

Also the subject of interest from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024, the club’s long-serving talisman has rightly courted admiring glances amid his stunning form over the past five years or so, racking up 100 goals and 89 assists in his 302 outings to date.

While five of those goal involvements have come in this season’s Premier League already, it does appear that the baton is finally being passed, however, with Ruben Amorim’s influential skipper no longer the sole star attraction.

Indeed, all eyes are on INEOS’ £71m signing Bryan Mbeumo following his return of six goals in his first 12 games for the club, with Fernandes quietly pulling the strings in a deeper role.

With Amorim also outlining the prospect of his captain needing to adjust to potential “rotation” next season, should United return to European competition, the gradual phasing out of the playmaker might well have started…

The candidates to replace Fernandes as captain

Fernandes himself was awarded the honour back in the summer of 2023, with then-boss Erik ten Hag taking the decision to strip Harry Maguire of the captaincy, with reports subsequently stating that the Englishman was heading to West Ham United.

To his credit, the latter man stayed to fight for his place, since securing cult hero status with a string of vital goals, be it his last-gasp clincher against Lyon, or the late winner against Liverpool this season.

With the 32-year-old facing his own Old Trafford uncertainty amid his expiring contract, however, it would be unlikely to see him outlast Fernandes at the club, with other candidates in the running to take the armband.

Indeed, at present, Matthijs de Ligt – the hero against Tottenham Hotspur last time out – is showcasing captaincy material, albeit while not actually having been included in Amorim’s self-appointed leadership group in pre-season.

Instead, that experienced bunch includes Fernandes, Maguire, Casemiro, Lisandro Martinez, Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot, with the ex-Sporting CP boss singling them out as the leaders in his first-team ranks.

Like Maguire, however, Casemiro’s current deal expires in 2026, while Martinez may be more concerned with getting back fit and firing again, having been absent since sustaining an ACL injury back in February.

Mazraoui, too, has also endured an injury-hit start to 2025/26, with the Moroccan defender also no longer a guaranteed starter, following Amad’s emergence in that right wing-back berth.

The form of the Ivorian – which includes his stunning equaliser against Nottingham Forest – has also plunged Dalot’s long-term future into doubt, with the Portuguese full-back potentially in line for the axe before too long.

Why Man Utd's 'future captain' needs to be sold

The merits of Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system have long been debated, although amid United’s five-game unbeaten run, it looks like a corner may have been turned, with the squad beginning to find its feet at both ends of the pitch.

Bruno Fernandes

52

Noussair Mazraoui

45

Diogo Dalot

45

Manuel Ugarte

44

Leny Yoro

44

Rasmus Hojlund

40

Alejandro Garnacho

40

Harry Maguire

40

Matthijs de Ligt

39

One area which remains something of a headache is at wing-back, however, with the 40-year-old coach having flitted between Patrick Dorgu and Dalot on that left-hand side in recent weeks.

While the latter man did assist Mbeumo from that role against Burnley, he has largely looked rather uncomfortable in an unorthodox role, having notably failed to prevent Nicolo Savona from converting at the City Ground two weeks ago.

In a system that demands an attacking intent from those on the flanks, even on his favoured flank, the one-time Porto man has hardly flourished in that sense in recent times, racking up just nine goals and 18 assists in 220 games for the club to date.

While once something of a “standout” under Ten Hag – having claimed the Players’ Player of the Year award at United in 2024 – Dalot no longer appears to have a defined role under the new regime, putting his future into doubt heading into 2026.

With a contract that expires in 2028, it could prove the perfect time to try and cash in on the £24m-rated defender – as valued by Transfermarkt – with the INEOS regime no doubt needing to do what they can to reshape the squad in Amorim’s image.

Of course, Dalot appears to be an influential figure under his compatriot, as his place in the leadership group showcases, having reportedly produced something of a rallying cry in the dressing room following the 3-3 draw with Porto last season.

It is for acts like that that the £90k-per-week star had emerged as one of the club’s “future captains” – as relayed by Samuel Luckhurst – although with his own form now under scrutiny, his Old Trafford stay should be coming to an end.

Forget Sesko: Man Utd's "anxious" dud is now becoming INEOS' worst signing

Manchester United have one player who has massively struggled to meet expectations at Old Trafford.

ByEthan Lamb Nov 11, 2025

Thomas Frank has enjoyed an impressive start to his tenure at Tottenham Hotspur, only losing three of his first 14 competitive games in charge of the club.

However, many fans still aren’t convinced by the Dane, especially after the defeat against Newcastle United in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night.

The 51-year-old only made four changes to his starting eleven, but one of which proved to be a huge mistake – with Mohammed Kudus dropping down to the substitutes bench.

The Ghanaian has been the Lilywhites’ shining light in 2025/26, as seen by his tally of one goal and four assists within his first nine Premier League outings.

Such creativity was hugely lacking against the Magpies, with the £55m leaving the responsibility down to one of the other big-money names to move to North London this summer.

Xavi Simons’ best game in a Tottenham shirt

After spending £52m on the signature of attacking midfielder Xavi Simons, huge excitement was generated within the Spurs fanbase – but it’s safe to say he’s failed to live up to such expectations.

The Dutch international has registered just one assist and failed to score a single goal in any of his 11 outings, further backing up his lack of impact in North London.

However, his showing against Newcastle was arguably one of his best for the club, with Frank finally starting to utilise the 22-year-old in his natural attacking midfield role.

Simons featured for the entirety of the defeat, subsequently creating three chances for his teammates – but none of which resulted in a goal for Frank’s men.

Richarlison was often the man on the end of his chances, but the Brazilian’s wasteful nature was highlighted in his own tally of two big chances missed.

There’s no doubt he’s been unlucky during his opening few months in England, but the manager can certainly solve such an issue during the next couple of matches.

The Spurs player who can finally get Simons firing

In Spurs’ nine Premier League matches throughout 2025/26, the side have already netted 17 goals – subsequently averaging nearly two goals per game in England’s top-flight.

The goals have been spread around the first-team squad, as seen by centre-back Micky Van de Ven’s tally of three goals, which puts him joint-top of the goalscoring charts.

Richarlison has also netted the same number of goals, but has been called into question over the last few weeks for his inability to find the back of the net.

The Brazilian has failed to score in any of his last eight outings for the Lilywhites, often being wasteful within the final third – as seen by his misses against the Magpies.

Dominic Solanke has been unavailable over recent months due to an ankle issue, with Frank needing to hand fellow centre-forward Randal Kolo Muani the chance to impress.

The Frenchman joined on a season-long loan from PSG on deadline day, but has only started one game to date as he builds up match fitness after a stop-start pre-season.

However, despite his minutes off the substitutes bench, the 26-year-old has still demonstrated glimpses of his quality, which could see him handed a needed run of games as a regular starter.

He was even brought on with 25 minutes remaining at St James’ Park earlier this week, making an immediate impact with his direct run through the midfield, halted by referee Chris Kavanagh.

Kolo Muani, who’s been dubbed “phenomenal” by one analyst, may have failed to score for the Lilywhites to date, but his temporary spells elsewhere have showcased his clinical nature.

He scored 10 goals in just 22 appearances with Juventus last campaign, even managing to put 55% of the shots he took on target – highlighting his accuracy in front of goal.

Such numbers would allow Simons to increase his own tallies in North London, with his incredible defence splitting passes falling into the path of a clinical talisman.

Creativity has been the Dutchman’s strong point prior to his move to England, but it’s been massively neglected given Richarlison’s inability to find the back of the net.

However, that could all be about to change if Frank decides to start Kolo Muani, with the pair having the talent to make the 2025/26 campaign one to remember for the Lilywhites.

Forget Kudus: Spurs star is rapidly becoming one of the "best in the world"

Tottenham Hotspur now have a world-class talent on their books under Thomas Frank.

By
Ethan Lamb

Oct 29, 2025

De Leede leads fight for Durham with hard-earned four-wicket haul

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay 22-Jun-2025

A resilient unbeaten century from Sussex’s James Coles defied an excellent bowling performance from Durham’s Bas de Leede on day one of their Rothesay County Championship clash.Ben Raine struck early to give Durham a dream start, but they were pegged back by half-centurion Daniel Hughes, however he was dismissed after lunch to hand Durham the early initiative.Coles remained calm and composed to steady the ship in the afternoon and he along with captain John Simpson put pressure on the Durham bowlers. However, the hosts bounced back after tea thanks to de Leede (4/83), who bowled well on his first appearance of the season.Coles remained at the crease and continued to frustrate the hosts and reached his hundred just before close, with Sussex finishing the day on 322 for nine..Sussex got off to a bad start at an overcast Banks Homes Riverside as Raine removed the in-form Tom Haines for four as he chopped on to his off-stump.Hughes responded with a lovely boundary through the covers from a Matthew Potts delivery, but the Durham opening bowlers limited Sussex’s run-making opportunities. That pressure nearly told as Raine dropped a catch from his own bowling when Hughes mistimed an aerial drive on 15.At the other end Tom Clark took a while to get going, but he played a glorious cover drive for four in Sam Conners’ first over of the season. Hughes continued to take opportunities to score as he slammed a George Drissell ball down the ground for four.Drissell struck back for Durham shortly before lunch as he bowled Clark for 30 with one that found the Sussex man’s off-stump.Hughes then reached his half-century, with it coming from 101 deliveries, but the Australian was bowled for 60 by de Leede, who produced a beauty to dislodge the off-stump.Coles started nicely to thwart Durham’s bowling attack, but the hosts struck back with Conners picking up his first County Championship wicket of the season as Ibrahim was caught behind for five.Durham continued to pile on the pressure and they very nearly had their fifth when Ollie Robinson dropped a regulation catch down the legside after Coles nicked a Raine delivery when he was on 35.Sussex skipper Simpson started well as he launched a Drissell ball down the ground for six.Coles continued to tick along, taking scoring opportunities whenever they presented themselves, with him playing a lovely shot through the covers from the bowling of England man Matthew Potts. The Sussex man then passed fifty for the third time this season, but Simpson was dropped on 17 by Drissell at slip off the bowling of Potts.Coles then pulled a de Leede bouncer to the boundary, while Simpson flicked the first ball after tea to the legside boundary. The impressive Conners struck back with Simpson edging behind to Robinson for a well-made 40.Coles continued to motor though as he caressed a Conners ball through the covers for four and he whipped one through the onside soon after.Wickets kept on falling at the other end though as de Leede got Fynn Hudson-prentice for five after he chipped one up to Emilio Gay at cover and the Dutchman struck again as Jack Carson was caught behind for two.Ollie Robinson came to the crease and hit two boundaries, but he was LBW for nine when Raine caught him plumb in front of his stumps.That brought Jofra Archer to the crease, playing his first red ball game since 2021, and he hit Potts for four through third region.Coles, on 95, nearly fell short of his ton when a leading edge from Raine found its way to de Leede at backward point, but he was dropped for the second time. He then well and truly made Durham pay for their sloppy fielding when he reached his fifth First Class century from 169 balls.Archer looked in good touch with the bat as he slammed a Raine delivery through the covers for four and he then hit de Leede for six, but he was dismissed for 31 from the next ball as he pulled one to Conners on the boundary.Coles remained unbeaten on 117 at close, taking his side to 322 for nine.

Newcastle United and Eddie Howe have inched closer to a successful Carabao Cup title defence, beating Bradford City in the third round and then drawing Tottenham Hotspur.

There’s a tough test, but Newcastle have a fine recent record against the Lilywhites, and the fluency of Howe’s side is building by the day.

It’s quite understandable in hindsight that the sale of Alexander Isak would disrupt the harmony and snap of United’s frontline, with goals scored in only two of their five Premier League games so far.

Isak left for Liverpool on deadline day, and Newcastle banked a record-breaking £125m fee. They lost one of the world’s finest strikers, who scored 27 times in black and white last season and who bagged against Arne Slot’s Reds at Wembley.

Newcastle did replace the Sweden striker with Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade, but William Osula is also staking his claim for a big role this term.

William Osula's early-season form

Howe issued rotation as the top-flight and European action took a breath. Bruno Guimaraes, Anthony Gordon and brace-scoring Joelinton all featured, but so too did the likes of Aaron Ramsdale, Lewis Hall and Lewis Miley get some more minutes under their belt.

However, Osula might feel he was the biggest winner, scoring twice against the high-flying League One side to take his haul to three goals this season, also scoring in that frantic game against Liverpool in August.

Having signed from Sheffield United for £15m last summer, Osula scarcely played across his debut campaign at St. James’ Park, scoring once in the league.

But he’s making headway now.

Osula got himself on the scoresheet before 20 minutes had been played, and then again in the closing stages, sealing his side’s 4-1 victory.

He might have had a hat-trick save for some poor finishing after neat work from Gordon, but, as Howe noted during his post-match press conference, the Danish forward offered more than just goals, holding up well and linking up with his teammates. He looked dangerous and dynamic when playing down the wing.

“He’s done his chances no harm,” Howe said, discussing the potential of the 22-year-old starting in the Premier League once again.

However, Newcastle turned down a £30m approach from Eintracht Frankfurt for the fringe forward this summer, and Howe may come to regret rejecting such a hefty sum, especially when the Magpies have an academy talent who might be even better than his peer.

Newcastle have a bigger talent than Osula

The word on the street is that Newcastle still expect to sell Osula, perhaps next summer. There’s a player in there, but Osula is very much unrefined, and after what Howe described as a “turbulent” summer for the number nine, he finds himself third-fiddle on Tyneside.

Wissa is currently sidelined with a knee injury and has yet to make his debut after joining from Brentford, but Woltemade has shown plenty of promise after completing a club-record £69m move from Stuttgart, scoring on his debut and showcasing his talent thereafter.

Osula has been left somewhat in the lurch, even after scoring against Liverpool.

And with an up-and-coming talent like Sean Neave knocking on his door, Osula may well find himself completing that transfer away next summer.

A natural-born finisher, Neave, 18, has been riding the crest of a wave in Newcastle’s academy. He has always been a reliable goalscorer, but the youth’s ability to carry his form up the levels with relative ease suggests he may soon be knocking on Howe’s door. In fact, he might already be.

Six games into the season for Newcastle’s development side, Neave has scored three goals and provided one assist. No longer playing for the U18s, he is a regular starter in the Premier League 2, despite having reached adulthood only at the end of the 2024/25 campaign.

Newcastle U18

37

21 (7)

Newcastle U21

15

7 (3)

Newcastle YL

6

1 (1)

Newcastle

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Neave is a “good finisher”, all right, as has been said by Newcastle blogger TomTalksToon, and he already stands at 6 foot 1. A gangly frame that does not inhibit his pace and athleticism, the teenager is akin to Isak, but let’s just wait and see if he can match the former Toon man’s almighty scoring record in the English top flight.

Perhaps Neave was somewhat frustrated to have been left out of the matchday squad against Bradford. However, his professional debut is sure to be right around the corner, with his electric pace and threat in the final third sure-fire ingredients for success in the Premier League.

Osula is more refined physically, but Neave is on a programme that is giving rise to his strength and athletic focus on the field. It’s only a matter of time.

And when that time comes, might Howe and co not regret cashing in on Osula when they had the chance? If Neave continues his meteoric rise with such speed, he may well overtake his goalscoring rival, which would do United’s chances of shipping him out for a big fee no favours.

Newcastle’s 4.6 xG (expected goals) total in the Premier League this season puts them 16th. Not great, but neither is it an accurate representation of the talent and the creativity coursing through Howe’s team.

Instead, Newcastle will continue to go from strength to strength, and Wissa and Woltemade will too.

It’s difficult to see how Osula surpasses either, so unpolished is the Denmark U21 international. And when considering Neave is waiting in the wings and bound to make his senior debut sooner rather than later, Howe may come to wish he had taken the £30m and ran.

Howe could unleash Newcastle's own Yamal in 18-year-old "elite talent"

Newcastle’s academy setting has changed for the better in recent years.

ByAngus Sinclair Sep 24, 2025

كشفت تقارير صحفية عن مفاجأة بشأن الأسطورة الأرجنتينية ليونيل ميسي نجم إنتر ميامي الأمريكي، والذي يخطط لاتخاذ قرار مهم بشأن مستقبل نادي برشلونة.

ونشرت “Yahoo Sports” نقلاً عن قناة “ABC” أن ليونيل ميسي يرغب في المشاركة في انتخابات رئاسة نادي برشلونة العام المقبل.

وعلى الرغم من أن ليونيل ميسي لن يترشح شخصياً لرئاسة برشلونة إلا أن قائد البلوجرانا السابق يفكر في دعم أحد المرشحين لإزاحة الرئيس الحالي خوان لابورتا.

ومع ذلك لا يرغب نجم إنتر ميامي في دعم أي مرشح في انتخابات رئاسة نادي برشلونة ولن يتدخل إلا إذا رأى أن هناك فرصة واقعية للمرشح المنافس لخوان لابورتا للنجاح.

ومن المتوقع أن تجرى انتخابات برشلونة لعام 2026 بين 15 مارس و15 يونيو، وقد أكد خوان لابورتا نيته الترشح لولاية جديدة وقد يكون في مواجهة منافس غير متوقع وهو ميسي.

أقرأ أيضاً.. كانيزاريس: برشلونة ليس النادي المثالي للتعافي من الإصابات

وكان ليونيل ميسي قد دعم خوان لابورتا علناً قبل أربع سنوات ونصف وذهب للتصويت شخصياً مع ابنه تياجو لكن يبدو أن هذا الوضع مختلف تماماً الآن، وقد يلعب الأرجنتيني دوراً حاسماً في من منع عودة الرئيس الحالي إلى منصبه.

ولم ينس ليونيل ميسي إجباره على مغادرة برشلونة، بعد أن كانت أهم وعود خوان لابورتا الانتخابية في عام 2021 أنه سيقوم بتجديد عقد الأرجنتيني وقد تم الاتفاق بالفعل وكان ينتظر التوقيع قبل أن يرحل لباريس سان جيرمان بسبب أزمة مالية عقدت من تجديد عقده واعتبر ميسي وعائلته تراجع لابورتا خيانة لهم وقد انقطعت علاقتهما تماماً.

وتواصلت عدة شخصيات مع ميسي لمعرفة مدى استعداده للمشاركة في الانتخابات القادمة ورد بأنه لا يستبعد ذلك لكنه أوضح أنه لن ينتخب لابورتا، ولا يعارض الإعلان عن موقفه إذا وجد حملة انتخابية موثوقة وتنافسية تملك فرصة حقيقية للفوز.

وقد يصبح ليونيل ميسي عاملاً حاسماً في انتخابات برشلونة وقد ينتظر حتى الأيام الأخيرة من الحملة للتأثير على النتيجة في لحظة استراتيجية، ومع ذلك ستكون كل خطوة محسوبة بعناية إذا كانت ستؤدي فقط للفوز.