O futuro de Wellington está cada vez mais distante do São Paulo. O atleta de 23 anos recusou duas propostas de renovação, e o Tricolor deve retomar a busca por um lateral-esquerdo.
continua após a publicidadeRelacionadasMercado do EsporteSão Paulo fecha acordo para impulsionar plataforma de streaming do clubeMercado do Esporte15/03/2024Fora de CampoPVC alerta para risco da ‘guerra’ do Choque-Rei e revela clima nos clubes: ‘Se a final for Palmeiras e São Paulo, nós vamos brigar’Fora de Campo14/03/2024PalmeirasLeila Pereira, presidente do Palmeiras, ataca ‘pedido de desculpas falso’ do São PauloPalmeiras14/03/2024
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Wellington tem vínculo com o São Paulo até o final da temporada e pode assinar pré-contrato com qualquer clube em julho. O Internacional monitora a situação do atleta e pode tirá-lo de graça do Tricolor.
+ Revanche? Ganhe mais de R$450 na vitória do Corinthians sobre o São Bernardo
Ciente de que pode perder um titular, a diretoria são-paulina não vem tendo sucesso na contratação de um jogador para a posição. Marlon, do Cruzeiro, despertou interesse, mas o atleta está próximo de renovar com a Raposa.
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SOLUÇÃO CASEIRA
A comissão técnica de Tiago Carpini avalia que Patrick, da base, ainda não está pronto para assumir a titularidade na posição. Assim, uma alternativa avaliada é colocar Moreira, lateral-direito de origem, para ser o substituto de Wellington. O garoto se colocou à disposição para desempenhar a função
Rangers invested heavily in the summer but, given their current predicament, expect plenty more signings in January too.
During the summer transfer window, led by manager Russell Martin and sporting director Kevin Thelwell, the Gers signed 13 new players, splashing around £30m, a huge amount for a Scottish club.
The most expensive of these additions was striker Youssef Chermiti, arriving from Everton for £8m which could rise to £10m, their second-most expensive signing of all-time, but the Gers still appear light in attack, so could new manager Danny Röhl demand the addition of a new centre-forward he knows rather well.
Rangers' search for reinforcements
Even before appointing out-of-work Röhl, Rangers had taken advantage of Sheffield Wednesday’s predicament, signing winger Djeidi Gassama for a cut-price £2.2m in July.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The EFL Championship club entered administration this week, usually a dark day for any football club, but on this occasion it was a day of celebration, because it means Dejphon Chansiri is no longer running the club.
Supporters rushed to Hillsborough to buy tickets and merchandise, having been boycotting both, but there are serious ramifications, given that the Owls were slapped with a 12-point deduction, more could follow for failing to pay staff, meaning relegation to EFL League One appears inevitable, while a new owner still has to be found, all why Röhl walked away in July.
Thus, for as long as the administrators remain in charge, their task is to raise as much cash as possible, which includes selling players.
As a result, Sports Boom are reporting that Röhl is targeting a move for Sheffield Wednesday striker Bailey Cadamarteri, with the new boss telling the Glasgow side to put together ‘a proposed deal” for the youngster.
They add that Röhl is ‘eager to bolster his attacking options’, while adding that the German coach was an ‘influential figure in Cadamarteri’s development’, thereby potentially set to take advantage of the financial crisis in South Yorkshire by snapping up a bargain
So, could the 20-year-old soon be swapping Owlerton for Govan?
What Bailey Cadamarteri would bring to Rangers
Born in Leeds, Cadamarteri joined Sheffield Wednesday as an eight year old, making his senior debut in the EFL Trophy against Leicester City’s under-21s in October 2022.
He did not then feature for the Owls’ first team again for over a year, largely due to surgery, handed his league debut by Röhl against Millwall in November 2023, before scoring his first senior goal during a 3-1 victory over Blackburn Rovers a few weeks later.
He then also netted against Norwich, QPR and Swansea, before spending last season on loan at Lincoln City, scoring eight times in 31 outings for the Imps, his campaign at Sincil Bank cut short by a groin injury suffered mid-way through the season.
Now back at Sheffield Wednesday, given that many of the Owls’ senior players departed during the summer due to financial turmoil, he has started nine of their 12 EFL Championship matches, with the table below documenting his importance to Henrik Pedersen’s side.
Cadamarteri’s stats 25/26
Stats
Cadamarteri
Sheff Wed rank
Minutes
838
7th
Goals
1
4th
Expected goals
1.8
2nd
Shots
20
1st
Shots on target
5
2nd
Big chances missed
2
1st
Key passes
6
5th
Attempted take-ons
23
2nd
Touches in box
39
1st
Stats vs FBref & SofaScore
As the table emphasises, Cadamarteri has been an integral figure for Wednesday this season, scoring during a 2-2 draw with Wrexham at the Racecourse in August.
He has though had the most shots of any Wednesday player, missing two Opta-defined big chances, while over 18% of his total touches have come in the opposition penalty area, showing that he offers an attacking presence.
Meantime, the 20-year-old has also made an interesting choice when it comes to international football.
After representing England at youth level, he switched his allegiance to Jamaica earlier this year, debuting for the Reggae Boyz in Bermuda in September, scoring against Trinidad & Tobago in Kingston a few days later.
Thus, if Steve McClaren’s team collect four points from their two qualifiers in November, again Trinidad & Tobago and then Curaçao, they’ll be heading for a first World Cup since France ’98, which could give Cadamarteri a platform to increase his exposure and market value, currently valued at around £1.1m by Football Transfers.
Ali Maxwell labels the young striker a “finisher” while Röhl, when the pair were still together in South Yorkshire, described him as “dangerous”.
A report by Total Football Analysis agrees, noting that he ‘consistently moves around to find pockets of space’, while praising his ability to ‘occupy spaces intelligently’ and excellent penalty box positioning.
Thus, it is clear that Cadamarteri is a talented young player, one who could well be available for a slashed price, while he may be eager to re-untie with Röhl north of the border.
Summer signing Chermiti has scored only once for Rangers to date, his first goal for anyone since May 2023, looking very unconvincing overall, while fellow centre-forwards Danilo and Bojan Miovski have only two goals to their name so far this season.
Given the dearth of quality in Rangers’ striker department, the young Jamaican international could come in and be first-choice from the word go, firing the Gers up the table.
Rohl could now turn "exciting" Rangers star into his own Shankland at Ibrox
Following Rangers’ 3-1 home win over Kilmarnock on Sunday, has Danny Röhl unearthed an “exciting” attacker who could be their own Lawrence Shankland?
England allrounder set to feature on white-ball tour to country where he grew up
Matt Roller03-Oct-2024Jacob Bethell is targeting a spot in England’s Champions Trophy squad through performances on their white-ball tour to the Caribbean – and joked that he is hoping to avoid being booed when he plays against West Indies in Barbados, where he grew up.Bethell, who turns 21 this month, made his T20I and ODI debuts against Australia in September and felt as though his first taste of international cricket “reaffirmed that I was ready” to make the step up. He kept his place in both squads for the Caribbean tour, which comprises three ODIs and five T20Is and includes three fixtures at Kensington Oval at the start of November.”That’s where my heritage is, so all my friends have already bought tickets,” Bethell said at the cinch PCA awards, where he was pipped to the Young Player of the Year trophy by Jamie Smith. “They’ll be in the stands waiting for me when I get there. I’m slightly worried about how the West Indian fans are going to accept me.Related
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“I’m hoping I don’t get booed too much. I’ve seen Steve Smith in his last few games and every time he walks out to bat, it’s like the end of the world. I’m hoping that’s not the case in the West Indies! I’m only saying that as a joke: there’s a whole lot of support coming around so I can’t imagine it’s going to be anything but that.”Bethell was born and raised in Barbados but moved to the UK aged 12, attending Rugby School on a sports scholarship. He is one of three players in England’s 14-man squad with links to Barbados, along with Phil Salt – who attended Harrison College, the same school as Bethell, while living there as a teenager – and Jofra Archer, who was born and raised there.After the tour, Bethell will head to Australia to play for Melbourne Renegades in the BBL, and hopes that he will remain part of England’s white-ball plans. “There’s obviously the India series for England [from January] and the Champions Trophy, which is something I’ll be looking to put in performances in the West Indies to then get selected for,” he said.Bethell’s first seven international appearances were a mixed bag. He hit 44 off 24 at Cardiff – which included 20 runs off four balls facing Adam Zampa – and helped to square the T20I series in partnership with Liam Livingstone, but had a quieter time in the ODIs, with 85 runs and four wickets across five matches as England’s No. 7.He found the experience “full on” but felt “at home” against Australia’s bowlers, who included Zampa, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. “You’re ‘on’ all the time,” Bethell said. “I found it hard to switch off at times, but on the whole, it was pretty much everything I expected. It’s hard cricket, mixed around busy travel and a lot of off-field expectations.”A perfect example is Southampton: we were staying on the ground, and you’re sleeping 50 yards away from where you’re walking out to bat, so I found it quite hard to switch off then.”One thing that was really pleasing was you see the level. You’re playing against the top players in the world – and obviously [50-over] world champions – but it was a level that I didn’t feel uncomfortable at, especially with the bat. I felt really at home, so it just kind of reaffirmed that I was ready for it, and ready for what’s to come.”He will predominantly play white-ball cricket this winter, but Bethell’s aspirations extend across all formats. “It’s nice to tick off two of them, but definitely the best one is yet to come – hopefully,” he said. “Test cricket has always been my dream. I know it’s taken a different shape in the last three years but definitely, that’s still my dream: to play Test cricket for England.”At the minute, I’m still very adaptable in red-ball. I haven’t really found a place where I’ve gone, ‘Right, this feels like home’ in terms of a place in the batting order, but I think that could be anywhere from opening the batting to No. 7 – especially with bowling offspin, I’m hoping that I can get into a team being a genuine allrounder.”
Gabriel Jesus has addressed growing speculation over a possible return to Palmeiras, insisting no contact has been made and stressing that any decision about his future will be taken “with Arsenal.” After nine months out recovering from major knee surgery, the Brazilian has made it clear that a January exit is not an option, reaffirming his commitment to fighting for his place under Mikel Arteta.
Jesus linked with Palmeiras return
Jesus moved to cool talk of an imminent exit after reports in Brazil suggested he was considering a January return to Palmeiras, the club where he first rose to prominence. The Arsenal striker, who has only recently resumed training following a nine-month absence with a serious knee injury, reiterated that there have been no negotiations and that his current focus is solely on regaining his place in the Gunners’ squad. With competition for attacking positions intensifying at the Emirates, his comments arrive at a crucial moment as speculation continues to swirl about his long-term role in Arteta’s plans.
The 28-year-old spent part of his rehabilitation in Brazil during the Premier League off-season, using Palmeiras’ training facilities to complete key stages of his recovery. That time back home fuelled narratives about an early comeback to the Brazilian league, but Jesus has insisted that such interpretations overlook the reality of his long layoff and the need for a stable environment as he rebuilds match fitness. With Arsenal battling on multiple fronts, the striker is determined to re-establish himself before entertaining any thoughts about the next chapter of his career.
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Brazilian will 'decide' future 'with Arsenal'
Jesus’ interview with Revista Placar made headlines in both England and Brazil, largely due to his candid tone and firm dismissal of transfer rumours. The forward has long spoken warmly about Palmeiras, and his admiration resurfaced publicly, but he clarified that any future return would be a deliberate joint decision with Arsenal rather than a reactionary move after injury.
Speaking emphatically about recent rumours, Jesus stated: “There was never contact with another club. My wish, as I always say, is to return to Palmeiras. And Palmeiras also want me to come back.”
Reflecting on the timing of a possible return to Brazil, Jesus added: “When I feel it’s the right time to go back to Palmeiras, I’ll decide that with Arsenal.” He also addressed the realities of returning from a serious injury, explaining: “But we’re talking about a player who has been out for nine months and is now fighting to return to the team. Some journalists speak without any basis.”
Jesus then shut down suggestions that he might leave in the upcoming window, saying: “After such a complex surgery, it makes no sense for me to leave the club now.”
Getty Images Sport
Gyokeres' arrival put Jesus further down the Arsenal pecking order
Jesus’ Arsenal journey has been defined by an explosive beginning followed by persistent injuries that derailed his role as the club’s first-choice centre-forward. His early contribution transformed Arteta’s attack during the 2022–23 Premier League title push, but recurring knee issues — including an ACL rupture in January 2025 — repeatedly halted his momentum and forced Arsenal to reassess their long-term planning in the forward department.
The summer arrival of Viktor Gyokeres, alongside competition from Kai Havertz and a strengthened attacking midfield unit, has threatened Jesus’ place in the squad. Arteta still values the Brazilian’s versatility and pressing intelligence, often highlighting the tactical flexibility he provides when deployed wide or centrally. However, with Arsenal competing for major trophies and now boasting greater attacking depth, Jesus’ ability to remain consistent and available will play a defining role in determining his future at the club.
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Jesus certain to stay at Arsenal past winter window
Jesus’ contract situation adds another layer to the discussion. His deal runs until 2027, meaning Arsenal are under no pressure to sell, but his high wages and injury record pose legitimate considerations as the Gunners shape their squad around younger, more durable options. While a future move to Palmeiras is widely expected, both the player and the club understand that his return to Brazil is more a matter of timing than desire — and that time is not January 2026.
For the remainder of the season, Jesus’ priority is crystal clear: regain full fitness, build rhythm and fight for minutes in a competitive Arsenal forward line. With the Gunners pushing toward domestic and European targets, his experience and multifaceted skillset could still play an important role across a long campaign.
As for Palmeiras, the Brazilian giants remain patient yet eager admirers, monitoring Jesus’ condition while respecting his current obligations in North London. A summer move in 2026, or even 2027, appears far more likely than a mid-season switch, particularly given the player’s insistence on stability during his recovery.
Newcastle United are now reportedly keeping close tabs on a “generational” star who could be ready to complete a big move to the Premier League in 2026.
Howe heaps praise on "relentless" Newcastle in Fulham victory
Following a routine victory over Benfica in the Champions League, Newcastle were once again made to work for a result in the Premier League.
The Magpies, who had won just twice in eight league games in the build-up, desperately needed to find a way past Fulham on Saturday and did just that courtesy of Bruno Guimaraes’ last-gasp winner.
Having his say on the much-needed win, Eddie Howe told reporters: “It was end-to-end. I thought it was a really attacking performance from both teams; both teams were going for the win. We’re delighted to get it ourselves.
“I thought it was a really good last 20 minutes from us; we were relentless in our pursuit to try and win. Eventually, one of those chances fell for us. Those points are so precious, but you also carry forward the belief that you can win in any situation, even when it doesn’t look like you will.”
That said, celebrations from the weekend can’t last very long. Newcastle’s focus must instantly turn towards facing Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night. In search of defending their crown, the Magpies must find a way past an in-form side searching for more silverware, themselves.
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Given how important the Carabao Cup was to Newcastle’s season last time out, it will be interesting to see whether Howe chooses to rest players or field his strongest side in the competition. There’s no doubt that, with European football to balance with domestic duties, he must get things right.
Of course, adding another piece of silverware after last season would be no bad thing and it would certainly go a long way towards attracting the next generation of stars.
Newcastle keeping tabs on "generational" Monga
As reported by The Boot Room’s Graeme Bailey, Newcastle are now keeping tabs on Jeremy Monga as the Leicester City star continues to enjoy an impressive rise.
Still just 16 years old, Monga has already made more first-team appearances than Arsenal’s Max Dowman and Rio Ngumoha and is one of the most sought-after young players in English football.
It would represent a major coup if Newcastle managed to sign Monga ahead of Manchester City and they could even land a bargain deal for what would, in many ways, be their own version of Arsenal’s Dowman.
Leicester are unable to tie their teenage sensation down to a senior contract until he turns 17 next June, which means he could leave for a compensation fee rather than what would be a hefty transfer fee.
Arsenal are stacked in almost all areas of the pitch after a summer of lavish spending, but they could still potentially benefit from another option for the left-wing as they eye AC Milan star Rafael Leao.
Mikel Arteta’s attacking line has looked strong this season, especially with the additions of Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke and Viktor Gyokeres, but questions remain over the depth and certainty at left-wing.
Gabriel Martinelli, who is currently out injured, has made a real impact from the bench as Arsenal’s super-sub this season, though doubts remain over the Brazilian’s long-term future.
Arsenal 3-0 Nottingham Forest
Athletic Bilbao 0-2 Arsenal
Arsenal 1-1 Man City
Port Vale 0-2 Arsenal
Newcastle 1-2 Arsenal
Arsenal 2-0 Olympiacos
Arsenal 2-0 West Ham
Fulham 0-1 Arsenal
Arsenal 4-0 Atlético Madrid
Arsenal 1-0 Crystal Palace
Arsenal 2-0 Brighton
His contract expires in 2027 and there have been no reports of a potential extension, despite Andrea Berta moving to tie down the likes of Gabriel, William Saliba, Ethan Nwaneri, Myles Lewis-Skelly and actively talking to Bukayo Saka about a new long-term contract.
Leandro Trossard, who’s also contributed towards Arsenal’s brilliant run and scored the winner away to Fulham, presents some uncertainty too.
Like Martinelli, the 30-year-old’s contract runs out in 2027, with Trossard signing a new and improved deal recently which didn’t include an extension.
Eze can play on the left-wing when required, as he has done multiple times already this season in the Premier League, with the England international deployed there in Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Brighton in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday.
This frees up space for teenage sensations Max Dowman – who became Arsenal’s youngest ever starter against the Seagulls – and Ethan Nwaneri to play more centrally.
Arsenal’s youngest ever starters
First start
player
opponent
competition
age
Oct 2025
Max Dowman
Brighton
League Cup
15 years 302 days
Sep 2024
Jack Porter
Bolton
League Cup
16 years 72 days
Oct 2003
Cesc Fàbregas
Rotherham
League Cup
16 years 177 days
Sep 2008
Jack Wilshere
Sheff United
League Cup
16 years 266 days
While there is a case to be made that signing another left-winger could hinder Dowman and Nwaneri’s pathway to regular first team minutes, Berta must also think about shoring up the position with outside talent, as Martinelli and Trossard near the exit door.
Rafael Leao's stance on joining Arsenal as Berta eyes left-wing upgrade
According to TEAMtalk, Arsenal’s sporting director is doing just that, and they’re real fans of Leao.
The Portugal international has scored four goals in six games already this season, despite missing the opening of Milan’s campaign with a calf injury.
The Rossoneri are contenders for this year’s Serie A title after a fine start to 25/26, losing just one league game so far, and Leao will be key to their charge as Milan look to topple Antonio Conte’s Napoli.
The £108,000-per-week forward, who has a £132 million release clause in his deal, will cost a premium for any English side in January, but Arsenal view Leao as the “ideal left-wing upgrade”.
They’re also encouraged by his stance on a potential move to north London, as it is believed that Leao is “very open” to talks if a Premier League side formally approaches.
AC Milan's RafaelLeaobefore the match
While Leao loves Milan and is happy in his current surroundings, he’s “ready to listen” to a potential offer from England, as the Premier League holds great appeal to him.
The 26-year-old, who bagged 16 goal contributions for Milan in the top flight alone last year, was also their second-best player by average behind Christian Pulisic in 2024/2025 (WhoScored).
Leao completed more successful take-ons per 90 than any other player in Milan’s squad that campaign (WhoScored), so the appeal to Arsenal is obvious, but the question is just how much Berta would be willing to invest.
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Tottenham Hotspur are a club who are looking to reach the next level under the guidance of Thomas Frank, with the first-team making huge strides since his appointment.
The Dane has largely worked with the players already at his disposal in North London, but he has also delved into the transfer market to bolster his chances of success in the role.
He spent over £100m on new additions during his first window, with Mohammed Kudus already having a huge impact during his first handful of Premier League outings.
The Ghanaian may have cost £55m in the summer, but he’s been worth every penny, as seen by his tally of one goal and four assists – with the latter the joint-highest of any player in the division.
With the January transfer window rapidly approaching on the horizon, the board and manager will be hoping that any new additions could follow in the same vein in North London.
Spurs’ hunt for added signings in the January window
Over the last couple of weeks, a new striker has been firmly in Spurs’ sights, which has led to numerous names being linked with a winter move to join the Lilywhites.
Dušan Vlahović is just one name on their shortlist, with returning Sporting Director Fabio Paratici no doubt playing a key role given his previous stint at Juventus.
He’s not alone in their sights for a new talisman, as Porto star Samu Aghehowa is also another option, but he could be slightly realistic given the £87m release clause within his current contract.
Other areas of the pitch are also being subject to potential investment, with the winger department also one of interest – leading to Brentford star Kevin Schade being named as one target.
According to CaughtOffside, Paratici is already working on a potential deal for the German, who joined the Bees back in 2023 under Frank’s tenure at the helm.
Another report states that Keith Andrews’ side are reluctant to offload the 23-year-old in the coming months, but could listen to offers in the region of €55m (£48m) for his signature.
Why Spurs’ £48m target could end Johnson’s Spurs career
Brennan Johnson’s time at Spurs has been a rollercoaster to say the least, with the winger often a hugely inconsistent figure within the Spurs first-team.
He joined in a £47.5m deal from Nottingham Forest in the summer of 2023, but came under huge fire from the fanbase for his lack of impact in the first 12 months in North London.
However, his Europa League-winning goal and total of 18 efforts last year subsequently papered over the cracks of his career with the Lilywhites – as seen during the early stages of 2025/26.
The Welsh international has since dropped down the pecking order after Kudus’ arrival, often showing he can’t be relied upon to provide the goods by Frank.
His latest showing showcased his struggles, as Johnson scored the opener against FC Copenhagen, but was subsequently sent off for a rash tackle in the second half.
The manager will no doubt be disappointed with the winger after his actions in the Champions League, which in turn could only fuel rumours over a winter move to land Schade.
When comparing the German’s stats with those of Johnson from the ongoing campaign, he’s managed to outperform him in key areas, which could push the Welshman further down the pecking order.
Schade, who’s been labelled a “world-beater” by Dietmar Hamann, has already achieved a higher tally of combined goals and assists in the Premier League this season.
He’s also placed more of his shots on target so far in 2025/26, arguably making him a more efficient and effective option within in the final third for Frank in North London.
How Schade & Johnson compare in 2025/26
Statistics (per 90)
Schade
Johnson
Games played
10
10
Goals & assists
3
2
Shot on target accuracy
46%
40%
Key passes
1.2
0.7
Shot-creating actions
1.6
1.4
Take-on success
32%
25%
Carries into final third
1.1
0.7
Aerials won
2.8
0.4
Stats via FBref
The German’s talents are further reflected in his higher take-on success rate and tally of key passes completed per 90 – subsequently offering the Lilywhites a phenomenal creative outlet.
His creativity, coupled with his goalscoring prowes,s could make Schade an excellent addition, potentially putting an end to Johnson’s spell at the club as a result.
Frank’s previous stint working with the youngster could also hand the manager another reason to prioritise him over Johnson, with the Dane having the keys to unlocking Schade’s success.
At just 23, he has bags of time to improve in the years ahead, potentially replacing Johnson and playing a key role in any success during the Frank reign at Spurs.
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India legspinner Amit Mishra has announced his retirement from cricket at the age of 42. He played all forms of international cricket from 2003 to 2017 and finishes with 22 Tests, 36 ODIs and 10 T20Is. His last competitive fixture came for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2024.”I’ve played cricket for 25 years across three decades with legends like Sachin Tendulkar, under leaders like MS Dhoni, and with current stars like Rohit Sharma,” Mishra told PTI. “Now that I’m slowly stepping away, it’s emotional, of course. Cricket gave me everything – respect, identity, and purpose.”Not everyone gets a grand farewell or big press conference, and that’s okay. What matters to me is that I gave everything I had. I played with heart. I performed whenever I got the opportunity.”
Mishra played for four teams in the IPL: Delhi Daredevils (now Capitals), Deccan Chargers, Sunrisers Hyderabad and LSG. Apart from IPL 2022, he played all the other seasons of the tournament from 2008 to 2024. He finishes with 174 IPL wickets from 162 matches, which is eighth on the overall list. He also had the most hat-tricks (three) in the IPL – in 2008, 2011 and 2013.”I’d say the defining moment [in my IPL career] was the hat-trick I took in the 2008 IPL, where I also took five wickets in the match,” Mishra said. “From there, I made a comeback to the Indian team. Before that, I was consistently performing well in domestic cricket, taking 35-45 wickets every season, but I couldn’t get back into the national team.”That IPL hat-trick changed things for me. I had also performed well in Syed Mushtaq Ali the preceding year taking 25 wickets, which helped me get an IPL contract (with Delhi Daredevils).”After that hat-trick, I was back in the Indian team continuously and my career in T20 also started.”Mishra started his career with Haryana on the domestic circuit and made his first-class debut in 2000-01. He impressed with his classical legbreaks and he had an effective googly too. He made his international debut in 2003, in an ODI against South Africa in Dhaka. With Harbhajan Singh and Anil Kumble taking the spinners’ spots in Tests around that time, Mishra’s Test debut only came in October 2008 against Australia in Mohali, when Kumble was ruled out with an injury. He took a five-wicket haul on debut but he was rarely among India’s premier spinners and did not get a long run in any of the formats.”It was a big thing to fill the shoes of Anil Kumble, there was pressure” Mishra said.Mishra continued to excel in domestic cricket for Haryana and in the IPL, which resulted in comebacks to the India side, including for the 2013 Champions Trophy and the 2014 T20 World Cup.”It was a very disappointing thing,” Mishra said about being in and out of the team over the years. “Sometimes you’re in the team, sometimes you’re out. Sometimes you get a chance in the playing eleven, sometimes you don’t. Of course, it’s frustrating, and I was frustrated many times, no doubt.”But then you remember that your dream is to play cricket for India. You are with the national team, and millions of people are working so hard just to be there. You are one of the 15 players on the Indian team. So, I tried to stay positive.”Whenever I was frustrated, I thought about what I could improve on. Whether it was my fitness, batting, or bowling, I always focused on getting better. Whenever I got a chance to play for the Indian team, I performed well, and I’m very happy about that. I never shied away from hard work.”Mishra finishes with 535 wickets in 152 first-class matches, 252 wickets in 152 List A games, and 285 wickets in 259 T20s. He also scored a double-century in first-class cricket – an unbeaten 202 against Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy in December 2012.
Pakistan could take a few encouraging signs from India’s match against Oman on Friday
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How can Afridi deal with Abhishek?
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Remember the 1986 Asia Cup? The one without India, because they did not want to travel to Sri Lanka? Or the 1990-91 Asia Cup? The one without Pakistan, because they did not want anything to do with India?This Asia Cup could have been one of those Asia Cups, but given the two sides of this particular coin, and given how much that coin is worth, we have instead an Asia Cup where India are about to play Pakistan for the second time in a week, with the possibility of a third meeting in another week’s time. But just so we know things aren’t normal, handshakes are off-limits for one team, and the other doesn’t like the match referee.If it’s somehow possible to put all that aside, Sunday’s Super Fours meeting could be quite interesting from a cricket point of view. India will be back on the field less than 48 hours after playing Oman, and if Pakistan watched that game, they may have seen a few encouraging signs:Related
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A left-arm swing bowler, Shah Faisal, bowled Shubman Gill with his third ball and kept beating Sanju Samson’s bat thereafter. Pakistan have a left-arm swing bowler with a Shah in his name.
At various points, India’s batters struggled for fluency on a pitch without a lot of pace in it.
India only picked up four Oman wickets.
All this, of course, happened when Suryakumar Yadav didn’t bat even though his team lost eight wickets, and when India rested Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakravarthy and got five overs out of their sixth, seventh and eighth bowlers combined. India were in full-on experimental mode against Oman, and they won comfortably anyway.Pakistan know all this, and they know India start as overwhelming favourites. But this is the Super Fours, effectively a new tournament with the slate wiped clean for both teams. And while this is an India line-up of frightening strength and depth, the gap between it and less formidable line-ups shrinks in conditions that typically yield smaller totals, such as those in the UAE. There is even an argument to be made that Pakistan made things harder for themselves in last Sunday’s clash by deciding to bat first in conditions that have tended to favour chasing.Given all that, this could still be an India-Pakistan match that we’ll remember years down the line, for cricketing reasons, even if recent history has given us little reason to believe it.
Form guide
India WWWWW (last five completed T20Is, most recent first) Pakistan WLWWW2:33
Chopra: Pakistan were timid against India’s spin
In the spotlight: Jasprit Bumrah and Saim Ayub
Three wickets in two games at 15.66, an economy rate of 6.71. Those are excellent numbers in most contexts, but they’re a little… ordinary given that they belong to Jasprit Bumrah and that they make him India’s fourth-best performer with the ball in this Asia Cup. But those numbers don’t really mean anything given the sample sizes involved, and the fact that he has been asked to do unusual things like bowling three overs in the powerplay. And anyway, this is the start of the tournament proper. As in any other game Bumrah plays, he starts it as one of the likeliest figures on either side to win it all by himself.Zero, 0, 0. Saim Ayub has been a valuable performer with the ball during this Asia Cup, but he has literally contributed nothing with his primary skill. That said, he has been dismissed three times playing ambitious shots right at the start of his innings. That sort of intent is exactly what Pakistan have brought Ayub into their line-up for, and this sort of run of low scores is the flip side of that intent. It can happen to anyone; how he and Pakistan react could be the barometer of how fully they have embraced this new way.
Team news
Axar Patel went off the field during Oman’s innings on Friday, after his head struck the ground while he stumbled in the course of a missed catch, and did not return thereafter. There has been no indication from the team management that he won’t be fit to play Sunday’s clash, but if he isn’t available, India may have to depart from the three-spinner strategy they have employed in all their Dubai games, and live with less batting depth than they are accustomed to.Will they shake hands on Sunday at the toss?•Associated Press
India (possible): 1 Abhishek Sharma, 2 Shubman Gill, 3 Suryakumar Yadav (capt), 4 Tilak Varma, 5 Sanju Samson (wk), 6 Shivam Dube, 7 Hardik Pandya, 8 Axar Patel/Harshit Rana/Arshdeep Singh, 9 Kuldeep Yadav, 10 Jasprit Bumrah, 11 Varun Chakravarthy.After losing to India last Sunday, Pakistan made two changes against UAE, bringing in Haris Rauf and Khushdil Shah, a frontline quick and a specialist batter, for Sufiyan Muqeem and Faheem Ashraf, a wristspinner and a seam-bowling allrounder. All four bring different things to the table, and it remains to be seen which combination Pakistan go for.Pakistan (possible): 1 Sahibzada Farhan, 2 Saim Ayub, 3 Fakhar Zaman, 4 Salman Agha (capt), 5 Hasan Nawaz, 6 Khushdil Shah, 7 Mohammad Haris (wk), 8 Mohammad Nawaz, 9 Shaheen Shah Afridi, 10 Haris Rauf, 11 Abrar Ahmed.
Pitch and conditions
Spin is king all over the UAE, but more so in Dubai than in Abu Dhabi. Expect India to go back to three spinners if Axar is fit. Chasing teams tend to get a significant advantage in Dubai – they won 15 straight Full-Member-vs-Full-Member T20Is here at one point – but recent results have been more even – the last five such contests have brought the chasing team three wins and two defeats. Dew, according to Suryakumar, has been less evident than it was during the 2021 T20 World Cup, when India were severely disadvantaged by losing tosses.
Stats and trivia
India have an 11-3 (10-3 plus the tie they won via bowl-out at the 2007 T20 World Cup) head-to-head record against Pakistan in T20Is.
Sanju Samson needs 83 runs to become the 12th India batter to 1000 in T20Is.
Hardik Pandya is four wickets short of 100 in T20Is, while Faheem Ashraf is two short of 50.
Quotes
“Toss hasn’t made much of a difference. The wicket doesn’t change that much. There hasn’t been that much dew either.”
“Our batting has been a little up and down. The conditions are slightly tough for batters, and a lot of the boys have been discussing how best to tackle them. Hopefully our top three can bat longer – if they do, we’ll be in a position to set a good total. And in these conditions, chasing won’t be easy.”
They might have dropped points last time out, but Arsenal are flying this season.
They sit four points clear atop the Premier League table and second in the Champions League, with four wins and four clean sheets in as many games.
One of the stars of the Gunners’ impressive campaign so far has been Declan Rice, who has been as crucial going forward as he has been in keeping those clean sheets.
Therefore, fans should be delighted about reports linking them with another top-quality international who’d be a Rice-type signing.
Arsenal target Rice-Type signing
The transfer window is still over a month away, but Arsenal are starting to be linked with some exciting players again.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
For example, stories are once again touting Real Madrid’s Rodrygo for a move to the Emirates following a disappointing start to the season.
A cheaper, lesser-known, but nonetheless exciting wide option the Gunners have been linked with is Lyon’s Malick Fofana, who has been catching the attention of some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
However, while either attacker would be an exciting addition to the team, neither could be described as particularly Rice-esque, unlike Elliot Anderson.
Yes, according to reports from Spain, Arsenal are one of several clubs interested in the Nottingham Forest star.
In fact, the report has revealed that North Londoners are set to enter the bidding war for the England international, who has a price tag of between £100m and £120m.
It could therefore be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but given Anderson’s immense ability, it’s one worth pursuing, especially as it would be a Rice-type signing.
Why Elliot Anderson would be a Rice repeat for Arsenal
Now, there are obviously some differences between Rice and Anderson, from their playstyles to career paths, but were the latter to join Arsenal, there would be many parallels with the former’s move as well.
For example, it would be another example of the Gunners going out and spending north of £100m on a top-quality central midfielder from a non ‘big six’ Premier League team.
Moreover, like the former West Ham United captain was at the time of his move, the Forest ace is now an established and vitally important player for England.
In fact, ahead of his side’s win over Serbia, Thomas Tuchel described the 23-year-old as a “key player” for the Three Lions and “one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.”
The fact that he is such an incredible central midfielder is another obvious trait he shares with the Gunners’ number 41, as is his versatility.
For example, since moving to the City Ground, the former Newcastle United gem has made 25 appearances in central midfield, 20 in defensive midfield, five in left midfield and three in attacking midfield.
In other words, like the former Hammers star, the “world-class” ace, as dubbed by one commentator, could play wherever Arteta wanted him to in the middle of the park, and as a result, form relationships with a host of Arsenal players.
Finally, on top of also taking corners, the Whitley Bay-born “powerhouse,” as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, has some incredible underlying numbers to his name, proving that the comparisons to Rice are fully justified.
According to FBref, he ranks in the top 1% of midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues for ball recoveries, the top 3% for tackles in the defensive third, the top 4% for carries into the penalty area, the top 7% for successful take-ons and more, all per 90.
Ball Recoveries
7.42
Top 1%
Dribbles Challenged
3.32
Top 2%
SCA (Defensive Action)
0.16
Top 3%
Tackles (Def 3rd)
1.61
Top 3%
Carries into Penalty Area
0.70
Top 4%
Fouls Drawn
2.14
Top 6%
Outswinging Corner Kicks
1.18
Top 7%
Successful Take-Ons
1.21
Top 7%
Penalty Kicks Made
0.03
Top 9%
GCA (Defensive Action)
0.03
Top 10%
Tackles
2.89
Top 11%
SCA (Take-On)
0.16
Top 12%
Corner Kicks
1.96
Top 13%
SCA (Fouls Drawn)
0.16
Top 13%
Tackles Won
1.61
Top 13%
Dribblers Tackled
1.39
Top 13%
Crosses
3.35
Top 14%
SCA (Dead-ball Pass)
0.64
Top 14%
Penalty Kicks Won
0.03
Top 15%
Ultimately, while it would cost a king’s ransom, Arsenal should do what they can to sign Anderson, as he’s an excellent player and could have a Rice-type impact on the team.
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