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Every batter who takes the field in the IPL is now having to go through a bat-gauge test. Here is why

Nagraj Gollapudi17-Apr-20255:00

Rayudu: Bat checks done on the field can affect batters’ focus

Why has the IPL started measuring bats all of a sudden during IPL 2025? That has become a significant question ever since April 13, when match officials began using a gauge to measure bats.While the IPL has not put out an official statement on the reasons, ESPNcricinfo has learned the move has been made with an eye on maintaining the balance between bat and ball and ensuring that batters do not derive an undue advantage from using bigger bats.Related

Essex hit out at 'stupid' ECB after club is docked points for illegal bat

Narine and Nortje's bats fail the gauge test in PBKS vs KKR game

It is understood that the move was initially discussed by key decision-makers of the IPL before it was ratified by the tournament governing council and formally introduced on April 13. While the IPL has checked bat dimensions in previous seasons, the process involved the fourth umpire measuring the bat dimensions on the day before the match, with players chosen at random. It did not matter, then, if the player would be part of the team on match day. And not all bats of the player were checked, which meant that a batter could have one bat tested and walk in with another on match day.Why now?To plug that loophole, the IPL decided during discussions at the start of the 2025 season that it would be better check bats during the match rather than during training. It is understood that some match officials had privately expressed concern over the size of some bats players had been using. So instead of being subjective and selective in their assessment, it was decided a better approach would be to uniformly check the legality of the bats of all players during a live match.Girish TS/ESPNcricinfo Ltd

It is understood that the IPL decided to adopt a rule that was originally used by the ECB. In 2018, the ECB introduced, as part of its domestic playing conditions, checks on bat sizes to make sure they conformed to Law 5 of the MCC’s Laws of Cricket, which restricts the thickness of bat edges to 4cm (1.56 inches), the overall depth of bats to 6.7cm (2.64 inches), and their width to 10.8cm (4.25 inches).How does the bat gauge work?The guage is a rectangular implement with a house-shaped cut-out through which the bottom part of the bat is inserted. The cut-out conforms to the bat dimensions permitted under Law 5, which is also part of the IPL playing conditions. To be deemed legal to use, the bat must be able to pass through the gauge, even if it has been fitted with “[p]ermitted coverings, repair material and toe guards, not exceeding their specified thicknesses”The gauge in use at the IPL to test bat sizes•ESPNcricinfo Ltd

When do the checks happen?It is understood that the IPL informed all teams before mandating the bat checks from April 13. Teams were also given bat gauges so their players could themselves check their bats before the match.On matchdays, on-field umpires carry a bat gauge each to assess the bat of the incoming batter. The fourth umpire is tasked with checking both openers’ bats at the start of each innings. Any bat was found exceeding the specified dimensions is marked and cannot be used during a match. In case a batter asks for a bat change, the new bat is also checked.So far, only two bats have failed the gauge test: they belonged to the Kolkata Knight Riders pair of Sunil Narine and Anrich Nortje.What are the sanctions?Just like the ECB has done, the IPL too has put the onus on players to ensure that their bats comply with Law 5. However, there is a significant difference when it comes to sanctions. The ECB has imposed severe sanctions for any breach, as Essex bitterly experienced during the 2024 County Championship season when they were docked 12 points after one of their batters used an oversized bat during the opening match of their season.The IPL has decided not to impose any sanction other than disallowing bats that have failed the gauge test. While the ECB’s bat checks are random, the IPL checks every bat that enters the field of play.It is understood that batters have been caught off-guard by the move. A tailender at a title-winning team was left in a spot when his entire set of bats, numbering seven or eight, failed to pass through the gauge. Such a situation could prove particularly tricky for overseas batters, particularly those whose bat manufacturers are based outside India.Specialist batters usually request manufacturers to design bespoke bats with custom measurements. In the past, since bat checks were only carried out at random by match officials, and usually only on the eve of the match, there was a certain amount of leeway for players to get away with measurements that exceeded permissible limits. Even if a bat or set of bats was rejected on training day, a player could still use a matchday bat that had never gone through the gauge.The IPL has decided to discourage such actions in the quest to maintain the balance between bat and ball.

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Leila Pereira tem sido duramente criticada pela torcida do Palmeiras por conta da falta de investimentos em reforços. As cobranças ficaram ainda mais fortes após a eliminação palmeirense na Copa do Brasil, na última quinta-feira (13), pelo São Paulo, em pleno Allianz Parque.

continua após a publicidadeRelacionadasPalmeirasInsatisfeita com a fase do time, torcida do Palmeiras poupa elenco e foca críticas na diretoriaPalmeiras15/07/2023PalmeirasPalmeiras assina primeiro contrato profissional com mais uma joia da basePalmeiras15/07/2023PalmeirasInternacional x Palmeiras: onde assistir ao vivo, escalações e desfalques do jogo pelo BrasileirãoPalmeiras15/07/2023

+ Veja tabela e classificação do Brasileirão-2023 clicando aqui

Desde que assumiu a presidência do clube alviverde, Leila investiu R$ 196 milhões na contratação de atletas. O valor total considera bonificações e até mesmo luvas pagas a jogadores que chegaram livres de contratos, como o goleiro Marcelo Lomba, o volante Jaílson e o atacante Rafael Navarro, que na última semana foi emprestado ao Colorado Rapids, dos Estados Unidos.

Além do trio, chegaram durante a atual administração palmeirense: o zagueiro Murilo, os volantes Atuesta e Richard Ríos, o meia Bruno Tabata, e os atacantes Artur, Flaco López e Merentiel. Desses, Tabata e Merentiel não estão mais no clube. Eles foram emprestados para o Qatar SC (QAT) e Boca Juniors (ARG), respectivamente.

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+ Internacional x Palmeiras: onde assistir, escalações e desfalques do jogo pelo Brasileirão

Os atletas que chegaram ao clube nesse período tiveram a indicação ou o aval da comissão técnica liderada pelo português Abel Ferreira.

Na apuração com pessoas próximas à presidente Leila Pereira, foi dito que a busca por reforços tem a participação ou o envolvimento dela apenas quando é necessário resolver as condições do contrato. A mandatária se preocupa com o quanto aquela determinada negociação pode ou não comprometer as finanças do clube.

Em entrevista coletiva concedida por Anderson Barros, diretor de futebol palmeirense, na última quinta-feira (13), após a eliminação do clube na Copa do Brasil para o São Paulo, ele destacou a dificuldade encontrada no mercado e declarou que a prioridade do Verdão é ter cautela para não fazer nada que possa prejudicar os cofres em médio e longo prazo.

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+ Insatisfeita com a fase do time, torcida do Palmeiras poupa elenco e foca críticas na diretoria

– Hojebuscamos um camisa 5, temos encontrado dificuldade, quando nosso setor de análise define, há uma série de variáveis, e nós buscamos. O clube nos cobra uma responsabilidade, mas dá uma certa condição para tal. Precisamos ter uma responsabilidade com aquilo que acreditamos ser o melhor para o Palmeiras. Nós temos que entender todo cenário para tomar a melhor decisão.

– Temos que ter tranquilidade, para não buscar por buscar. Queríamos um extremo, tivemos tranquilidade e contratamos o Artur. A precipitação te leva a tomar decisão, que leva a sua instituição pagar por muito tempo, optamos pelo equilíbrio para tomar a melhor decisão.

Até o momento, em 2023, as contratações do Palmeiras foram Artur, junto ao Bragantino, e Richard Ríos, junto ao Guarani. A janela de transferências para clubes brasileiros fecha no dia 2 de agosto.

Senior pro takes the reins as Somerset prepares for new era of women’s cricket

ESPNcricinfo staff03-Mar-2025

Sophie Luff will lead Somerset into the new era of women’s domestic cricket•Getty Images

Sophie Luff has been named as Somerset Women’s first professional captain, for the inaugural season of the new Women’s County competition.Luff, 31, played for Somerset’s age groups before making her debut for the senior women’s team in 2009. She has featured in 74 List A matches for the club, scoring 2330 runs at 43.14 with a highest score of 138 not out. She has also played in 68 T20 matches, scoring 1675 runs at 35.63.She previously captained the county side between 2017 and 2022, and was also an ever-present for the Taunton-based Western Storm, having been named captain in 2020.She was the first player to make 100 appearances for Storm and during that time scored over 1760 runs in List A cricket at 50.54 with a best of 157 not out. Her T20 record for Storm included 850 runs at 25.90 and a best of 78.The former England Academy, Development and Under-19 international has also represented Welsh Fire, London Spirit and Southern Brave in the Hundred.”It feels like I’ve really come home this winter,” Luff said. “I’m excited to be leading such a great group of girls, and to be able to do this at my home club and to become the first-ever professional captain gives me an unbelievable sense of achievement and fills me with pride.”Somerset County Cricket Club means an awful lot to me. I used to come here when I was young and watch the likes of Marcus Trescothick, and it’s where I fell in love with the game. I’ve been involved with the club for a very long time and this group has got the opportunity to set the standards for how we want Somerset Women to play.”This club has a tremendous history and has had some incredible captains over the years. To have my name on that list is incredibly special and is a real privilege.”Somerset Women Head Coach, Trevor Griffin, added: “Sophie has proved during the course of her career that she is a genuine leader both on and off the field. She has the respect of everyone in the dressing room and is a model professional. Her wealth of experience will prove invaluable alongside her outstanding understanding of the game.”Sophie is passionate about cricket and passionate about this club. Her genuine understanding of what it means to represent Somerset means that she will lead by example every time she takes to the field.”SCCC Director of Cricket, Andy Hurry added: “Sophie is very much a part of the DNA of women’s cricket in the region. She is an inspiration to her teammates and a role model for young cricketers across the South West. Her tenacity and will to win are second to none, and she possess an abundance of the necessary traits required to be a successful captain and leader.”

Glasgow Rangers head coach Russell Martin appears to be in a difficult position with his options at striker at Ibrox heading into next week’s transfer deadline.

After the 1-1 draw with St Mirren in the Scottish Premiership last time out, the Gers manager revealed that Hamza Igamane was unable to come off the bench to help the team.

Martin said: “He wouldn’t be on the bench if he’s not fit. So he said he’d done it warming up. We turned down a bid this week, but we’ll assess his injury and I have to trust Hamza so we’ll see what happens.”

The boss went on to speak about Cyriel Dessers’ situation, saying: “I think it happens in football, but I’ll go back to Cyriel (Dessers) again. He’s worked really hard to get fit, hasn’t quite been fit, he’ll probably be fit for Wednesday.

“So whilst he’s made it really clear what his intention would be or what his desire would be, there’s been no problem, none. He trains properly, performs with the team, been great, but everyone’s different.”

It has since been revealed that Lille have had an offer accepted for Igamane, who is now due to depart for £10.4m, which may explain recent links to Bojan Miovski.

Why Rangers are interested in Bojan Miovski

It was recently reported that the Gers are interested in a deal to sign the centre-forward from Girona on a season-long loan deal to bolster their squad.

Their interest in the Macedonia international could be connected to the interest in Dessers and Igamane from elsewhere ahead of next Monday’s transfer deadline, because an exit from Ibrox for either of them would leave the squad short in the striker department.

This is why the 26-year-old star arriving at Ibrox in the coming days could make a lot of sense for Rangers, because would slot into the centre-forward position and fill any hole that could be created by a departure for Igamane or Dessers, or both.

The Girona outcast is also be an attractive target for the Scottish Premiership giants because he is a proven performer in Scotland. During his two-year stint with Aberdeen, Miovski showed that he can score goals on a regular basis in the Scottish top-flight.

xG

15.60

17.08

xG on target

18.36

17.60

Goals

16

16

Shots on target

36

44

Chances created

27

23

Assists

2

2

As you can see in the table above, the left-footed marksman scored 32 goals in two league seasons with Aberdeen, who finished behind Rangers in both of those campaigns, and overperformed his xG when you take his xG on target into account.

These statistics show that he is almost guaranteed to be a reliable goalscorer for Rangers in the Premiership, because he has been there and done it in the division in two of the last three years.

However, on the flip side of it, a season-long loan deal for Miovski would only be delaying the need to sign a permanent replacement for Igamane or Dessers.

On top of that, the striker has only scored four goals in 25 matches for Giorna since the start of last season and would need to find his confidence in front of goal again, which may be a struggle in a Rangers team that is currently in a difficult place after three draws in three league games.

Earlier this month, it was reported that Rangers are one of a number of sides interested in a deal to sign Villarreal’s £4m-rated centre-forward Karl Etta Eyong to bolster their attacking options.

Transfer Focus

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

It was also reported that the Gers were in talks with Villarreal over a potential permanent deal for the forward, although there has not been any recent updates on that, and he could be an even better signing than Miovski.

Why Rangers should sign Karl Etta Eyong

Whilst Miovski has the potential, given his form for Aberdeen in the past, to be an exceptional addition to the squad in his own right, Etta Eyong could be a better signing because of his recent form and the structure of the possible transfer.

Signing the Villarreal star, who is only 21, on a long-term deal as part of a permanent transfer could be a much better move for the club than a short-term loan for Miovski, because it could sort out the team’s striker problem for multiple seasons, rather than just one.

By signing Etta Eyong, if all goes well, the Gers would not have to invest millions in another new striker next summer. Whereas, Miovski going back to Girona, or going elsewhere, at the end of his loan would mean that the Light Blues would be back at square one and needing to find another forward.

The Villarreal starlet’s performances at youth and senior level in Spain in the last 12 months or so also suggest that he could hit the ground running with confidence behind him, which may not be the case for Miovski due to his struggles in Spain.

Minutes

90

90

Shots on target

1

2

Goals

1

0

Key passes

0

2

Assists

0

1

Pass accuracy

80%

80%

Possession lost

4x

8x

As you can see in the table above, Etta Eyong has made a strong start to the current LaLiga campaign with a goal and an assist in two matches, with the assist coming against Miovski’s Girona side.

Meanwhile, the Macedonia international did not register a shot or a key pass in 45 minutes against Rayo Vallecano before being left out of the squad for the defeat to Etta Eyong’s Villarreal, per Sofascore.

The £4m-rated star, who was described as a “powerful” striker by writer Kai Watson, also scored 18 goals, finishing 25% of his chances, in 29 starts in the Spanish third tier for Villarreal’s B team in the 2024/25 campaign, which shows that he can also score goals consistently when given regular game time.

Etta Eyong scored goals against Leeds and Arsenal in pre-season before starting the LaLiga campaign on fire for Villarreal, and all of these statistics suggest that he has the quality to be a quality operator up front for Rangers.

Euro club make approach to sign Rangers flop who's worse than Igamane

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ByDan Emery Aug 26, 2025

This is why Etta Eyong would be an even better signing than Miovski for the Gers, because he is in-form and currently playing better in the same league, and would arrive on a permanent basis instead of as a loan player.

Should West Ham United supporters take encouragement from their team’s pre-season results?

Graham Potter’s team concluded the Premier League Summer Series with back-to-back victories, beating Everton 2-1 at Soldier Field and then Bournemouth 2-0 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with Niclas Füllkrug and Jarrod Bowen the scorers in Atlanta last Sunday.

That is certainly a good sign, given that the Irons are seemingly going to be reliant on Bowen and Füllkrug for goals, following the sale of Mohammed Kudus to Tottenham.

Callum Wilson has arrived on a free transfer from Newcastle, but the Hammers are certainly lacking attacking difference makers, so could they be about to sign up one of Britain’s brightest young talents?

West Ham's search for new forwards

West Ham certainly struggled for goals last season, a trend that could carry into the new campaign, as the table below documents.

West Ham players to score a goal 2024/25 season

Players

Goals

Still at the club?

Jarrod Bowen

14

Yes.

Tomáš Souček

9

Yes.

Lucas Paquetá

5

Yes.

Mohammed Kudus

5

No.

Niclas Füllkrug

3

Yes.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka

2

Yes.

Emerson Palmieri

2

No.

Carlos Soler

1

No.

Danny Ings

1

No.

Crysencio Summerville

1

Yes.

James Ward-Prowse

1

Yes

Michail Antonio

1

No.

All statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt

As documented, just five West Ham players scored three or more goals last season, one of which Kudus has already been sold, while there are rumours that Lucas Paquetá could be on the move too.

So, as they seek reinforcements, Sky Sports News reports that West Ham have “expressed an interest” in signing Ben Doak from Liverpool.

They note that Leeds United, Wolves and Everton have also been interested during this window, after Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace saw £20m bids rejected by the Reds in January.

Transfer Focus

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

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The Scotland international is unlikely to remain at Liverpool this month, actively ‘seeking regular first-team football’, so could he swap Merseyside for East London?

How Ben Doak would improve West Ham

Still only 19 years old, Doak has earned plenty of praise for his performances, both in a Scotland shirt but also during a loan spell at Middlesbrough last season.

Scotland manager Steve Clarke, who is not one to get overexcited about anything, labelled him a “big talent”, while his then-boss at Liverpool Jürgen Klopp noted that Doak is a “good dribbler” who is capable of using both feet.

Meantime, Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout is impressed by his “on-the-ball bravery and unpredictability”, forecasting that he is “on track” to become a Premier League star of the future.

So, let’s take a closer look at his statistics on Teesside last season.

Ben Doak at Middlesbrough in numbers

Statistics

Doak 2024/25

Championship rank

Appearances

24

284th

Minutes

1,778

219th

Goals

3

100th

Assists

7

7th

Assists per 90

0.35

3rd

Expected assists per 90

0.23

11th

Shots on target %

51.9%

6th

Shot-creating actions per 90

4.15

14th

Goal-creating actions per 90

0.56

11th

Attempted take-ons

99

16th

Progressive carries

134

4th

Carries into the penalty area

80

1st

All statistics courtesy of FBref.com

As the table documents, despite limited minutes, largely due to a season-ending thigh injury suffered in January, Doak ranked highly for the majority of attacking metrics included when compared to his EFL Championship counterparts.

His dribbling statistics are particularly impressive, most notably ending up fourth for progressive carries and first for carries into the opposition’s penalty area.

So, does this make him reminiscent of a West Ham star from around the turn of the new millennium?

Joe Cole began his senior career at West Ham, before departing to join London rivals Chelsea in 2003, returning to the Boleyn Ground for one season a decade later.

Across both spells, Cole scored 18 goals and registered eight assists for the Hammers, with Tom Mason of The Guardian asserting that he was ‘breathtaking’ when he first broke into the first team, adding that, in his prime, Cole’s ‘creativity, flair, technical ability and vision’ was amongst the best in the world.

Well, Doak boasts similar traits, characteristics and levels of ability and potential, possesing that Cole-like knack for being able to take a game by the scruff of the neck.

So could the young Scot thrive in East London? Well, like a young Cole before him, there have even been claims that the young Scot is a “generational talent”.

One thing is for certain, the talented teenager would represent a massive coup for West Ham, given that he has the potential to be even better than ex-Iron Cole ever was, which is high praise indeed, in the future.

Related He's Haaland-esque: West Ham interested in "phenomenal" £22m Wilson upgrade

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After officially announcing the arrival of Lucas Perri, Leeds United have reportedly launched an improved bid in an attempt to sign their eighth fresh face of the window.

Perri: Leeds move a “great opportunity”

When assessing his squad following promotion last season, a new goalkeeper would have been among Daniel Farke’s top priorities following the struggles that Ilan Meslier faced.

As such, names such as Caoimhin Kelleher and Djordje Petrovic were both mentioned in the early stages of the transfer window, only for both goalkeepers to seal moves to Brentford and Bournemouth respectively. But that didn’t end Leeds’ search, as they quickly turned their focus towards Perri, who has now been signed and delivered.

After putting pen to paper, the former Lyon shot-stopper told the official club website: “It was a really exciting moment for me. I was really, really glad that the club showed interest. It was incredible. To sign here I am very, very happy.

“From the videos I saw the goal celebrations, especially this last game of the season, which was an away game, and saw the parade for the Championship title and the atmosphere at Elland Road.

“I watched the Premier League since I was really young and to see all the goalkeepers that have been in the Premier League that have been successful in the Premier League, they were incredible goalkeepers.

“I think it is a great challenge for me, a great opportunity, and I am really happy and focused to be my best version here. I want to feel the atmosphere, to see the fans and the stadium. I think it will be an incredible opportunity and an incredible stadium to play in.”

Meanwhile, with another priority signing now ticked off the list, the 49ers have now set their sights on securing a talented attacking reinforcement.

Leeds launch "improved" Paixao offer

According to Fabrizio Romano, Leeds have now launched an “improved” offer to sign Igor Paixao from Feyenoord this summer.

Elland Road chiefs are now pushing to secure a deal as soon as possible, with reports suggesting that Feyenoord are demanding as much as £35m to sell their star winger.

Negotiations may not be about to get any simpler, however. As reported by Sky Sports’ Anthony Joseph, the Whites are ready to pay £28m, but have been unable to come to an agreement to sign Feyenoord’s South American winger.

£35m may seem like a steep valuation, but a closer look at Paixao’s numbers suggest that he would more than pay that back in the form of goal involvements next season.

If the Brazilian completes a move and goes on to replicate his Feyenoord form at Elland Road, then Farke would instantly have a new leading talisman at his disposal.

Leeds initiate talks with "outstanding" star who "will" leave his club

The Whites face competition for his signature.

1 ByTom Cunningham Jul 26, 2025

Praised for his “insane” ball-striking ability by analyst Ben Mattinson, Paixor managed 37 goal involvements last season and could now be joining a Leeds side which already ended their promotion campaign on 95 goals.

The win boosted West Indies’ net run rate to 1.154 and they’re now on the top of Group B table

Madushka Balasuriya06-Oct-2024West Indies romped to a six-wicket victory over Scotland to secure their first win of the T20 World Cup in Dubai with 50 balls to spare. The win boosted their net run rate to 1.154 and they’re now on the top of Group B table. The result leaves Scotland with two defeats in as many games, though the margin of defeat could prove even more dire to their qualification chances.Qiana Joseph’s 31 off 18 spearheaded what was a middling chase, before Deandra Dottin (28 off 15) and Chinelle Henry (18 off 10) finished the game off in haste. It was a win set up by the bowlers, as West Indies restricted Scotland to 99 for 8.Henry was named Player of the Match for her burst at the top of Scotland’s innings which yielded figures of 1 for 10, before her boundary-laden knock ensured a brisk victory.Scotland were simply second-best in all the areas that mattered with only Kathryn Bryce and Ailsa Lister with any innings of note. With the ball, meanwhile, they picked up wickets and caught much better than their opponents but were unable to stem the flow of runs – the most crucial factor when aiming to defend such a low total.West Indies dominate the powerplayScotland were 25 for 2 at the end of the powerplay, but it might have been much worse if not for West Indies’ profligacy in their catching. While the now infamous ‘ring of fire’ floodlights can be partially to blame, three chances of varying difficulty were spilt in the opening six overs.Thankfully for the West Indies, Henry was putting on a clinic in swing bowling to make sure Scotland weren’t able to capitalise on their multiple lifelines.In her first over she had Sarah Bryce edging high to first slip, where Hayley Matthews could only palm over and she followed that up with two consecutive maidens – including a wicket maiden, where she had Bryce completely foxed by an outswinger that rattled her off stump.Spinners throttle run flow Kathryn survived a tight lbw decision while Lister was dropped twice. They put these second chances to good use in stitching together a 46-run third-wicket stand. However at no point were either afforded easy runs.Afy Fletcher celebrates a wicket•Getty ImagesTheir stand saw just one boundary scored, with both players forced to find the gaps and run hard between the wickets to keep the scoreboard ticking along.It looked as if a platform might have been set for a late launch, but then the wickets began to fall. Afy Fletcher dismissed Lister and Priyanaz Chatterji in consecutive deliveries in the 13th over, before removing Kathryn in her next over. Scotland stumbled to 76 for five at the end of 15 overs, and they managed only a further 23 runs in the remaining five overs, as the West Indies refused to give an inch.The Qiana Joseph experimentIf this tournament has shown anything, it’s not to judge a total or a pitch until both sides have batted. The other thing is that finding quick runs at the death is exceedingly difficult. Taking both these factors into account, West Indies opted to promote Qiana Joseph up the order after Stafanie Taylor had fallen early.Joseph’s intent was clear from the get-go, swinging and missing at a series of deliveries off Bryce. But with such a low target, each blow had an exponential impact. In all, she struck three fours and a six, but her 18-ball stay had seen as much as 31% of the target wiped off.Dottin does the jobWhen Joseph fell, West Indies still needed 41 runs for victory, and the prevailing mood was that one or two more wickets might have made the going a little trickier, particularly as Scotland were catching well.But Dottin the veteran showed she could carry on her recent franchise form, as she made light work of what might have been a banana skin of a finish. Her 15 deliveries in the middle brought with it two sixes and fours apiece, as West Indies sealed a win.

The Club World Cup might be a mixed bag for Chelsea at the moment, but next season looks rather exciting.

Enzo Maresca will lead his side into the Champions League for the first time, and be hoping for an even better finish in the Premier League.

The best way for the club to help him with that quest is by delivering him the right players over the coming weeks and months, and while they’ve made a good start, there is still plenty of work to do.

Fortunately, the Blues continue to be linked to dangerous forward Hugo Ekitiké, and if recent reports are to be believed, they are now closing in on another attacker who’d be a dream teammate for him.

Chelsea move for attacking reinforcements

The links between Chelsea and Ekitike first started to pop up around late March of this year while he was scoring for fun for German outfit Eintracht Frankfurt.

Transfer Focus

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

The links then quieted down for a couple of months before resurfacing again this summer, and based on stories from earlier this month, the club have been in talks to sign the Frenchman for around £84m.

There are, of course, other teams vying with the West Londoners for the forward’s signature, with Liverpool one of the more notable competitors, but if the last twenty years have taught us anything, it’s that the Pensioners are good at getting who they want.

However, while the prospect of signing the Frankfurt poacher is certainly exciting, it looks like the Blues are now closing in on another talented attacker from the Bundesliga.

At least, that’s according to a recent report from transfers expert Fabrizio Romano, who has claimed that Chelsea have reached an agreement on personal terms with Jamie Gittens.

However, that does not mean the transfer is sorted, as the Italian journalist reaffirms that an agreement with Borussia Dortmund is yet to be reached.

While Romano does not mention how much the German side want for the dynamic winger, reports from earlier this week revealed that a fee of around £55m could do the trick.

It’s a lot of money, but given Gittens’ ability and potential, this is a transfer Chelsea should be fighting for, especially as he’d be incredible alongside Ekitike.

Why Gittens would be a dream teammate for Ekitike

This was well and truly Ekitike’s breakout year for Frankfurt, as while he’s been good in campaigns prior, he was near enough unstoppable at points for the German outfit this season.

For example, in 48 appearances, totalling 3644 minutes, the young Frenchman was able to score 22 goals and provide 12 assists, which comes out to a brilliant average of a goal involvement every 1.41 games, or every 107.17 minutes.

So, with that said, why would Gittens help get even more out of him? There are two primary reasons, and the first is the Englishman’s output.

Across all competitions this season, the most productive, primarily left-sided winger at Chelsea was Jadon Sancho, who managed to produce 15 goal involvements in 41 games but has returned to Manchester United.

After that, it was Mykhaylo Mudryk, who looks unlikely to feature for some time, and then in third is youth product Tyrique George.

Appearances

49

42

15

25

Minutes

2803′

2426′

849′

1131′

Goals

12

5

3

2

Assists

5

10

5

5

Goal Involvements per Match

0.34

0.35

0.53

0.28

Minutes per Goal Involvements

164.88′

161.73′

106.12′

161.57′

So, in short, somehow, the West Londoners have found themselves looking short on numbers and quality when it comes to out-and-out left-wingers, which are two issues solved by the Dortmund star, as he racked up 17 goal involvements in just 2803 minutes across 49 games this season.

So, it’s not unrealistic to think that he could both help provide the Frankfurt ace with more goalscoring opportunities and get on the end of the chances he creates as well.

Finally, on top of the output, the 20-year-old “difference-maker,” as dubbed by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, also has some genuinely impressive underlying numbers that could be useful for his potential new teammate.

According to FBref, he sits in the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues for successful take-ons and shot and goal-creating actions from take-ons and then the top 2% for take-ons attempted, all per 90.

This shows that not only is the youngster someone who likes to try and make things happen by himself, but someone who is capable of doing that, and if he’s constantly creating opportunities from out wide, then there will be more space for Ekitike to operate down the middle.

Ultimately, Chelsea should be looking to sign the Frankfurt goal machine, but if they want to get more out of him and dramatically improve their left-hand side, they should sign Gittens alongside him.

Chelsea ready to offer £80k-p/w ace in exchange for "amazing" 17 G/A star

The Blues could have a transfer trick up their sleeve.

BySean Markus Clifford Jun 24, 2025

Manchester United’s business this summer is already in full flow, after Matheus Cunha was announced as their first signing ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

The Red Devils forked out a whopping £62.5m for the Brazilian international, who registered 15 goals and six assists in the Premier League this campaign.

However, whilst it may seem like a hefty figure, it’s an excellent deal for a player who can change the club’s fortunes, after a dismal spell in front of goal over the last couple of months – scoring just 44 league goals in 2024/25.

Ruben Amorim doesn’t appear to be done there though, with a striker still high on his list of priorities, leading to numerous names mentioned over a move to Old Trafford.

Liam Delap was seen as the number one target before his subsequent move to join Chelsea, resulting in a shift of focus, with numerous of Europe’s elite still on their radar.

The latest on United’s hunt for a new striker this summer

Over recent weeks, numerous top-level talismen have been mentioned as options for United, as Amorim looks to land the goalscorer who can catapult the club back up the table next season.

Victor Osimhen, Viktor Gyokeres and Hugo Ekitiké have all been mentioned as potential options for the Red Devils, with no deals yet completed for any of the aforementioned stars.

However, that same can’t be said elsewhere, as they appear to be making a move for Juventus star Dušan Vlahović, that’s according to the latest report from FootballTransfers.

They claim that Amorim’s side have entered talks with the Italian outfit over a move for the striker, who currently earns £315k-per-week, according to Capology.

It also states that he’s keen on a move to join United this summer, seeing the switch as an opportunity to take his career to the next level, with a Premier League move the dream for the Serbian.

Why Vlahovic would be United’s answer to Haaland

Erling Haaland has been one of the Premier League’s leading talismen over the last couple of years, often causing United a whole host of problems in the process.

The Norwegian joined Manchester City back in the summer of 2022 from Borussia Dortmund, subsequently going on to score 121 times in his 142 appearances for Pep Guardiola’s men.

He’s managed to score six times in his eight appearances against the Red Devils, including a hat-trick in the 6-3 rout at the Etihad back in the 2023/24 campaign.

Given his record, most sides across England’s top-flight must wish they had their own version of the talisman, with Amorim potentially able to do just that with Vlahovic.

The 25-year-old has been labelled as a similar player to the City star by FBref, with hope that he can transfer his skillset over to Old Trafford should he move in the coming months.

When comparing their respective figures from the 2024/25 campaign, the Serbian has managed to outperform in numerous key areas, showcasing what an amazing addition he would be this window.

Vlahovic, who’s been labelled “world-class” by one analyst, has registered more progressive carries and more progressive passes per 90 in 2024/25, showcasing his all-round nature with the ball in attacking areas.

Games played

29

31

Goals scored

10

22

Progressive carries

1.4

0.8

Progressive passes

1.2

0.6

Aerials won

2

1.8

Fouls won

0.9

0.4

Take-on success

42%

36%

He’s also won more aerials per 90 and drawn more fouls, subsequently offering Amorim a huge focal point at the top end of the pitch, something which he’s craved since his appointment.

The Juve star has also completed more of the take-ons he’s attempted, able to play off the shoulder or even drop deeper and complete a mazy run past the opposition.

Such a move would likely cost the club a hefty whack in wages, but it’s one that could hand the side the needed attacking threat they’ve lacked this season.

If he manages to reach the levels produced by Haaland over recent years, it would be a sensational pick-up and one that could catapult the side back up the table.

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Manchester United may be about to make a huge mistake in selling one first-team star.

2 ByEthan Lamb Jun 17, 2025

Everton are set to embark on an exciting new era at Bramley-Moore Dock and could make a bargain signing to kick off their summer business, according to a report.

Everton preparing for summer of mass changes

David Moyes has comfortably ensured top-flight survival for Everton and has managed to revive a squad that has plenty of uncertainty hanging over it heading into the summer.

With the Toffees set to say farewell to Goodison Park, key figures such as Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Seamus Coleman and Ashley Young are yet to commit to extensions, while several loanees find themselves in limbo.

Abdoulaye Doucoure has commented on his future at the club, stirring debate among supporters, stating: “There’s not been any talks so far with Everton. I think personally, I don’t wait for them to give me a contract or not, because my contract is finished. I already have some proposals on the table, to be honest, and I think in the next three weeks, I will have to take my decision — whether I stay or not.”

Clearly, Moyes has plenty of work to do in the market before his squad is in ideal shape for next season. Ipswich Town pair Liam Delap and Omari Hutchinson have emerged as Everton targets, offering an inkling of the direction his recruitment strategy could take.

Burnley’s Josh Brownhill could join the Toffees on a free transfer, which would be a wise move in the face of PSR regulations, which could otherwise create problems in a moment of positivity.

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Posts ByBrett Worthington May 8, 2025

Tapping into that theme, another star from the EFL Championship may also arrive this summer without the Toffees having to spend a penny in transfer fees.

Everton want to land Leeds United full-back Junior Firpo

According to Everton News, as per journalist Graeme Bailey, Junior Firpo could make a surprise move to Everton this summer on a free transfer once his contract expires at Leeds United.

While Spain is thought to be his preference, Everton appear to be at the front of the queue if the defender opts to remain in England.

Labelled “immense” by Conor McGilligan, the Dominican Republic international has registered four goals and 10 assists this campaign, playing a major role in the Whites’ promotion back to the top flight.

Similar players to Junior Firpo (FBref)

Ricardo Chavez Soto

Monterrey

Ryan Hollingshead

Los Angeles FC

Jesus Gallardo

Toluca

Anton Gaaei

Ajax

Juan Sanabria

Atletico San Luis

Earning £60,000 per week at Elland Road, it is said that Firpo also has admirers from Spain, where he came through the ranks at Real Betis before joining Barcelona back in 2019.

Previously, the Santo Domingo-born defender struggled with life in the Premier League under Marcelo Bielsa, but he has been a key attacking force down the left flank this term and appears primed for another tilt at the top flight.

Now, Everton’s task is to put forward a convincing argument that they are a better proposition than Leeds in the long run. Given their newfound stability, they stand a good chance of winning the race for his signature.