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Manchester City had a catastrophic 2024/25 campaign. Pep Guardiola’s side went trophyless, finishing third in the Premier League and losing the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace. It was far from the dominance they have shown under the legendary Spanish manager over the past few years.

Naturally, it has been a busy summer transfer window already for the East Mancunian outfit. The Citizens have dipped into the market four times to strengthen in all areas of the pitch and improve their fortunes ahead of next term.

Indeed, Goal noted the prices for three of their four signings so far, with Marcus Bettinelli joining from Chelsea for an undisclosed fee. Rayan Cherki cost £34m from Lyon, Tijani Reijnders was £46m from AC Milan, and Rayan Ait-Nouri joined from Wolverhampton Wanderers for £31m.

Those four are options for Guardiola’s side going into the first three games of the Premier League season. They start off with a trip to Ait-Nouri’s old hunting ground at Molineux, before hosting Tottenham Hotspur and travelling down to Brighton and Hove Albion for the final game of August.

But, what might the rest of City’s side look like ahead of their first game of the season against Wolves and beyond? Well, here’s a look at what their dream squad could look like in 2025/26 if everything goes according to plan.

The goalkeepers Ederson stays as City's number 1

City made one signing in the goalkeeper department already, with Bettinelli joining from West London giants Chelsea. He joins Ederson and Stefan Ortega as shot-stopping options for Guardiola next season.

Brazil international Ederson was the first choice last season, and conceded 26 goals in as many Premier League games, keeping ten clean sheets along the way. He did struggle with injuries at times and was sidelined for eight games in total.

One of the real upsides to Ederson is his ability with the ball at his feet. This is perhaps best showcased by the fact that he assisted four goals, including this sublime ball to Erling Haaland against Chelsea, which was well finished by the striker.

As for Ortega, the 32-year-old played 13 Premier League games, but conceded 18 goals in that time. In the Champions League, he kept a clean sheet in both appearances last term. He is certainly an excellent number two for Guardiola to have at his disposal.

Full list of goalkeepers – Ederson, Stefan Ortega, Marcus Bettinelli.

The defenders New full-back options for Pep on both sides

If there is one area of the pitch that City are certainly not short of options, it is in defence. They have incredible versatility, with Josko Gvardiol being the best example. He predominantly played as a left-back last season and chipped in with six goals across all competitions, as per Transfermarkt. In reality, he is more naturally a centre-back.

He is one of three main options at left-back for City, with Ait-Nouri also offering an excellent attacking outlet. He contributed four goals and seven assists for the Old Gold last season. Nico O’Reilly is a less experienced option, but he excelled last season, too. Naturally a number 10, he managed five goals and two assists in all competitions.

On the right flank, City have recently been linked with Denzel Dumfries by one Spanish outlet. He is said to have a £21.5m release clause, with City currently deciding whether ‘to take a chance’ on the Dutchman. His contributions in the Champions League semi-final last season, across both legs, were memorable.

With Kyle Walker now officially a Burnley player, Matheus Nunes and Rico Lewis are the only other right-backs at the club. Both like to invert into midfield, which is no surprise for Nunes, given he is, by trade, a midfielder.

At centre-back, City have not made any new inclusions since the January window, where they signed Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis.

Ruben Dias played 44 times last season and Manuel Akajani 40, suggesting they are the first-choice options for Guardiola. However, he still has the experience of John Stones and Nathan Ake to call upon.

Full list of right-backs – Denzel Dumfries, Matheus Nunes, Rico Lewis

Full list of centre-backs – RCB (Manuel Akanji, Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis, Jahmai Simpson-Pusey); LCB (Ruben Dias, John Stones, Nathan Ake)

Full list of left-backs – Josko Gvardiol, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Nico O’Reilly

The midfield Rodri's return and KDB's replacement

The huge news in the centre of the park for City recently is that Rodri is back from his long-term injury. The current Ballon d’Or holder misses several months of the season, making just eight appearances. His involvement, or lack thereof, was noticeable in City’s torrid campaign.

City’s new addition in midfield this summer is Reijnders, who featured three times in the Club World Cup, with Nico Gonzalez, a January addition, also an option for the East Mancunians. He was dubbed a “mini Rodri” earlier in the season by his manager.

Transfer Focus

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

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There is plenty of experience in the middle of midfield, too. Treble-winning captain Ilkay Gundogan is remaining at the club this summer. He played 54 times in 2024/25, two more than new club captain Bernardo Silva.

City also have Mateo Kovacic to call upon, who played a huge role last season in Rodri’s absence. Kalvin Phillips is still at the club, but after spending the last one and a half seasons out on loan, it doesn’t seem likely he will stay.

In the number 10 spot, this is where things get interesting for City. Kevin De Bruyne has now, of course, departed the club, joining Napoli, meaning someone has to step up in his absence, not at all an easy thing to do.

Perhaps that will be Phil Foden. The England international was not at his best this season, contributing to 13 goals and seven assists in 49 appearances. However, there is no doubt about his quality. This is a former PFA Player of the Year we are talking about. He could be the guy City are looking for to step up in De Bruyne’s absence this season.

Alternatively, City had been linked with Morgan Gibbs-White. Football Insider claimed the player ‘has agreed personal terms’ ahead of a possible move but he’s now on his way to Spurs instead

The 25-year-old was sensational for Forest last season, scoring seven times and grabbing ten assists in just 34 league games. That included a superb headed effort against Leicester City.

With Gibbs-White seemingly off the table, Foden is not the only option Guardiola has in the number 10 role. Youngsters Oscar Bobb and Claudio Echeverri, who made his debut in the FA Cup final, are also attacking midfielders he could call upon. The future of James McAtee, who scored seven times last season, is up in the air.

Full list of central midfielders – Rodri, Tijani Reijnders, Nico Gonzalez, Bernardo Silva, Ilkay Gundogan, Mateo Kovacic.

Full list of attacking midfielders – Phil Foden, Oscar Bobb, Claudio Echeverri, James McAtee

The attackers Versatility and a new look front 3

One of the best things about this City team is the versatility they possess, and that is personified throughout the attack. Number nine, Erling Haaland, is the player who can only play in one role. Of course, when you have someone of his quality up front, that is no problem. He scored 34 goals in 48 games last season.

Omar Marmoush, however, is an incredibly versatile player. Another January signing, the Egyptian attacker can play on either flank, as a centre-forward or a second striker. He played 25 games for the Citizens in 2024/25, scoring eight times and assisting three.

On the right-hand side, City fans can surely get excited about watching Rayan Cherki. The 21-year-old Frenchman is an electric attacker who can play as a number 10 or on the right wing. Last season for City and Lyon, he contributed to 13 goals and 21 assists in 48 games.

Just look at his underlying numbers on FBref from the last 365 days. He averaged 8.88 progressive passes and 6.8 shot-creating actions per game. Both of those numbers place him in the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers.

Cherki key stats and rank over the last year

Stat (per 90)

Number

Percentile rank

Goals and assists

0.95

97th

Progressive passes

8.88

99th

Key passes

3.69

99th

Shot-creating actions

6.8

99th

Take-ons completed

2.5

90th

Stats from FBref

Brazilian Savinho is another option on the right-hand side for Guardiola. He managed to score three goals and registered an impressive 13 assists in all competitions, and can also play on the left-hand side if need be.

Speaking of the opposite flank, Real Madrid star Rodrygo, described as a “future icon” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, could be on his way to the Etihad Stadium. TBR Football recently confirmed that the Brazilian’s representatives ‘have now been in discussions’ with City over a move.

It would not come cheap, with one Spanish outlet suggesting Los Blancos would want upwards of £77m for their winger. In 2024/25, he scored 14 goals and assisted 11, including six Champions League goals, bringing his tally for the competition up to 25.

Jeremy Doku is another option for City on the left. A brilliant one-vs-one winger, he contributed to 17 goals last season and adds a unique element to Guardiola’s attack. Jack Grealish would also be someone who can slot in on the left-hand side, but he fell out of favour at City and seems set to leave the club.

Full list of strikers – Erling Haaland, Omar Marmoush.

Full list of wingers – Rayan Cherki, Savinho, Rodrygo, Jeremy Doku.

Related Bigger talent than Reijnders: Pep driving Man City move for £43m sensation

Following the arrival of Tijjani Reijnders, Man City still want to bolster their midfield options, reportedly interested in making a £43m signing.

Posts ByBen Gray Jul 4, 2025

Sunderland now know who they will face in their opening set of Premier League fixtures.

It will have suddenly become very real for those with connections to the Black Cats when looking at the list of clubs Regis Le Bris’ men will soon face, with August throwing up fixtures against West Ham United, Burnley, and Brentford to kick off their daunting top-flight survival mission.

Le Bris will hope his newly promoted side can steadily adjust to their intimidating level, with plenty of signings still needed to help keep their heads above water.

Sunderland have already had success in this department when securing the permanent services of Enzo Le Fee, but another midfield talent might soon join the ranks to link up with the skilful Frenchman.

Sunderland monitoring bargain midfielder

As per a report by OnTheMinute, Sunderland are now monitoring the situation of Clermont Foot midfielder Habib Keita.

The report states that Keita has become a much sought-after talent after impressing in Ligue 2, with QPR, Stoke City and Crystal Palace all said to be keeping tabs on the promising 23-year-old.

Valued at just £1.2m via Transfermarkt, this could go down as another steal utilising the French market, much like when Le Fee joined the building initially on loan.

How Keita can be Le Bris' next Le Fee

With Jobe Bellingham also now gone, which has left a considerable hole in the midfield areas, this would be a shrewd pick-up as Sunderland attempt to acclimatise back to the challenges of the Premier League.

After all, Le Bris has presumably had the Malian on his radar for quite some time now, with the ex-Lorient boss no doubt a keen fan of the 23-year-old when still situated in the managerial dug-outs of his native France.

Much like Le Fee at Le Bris’ ex-employers, Keita would have been viewed as an exciting talent when rising through the Lyon ranks as a youngster.

But, in a similar fashion to the now Sunderland number 28, his career hasn’t been without its obstacles, resulting in the midfielder moving out to Belgium after exiting the Groupama Stadium, before returning to France reinvigorated with Clermont Foot.

Last season, even as his Ligue 2 employers struggled in 16th position in the league standings, Keita still managed to come away from the campaign with a goal and four assists to his name, meaning he might well thrive in another basement battle to follow with Sunderland.

Games played

27

15

Goals scored

1

1

Assists

4

1

Touches*

52.1

55.8

Accurate passes*

31.1 (85%)

28.5 (84%)

Key passes*

0.8

1.3

Big chances created

6

2

Ball recoveries*

5.3

3.6

Total duels won*

4.6

5.5

The table above certainly reinforces the idea that Keita could go on to be an even better talent under Le Bris’ wing, like Le Fee, with the midfield duo notching up similar numbers when comparing their statistics from last season, as seen in their similar passing numbers.

But, away from their ability to carve out an opening, the midfield pairing also excel as energetic bodies, with a high amount of duels won, which will come in handy as games become more attritional and tensely fought in the Premier League.

Much like Le Fee too, who can happily line up down the wings away from slotting in the middle of the park, Keita is also capable of being flexible with eight of his overall career appearances seeing him come into an XI as a number ten, alongside another four clashes where he’s been deployed down the right flank.

The worry will just be if the Malian can instantly hit the ground running in his new terrain. But, if Le Fee is anything to go by, Keita might well be the next sensational capture from Le Bris’ homeland.

Sunderland in advanced talks to sell "fantastic" 22 y/o in permanent deal

Would moving him on be the right decision?

ByHenry Jackson Jun 22, 2025

Chelsea have now identified an “exceptional” defender as a priority summer target after holding internal talks, according to a report.

Blues planning to sign two defenders this summer

The Blues still have everything to play for as the Premier League season approaches its conclusion, with the final-day trip to Nottingham Forest set to be crucial in the race for the top five, given that Nuno’s side, Aston Villa and Manchester City are breathing down their necks.

Barring the 2-0 loss at Newcastle United, Enzo Maresca’s side have performed well during the run-in, and the manager has been pleased with the progress Levi Colwill has made, despite admitting he may need to bring in more experienced players this summer.

When questioned about the prospect of adding experience to his squad this summer, much like Jurgen Klopp did by signing Virgil van Dijk and Alisson for Liverpool, Maresca said: “For sure, if you want to close the gap with these kind of clubs then, you have to do things.”

As such, a range of centre-back targets have been identified ahead of the summer, and it is clear the manager is looking to blend youth and experience.

Player

Current club

Potential cost

Mario Gila

Lazio

£25m

Axel Tape

PSG

£0

Ben Nelson

Leicester City

Unknown

Marc Guehi

Crystal Palace

£60m

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Chelsea are also stepping up their pursuit of Ajax’s Jorrel Hato, with the defender now considered a priority target following internal discussions about their summer transfer plans.

There is a feeling that a fee of £37.8m – £42m could be enough to get a deal done, so a move for Hato would not break the bank, and he is now rapidly moving up the Blues’ shortlist.

The likes of Liverpool, AC Milan and Arsenal could provide competition for the 19-year-old’s signature, but the west Londoners are looking to move swiftly to ensure they remain in the lead.

Hato could be "exceptional" signing for the Blues

The report states that Chelsea are looking to bring in two centre-backs this summer, and it is little wonder the youngster is now one of their favoured options, given the level of some of his performances for Ajax since breaking into the team at a young age.

Football scout Ben Mattinson has been left particularly impressed by the teenager in the past, stating on X: “Hato is an exceptional athlete for his age whilst being a technical player who can carry through the lines.”

Chelsea looking to sign "composed" defender who Maresca thinks is "perfect"

The Blues have set their sights on a centre-back, with Enzo Maresca believed to be a keen admirer.

1 ByDominic Lund May 18, 2025

Not only that, but the Rotterdam-born defender is an assured passer of the ball, which could make him a good fit for Maresca, ranking in the top 1% for his pass-completion rate per 90 over the past year, when compared to other full-backs.

Indeed, Hato is capable of playing at left-back, having featured there predominantly during the 2024-25 campaign, but he has also featured at centre-back throughout his career, and his versatility would be an added bonus for the Blues.

Whether or not you agree on the matter that Arsenal have regressed this season, there is one undeniable statement that no one can argue with.

The Gunners need more firepower to take them to the next level in the 2025/26 campaign.

Just over a year ago when Mikel Arteta’s men were dumped out of the Champions League by Bayern Munich, there was an admission that Arsenal were lacking a bit in the forward department. That was even with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.

A year later, they travelled to Paris, seeking to reach their first Champions League final since 2006. Unsurprisingly, they exited the competition. Arteta and skipper Martin Odegaard spoke after the game about how the tie was won in both boxes. PSG were better in those areas, and there was once again an admission they didn’t have much in attack.

“Usually in the box there are strikers”, Arteta remarked, noting how Arsenal have been forced to play with Mikel Merino up top instead of the injury-stricken Jesus and Havertz.

A year on from their previous exit from the competition, somehow their forward line looked even worse. If they are to progress next term, then signing more forwards is of utmost importance.

How Arsenal could strengthen their forward line

Name an attacker, and it’s likely they’ve been linked with Arsenal in recent weeks and months.

Of course, the number one priority for Arsenal is Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, with the BBC’s Sami Mokbel revealing only a few days ago that he is ‘the dream target’. Yet, as we know, any move is complicated by the Magpies’ astronomical asking price.

As such, Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko are two alternatives. In short, Arsenal have no excuse given the number of options out there on the market this summer.

It’s not just in that centre-forward Berth where Arteta needs recruits. Despite talk of an extended contract for Leandro Trossard in recent days, they need improvement on the left wing and once more, there are a plethora of options.

Transfer Focus

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

Arsenal are reportedly the favourites to sign Borussia Dortmund’s English winger Jamie Gittens while their dream target in this position, according to the Daily Mail, is Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams.

But there’s a spicy alternative in the form of AC Milan’s Rafael Leao, who the Mail reported on Saturday is on the club’s shortlist.

A separate report from Italy has also spoken of Arsenal’s interest in the Portuguese forward.

They claim that while Chelsea are also in the running and have been in contact with the Serie A side, Arsenal have entered the race now too, ‘taking information’ on the player as they prepare a move.

It’s reported that new sporting director Andrea Berta has personally placed him on the club’s shortlist as one of his first pieces of business.

With Arsenal needing to recruit a few big-name players this summer, one sticking point could be Leao’s €100m (£85m) valuation.

How Rafael Leao would improve Arsenal

Arsenal need a winger and they need one ASAP. Take one look at the PSG tie and the difference in wing play, most notably on the opposite side to Bukayo Saka was stark.

While Arteta had an uncertain Gabriel Martinelli there, spurning chances and failing to get the better of Achraf Hakimi, the Parisiens had Georgian superstar Kvicha Kvaratskhelia. A demonic presence in attack, his relentless speed, close control, and dribbling ability make him an absolute nightmare for any defender. He’s unpredictable and boasts the talent to go on either side.

It’s something that, Saka aside, Arsenal don’t have much of: unpredictability.

In Leao, they’d be finding that. The scorer of 12 goals and the assister of 13 so far this season, in the words of data analyst Ben Mattinson, the left winger is “absolutely perfect for game-breaking moments” and he’s also “a winger who brings fear to defences.” In that sense, he’s a lot like the aforementioned Kvaratskhelia.

But, there’s another mighty fine comparison we want to touch on here. Back in 2022, Milan coach Stefano Pioli said: “Leao reminds me a lot of the early Thierry Henry, who started wide then came inside.”

Well, as far as Arsenal fans are concerned, it surely doesn’t get much better than that? Henry left the Gunners behind as their club-record scorer and they’ve been searching, dreaming of finding someone with similar traits.

Like Henry, Leao has an incredible burst of pace and boasts a similiar languid playing style to Henry that gave them the opportunity to use their long strides to glide past players. Interestingly, they both stand at 6 foot 2, only emphasising the comparison further.

They’ve got that same trademark style as well. Milan’s star winger loves to race down the left before cutting inside onto his favoured right foot. While Martinelli has tried to learn that attribute, he still leaves plenty to be desired, as the numbers indicate.

Goals

0.31

0.31

Assists

0.31

0.18

Key passes

2.27

1.63

Progressive passes

3.61

2.07

Shot-creating actions

4.43

2.91

Successful take-ons

2.31

1.41

Progressive carries

4.82

4.93

Carries into final 3rd

2.78

1.32

Aerial duels won

1.02

0.66

Looking at the metric above it’s perhaps unsurprising to leave that Leao, aged 25, is two years older than Martinelli, but this difference in quality is why Arsenal need to sign a new winger.

The Portugal international may boast the same goalscoring ability but he’s far more creative and, as we can see from the carrying numbers, he’s far more likely to not only get at the defence, but he’s more likely to succeed in doing so. As Mattinson says, he’s a truly scary proposition.

Arsenal’s biggest priority this summer must be signing a striker but in Leao, they’d be able to get their hands on one of the best left wingers in Europe.

Vini & Yamal hybrid: Arsenal could sign 'one of the world's best dribblers'

The brilliant winger would be unreal for Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes May 10, 2025

Celtic could reportedly now complete the signing of an “excellent” player this summer, having missed out on snapping him up in the January transfer window.

Celtic eye signings amid doubts over Rodgers' future

The Hoops are preparing to make the trip to St Johnstone this weekend, as they look to go one step closer to Scottish Premiership title glory. They have a 13-point lead over Rangers currently, so it surely feels like a matter of time until they are once again crowned champions.

In terms of potential summer signings to further bolster Brendan Rodgers’ squad, Celtic are believed to be pushing to sign Royal Antwerp forward Michel-Ange Balikwisha, with the manager a big fan of him.

Speaking of Rodgers, one new report that has emerged has claimed that he “could quit” the Hoops at the end of the season, amid possible interest from clubs in the Premier League.

It is stated that the 52-year-old is “content at Parkhead as things stand”, but there doesn’t appear to be any guarantee that he will be in charge of Celtic when next season gets underway, especially if he does not receive backing in the transfer market.

Celtic plan to back the boss with £4.2m long-term target

According to TuttoMercatoWeb [via Sport Witness], there is still belief that Celtic could sign David Strelec from Slovan Bratislava this summer. The Hoops attempted to sign him at the eleventh hour in the January window, but were unable to entice him to the club midway through the season.

The 24-year-old could be available for as little as £4.2m at the end of the season though, potentially rising to £5.9m, with offers expected to come his way.

Strelec could be a potent addition to Celtic’s attack, which is needed after the surprise departure of Kyogo Furuhashi back in January. The Slovakian has enjoyed an impressive season for Bratislava, scoring three times in the Champions League qualifiers before also finding the net twice in the main competition itself.

Strelec has proven his worth at international level, too, scoring seven goals in 28 caps for Slovakia, while scout/writer Jacek Kulig has hailed him as an “excellent” player.

The striker ticks so many boxes for Celtic, at a time when Rodgers will want more firepower added to his squad, not least his age. Strelec turned 24 on Friday, meaning he now has plenty of experience at a good level, but is still a young player whose peak shouldn’t arrive for another few years.

£15k-p/w Celtic star could leave this summer with lucrative offer on table

Brendan Rodgers may lose one of his stars at Celtic this summer.

BySean Markus Clifford Apr 3, 2025

He is an attacking player with genuine pedigree, and if Celtic were able to snap him up for as little as £4.2m, it could be a superb piece of business. That said, £5.9m is still hardly paying over the odds for a player of his quality.

Every part of his game is geared not just towards batting, but to the purpose behind it

Sidharth Monga20-Jun-2025

Yashasvi Jaiswal brought up his fifth Test hundred•PA Images/Getty Images

Yashasvi Jaiswal is insatiable. When he is training in Talegaon in Maharashtra at the Rajasthan Royals High Performance Centre, he can go through more than 100 overs of batting in one day. That’s sidearm, normal bowling, manual throwing, all by different people from different angles with little or no break. In a two-hour net session with teams he is with, he can hog one net for upwards of an hour. He has been talked into being more mindful of other players’ needs, which he has respected. So now he just waits for others to finish and takes the deliverers of balls back into the net at the end of the training.A day before the Headingley Test, after all the media work had been done, all the reels made, he was there in the corner net with net bowlers and one sidearm thrower from the team. Those who work with him worry they need to find ways to help him sustain this voracious appetite despite the lean frame, and a historic nutritional deficiency from when he grew up all alone, far away from home in Mumbai.With some batters, this obsessive nature can be detrimental, but Jaiswal has that balance right. He bats for the business of scoring runs not to perfect batting. He knows how to score runs. In a short career, he has played innings of markedly different tempo and method. As Rahul Dravid, the former India coach, told me once, Jaiswal says in almost every innings “I like scoring runs, I know how to score runs and I’ll do whatever it takes to score runs – sometimes bat aggressively, sometimes bat defensively, sometimes play from middle stump, sometimes play from outside leg stump”.Related

Stokes repents in late spell after India capitalise on England's bowl-first call

England the next stop in Jaiswal's audacious journey

By the afternoon drinks break on his first day of Test cricket in England, though, Jaiswal’s obsessiveness had begun to catch up with him. The support staff gave his arm under the arm guard a rubdown. His leading arm was cramping three hours into his innings on a pleasant day in Leeds.It had already been an innings in which he had had to change his method dramatically. Jaiswal was 67 off 112 then, but he had had spurts: 19 off 20, then just 12 off 39, then 26 balls in the 40s. England weren’t great with the brand-new ball, Jaiswal had no qualms flashing at them, but when they started bowling straight at his body, his limitations on the leg side showed up.In the first 20 balls that Jaiswal faced, only two balls swung or seamed in. He relished the room and the angle away. Then they started attacking the stumps more with a leg slip in place: 24 swung in or seamed in off the next 92. Add to it Josh Tongue’s angle from around the wicket, tucking him up, hitting him on the body.Jaiswal’s control percentage was 90 in the first 20 balls, it fell to 71 for the next 92 balls. One of the reasons for low control numbers was that he kept missing the cut, but he was going so hard at it that it is hard to see how an edge would go to hand. Otherwise, he just fought through the period, keeping the pull and fend away even as Ben Stokes moved to one of the Bazball fields.Yashasvi Jaiswal loves to bat and bat and bat•AFP/Getty ImagesAnd then came the cramps. Almost unnoticed, the intent went up as he realised he couldn’t keep fighting all day. The first ball after that drinks break was also the first ball of spin. You would imagine a forward-defensive to this full ball – 4.4m in front of the stumps – from almost any other batter, but Jaiswal hung back and managed to cut it for four. A flurry of runs, not visibly hurried, followed. Tongue was upper-cut for six, Shoaib Bashir lofted back over his head. By the time he reached the 90s, Jaiswal had had medical attention three times.The third of those came after a ferocious attempt at a cut that he missed. The umpires had a quiet word with him. Probably telling him he had to make a choice: play on without regular assistance or retire. Just like that, out came two dismissive shots through the covers to reach 99. Then the single to get to a hundred in his first Tests in the West Indies, Australia and England to go with an 80 in his first in India.It wasn’t a free-flowing innings. It had phases of brilliance, spells of knuckling down, and just the sheer physical battle with himself. Only ten of the 101 runs he scored came on the leg side. The limited range of his strokes on the leg side has always been a focus, but not to this extent. He completely shelved the pull and the hook, and sweated on any room. There were periods he was denied room, but he was prepared to wait it out.It was only when he began to cramp that an element of manufacturing shots appeared. It was just exceptional understanding of how to score runs and manage risk. Managing his body and his voracious appetite for hitting balls is an aspect he will still have to look at.

Which big name will Scorchers go for, who will the defending champions retain and how can Sixers replace Ecclestone?

Alex Malcolm01-Sep-2023

Adelaide Strikers

Current list: Jemma Barsby, Darcie Brown, Katie Mack, Tahlia McGrath, Annie O’Neil, Madeline Penna, Megan Schutt, Amanda Jade-WellingtonLast playing XI Katie Mack, Laura Wolvaardt, Tahlia McGrath (capt), Bridget Patterson, Madeline Penna, Tegan McPharlin (wk), Amanda-Jade Wellington, Jemma Barsby, Megan Schutt, Darcie BrownLast season’s overseas/retention options: Laura Wolvaardt, Deandra Dottin, Stafanie TaylorDraft picks: 8, 16, 17, and 32What might they want?Strikers have three retention picks in Laura Wolvaardt, Deandra Dottin and Stafanie Taylor, who returns to the WBBL after missing the last two editions. They may not need to use the retention as a lot of other drama will unfold before their first pick and those three players may not be high on the list of priorities for the other seven teams. Strikers’ title-winning attack is very settled and they already have an allrounder in their captain McGrath. Wolvaardt looms as their most likely target given her consistency at the top of the order for Strikers. Allrounders are in high demand so whether Dottin and Taylor would still be available by pick 16 if Strikers took Wolvaardt first remains to be seen. Strikers also need a wicketkeeper after Tegan McPharlin’s retirement last year. There are precious few options in the draft but India’s Richa Ghosh will be in demand and her power-hitting certainly fits in with Strikers’ batting blueprint.

Brisbane Heat

Current list: Nicola Hancock, Grace Harris, Laura Harris, Mikayla Hinkley, Ellie Johnston, Jess Jonassen, Charli Knott, Grace Parsons, Georgia Redmayne, Courtney Sippel, Georgia VollLast playing XI Georgia Redmayne (wk), Danni Wyatt, Grace Harris, Amelia Kerr, Georgia Voll, Laura Harris, Jess Jonassen (capt), Charli Knott, Nicola Hancock, Courtney Sippel, Jess KerrLast season’s overseas/retention options: Amelia Kerr, Danni Wyatt, Jess Kerr, Pooja Vastrakar, Nadine de KlerkDraft picks: 6, 14, 19, and 30What might they want?
Skipper Jess Jonassen has already declared that New Zealand star Amelia Kerr is the No.1 priority as a retention pick and Heat may need to use it given their first choice is not until pick 6, with plenty of teams above them in the market for a legspinning allrounder. Thereafter, Heat will be at the mercy of the market given their next pick will pick 14. They will likely need another top order batter given they have an established and powerful middle order already and there should be plenty still available including Danni Wyatt who made two half-centuries for Heat last season. Heat may also look to add another fast bowler and India’s Shikha Pandey might be an experienced and familiar option given she has spent some time training in Brisbane this winter.2:16

Jonassen: Brisbane Heat will want to retain Amelia Kerr in WBBL draft

Hobart Hurricanes

Current list: Nicola Carey, Maisy Gibson, Heather Graham, Ruth Johnston, Hayley Silver-Holmes, Amy Smith, Molly Strano, Rachel Trenaman, Elyse VillaniLast playing XI Lizelle Lee (wk), Elyse Villani (capt), Mignon du Preez, Heather Graham, Nicola Carey, Ruth Johnston, Rachel Trenaman, Hayley Jensen, Maisy Gibson, Amy Smith, Molly StranoLast season’s overseas/retention options: Lizelle Lee, Mignon du Preez, Hayley Jensen, Issy WongDraft picks: 5, 13, 20, 29What might they want?
Hurricanes are in an interesting position with two of their overseas players from last year in Lizelle Lee and Mignon du Preez both bypassing the draft and opting for the WBBL’s unique direct nomination path, where they can be signed by a club of their choice post-draft for a reduced salary. But Hurricanes have to take two overseas players in the draft and can only play three in the team meaning one of those two will likely not play for them. However, as far as priorities go, Hurricanes need a strike bowler and they are in luck with Issy Wong being available as a retention pick. Even though she didn’t play last season she was initially contracted and thus qualifies. That looms as a likely option unless a world-class allrounder somehow slips to No. 5 although Hurricanes do already have Nicola Carey and Heather Graham. If they take Wong, their second target could well be another top-order batter given Lee and du Preez were both key planks in the top three and neither are available in the draft.

Melbourne Renegades

Current list: Sarah Coyte, Jess Duffin, Ellie Falconer, Ella Hayward, Sophie Molineux, Tayla Vlaeminck, Georgia WarehamLast playing XI Hayley Matthews (capt), Chamari Athapaththu, Josie Dooley, Courtney Webb, Erica Kershaw, Carly Leeson, Georgia Prestwidge, Sarah Coyte, Rhiann O’Donnell, Ella Hayward, Shabnim IsmailLast season’s overseas/retention options: Hayley Matthews, Chamari Athapaththu, Shabhim Ismail, Harmanpreet Kaur, Eve JonesDraft picks: 2, 10, 23, and 26What might they want?
Renegades have some interesting choices to make. They can retain Harmanpreet Kaur even though she didn’t play last year. She was outstanding the previous season winning player of the tournament. She brings batting prowess and excellent part-time spin as well as important leadership for a young group. She seems a logical pick at No. 2. But they need another top order batting allrounder and potentially a pace bowler. There should be options available at pick 10 given the way the picks are set to fall. The question will be what the greater priority is given what will be available. Jess Duffin’s return to the squad adds batting depth meaning they could target a pace bowler. But Sophie Molineux’s fitness coming back from a knee injury remains an unknown so another spin-bowling batter might be an option, and there should be a few available.Will Renegades retain Harmanpreet Kaur who missed last season with injury?•Mark Brake/Getty Images

Melbourne Stars

Current list: Sophie Day, Tess Flintoff, Kim Garth, Meg Lanning, Sasha Moloney, Rhys McKenna, Sophie Reid, Annabel SutherlandLast playing XI Lauren Winfield-Hill, Sophie Reid, Alice Capsey, Annabel Sutherland, Bess Heath, Kim Garth, Nicole Faltum (wk), Sasha Moloney, Olivia Henry, Rhys McKenna, Sophie DayLast season’s overseas/retention options: Alice Capsey, Lauren Winfield-Hill, Jemimah Rodrigues, Bess HeathDraft picks: 4, 12, 21, and 28What might they want?
Stars need the best player they can possibly get and are in a very good position at pick 4 given what might unfold infront of them with Thunder, Renegades and Scorchers holding the first three picks. If Thunder opt for Marizanne Kapp and Scorchers opt to retain Sophie Devine instead, and Renegades take Harmanpreet Kaur then players such as Heather Knight, Chloe Tryon, Hayley Matthews, Shabnim Ismail and Chamari Athapaththu are all up for grabs among a host of others who aren’t retention options. If Meg Lanning is fit to play a full season, which is looking likely, then Ismail would be a great option to round out Stars’ attack. If Lanning is unavailable, Knight’s experience would be invaluable. Even if they committed to Ismail and missed out on Knight, there is still likely to be some excellent batters and allrounders available at pick 12 in the second round which would also add value to Stars’ side.ESPNcricinfo Ltd

Perth Scorchers

Current list: Charis Bekker, Mathilda Carmichael, Peipa Cleary, Maddy Darke, Amy Edgar, Alana King, Lilly Mills, Beth Mooney, Taneale Pechel, Chloe Piparo, Georgia WyllieLast playing XI Sophie Devine (capt), Beth Mooney (wk), Maddy Green, Marizanne Kapp, Chloe Pipara, Amy Edgar, Mathilda Carmichael, Alana King, Piepa Cleary, Lilly Mills, Holly FerlingLast season’s overseas/retention options: Marizanne Kapp, Sophie Devine, Maddy GreenDraft picks: 3, 11, 22, and 27What might they want?
Scorchers are the team most disadvantaged by the move to an overseas draft in the WBBL as they will have to choose between Kapp and Devine as to which allrounder to retain. The decision will shape the whole draft. Either way they go, they will lose a high-quality pace bowling allrounder who bats in the top four and will need to replace her with their second pick at 11. Depending on how the first 10 picks shape someone like Dottin could be available. They could also opt for a batter and back their local bowlers. Athapaththu has played for Scorchers previously and might also be available if Thunder or Renegades don’t take her with their second picks. There is also a scenario where Knight and Taylor are still available at that pick.

Sydney Sixers

Current list: Jade Allen, Maitlan Brown, Erin Burns, Lauren Cheatle, Ashleigh Gardner, Emma Hughes, Ellyse PerryLast playing XI Suzie Bates, Alyssa Healy (wk), Ellyse Perry, Ashleigh Gardner, Erin Burns, Nicole Bolton, Sophie Ecclestone, Maitlin Brown, Kate Peterson, Angelina Genford, Lauren CheatleLast season’s overseas: Sophie Ecclestone, Suzie BatesDraft picks: 7, 15, 18, and 31What might they want?
Sixers were certain to take Sophie Ecclestone as a retention pick before her shoulder injury. They now have a clean slate with Suzie Bates unavailable for the draft although she may still play for the Sixers as a directly contracted player post draft. That means the Sixers need to find the best players they can with pick 7 and 15. They definitely need a spinner and England legspinner Sarah Glenn could be an excellent option coming off a very good Hundred tournament. Offspinner Deepti Sharma could also be available as a direct replacement for Nicole Bolton who has retired but the Sixers would prefer a legspinner or left-arm orthodox to complement Gardner and Burns. Sune Luus is not a platinum pick but could be a more than handy pick up later in the draft. Another option is to find a seam-bowling allrounder to deepen the batting and Nadine de Klerk is another non-platinum player who could be a good fit after an excellent English summer for Oval Invincibles and Blaze.

Sydney Thunder

Current list: Hannah Darlington, Sammy-Jo Johnson, Anika Learoyd, Phoebe Litchfield, Olivia Porter, Lauren SmithLast playing XI Tammy Beaumont, Phoebe Litchfield, Amy Jones (wk), Rachael Haynes (capt), Chloe Tryon, Olivia Porter, Sammy-Jo Johnson, Hannah Darlington, Lauren Smith, Belinda Vakarewa, Samantha BatesLast season’s overseas/retention options: Amy Jones, Tammy Beaumont, Chloe Tryon, Lea Tahuhu, Heather KnightDraft picks: 1, 9, 24, and 25What might they want?
Scorchers will shape the draft with their retention pick but Thunder are the ones who can set it in motion. They have a lot of great players available and they definitely need high quality players and experience, particularly batters. They can prise one of Kapp or Devine from Perth with that No. 1 pick. Most around the league believe Kapp would be first-choice for any club. But if Scorchers retain Kapp then Thunder have a decision to make. Do they take Devine or do they look elsewhere? They also have pick No.9 which is likely to be a very good player and there is a chance Knight, a former Thunder player, might be available then too. Tammy Beaumont has nominated for a direct route outside the draft and may get to Thunder again so they may look to add another bowler if they can. If Ismail slips through then she might be another they would like to have back after her starring role in their last title in 2020. Amy Jones has also bypassed the draft to be directly contracted by a club and was Thunder’s keeper last season. Thunder will need another keeper if they opt to sign Beaumont.

Challenge for batters, hosts’ troubles with both bat and ball, and other numbers ahead of Boxing Day Test

Sampath Bandarupalli24-Dec-2021South Africa’s fortress
Over the next few weeks, India will attempt to do what they have never done before – win a Test series in South Africa, the only country where they are yet to win one. South Africa’s recent home record is not convincing though: they have lost five of their last eight home Tests, played across three series in which they have lost two. However, India’s quest for their maiden Test series win in South Africa starts on Boxing Day in Centurion, which has been like a fortress for the hosts.The venue has hosted 26 Tests, of which South Africa have won 21. They have lost only two, one of which was against England in 2000, when both teams forfeited an innings each and contrived to produce a result. India have lost both Test matches played at SuperSport Park – in 2010 and 2018. Among all instances of teams playing ten or more Tests at a ground, South Africa’s win-loss ratio of 10.5 in Centurion is second only to Pakistan’s 11.5 at the National Stadium in Karachi.ESPNcricinfo LtdPakistan have won 23 out of the 43 Tests played in Karachi, and lost only two. However, in terms of win percentage, South Africa’s 80.77% in Centurion is by far the best for any team in Test cricket at a venue.Challenge for the batters
South Africa, by far, is the toughest country for batting in Test cricket. Since the start of 2018, the batting average in South Africa is the second-lowest at 25.39, next only to the West Indies with 23.53. There have been only 15 centuries in the 18 Tests that South Africa has hosted since 2018, at 0.83 hundreds per Test, the lowest ratio for any host country.