Category Uncategorized

Celtic’s generally positive results in pre-season continue.

On Wednesday night, Brendan Rodgers’ side beat Primeira Liga champions Sporting CP 2-0 at Estádio Algarve, with Reo Hatate breaking the deadlock from the penalty spot, before substitute Luke McCowan came off the bench to secure victory.

That makes it three wins out of four in pre-season, after the Hoops enjoyed victories over both Queen’s Park and then Cork City, the sole blot on their copybook so far a 3-2 defeat to Estrela da Amadora last weekend, albeit that was played behind-closed-doors.

Now, ahead of Saturday’s meeting with Newcastle United at Parkhead, the 10,000 Geordies who are making the 139-mile journey north to Glasgow will ensure there is a great atmosphere at that one, but will Celtic have made an exciting new signing by then?

Celtic seeking to add attacking talent

Following the aforementioned mid-week victory over Sporting, Rodgers confirmed that adding attacking reinforcements to his squad is the priority in this window, stating “we’ve lost a lot of goals, so we need to replace that”.

This comes after Nicolas Kühn joined Como for a reported fee of £16.5m earlier this month, while the Celts are also still searching for a Kyōgo Furuhashi replacement, after he was sold in January.

While the Hoops have already snapped up Swedish talent, Benjamin Nygren, they are now set to complete the signing of striker Shin Yamada for £1.2m, as noted by Graeme Young of the Daily Record,

The 25-year-old, who helped Japan win the EAFF E-1 Football Championship earlier this week, said goodbye to supporters of his current club Kawasaki Frontale, with the Sky Blue and Black confirming he will now finalise a move to a ‘foreign club’.

Transfer Focus

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

So, will he prove to be Celtic’s next Japanese sensation?

How Shin Yamada will improve Celtic

Upon his arrival, following the prior capture of Nygren, Yamada will become the ninth Japanese player in Celtic’s history.

Celtic’s Japanese players
Players	Celtic career	Celtic appearances
Shunsuke Nakamura	2005-09	159
Kōki Mizuno	2008-09	12
Tomoki Iwata	2022-24	42
Yūki Kobayashi	2023	7
Yosuke Ideguchi	2022	6
Kyōgo Furuhashi	2021-2025	165
Reo Hatate	2022-present	142
Daizen Maeda	2022-present	158
All information courtesy of Transfermarkt

As the table outlines, he will be following in the footsteps of a few modern-day Celtic greats, linking up with new teammates Hatate and Daizen Maeda.

Yamada began his senior football career at college side Toin University of Yokohama, before moving to J League side Kawasaki Frontale three years ago, bagging 32 goals in 121 appearances for the club, most notably helping them reach a first-ever AFC Champions League Final back in April.

Data scientist Ryo Nakagawara labels Yamada a “fantastic” talent, as well as describing him as a ‘natural finisher’, praising his ‘excellent movement’ and ‘quick acceleration’, assertions that are supported by his statistics in the J League last season.

Shin Yamada 2024 J League statistics
Statistics	Yamada	J League rank
Goals	19	3rd
Goals per 90	0.85	1st
Goals + assists per 90	0.98	1st
Shots	80	12th
Shots on target	37	5th
Shots on target %	46.3%	10th
Big chances missed	14	8th
Statistics courtesy of FBref.com and SofaScore

As outlined, Yamada was prolific in the J League last season, made all the more impressive by the fact that his team finished eighth, closer to relegation than champions Vissel Kōbe.

Meantime, according to Global Football Rankings, the J League is the 23rd strongest division in the world, a whopping 20 places above the Scottish Premiership.

Now though, the question remains, will he be a better starting centre-forward option than the current occupant of this position, Adam Idah?

The Republic of Ireland international’s performance against Sporting on Wednesday night was widely criticised, with Rodgers himself stating that the striker “needs to come alive”, calling for him to “have authority in the box”, intimating he is open to an alternative solution.

Shin Yamada vs Adam Idah comparison
Statistics	Yamada 2024	Idah 24/25
Minutes	2,012	2,168
Goals	19	16
Assists	3	0
Shots	80	88
Shots on target %	46.3%	48.9%
Big chances missed	14	19
Big chances created	6	6
Average Sofascore rating	7.06	6.93
Statistics courtesy of FBref.com and SofaScore

As the table outlines, during the timeframes included, Yamada comes out on top for the majority of metrics.

The Japanese striker scored more goals, registered more assists and missed fewer big chances than the Irishman, while doing so for a side who are exponentially less dominant relative to their competition.

Thus, if Idah continues to flatter to deceive, all available evidence suggests the incoming Yamada deserves the opportunity to stake a claim for the starting nine number spot.

Celtic open talks to sign "outstanding" £15m striker, he's open to the move

The Hoops have approached the agents of a centre-forward.

By
Dominic Lund

Jul 16, 2025

أثنى لاعب نادي برشلونة السابق على قدرات لامين يامال، نجم الفريق الحالي، موضحًا أن الأخير يستحق الفوز بالكرة الذهبية عن العام الحالي.

يامال صعد للفريق الأول بنادي برشلونة خلال موسم 2024، حيث ظهرت موهبته بشكل واضح على الرغم من خروج البلوجرانا دون تحقيق أي لقب.

ثم انفجر يامال بشكل كبير خلال الموسم الماضي مع برشلونة وتحت قيادة المدير الفني هانز فليك، حيث ساهم في فوز البلوجرانا بثلاثية الدوري الإسباني وكأس السوبر الإسباني وكأس ملك إسبانيا.

أقرأ أيضًا .. لامين يامال يثير القلق في برشلونة قبل مباراة فالنسيا بـ الدوري الإسباني

وفي حوار مع صحيفة ماركا، يرى بابلو توري، لاعب نادي ريال مايوركا الحالي وبرشلونة السابق، أن يامال يمتلك موهبة استثنائية.

وقال توري: ”إنه لاعب خارق في الثامنة عشرة من عمره الآن، لكن كل ما فعله في السابعة عشرة وحتى في السادسة عشرة يظهر موهبة مذهلة، لا داعي لقول أكثر من ذلك”.

وأتم توري في حديثه عن يامال: “فنيًا، هو لاعب مذهل، لكنه الآن، حتى جسديًا أصبح وحشًا، ويبذل جهدًا طوال الوقت ويكرر ما يفعله ويضغط بشدة، ويقضي على الفريق المنافس ويستمتع، إنه لاعب مذهل وهو يستحق الكرة الذهبية هذا العام”.

It is clear that Manchester United have identified the top end of the pitch as the area of the team that needs improving during the summer transfer window.

The Red Devils have already completed the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers for £62.5m, and there are set to be further attacking reinforcements to arrive at Old Trafford.

Man Utd's attempts to bolster their attack

The Brazil international is a strong start to the window for Ruben Amorim, because he produced 15 goals and six assists in the Premier League for the Old Gold in the 2024/25 campaign.

Cunha is a proven performer in the top-flight, as evidenced by his goal contributions over the past nine months, and the former Atletico Madrid star is set to compete for one of the number ten spots behind the striker.

After signing the Brazilian star, Manchester United are also in the market to bring a new number nine to Old Trafford, with Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic reportedly one of the players on their radar.

The Red Devils have also reportedly made an approach to sign Eintracht Frankfurt number nine Hugo Ekitike to bolster their options up front, after the French youngster international plundered 22 goals and 12 assists for the German side in the 2024/25 campaign.

As well as a new striker, Amorim is also in the market to add another number ten option alongside Cunha, with a Premier League star in his crosshairs.

Man Utd have verbal agreement with Premier League star

According to Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg, Manchester United have a “verbal agreement” in place with Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo.

The reporter claims that the Premier League giants are already in talks with the Bees over a deal to sign the Cameroon international, and that he has given his blessing for the clubs to discuss a move.

Plettenberg adds that the Red Devils, who will not be competing in any European competition next season, remain “optimistic” that a deal will go through during the summer transfer window.

The journalist states, however, that Tottenham Hotspur have joined the race to sign the left-footed star, because they have appointed the attacker’s former manager, Thomas Frank.

Spurs are hoping that their new head coach will be able to convince the 25-year-old whiz to make the move to North London to reunite with him, but Manchester United remain optimistic in spite of the fresh competition for his signature.

24/25 Premier League	Matheus Cunha	Bryan Mbeumo
Appearances	33	38
xG	8.63	12.26
Goals	15	20
Big chances created	13	17
Assists	6	7
Dribbles completed per game	1.8	1.3
Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, Amorim would have two Premier League-proven attackers to deploy as the two number tens behind his new striker in the top-flight next season if the club sign the Brentford star alongside Cunha.

Mbeumo, who was once hailed as “unplayable” by Frank, created a whopping 17 ‘big chances’ in the Premier League during the 2024/25 campaign, which suggests that he would be the perfect signing for any new number nine, as he can consistently put opportunities on a plate for them.

After Cunha: Man Utd join race for "red-hot" £47m Bryan Mbeumo clone

Man United need new forwards to improve Ruben Amorim’s team.

By
Angus Sinclair

Jun 14, 2025

It is now down to the club to ensure that they do not lose to Spurs in the race to sign the Brentford star in the coming weeks, as he could be a terrific addition to their attacking arsenal.

They were originally booked at a hotel 90 minutes from the cricket ground in New York

ESPNcricinfo staff06-Jun-2024Pakistan have made a change to their accommodation in New York, switching to a hotel closer to the cricket ground in Nassau County, where they will play two T20 World Cup group games on June 9 and June 11.Pakistan were originally booked to stay at a hotel about an hour and a half away from the venue. ESPNcricinfo understands the PCB took exception to the arrangement and arranged for the team to move to a hotel in Long Island, about a ten-minute drive from Nassau County International Cricket Stadium.Pakistan arrive in New York from Dallas on June 7 and play India at the venue two days later. The Indian team has been accommodated at a hotel about ten minutes from the ground, and have been in New York for more than a week, having played their warm-up match against Bangladesh and their first group game against Ireland at the venue.Generally at World Cups, hotel bookings are handled by the ICC working with the Local Organising Committee (LOC), a body that includes the host board. It is rare for teams to change hotels but given Sri Lanka’s experience during their stay in New York, arrangements have come under scrutiny.Sri Lanka were staying in Brooklyn ahead of their game against South Africa, 90 minutes from the ground. The logistical complications resulted in them cancelling their training session on the eve of the game to prevent fatigue. Ahead of their morning match, Sri Lanka were forced to start their day at 7am and ultimately succumbed to a heavy defeat against South Africa. Bowler Maheesh Theekshana called the scheduling and logistics “unfair” and Sri Lanka’s manager Mahinda Halangoda told ESPNcricinfo they had lodged an official complaint about their travel arrangements in this tournament.The PCB decided not to wait and raised concerns about their hotel being too far from the ground, insisting on a change in accommodation. The ICC eventually acquiesced to the request. Pakistan play India on Sunday 9 June, and Canada two days later in New York.

Everton have been put through the wringer over the past several years, but the return of David Moyes in January has turned the club back in the right direction.

The Friedkin Group have a daunting task ahead, with so many players out of contract at the end of the month. But it’s also a golden opportunity to redesign the Toffees squad as they step into a new home at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

New CEO Angus Kinnear, who left Leeds United to replace Kevin Thelwell in May, has got his work cut out, but Everton are willing to entrust their senior figures with the big decisions, and understandably so, given Moyes has identified an exciting new option to strengthen the frontline.

Everton make their first move

According to Turkish outlet A Spor, Galatasaray’s Baris Alper Yilmaz has been approached by Everton as they look to add depth and dynamism to Moyes’ squad.

Yilmaz can play across both attacking flanks and thus would fit the bill as to what the manager hopes to add. It’s understood that the Merseysiders will soon present an opening £16m offer, but that the Istanbul club are holding out for a figure closer to £29m.

With Jack Harrison and Jesper Lindstrom both returning to their parent clubs after difficult loan spells at Goodison Park, this could be a shrewd signing indeed for the Blues.

What Yilmaz would bring to Everton

Everton’s Premier League pedigree has at times felt threatened by the turbulence at the club over recent seasons, by the dysfunction that has led to palpable fears of relegation.

Moyes, though, transformed the club when arriving in January, after 12 years away. Everton finished comfortably in 13th place, and if they can get things right during the off-season, bringing in players such as Yilmaz, they could be headed for a new level of success.

Yilmaz, a silky and talented winger, would certainly ease the burden on Iliman Ndiaye’s shoulders, the Senegalese star hailed by pundit Jamie Redknapp for his “dynamite” qualities after joining from Marseille for £15m last summer.

He could even prove an upgrade on Dwight McNeil, taking his place in the starting line-up as Charly Alcaraz makes the number ten spot his own, especially after notching 20 goal contributions from 48 matches for Gala last season.

That came after a EURO 2024 showdown with the Netherlands, which led Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk to declare his adversary “difficult for every defender”.

The Turk’s constant running and unrelenting intensity suggest he’d be a fantastic addition to the Premier League, potentially even capable of keeping McNeil on the bench.

Everton’s industrious playmaker started the 2023/24 season off with aplomb, but a knee injury ruled him out for the entirety of the midseason. Still, the one-time Burnley talent finished the year with four goals and eight assists from 21 top-flight fixtures, 15 starts.

Matches (starts)

32 (29)

21 (15)

Goals

12

4

Assists

3

8

Touches*

46.9

39.4

Shots (on target)*

2.4 (0.9)

1.2 (0.5)

Pass completion

75%

83%

Big chances created

8

12

Key passes*

1.4

1.8

Dribbles*

1.4

1.1

Ball recoveries*

3.0

3.6

Tackles + interceptions*

1.7

0.9

Duels won*

6.3

2.8

Though McNeil is evidently the more naturally creative player, Everton could add a new dimension to their attacking efforts by bringing Yilmaz in.

Everton, let’s not forget, finished 13th in the chance creation standings last season (63 big chances created) but only scored 42 goals, fewer than all but the three relegated outfits.

Ultimately, it would serve Moyes well to have both players in the team next season, but Yilmaz’s pace and directness offer shades of Ndiaye, and we’ve seen how well he took to life in the Premier League when signing for Everton.

Everton ready to trigger £30m release clause for "exciting" DCL replacement

The Toffees could land their Liam Delap alternative.

2 ByTom Cunningham Jun 8, 2025

Celtic have made a habit of bringing back former players in recent times and could now be set to repeat the trick in surprise fashion, according to a report.

Celtic look to kickstart summer transfer business

Brendan Rodgers has enjoyed another supremely successful season at Parkhead and stands only one game off completing a domestic treble, coming against Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup final.

The Bhoys have already won the Premier Sports Cup and Scottish Premiership title, setting the scene for a summer that could see some exciting arrivals at Parkhead.

Club icon Kieran Tierney will return to Celtic on a free transfer once his Arsenal contract expires next month, completing a whirlwind comeback after leaving for the Gunners back in 2019.

With Jota set to miss up to nine months of action, the Bhoys could also look to bring in Stoke City winger Million Manhoef. However, the Dutch star may cost around £10 million to prize away from the bet365 Stadium.

Scottish talent Lennon Miller is also on Celtic’s radar and is set for a summer of speculation following a fine couple of years at Motherwell, even if the Scottish Premiership champions are likely to be one of a number of clubs interested in his services.

Related Celtic could sign a perfect £7m Jota replacement this summer

Celtic may be in the market for a new winger after they lost Jota to a long-term injury.

Posts ByDan Emery May 5, 2025

In a global marketplace, homegrown signings are important for the Bhoys to ensure they can meet squad quotas for European competitions.

Ultimately, Scottish players have always formed a strong part of Celtic’s backbone and club culture. Callum McGregor and James Forrest are shining examples, though they are rare examples from the academy set-up in recent years.

Now, the Hoops could be set to turn to one of their former youth graduates in a surprise move, per recent developments.

Celtic eye surprise move for Aberdeen goalkeeper Ross Doohan

According to The Herald, Celtic are lining up a surprise move for Aberdeen goalkeeper Ross Doohan, who spent seven years coming through the ranks at Lennoxtown before signing for Tranmere Rovers in 2022. Since then, the 27-year-old has featured for Forest Green Rovers before pitching up at Pittodrie, where he has filled in at times for Dimitar Mitov this campaign.

Ross Doohan’s season at Aberdeen – all competitions

Appearances

18

Goals conceded

27

Clean sheets

5

Labelled “brilliant” by Aberdeen captain Graeme Shinnie, his final match with the Dons could come against Celtic in the Scottish Cup final before a move if the scenario were to materialise. Third-choice Hoops stopper Scott Bain could leave with only a year on his deal left, opening up a slot for Doohan to make his way back to Glasgow as he features on a list of potential alternatives.

Celtic are required to have four club-trained players and the former Scotland Under-21 fits the bill, making it easier for Rodgers to piece together his final 25-man squad for whatever European league phase his side end up in.

Admittedly, Doohan wouldn’t be a signing that would attract much fanfare, but his arrival could be beneficial in light of quota requirements.

Arsenal have been contacted by the representatives of a wantaway Chelsea player, and it is believed he could well be tempted by a north London switch.

Andrea Berta targets new Arsenal forward for Mikel Arteta

The anticipation of new sporting director Andrea Berta’s first summer window at Arsenal is growing and growing.

Rafael van der Vaart makes scathing Arsenal claim amid loss to PSG

The former Spurs midfielder has made a damning comparison.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 30, 2025

The 53-year-old orchestrated a plethora of high-profile deals during his productive 12-year stint at Atlético Madrid, and he’s now transferring that expertise to the Emirates Stadium in a major boost for Mikel Arteta.

Reports in both England and France claim Berta recently reached out to Athletic Bilbao starlet Nico Williams’ agents for talks, so it is clear the Italian is aiming to make a head start on the first summer window, which opens from June 1st to June 10th.

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

Southampton (away)

May 25th

Berta is rumoured to be prioritising the potential signing of a new winger and striker, as well as a new left-back, midfielder and second-choice keeper (GiveMeSport), so we can fully expect some fresh faces to arrive in attack before the beginning of 2025/2026.

Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard face uncertain long-term futures, according to some reports, while injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz have left Arteta desperately short in the centre-forward area.

One player who could actually fill all of their roles, given his versatility, is £195,000-per-week Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku.

The Frenchman has bagged 14 goals in all competitions this term, despite being used more as an impact substitute under Enzo Maresca, and he can play as a second striker, centre-forward, left-winger and even an attacking midfielder when required.

Christopher Nkunku could be tempted to join Arsenal after talks

He appears to be on the way out of Stamford Bridge this summer as well, with Nkunku’s representatives holding some talks with Arsenal and other Premier League sides.

That is according to journalist Graeme Bailey, who also told The Boot Room that his desire to stay in London could mean that Nkunku may well be tempted by the prospect of a switch to Arsenal.

“His people are touching base with clubs in England,” said Bailey.

“Arsenal, Liverpool, Man United, Newcastle, Aston Villa and Tottenham have all been spoken to in the past few months. Chelsea want to recoup as much of their plus £50m outlay, but that looks difficult at this juncture.

“I am told the player is very happy in London, and so would a move to a Arsenal or Tottenham appeal? I believe it would but as it stands those options are not advanced – but Arsenal and Spurs both have an historic interest in the player. Both want a wide forward, so you could see the fit.

“There is interest back in Germany – Bayern Munich like him, a new deal for Leroy Sane doesn’t rule out them making a move but it is not pressing. Former club RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen also admire him. Atletico Madrid have also shown some interest, as have the Saudi Pro League – who are willing to offer him a pay rise to move.”

The former RB Leipzig sensation was unrivalled during his time in the Bundesliga, and has displayed real quality when given the chance at Chelsea. Nkunku is also a player who could reinforce multiple attacking positions for Arteta, so this could well appeal to the Spaniard, who is known to greatly value versatility.

England stand-in preparing to “do things my way” while still following Ben Stokes’ lead

Vithushan Ehantharajah20-Aug-2024The blazer Ollie Pope will don for Wednesday’s toss at Emirates Old Trafford ahead of the first Test against Sri Lanka was tailored when he became England vice-captain at the start of the 2023 summer.Since then, it has been travelling around with team manager Wayne Bentley, who measured it up initially. This week, it will finally come into Pope’s sartorial rotation. “Luckily it fits,” England’s 82nd men’s Test captain beamed. “I’ve not put on too much weight.”Like Stokes, Pope opted against a photoshoot in his new garms. Stokes has always been reticent to pose in it believing it gives off the impression of being above your players. Pope’s reasons, while similarly aligned, are as much to do with just getting on with the job at hand – regardless of how grand a job it may be.Related

• Pope vows to lean on Stokes as he begins stand-in captaincy reign

• Dhananjaya: Sri Lanka wanted extra warm-up but were denied

• What does Bazball without Ben Stokes look like? We're about to find out

• Jayasuriya: 'Karunaratne is a strong-minded player. He can do something major on this tour'

• Lawrence accepts his top billing even as middle-order wait goes on

A country that has had six prime ministers in the last decade is about to see only its fourth Test captain in that time. But while Pope’s occupation of the role will be Liz Truss in length, he will seek to maintain a much healthier status quo.Nevertheless, it is a peculiar situation. When Stokes had his first taste of captaincy during the first Test of the 2020 Covid summer, Joe Root, absent for the birth of his second child, left a note on his peg saying “Do it your way”. This time, the “absentee” captain will be present throughout, on hand to advise on how best to do it the way it still be done.Stokes was in Monday morning’s huddle, stood opposite his stand-in as Pope addressed the group on the outfield ahead of training. As openly as this has all been handled, and as unavoidable as this situation is, it is hard not to shake the sense Pope is housesitting while the landlord takes on a peeping brief.”We’ve already spoken about this and he’s pretty clear that he wants me to go out and do my thing, my own way,” Pope said when asked if there was a danger of backseat captaincy from Stokes. Barring a high-profile entry to the ground on Monday dressed like an extra from Top Gun, Stokes will strive to be a peripheral figure so Pope can fashion his own path, even if it does need to lead to a previously agreed-upon destination.Ollie Pope, England’s stand-in captain, heads out to bat in the nets•Getty ImagesThis, really, is the start of Pope’s journey as a leader. By his own recollection, he was never talked up as captaincy material during his rise through the systems of Cranleigh School, Surrey and England age-groups. Even the FEC (Future England Captain) tag often pinned on of his ilk was only bestowed upon him as an 18-year-old by a county team-mate. “I think Scott Borthwick was the first one to say it to me,” he recalled in his first captain’s press conference on Tuesday. “And I just shook it off.””It’s funny he’s remembered that,” Borthwick told ESPNcricinfo. The Durham captain’s stint at Surrey between 2016 and 2020 spanned the emergence and establishment of Pope. But what, exactly, during this period prompted Borthwick to dub Pope an “FEC” when more familiar observers had not?”The coach at the time, Michael Di Venuto, at the start or the end of the day, he used to almost pick on the youngsters; he used to say ‘give me your analysis of the day?’ or ‘what do you think the plans are’.”He used to pick on Popey quite a bit because I think he knew Popey’s knowledge of the game was really good for a young kid. He was encouraging him to speak in front of the group and to pass on his information. Diva could sense there was a leader in there.”And we had some big personalities in the side as well. It’s not easy as a young kid to give your opinion, and he did it with such assurance and maturity. His knowledge of the game was very, very good.”He spoke really well as a young kid in the dressing room. When a captain or a coach asks you for your opinion, sometimes you can second guess your opinion. Popey always had a good idea of [what had gone on in] the day. So, naturally, I would just call him ‘FEC’ and we’d joke about that.”Borthwick is bemused he was the first to label Pope as such. As it happens, Borthwick boasts a strong association with England Test captains having acted as Stokes’ best man. “The other one I called FEC was Jamie Smith,” he said. “But we can have that conversation in a few years.”

“He spoke really well as a young kid in the dressing room. When a captain or a coach asks you for your opinion, sometimes you can second guess your opinion. Popey always had a good idea of the day”Scott Borthwick on Pope as a future captain

Others at Surrey talk similarly of Pope. Even as a young upstart, he was always an independent thinker with a knack for sharp problem-solving. It is most evident in his batting, both in those formative years – specifically an exceptional 2018 summer which resulted in the first of those 46 Test caps – and his outrageous century in Hyderabad at the start of 2024. But it also comes through with his everyman qualities in the dressing room.That adaptation and feel for the game came to the fore during an eight-game stint as Surrey’s Vitality Blast captain earlier this summer, guiding them through to the knockout stages. “It’s a bit of a crash course,” said Pope of the experience.He was initially taken aback by the speed of decision-making required in the field, and was stung in his first outing against Hampshire when he had to operate with five in the ring for the final over because he had missed the cut-off time. He did not make that mistake again.”He did say it took a couple of games to get used to the pace a little bit because it is so fast-moving. But he was very relaxed,” said Smith, Pope’s Surrey and now England team-mate (and Borthwick’s other FEC).”He brought a great calmness to the group, which is never easy in T20 and especially at Surrey with the personnel you’ve got. It does feel like the game is moving at a thousand miles per hour, whether you are batting, bowling or fielding because of the quality there is.”He has great composure and I feel like he settled the side really nicely and brought along a good group that was very successful in the group stages.”Even with a caretaker brief, Pope has identified areas to influence. The performances of Mark Wood and Shoaib Bashir this summer are examples to him of the need to cultivate the right in-game environments to bring the best out of his new charges. “Since being vice [captain] I’ve watched Stokesy closely on the pitch, the way he’s managed his bowlers. That’s probably been the main thing for me, being aware that this opportunity might come about.”Going by the last two days, Pope has also seemingly handed short leg duties to moonlighting opener Dan Lawrence, who has been working on his close-catching. Like Stokes, Pope may seek to run the show from mid-off.”For me, I knew this day might come if Stokesy missed a game through injury or had something away from cricket. So, I’ve kind of prepared myself mentally for this and how I want to go about things on the pitch especially. I wouldn’t see it as a negative at all.”And yet, as Pope embarks on the job of a lifetime with such clarity, it is hard not to sympathise with him. Not only is this not “his” team, but it belongs to someone many regard as England’s greatest-ever captain – who, just like the rest of the world, will be watching on intently.Wednesday brings a unique, awkward pressure for Pope. And by the end of this series, we will find out if the blazer still fits.

Based on Smart Stats, we’ve built the XI keeping in mind the limit of four overseas players

Gaurav Sundararaman30-May-2022ESPNcricinfo LtdJos ButtlerRajasthan Royals’ most important player dominated the tournament. His runs tally was the second-highest ever in an IPL season. He scored four centuries and smashed 45 sixes. He targeted certain bowlers and played the match situation to perfection. His 863 actual runs were worth 955 Smart Runs. He had an Impact Score of over 100 in five games, with his performance in the second qualifier being the most impactful. Quinton de Kock (wicketkeeper)Among openers, de Kock had the second-highest Batting Impact Score in IPL 2022. In both the games against Kolkata Knight Riders, de Kock made his presence felt with scores of 140* and 50. With Rahul looking to play through the innings on most occasions, the pressure was on de Kock to score quickly. And he managed to do that quite well. de Kock’s unbeaten 140 against Knight Riders was the performance with the second-highest Batting Impact (156.82) in a match in the entire tournament.ESPNcricinfo Ltd Rajat Patidar Patidar came into the tournament as a replacement and played eight games and he cashed in on the opportunity making a telling impact almost every single time. He often had to come in early due to the loss of one of the openers but did not look to protect his wicket. Patidar made up for the lack of intent by his partners on more than one occasion. His knocks against Gujarat Titans and Sunrisers Hyderabad were among the most impactful, especially given the early wickets. His 112 off 54 in the Eliminator against Lucknow Super Giants was the innings with the highest Batting Impact (175.37) this year, which helped Royal Challengers go one step further than the last two.Related

How Gujarat Titans maximised their strengths and minimised their weaknesses

Hardik answers questions with one of the most influential all-round displays in an IPL final

Strengthening Royals' thin batting on Sangakkara's mind for next season

The Rashid Effect was always on show, the 'biggest achievement' just took its time coming

Suryakumar Yadav Although Mumbai Indians had a season to forget, Suryakumar was one player who stood out during his short stint. Surrounded by big-name players like Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Kieron Pollard who were out of form, Suryakumar played some high-impact knocks for the team. Although it did not result in enough wins, Smart Stats show that in six out of eight games he scored higher and faster than most of his team-mates. Liam Livingstone Having succeeded in most leagues across the world – except the IPL – Livingstone came into this season with a point to prove. He perfectly fit into a Punjab Kings side which played high-risk cricket. Livingstone had an Impact Score of over 100 in three matches while also contributing with the ball taking some crucial wickets. He finished the tournament with 34 sixes – second only to Buttler.Rajat Patidar is all smiles after hammering a hundred in the IPL 2022 Eliminator•PTI Hardik Pandya (captain)Hardik reserved his best performance for the crunch match. His best Impact Score of the tournament came in the final when he took 3 for 17 that included the wickets of Sanju Samson, Buttler and Shimron Hetmyer. He also scored 34 runs from 30 balls. Although Hardik struck at just 131.26 this time his role was very different. In a line-up that was short on big-name batting talent, he looked to bat deep rather than go big from the first ball. He made small contributions in most games throughout the tournament and finished with an economy rate of 7.27 with the ball. Andre Russell After a couple of below-par seasons, Russell delivered this time around. He was one of the only bright spots in Knight Riders’ average campaign. With the top order failing more often than not, Russell was left with a lot of work to do. He was the only player to score 200 runs and take over 10 wickets in the tournament. Similar to Buttler, Russell had five performances in which his Impact Score was over 100. He also bowled the tough overs on a few occasions. Russell’s best performance came against Sunrisers when he scored 49 off 25 balls and then took 2 for 12.Mohsin Khan finished with the best Impact Score of 58.4 in IPL 2022•BCCI Mohsin Khan The pitches throughout the tournament were mostly batting-friendly – but uncapped Indian bowler Mohsin stood out with some superb spells. He is at the top of the Impact Ratings for IPL 2022 with a score of 58.4. His tournament economy is 5.96. He took six wickets and conceded just 5.25 runs per over in the powerplay. He also backed it up with a lot of variations at the death. His standout Impact Score came against Knight Riders when he went at just 5.5 runs per over in match that saw both teams scoring in excess of 200. Mohsin’s 14 wickets were worth 20 Smart Wickets. Umesh Yadav Umesh was one of the last few names to be picked up in the auction. Knight Riders made his role clear – they were majorly going to use him in the powerplay. He finished the season with a standout economy rate – 7.06 – and was instrumental in helping Knight Riders win a few games early on in the tournament. When the pitches were fresh and offering swing and bounce, Umesh had a very good impact. His 16 wickets were valued at 23 Smart Wickets. In the powerplay, Umesh went at just 6.41 runs per over and picked up eight wickets. Smart Stats rewards bowlers who perform in tougher phases and also pick up top-order wickets. Umesh delivered on both counts. Yuzvendra Chahal Chahal was the top spinner in terms of Smart Stats. He finished the season with 27 wickets – the most for any spinner in a single IPL season. His 27 wickets were valued as 33 Smart Wickets. Amidst small boundaries and batting-friendly conditions, Chahal was also able to control the runs ever so well. His standout performance was against Knight Riders. Chasing 218, Knight Riders were cruising at 178 for 4 after 16 overs. Chahal took four wickets in an over including a hat-trick to help Royals get over the line. Khaleel Ahmed If you did not follow the IPL closely there is good chance Khaleel would have slipped under your radar. He took 16 wickets and interestingly all the wickets were off different batters. Khaleel’s impact was very high as per Smart Stats since he picked up a lot of important top-order wickets. Twelve out of the 16 wickets he took were of top four batters. His 16 wickets were valued at 20 Smart Wickets. Unfortunately, due to injury and bowling combinations, Khaleel played only 10 games.

The Red Sox have found their No. 2 starter.

On Tuesday, they acquired veteran righty Sonny Gray from the St. Louis Cardinals in exchange for lefty pitching prospect Brandon Clarke and starter Richard Fitts. It is a deal that furthers Boston’s pursuit of a deeper playoff run in 2026 by providing a reinforcement behind ace lefty Garrett Crochet.

What follows are grades for each team’s return in the deal to see who came out on the better end of things.

Red Sox Acquire: Sonny Gray

Boston had been desperate to find some rotation help behind Crochet and looked like a potential landing spot if the Tigers made Tarik Skubal available. The Red Sox went a much easier route, landing the 36-year-old Gray, who is a durable three-time All-Star in his own right.

Gray was solid but not spectacular for St. Louis in 2025. He went 14-8, with a 4.28 ERA, a 1.23 WHIP, and 201 strikeouts against 38 walks in 180 2/3 innings. His FIP was 3.39, which shows he was a bit unlucky. While it wasn’t Gray’s best season, he is only two years removed from finishing second in AL Cy Young voting when he went 8-8, with a 2.79 ERA, a 1.15 WHIP, and a league-best 2.83 FIP for the Twins in 2023.

The Red Sox are getting a stable No. 2 for their rotation. He’s a guy with a career ERA of 3.58, and has only been over 4.00 twice in the past seven seasons. Additionally, Gray and Crochet are two of the five MLB pitchers who have struck out 200 or more batters in each of the last two seasons, making them a formidable duo. Boston is pushing to take the next step and has added a good arm near the top of its rotation.

To sweeten the deal, Boston is also receiving $20 million to help cover the $35 million Gray is owed in 2026. His contract has a mutual option for $30 million in 2027, but it only carries a $5 million buyout. It’s a manageable contract, and they didn’t surrender a top prospect in exchange.

Grade: B+

Cardinals Acquire: Brandon Clarke, Richard Fitts

St. Louis is pushing to get younger after missing the playoffs for three straight seasons. Gray’s age and contract put him on the outside of the team’s plans moving forward. In exchange, they landed two intriguing arms but didn’t get any true top prospects to add to their impressive farm system.

Fitts has made 15 appearances (14 starts) over two big league seasons and has struggled to keep the ball in the yard. In 2025, he pitched in 11 games (10 starts) and went 2-4 with a 5.00 ERA, a 1.31 WHIP, and 40 strikeouts against 16 walks in 45 innings. He allowed 11 home runs in that time. The former Yankees prospect has a fastball that sits in the mid-90s but tops out around 98, and his slider continues to improve and has some sweep to it.

The prize of the deal is Brandon Clarke. The 6’4” lefty has a fastball that can touch 100, and features an outstanding slider that can sit in the upper-80s. He also features a curveball and a changeup he hasn’t thrown for strikes consistently yet. The Red Sox selected Clarke with a fifth-round pick in the 2024 draft out of junior college, and he made his pro debut in 2025. In 14 starts at two levels of A ball, he went 0-3 with a 4.03 ERA, a 1.16 WHIP, and 60 strikeouts against 27 walks in 38 innings. Opposing batters only hit 1.28 against him. If he can cut down on the walks and straighten out his changeup, Clarke could race up prospect lists.

St. Louis moved off Gray’s contract but also shipped $20 million to Boston and didn’t land a top 100 prospect in the process. They weren’t able to pry either of the Red Sox’s top two pitching prospects, as Payton Tolle and Kyson Witherspoon remain part of Boston’s system. The return isn’t disappointing thanks to Clarke’s upside, but it feels a bit flat.

Grade: B-