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Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson is reportedly a wanted man, with Manchester City said to have scouted the England international “more than 10 times”. They have been impressed by the 23-year-old’s performances for club and country, with Anderson becoming a top transfer target at the Etihad Stadium. He will, however, come with a £100 million ($132m) price tag.

Anderson contract: Nottingham Forest have long-term deal in place

Forest have Anderson tied to a long-term contract through to the summer of 2029. With that in mind, they are under no pressure to sell. Their hand may, however, be forced if a sizable bid is tabled for the talented playmaker.

The Reds have been able to offer Anderson continental football in the Europa League this season, but have struggled for consistency domestically and find themselves perched just above the Premier League relegation zone.

AdvertisementGettyEngland ambition: Anderson on course for 2026 World Cup

Anderson harbours ambition of performing at the very highest level and appears to be on course to secure a place in Thomas Tuchel’s plans for the 2026 World Cup. He has caught the eye while earning six senior caps – having previously savoured European U21 Championship glory with the Young Lions.

Tuchel has said: “Anderson is a key player for us at the moment. He is one of the best midfielders in the Premier League – that's why he is with us and starting for us. He deserves it because he has been nothing but impressive. He has to keep on going now though. He is a very complete and mobile midfielder, and that's what he keeps showing me.

“He still has a long career ahead of him and a long way to go. There are no guarantees, especially not publicly, for the World Cup. It doesn't help me right now to give predictions or guarantees to my players because it is all about competition at the moment. He is an elite player with the right attitude and a lot of talent. He is fulfilling his role in the best way possible so we are very happy with him.”

Asking price: Man City and Co reluctant to meet transfer demands

Given the progress that ex-Newcastle star Anderson has made, transfer talk was inevitable. His former employers at St James’ Park have made no secret of the fact that they would like to return a homegrown star to familiar surroundings.

Manchester United have also been credited with interest, but it is City that consider to be leading the chase for a much sought-after signature. They report that the Blues are “in love with Elliot Anderson”.

It is claimed that sporting director Hugo Viana and other City scouts have watched the classy midfielder “more than 10 times since the start of the season”. Positive reports have been sent back to the Etihad, with Pep Guardiola becoming a big fan.

Anderson is said to have welcomed admiring glances from the blue half of Manchester, with adding that he has “already informed his professional circle that he is giving priority to City for a future transfer”.

There is, however, no guarantee that a deal will happen any time soon. That is because Forest are prepared to play hardball and demand the highest possible fee for one of their most prized assets.

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GettyValuation to rise? Anderson's stock set to soar even further

report on how the Reds’ current valuation – which stands at nine figures – is proving to be a “snag” for Anderson’s many suitors. It is claimed that all interested parties have “refused” to meet Forest’s asking price.

An agreement during the January window of 2026 is not considered to be “conceivable”, with Forest understandably reluctant to sanction any sales in the middle of what is shaping up to be a testing season. If offers were to be presented, then they will only arrive next summer.

Anderson’s stock may have soared even further by that point, with a key role in England’s engine room seemingly now his to lose. If he were to impress on the grandest of sporting stages at the World Cup finals, then City and Co will have to dig even deeper in order to prise him away from the banks of the Trent.

From Scott McTominay overhead kicks to Troy Parrott mania and the stuff of dreams for Curaçao and Haiti, the November international break has been one full of drama.

It has also provided a far clearer picture of what the 2026 World Cup may look like. All but six countries have now booked their places in North America, with the remaining spots to be determined by playoffs taking place in March 2026, which will see four additional European teams qualify.

Along with Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, Italy are the biggest name in the European playoffs, with Poland, Denmark, Ukraine, Turkey and the Czech Republic among others being forced to take that route.

England World Cup Squad Tracker England 2026 World Cup Squad Tracker

Who is in line to make Thomas Tuchel’s 26-player squad?

ByCharlie Smith Nov 13, 2025

The remaining two places will come from the inter-confederation playoffs featuring Iraq, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Jamaica, Suriname, Bolivia and New Caledonia.

The draw for the finals will take place in Washington on Friday, December 5 at midday local time (5pm UK time), but AI has jumped the gun and predicted every group including those teams yet to be officially decided.

Group A – USA, Denmark, Norway, Japan

According to the supercomputer, hosts USA will meet Denmark, Norway and Japan in the group stage. Having qualified automatically due to their host status, America will hope to advance into the knockouts in what would be an interesting group. A lot, of course, relies on whether Denmark can qualify through the playoffs.

The Danes lost late on against Scotland and were forced to settle for a place in the playoffs rather than automatic qualification. Japan, meanwhile, could be ones to watch after they lost just once in World Cup qualifying, and Norway could yet cause a few upsets thanks to Erling Haaland. In a well-balanced group, though, both USA and Denmark would be favourites to advance.

Group B – Mexico, Ecuador, South Africa, Iraq

Like USA, Mexico have had their 2026 place sealed ever since it was announced that they would host the World Cup and the supercomputer predicts that they’ll be handed a fairly routine group to match. Joined by Ecuador, South Africa and Iraq – who just kept their qualification hopes alive with a late victory over UAE – Mexico would be expected to advance in such a group.

Group C – Canada, Iran, Uzbekistan, Republic of Ireland

Canada, the final hosts of the tournament, will be joined in Group C by Iran, Uzbekistan and Ireland – who will need to qualify through the playoffs – according to the supercomputer.

Canada should feel confident if the AI prediction is right. They could top the group in front of their home crowd.

Group D – Argentina, Switzerland, Ivory Coast, Haiti

Can Argentina retain their crown on Lionel Messi’s likely last appearance on the big stage? That’s the question. They turned on the style at times in qualifying and will be expected to advance in a group with Switzerland, Ivory Coast and Haiti if the supercomputer’s prediction comes true.

That’s not to say it’s the most routine group, though. Ivory Coast have a strong team in their own right, boasting the likes of Amad Diallo, Simon Adingra and Evann Guessand. The same, meanwhile, can be said for Switzerland, who have the likes of Granit Xhaka to call on. Argentina should top the group, but then the fight for second place would be on, especially if Haiti cause any upsets.

Group E – Brazil, Croatia, Tunisia, New Zealand

Out of all the groups that the supercomputer has predicted, Group E stands out as the most routine so far. Both Brazil and Croatia would likely compete for top spot, with Carlo Ancelotti’s side favourites to come out on top, whilst Tunisia and New Zealand battle it out for third place.

There would still be room for some shocks, but the dominance of Brazil and Croatia would likely prove too strong. Ancelotti’s side will especially be one to watch, as they weigh-up whether to bring Neymar to the World Cup and others in pursuit of glory at long last.

Group F – Uruguay, Netherlands, Egypt, Jordan

If anyone was ever keen to see Darwin Nunez up against Virgil van Dijk then Group F will be the one for you, according to the AI prediction. It has predicted that Uruguay will square off against Mohamed Salah’s Egypt, Jordan and the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup.

On paper, it looks like a routine draw for the two favourites of the group to go through, but seven-time AFCON winners Egypt are not to be taken lightly as long as Salah is fit and firing.

Group G – Belgium, Italy, Senegal, Saudi Arabia

Despite the fact that they’ll need to go through the playoffs, the supercomputer has predicted that Italy will take part in their first World Cup in over 10 years. It would signal a huge sigh of relief around the country if that proved to be the case, but their recent form suggests that it could yet be a playoff to forget once again.

Meanwhile, if they do reach the World Cup, they may still face their demise. The computer has predicted that Italy will meet a brutal group including Belgium and Senegal, one of Africa’s strongest sides, while don’t ignore Saudi Arabia, who beat eventual champions Argentina at Qatar 2022.

Group H – England, Austria, Algeria, Curacao

The supercomputer has predicted that England will be drawn into a group with Austria, Algeria and the smallest-ever country by population to feature at a World Cup, Curacao.

It wouldn’t get much more routine for the Three Lions, who are looking to finally bring football home in the men’s game to follow in the footsteps of the successful Lionesses.

They couldn’t have asked for a better qualification process under Thomas Tuchel, either. England were untouchable going forward and going the other way. They’ve got the players and they’ve got a winning manager. Will this finally be the year?

Group I – France, Scotland, Ghana, Australia

It could be good news for Scotland. The computer believes they’ll be drawn with France, Australia and Ghana. It would be an ideal draw for Steve Clarke’s men, who just defeated Denmark in dramatic fashion to qualify.

The fact they’ve reached the World Cup is an achievement in itself, but they won’t just be there to take part. In a group with France, who are likely to top the group, Australia and Ghana, they should expect to compete for a place in the knockouts.

Group J – Spain, Morocco, Paraguay, Jamaica

Drawn in a group with Morocco, Paraguay and Jamaica, Spain will be expected to dominate and send an early statement at the World Cup. They already have the Euros under their belt and will now be gunning for World Cup glory.

They’re a country full of great footballing history and many are backing them, led by the talent of Lamine Yamal, to create even more.

Group K – Portugal, Colombia, Qatar, Cape Verde

Group K, according to the supercomputer, will be centred around Cristiano Ronaldo and what is likely to be his final chance to win the World Cup. He’s watched as Messi has lifted it in dramatic style and will now be desperate to get his own glory to truly cement his Portugal legacy.

In a group with Luis Diaz’s Colombia and underdogs Qatar and Cape Verde, Ronaldo will be expected to shine.

Group L – Germany, South Korea, Panama, Wales

Whilst Germany likely ease to top spot, South Korea could grab second place in Group L. Up against Panama and playoff contenders Wales, they could have a routine run at second, assuming Germany take control.

The 2014 World Cup winners should be desperate to improve on their recent record and reclaim their throne, although they may have to stifle a Welsh side boosted by scoring seven times in their final qualifying game.

From local tournaments to the IPL, Arya has climbed steadily. His focus now is on making his Ranji debut

Daya Sagar22-Aug-2025Priyansh Arya, IPL 2025’s breakout star, has had a busy few months. There’s been no time to dwell on the “what ifs.”A day after losing the IPL final to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Ahmedabad, he was back in action in a local tournament in Delhi. Just two weeks later, he scored a century in the final, leading his team to the title at the DDCA Hot Weather Tournament.Now, at the Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2025, Arya has already notched up a century, tallying 267 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 171.It was at this very tournament last year that his life changed in ways he couldn’t have imagined. His six sixes in an over and a chart-topping season caught the attention of multiple IPL franchises, leading to a INR 3.8 crore deal with Punjab Kings (PBKS).Related

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“Money beyond imagination for the son of two government school teachers,” he told ESPNcricinfo recently.Arya had a stunning debut IPL season – his 475 runs, the most by an uncapped batter in a debut season (surpassing Devdutt Padikkal’s 473 in 2020), came at a blistering strike rate of 179.24. His 43-ball 102 against Chennai Super Kings was the third-fastest century by an Indian in IPL history.But even as his white-ball stock continues to rise, Arya’s eyes are on the red ball. His next big goal? A Ranji Trophy debut.”I wanted to play red-ball cricket, but my debut couldn’t happen then,” he says. “I hope it will happen this year. I really want to play Ranji – I’ve said this before. I’m excited for the upcoming domestic season and I’m working on a few things… which I can’t tell you right now (laughs).”Upon his return to the DPL a year after setting the inaugural edition alight, Arya has gone from rookie to poster boy of the league. At DPL and team events, amid many big names, it’s Arya who often draws the most attention. But he remains modest about the spotlight.”See, changes have come,” he admits. “Now, wherever I go, people recognise me and want to click pictures. It feels good. But I’m not someone who roams around a lot – I like to stay by myself.”After playing in the IPL, I haven’t changed my technique, playing style, or mindset. But yes, I expect a lot more from myself now. For example, my DPL performance hasn’t been as good as I wanted it to be.

“I wanted to play red-ball cricket, but my debut couldn’t happen then. I hope it will happen this year”Arya eyes Ranji Trophy debut

“Still, I never let that overpower me. I always stay positive and keep faith in myself. I try not to let negative thoughts enter my mind – I just keep trying to improve. Like, I’ve gotten out early in a few matches. I feel I need to take more time at the crease.”This self-awareness and introspection stem from having worked alongside top professionals, including PBKS head coach Ricky Ponting. When Arya was signed, his spot in the XI wasn’t guaranteed. But standout performances in practice games and the pre-season camp forced the team’s hand. He ended the season playing every single match.”I understand my game very well,” he says. “When PBKS held their camp, Ponting sir clearly told me the practice matches had to be taken seriously, there were many talented players around.”In the beginning, the management found it tough to decide who to pick. But I scored runs in those matches and almost sealed my place. Even then, I wasn’t directly told I would definitely play – but you get hints.”On debut against Gujarat Titans, Arya smashed 47 off 23 balls against international stars like Mohammed Siraj, Kagiso Rabada, and Rashid Khan – proof that his DPL success was no fluke. In his fourth match, he brought up his maiden IPL century, hitting three consecutive sixes off Matheesha Pathirana. He didn’t spare R Ashwin either.Priyansh Arya attributed PBKS coach Ricky Ponting to his game awareness•Punjab Kings”In the IPL, I never found it difficult to face any bowler,” he says matter-of-factly. “I felt I could play all of them. The same bowlers who play in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy also play in the IPL.”Most are domestic players. A few international bowlers are there too, but even in Mushtaq Ali, India’s international bowlers play. So, I didn’t feel much difference. Anyway, cricket is the same everywhere.”Arya lights up when asked about his most memorable IPL moment. It wasn’t one of his many sixes, it was a six off Jasprit Bumrah.”Over fine leg,” he chuckles. “It was an important match for us to make the top two. MI had given us a target of 185. When I was going out to bat in the second innings, Shreyas (Iyer) came up to me and said, ‘If you want to be known as a big-match player, score in this match and show it.'”Arya made 62 off 35 to turbocharge PBKS’ chase and take them into the Qualifier 1. Though he seems to have moved on from PBKS’ loss the final, he still wonders if he could’ve done more.”We had reached the final after 11 years, and this was my very first IPL,” he says. “I could’ve contributed a little more to the team, but I couldn’t. That regret will stay until we win the final next time.”Arya understands that the fame and attention he enjoys today come on the back of his IPL success. He’s well aware of how, not too long ago, he was a struggling middle-order batter in Under-19s, unable to break into the Under-23 side because of stiff competition.So he pivoted to opening – just to find a spot – and ended up making that role his own, first for Delhi’s T20 team and now for PBKS.From DPL to IPL, he’s shown he can rise to the occasion by adapting, evolving, and delivering when it mattered. Now, with a Ranji Trophy debut in sight, he’s ready for a new challenge that demands the same quiet belief that’s carried him this far.

The Houston Astros' battery of Framber Valdez and César Salazar were not on the same page during Tuesday night's 7-1 loss to the New York Yankees, leading to a strange moment. In the top of the fifth inning and facing a bases-loaded situation, Salazar tried at the last moment to get his lefthanded pitcher to step off the rubber instead of delivering a pitch but his desperate motioning was ignored as Valdez continued his delivery. The offering resulted in a Trent Grisham grand slam that ultimately put the game out of reach.

The next Yankees hitter up was Anthony Volpe and Valdez delivered a straight pitch when his catcher was expecting something with some bend in it, which caused a dangerous situation.

Now, cross-ups are fairly common in baseball. Considering the circumstances, though, people were left to wonder if something unusual was happening.

Valdez made it clear that this miscommunication was not intentional.

"What happened with us, we just got crossed up," Valdez said in Spanish through an interpreter after the game. "I called for that pitch, I threw it and we got crossed up. We went down to the dugout and I excused myself with him and I said sorry to him and I take full responsibility for that."

"We were able to talk through it," he added. "We spoke after the game … at his locker and everything's good between us. It's just stuff that happens in baseball. But yeah, we talked through it and we're good."

Salazar said after the game that crowd noise led to the mix-up:

All's well that ends well and it's a good thing Salazar wasn't injured. The Astros seem bound for the playoffs and it will be important everyone's on the same page going forward.

After yet another international break, the Premier League returns this weekend, and Arsenal can continue their title charge.

Mikel Arteta’s side sit four points clear atop the table and will be desperate to make up for dropping points away to Sunderland last time out.

The Gunners weren’t necessarily poor at the Stadium of Light, but aside from a few players, they certainly weren’t at their best.

With that said, one of the starters who played well was Leandro Trossard, although if reports are to be believed, Arsenal might be set to sign someone who could be an upgrade on him.

Arsenal target Trossard upgrade

If you were to ask Arsenal fans who their best players have been this season, you would likely get a lot of the usual suspects, like Declan Rice, Gabriel Magalhães and Jurrien Timber.

Transfer Focus

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

However, one player who has at least entered that conversation as of late is Trossard, who, unlike last year, is starting to influence games on a more regular basis.

For example, if he didn’t score that thunderbolt against the Black Cats, there is every chance the Gunners might’ve gone into the international break on the back of a defeat.

However, even though the Belgian has been a key contributor in the last month or so, the club appear keen on signing someone to compete with, or possibly replace him.

At least that is according to a recent report from Spain, which claims Arsenal have maintained their interest in Antoine Semenyo.

The report has revealed that, alongside the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City and Liverpool, the Gunners are vying for the Bournemouth star.

While the competition is far from ideal, the good news is that, according to another story from The Athletic, the Cherries star has a £65m release clause in his new contract, which will be active for part of January.

It could be a complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Semenyo’s immense talent, one worth fighting for, especially as he could be an upgrade on Trossard.

How Semenyo compares to Trossard

As they still produced the best defence in the league last season, Arsenal’s biggest problem, at least domestically, was their diminished goal threat.

Therefore, the first thing to compare between Trossard and Semenyo should be their output, as that is ultimately what a winger is judged on these days.

For his efforts so far this year, the Bournemouth star has scored six goals and provided three assists in 12 appearances, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.33 games, and helps to justify Chris Waddle’s claim that he’s currently “the best winger in the country.”

The Belgian, on the other hand, has racked up four goals and four assists in 14 appearances, which works out to a less impressive tally of a goal involvement every 1.75 games.

Unfortunately for the former Brighton & Hove Albion star, he still comes out as a distant second best when looking at their output last season.

For example, he produced 20 goal involvements in 56 games for a far better team, while the Cherries star produced as many goal involvements in just 42 games.

Okay, what about when you take a look under the hood, which winger has the better underlying numbers?

Expected G+As

0.46

0.36

Non-Penalty G+As

0.73

0.56

Progressive Passes

3.55

3.38

Progressive Carries

3.18

2.82

Shots on Target

1.09

0.56

Shot-Creating Actions

3.28

2.94

Goal-Creating Actions

0.64

0.28

Tackles Won

1.00

0.42

Successful Take-Ons

1.91

0.99

Unsurprisingly, it’s the Ghanaian international who once again emerges victorious, coming out on top in key metrics like expected goals plus assists, progressive passes and carries, successful take-ons, shot and goal-creating actions and more, all per 90.

Finally, there is also the simple fact that, at 25, the Bournemouth star has a lot more to offer compared to the 30-year-old, and would therefore be the smarter long-term option.

Ultimately, Trossard has been far better this season than last, but even so, it’s clear that Semenyo would be an upgrade on him, and therefore, Arsenal should go all out to sign the Cherries star in January.

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ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 18, 2025

A lot can change over the next two years, but as Australia and South Africa return to ODI cricket, these are some of key questions that will need answering

Andrew McGlashan and Firdose Moonda18-Aug-2025

Cameron Green will be a key figure in Australia’s ODI side for the next World Cup•Cricket Australia/Getty Images

The halfway point between ODI World Cups is approaching with the next edition to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia in late 2027. In Cairns on Tuesday, Australia and South Africa play their first matches in the format since the Champions Trophy, when they both exited in the semi-finals.Following that tournament, Steven Smith, Glenn Maxwell and Heinrich Klaasen have announced their retirements from ODIs – the latter from all white-ball internationals – and, as is often the case during World Cup cycles, there is a sense of renewal and rebuilding ahead of the next edition, where Australia will be the defending champions after their triumph in India.Since the 2023 World Cup, these two sides are at the lower end of the table in terms of ODIs played, and Australia in particular have rarely put their strongest side on the park, either because of workload management or injuries. Pat Cummins, who remains the official ODI captain, has only played two matches since that memorable day in Ahmedabad and will miss this series.A lot can change over the next two years – there is definitely a chance some players available now don’t make it all the way to 2027 – but with an eye on the future, here are some key questions from both sides.Head’s opening partner; Smith’s spotRelated

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Travis Head, the hero of Ahmedabad, should still be in his prime in 2027 but who will be alongside him at the top of the order is more of a question. Matt Short has had the early running and has shown glimpses, particularly his 63 against England in the Champions Trophy, but will miss this series due to a side injury, which has been worryingly slow to heal.Mitchell Marsh, who will captain against South Africa in Cummins’ absence, enjoyed considerable success opening in the lead-up to, and at, the last World Cup but there is always the lingering question over what his body will allow him to do in the years to come.In the middle order, Smith’s retirement has created a permanent vacancy, which will likely be taken by Cameron Green, who missed the Champions Trophy through injury. Green had a fill-in role at the 2023 World Cup but, providing he has no further setbacks, should be a central figure with bat and ball in 2027.Temba Bavuma has had to defy injury of late•Associated PressCan Bavuma reach 2027?South Africa’s regular ODI captain Temba Bavuma has made no secret of his desire to get to the home World Cup in two years’ time, but often caveats that with a clause about what his body will allow. Bavuma has suffered a spate of injuries in the last three years, mostly involving his elbow and his hamstrings, and was hampered by the latter during the recent World Test Championship final and the last ODI World Cup.He battled through both but continues to bat with heavily strapped elbows and at the age of 35 now, faces the real possibility of not physically being able to get to the 2027 tournament. That could mean his role over the next 12 months or so is a transitional but crucial one. Of South Africa’s squad in Australia, Bavuma has the highest ODI average and while he is not known as a quick run-scorer, he provides stability upfront and will be key to their build-up to the next World Cup.Aaron Hardie is among a group of allrounders in the mix for Australia•AFP/Getty ImagesHow do you replace Maxwell?You don’t find many cricketers like Maxwell, so this is an interesting one for the selectors. There is the loss of his dynamic, match-changing batting but there is also the vital balance he brought to the side with his offspin. In 2023, he was the second spinner alongside Adam Zampa (having been the lone spinner at the 2015 edition) and finding those overs will be important. It makes Short, who is a handy offspinner, a valuable player while the selectors are clearly keen to develop Cooper Connolly’s left-arm spin – he was a late addition to this squad after Mitchell Owen’s concussion. Head’s offspin remains a useful option while Marnus Labuschagne’s legspin has claimed useful wickets in the past year.Owen and Aaron Hardie, another injury replacement against South Africa, will be vying for an allrounder’s position over the next couple of years, while among those outside the current squad, Jack Edwards and Will Sutherland could also come into the mix. They provide seam bowling rather than spin although conditions in southern Africa may work in their favour.The next superstar?•Getty ImagesLife after KlaasenKlaasen’s international retirement leaves a power-hitting hole in South Africa’s middle order, not least because he has the highest strike rate for the team in ODIs and was named their ODI Player of the Year at the most recent Cricket South Africa awards.Though David Miller, who is second to Klaasen on the strike-rate charts, remains available, South Africa need to find someone else with six-hitting skills in the middle order and they may be looking to Dewald Brevis as the next big deal. Brevis was the leading run-scorer in the T20I series and, with only ten caps to his name, already holds the record for the highest individual score by a South Africa batter in the shortest format.His 125 not out in Darwin included 96 runs in boundaries and demonstrated a fearlessness South Africa’s coach Shukri Conrad wants his players to live by. The Miller-Brevis combination will not be on show at this series as Miller is currently playing in the Hundred, but the Australia matches are a good opportunity for Brevis, who is uncapped in ODIs, to show what he can do. To date, Brevis has played 25 List A matches, averages 48.40 in the format with a strike rate of 112.10, and was the second-highest run-scorer in the most recent domestic one-day cup, so there’s plenty to suggest he has what it takes to make the step up.Will it be one more time for this great trio?•ICC/Getty ImagesWill Australia’s big three all be there?Mitchell Starc will be 37 by the next ODI World Cup and Josh Hazlewood, who will play this series, 36. Starc has always said Test cricket will be the format he puts first and Australia have a huge period of that prior to the 2027 tournament. Cummins has tentatively indicated he has eyes on captaining again to defend the title but he, too, will be a key figure in a heavy Test run.Australia’s pace stocks are strong, although Lance Morris’ withdrawal from the South Africa series with another back problem is a concern and Jhye Richardson is still a long way off a potential return.However, Xavier Bartlett has made a very promising start and Nathan Ellis will have the chance to build on his T20 pedigree. It was eye-catching to see the inclusion of Tom Straker and Callum Vidler, recent members of the Under-19 set-up, in the Australia A one-day squad for the India tour next month and it’s possible that generation, which also includes Mahli Beardman, starts to emerge in time for 2027, although the following cycle is perhaps more realistic.South Africa need to fine-tune their bowling combination•AFP/Getty Images Specialist bowlers or allrounders for South Africa?Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi were not part of the T20I series as South Africa placed a premium on allrounders, but Maharaj is back for the ODIs, alongside Senuran Muthusamy and Prenelan Subrayen, which suggests there is still some experimentation on the go.Wiaan Mulder and Corbin Bosch make up the seam-bowling allrounder contingent and will likely compete for one spot in the absence of Marco Jansen, who is recovering from a thumb surgery and is not part of this squad.Jansen’s return will crowd the field even more, which leaves South Africa with a problem of plenty and a question of how to find the best combination. Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Kwena Maphaka and Nandre Burger are the specialist seamers, so there is a lot to work with and getting it right will be key before the title tilt at home.

Unai Emery hailed Morgan Rogers’ match-winning brace in Aston Villa’s 2-1 comeback win over Leeds – but warned the forward that his brilliance stemmed from being “hungry and angry” to deliver more goals. After a difficult start to the season, the England international erupted with a stunning performance that left his manager demanding even higher standards.

Rogers bags spectacular brace in Aston Villa's Leeds win

Aston Villa secured their sixth win in seven league matches as Rogers delivered a sensational brace to overturn an early Leeds lead at Elland Road. The 23-year-old equalised with an inventive near-post flick before stepping up again after the break to bury a superb free-kick, echoing Emi Buendia’s memorable strike against Bournemouth. His goals arrived at a crucial moment for a player who has been under scrutiny after a slow start to the 2025/26 season.

Rogers had entered the campaign facing heightened expectations following last year’s breakout, but his form initially dipped as Aston Villa adjusted tactically and opposition sides paid closer attention to him. His brace against Leeds, though, represented a decisive resurgence, reaffirming his importance to Emery’s system.

The Elland Road display came on the back of a confidence-boosting equaliser against Tottenham last month, suggesting Rogers is beginning to recover the sharpness that defined his 27-goal contributions last year. With Villa aiming for greater consistency in attack, the return of Rogers’ decisiveness could not have been better timed. His performance ensured Villa departed Leeds with momentum and renewed optimism.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportEmery wants Rogers to remain 'angry'

“Through numbers it is more brilliant and really relevant, his work today,” Emery said when speaking to reporters about Morgan. “His impact was positive with goals. Always he plays well. He does his task and he is versatile across different positions.

“Maybe today he showed that he is angry to score. Being angry, he scored two goals, focusing on how he could get numbers. He did it, helping the team and for our victory today. He is a player who can get numbers. Last year he got double numbers for goals and assists. This year I think he will get this again.

“He was playing fantastic before this match, not getting numbers, but helping the team. With those goals today, it’s more brilliant. I think Morgan is very important when he is scoring and when he is not scoring. He is working tactically, being versatile, and performing very consistently.”

Asked what he meant by angry, Emery said: “Hungry and angry to score. Both. It is in this direction.”

Emery opens up on Aston Villa's resurgence after poor start

Emery continued on to talk about Aston Villa's overall performance: “Overall, I am happy with the team. Through our structure, tactically, we were disciplined and organised. We played with personality. Each player felt comfortable in their best position and getting confidence.”

“There is still some work to do for some players, but how we are progressively getting better is really something I am proud of. I am very demanding in our way because now we are better in the table.”

“My message is the same. We are not contenders for the top six or top four. We fought fantastic to be there or competing for those positions. Now we want to do the same.”

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Getty/GOALAston Villa finally picking up form ahead of festive period

Rogers’ brace sets up a pivotal stretch in which Villa will look to maintain their form heading into a tightly packed December schedule. First off, they will face off against Young Boys on Thursday, November 27. They will then face off against Wolves and Brighton before a crucial test against Arsenal at Villa Park.

For Rogers, the challenge now is to turn a brilliant afternoon in Leeds into a sustained run of form after a testing start to the campaign. His underlying numbers have suggested a player close to finding rhythm, and the brace may prove the catalyst for an extended resurgence.

Bangladesh hope their spinners can test the tournament hosts in their last league game

Sruthi Ravindranath25-Oct-20254:21

Preview: Can Bangladesh upset India?

Big picture – India look to gather momentumIndia will walk into this fixture with a sense of relief and renewed confidence. Having already secured a place in the semi-finals, the pressure has shifted from qualification to maintaining momentum. After three games where things seemed to go awry, they finally hit top gear against New Zealand, led by a commanding performance from their batters.It’s not just that. The match will be played in Navi Mumbai – the venue for both India’s semi-final and the final – a ground India know well and one where they appear to have found their ideal template. After several games of tinkering with combinations, they seemed to get it right against New Zealand, reverting to five-bowler setup, leaving allrounder Amanjot Kaur out. The move to promote the returning Jemimah Rodrigues to No. 3 also paid off, and that could open the door for further experimentation against Bangladesh.India’s bowlers backed the batters up with precision. The seamers struck early, and the rest of the attack ensured New Zealand never recovered, forcing errors and maintaining pressure throughout.Related

A big-hitter in a small world – new-age Shorna turns heads

The middle order was not tested but with knockout games approaching, time in the middle for those players could be invaluable. India have batted first in five matches so far and chased only once – losing that game to England by four runs – so they may also be tempted to test themselves in a chase, should they win the toss, to round out their preparation.For Bangladesh, this is a chance to upset one of the tournament favourites and prove they belong on this stage. They’ve run stronger sides close in at least three games and have relied on their disciplined bowling attack, their biggest strength all tournament. There have been flashes of resistance with the bat, and if they can sustain those longer, they have a chance of stretching India.Form guideIndia WLLLW
Bangladesh LLLLLIn the spotlight – Renuka Singh and Bangladesh’s legspinnersIndia will look once again to Renuka Singh for early breakthroughs. Against New Zealand, she delivered exactly that. Having missed the matches against Australia and South Africa, and gone wicketless in her two previous outings, Renuka rediscovered her rhythm in Navi Mumbai. Exploiting the early movement on offer, she teamed up with Kranti Gaud to keep New Zealand in check, not conceding a single boundary in the first six overs. Her efforts were rewarded with the wickets of Georgia Plimmer and Sophie Devine, both undone by sharp in-duckers. She finished with figures of 2 for 25 from her six overs – a spell that set the tone for India’s dominance.Rabeya Khan and Shorna Akter will be key to Bangladesh’s hopes•BCBCan Bangladesh’s legspinning duo of Rabeya Khan and Shorna Akter trouble India’s batters? The pair injected energy and control into their attack against Sri Lanka, bowling tirelessly in the Navi Mumbai heat. Their discipline through the middle overs stifled scoring opportunities and built pressure. Rabeya provided the key breakthrough, removing the dangerous Chamari Athapaththu and halting Sri Lanka’s momentum, while Shorna struck twice, dismissing Hasini Perera and Nilakshika Silva, to help restrict the opposition to just 202.Team newsRicha Ghosh copped a blow to her left hand while keeping against New Zealand and was off the field during much of their chase, with Uma Chetry taking the gloves. On the eve of the Bangladesh game, bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi said Ghosh was “fine and the S&C team is taking care of it,” but India were “still discussing” her availability. India went back to their five-bowler strategy in the match against New Zealand, leaving allrounder Amanjot out, and they are likely to persist with that winning combination.India (probable): 1 Smriti Mandhana, 2 Pratika Rawal, 3 Harleen Deol, 4 Harmanpreet Kaur (capt), 5 Jemimah Rodrigues, 6 Richa Ghosh (wk), 7 Deepti Sharma, 8 Sneh Rana, 9 Renuka Singh, 10 Kranti Gaud, 11 Shree Charani.Sharmin Akter walked off battling cramps during Bangladesh’s chase against Sri Lanka but came back to bat in the final over. There are no injury concerns in the side.Bangladesh (probable): 1 Fargana Hoque, 2 Rubya Haider, 3 Sharmin Akhter, 4 Nigar Sultana (capt & wk), 5 Sobhana Mostary, 6 Ritu Moni, 7 Shorna Akter, 8 Nahida Akter, 9 Rabeya Khan, 10 Nishita Akter, 11 Marufa Akter.Pitch and conditionsThe pitch remained covered on the eve of the game with rain in the air. There’s rain forecast for Sunday evening as well. The surface has generally aided batting, while fast bowlers have tended to get early movement.Stats that matter Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal have 1557 partnership runs between them across 20 innings in 2025, the second-most by any pair in ODIs in a calendar year. Only Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly are ahead, with 1635 runs in 29 innings in 1998. Kranti Gaud has 22 wickets in 13 ODIs so far. These are the most by an India bowler in her debut year in Women’s ODIs and only three overall have taken more – Charmaine Mason (25 in 1997), Aimee Watkins (23 in 2002) and Lyn Fullston (23 in 1982). Bangladesh’s bowlers have an economy rate of 4.54 in this World Cup, the same as England’s.

The Padres are set for some significant changes this offseason, but those likely won't be coming at the top of the organization.

Despite a disappointing playoff exit in the wild-card round against the Cubs, key pieces of the organization will reportedly remain in place. Kevin Acee of the is reporting that president of baseball operations, A.J. Preller, and manager Mike Shildt are expected to return for the 2026 season.

From Acee's report:

After the Padres fell to the Cubs in three games, there were questions about Preller's future with the franchise. He had the full backing of former owner Peter Seidler, who died in November of 2023, but now that his brother, John Seidler, runs the team, his position seemed far less secure. It appears Preller will continue in his position for the foreseeable future after guiding the Padres to the postseason in four of the last six seasons.

Shildt replaced Bob Melvin as San Diego's manager before the 2024 season, and the team has topped 90 wins and reached the playoffs in each of his first two years in charge. While just making the postseason is no longer the expectation for the franchise, Shildt has done a solid job so far.

Padres Face Major Changes This Offseason

San Diego has several key players likely set to leave this winter. Starting pitcher Dylan Cease, first baseman Luis Arraez, and trade deadline pickup Ryan O'Hearn are all set for free agency. Meanwhile, closer Robert Suarez and starter Michael King can both opt out of their contracts and are widely expected to do so. Lefty Nestor Cortes and utility infielder Jose Iglesias are also free agents.

With so many pieces likely leaving, Preller will have his hands full attempting to build a championship-caliber roster for 2026. Given the team's payroll constraints, there may not be much room to add this offseason.

One thing the Padres don't have to worry about is fan support. San Diego finished second in attendance in 2025, welcoming a record 3,437,201 fans to Petco Park. The team sold out 72 of its 81 home games, which was also a record.

The Padres have a core built around Manny Machado, Fernando Tatis Jr., Jackson Merrill, and Xander Bogaerts, plus 2025 additions Mason Miller and Nick Pivetta. The return of Joe Musgrove from elbow surgery should help as well. There's a solid foundation there.

San Diego's biggest challenge will be adding more punch to its lineup next season. The team ranked 22nd in slugging (.390) and 28th in home runs (152) during the regular season. That lack of pop reared its ugly head against Chicago in the wild-card round, when the top three in the team's lineup, Tatis, Arraez, and Machado, combined to go 4-for-33 (.121) with one home run. The team's offense needs more depth.

With continuity at the top, building for 2026 should be easier.

Championship captain resists temptation to become T20 specialist, but could miss early fixtures if selected in IPL auction

Matt Roller13-Nov-2025Jonny Bairstow has signed a new three-year contract that will see him continue as Yorkshire’s captain in the County Championship but possibly miss the first two months of next season to play in the IPL.Bairstow’s two-year central contract only expired at the end of the 2025 season, more than a year after his most recent England appearance, and he has committed his long-term future to his boyhood club. At 36, he has resisted the temptation to become a T20 specialist and instead will continue to lead Yorkshire in the Championship after his appointment as captain this year.However, Bairstow could miss the first block of fixtures next year if selected in the IPL auction. Under the league’s regulations, he is not available for retention by Mumbai Indians after scores of 47 and 38 in his two appearances as a late replacement this year, but ESPNcricinfo has learned that he plans to enter the auction for 2026, which is expected to be held next month.Yorkshire finished seventh in Division One of the Championship last year and second-bottom of the North Group in the T20 Blast, though did reach the semi-finals of the Metro Bank Cup with a young side.Gavin Hamilton, their director of cricket, said he was “absolutely delighted” that Bairstow had committed to a long-term contract. “Jonny remains one of the best batters in the English game, capable of changing a game single-handedly, and we are very lucky to have him in our side,” he said.Bairstow has been at Headingley this week for pre-season fitness testing but will spend much of his winter playing overseas, with contracts lined up with MI Emirates in the ILT20 and Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the SA20.”I’m delighted to have signed a contract extension and am looking forward to playing my part in what is a hugely exciting period for Yorkshire,” Bairstow said. “Having come through the age-groups and spent all of my career here, it was the only real choice for me, and I’ll continue to wear the White Rose with pride over the next three years.”Leading the side in the Championship this year was a real honour, and I can’t wait to get back out there in 2026. The performances we put in, particularly in the second half of the campaign, were very encouraging and I am confident that we have got a group of players that can challenge the very best teams over the next few years.”