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Manchester United have now opened talks to sign a £52m midfielder who’s “out of this world”, with Ruben Amorim identifying him as one of his top targets, according to a report.

Neville urges Man Utd to sign new midfielder

The rebuild is well underway at Man United, with Matheus Cunha becoming the first major signing of the summer, while they remain in the running for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, but Gary Neville believes several other signings will be necessary.

The United legend said: “It needs a big overhaul in the summer. Five or six players minimum to be able to change the direction of how he wants to play. There’s at least two forwards, a central midfield player, definitely two wing backs and another centre-back. They need six players minimum.”

The Red Devils are now closing in on a new central midfielder, with a deal for Valencia’s Javi Guerra thought to be edging closer to completion, while they have also stepped up their pursuit of a Serie A star.

Man Utd now set to accelerate talks to sign "fantastic" £35m forward

The Red Devils’ pursuit of a centre-forward is expected to move quickly.

1

By
Dominic Lund

Jul 8, 2025

That is according to a report from GOAL (via Football Transfers), which states that Man United have now opened talks over a deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, having been identified as one of Amorim’s top targets.

The central midfielder is highly sought-after, with AC Milan and Juventus submitting enquiries of their own, while he also has plenty of admirers from within the Premier League, including Arsenal, Newcastle United and Chelsea.

None of the aforementioned English clubs are expected to make moves, however, potentially opening the door for a move to Old Trafford, but a deal is unlikely to be cheap, with the Italian club setting an asking price of €60m (£52m).

Ederson could take Man Utd's midfield to next level

Former England boss Fabio Capello was left extremely impressed by the Brazilian’s performances last season, saying: “He is out of this world for his ability to combine running, physicality, technique and intelligence”.

Central midfield has been a real problem position for the Red Devils in recent times, with Manuel Ugarte’s struggles since arriving at Old Trafford well-documented, while Jamie Carragher infamously suggested Casemiro is finished at the top level.

With the former Real Madrid man now 33-years-old, it is clear that Amorim needs to bring in a long-term replacement, and the Atalanta star could be a solid option, having been dubbed a “machine” in midfield by journalist Carlo Garganese.

Ederson could be a fantastic signing for Man United this summer, and it is a boost that Arsenal, Newcastle and Chelsea aren’t expected to make approaches, given that the propsect of playing in the Champions League could appeal to the Brazil international.

Liverpool could only wonder what it would be like to sit back at the top before Jurgen Klopp replaced Brendan Rodgers way back when.

But the strong desire for greater success has since been realised, in full colour, over a sustained period of success that has returned every shape of silverware to Anfield’s trophy cabinet.

And when Arne Slot replaced the German last summer after he had ‘run out of energy’, in his own words, many thought that was it, that was the end of an illustrious period that would be remembered for years and years.

That hasn’t proved the case. Most rivals expected the Reds to fall by the wayside, or at least stumble, ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, but Liverpool are Premier League champions, deserving winners, dominant winners.

Multiple threads connect the two eras, but that all-important piece of twine, central to everything good on the red half of Merseyside across recent years, is Mohamed Salah.

And he’s set to continue his iconic journey.

Mohamed Salah's Liverpool future

Liverpool ended months of anxious speculation in April, extending Salah’s contract at Liverpool for an additional two years. His £350k-per-week deal was set to expire at the end of the 2024/25 season.

He’s no longer a spring chicken, but Salah is very much still reflecting his greatness on the field. Last term, he spearheaded Slot’s Premier League title charge, notching 47 goal contributions across the league campaign (an all-time record for a 38-game season).

His vicious blend of deadly shooting and intelligent playmaking have established him as one of the finest forwards of his generation, indeed hailed by Liverpool podcaster Lewis Aspinall as “the best right winger in Premier League history”.

Salah is now 33 years old, but he has all the tools to forge another successful season for himself and his team. With someone like Florian Wirtz, signed from Bayer Leverkusen for a British-record £116m fee, supplying him, is there really any doubt?

Moreover, Liverpool are hoping to sign a centre-forward to replace Darwin Nunez, and he could be perfect for the Egyptian King.

Liverpool hold talks for new striker

As per Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool remain interested in signing Hugo Ekitike this summer and have been in contact regarding the player, though they face stiff competition from Newcastle United.

Transfer Focus

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

Chelsea have also shown interest this summer, but their recent £60m acquisition of Joao Pedro will have tempered their desire.

The Eintracht Frankfurt striker is among the most coveted players on the market, but he’s valued at £85m, and this has dissuaded suitors from making concrete moves.

Nonetheless, if Liverpool bank sums from Nunez (with Luis Diaz attracting intrigue from Bayern Munich and Barcelona too), they will have the means and the focus to push ahead and sign a frontman who has what it takes to become a superstar.

Why Liverpool want Hugo Ekitike

Ekitike was recognised as an exciting attacking talent from his days as a fledgling on the professional stage, with talent scout Jacek Kulig saying, “he could reach world-class striker levels”.

He has demonstrated as such in the Bundesliga over the past year, scoring 22 goals and supplying 12 assists across all competitions last season. He had spent a half-season on loan with Die Adler previously, warming himself up to a senior role away from the bloatedness of Paris Saint-Germain’s fringes.

And what a decision it was to forge his own path away from the French capital. The data is certainly kind to Ekitike, for he ranked among the top 16% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues last season for goal involvements, the top 6% for shot-creating actions, the top 4% for both progressive carries and successful take-ons, and the top 20% for ball recoveries per 90, as per FBref.

That latter metric is interesting. Ekitike is a man of mobility and swiftness. He gets things done himself, scarce one to linger in wait of deliveries posted onto his doorstep.

This is especially important for the continued success of Salah, for the Liverpool legend is indeed getting on a bit, and a robust and reliable centre-forward such as Ekitike will aid him in conserving his energy for the critical moments.

The Frenchman might not be on the same prolific level as Salah, but he’s got a similarly varied approach to his attacking play, and this could bear dividends for Liverpool’s offensive fluency next season.

It’s important to remember that Ekitike isn’t the finished product yet, but then he’s already been hailed as “one of the best strikers out there” by analyst Ben Mattinson, with his progress a rising thing over the past several seasons.

He would certainly prove an upgrade on Nunez, who has been heavily linked with a move to Napoli this summer.

Goals scored

0.53

0.40

Assists

0.28

0.16

Shots taken

4.00

2.70

Shot-creating actions

3.55

2.46

Touches (att pen)

6.88

5.88

Progressive passes

1.86

2.14

Progressive carries

3.27

1.83

Successful take-ons

1.83

0.64

Ball recoveries

3.06

3.26

Tackles + interceptions

0.81

1.99

Nunez has been known for his connection with Salah, having assisted the right-winger 11 times across his Liverpool career. Can you imagine how a more refined and established forward like Ekitike would play with him, in turn providing a far superior goal threat?

Moreover, the forward is blessed with a certain instinctiveness that will allow him to latch right onto Salah’s inventive passes, his whipped crosses and deft lay-offs.

This “incredible” young prospect, as described by teammate Rasmus Kristensen, is on the fast track to the top of the game, and Liverpool must do all they can to ensure he winds up at Anfield this summer.

He might even be the perfect partner for Salah over the next couple of years, bringing an energy and dynamism to feed off the 33-year-old’s technical brilliance.

Huijsen 2.0: Liverpool enquire to sign one of the 'most complete teen CBs'

Liverpool could be set to target their next centre-back sensation, in the mould of Dean Huijsen

ByRobbie Walls Jul 10, 2025

Also says he is not a fan of pre-seeding teams, which could potentially now force three table-toppers in one Super Eight group

Matt Roller16-Jun-20243:00

Starc on Hazlewood’s comment: ‘A throwaway line blown out of proportion’

Mitchell Starc accused the media of blowing “a throwaway line” from Josh Hazlewood “right out of proportion” after Australia’s win over Scotland ensured rivals England progress to the Super Eight of the T20 World Cup 2024.Hazlewood suggested earlier this week that it would be in Australia’s “best interests” to eliminate England at the group stage, speculating about a scenario where they could “drag out” their game against Scotland. The Australian camp has since played the comments down, insisting Hazlewood joking comment was taken out of context.Related

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Stoinis breaks Scotland hearts, England through to Super Eight

With their Super Eight seeding predetermined and no points carried forward, Australia had nothing to play for in St Lucia except gaining playing time. But England hammered Oman on Thursday to overtake Scotland’s net run rate and then beat Namibia convincingly in a rain-shortened game on Saturday afternoon, which meant that Scotland needed to win to qualify.Australia rested Pat Cummins and Hazlewood and were a long way short of their best in the field, dropping six catches as Scotland set them a target of 181. They started slowly in the chase, showing limited intent, and at one stage needed 87 off 39 balls with England watching on nervously from Antigua.But Travis Head, Marcus Stoinis and Tim David took them home with two balls to spare and put to bed any questions about their approach to bed. Mitchell Marsh, their captain, laughed at the post-match presentation when he was asked how much England’s fate had been discussed: “I think more externally than internally, but we won today and that’s all that matters.”Starc ‘not a fan’ of pre-seedingThe situation exposed the shortcoming of the tournament’s structure, with teams’ Super Eight opponents predetermined by seedings rather than their first-round finishing positions. Australia will progress as ‘B2’ despite winning all four group games.Depending on the result of Afghanistan’s game against West Indies on Monday night, three group winners could be drawn in the same Super Eight pool as a result.There is also information asymmetry in every group, with some teams advantaged by playing last and therefore knowing exactly what they need to qualify. “I think there’s a question to be asked about pre-seeding. I’m not sure I’m a fan of that.” Starc said, when asked if the ICC should schedule the final round of games within each group simultaneously to avoid potential integrity issues.But he also insisted that the comments Hazlewood made, directly responding to questions about possible scenarios, had nothing to them. “I think a throwaway line has been blown right out of proportion by you lot,” he said, referring to the media attending his post-match press conference.”You don’t stuff around with mother cricket and trying to worry about other results. We’re here to win games. It’s international cricket. England now are on the other side of the draw, so it really doesn’t make that much difference for the next three games. So yeah, I think that was blown right out of proportion by you guys.”

“We have another game here [against India] in the Super Eight, so [it was about] getting accustomed to or having a look at conditions here as well”Mitchell Starc looks ahead

Brandon McMullen, who top-scored for Scotland with 60 off 34 balls, said they had never questioned Australia’s intentions. “They’re always going to put up a good fight,” he said. “They’re never just going to roll over and let you win. I’m glad that it was a close game today. We showed that we can compete at this high level against the best players in the world.”Ashton Agar celebrates dismissing Michael Jones•AFP/Getty ImagesStarc described Australia’s catching as “terrible” but played down the fact they had nothing riding on the result. “[It was about] trying different options for us, but still trying to be very competitive with ball and with bat,” he said. “We certainly dropped the mark in the field… It didn’t feel different. It’s still a World Cup game, you’re still playing for Australia and you still try to take wickets and win games.”Australia expect spin to play a major role in the latter stages of this tournament and bowled 12 overs of spin in total, including four from Ashton Agar in his first appearance of the World Cup. “We were in a position where we had plenty of options on the table,” Starc said. “We had a chance to rest the two big boys [Hazlewood and Pat Cummins] and get some gametime into Ash.”We have another game here [against India] in the Super Eight, so [it was about] getting accustomed to or having a look at conditions here as well… having some batting time into our middle order and some of our spinners obviously getting some time in different situations in the bowling innings, it was a good hit out. That was all we wanted and then we push onto the Super Eights.”Starc also played down concerns about his calf, having been rested for Australia’s win over Oman. “I had a scan, it was all clear, and I had the extra few days with the Namibia game and [came] back in today. It was all good to go. It was better off doing it in the first half of the tournament than when it gets busy in the second half.”

Tottenham Hotspur and chairman Daniel Levy have some key decisions to make in the near future, which even stretch beyond manager Ange Postecoglou.

Tottenham's transfer plans amid Ange Postecoglou uncertainty

With Levy yet to fully decide on whether to stick or twist with Postecoglou, following a season of extreme highs to the lowest of lows, the Lilywhites chief will need to commit to a direction soon as we enter the summer transfer window.

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Postecoglou’s position in the dugout will greatly determine how Spurs tackle their recruitment strategy, and with the first mini-window now upon us – open from June 1 to June 10 – supporters will be eager for the Australian’s future to resolved as soon as possible.

There are reports that Levy and technical director Johan Lange have identified targets, with Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze among the players attracting Tottenham’s keen interest.

Tottenham’s best-performing regulars in the Premier League – 2024/2025

Average match rating

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

However, it is unlikely they can make any serious moves until they have some clarity regarding Postecoglou, who guided the club to their first major trophy in 17 years but also set a dismal Tottenham record for most Premier League defeats in a single season (22).

It appears an attacker is firmly on the agenda at Spurs, amid links to Eze and Bayern Munich star Leroy Sané, with Spurs chiefs reportedly keen to add more experience to their youthful squad.

“Spurs don’t have to sell to buy, with Champions League qualification huge for the club,” said Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge in a Q&A, providing some answers on the club’s transfer plans.

“All areas, apart from the goalkeeping department, will be looked at. Midfield and forward would be the priority if Cristian Romero stays.”

There are many intriguing market opportunities for Spurs to consider, and one of them comes in the form of wantaway £195,000-per-week Chelsea winger Christopher Nkunku.

The France international bagged 14 goals in all competitions under Enzo Maresca last season, despite barely starting, and he can play in a variety of attacking roles – namely on the left-wing, attacking midfield, second striker and as a centre-forward.

Tottenham plotting bid to sign Christopher Nkunku on loan

Spurs made an enquiry for Nkunku recently, as reported by reliable GiveMeSport journalist Ben Jacobs, so he appears to be a genuine target for Levy.

Now, Chelsea News, a site run by another reliable journalist in Simon Phillips, reports that Tottenham are considering a loan bid for Nkunku with an option to buy the 27-year-old.

The former RB Leipzig star’s final price tag could apparently be around £46 million plus bonuses, which would take it to £55 million, but both Spurs and Newcastle are keen to take him on an initial temporary deal before paying anywhere near that amount.

Even though Chelsea would prefer an outright sale, there is an acceptance within Stamford Bridge that they may have to green-light such a move, with the Blues keen to get him off their books.

Nkunku could be an excellent deal for Tottenham given his quality, experience and versatility, with the option of remaining in London also potentially attractive for the player.

Aston Villa could win the race for an “incredible” £100m forward, whose club may now be willing to cash-in this summer, according to a report.

Villa's summer transfer plans

It was a valiant effort against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday night, with Villa overturning a two-goal deficit to win 3-2 on the night, but the result wasn’t enough for Unai Emery’s side to progress to the Champions League semi-finals.

Having had their first taste of Champions League football in quite some time, however, Villa will be eager to have more special nights in Europe in the future, and they could go even deeper in the competition if they strengthen their squad this summer.

After selling Jhon Duran to Al-Nassr back in January, the Villans are keen on bringing in a new striker, and they are now ready to spend £75m on Wolverhampton Wanderers star Matheus Cunha.

Aston Villa working to seal deal for £12.5m player keen on Villa Park move

The Villans are working on a move for a midfielder, who is interested in a move to Villa Park.

By
Dominic Lund

Apr 15, 2025

Not only are Emery’s side pursuing an out-and-out striker, but they are also keen to bolster their wide options, and they remain in a strong position to complete the permanent signing of Marcus Rashford.

According to a report from GiveMeSport, Aston Villa could also win the race for Manchester City winger Jack Grealish, with Pep Guardiola’s side giving indications they could be willing to cash-in on the Englishman this summer.

The 29-year-old joined City in a £100m deal back in August 2021, but he has fallen down the pecking order at the Etihad Stadium, which could open the door for a return to Villa Park.

However, there is widespread interest in Grealish’s signature, with Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United also in the picture, while Serie A giants AC Milan headline the interest from abroad.

"Incredible" Grealish may need to leave City

The former Villa man probably has no regrets about joining Man City, given that he played a major role in their treble-winning 2022-23 campaign, but there are signs he may need to leave this summer for the good of his career.

Theo Walcott has particularly scrutinised the impact Guardiola’s coaching methods have had on the “incredible” winger’s ability to express himself on the pitch.

The Birmingham-born forward has amassed just two goal contributions in the Premier League this season, although he has impressed on some other key metrics over the past year, most notably ranking in the top 1% for progressive carries, when compared to his positional peers.

Statistic	Average per 90
Progressive carries	8.08 (99th percentile)
Pass completion %	88.1% (99th percentile)
Progressive passes	5.75 (86th percentile)

A move back to Villa Park could be exactly what Grealish needs to reignite his career, and Emery should definitely consider making a move, should he be available for a suitable fee.

In 2022, Liverpool broke their transfer record to reel in Darwin Nunez, a talented and robust centre-forward who had made quite the name for himself at Benfica.

Having scored 34 goals across 41 matches in 2021/22, he clearly had the trappings of an elite-level striker. Jurgen Klopp was convinced after he scored against the Reds in the Champions League knockout stage after firing three goals in against Bayern Munich and Barcelona earlier in the term.

We’re now three years on from all that, three years on from Klopp’s decision to agree to a deal worth £85m for the Uruguayan ace. It hasn’t worked out, with Fabrizio Romano confirming that Nunez is set to be sold this summer after a winter move to Al-Nassr fell through.

It’s important that FSG get it right this summer, pick out the perfect successor. The name on fans’ lips is Alexander Isak, but that might not be a deal worth pursuing.

Why Liverpool shouldn't sign Alexander Isak

Arne Slot has worked wonders this season, leapfrogging Arsenal, four-in-a-row champions Manchester City, and the like to move, inexorably, toward the Premier League title.

Since signing Ryan Gravenberch in August 2023, Federico Chiesa has been the only first-team signing made, bearing testament to the team that Klopp assembled over so many years and his successor’s ability to whip them into an even finer shape.

The summer ahead is expected to be a big one, though, and The Athletic are among those to have confirmed Liverpool’s interest in Isak, who has been hailed as “the best striker in the Premier League” by Jamie Carragher.

Obviously, he’d be nice to have in the ranks, but Newcastle are very much aware of their talisman’s talents and have slapped a £150m transfer fee on his name.

Liverpool shouldn’t go near a deal if the Magpies won’t budge on that valuation this summer. There are other options available and this would exhaust resources at a critical juncture.

This might feel a bit pragmatic, but Liverpool’s structure is firmly rooted in realism, and it’s paid dividends over the years.

See, for example, the decision in April 2023 to end interest in Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham and instead sign a range of talented midfielders to pack the Anfield midfield back together.

Those midfielders are on course to win the Premier League after lifting the Carabao Cup last year.

Liverpool do need a new number nine though. Luckily, Isak’s not the only elite marksman on the market.

Liverpool chasing top striker

As per Sky Sports, Liverpool have compiled a shortlist of strikers – including Isak – to replace Nunez this summer, and fans may be interested to note that Victor Osimhen is on the club’s radar.

Athletic, powerful, and deadly in front of goal, the Napoli forward, who is on loan at Galatasaray, is expected to leave Naples for good at the end of the season after relationships broke down and prompted him to move temporarily to Turkey.

Last year, Napoli set demands of a fee north of £100m for the Nigeria striker, but hopes have been tempered as he approaches the final year of his deal, with separate reports suggesting the 26-year-old could be available for £63m.

Why Liverpool should sign Victor Osimhen

Firstly, Liverpool should consider signing Osimhen because he’s one of the most prolific strikers in Europe and has the perfect profile to thrive in the Premier League.

His career with Napoli might have ended unceremoniously but Osimhen was the driving force behind the club’s incredible Scudetto success of 2022/23, scoring 31 goals from 39 matches in all competitions.

Last season was one of frustration for the Nigerian, whose injury issues exacerbated the Serie A champion’s dramatic decline.

However, he’s back among the goals with Galatasaray, indeed proving to be one of Europe’s most potent centre-forwards.

Standing at 6 foot 1, Osimhen has the frame and the strength to lead Liverpool’s line in the Premier League, bring goals, and a powerful focal presence to enhance the performances of those around him.

As per FBref, he ranks among the top 10% of strikers in Europe over the past year for goals scored, the top 8% for shot-creating actions, the top 1% for touches in the attacking penalty area and shots taken and the top 7% for aerial duels won per 90.

It’s a fine representation of his quality, so active and present in the striker’s spot. Comparing him against Nunez, whose erratic and enigmatic style has left him isolated in the Premier League, and you can see why Liverpool are ramping up their interest.

Victor Osimhen vs Darwin Nunez (24/25)

Stats (* per game)

Osimhen

Nunez

Matches (starts)

22 (20)

24 (8)

Goals

20

5

Assists

4

2

Shots (on target)*

4.5 (1.8)

1.3 (0.2)

Big chances missed

17

6

Key passes*

1.1

0.4

Dribbles*

0 5

0.3

Duels won*

5.3

2.3

Stats via Sofascore

It goes without saying that Osimhen is more clinical than Nunez, but his goalscoring quality is built upon the dynamic and rangy skill set that has led BBC journalist Alex Brotherton to hail him as “unstoppable.”

His creative spark – having created ten big chances in the Turkish Super Lig, is something that could hold sway when Slot and Liverpool’s chiefs devise a transfer strategy.

Of course, Osimhen hasn’t been restricted to domestic success this term either, with his overall tally of 28 goals from 32 matches this season owing to a prolific burst in the Europa League, notably dismantling Tottenham Hotspur in the group stage.

This, if you refer back to the ‘goals scored’ graphic above, places him ahead of Isak, truly underscoring how prolific a goalscorer Liverpool could get their mitts on.

If Nunez is to be sold, this man would mark a significant upgrade, one who could make all the difference in keeping the frontline firing next year as Liverpool chase down more success under Slot’s wing.

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Posts ByAngus Sinclair Apr 5, 2025

With 31 needed off 10 balls, calm Aussie sets up Somerset’s thrilling win over Surrey

Andrew Miller24-Apr-2025Was this proof of concept in a single thrilling tussle? To be at Beckenham on a historic day for women’s county cricket was to be privy to a host of competing, often conflicting, narratives … more of which shortly. However, the day’s events ended up being governed by one over-arching, all-conquering truth.As Gary Lineker didn’t quite say: Women’s cricket is played by 22 players over the course of an afternoon, and in the end, the Australian wins it.Though she’s still only 27, Amanda-Jade Wellington has not played a match for Australia for three years and counting. And yet, when she strode to the middle with two overs of Somerset’s spirited but stiff run-chase remaining, she did so with precisely the conviction that English women’s cricket is deemed to have been lacking throughout a winter of deep and lasting discontent.Which is not to say that it’s her nationality wot won it, but when you face your first ball with 31 runs still needed from 10 deliveries, and duly help yourself to six fours in seven balls to set up a last-ball burglary, it’s hard not to assume that correlation and causation are one and the same.Related

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“Naah, never!” Wellington declared afterwards, when asked if she feared that Somerset’s hopes were already dead and buried, by the time she took strike for that first delivery from Ryana MacDonald-Gay.Wellington’s finesse was remarkable to behold. There was a stillness to her decision-making from first ball to last – an early movement around the crease, but invariably a late decision to engage, as she waited for the ball to arrive then dinked it across a lush and rapid outfield. Four times she stroked MacDonald-Gay through the arc between cover and deep third, with not even a switch to round the wicket disturbing her thought process.Then, after repeating the dose against Alice Davidson-Richards, Wellington changed her tack at the sixth time of asking, walking across to the off-side to flick her sixth consecutive four through fine leg and bring the requirement down to two off two.”I just played my game,” she said. “I know it really well. I saw an opportunity where there was a massive gap. I know I’m not the strongest player, so I’m not going to hit sixes everywhere. I have to find a way to try and manipulate the field, and use the pace on the ball. That’s something I’m known for, and it worked today.”A scrambled leg-bye drew the scores level, but even with her direct role in the contest over, Wellington’s positivity shone through for Fran Wilson’s winning moment.”Naaah, there was no doubt when the field went up,” Wellington said. “I just said to Fran, if it’s a slower ball, go for it, because there’s no-one out there, and if you miss it, we’re running anyway. I back Fran Wilson every day of the week and she got us over the line.”It clearly wasn’t a one-woman show – even if Wellington was also the star turn with the ball, claiming 3 for 42 with her legspin, including two of the three England regulars in a star-studded Surrey top-order, Danni Wyatt-Hodge and Alice Capsey.Amanda-Jade Wellington’s composed innings took Somerset to the brink of victory•Andrew MillerThere was also the small matter of Heather Knight’s return to competition, three months on from another Australia-dominated tussle in the Ashes. “We call her spring chicken … golden arm!” Wellington joked, after Knight picked off Sophia Dunkley with her second ball of the match, then embarked on a tangibly determined knock of 64 from 54 balls to give Somerset’s run-chase the ideal tempo.A comeback hundred wasn’t to be, but as she stamped her mark on an opening partnership of 122 with Emma Corney, Knight’s performance – in only her third domestic List A match since 2021 – underlined the value of England’s senior players being placed front and centre of this rebooted county competition.”It’s very important for the England players to be playing domestic cricket,” Johann Myburgh, Surrey’s head coach, said. “It’s great to see on both sides. Having them around is great for us as a group, but it’s also great for them as cricket players, in terms of having consistency and understanding how they want to play their cricket.”If you came down and watched the game today, you’d have seen a very high standard of cricket,” he added. “The game in the last five years has been evolving and getting better. The professionalisation of the game means players can spend more hours on their craft, they can enhance themselves physically and mentally, and this is just another step in that process.”It is, however, a process that will need some fine-tuning as the season unfolds. For all the fine words about the unification of the men’s and women’s games, there was something jarring about Surrey choosing Kent’s second home, Beckenham, as their venue for this historic relaunch.The logic was sound, so far as it went. For four years, this was the regular base for the now defunct South-East Stars, the regional set-up whose logo remains painted on the wall of the indoor school, so there was at least a degree of continuity for the many players who have transferred their allegiance to the Three Feathers.And yet, amid the bold talk of new men’s and women’s changing-rooms in a soon-to-be-refitted Kia Oval, it was a bit odd, at the very least, not to launch the new era on the same stage that has welcomed the men since 1845. And while the morning rain did little to lure the good folk of Bromley along to witness history, at no stage in the day did the main stand number more than 15 people.The logic for the snub was fair enough, if you’re being generous. Despite its vast proportions, the pressure on The Oval’s playing surfaces is already intense, not least due to the need to use its outer strips for net practice. Plus, there was no expense spared on Surrey’s live stream, a market-leading production in itself, with close to 3000 people tuning into its six-camera production for the finale.Things will be different when the T20 Blast takes centre stage in May, including four double-headers slated for The Oval in June and July. Then again, such exclusionary scheduling is part of the reason why the women’s game is currently playing such urgent catch-up. It’s not a distinction that the other Tier 1 clubs have felt the need to make.Instead, looming over the contest was the livery of Kent – grumpily consigned to Tier 2 of the new competition, from where their remit may well be to keep pumping their best players across the Medway, at least until they are permitted to bid for professional status from 2029 onwards.Surrey made a token effort to counter this anomaly, with two temporary signs and a further drape on the main gate, strategically positioned to blot out some of their rivals’ branding. They couldn’t do much about the vast prancing horse logo on the roof of the indoor school, however, which tends to give the complex the curious vibe of a disused Ferrari factory.Still, Myburgh wasn’t fazed by the circumstances of this launch event – “it’s been an absolute pleasure to be a part of the Surrey family,” he said – while Wellington was also happy enough with her first taste of the county grind.”It’s cold, but it’s a lovely ground,” she said. “It’s very picturesque and very English, and I think it’s very homely. It was great to see a good little crowd coming out and supporting not only Surrey but also Somerset as well, and I was very honoured to be a part of it. To put on a game like that for all the fans and everyone watching on the live stream, I couldn’t be prouder.”

Back in Ahmedabad for the second Qualifier, Shubman Gill scored his third century in four matches. Here is how the cricket community reacted

ESPNcricinfo staff26-May-2023

His ability to identify moments and accelerate, with consistency, puts him in a class of his own. Also keep in mind, most of his games have been at Ahmedabad, one of the bigger grounds around. Well played Shubman

— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) May 26, 2023